Ming Yu's Reviews Page 2/3

Matsushima

One of Three Great Views of Japan along with Kyoto’s Amanohashidate and Hiroshima’s Miyajima. The grand horizon of the Pacific Ocean and large and small 260 verdant islands have been attracting many visitors since the Heian Period.

• Miyagi
• Nature Spots

Visiting Matsushima, one of Japan's Three Great Views, and taking a sightseeing cruise is definitely the most classic and ultimate experience! As the boat glides across the calm sea, rocky islands of various sizes dotted with green pine trees gradually appear on both sides. Natural wonders such as Niojima and Kanejima are right before your eyes, creating a scene like a moving ink-wash painting.
Standing by the railing with the breeze on your face, you can fully take in Matsushima Bay's unique tranquility and magnificent scenery. Whether it's your first visit to Tohoku or you want an up-close experience of historic landmarks blending with spectacular natural scenery, this cruise is an exciting highlight you shouldn't miss!

Chuson-ji Temple

Chuson-ji Temple, founded in 850 AD, owns over 3,000 national treasures and important cultural properties and is also registered as a World Heritage site. This temple was built to transmit the powerful wish to comfort the spirits of those killed in the Tohoku War, no matter which side they were on.

• Iwate
• Shrines & Temples

Visiting the World Heritage Site of Chuson-ji Temple, I was deeply captivated as soon as I entered the grounds by the towering ancient trees and peaceful, historic atmosphere! Strolling up Tsukimizaka, you can visit Fudodo Hall and the solemn Jizo statues along the way. From higher up, you can also look out over the vast, green countryside of Hiraizumi, bringing a deep sense of peace to both body and mind.
Visiting the iconic Konjikido Hall and Sankozo Museum, I was amazed to see the ultimate golden splendor and rich history of the Heian period firsthand. It was truly impressive! After getting tired from walking, buy a rich and flavorful limited-edition soft-serve ice cream beside the main approach and enjoy it while taking in the forest air. It's a perfect trip combining culture, beautiful scenery, and delicious food!

Oga Aquarium GAO

Along the west coast of Oga Peninsula, there is an aquarium where you can meet fish in the sea of Oga and other popular ocean creatures.

• Akita
• Zoos & Aquariums

Located on the Akita coast, Oga Aquarium GAO is a fantastic attraction combining magnificent ocean views with an abundance of marine life! As soon as you enter, you'll be drawn to the aquarium's star animals. You can see adorable polar bears playing and moving around by the water up close, as well as a whole group of endearingly clumsy penguins gathered on the rocks preening themselves. They're incredibly soothing to watch.
The aquarium sits right next to the Sea of Japan, and outside you can look directly out over the vast blue sea and spectacular rocky coastline. The coastal scenery under the blue sky and white clouds is truly refreshing. Whether you're visiting with children or simply want to quietly enjoy the ocean and watch polar marine animals, this place is well worth adding to your Oga Peninsula itinerary!

Oga Shinzan Folklore Museum・Namahage Museum

”Oga no Namahage" is a traditional event of the Oga Peninsula, designated as a nationally important intangible folk cultural property and registered as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage. On the evening of New Year's Eve, people say, "Any lazy people out there? Any crybaby out there?" and walk from house to house to warn people of their misdeeds.

• Akita
• Museums

A visit to the Namahage Museum on Akita's Oga Peninsula is definitely a powerful cultural experience! The most spectacular part is the display of more than 100 uniquely designed Namahage masks and figures from communities throughout Oga. Seeing them up close gives you a deep appreciation for the intricacy and imposing presence of this traditional craftsmanship.
In addition to demonstrations of artisans carving masks on-site, the museum also provides a detailed introduction to the history of Namahage culture as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage. From the classic figures holding knives and wooden buckets to the precious antique handmade masks, everything inspires awe for this traditional folk custom of praying for protection from disaster and a bountiful harvest. It's well worth experiencing in person!

Lake Tazawa

Lake Tazawa is the deepest lake in Japan at 423.4m deep. The lake, with its breathtakingly beautiful cobalt blue surface, is a scenic spot in Akita Prefecture, selected as one of the 100 most scenic spots in Japan. In 2022, the moon rising over Lake Tazawa will be recognized as one of Japan's 100 Most Beautiful Moons, adding even more charm to the lake.

• Akita
• Nature Spots

At Lake Tazawa, Japan's deepest lake with its lapis-blue waters, seeing the golden flying Tatsuko statue standing beside the clear lake, backed by layers of distant mountains, creates a poetic and legendary scene. Stroll along the lakeshore and visit the elegant, historic Gozanoishi Shrine, where old stone lanterns complement the tranquil lake and mountain scenery.
You can also buy fish food near the shrine and enjoy feeding the fish, experiencing the purity and vitality of the lake up close. Whether you stop to admire the vivid blue water or immerse yourself in the mysterious atmosphere of its legends, Lake Tazawa's natural beauty is truly refreshing!

Akita Nairiku Jukan Tetsudo (Akita Inland Railway)

This railway literally goes across Akita’s inland, connecting almost 94.2km between Takanosu and Kakunodate Stations. The route is along Japan’s traditional local scenery and its beauty puts smiles on locals and tourists. Thus, the name “Smile Rail” for this popular railroad.

