Kenninji Temple
The oldest Zen temple in Kyoto and the head temple of the Kenninji sect of the Rinzai school. In 1202, Minamoto no Yorie, the second shogun of the Kamakura Shogunate, donated the temple area to the temple and founded it with Yousai Zenji as the founder.
It's pretty rare for temples to allow photography inside.
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.
The weather was bad and it was freezing cold. I couldn't stay on the deck for even five minutes—almost everyone ran back inside the cabin.
Hakone Shrine
Hakone Shrine sits just steps from Lake Ashi, a spot dotted with coveted Hakone destinations like Owakudani and Togen-dai. The shrine heralds the Hakone Ookami god, and remains one of the most renowned shrines in Kanto.
You absolutely can't miss the stunning torii gate on the water when you visit Hakone Shrine.
Lake Chuzenji
It has been said that the valley was dammed by lava from the eruption of Mt. Nantai about 20,000 years ago, and the original shape was created. Located at an altitude of 1,269 meters above sea level, it is at one of the highest heights in Japan.
If you're in Nikko, you have to check out Lake Chuzenji and see just how beautiful the scenery is!
Kamikochi
Kamikochi offers one of Japan's most spectacular mountain sceneries. Its magnificent landscape is designated as a Special Natural Monuments along with Special Places of Scenic Beauty. Walter Weston, a British Anglican missionary praised Kamikochi in his writing “Mountaineering and Exploration in the Japan Alps” in 1896 which made Kamikochi an internationally well-known mountain area.
If you can, you really should spend a night in Kamikochi. Once the crowds leave in the evening, you can truly experience the peaceful and sacred beauty of the place.
Nara Park
Nara Park is a scenic area surrounded by historical and cultural treasures, including Kasuga Taisha Shrine, Kohfukuji Temple, Todaiji Temple, the Nara National Museum, and Shoso-in. Visitors can enjoy the breathtaking natural beauty of its expansive greenery while exploring these iconic landmarks. The park is located in the center of the city, making it easily accessible to various tourist spots.
A beautiful park with lots of adorable deer roaming around. They're definitely the highlight here.