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Matsue Castle

Perched on a 29-meter tall hill in the flatlands near Shinji Lake, Matsue Castle was designated a Japanese national treasure in 2015. It was built some 400 years ago by Yoshiharu Horio, the lord of Izumo and Oki Provinces. The castle is sometimes nicknamed “Plover Castle” due to the castle gables resembling a plover bird with outstretched wings.

• Shimane
• Tourist Attractions

In the pleasant early-spring weather of May, I planned a special trip to Shimane to visit the national treasure Matsue Castle! The weather in Matsue in May was incredibly comfortable, with a gentle breeze carrying a slight chill. Lush greenery surrounded the castle and lined the moat, and together with the old-fashioned black exterior of the castle keep, the scene looked extremely elegant and magnificent.
As soon as I arrived at Matsue Castle, one of the few remaining original wooden castle keeps in Japan, the antique texture of the wood and traces of history inspired a deep sense of respect. I climbed the wooden stairs all the way to the observation deck on the top floor, and the expansive view was truly breathtaking! Not only could I take in the entire Matsue cityscape, but I could also see the sparkling waters of Lake Shinji. When the breeze blew through, I felt completely relaxed.
Best of all, it wasn't overly crowded in May, so strolling along the paths surrounded by the castle's stone walls and greenery was very leisurely and comfortable. After touring the castle keep, you can also take a Horikawa sightseeing boat nearby and enjoy a different view of the castle from the water. I highly recommend adding Matsue Castle to your San'in road trip or walking itinerary when the weather is pleasant in May. You'll definitely get to experience the most captivating side of Japanese history!

Gōshō Aoyama Manga Factory

This is a memorial museum for Gosho Aoyama, the original author of the popular comic "Detective Conan," which is published in 25 countries around the world. Born in Hokuei-cho, the museum displays various materials related to "Detective Conan" as well as the history of Aoyama from his childhood, university days, and career as a manga artist.

• Tottori
• Museums

While traveling in Tottori, I finally made a pilgrimage to the sacred place in the hearts of all Detective Conan fans—the Gōshō Aoyama Manga Factory! As soon as I arrived, I was drawn to the statues of iconic characters outside. Just taking photos at the entrance with Conan, Shinichi, and Professor Agasa's yellow Beetle made it impossible to stop snapping pictures.
The moment I stepped inside, the whole place felt like a dream paradise for manga fans. In addition to many of Gosho Aoyama's precious original manuscripts and a recreation of his workspace, there are tons of interactive games and puzzle-solving exhibits you can try, completely immersing you in Conan's world of deduction. From familiar classic manga panels and detailed introductions to all the hugely popular characters to museum-exclusive merchandise and souvenirs, I loved every single thing. The exhibits are extensive and fun, and both adults and children can have a great time. I highly recommend that all Conan fans add this place to their itinerary when visiting Tottori and experience this exciting world filled with the charm of mystery-solving!

Conan Street

This sightseeing street is in Hokuei Town, Tottori Prefecture, the hometown of Gosho Aoyama, the creator of the popular manga series Detective Conan. Stretching for about 1.4 kilometers from Conan Station (JR Yura Station) to the Gosho Aoyama Manga Factory, the street is packed with attractions that can captivate visitors of all ages.

• Tottori
• Tourist Attractions

While traveling in Tottori, I made a special pilgrimage to Conan Street, a must-visit spot for any Detective Conan fan! The moment I stepped onto this street filled with manga elements, I was instantly fired up. Along the route from the station to the Gosho Aoyama Manga Factory, you can see tons of finely crafted bronze statues of manga characters. Whether it's Edogawa Conan with his ever-confident smile, the handsome and intelligent Kudo Shinichi, the gentle and devoted Mouri Ran, the adorably scatterbrained Mouri Kogoro, or even popular and mysterious characters like Kid the Phantom Thief, as well as the cool Akai Shuichi and Amuro Toru, you can find them on statues, bridge pillars, streetlights, and manhole covers along the way. There are surprises every few steps, and I couldn't stop taking pictures.
Besides the photogenic streetscape, the shops and souvenir centers along the way are also really fun to browse. They're packed with all kinds of limited-edition character merchandise and souvenirs, making this a paradise for fans. The whole street is clean and relaxed, making it very pleasant to walk around. I highly recommend that anyone who loves Detective Conan visit when traveling in Tottori. Come look for your favorite characters, and you're sure to rediscover plenty of childhood memories and emotions!

