Want to appreciate the picturesque 2km gorge with cliff walls of more than 100 meters high on both riverbanks, and all you need to do is relax on a boat? Geibikei Gorge (猊鼻渓) in Iwate Prefecture is the perfect place for you! Adding to this unforgettable experience is the traditional Japanese ballad that your boatman
Geibikei Gorge and the Most Scenic Traditional Boat Ride Read More »
Renkeiji (蓮馨寺) is the temple in Kawagoe closest to Taishō Roman Yume-dōri. It is close to the street’s popular udon restaurant, Udon Tsumugi. The temple has a serene atmosphere and is rich in history. Since its establishment in the mid-16th century, the locals would go there and pray for various things, especially child-related matters, such
Renkeiji: A Temple to Pray for Child-Related Matters in Kawagoe Read More »
Ichinoseki (一関市) is the southmost city in Iwate Prefecture. Having a wealth of beautiful natural landscapes, it is the perfect destination for a weekend getaway from the big city’s hustle and bustle. If you are a foodie, Ichinoseki should also be of your interest. The city also has a unique mochi culture, meaning you will
The Top Guide to Ichinoseki’s Attractions and Mochi Cuisine Read More »
Shōeidō (松栄堂) is Ichinoseki‘s representative traditional confectionary maker, established in 1903. It is very good at creating gorgeously shaped sweets made from local ingredients, reflecting the local cultures and current seasons. Traditionally, the mochi rice cake can be found in all seasonal events in Ichinoseki. This is why the local traditional sweets makers, such as
Shōeidō: Ichinoseki’s Best Traditional Confectionery Maker Read More »
While rice cakes can easily be found across Japan, the mochi in Ichinoseki really stands out! When you visit the city, you will have your first mochi cuisine. The rice cake there isn’t just eaten as a dessert, but as a main dish too! So, if you ever visit Ichinoseki, check out the restaurants that
The Top Places to Enjoy Ichinoseki’s Mochi Culture Read More »
Genbikei Gorge (厳美渓) is one of the two most stunning nature spots in Iwate Prefecture. Like most nature spots in Japan, it offers picturesque autumn foliage views. In winter, it is a snowy wonderland! But the most eye-catching thing about Genbikei Gorge has to be the Dango rice cake that flies between the gorge’s steep cliffs!
Genbikei Gorge and the Fascinating Flying Dango Rice Cake Read More »
Apart from the noodle dishes, there is a bread shop that is also quite well-known in Morioka. Fukuda Pan (福田パン) specializes in putting various types of spreads between the hot dog bun-like bread. In addition to the typical flavors, such as peanut butter or fried noodles, uncommon flavors are also available for those who want
Fukuda Pan: Morioka’s Must-Visit Flavored Bread Shop Read More »
If you like tofu and other soy products, stop by Dengku Chaya (田楽茶屋) when you visit Morioka. The tofu maker has a branch in Morioka’s city center, opposite the famous Sakurayama Shrine (櫻山神社). It’s a great spot to enjoy a healthy lunch after exploring Morioka’s landmark, Morioka-jō Castle Site Park (盛岡城跡公園). The great news is
Dengaku Chaya: The Vegan-Friendly Tofu Restaurant in Morioka Read More »
While many are unaware of this, Shiga Prefecture, next to Kyoto, has a wealth of national treasures and cultural properties! Starting from Mt. Hiei to the temples in the Sakamoto area, Ōtsu is the city for a day tour destination with spots that are rich in history and culture. To make your visit more memorable,
Enman-in: The Temple to Enjoy Japanese Cultural Activities Read More »
One of the best attractions in Sendai that is scenic all year round is Zuihōden (瑞鳳殿), the mausoleum complex of Sendai Domain’s first lord, Date Masamune and his heirs. The temple’s precinct is filled with stunning nature, and the buildings are intricately decorated with vivid colors and various auspicious images. In fact, when Hanyu Yuzuru was asked for recommended places to visit in Sendai in
Zuihōden – Date Masamune’s Splendid Mausoleum Read More »
