Hidden Gems

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Dōmyōji Tenmangū: Osaka’s Hidden Plum and Cherry Blossom Spot

If you want to receive blessings for academic success, visit Dōmyōji Tenmangū (道明寺天満宮) in Osaka‘s Fujiidera City (藤井寺市). The shrine that enshrines the God of Learning, Sugawara no Michizane (菅原道真), has a history of more than 1,400 years (founded in 947). Like most Tenmangūs in Japan, plum blossoms can be found in the shrine’s precinct. […]

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The Top 15 Attractions to Visit in Okayama Prefecture

If you are seeking a part of Japan that isn’t packed with tourists but is still culturally rich and filled with stunning scenery, Okayama Prefecture, which is just an hour from Kyoto and around 30 minutes from Hiroshima, could just be your ideal destination. In addition to the prefecture’s landmark, Okayama Castle and its garden

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The Top 12 Destinations in Aomori Prefecture

Aomori, Japan’s main island’s northmost prefecture, is filled with stunning landscapes and volcanic mountain ranges. In addition to its many off-the-beaten-path scenic destinations, it is also culturally rich and features two of the country’s best art museums. Read on and discover the top 12 places to visit when you visit Aomori!

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The Top Hidden Gems in Kyoto That Is Worth Visiting

Kyoto, a prefecture filled with Buddhist temples, palaces, and Shinto shrines, is Japan’s cultural capital and has become a major tourist destination worldwide. But did you know that in addition to the capital city of Kyoto, Kyoto Prefecture has a plethora of hidden gems off the beaten path? Here are some of our favorites!

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Okayama’s Top Spots to Enjoy Beaches and Ocean Views

If you are a beach lover and/or are after magnificent ocean views, consider visiting Okayama Prefecture when you visit Japan next time. Okayama has a plethora of amazing spots located on the Seto Inland Sea. Read on for our list of recommended destinations for stunning ocean views and beach activities in Okayama!

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Uminonakamichi Seaside Park – The Best Park in Fukuoka

If you are traveling away from Fukuoka’s city center, the Uminonakamichi Seaside Park (海の中道海浜公園) is another destination in Fukuoka City that has flowers blooming all year round. In fact, if you love taking photos in flower fields, Uminonakamichi Seaside Park is the best place to be in Fukuoka! In addition, the park has a 12

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Tadami Line and Autumn Foliage Mishima Fukushima Japan

The Best Guide to Where to Photo Tadami Line’s Eight Bridges

If you are a rail fan and are looking for a hidden gem for photos of trains with breathtaking scenery in the background, the best train line in Japan is the Tadami Line (只見線) that spans through Fukushima and Niigata Prefectures. It was chosen as Japan’s most scenic local train line and has been gaining

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Nokonoshima Island – Fukuoka’s Perfect Weekend Getaway

Fukuoka is a city that is relatively laid back compared to other big cities in Japan. If you are looking to add a natural spot for a break from the eating and shopping in the city center, consider Nokonoshima (能古島)! This island boasts a seemingly endless field of flowers throughout the year as well as

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Nokonoshima Island Park: The Must-Visit Spot on Nokonoshima

If you plan to visit Nokonoshima Island in Fukuoka, ensure Nokonoshima Island Park (のこのしまアイランドパーク) at the northmost of the island is on your itinerary. It is the most beautiful part of Nokonoshima. Especially with its breathtaking view of the flower fields and magnificent ocean as the backdrop, the park of 150,000 square meters has been

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Rakusuien Garden: The Must-Visit Japanese Garden in Hakata

If you want to escape the bustling Hakata city center quickly, Rakusuien (楽水園) at the back of Sumiyoshi Shrine is the perfect place for a short break. The small garden is like an oasis in the city, allowing you to slow down and appreciate the beauty of nature. From mid-November to early December, the garden

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