Naruto Bussan Kan
Local product store on the 1st floor of Uzushio Kaikan. Naruto City's specialties, seaweed and water lily roots, sweet potato products, sweets and wine made of Tokushima citrus and many more are available.
Everything sold here is related to Naruto, like Naruto Kintoki sweet potatoes, dried seafood, and whirlpool-themed souvenirs. There are so many options! The moment you walk in, it's easy to start grabbing things without even realizing it.
Atomic Bomb Dome (Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park)
The Atomic Bomb Dome, in its original design, was completed as the Hiroshima Prefectural Industrial Promotional Hall, by Czech architect Jan Letzel on April 5th, 1915. However, as it stood just 160 meters from the epicenter of the atomic bomb, it suffered severe damage from the blast. With a gutted steel frame and damaged exterior, its known colloquially as the Atomic Bomb Dome, a building that stands in testament to the tragic history unfolded here.
This is a historic site left behind by the atomic bombing in World War II. It serves as a sad reminder of the cruelty of war and stands as a landmark for peace.
Ochanomizu sola city
Opened in April 2013, Ochanomizu sola city is a large multi-purpose complex located in the Ochanomizu area, known for its historical scenery. The complex is easily accessible, situated near the Kanda River and just a short walk from Ochanomizu Station. The 23-story building primarily houses offices but also includes conference rooms, shops, restaurants, and exhibition facilities, making it a hub for business professionals.
This is a multi-purpose commercial building near the station. There's a supermarket, convenience store, and all kinds of restaurants in the basement. The courtyard has plenty of places to sit and relax, so it's a nice spot to enjoy a laid-back lunch.
Onaruto Bridge
Onaruto Bridge that links Awaji Island and Shikoku, spanning 1,629m over Naruto Channel known for whirlpools. Together with Akashi kaikyo Bridge, you can go from Kansai Region directly to Shikoku, and it has been part of a popular touring route.
The Onaruto Bridge connects Shikoku and Awaji Island. It has two levels—the upper level is for regular vehicles, and the lower level was originally designed for the Shinkansen but was later turned into the Uzunomichi walkway. It's the best spot to see the Naruto whirlpools.
Great Seto Bridge
Great Seto Bridge connects Okayama Prefecture on the main Island and Kagawa Prefecture on Shikoku Island. This name is for all the six bridges that stretch for 9.4km (5.8 miles) over the channel. Different types such as suspension bridge, cable-stayed bridge, and truss bridge are connected together.
You can see the entire Seto Ohashi Bridge from the observation deck on Washuzan in Kurashiki Kojima. On weekend nights, the bridge lights up and the atmosphere feels totally different.
Universal Studios Japan
Universal Studios Japan, nicknamed “USJ”, is a large-scale theme park with entertainment for everyone, both children and adults alike. The park is separated into different areas, each with a different theme from popular titles across the world.
There are so many visitors! The Harry Potter area was insanely crowded, and the other attractions were really popular too. Luckily, I bought a fast pass—otherwise, I can't imagine how much time I would've wasted waiting in line.
Shirakawa-go (Historic Village)
Shirakawa-go, a beautiful area where traditional Japanese scenery still exists, is home to the largest number of still-standing traditional “gassho-zukuri” Japanese homes. As of 2016, there are around 100 buildings still standing, both large and small. It is the largest remaining historic settlement in Japan, and it is preserved as a Group of Traditional Buildings in the register of Cultural Properties of Japan.
I've been to Shirakawa-go several times, and each visit feels different. Maybe it's because it's so famous now—tour buses keep bringing in more and more tourists, and the local lifestyle is slowly changing. If you have time, I recommend staying overnight at a local guesthouse to really experience life here.
Matsumoto Castle
Matsumoto Castle was built between the years 1593 and 1594. It is one of the oldest of the still-standing “gojuu-rokkai” (five roofs, six stories) structures in Japan, and it has been registered as a national treasure.
Matsumoto Castle is almost as popular and well-known as Himeji Castle. One is white, the other is black—each has its own unique charm. Among all the castles in Japan, this one has one of the most beautiful layouts and is really well preserved. Definitely worth a visit.