Lake Poroto
A freshwater lake with a circumference of Approx. 4 km, located in the southeastern part of Shiraoi, Hokkaido. “Poroto” means “big lake” in the Ainu language, and to the west is the neighboring “small lake,” Ponto. The wetland on the north side of the lake is known for its large colony of Asian skunk cabbage, and around May each year, you can enjoy the scenery of white flowers in bloom.
Being surrounded by mountains felt so relaxing—an instant reset for me.
Don Quijote Shinjuku Kabukicho Store
Don Quijote Shinjuku Kabukicho Store is the discount shop drawing shoppers from near and wide for its whopping selection and unbeatable prices. Sat at the entrance of Kabukicho, Japan’s largest entertainment district, the store is open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year so you can easily pop in for shopping whether on your way during the day or night.
It's impossible not to wander into this place when you're in the busiest part of Shinjuku. Ended up spending quite a bit without even realizing it.
Ikebukuro PARCO
Located in Ikebukuro, Toshima City, Tokyo, this shopping mall has been a landmark since its opening in 1969 as the first PARCO branch in Japan. Known for curating the latest trends in fashion and lifestyle, it has remained a favorite destination, particularly among younger generations. In 1994, the annex P’PARCO was also opened to expand its offerings.
This place is a paradise for trend lovers. You can always find the latest fashionable items here.
Goryokaku Park
Goryokaku, a Western-style fortress, was built in 1866 and served as the political capital of Hokkaido until the new Meiji government took over. It later became a popular tourist attraction after it was opened to the public as "Goryokaku Park" in 1914 and was designated as a national special historic site.
The area around Goryokaku Park is filled with cherry blossom trees. In May, during cherry blossom season, it's said to be the most beautiful spot for sakura in Hokkaido.
Hakodate Bugyosho
Hakodate Magistrate’s Office faithfully recreates the Edo Shognate’s security base around Japan’s northern territory. It is built at the original location in the former Goryokaku (the star-shaped fort), using as much similar skills and provisions as those in the Edo Period, such as pine beams, Bingo tatami mats or sliding doors with hand-made paper.
Once you enter Goryokaku Park, it's right inside. If you want to go in, you need to buy a separate ticket, but I just wandered around outside, took some photos, and left.
Hakodate Morning Market
Hakodate Asaichi is a huge market of about 33,000㎡. Some 250 stores, including about 150 member stores of the federation and 100 other stores, sell and serve Hokkaido foodstuffs. Member stores display a sticker of "Asaitchan ," the mascot of the Hakodate market, as their recommended store sign.
You can see live king crabs, hairy crabs, and snow crabs—the famous three kinds—right in front of you. Since it's the source, the prices are much cheaper. The salmon roe and sea urchin seafood bowls are especially a great deal—big portions and super satisfying.
Hakone Sightseeing Cruise
A sightseeing ship that operates on Lake Ashinoko, a scenic spot in Hakone. The three ships, Royale II, Victory, and Queen Ashinoko, are characterized by their colorful and luxurious decorations. Each of them has a capacity of about 500 passengers and takes 25 to 35 minutes each way between Togendai Port, Hakone-machi Port, and Moto-Hakone Port. On a sunny day, the open deck is a great place to enjoy the scenery. Enjoy the pleasant breeze and the seasonal views of nature and mountains.
Last time I went, the weather was bad. Strong winds whipped up waves across the lake, and the pirate ship was completely out of service. It was a bit disappointing.
Osaka aqua-Bus Aqua-Liner
A standard sightseeing boat in the aquatic city of Osaka that takes you to Osaka Castle and Nakanoshima! A 40-minute cruise along the Okawa River, which runs through the center of Osaka. The area along the Okawa River is lush with greenery and lined with retro architecture, providing a tasteful view of the city.
The cabin was super clean and comfortable. You get to enjoy views of downtown Osaka along the way.
Isawa Hot Spring Resort
In January 1961, hot water gushed from a vineyard in the town of Isawa and flowed out into a nearby river, creating the "Aozora Onsen," which is said to be the beginning of Isawa Onsen. It is one of the largest hot spring resorts in Yamanashi, the land of hot springs, with more than 30 inns and hotels, ranging from budget inns to large hotels with swimming pools so you can enjoy various hot springs.
This is a famous hot spring area in Yamanashi. I've stayed here many times. After dinner, walking down the Isawa Onsen street in a yukata feels really nice.
Osaka Ikuno KoreaTown (Miyuki-dori Shopping Street)
Osaka Ikuno Korea Town refers to the “Miyuki-dori Shopping Street, Miyuki-dori Central Shopping Street, and Miyuki-dori East Shopping Street”. The area is the home of Miyukimori Tenjingu Shrine, which has a history of 1,600 years. It is a shopping street with about 120 stores lined up along a 500-meter stretch from east to west.
It feels almost just like being in Korea! You can find lots of authentic Korean products here.