Cherry Blossom

Tsuruga Castle Cherry Blossom Festival Aizu-Wakamatsu Fukushima Japan

Tsuruga Castle: The Only Red-Roofed Castle in Japan

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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Yufuin Travel Guide: Onsen, Cafes, and Best Things to Do

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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Cherry Blossom at Uji City Botanical Park Uji Kyoto Japan

Uji City Botanical Park: The Must-Go Flower Spot in Kyoto

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: One of the Top Three Scenic Places in Japan

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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The Ultimate Guide to Kyoto Gyoen National Garden

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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Kamado Shrine Dazaifu Japan

Kamado Shrine: A Scenic Spot for Demon Slayer Pilgrimage

If you are an anime fan, Demon Slayer is probably one of your favorite anime. The spot for you to visit in Dazaifu is Kamado Shrine (宝満宮 竈門神社). Starting from the shrine’s name, it has many connections to the popular anime. The shrine is also a popular spot to pray for good relationships. Moreover, Kamado

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The Ultimate Guide to Amanohashidate Kasamatsu Park

Amanohashidate Kasamatsu Park (天橋立傘松公園) is where you discover another face of Amanohashidate. The view from there is called Shōryū-kan (昇龍観), meaning ascending dragon. Compared to Amanohashidate View Land, Kasamatsu Park is probably a better place for natural scenery. On the way to the top of the mountain, the surroundings are covered by cherry blossoms in

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Kangetsudai Daikakuji Kyoto Japan

Daikaku-ji: A Temple With a Splendid Precinct All Year Round

Kyoto has many temples and shrines, and the famous ones are usually flooded with tourists! To enjoy your time in Kyoto’s city center, cherry-picking the temples to visit is essential. Daikaku-ji (大覚寺) is a temple that we recommend stopping by, especially during the plum and cherry blossom season. The precinct is also stunning during the

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Lake Gosho Park: A Scenic Hidden Spot for a Family Day Trip

Gosho Lake (御所湖), south of Morioka Handi-Works Square, is a top spot in Morioka to adore Mt. Iwate’s magnificence. It is a huge dam lake created by damming the Shizukuishi River (雫石川). When the weather conditions are right, Mt. Iwate is reflected on the surface of the vast lake, creating a breathtaking view.

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The Ultimate Guide to What to See at Kyoto Imperial Palace

Amongst the many attractions in Kyoto, Kyoto Imperial Palace (京都御所) in the city center is definitely listed at the top of the tourist bucket list. The spot where Japanese imperial families resided from 1331 until 1869 is the best place in Japan to peek into the life of those of a high social status centuries

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