Okayama Prefecture, in the western part of Japan’s main island, is definitely not known for its limestone caves. However, if you drop by Niimi City (新見市), you will encounter a few of the most fascinating limestone caves you will ever see! During summer, there is a relaxing marsh for you to trek on and even […]
Niimi City and the Amazing Limestone Caves Read More »
Whether you are a Japanese or a foreigner, Okayama is undoubtedly not the prefecture that people would think of when it comes to limestone caves. This is great news for the limestone cave lovers who are reading this article because crowds of people won’t surround the fantastically lit-up caves even during the Golden Week!
Your Ultimate Guides to the Makidō and Ikuradō Caves Read More »
Have you ever wondered what the world would look like after you die? Well, we have. According to Japanese folk tales, those who die will pass a bridge to cross the Sanzunokawa River. It has been said that the river divides our world from another world. As we all need to cross that river one
Mt. Osore – Welcome to the World After Death Read More »
If you are after some hidden gems in the Chūgoku region, come to Sōja City (総社市) in Okayama Prefecture for the beautiful natural wonders that the non-locals might not be aware of. Apart from the scenic places, you will also find a castle that used to house demons. And on the other side of the
Sōja City and the Scenic Hidden Gems that Many Don’t Know Read More »
Hōfukuji Temple (井山宝福寺) is a sub-temple of the Tōfukuji Temple (東福寺) school of the Rinzai sect (臨済宗). It is also the leading Zen Buddhist temple in the region. When you explore this temple, you will find a couple of tied-up monks’ statues. However, there is no need to be afraid of or weirded out.
Hōfukuji Temple and the Interesting Monk and Mouse Statues Read More »
Gōkei (豪渓) was designated as one of Japan’s National Site of Scenery Beauty in 1923. It is a beautiful valley located upstream of the Makidani River (槙谷川), a tributary of the Takahashi River (高梁川). The valley is still considered a hidden gem as most of the tourists who come to the valley are locals. With
Gōkei Valley – One of the Most Picturesque Valley in Okayama Read More »
If you are after a unique experience in Japan, consider spending a night at Ine Bay‘s traditional house, Funaya (舟屋). This type of architecture can only be found at Ine. This is why the Funayas are nationally recognized as cultural property. A couple of the former fishermen’s houses were later renovated into ryokans. If you
Spending a Night at Ine Bay’s Funaya, WATER FRONT INN Yosasou Read More »
At Ine, approximately 230 Funayas line the Ine Bay, with most of them as private residential properties. Since the town has two main bay areas, if you want to see all of the houses in one go, consider taking either the Ine Bay Sightseeing Boat (伊根湾めぐり遊覧船) or hiring a Sea Taxi (海上タクシー). Seeing this unique
The Complete Guide to the Ine Bay Sightseeing Boat Read More »
If you are in Tokyo and want to do some home decor and tableware shopping, visit free design (フリーデザイン) in Kichijōji. It is a shop for Scandinavian-style home decor and accessories. The shop gathers products from typical Scandinavian home accessory companies, such as Arabia Finland and marimekko, and also teams up with famous artists to
free design: The Best Spot in Kichijōji to Shop Stylish Tableware Read More »
Amongst all the attractions in Amanohashidate that have lookouts and observation decks, Nariaiji (成相寺) is the one we enjoyed the most! It is the most scenic place in the area throughout the year, especially during the autumn foliage season from early to mid-November. Located further up from Kasamatsu Park, you might be able to see
Nariaiji Temple: The Scenic Hidden Gem in Amanohashidate Read More »