• Akita
• Trains & Subway

Riding the Akita Inland Railway is a soothing train journey filled with beautiful scenery! At the platform, you're greeted by an adorable Crayon Shin-chan Family City photo board that brings out your inner child before you even board. Inside the train, the ceiling is covered with cute photos of Akita dogs, with warm and thoughtful touches everywhere.
As the train slowly moves along, vast green rice fields and mist-shrouded mountains unfold outside the windows, offering sweeping views of gorgeous countryside scenery. Whether you enjoy locally themed decorated trains or want to slow down and admire the natural scenery of northeastern Japan, the Akita Inland Line is definitely a classic experience not to be missed!

Samurai Residences in Kakunodate

In Kakunodate, part of the city of Semboku in Akita Prefecture, exists rows of old houses first attributed to the Ashina family in the early Edo period (around year 1620), that later flourished under the castle town of the Satake-Kita family. This district has been designated as protected in an effort to conserve traditional buildings.

• Akita
• Famous Places

Walking along the Samurai Residence Street in Kakunodate, Akita, feels like traveling back to the Edo period. Traditional black wooden fences and lush green trees line both sides of the street, looking even more peaceful and elegant after a light rain. Along the way, visit the Iwahashi Residence, a prefecturally designated historic site, and experience the history of a samurai home firsthand. Then stop by Hanajō-an, a directly operated store of the long-established Ando Jozo brewery, to sample classic flavors passed down locally. You can also find adorable Akita dog merchandise along the way, adding plenty of playfulness and fun to this historic stroll!

teamLab Borderless: MORI Building DIGITAL ART MUSEUM

teamLab Borderless is the globally sought-after name synonymous with digital technology-driven, hyper-creative immersive art spaces, now available to see after relocating from Odaiba to Azabudai Hills on February 9, 2024.

• Akasaka, Roppongi, Azabu-Juban
• Museums

teamLab Borderless: MORI Building DIGITAL ART MUSEUM at Azabudai Hills takes immersive light and visual art to the extreme! The museum completely breaks down the boundaries of space and maps, with light and imagery flowing and soaring across the walls and beneath your feet, making you feel as though you've stepped into a fantasy world. In addition to the classic giant waterfall of light and the flowers, birds, and animals moving through the darkness, the interactive area where you can draw sea creatures and project them onto the wall to swim freely is especially playful and full of surprises.
I especially recommend visiting EN TEA HOUSE! When a bowl of tea or ice cream is brought to the table, brilliant flowers slowly bloom inside it under the lights, extending the immersive experience to both sight and taste. Whether you're there to take photos or experience this stunning visual feast firsthand, it's definitely one of the most dreamlike highlights of any Tokyo itinerary!

Azabudai Hills

Azabudai Hills, is the megaplex hub that opened in Azabu in November 2023 with some 150 shops for fashion, culture, and unbeatable food across its floors. The central plaza and halls throughout feature fresh greenery and wide open, luxe vibes to bring you the best of dining and shopping.

• Akasaka, Roppongi, Azabu-Juban
• Commercial Buildings

Tokyo's new landmark, Azabudai Hills, perfectly blends modern architectural art with lush natural scenery. The soaring Mori JP Tower has an exceptionally grand and modern presence, creating a striking visual contrast with the nearby Reiyukai Shakaden, a uniquely shaped building resembling a black samurai. As you stroll through the complex, blooming pink and purple hydrangeas add romance and vitality to the refined urban lines.
Bringing together luxury shopping, art exhibitions, popular food, and green courtyards, this is an exciting new highlight for independent travelers in Tokyo, whether you want to experience a fashionable and luxurious atmosphere, admire cutting-edge architecture, or casually capture beautiful photos!

Karasumori Shrine

A shrine tucked away in an alley in Shinbashi’s drinking district, bustling with businesspeople at night, just a 2-minute walk from Shinbashi Station. It is said to have originated in a shrine founded in 940 by Fujiwara no Hidesato, who subdued the Taira no Masakado rebellion and followed the divine message of a white fox that appeared in his dream. Known for blessings for prosperous business and victory, it is especially popular with businesspeople in Shinbashi.

• Shimbashi, Toranomon, Tokyo Tower, Hamamatsucho
• Shrines & Temples

Tucked away in an alley in Shinbashi's bustling business district, Karasumori Shrine is a distinctive and peaceful sanctuary! As soon as you enter, you'll see vivid yellow flags and unique purple curtains, with modern architecture and traditional beliefs blending together perfectly. The shrine is best known for its wide selection of beautifully designed amulets and other sacred items. From colorful omamori to talismans for protection from cancer, family safety, career success, and safe travels, they all make you want to buy and treasure them.
Karasumori Shrine's colorful goshuin and unique four-color wish-granting fortunes (Negai-iro Mikuji) also draw many worshippers. Amid the businesslike streets of Shinbashi, this sacred corner offers peace of mind and blessings for victory and good health. I highly recommend stopping by to pray!