簡龍's Reviews

Sumoto Castle Ruins

Castle ruins located at the summit of Mt. Mikuma, Approx. 133 meters above sea level, in eastern Awaji Island. From the Sengoku period to the Edo period, it served as a base for governing Awaji Province. It is said to have been built in 1526 by the Ataka clan, who led the Awaji navy, and was later renovated by the Wakisaka clan into the stone-walled castle that remains today. From the ruins, you can enjoy a sweeping view not only of Sumoto City but also of Osaka Bay, making it a stronghold worthy of being called a fortress of the southern seas.

Hyogo
Tourist Attractions

1 Jan 2026 See More

You have to hike up a short mountain path, and you’ll break a bit of a sweat, but the view from the castle ruins is really nice. You can look out over all of Sumoto City and the ocean, which feels super rewarding.
There aren’t many buildings left at the site, so it’s more of a place to enjoy the scenery and take in the history.
It’s not crowded, and the atmosphere is nice and peaceful. On a sunny day, it’s a great spot for a walk and some photos. If you don’t mind a bit of walking, this is definitely a worthwhile stop on Awaji Island.

Lake Yamanaka（Yamanaka-ko）

Lake Yamanaka covers an area of about 6.57 square kilometers and is about 980.5 meters above sea level. It is located at the third highest point in Japan. The lake is the closest to Mt. Fuji among the “Fuji Five Lakes " and offers beautiful scenery of the four seasons with the majestic Mt.Fuji.

Yamanashi
Nature Spots

1 Jan 2026 See More

The scenery at Lake Yamanaka is really beautiful.

But the spots are quite far from each other, so driving is the best way to see everything without feeling rushed.

Hirano-no-Hama, Nagasaki Lakeside Park, and the swan boat area are all easy to visit in one smooth loop if you have a car.

Kitami Shrine

Founded in 1897 as a spiritual anchor for pioneer settlers, this shrine enshrines Amaterasu Omikami, Toyoukehime no Kami, and Sumiyoshi Okami. It was originally called Gokoku Shrine, but in 1942 it was renamed to its current name. Revered as the local guardian shrine since the pioneering era, it is now also a popular spot for Hatsumode, the first shrine visit of the New Year, among Kitami residents.

Shiretoko and Abashiri and Kitami and Monbetsu
Shrines & Temples

20 Sep 2025 See More

The snowy scenery is absolutely beautiful. Visiting in winter feels really peaceful, and there aren’t many people around, so you can take your time walking around without dealing with crowds.

LEGOLAND Discovery Center Osaka

Originally launched in 1932 with a mission to foster “knowledge and learning through fun”, this themepark is dedicated to the same LEGO® blocks that are loved by kids and parents around the world.

Osaka Port, Bay Area
Amusement Parks & Theme parks

15 Jan 2022 See More

It's a pretty strange spot. Adults can't enter alone—only if you're with kids? That seems odd.

Hirakata Park

Hirakata Park, or “Hirapah” as its lovingly nicknamed, is said to be the oldest amusement park in Japan that’s still open today.

Hirakata, Neyagawa, Moriguchi
Amusement Parks & Theme parks

15 Jan 2022 See More

Great place for families with kids. It's also really close to the train station.

Sumiyoshi Taisha

The head shrine of 2300 Sumiyoshi shrines nationwide, revered as the god of cleansing evil spirits, safe voyage and poetry. It is said that Osaka’s summer festival begins with Aizen Festival, via Tenjin Festival and ends with Sumiyoshi Festival.

Sumiyoshi, Nagai
Shrines & Temples

15 Jan 2022 See More

If you find stones with the characters for 'five,' 'big,' and 'power' carved on them, it's said your wishes will come true. Put them in a charm bag as a keepsake.

Shinsekai Hon-dori Shopping Street

Tsutenkaku Tower, Jan Jan Yokocho Street, Spa World are in Ebisu-Higashi, Naniwa District. People started calling this area Shinsekai (New World) in 1912, when Tsutenkaku and Japan’s second amusement park, Luna Park, opened. It meant a new-born tourist spot in Osaka. Since then, this amusement street has grown, used as a location for movies and TV dramas, and became a famous site in Osaka.

Tennoji, Shinsekai
Shopping Streets

15 Jan 2022 See More

The restaurant signs here are super flashy—just like the personality of Osaka locals.

Kyocera Dome Osaka

It opened in 1997 as Japan's third dome stadium, following "the Tokyo Dome" and "the Fukuoka Dome." It is currently used as the home of the Orix Buffaloes. It is one of the largest domes in Japan, with a maximum capacity of approximately 55,000 people. It has become a landmark in Osaka City's Nishi Ward, where official professional baseball games, concerts, and events are held.

Hommachi, Yodoyabashi, Kitahama
Museums

15 Jan 2022 See More

The seats are really cramped. Watching the game was kind of uncomfortable.