Fukuchiyama (福知山), in northern Kyoto Prefecture, is a city blessed with abundant nature, hidden cherry blossoms, and fall foliage destinations. The city, known for its connection with the famous samurai – Akechi Mitsuhide, also is the best spot to admire hydrangeas in early May and also has a mountain where demons used to reside.
Fukuchiyama City and the Amazing Scenery All Year Round Read More »
If you are after a traditional garden close to Kyoto Station that is stunning throughout the year, Shōseien (渉成園) is a top choice. The garden is a renowned spot with flowers blooming in both spring and summer. Many also visit the garden in late November, when it is decorated by autumn foliage.
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If you are a history buff or love historical architecture, Tō-ji (東寺), southwest of Kyoto Station, is a must-visit spot for you. It is the only remaining structure of the Kyoto from 1200 years ago. The temple houses many Japan’s national treasures and important cultural properties. In addition, it is a spot to adore seasonal
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If you visit Tatsuno City in spring or the fall, Tatsuno Park (龍野公園) is the must-visit spot in the rural city. The beautiful cherry blossom spread from Tatsuno Castle to Tatsuno Park on the west. Following the road from the castle, you will arrive at the tea house completed in the Edo period, Shūentei (聚遠亭).
Tatsuno Park: Where You Can Enjoy Seasonal Colors and Tea Read More »
If you are a student or in the process of learning a skill, Kitano Tenmangū (北野天満宮) is the shrine you need to visit. The shrine enshrining the God of Learning is the best spot to pray for academic success. Among all the Tenmangū shrines in Japan, Kitano Tenmangū in Kyoto is especially well-known. Not only
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Maniwa City (真庭市), located in the northern part of Okayama Prefecture, is the place to be for all dairy lovers. The soft-serve ice cream and the cheese made from hundreds of Jersey cows’ milk are a must-try, especially if you plan to go to the Hiruzen Highlands! The city is also known as one of
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Hiruzen Highlands (蒜山高原) in Okayama Prefecture, also known as Hiruzen Plateau, is one of the best highland resorts in Western Japan. It is reminiscent of Karuizawa near Tokyo. While architecture might be less fashionable, it has much more capacity for you to enjoy nature. At the same time, there are still stylish boutique shops for
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Umekōji Park (梅小路公園) was opened in 1995 to commemorate the 1,200th anniversary of the founding of Kyoto as the capital in the Heian period. Another main reason for the park’s creation is to add green space in Kyoto’s city center so that locals can rest. Unlike other attractions in the city center, it isn’t crowded
Umekōji Park: The Hidden Gem in Kyoto for Seasonal Colors 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
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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
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