Ming Yu's Reviews Page 6/20

Suizenji Jojuen Garden

It is a stroll garden with spring water that Tadatoshi, the first lord of the Hosokawa clan, created after building a teahouse here where subsoil water from the Aso Mountains gushed forth. Tsunatoshi, the third lord of the Hosokawa clan, later created a large-scale garden that was named "Jojuen" after a poem by Tao Yuanming.

Kumamoto
Parks & Gardens

4 Oct 2026 See More

A visit to Suizenji Jojuen Garden, one of Kumamoto’s best-known attractions. As soon as I entered, I was captivated by the beautiful Momoyama-style Japanese strolling garden! Water flowing underground from Aso is cleverly channeled into the central spring-fed pond, and there is even an elaborate miniature Mount Fuji beside it. While strolling along the paths, you can admire the Fuji-like landscaping and beautiful views of the water and hills, as well as visit the solemn Izumi Shrine and the tunnel of vermilion torii gates at Izumi Inari Shrine. The entire garden has a peaceful atmosphere filled with historic charm. It’s an incredibly beautiful and refreshing place that you definitely shouldn’t miss in Kumamoto!

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

4 Oct 2026 See More

A pilgrimage to Kumamon Square in Kumamoto! As soon as you enter, you’re welcomed by an adorable statue of Director Kumamon at the entrance. His shiny black body and signature red cheeks are incredibly charming. Inside, you can see the director’s office, along with plenty of exclusive Kumamon merchandise and special sweets. If you’re lucky and time your visit well, you can even see Director Kumamon perform in person. It’s a popular photo spot that you definitely shouldn’t miss on an independent trip to Kumamoto!

Yanagawa River Boating

Yanagawa, also known as the city of water, is located in the south of Fukuoka Prefecture. Here you’ll find old-world streetscapes that still keep the lattice-like waterways from the Edo period. When you’re here, the absolute must-see is the inter-city river boating experience. No matter what season, you’re guaranteed for a fun and relaxing time as the boat captain serenades and shares stories around the area.

Yanagawa, Okawa, Omuta
Ships

4 Oct 2026 See More

We came to Yanagawa in Fukuoka, Kyushu, to ride the famous wooden boat on the “kawakudari” river cruise! Sitting in the boat as it drifted along the old moat, we enjoyed the shade of the lush trees on both sides and the very peaceful, pleasant scenery.

Wakamatsuya Specialty Eel Cuisine

Founded in the late Edo period, this long-established eel restaurant is nestled along the picturesque Okinohata waterfront in Yanagawa, a town known for its canals. For nearly 160 years, Wakamatsuya has preserved its time-honored flavors, attracting loyal customers from all over Japan.

Yanagawa, Okawa, Omuta
Japanese Cuisine

4 Oct 2026 See More

We came to Yanagawa, Fukuoka, to try the famous steamed eel rice! The restaurant places rice topped with its secret sauce in a wooden steamer, adds grilled eel and shredded egg, and steams everything together. The moment the wooden lid is opened, the aroma fills the air. The golden shredded egg and beautifully glazed eel look incredibly tempting.

Nara Park

Nara Park is a scenic area surrounded by historical and cultural treasures, including Kasuga Taisha Shrine, Kohfukuji Temple, Todaiji Temple, the Nara National Museum, and Shoso-in. Visitors can enjoy the breathtaking natural beauty of its expansive greenery while exploring these iconic landmarks. The park is located in the center of the city, making it easily accessible to various tourist spots.

Nara
Parks & Gardens

28 Sep 2026 See More

When feeding the deer crackers, remember to hold on to them securely, and keep an eye on the deer around you so you aren't startled by their sudden enthusiasm. I highly recommend setting aside half a day to walk around here. It's a spot near Osaka where both adults and children can have a great time!

Todaiji Temple

In the Nara period (710-794), Emperor Shomu had the Rushana Daibutsu (Great Buddha) built at his request, and a memorial service was held in 752. This temple is one of the representative temples of Nara. It took nearly 40 years to build the temple complex.

Nara
Shrines & Temples

28 Sep 2026 See More

As one of the world's largest wooden structures, the Great Buddha Hall has a historic atmosphere, with its wooden pillars and Buddhist statues conveying a deep sense of history. Walking through it instantly makes you feel calm.

Hanamikoji-dori Street

Hanami-koji Street is a main street crossing Gion north to south from Sanjo to Kenninji Temple. It is “koji” (small alley), but the street is wide and lively with lots of stores hosting many tourists. The Teahouse district still maintains the traditional ambience in the district from Shijo-dori to the south. The original teahouses were on Shijo-dori and to the north of it, which were gathered to the current southern district in Meiji and Taisho Periods.

Gion, Higashiyama, Yamashina
Famous Places

28 Sep 2026 See More

Walking along Kyoto's Hanamikoji-dori Street, you'll see well-preserved wooden machiya townhouses and reddish lattice windows on both sides. The stone-paved street is filled with the nostalgic atmosphere of the ancient capital, making it feel as though you've traveled back in time to old Japan.

Kobe Port Tower

Rising over Kobe Harbor, this port tower is known as the “Beauty of the Iron Tower” for its graceful hyperboloid shape-like an elongated drum-and its vivid red exterior. Loved by locals as a symbol of Kobe since its debut in 1973 (1963), it reopened after Approx. 2.5 years of seismic reinforcement and renovation, with a grand renewal in April 2024.

Kobe
Observatories

28 Sep 2026 See More

Taking a walk around the harbor in the afternoon or evening while enjoying the sea breeze is very pleasant. At sunset, the colors of the sky complement the harbor beautifully, and every casual photo looks like a postcard. The atmosphere is quite romantic.

CUPNOODLES MUSEUM YOKOHAMA

Through the museum’s many exhibits you can learn about the creative thinking of Momofuku Ando, the founder of Nissin Food products, and inventor of Chicken Ramen, the world’s first instant noodles.

Yokohama
Museums

28 Sep 2026 See More

Not only are the exhibits great for photos, but you can also make your own original Cup Noodles. I highly recommend adding this to your independent travel itinerary. Both adults and families with children can have a great time here!

Kaiyukan

Celebrating its 35th anniversary in 2025, this aquarium is located in Osaka. The aquarium, which recreates the natural environment surrounding the Pacific Ocean, is home to a total of 620 species and 30,000 living things.

Osaka Port, Bay Area
Zoos & Aquariums

28 Sep 2026 See More

This area recreates the frigid environment of the Arctic Circle. As soon as you walk in, you can feel the chilly atmosphere and take in the striking visuals. Watching the seals up close from beneath the tank is one of the most memorable views in the entire aquarium.