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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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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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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When visiting Sendai, a must-see shrine is Osaki Hachimangu Shrine (大崎八幡宮). It is the only place in the Tohōku region that houses a National Treasure. The shrine was erected in 1607 as the guardian shrine of Sendai and carries Date Masamune’s (伊達政宗, the first lord of Sendai Domain) hope of bringing happiness to his subjects.
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Speaking of Aizu-Wakamatsu‘s tourist attractions, Tsuruga Castle has to be at the top of the list. Although the castle was largely damaged during the Boshin War (戊辰戦争), the castle keep was restored in 1965. After restoring the castle’s red roof tiles in 2011, Tsuruga Castle soon regained its glorious appearance before it was dismantled in
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Nestled in a verdant river basin at the foot of the twin-peaked Mount Yufu, the charming town of Yufuin (由布院 or 湯布院) is one of Kyushu’s most beloved hot spring retreats. Unlike the bustling geysers of neighboring Beppu, Yufuin offers a tranquil, “boutique” onsen experience characterized by misty morning views of Lake Kinrinko, and the whimsical,
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Uji City Botanical Park (宇治市植物公園) is a spot where a variety of flowers bloom throughout the year. In fact, it is a hidden gem of cherry and plum blossoms that is not far from Kyoto’s city center. In early summer, you can even visit the park at night to see many fireflies dancing! You will
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Amanohashidate (天橋立), one of the Three Views of Japan (日本三景, Nihon Sankei), is a celebrated scenic site in Japan that many Japanese have on their bucket list to visit. It is the small Japanese towns to visit in Kyoto for stunning views throughout the year. There are cherry blossoms in spring and maple leaves in
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Kyoto is most famous for its temples and shrines. But nowadays, due to over-tourism, you can hardly enjoy the traditional township in the city center fully. Fortunately, Kyoto Gyoen National Garden (京都御苑), which is a few stations away from Kyoto Station, isn’t flooded with tourists. The vast park that houses Kyoto Imperial Palace and Kyoto
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The mountains from Arashiyama to Kameoka have some of the most spectacular scenery in Kyoto. To adore the scenery that changes each season, the best seats are provided by Sagano Scenic Railway (嵯峨野観光鉄道). The company’s Sagano Romantic Train runs along the Hozu River (保津川), which flows through the scenic Hozu Gorge (保津峡). Especially during the
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