It’s not overly crowded, and it’s not too complicated either. The area outside the station is pretty quiet, with a slightly rural feel and a slow, relaxed pace.
There’s basically no shopping or lively atmosphere, but if you’re just transferring, staying nearby, or using it as a base for visiting other spots in Mie Prefecture, it’s actually quite comfortable and stress-free.
Overall, it’s the kind of station that feels simple, low-key, and peaceful.
Hilton Yokohama
Hilton Yokohama opened in September 2023. Located across from Yokohama Bay Quarter, it offers beautiful views reflected on the water. It’s a great base for sightseeing in the Minato Mirai area and Yokohama Chinatown, with excellent access to nearby attractions like K-Arena Yokohama and the Yokohama Anpanman Children’s Museum.
It’s a bit far from JR or the main station—about a 10–15 minute walk. If you have luggage or are traveling with kids, it can feel tiring.
Sapporo Snow Festival
Ranked as one of the world's top three snow festivals, the Sapporo Snow Festival is a coveted winter extravaganza held every February in Sapporo, Hokkaido. The even kicked off in 1950 when local middle and high school students created snow sculptures in Odori Park. The event has since grown into a massive festival that draws some two million visitors from around the world each year.
Every year, the snow sculptures have a different theme, often inspired by current trends like popular anime or movie characters. There's always something new and exciting to see!
Ishiuchi Maruyama Ski Resort
The Ishiuchi Maruyama Ski Resort, with over 70 years of history, is one of the largest and most well-established ski resorts in the Kanto region, covering an area of 236 hectares. It has long been a favorite among skiers and snowboarders, boasting an impressive scale.
The ski resort is usually covered in powder snow, especially during peak season. The snow quality is just perfect—definitely one of the must-visit ski spots on my list.
