Shimagawa Dam (四万川ダム) is a magnificent dam completed in 1999 for flood control, river conservation, and power generation. The enchanting artificial lake is formed with its completion, and Shima Onsen’s best spot to indulge yourself in nature is born! Those who love outdoor activities can also enjoy a range of water sports there.
Shima Onsen’s Best Natural Spot: Shimagawa Dam & Lake Okushima Read More »
If you are after a hot spring town in Gunma Prefecture where you can discover amazing natural scenery, Shima Onsen should top the list. The town is proud of what they call Shima Blue, a mysterious cobalt blue color that can be seen in most parts of Shima River on a sunny day. In particular,
A Guide to Shima Potholes, Momotarō Falls, and Shima Lake Read More »
Although Shima Onsen in Gunma Prefecture isn’t known to be a spot for fancy food, it has a couple of cafes, restaurants, and street food you need to try out during your visit. Some are traditional snacks or sweets unique to the area, and others are just delicious as fresh ingredients sourced locally are used,
The Must-Try Eateries and Street Food in Shima Onsen Read More »
Great ryokans can be found across Japan, and Kashiwaya (柏屋旅館) in Gunma Prefecture‘s Shima Onsen has taken the classic formula and perfected it! Whilst the food, service, and onsen are all of extremely high quality, what makes them truly exceptional is how accommodating and flexible the ryokan is. Whether it is before or after the
Kashiwaya Ryokan – The Best Place to Stay at Shima Onsen Read More »
Sekizenkan (積善館), which has more than 300 years of history, is the most famous among all the ryokans in Gunma Prefecture‘s Shima Onsen. Not only because the main building is the oldest hot spring inn architecture in Japan, but the ryokan is also rumored to be the stage of Spirited Away, as three spots of
Sekizenkan – The Rumored Stage of the Ghibli Movie, Spirited Away Read More »
If you love adventures and visiting hidden gems, Shiriyaki Onsen (尻焼温泉) in Gunma Prefecture is a perfect spot for you. Instead of a hot spring pool, you can bathe in a natural river with hot springs flowing. You won’t be asked to bathe naked. It is optional. However, as photography is allowed there, just remember
Shiriyaki Onsen: Where You Bathe in a Natural River in Japan Read More »
The Chibishi Islands (チービシ環礁) are located between mainland Okinawa and the Kerama Islands group. It is formed by three uninhabited sand dunes. Because Chibishi Islands are so close to Naha, if you don’t have much time, it is possible to experience the charm of the Kerama Island National Park by taking a half-day trip to
Chibishi Islands, A Great Beach Holiday Spot Close to Naha Read More »
While the Michelin Green Guide Japan gave Zamami Island‘s Furuzamami Beach a two-star rating, it isn’t a beach where you want to snorkel anymore if you are experienced, as the beach now has a designated swimming area marked by lane dividers. Because the coral reefs inside this restricted area aren’t as beautiful, snorkeling at other beaches
Snorkeling Around Kerama Islands’ Hidden Uninhabited Islands Read More »
Many people visit Japan between mid-March and early April for the cherry blossom. If that is your plan, consider visiting Zuishin-in (隨心院) in Kyoto as well. The temple’s plum blossoms are late bloomers, so you can adore both cherry and plum blossoms on the same trip! In addition, Zuishin-in has splendidly painted sliding door paintings
Zuishin-in: The Splendid Plum and Sliding Door Paintings Read More »
Akashi City, west of Kobe, is best known for its magnificent view of the Akashi-Kaikyo Bridge, the Seto Inland Sea, and Awaji Island as the backdrop. But what many are not aware of is that the city also has a few plum blossom spots worth visiting from late February to mid-March. If you plan to
The Best Plum Blossom Spots in Akashi City Read More »
