Hidden Gems | Vegetarian's Japan Guide

Aomori’s Top 3 Ponds: Jigokunuma, Suirennuma & Tsuta Nananuma

January 19, 2026 / Aomori Prefecture, Autumn Foliage, Hidden Gems, Snow Scenery, Tōhoku Region, Trekking/Hiking in Japan

Explore the breathtaking volcanic beauty of Aomori’s Hakkoda Mountains with a visit to Jigokunuma Pond, Suirennuma Pond, and the mystical Tsuta Nananuma (Seven Ponds of Tsuta). This trio of aquatic wonders showcases the diverse landscapes of Towada-Hachimantai National Park, from the steaming, sulfur-rich “Hell Pond” of Jigokunuma near Sukayu Onsen to the high-altitude marshlands and […]

Aomori’s Top 3 Ponds: Jigokunuma, Suirennuma & Tsuta Nananuma Read More »

Tsuta Nananuma Guide: Exploring Aomori’s 7 Mystical Ponds

January 15, 2026 / Aomori Prefecture, Autumn Foliage, Hidden Gems, Tōhoku Region, Trekking/Hiking in Japan

Nestled in the pristine beech forests of Towada-Hachimantai National Park, the Tsuta Nananuma (Seven Ponds of Tsuta) offer a mystical landscape just steps from the historic Tsuta Onsen Ryokan. Formed by ancient volcanic activity, this cluster of serene waters is a sanctuary for rare birds and a premier destination for those seeking the quiet beauty

Tsuta Nananuma Guide: Exploring Aomori’s 7 Mystical Ponds Read More »

Hiking Togakushi Shrine: The 5 Shrines and Iconic Cedar Path

January 11, 2026 / Chūbu Region, Hidden Gems, Nagano Prefecture, Temples & Shrines, Trekking/Hiking in Japan

Deep in the forested highlands of Nagano, Togakushi Shrine (Togakushi Jinja, 戸隠神社) is a sacred destination where ancient Japanese mythology meets breathtaking natural beauty. Comprising five distinct shrines, Hokosha, Hinomikosha, Chusha, Kuzuryusha, and Okusha, this spiritual complex is legendary for its association with the “Amano-Iwato” myth, where the sun goddess Amaterasu was lured from a

Hiking Togakushi Shrine: The 5 Shrines and Iconic Cedar Path Read More »

Hirosaki-Apple-Park-And-Mt.-Iwaki-Hirosaki-Aomori-Japan

Apple Picking at Hirosaki Apple Park: Tips & Seasonal Events

January 11, 2026 / Aomori Prefecture, Cultural Experiences & Activities, Hidden Gems, Sweets, Tōhoku Region

Immerse yourself in Japan’s premier fruit-growing culture at Hirosaki Apple Park (弘前市りんご公園), a 9.7-hectare “apple wonderland” nestled at the base of the majestic Mt. Iwaki. Home to over 2,300 trees and 80 distinct varieties, this park is the ultimate destination for apple picking in Aomori, with harvest experiences available from early August through mid-November. Beyond

Apple Picking at Hirosaki Apple Park: Tips & Seasonal Events Read More »

The Complete Guide to the Stunning Hakkoda Mountains

January 19, 2026 / 100 Famous Japanese Mountains, Aomori Prefecture, Autumn Foliage, Hidden Gems, Skiing/Snowboarding, Snow Scenery, Tōhoku Region, Trekking/Hiking in Japan

Hiking in the Hakkōda Mountains (八甲田山) offers an unparalleled adventure through the volcanic heart of Aomori. From the easy, 30-minute Hakkoda Gourd Line boardwalk at the ropeway summit to the rugged, full-day trek across the Odake peak toward the steaming Sukayu Onsen, this range caters to every level of explorer. Whether you are traversing lush

The Complete Guide to the Stunning Hakkoda Mountains Read More »

Hakkoda Ropeway Guide: Views, Skiing, and Hiking in Aomori

January 21, 2026 / Aomori Prefecture, Autumn Foliage, Hidden Gems, Skiing/Snowboarding, Snow Scenery, Tōhoku Region

Planning a trip to Aomori? Look no further than the Hakkōda Ropeway (八甲田ロープウェー), your gateway to the stunning Hakkoda Mountains. This iconic aerial lift offers passengers breathtaking, panoramic views of the surrounding peaks, Aomori City, and even distant Hokkaidō on a clear day. Whether you’re seeking to marvel at vibrant autumn foliage, trek through alpine

Hakkoda Ropeway Guide: Views, Skiing, and Hiking in Aomori Read More »

Hakkoda & Oirase Gorge: Ponds, Waterfalls, and Secret Onsens

January 21, 2026 / 100 Famous Japanese Mountains, 100 Hidden Scenic Spots, Aomori Prefecture, Autumn Foliage, Hidden Gems, Snow Scenery, Tōhoku Region, Trekking/Hiking in Japan

Embark on an unforgettable journey along the Hakkoda-Towada Gold Line, a premier scenic route connecting the majestic Hakkoda Ropeway to the emerald waters of Lake Towada. This guide takes you through the heart of Aomori’s wilderness, starting with the towering Hakkoda Snow Corridor and the steaming volcanic depths of Jigoku-numa. Experience the healing waters of

Hakkoda & Oirase Gorge: Ponds, Waterfalls, and Secret Onsens Read More »

The Stunning Spots Along the Akita Nairiku Train Line

December 30, 2025 / Akita Prefecture, Autumn Foliage, Hidden Gems, Tōhoku Region, Top 100 Waterfalls in Japan, Transportation in Japan, Trekking/Hiking in Japan

Journey into the “Great North” of Japan on the Akita Nairiku Line (秋田内陸線), a scenic railway that unlocks access to some of the country’s most pristine wilderness. This historic line serves as the gateway to the breathtaking Yasu-no-Taki, Japan’s second-highest waterfall, and the elegant, secluded curves of Todo Falls. Beyond the rails, travelers can discover

The Stunning Spots Along the Akita Nairiku Train Line Read More »

Snow-Monster-Ani-Ski-Reosrt-Mt-Moriyoshi

Mt. Moriyoshi: The Stunning Nature & the Akita Snow Monsters

December 29, 2025 / 100 Famous Japanese Mountains, Akita Prefecture, Autumn Foliage, Hidden Gems, Snow Scenery, Tōhoku Region, Trekking/Hiking in Japan

Rising majestically in the heart of Akita Prefecture, Mt. Moriyoshi (森吉山) is among the top three locations in Japan for finding the “Snow Monsters” (Juhyo) that form as a result of the unique weather phenomenon. While Zao (蔵王山) is well-known, Mt. Moriyoshi offers a more tranquil, off-the-beaten-path experience for viewing these frozen volcanic trees. Accessible

Mt. Moriyoshi: The Stunning Nature & the Akita Snow Monsters Read More »

Rokkō Garden Terrace: The Top Spot to Adore Kobe’s Cityscape

December 26, 2025 / Hidden Gems, Hyōgo Prefecture, Kansai Region

Perched atop one of Japan’s most iconic peaks, Rokkō Garden Terrace (六甲ガーデンテラス) offers one of the most breathtaking panoramic views in the country. Known for its “ten-million-dollar” night view of Kobe and the glittering Osaka Bay, this premier observation destination features unique architectural landmarks like the Rokko-Shidare Observatory. Visitors can stroll through English-style gardens, enjoy

Rokkō Garden Terrace: The Top Spot to Adore Kobe’s Cityscape Read More »