謝美芳's Reviews

🌿 World Heritage Site・Sakitsu Village

First, I saw the commemorative marker for the “Hidden Christian Sites in the Nagasaki and Amakusa Region” World Heritage Site.

On a quiet afternoon, I strolled through the sparsely populated World Heritage Site of Sakitsu Village. There was no bustling commercial district or crowd of people, so I could take my time observing the houses, streets, and residents’ daily lives.

Sakitsu Village weaves together faith, history, traditional homes, mountains, and the sea.

Christianity went through a period when it was banned. The older guides told stories about this fishing village and how the faith continued to live on here.

A quiet little place where you can walk slowly, look around at your own pace, and take in the stories that remain here.

“Take part in a famous life, enjoy life”〜

First stop on our Kyushu trip: Yachiyoza in Yamaga (やちよざ)

We visited this famous century-old kabuki theater, whose architecture combines Edo-period wooden construction with a Western-style structure using German rails. The biggest highlight on the ceiling is undoubtedly the nostalgic advertisements left by sponsors from the Meiji period. Together with the traditional tatami seating and traditional stage lift, they create a wonderfully nostalgic atmosphere.

We were very lucky that there was no performance on the day of our visit, so we were able to personally explore the mechanisms beneath the stage. Guided by an experienced docent, we listened as he calmly recounted the theater's ups and downs and stories over the past century. It made the visit feel like more than just a quick look around—it was more like a journey across time and space, engaging in a heartfelt conversation with history.

〜“Participate in Mingsheng, enjoy life”〜

Aso Shrine (阿蘓神社, Aso Jinja)

A solemn and majestic shrine. The approach runs sideways through a retro-style shopping street. Passing through the Romon Gate and bowing with your hands together before the worship hall, you can truly experience the resilient and tranquil power of this 2,500-year-old shrine amid today's technology and prosperity.

Strolling along the main approach and visiting with a sense of nostalgia, a goshuin gives worshippers a devout memento while they pray for peace, success, happiness, and good health ^_^

“Take part in a meaningful life and enjoy life”

Amakusa Dolphin Center (天草イルカセンター)

Under a blue sky and over a clear blue sea, we set sail with a mix of excitement and nervousness, riding the wind and waves in search of adorable dolphins swimming freely.

Full of anticipation, we eagerly looked around. Before long, enthusiastic cheers rang out—pods of dolphins had already appeared before our eyes! Their streamlined bodies surfaced, revealing lively, graceful dorsal fins amid splashing water.

The healthy marine environment and thriving ecosystem have created this breathtaking scenery, allowing wild dolphins to live freely here. This dolphin-watching trip in Amakusa not only let us enjoy the beauty of nature but also left us with countless surprises and deeply moving moments. It was undoubtedly one of the most treasured pages of our trip to Amakusa!

〜“Join Meisheng, Enjoy Life”〜

Nagabeta Kaishoro (ながべたかいしょうろ),

The statue of Jinbe, Knight of the Sea, is located right near the famous sight of utility poles standing in the sea. The statue sits cross-legged, conveying the steady, bold presence of a helmsman. The utility poles in the sea create excellent leading lines for casual photos. At low tide, the shimmering reflections on the wetlands on both sides are very beautiful. The towering palm trees and Jinbe on the ground create a striking contrast in height, and with the vast blue sky and distant mountains, the overall atmosphere feels relaxed and carefree~

The meaning of travel is nothing more than “participate in a famous life, enjoy life” ✨

Takachiho Railway Bridge (高千穂鉄橋): The biggest highlight of the trip. As the open-air train with no roof overlooks the panoramic valley and mountain scenery, dreamy bubbles suddenly appear. Projections and music in the illuminated tunnel make this place different from anywhere else. Send a postcard to bring the beautiful scenery home, and look forward to being a traveler again: “Take part in life, enjoy life.”

Admire the beauty of Takachiho while rowing a small boat through the lush gorge of the Gokase River. You can also walk along the trails and enjoy the fresh forest air. Riding the little open-air train lets you take in the mountains, forests, and countryside amid the bubble-filled gorge. There are beautiful surprises everywhere, making this place feel like a fairyland. The remarkable contours here showcase nature's craftsmanship.

I fell in love with the beauty of Mameda Town. Despite the blazing sun, its charming old-fashioned streets felt especially peaceful beneath the blue sky and white clouds.

Hita yokan, century-old soy sauce and miso, and wooden geta sandals are must-try souvenirs. Against the backdrop of white-plastered walls, it’s easy to imagine the Edo-period townhouses and the dedication of their artisans. It feels like stepping into a painting from history. These wonderful memories and reflections are the most precious treasures of any journey ^_^

I love the beauty of the mountain mist, and the sound of the flowing stream felt like it was welcoming us. After soaking in the natural riverside hot spring, I felt completely refreshed and healed. If you’re looking to explore a hidden gem, this place is perfect. This hot spring village is waiting for us to enjoy the beauty of nature together ^_^