NG | Vegetarian's Japan Guide

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Fujita Memorial Garden: Landscapes & Aomori’s Best Apple Pie

January 13, 2026 / Aomori Prefecture, Japanese Garden, Recommended café, Tōhoku Region

Discover the serene beauty of Fujita Memorial Garden (藤田記念庭園), the second-largest Japanese-style garden in the Tohoku region. Originally built in 1919 as the villa for local businessman Kenichi Fujita, this 21,800-square-meter landscape is a masterpiece of Taisho-era design, seamlessly blending Eastern and Western influences. The garden is divided into two distinct levels: a highland area […]

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Hiking Mt. Iwaki: Trails, Lift Access, and Summit Views

January 6, 2026 / 100 Famous Japanese Mountains, Aomori Prefecture, Trekking/Hiking in Japan

Dominating the horizon of the Tsugaru Plain, Mount Iwaki (Iwaki-san, 岩木山) is the highest peak in Aomori and a sacred symbol of Northern Japan. Affectionately nicknamed the “Mt. Fuji of Tsugaru” for its near-perfect conical silhouette, this 1,625-meter stratovolcano offers some of the most spectacular panoramic views in the Tohoku region. Whether you are looking for a

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Yufuin-no-mori to yufuin and Beppu in Kyushu

How to Ride the Yufuin no Mori: Booking, Route, and JR Pass

January 5, 2026 / Fukuoka Prefecture, Kyūshū Region, Ōita Prefecture, Transportation in Japan

Experience the ultimate in Japanese rail luxury with a journey on the Yufuin no Mori (ゆふいんの森), one of Kyushu’s most iconic and beloved sightseeing trains. This elegant, emerald-green “forest train” connects the bustling city of Fukuoka (Hakata Station, 博多駅) to the charming hot spring village of Yufuin, before heading to the famous Hells of Beppu. The

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Guide to Iwakiyama Shrine: Spiritual Gateway to Mount Iwaki

January 6, 2026 / Aomori Prefecture, Cherry Blossom, Temples & Shrines, Tōhoku Region

Step into the spiritual heart of the Tsugaru region at Iwakiyama Shrine (岩木山神社, Iwakiyama Jinja), a majestic 1,200-year-old sanctuary nestled at the foot of Aomori’s iconic “Tsugaru Fuji.” Often nicknamed “Oku-Nikko” for its ornate wood carvings and vibrant vermilion architecture, this historic power spot is a must-visit for travelers exploring the Hirosaki area. Whether you are walking the

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The Best Guide to How to Get to Hirosaki by Public Transport

January 10, 2026 / Aomori Prefecture, Tōhoku Region, Transportation in Japan

Wondering how to get to Hirosaki by public transport? Reaching Aomori’s historic castle town is surprisingly easy, whether you are coming from Tokyo, Sendai, or even Hakodate. The most popular route is via the high-speed Tohoku Shinkansen, which whisks you from Tokyo to Shin-Aomori in about 3.5 hours, followed by a quick local transfer. For

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When to Visit Hirosaki: Cherry Blossoms, Festivals & More

January 3, 2026 / Aomori Prefecture, Autumn Foliage, Cherry Blossom, Snow Scenery, Tōhoku Region

When is the best time to visit Hirosaki? While this Aomori gem is world-famous for its late-April cherry blossoms, every season offers a distinct reason to explore. From the spectacular “Sakura Carpet” at Hirosaki Castle and the summer energy of the Neputa Festival to the crisp autumn apple harvests and the magical Winter Snow Lantern

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Hirosaki Park Heart Shape Cherry Blossom Aomori Japan

Hirosaki Travel Guide: Explore Japan’s Sakura Capital

January 3, 2026 / Aomori Prefecture, Autumn Foliage, Cherry Blossom, Japan's Top 100 Cherry Blossom Spots, Tōhoku Region, Top 100 Japanese Castles

Discover the magic of Hirosaki City (弘前市), the cultural heart of Aomori Prefecture and Japan’s undisputed cherry blossom capital. Famous for the iconic Hirosaki Castle, this historic castle town offers a perfect blend of feudal history, stunning botanical gardens, and unique Western-style architecture. Whether you are visiting in spring to witness the “Sakura Carpet” on

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Kin no Yu: The Must-Try Public Bathhouse in Arima Onsen

January 3, 2026 / Hyōgo Prefecture, Kansai Region, Onsen/Hot Spring

If you plan to travel to Japan’s Kansai region and want to visit an authentic hot spring town, Arima Onsen in Kobe should be your top choice. It is Toyotomi Hideyoshi’s favorite onsen! The mineral quality of the hot spring here is excellent, as it contains seven of the nine main components listed by the

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Arima Onsen Travel Guide: Top Things to Do & See

January 3, 2026 / Autumn Foliage, Cherry Blossom, Hyōgo Prefecture, Kansai Region, Onsen/Hot Spring

Experience the timeless charm of Arima Onsen Town, Japan’s oldest and most iconic hot spring town, with a history of over 1,400 years. Tucked away in the scenic mountains of Kobe, this historic retreat is famous for its unique “Gold” and “Silver” hot springs, renowned for their healing properties for centuries. Whether you’re seeking a

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How to Get to Arima Onsen from Osaka, Kyoto, and Kobe

January 3, 2026 / Hyōgo Prefecture, Kansai Region, Transportation in Japan

Planning a trip to Japan’s oldest hot spring town? Knowing how to get to Arima Onsen is the first step toward a relaxing getaway. Nestled in the mountains behind Kobe, this historic retreat is surprisingly accessible from major hubs like Osaka and Kyoto. Whether you prefer the speed of a direct bus, the scenic views of

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