Want to appreciate the picturesque 2km gorge with cliff walls of more than 100 meters high on both riverbanks, and all you need to do is relax on a boat? Geibikei Gorge (猊鼻渓) in Iwate Prefecture is the perfect place for you! Adding to this unforgettable experience is the traditional Japanese ballad that your boatman …
Geibikei Gorge and the Most Scenic Traditional Boat Ride Read More »
Hiraizumi town (平泉町), once Kyoto‘s rival for its refined culture and elegant surroundings in the 12th century, still retains its charm and traces of former greatness. If you are after a cultural and scenery feast, it is the destination that you don’t want to miss!
Genbikei Gorge (厳美渓) is one of the two most stunning nature spots in Iwate Prefecture. Like most of the nature spots of the mountains in Japan, it comes with picturesque fall foliage views in autumn. In winter, it is a snowy wonderland! But the most eye-catching thing about Genbikei Gorge has to be the Dango …
Genbikei Gorge and the Fascinating Flying Dango Rice Cake Read More »
Anyone who has the slightest knowledge of Japan knows the mighty Mt. Fuji. But do you know which landscape closely follows? The scenery at Shōsenkyō Gorge (昇仙峡) in Yamanashi Prefecture will blow your mind off just as much as Mt. Fuji. It is a lot less packed, and you can get some of the best …
Shōsenkyō Gorge and the Scenery Second Only to Mt. Fuji Read More »
Yufuin (由布院 or 湯布院) is an onsen resort town in Ōita Prefecture in northern Kyūshū. Unlike most onsen towns in Japan, this resort, backed by the scenic twin-peaked Mt. Yufu, has a wealth of boutiques, trendy cafes, and small museums. The small town, therefore, cleverly appeals to all types of travelers. Whether you are a …
Yufuin – Experience the Most Unique Onsen Resort in Japan Read More »
From ancient times, the people who lived in Beppu (別府) in Ōita Prefecture suffered from the heat generated by volcanic activities. Crops could hardly be grown on the field, causing serious food shortage problems. And because the terrifying landscapes shaped by volcanic activities are nowhere to be found elsewhere in Japan, various myths and legends …
A Tour to the Hells of Beppu – Japan’s Scariest Onsen Town Read More »
Those who know of Hirosaki Castle (弘前城) or Hirosaki Park (弘前公園) in Aomori Prefecture probably know them because of their reputation for stunning cherry blossoms. More than two hundred thousand people visit Hirosaki for its Cherry Blossom Festival (弘前さくらまつり) each year! No wonder it was chosen as one of the top three cherry blossom viewing …
Hirosaki Castle and Hirosaki Park – A Romantic Spot to Be Read More »
The Kurashiki Bikan Historical Quarter (倉敷美観地区), also known as Japan’s “Little Venice”, is a historical area comprising classical Japanese architecture with a few outside influences such as the Ōhara Museum of Art, which looks like a Greek temple. It is situated along the Kurashiki River in the Okayama Prefecture. The Kurashiki River was originally used …
Discover Ancient Japan at Kurashiki Bikan Historical Quarter Read More »
Lake Towada (十和田湖) isn’t just a beautiful lake that straddles both Aomori and Akita Prefecture in Northeastern Japan. Whether you prefer water sports, stroll around the virgin forest, or just like to eat, Lake Towada is a destination for everyone!
Nowadays, many Japanese castles have been included in the World Heritage Register. But, when it comes to the ranking determined by the Japan Castle Foundation, there can only be ONE castle that is ranked first place. Himeji Castle (姫路城) in Hyōgo Prefecture was nicknamed the White Heron Castle or Shirasagi-Jō (白鷺城) in Japanese because the …
Himeji Castle – The Most Elegant Castle in Japan Read More »