一個漸漸喜歡上慢旅的人's Reviews Page 19/21

Kamikochi, said to be a place every Japanese person should visit once in their lifetime, can be explored starting with a hike from Taisho Pond.
Taisho Pond was formed when an eruption of Mount Yake caused sediment to build up in the Azusa River. Dead trees stand in the mirror-like water, creating an ethereal and mysterious atmosphere.

I recommend visiting early in the morning, when there are fewer tourists and the air is especially crisp. If you visit when the area opens in late April, the distant mountaintops are still covered with lingering snow. As you stroll along the riverside trail, you can see snow-covered Mount Yake perfectly reflected in the shimmering waters of Taisho Pond—an unforgettable, pristine sight.

On the way to Kappa Bridge, consider taking a short detour onto the less crowded boardwalk at Tashiro Pond. The shallow water is crystal clear, and the wetlands are rich in wildlife. It's a peaceful escape from the crowds, with a tranquil atmosphere distinct from Taisho Pond.

Located midway along the hiking trail, Kappa Bridge is the spiritual landmark of Kamikochi. This all-wood suspension bridge spans the crystal-clear Azusa River, with the magnificent Hotaka mountain range rising behind it. The clear turquoise water, mountain scenery, and reflections create a fairy-tale view.

Before reaching Kappa Bridge, find a bench beside the trail and sit down to enjoy some rich local yogurt and Shinshu cheese while gazing at the snowy mountains and stream. If you're lucky, you may even see wild Japanese macaques playing and wading along the riverbank. After a long walk, don't miss the popular Trois Cinq by the bridge on the opposite bank. Order its signature Shinshu apple pie, baked golden and crisp, with rich ice cream. The large pieces of Shinshu apple are sweet, tart, and juicy—the most relaxing treat after a hike.

The Shinhotaka Ropeway is Japan's only double-decker ropeway, carrying travelers up to a spectacular height of more than 2,000 meters above sea level. As the ropeway slowly climbs, the majestic ridgelines of the Northern Alps unfold before your eyes, with each season revealing completely different scenery.

Once you reach the mountaintop observation deck at Nishi-Hotakaguchi Station, the unobstructed 360-degree panoramic view is breathtaking. Don't forget to buy a rich matcha ice cream at the summit, sit down, and quietly gaze at the rolling sea of clouds and endless mountains while taking in the tranquility far from the crowds and the vast beauty of nature.

Hida Takayama has long been known as “Little Kyoto.” It prospered during the Edo period thanks to its woodworking craftsmanship and commerce under direct shogunate control, and its old streets have fully preserved their rustic appearance, with traditional black wooden lattice windows.

Strolling through the old streets, you’ll find unique craft shops everywhere. Sake breweries display round sugidama cedar balls outside, signaling that new sake is ready and inviting visitors in to taste the smooth sake. Freshly grilled senbei are crisp and fragrant, while Takayama miso, brewed using traditional methods, is a must-buy souvenir.

When you’re tired from exploring, I personally recommend visiting the long-established Suzuya (寿々や). In its rustic, cozy atmosphere, enjoy a steaming pot of Hida beef shabu-shabu. The beautifully marbled beef melts in your mouth after a quick swish through the broth, warming both your heart and stomach during your trip.

Stepping into Takayama Jin-ya feels like traveling back through centuries of history. It is also the only Edo-period magistrate's office in Japan that remains fully preserved today. After the shogunate placed Hida under its direct control, this became the central institution overseeing politics, taxation, and judicial matters, bearing witness to the disciplined government culture of the Edo period.

Inside the jin-ya, glimpses of history are everywhere: the impressive main hall reflects the authority officials once held; traces of interrogations and old instruments of punishment offer insight into the Edo-period judicial system; and Japan's largest and oldest surviving onkura rice storehouse tells the story of storing rice collected as annual tribute.
One highlight during your visit is the makimuki usagi nail covers on the beams and pillars, which symbolize protection from fire and evil. Don't forget to look for them—the craftsmanship and ingenuity are evident in every detail.

If you like quieter small cities, I recommend Tajimi, just about a half-hour train ride from Nagoya. The moment I stepped off the train, I fully felt the charm of this historic pottery town, far from the hustle and bustle and filled with a relaxed atmosphere. It has long been one of Japan's major pottery centers and is known nationwide for Mino ware, a tradition passed down for a thousand years. Its deep-rooted craftsmanship can be felt throughout the streets and alleys.

Besides strolling along the historic Honmachi Oribe Street and browsing the tasteful pottery shops lining both sides, you can feel the artisans' dedication everywhere.
When you get tired, enjoy fragrant soba noodles or charcoal-grilled eel over rice at the century-old restaurant Unagi no Uoseki. In the afternoon, stop by Kissahishiya Bunguten, which combines stationery with a retro space, for coffee and experience the pottery town's unique slow pace and cultural charm.
It's a small town with a rich cultural heritage that's worth visiting.

Atsuta Jingu is located in Nagoya and has a history spanning more than a thousand years. It is one of Japan's most revered and important shrines, famous for enshrining the Kusanagi-no-Tsurugi, one of the Three Sacred Treasures. The shrine grounds are filled with towering ancient trees and have a quiet, solemn atmosphere, making it an important sacred place of worship for Japanese people.

If you happen to see the “sacred chickens” strolling leisurely along the wooded paths during your visit, don't forget to pay your respects. They are regarded as messengers of the gods and are said to bring good luck to those who encounter them.

After your visit, don't miss the smooth, pleasantly chewy specialty udon and traditional sweets served at the teahouse surrounded by shade trees within the shrine grounds. This is also one of the birthplaces of the lucky charm known as the “Inuhariko.” Choose a charming Inuhariko to take home—not only is it said to ward off evil and misfortune, but it can also protect your home and keep your whole family safe.

An absolute must for Ghibli fans. From central Nagoya, Ghibli Park is about an hour away by subway (Linimo) or direct sightseeing bus.

For your first visit, if you want to fully enjoy the main attractions, I recommend buying the O-Sanpo Day Pass Standard and taking your time to appreciate all the thoughtful details. When booking your entry time for Ghibli's Grand Warehouse, I suggest choosing an afternoon slot. The morning crowds have usually thinned out considerably by then, making it more comfortable and relaxing to take photos and explore the exhibits. You can spend the morning strolling leisurely through Valley of Witches and Hill of Youth, then visit the Grand Warehouse in the afternoon to take a photo with No-Face and watch a short film. This makes for the most comfortable experience.

Manzamo is one of Okinawa's most iconic scenic spots. Its name comes from King Sho Kei of the Ryukyu Kingdom, who praised it in the 18th century as “a field (mo) spacious enough to seat ten thousand people.” It is famous for its iconic natural elephant trunk-shaped coral cliff and magnificent ocean views.
A highlight is the capsule toy machines inside the building, where you can get unique handmade ceramic capsule toys with a local touch. If you have an Okinawa FunPASS, you can also stop by the restaurant on the second floor to redeem a refreshing drink—enjoy the view and relax all at once!

Neo Park Okinawa in Nago is a super relaxing family destination! Besides riding a retro train around the park, you can get up close and feed flocks of waterfowl and other cute animals in the huge aviary. Don't miss the park's hugely popular, adorably goofy red pandas. If the summer heat gets to you, you can escape to the indoor cafe and dining area, relax in the air conditioning with a meal, and watch the adorable red pandas and other animals up close!