Nyūtō Onsen (乳頭温泉郷) is a rural hot spring resort in Akita Prefecture (秋田県) that consists of six ryokans and one hotel, each having its history, style, and spring quality. Listed as one of the 100 Japan Hidden Scenic Spots (日本の秘境100選), the resort is quietly nestled deep in the mountain at the base of Mt. Nyūtō.
Nyūtō Onsen and the 7 Unique Ryokans Deep in the Mountain Read More »
Kyūkamura Nyūtō Onsenkyō (渡假村 乳頭溫泉鄉) is one of the 37 hotels owned by the National Park Resort Chain. Although the hotel itself doesn’t have the secrecy element like the other six ryokans in Nyūtō Onsen, the facilities in Kyūkamura are suitable for families or the elderly due to its level of service, modern facilities, and
Kyūkamura: The Only Western-Style Hotel in Nyūtō Onsen Read More »
If comfortability is more important to you when staying in a hot spring town, consider spending a night at Tae-no-Yu (妙乃湯). The luxurious ryokan offers high-quality service and facility. Soon after you enter this ryokan, you should be able to smell a strong woody aroma from its wooden interior decoration, making it popular amongst female
Tae no Yu and the Luxurious Onsen Experience in Nyūtō Onsen Read More »
If you plan to visit Nyūtō Onsen, one of the top hot spring towns in Akita Prefecture, we highly recommend booking a night with Tsuru no Yu (鶴之湯). It is the oldest ryokan in town and was once a spa for the lords of the Akita domain. Thus, besides the guestrooms and public baths, a
Tsuru no Yu: Nyūtō Onsen’s Oldest But Most Popular Ryokan Read More »
Speaking of plum blossoms in Japan, many Japanese would think of Sugawara no Michizane (菅原道真). The famous scholar from the Heian period (794 – 1185) is known for his love towards plum blossoms. Therefore, most, if not all, of the Tenmangū shrines in Japan have plums planted. The Tsunashiki Tenmangū (綱敷天満宮) in Kobe isn’t an
Tsunashiki Tenmangū: The Plum Blossoms & Interesting Rituals Read More »
Sakura Park (猿賀公園) in Hirakawa City in Aomori Prefecture is a 6.3-hectare park surrounding the Saruka Shrine. It is the best spot in the city where anyone can enjoy some relaxing time any time of the year (*’▽’).
Saruka Park – The Best Park in Hirakawa City Read More »
If sightseeing is what you are after in Kobe, stopping by the Kitano Ijinkan-Gai (北野異人館街) is a must, even if you come from a European country with similar house features. The old houses open to the public have all been renovated into museums with different themes. From the ones where you get to peek into
Kitano Ijinkan-gai and the Most Interesting Old Houses You Will Ever Find Read More »
If you only have time to visit a few houses in Kitano Ijikan-gai, ensure the Platon Decorative Arts Museum (プラトン装飾美術館) is on the list. The fundamental difference between the Platon Decorative Arts Museum and the other Western-style houses in the area is that this one is privately owned. Probably because of this, the staff welcoming
Platon Decorative Arts Museum: The Must-Go Spot in Kitano Ijinkan-gai Read More »
If you have been to Kyoto, you might have heard of or been to Kitano Tanmangū Shrine (北野天満神社). So when you hear of the Kitano Tenman shrine, you might wonder if they are related. And you are right. The Kitano Tenmangu Shrine in Kyoto is the origin of the Kitano Tenman Shrine in Kobe! Besides
Kitano Tenman Shrine and the Plum and Cherry Blossoms Read More »
Close to Kobe in Takarazuka City, Nakayama-dera (中山寺) is a well-known plum blossom spot in the region. The temple has long been known for granting child-related prayers, including safe delivery. So, it was worshipped and supported by the imperial family and power samurais, such as Toyotomi Hideyoshi. Escalators and elevators are in the temple, making it
Nakayama-dera: The Safe Delivery Rituals & Stunning Flowers Read More »