Mizuki Shigeru Road

Mizuki Shigeru Road was established in 1993. The 800-meter-long street from Sakaiminato Station to the Mizuki Shigeru Museum is lined with 177 bronze yokai sculptures.

• Tottori
• Tourist Attractions

While traveling in Sakaiminato, Tottori, I made a special pilgrimage to Mizuki Shigeru Road, an absolute must for manga fans! The moment I stepped onto this fantastical street, I felt like I had fallen straight into the yokai world created by Shigeru Mizuki. The many bronze yokai statues lining both sides of the street are incredible. From Kitaro and Medama-Oyaji to Nezumi-Otoko, every character is so vivid and detailed that I couldn't stop taking pictures along the way.
Besides searching for all the hidden yokai sculptures, the souvenir shops lining the street are also a lot of fun to browse. They're packed with all kinds of exclusive Kitaro merchandise and character-shaped treats, all so cute that you'll want to take one of everything home. The street has a very relaxed, laid-back atmosphere, and even the creatively designed streetlights and mailboxes are full of surprises. I highly recommend adding Mizuki Shigeru Road to your itinerary when visiting the San'in region. Both adults and kids can have a great time here!

Don Quijote Dotonbori Store

Known for its late-night hours, quirky shelf displays, and handwritten promotional signs, Don Quijote is a beloved all-in-one discount store. The Dotonbori branch is especially eye-catching thanks to its iconic yellow Ferris wheel attached to the building’s façade-now a well-known landmark along the Dotonbori River in Osaka’s Minami district.

• Shinsaibashi, Namba, Nipponbashi (Minami)
• Commercial Buildings

On this shopping trip to Shinsaibashi in Osaka, one landmark you absolutely can't miss is the “Don Quijote” discount store! Whether it's the Dotonbori store or the Shinsaibashi store, just seeing the building or the penguin mascot on the sign from a distance is enough to get you excited. The moment you step inside, every floor from the first to the top is packed with all kinds of products, including drugstore items, snacks and cookies, cosmetics and skincare products, daily necessities, and souvenirs. It's basically a paradise for crazy shopping.
The best part is that they're open very late, and many locations are even open 24 hours. No matter how packed your daytime itinerary is, you can come here at night, browse at your own pace, and shop to your heart's content. The store also often has all kinds of deals and discounts. Just show your passport at checkout to get tax-free shopping, and you can combine it with coupons to save even more. Although it's really crowded and you may have to wait in line a bit at checkout, the staff are very efficient, and it's easy to find what you need. I highly recommend making Don Quijote in Shinsaibashi your last stop when visiting Osaka. You're guaranteed to leave with your suitcase filled to the brim!

Kin no Yu

Ranked among Japan's three oldest hot springs, Arima Onsen is a historic site beloved by the likes of Toyotomi Hideyoshi. Among its two spring types, the reddish-brown "Kinsen" and the clear "Ginsen", "Kinsen" can be enjoyed for drop-ins at Kin no Yu springs. This hot spring is a rich, iron and salt-laden sodium chloride strong saline spring (high-concentration neutral hot spring). Although the water is colorless when it first emerges, it oxidizes when exposed to air, turning a distinctive reddish-brown.

• Kobe
• Bathing & Spa Facilities

When visiting historic Arima Onsen, you definitely can't miss its most iconic hot spring landmark—Kin no Yu! As soon as you reach the entrance, you can feel the rich atmosphere of a traditional Japanese hot spring town. Because the water is rich in iron and salt, it turns a distinctive golden-brown color when exposed to air, which is why it's called “Kinsen.” It looks very mysterious.
The moment I stepped into the bath and soaked in the steaming hot spring, all my fatigue instantly disappeared. The deep, gentle warmth was especially soothing, and afterward, my whole body felt refreshed and my skin felt silky smooth. If you don't want to spend a lot of money staying at an expensive hot spring hotel, soaking in a public bath like this is truly the best and most authentic option. After your bath, you can also sit at the free footbath outside and chat while soaking your feet, or buy some carbonated rice crackers nearby. I highly recommend experiencing the excellent golden spring water at Kin no Yu when you visit Arima Onsen!

Arima Onsen

A famous hot spring that represents Kansai, which springs at the northern foot of Mt. Rokko. It is a historical hot spring that appears in "Nihon Shoki" and "Fudoki", and is one of the "Three Ancient Springs of Japan".

