Snow Scenery

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

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 […]

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Oirase Gorge Aomori Ishigedo Stream

Oirase Gorge: Japan’s Best Waterfalls & River Walk

Immerse yourself in the ethereal beauty of Oirase Gorge (Oirase Keiryū, 奥入瀬渓流), a 14-kilometer stretch of crystal-clear mountain streams and moss-covered rock formations in Aomori Prefecture. Located within the Towada-Hachimantai National Park, this breathtaking valley is renowned as one of Japan’s most scenic destinations, especially during the vibrant autumn foliage season and the lush “fresh

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When to Visit Hirosaki: Cherry Blossoms, Festivals & More

When is the best time to visit Hirosaki? While this Aomori gem is world-famous for its late-April cherry blossoms, every season offers a distinct reason to explore. From the spectacular “Sakura Carpet” at Hirosaki Castle and the summer energy of the Neputa Festival to the crisp autumn apple harvests and the magical Winter Snow Lantern

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

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

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Kurama and Kibune: The Hidden Gems in the Mountains of Kyoto

If you are ever looking for a naturally cool and refreshing spot in Kyoto, then read on! Mt Kurama and Kibune, located in the northernmost part of Kyoto City, are where the locals head to when they want to escape the summer heat. Why? Because the best way to spend a summer day in Kyoto

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The Best Guide to the World Heritage: Shirakawagō

Since its listing as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1995, Shirakawa-gō (白川郷), also known as Shirakawagō in Gifu Prefecture, has been considered one of the most popular getaway spots in Japan. Located in a remote mountainous region in central Japan, Shirakawago village and their people were known to be isolated and hidden from the

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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 the Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route

The Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route (立山黒部アルペンルート) is a scenic route that traverses the Japanese Northern Alps, connecting Toyama and Nagano Prefectures. Known as the Roof of Japan, Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route opens on April 15 and closes on November 30 each year. This spectacular route is renowned for its magnificent 20-meter snow wall at the

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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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Hōsen-in and Its Amazing Gardens and Blood-Stained Ceiling

Just a 5-minute walk from Kyoto Ōhara’s (大原) prime attraction, Sanzen-in, is the Hōsen-in Temple (宝泉院). While the scale of Hōsen-in is smaller than Sanzen-in, think twice before giving it a pass. Because in addition to two gorgeous gardens, the temple also has a historical element that can be traced back to 1600!

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