Queenie's Reviews Page 1/3

Ryotanji Temple

This temple has episodes with the historically famous Ii Naotora, a female political leader with a male name. Ryotanji has Ii Family’s graves on the grounds, and Naotora’s confidante, Nankei Zuimon, ran this temple.

• Shizuoka
• Shrines & Temples

If you're visiting Hamamatsu, Shizuoka, consider stopping by the historic Ryotanji Temple. Its most captivating feature is the beautiful garden designated as a National Place of Scenic Beauty. Sitting quietly in front of it and taking in the dry landscape garden and seasonal scenery is so relaxing that even spending half an hour doing nothing feels wonderful. The temple also houses many artifacts related to the Ii family and Ii Naotora. Behind the temple is the Ii family cemetery, including the graves of Ii Naochika and Ii Naotora. If you've seen the historical drama “Naotora: The Lady Warlord,” visiting this place really feels like stepping into history. Admission is JPY 700. The atmosphere is quiet and peaceful, making it well worth exploring and experiencing at a leisurely pace.

Nihondaira Yume Terrace

Located atop Nihondaira-a 307-meter-high hill in Shizuoka City that once ranked No.1 in the “Japan Tourist Destination 100 Contest”-Nihondaira Yume Terrace is a scenic observation and lookout point that opened in 2018. Make your way here for views of Mt. Fuji, Suruga Bay, and Miho no Matsubara that are all worth the travel, plus multiple vantage points across its beautifully designed spaces.

• Shizuoka
• Observatories

After taking a bus uphill from Shimizu Station and arriving at Nihondaira, what I looked forward to most was going up to the observation deck. The 360-degree view is almost unfair—you can see Suruga Bay and the Izu Peninsula, and on a clear day, even Mount Fuji.

But seeing Mount Fuji really depends on luck. As soon as the clouds roll in, it completely “disappears.” That's also why every moment when Mount Fuji reveals itself is such a delightful surprise!

Compared with the Fujiyoshida area, there are far fewer visitors here. There aren't huge crowds competing for space, so you can stroll around, take photos at your leisure, and enjoy Shizuoka's distinctive mountain and ocean scenery.

If you like seeing Mount Fuji but don't want to deal with crowds, Nihondaira is really worth visiting!

Nihondaira Ropeway

Nihondaira, a hilly area at an elevation of 307 meters, was once ranked No. 1 in the Japan Tourist Spot Top 100. This ropeway connects its summit with Kunozan Toshogu Shrine, a historic site associated with Tokugawa Ieyasu. The line is 1,065 m long and the ride takes Approx. 5 minutes. Below, you can look out over the sheer cliffs of Byobudani Valley and the Kuno Coast along Suruga Bay. It’s especially popular during the fresh greenery of spring and the fall foliage season. On clear days, you can also spot Omaezaki Cape and the Izu Peninsula.

• Shizuoka
• Ropeway

When visiting Nihondaira, don't miss this aerial ropeway connecting Nihondaira and Kunozan Toshogu Shrine! A round-trip ticket costs JPY 1,130, saving you the effort of climbing the mountain, and you can enjoy views of the valley and Suruga Bay during the short ride.

Interestingly, the Nihondaira Ropeway and Taiwan's Maokong Gondola are “sister ropeways,” and there's plenty of information about their relationship inside the station. The commentary differs on the outbound and return trips, with stories about Ieyasu and the history of Kunozan along the way. It was surprisingly interesting to listen to.

The station is also fun to browse, with Shizuoka specialties, Ieyasu-themed souvenirs, and even a model of Ieyasu's hand that you can compare yours with. If you're visiting Shizuoka, I highly recommend planning a trip to both the Nihondaira Ropeway and Kunozan Toshogu Shrine!

Kunozan Toshogu Shrine

This shrine was built to enshrine Tokugawa Ieyasu, the founder of the Edo Administration, by Tokugawa Hidetaka, the second shogun in 1617. It is said to have been built in accordance with his will to be buried at Mt. Kunozan.

• Shizuoka
• Shrines & Temples

Kunozan Toshogu Shrine sits between the mountains and the sea. It is the original Toshogu shrine in Japan and the first resting place of Lord Tokugawa Ieyasu. Taking the ropeway means you don't have to climb all 1,159 stone steps, and you can easily enjoy magnificent views of Suruga Bay and the Izu Peninsula. The most impressive sight in the grounds is the National Treasure shrine building, with black lacquer, vermilion, gold leaf, and intricate carvings that make it both ornate and solemn. Walking all the way to the shrine at the very back and experiencing the peaceful atmosphere steeped in history makes it truly worth a visit!

Jozankei Onsen (Hot Springs)

A historical hot spring resort located in Minami-Ku, Sapporo, Hokkaido, also known as the inner city of the large Sapporo metropolis. It has been designated as Shikotsu-Toya National Park for more than 150 years since the hot spring opened. The hot spring resort extends along the riverbanks carved by the Shirai River and the Toyohira River.

