楊雅雯's Reviews Page 9/13

Hokumon Shrine

Hokumon Shrine stands on an elevated spot overlooking Wakkanai Port and holds the distinction of being the northernmost shrine in Japan with a resident priest. Its origins trace back to 1785, when Denbei Murayama, a contractor of the Matsumae domain, enshrined Amaterasu Omikami as a guardian deity for the northern gate while stationed in Sōya. He established a small shrine and named it Sōya Daijingu. Today, the enshrined deities are Amaterasu Omikami, Takemikazuchi-no-Kami, and Kotoshironushi-no-Kami, and the shrine is known for bringing blessings such as a good harvest, safe voyages, business prosperity, matchmaking, and safe childbirth.

• Wakkanai and Rumoi
• Shrines & Temples

When visiting one of Japan's northernmost shrines, of course you can't miss taking home a precious goshuin from Japan's northernmost shrine. There's also a unique little touch near the shrine entrance: the hand-washing station automatically dispenses water, which I found convenient and interesting. Besides enjoying the peaceful atmosphere of this northern shrine, don't forget to get a goshuin as a special keepsake from your trip.

Hokkaido Shrine

Hokkaido Shrine, one of the most prominent shrines in Hokkaido, is located in Chuo District, Sapporo City. Its history is long, which began in 1869, when the Emperor Meiji directed to enshrine “Kaitaku Sanshin (Developing Three Deities)” here as a place of faith for pioneers.

• Sapporo Station, Odori, Susukino
• Shrines & Temples

When visiting Sapporo, Hokkaido Shrine is definitely worth adding to your itinerary. Located in Maruyama Park, it has a different charm in every season and a steady stream of worshippers.
This historic shrine is not only an important center of worship in Hokkaido, but also offers its own special beauty, whether you're viewing cherry and plum blossoms in spring or enjoying the snowy scenery in winter.
Once inside the shrine grounds, away from the noise of the city, there's a peaceful and solemn atmosphere, making it especially pleasant to stroll around. If you happen to visit during the Sapporo Festival in June, you can also experience the lively atmosphere of a traditional Hokkaido festival.

Maruyama Park (Sapporo)

Maruyama Park is located north of Maruyama Virgin Forest, known for its beautiful cherry blossoms since ancient times. The park boasts about 120 cherry trees such as Sargent cherry and Somei-Yoshino, which attract many visitors in spring.

• Sapporo Station, Odori, Susukino
• Parks & Gardens

Maruyama Park is a popular place in central Sapporo for enjoying nature and relaxing. Strolling through the park, you'll find lush greenery and peaceful surroundings, along with a unique atmosphere where nature and shrine culture come together.
It's said to be very beautiful in spring when the cherry and plum blossoms bloom at the same time, while in fall, the entire park turns red with maple leaves. Both are very charming seasons.
Unfortunately, this visit wasn't during the popular flower season, so I didn't get to see the cherry blossoms or fall foliage. But looking at all the greenery from a different perspective had its own special charm.
Hokkaido really does look different in every season!

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

When I arrived at Lake Shikotsu in Hokkaido, I was immediately captivated by the lake and mountain scenery. Surrounded by mountains, the lake is clear and pristine, and together with the vast natural landscape, the whole view was so beautiful that it made me feel calm. In summer, you can also take a sightseeing boat and admire Lake Shikotsu's beauty from a different angle.
I really like places like this, far from the hustle and bustle of the city, where simply looking at the scenery feels so soothing. It's just that this trip was too rushed, and my stay was far too short. I had to leave before I'd seen enough.

Märchen Hill (Hokkaido)

Located along Route 39, the scenic road from Memanbetsu Airport to Abashiri City, Märchen Hill stretches along a 3-kilometer straight section of road with stunning views. This popular viewpoint was also used as a filming location for Akira Kurosawa’s movie Dreams.

• Shiretoko and Abashiri and Kitami and Monbetsu
• Nature Spots

On the way from Abashiri to Memanbetsu Airport, I unexpectedly came across this scenery that made me want to stop.
The rolling hills and open fields, paired with Hokkaido's expansive sky, make it feel like stepping into a fairy-tale world—simple yet full of charm.
There's a convenient parking lot here, making it a nice place to stop along the way, take some photos, enjoy the scenery, and experience the relaxing and soothing atmosphere of the Hokkaido countryside.
You don't need to set aside much time. Even a brief stop lets you take in a beautiful Hokkaido landscape.

Miyazaki Jingu Shrine

This shrine is the crown jewel of Miyazaki, and it worships the first Emperor Jimmu. Alongside the emperor, his parents, the god Ugayafuki-Aezu-no-Mikoto, and goddess Tamayorimi-Himenokoto is worshiped. Visitors pray to the altars in hope for being successful in education, business, and maternity. The festivals in October is dubbed “Jimmu-sama”, and is attended by many.

