王小鈞's Reviews Page 12/25

Gero Hot Springs (Gero Onsen)

The historic hot spring “Gero Onsen” is said to have been discovered in the Engi era (901-923) and the Tenryaku era (947-957). During the Edo period, a Confucian scholar who served the Tokugawa family, Hayashi Razan, noted the hot spring as one of "the three famous springs in Japan," alongside Arima Onsen in Hyogo Prefecture and Kusatsu Onsen in Gunma Prefecture.

• Gifu
• Hot Springs & Hot Spring Resorts

Even Oda Nobunaga loved coming to soak in this hot spring, so of course I had to try it too!
Gero Onsen isn’t just rich in history—the water feels so soothing that after soaking, all I wanted to do was zone out. Strolling through the onsen town, grabbing a few snacks, then relaxing in a warm bath... this is exactly the kind of happy travel rhythm I love. No wonder it’s firmly ranked as one of Japan’s three famous hot springs. It’s definitely worth experiencing at least once!

Mt. Inasayama Observatory

At 333m above sea level, this observatory stands at the top of Mt. Inasayama at the center of Nagasaki City. The observatory with a cafe and restaurant offers a view over Nagasaki Bay, Unzen, Amakusa and Goto Islands.

• Nagasaki
• Observatories

If you come to Nagasaki, you definitely shouldn’t miss Mt. Inasayama Observatory! Take the ropeway up to the 333-meter summit, and you’ll be greeted with a stunning 360-degree view.
During the day, you can see Nagasaki Bay, Unzen, Amakusa, and the Goto Islands in the distance. At night, it becomes truly breathtaking, with countless lights spread across the mountains and sea like jewels scattered over the earth.
No wonder Nagasaki’s night view was once chosen as one of the “New Three Great Night Views of the World.” Sitting at the observatory with a gentle breeze, watching the whole city slowly light up, I honestly couldn’t help thinking, “This trip was absolutely worth it!”

Kumamon Square

Kumamon is the mascot of Kumamoto and cutely named as such the Prefecture’s Sales and Happiness Manager. You can find him all across Kumamoto, pointing out some of its best attractions. He’s so popular that Kumamon related merchandise is said to be reaching a cumulative total of 1 trillion yen. At this spot you’ll find the office of this amazing mascot, and if you time it just right, you might even get a chance to meet him.

• Kumamoto
• Tourist Attractions

Kumamon isn’t just cute—he actually has the official title of “Sales and Happiness Manager of Kumamoto Prefecture”!
When you visit Kumamon Square, you have to stop by the manager’s office for a photo, sit at his desk, and check out his trophies and “workday” routine. If you happen to catch Kumamon on duty, you can watch him perform up close and take photos together. The cuteness level is off the charts!
And don’t forget to browse the limited-edition merch at the end. You may say you’re only buying one thing, but you’ll probably walk out with a big bag.

Kasugataisha Shrine

At the beginning of the Nara period, Takemikazuchi-no-mikoto is said to have ridden on sacred deer from Kashima in Ibaraki Prefecture to Mt. Mikasa to protect Heijo-kyo and promote national prosperity.

• Nara
• Shrines & Temples

Kasugataisha Shrine really has a magical feel. As soon as you step onto the approach, the stone lanterns and forest scenery create such a relaxing atmosphere.
The most fun part is that after just a short walk, deer will come over like they’re “on patrol.” They’re not afraid of people at all, and they definitely know how to find the camera!
Besides praying at the shrine, don’t forget to take a photo with Nara’s little deer. Just remember, they’ll be checking to see if you have deer crackers in your hand. Put your things away after the photo, or they’ll be even more enthusiastic than you are!

Kinkaku-ji

During the Muromachi Period, the 3rd Ashikaga shogun, Yoshimitsu, made an abode in this temple called Kitayamadono. It was named as Rokuon-ji after the posthumous name of Yoshimitsu. He had also built Shokoku-ji Temple, and Rokuon-ji, his retirement home, was turned into a branch temple of Shokoku-ji.