• Jozankei, Makomanai
• Famous Places

Walking into Jozankei feels like arriving in a Japanese hot spring town surrounded by mountains and forests. It has a history of about 150 years and was founded by the ascetic monk Miizumi Jozan. It still retains the distinctive atmosphere of a traditional hot spring district. My favorite spot was the footbath near the park entrance. The spring water was clear and clean, and quite hot, making it especially relaxing to soak my tired feet. Strolling slowly along the valley, listening to the babbling stream and feeling the mountain breeze, I naturally began to slow down. It's perfect for spending half a day with no rush, simply enjoying the leisurely pace.

Lake Shikotsu

Formed approximately 40,000 years ago by volcanic activity, Lake Shikotsu is a caldera lake with a circumference of about 40 kilometers and a maximum depth of 360 meters, making it the second deepest lake in Japan. Its low nutrient content and minimal plankton growth result in exceptional water clarity, earning it a reputation as one of Japan’s clearest lakes. The way the water shimmers a brilliant blue under sunlight is affectionately known as “Shikotsu Blue.”

• Chitose and Tomakomai
• Nature Spots

You really have to get close to the water at Lake Shikotsu in Hokkaido to appreciate its beauty. I especially recommend taking a boat ride or walking along the stream next to the visitor center. The water is so clear you can almost see straight to the bottom, and its deep blue color inevitably brings Jiuzhaigou to mind. The lake is surrounded by mountains, and the air is fresh and pleasant. As for cycling around the lake, the scenery is fairly ordinary. If you’re short on time, definitely save it for the lake itself—it’s much more worthwhile!

Otaru Canal Cruise

The Otaru Canal, completed in 1923 (Taisho 12) by reclaiming the offshore coast, is lined with historic stone and timber warehouses and remains a popular tourist attraction. A 40-minute tour on a cruise boat around this area is a popular choice among visitors.

• Otaru and Niseko
• Experiences Facilities

The Otaru Canal Cruise is a highly recommended experience when visiting Otaru! The boat slowly makes its way along the canal, and during the day, you can admire the well-preserved historic buildings and warehouses along the waterfront. Listening to the onboard commentary also gives you a better sense of Otaru's former prosperity as a port town. In the evening, the sunset and streetlights reflect on the canal, creating a completely different atmosphere. See the history by day and enjoy the romantic night views after dark—each time of day has its own charm, so don't miss it when visiting Otaru!

Otaru Tenguyama Observation Platform, Otaru Tenguyama Ropeway

Otaru’s symbol, Mt.Tengu, stands 532m-high above sea level. On top, there is an observation platform awarded one star on Michelin Green Guide Japon, where you can look out at the city and the Japan Sea. At night, Mt Tengu offers a breath-taking sight over Otaru City, referred to as one of Hokkaido’s Three Best Night Views, along with Mt. Moiwa and Mt. Hakodate.

• Otaru and Niseko
• Observatories

Mt. Tengu is an attraction you absolutely shouldn't miss when visiting Otaru! I specifically chose a clear day, took the train from Sapporo to Otaru, then transferred to a bus and the ropeway up the mountain. I enjoyed the mountain scenery all the way up, and once I reached the observation platform, I could see all of Otaru, Otaru Port, and the coastline. The elevation here isn't particularly high, which actually makes the view of the city feel just right. The views are also great as you slowly walk along the hiking trails. Overall, the scenery is every bit as good as Mt. Hakodate, with an added touch of romance unique to Otaru. I recommend heading up the mountain when you visit Otaru!

Otaru Canal

Otaru Port, which developed as a gateway for Hokkaido's settlement, saw an increasing volume of cargo over the years. To streamline its transportation, the "Otaru Canal" was completed in 1923 (Taisho 12). The canal, created by reclaiming the offshore coast, is characterized by its gentle curves rather than a straight line.

• Otaru and Niseko
• Tourist Attractions

After taking the JR train to Otaru Station, I slowly walked over, enjoying the laid-back atmosphere of Otaru's streets along the way. The weather was beautiful that day, and the blue sky and white clouds paired with the warehouse buildings along the canal made every photo look great.

I strolled along the canal, took photos, and soaked in the city's unique romantic and nostalgic atmosphere. Otaru is even more charming when the weather is nice. Walking through the streets feels like being in a movie scene.

If you visit Otaru in Hokkaido, I really recommend setting aside some time to take a leisurely walk along the canal. There's no need to rush—just wandering around is very relaxing.

Shobara Ueno Park

The park is developed around Ueno Pond, which spans an area of 2km in circumference. It's recognized as one of the "Top 100 Cherry Blossom Spots" in Japan, with about 600 Somei Yoshino cherry trees planted around the pond that begin blooming in late March and reach their peak in early April.

• Hiroshima
• Parks & Gardens

Shobara Ueno Park is a well-known cherry blossom viewing spot in Hiroshima Prefecture, with about 600 Somei Yoshino cherry trees blooming all around the pond. Just imagining the whole expanse of pink reflected on the water during cherry blossom season—it must be so beautiful you'd never want to leave!
Unfortunately, this visit wasn't during cherry blossom season, so I missed the romantic sight of the trees in full bloom, which was a bit disappointing. I hear the nighttime cherry blossom illuminations here are also very popular. If I get another chance, I'll definitely come back when the cherry blossoms are in full bloom and take in the whole beautiful view.