Gina C's Reviews Page 4/4

Akama Shrine

This shrine is notable for its vivid vermilion Suitenmon gate, inspired by the mythical Dragon Palace. It enshrines Emperor Antoku, who tragically perished by drowning at the age of eight following defeat in the Battle of Dan-no-ura. Additionally, the site's predecessor, Amidaji Temple, is famous as the setting for the eerie ghost story Mimi-nashi-Hoichi (Hoichi-the-Earless).

• Yamaguchi
• Shrines & Temples

Akama Shrine is a famous attraction in Shimonoseki. Its bright red Suitenmon gate really stands out and looks great in photos.

The shrine enshrines the young Emperor Antoku and is filled with rich historical stories, with deep ties to the Battle of Dan-no-ura. Built by the sea, the shrine has a calm atmosphere. As you walk around, you can admire the beautiful architecture while feeling the charm of Japanese history and culture. It’s a place worth taking your time to enjoy.

Yufuin Floral Village

A compact theme park that recreates the streetscapes of the Cotswolds region in the UK, known as a filming location for the movie “Harry Potter,” with a magical, fairytale-like atmosphere that feels like you’ve stepped into a storybook. Inside the park, beautiful plants bloom throughout the seasons, and paths lined with stone cottages continue on, with plenty of photo spots scattered throughout.

• Oita
• Amusement Parks & Theme parks

Yufuin Floral Village feels like stepping into a fairytale. The small, charming European-style buildings make you want to keep taking photos.
There are lots of unique little shops, snacks, and cute themed stores featuring things like Ghibli and owls, so it’s easy and fun to explore. The streets have a relaxed vibe. Whether you’re shopping for souvenirs, trying treats, or just taking a slow stroll, you can feel Yufuin’s uniquely soothing charm. It’s a great place to slow down.

Kinrin Lake

Kinrin Lake is one of many popular tourist spots in the hot springs town of Yufuin. The lake sits under Mt. Yufu and as such was called takemoto-no-ike (lit. “lake under the mountain”) for years. However, it was renamed to Kinrin, or “golden scales”, by Mori Kuso in 1884 when he saw the golden glimmering scales of fish as they swam at sunset.

• Oita
• Nature Spots

Kinrin Lake is one of the must-visit spots in Yufuin. Although the lake isn’t large, it has a relaxing charm. In the early morning especially, white mist often rises from the lake because of the hot spring heat, making it feel like you’ve stepped into a magical scene.
Taking a slow walk along the lakeside and enjoying the views of the water and mountains really helps you unwind. Each season offers a different kind of scenery. Whether it’s the autumn maple leaves or the winter morning mist, it makes you want to stop and quietly take it all in.

Kamishikimi Kumanoimasu Shrine

A shrine famous on social media as a “Spiritual Place” and a “Gateway to another world”. This shrine worships Izanagi-no-Mikoto, Izanami-no-Mikoto, and Iwagimitai-Shogun as its deities. It is known by locals as “Gongen-San”. On the temple grounds, there is the “Nagi” for good luck in marriage and “Ugeto-Iwa” (Ugeto Stone) which is good for passing tests and winning things.

• Kumamoto
• Shrines & Temples

Kamishikimi Kumanoimasu Shrine is tucked away in the forest. As you climb the long stone steps, nearly a hundred moss-covered stone lanterns line both sides, creating a mysterious and peaceful atmosphere.

Sunlight filters through the trees, making the scenery feel almost dreamlike, which is why it has become a filming location for many movies and commercials. At the end, you can also see the famous Ugeto-Iwa. This huge rock opening symbolizes good fortune and overcoming challenges, letting you feel the unique charm where nature and faith come together.