• Kyoto
• Shrines & Temples

Kinkaku-ji is so beautiful it looks like it has a filter on, but it’s a real historic landmark!
It was originally the luxurious residence “Kitayama-dono” of Ashikaga Yoshimitsu, the third shogun of the Muromachi shogunate, and was later converted into a temple. Its official name is actually Rokuon-ji. The name most people know, “Kinkaku-ji,” comes from the glittering gold-leaf reliquary hall.
Once you enter the grounds, the sight of the Golden Pavilion reflected on Kyoko-chi Pond is so stunning you can’t help but keep taking photos. No wonder almost everyone visiting Kyoto puts this place on their must-see list!

Tsurugajo Castle

The castle is a cherry blossom viewing spot and the symbol of Aizu Wakamatsu City. Its official name is Wakamatsu Castle, and it is also sometimes called Aizu Castle or Aizu Wakamatsu Castle. The castle tower, the only one in Japan covered with red tiles, preserves the beautiful appearance of the castle in the feudal era.

• Fukushima
• Tourist Attractions

Tsurugajo Castle in winter has a quiet, charming beauty.
The white snow covering Japan’s only red-tiled castle tower creates a completely different scene from summer or cherry blossom season. Walking through the castle grounds feels like traveling back 500 years to the Aizu era, and every angle has so much character.
It may be cold, but the view is absolutely worth it. If you visit Fukushima, this classic castle definitely deserves a place in your memories!

JR Tadami Line

The JR Tadami Line runs for 135,2km between Aizuwakamatsu Station in Fukushima and Koide Station in Niigata. It runs through the Tadami River valley in the deep mountains, providing beautiful seasonal scenery from the train windows, including cherry blossoms in spring, greenery in summer, autumn leaves in autumn, and snow in winter.

• Fukushima
• Niigata
• Trains & Subway

Riding the JR Tadami Line in winter is truly as beautiful as a movie scene. The train passes through snowy valleys, with a silvery white world filling the windows. Every time it turned a corner, I couldn’t help but grab my phone and take tons of photos.
Even though it’s a small local railway, it hides some of Japan’s most stunning scenery. Ride it once and you’ll understand why people say it’s a must-do in your lifetime!

Hirosaki City Apple Park

This park is approximately 9.7 hectares with a panoramic view of Mt. Iwaki and is planted with approximately 2,300 apples of 80 varieties. In the Experience Garden, visitors can experience flower picking, fruit picking, and other work, and can also freely walk along the garden paths. They can also pick apples from August to November with a fee.

• Aomori
• Parks & Gardens

How could you visit Aomori and not go apple picking? Picking an apple straight from the tree and eating it right away was amazing. It was crisp, juicy, and so sweet I almost wondered if sugar had been added.
Picking and eating along the way was so much fun, I couldn’t stop. It’s also one of the most Aomori-style travel memories you can have!

Kanemori Red Brick Warehouse Hakodate History Plaza

Built in 1909 (Meiji 42), the Kanemori warehouses played a major role in the development of shipping in Hakodate Port. Hakodate History Plaza is a valuable facility that preserves the building’s original character, from its beautiful English-bond red brick exterior to the cypress pillars supporting the high ceilings.

• Hakodate and Matsumae
• Commercial Buildings

I originally thought it was just a red brick warehouse, but once I stepped inside, it had way more character than I expected. The Meiji-era architecture has been preserved, and walking around while taking photos really sets the mood. It feels like you’re looking at a piece of Hakodate’s history.
There are quite a few shops inside now, so you can take your time browsing. It’s great for photos and souvenir shopping all in one, and it’s perfect for spending an afternoon.

Hakodate Meiji-kan

The Bay Area is a popular tourist destination in Hakodate. The Hakodate Meiji-kan is a commercial facility located in one section of the bay area, where you can find stores selling products perfect for Hakodate souvenirs.

• Hakodate and Matsumae
• Commercial Buildings

Hakodate Meiji-kan is definitely worth adding to your itinerary! ❤️
The red brick building has so much character, and stepping inside feels like traveling back to the Meiji era. Every corner is photogenic. Inside, you’ll find music boxes, glass crafts, Hokkaido-exclusive items, and all kinds of souvenirs. Before you know it, your wallet may quietly give in.
If you’re strolling around the Hakodate Bay Area, don’t rush off. Leave some time to explore Meiji-kan at a relaxed pace. You can shop for souvenirs and take great photos all in one visit. It’s absolutely the kind of place that makes you want to come back.