• Kobe
• Hot Springs & Hot Spring Resorts

While visiting historic Arima Onsen in Hyogo Prefecture for a soak and a stroll, I slowed down and wandered into the alleys of the hot spring town, where I unexpectedly discovered Arima Tenjin Shrine tucked away beside the bustling district. The moment I reached the shrine entrance, I immediately felt removed from the lively noise of the hot spring town and was greeted by a peaceful, rustic, and relaxing atmosphere.
Although it isn't large, the entire shrine grounds are gently surrounded by lush green trees, and the area is kept extremely clean and tidy. The shrine is mainly dedicated to the god of learning. Walking between the stone steps and shrine buildings, I naturally felt incredibly calm and relaxed. It's a great place to take a stroll and breathe in the fresh forest air after a soak. Best of all, it's actually located near the center of the hot spring town, so you can easily stop by to pay your respects while shopping or looking for a hot spring inn without worrying about going out of your way. I highly recommend making time on your next trip to Arima Onsen to walk down this quiet alley and experience the unique, welcoming local charm of Arima Tenjin Shrine, in addition to soaking at Kin no Yu and Gin no Yu and eating carbonated rice crackers!

Takenaka Meat Shop

Located just a 6-minute walk from "Arima Onsen" Station, this long-established shop specializes in domestic black Wagyu beef, particularly Kobe beef. In addition to supplying local inns, the shop also offers retail sales to the public, with an option for dining in. Inside, you can enjoy beef croquettes, minced meat cutlets, and beef skewers.

• Kobe
• Light Meals

On this trip to Kobe, I'd already heard a lot about the extremely popular Takenaka Meat Shop, and after actually waiting in line and trying it, I wasn't disappointed at all! It truly lives up to its reputation as a long-established butcher shop. As soon as you reach the entrance, you can smell the tempting aroma of fried food, making your stomach growl.
That day, I ordered a freshly fried Kobe beef croquette and a beef skewer. The outside was fried golden and crispy, with a satisfying crunch when I bit into it. The mashed potato inside was soft and creamy, paired with premium minced Kobe beef soaked in rich meat juices. Every bite was deeply satisfying. Although the line was fairly long, the staff worked very quickly, and everything was piping hot and freshly cooked when I received it. The prices are also quite affordable for Kobe beef, making it an excellent value snack. I sincerely recommend adding this shop to your food list when visiting Kobe. Once you try it, you'll definitely want to come back!

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

This time, I specifically planned to visit Kobe's landmark, Kobe Port Tower, during the day. I thought the nighttime view would be more beautiful, but the daytime scenery was surprisingly stunning! Set against the blue sky and white clouds, the lines of this unique red tubular hyperboloid structure look incredibly striking and futuristic. It looks great in photos from any angle and is truly the most iconic sight in Kobe.
The view from the observation deck at the top is incredibly expansive. You can take in the beautiful scenery of Kobe Harbor, the blue sea, and the neatly arranged city streets nearby, and even see the distant mountains clearly. When the breeze blows, it really makes you feel completely relaxed. After enjoying the view, you can also take a leisurely walk around the harbor's shopping centers and waterfront promenade and grab something to eat. I highly recommend saving a clear day to go up the tower when visiting Kobe and experience the bright scenery and port-city atmosphere!

Kanazawa FORUS

Located only a 1-minute walk from JR Kanazawa Station, this commercial facility operated by OPA features approximately 190 stores on each of its eight floors, offering a wide variety of goods from fashion items to interior goods, lifestyle goods, cosmetics, jewelry, etc. The lineup of stores has been renewed with the opening of new stores and the renewal of existing stores, and upgraded to the latest contents that show the "present" of Kanazawa.

• Kanazawa
• Commercial Buildings

During this trip to Kanazawa, I originally just wandered in to enjoy the air conditioning and look around, but once I entered the local Uniqlo, I was unexpectedly impressed by how good the shopping experience was! The Kanazawa store is much more spacious than I imagined, with wide, comfortable aisles. It never feels crowded or cramped, and the clothes are neatly organized by category, making it easy to find sizes and browse styles.
The biggest attractions are, of course, the local exclusive products and great prices. Combined with Japan's tax-free shopping service, it was quite a bit cheaper than buying in Taiwan, and before I knew it, my shopping basket was full. The staff were also extremely quick and efficient with checkout and tax refunds, so there was no need to wait in line for long. Whether you need warm clothing, want to pick out souvenirs, or simply want to go on a shopping spree, Kanazawa's Uniqlo is definitely a great find that shouldn't be missed when visiting the Hokuriku region. I sincerely recommend stopping by if you get the chance!