• Miyazaki
• Shrines & Temples

Visiting Miyazaki Jingu Shrine really feels like stepping into a shrine in the middle of a forest. It enshrines Emperor Jimmu, Japan's first emperor, and his parents, so it has long been a popular shrine where locals pray for marital harmony, a safe delivery, their children's well-being, success on exams, and victory. Walking along the approach lined with towering cedar trees, you naturally slow down, surrounded by the pleasant scent of the forest.
If you're visiting Miyazaki, I recommend taking some time to stop by. It's not just about worshiping; it feels more like a walk through the forest, where you can experience Miyazaki's most relaxed and historic side.

Lake Ikeda

Located in the southeastern part of the Satsuma Peninsula, Lake Ikeda is the largest lake in Kyushu, boasting a circumference of 15 km and a depth of 233 meters. Formed over 5,000 years ago through volcanic activity, it took shape after six major eruptions in the surrounding area, eventually becoming the caldera lake it is today.

• Kagoshima
• Nature Spots

I was really looking forward to capturing the dreamy view of blue skies over Lake Ikeda with Mount Kaimon, the “Satsuma Fuji,” in the background. Unfortunately, the weather didn’t cooperate, and it was cloudy the entire time. Still, Lake Ikeda was very appealing! It’s one of the largest lakes in Kyushu and a crater lake formed by a volcanic eruption more than 5,000 years ago. The lake is incredibly vast, and walking along the shore was very relaxing. Although there was no sunshine, the lake had a peaceful quality that gave it a different kind of charm.

HUIS TEN BOSCH

This is the largest theme park in Japan, with beautiful European-like cityscapes and a canal that leads to the sea. The park is decorated with seasonal flowers and illuminations and has a wide range of the latest attractions. The park is also filled with excitement and a moving experience through a variety of events.

• Nagasaki
• Amusement Parks & Theme parks

Coming to HUIS TEN BOSCH really feels like being transported to Europe in an instant. The park is huge, and everywhere you go there are fairy-tale streetscapes, canals, castles, and fields of flowers. Every corner is photogenic, and every picture looks like a postcard. There are also plenty of rides and attractions. Even after spending the whole day there, it still felt like there was more to do.
The only slight disappointment was that it was cloudy that day. With blue skies, fields of flowers, and European-style buildings, the photos would definitely have looked even dreamier and felt more like a European vacation. But looking at it another way, the cloudy weather made it less hot and sunny while walking around, and I still took tons of beautiful photos!
If I get the chance, I'll definitely come back on a clear, sunny day and capture HUIS TEN BOSCH at its most beautiful.

Kyushu Railway History Museum

Located in the Mojiko Retro District, this railroad museum is housed in a Meiji-era red brick building that was the former headquarters of Kyushu Railway Company. The museum exhibits old rolling stock, uniforms of past station staff, and railroad equipment, and is fun not only for railroad fans but also for the whole family.

• Kitakyushu
• Museums

If you're planning to visit Mojiko, the Kyushu Railway History Museum is definitely worth stopping by! Even if you're not a railroad fan, you'll still find yourself having a great time exploring it.
The museum is housed in a renovated red-brick building from the Meiji era, giving it a historic, retro feel. It was also once the headquarters of the Kyushu Railway Company. As soon as you enter, you can experience the story of Kyushu's railways through trains from different eras, station uniforms, and all kinds of railroad equipment.
My favorite part was the train-driving simulator. It felt incredibly realistic, letting you experience driving a train from Mojiko Station as if you were the conductor! There's also an exhibit featuring the classic Tsubame train, which is a major highlight for many railroad fans.
The museum includes the main building, a rolling stock exhibition area, a mini railway park, and a locomotive display area. Adults can revisit railway history, while kids can have a great time. It's a great place for the whole family to explore at a leisurely pace and take photos. If you're visiting the Mojiko Retro District, be sure to add it to your itinerary. It's more interesting than you might expect!

Oasis 21

The Oasis 21 is famous for its symbolic glass roof, also known as the “Spaceship-Aqua ”. The facility has a bus terminal and is also connected to the subway and the Meitetsu line .Located within the heart of Nagoya city, the facility is known to be a photogenic location due to the illuminations lighting up the skyline.

• Nagoya
• Commercial Buildings

This was my first visit to Oasis 21. I thought it was just a transit hub, but it completely blew me away at night!
The glass roof, known as the “Spaceship-Aqua,” is truly unique. You can stroll across it while enjoying nighttime views of the entire Sakae area. Once the lights come on, the nearby Nagoya TV Tower lights up too, creating a gorgeous scene. Even casual phone shots turn out great. I recommend visiting around sunset so you can experience both the daytime and nighttime atmosphere. It’s definitely worth adding to your Nagoya itinerary.