Okinawa's American Village is a popular attraction filled with American-style charm. The streets are lined with distinctive shops, restaurants, cafes, and colorful art installations, making it feel like you've stepped into a neighborhood in another country.
During this visit, what I liked most was the variety of architectural styles and cute displays everywhere. Even just walking around, there are plenty of great photo opportunities. When you get tired, you can stop at a restaurant for some food or a drink and leisurely enjoy the Okinawan sunshine and sea breeze.
American Village is even more beautiful in the evening. After the sun slowly sets, the street lights gradually come on, creating an even more romantic atmosphere. This trip wasn't just about shopping; I also got to experience Okinawa's unique American culture. It's a place that feels both relaxing and vibrant.
Mihama Town Resort American Village | Review by Gina C
Other Reviews by Gina C
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Goryokaku Tower
Goryokaku Tower, built adjacent to Goryokaku Park, offers a bird's-eye view of the Goryokaku Ruins, a special national historic site, from 90 meters above ground, and is loved by locals and tourists alike as a landmark of Hakodate.
Goryokaku Tower is one of Hakodate's most iconic landmarks. From the observation deck, you can clearly see the distinctive star-shaped fort in Goryokaku Park, and the view from above is truly spectacular.
On this visit to Goryokaku Tower, I looked down from the observation deck and took in the entire five-pointed-star-shaped moat and lush green park. The exhibits on the observation deck also helped me learn more about the history of Goryokaku and the Battle of Hakodate. -
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Drum Gate and Hospitality Dome (Kanazawa Station)
Kanazawa Station, the gateway to Kanazawa, is bustling with visitors as the Hokuriku Shinkansen arrives and departs, making it a hub for Hokuriku tourism. The eye-catching Drum Gate and Hospitality Dome, completed in 2005, are located at the Kenrokuen Gate (East Exit) facing the city center.
Kanazawa Station's Drum Gate is truly impressive! The enormous wooden gate was inspired by traditional Noh drums, and its design is distinctly Kanazawa. Paired with the transparent glass Hospitality Dome, it beautifully blends tradition and modernity.
On this visit to Kanazawa Station, I especially enjoyed taking photos in front of the Drum Gate. It feels different from every angle. During the day, sunlight shining on the glass roof gives it a modern look, while at night, the lights add a romantic atmosphere. It's a great place to take travel photos.
Kanazawa Station isn't just a place to catch a train; it's like a work of architecture worth admiring in its own right. After visiting in person, I felt Kanazawa's unique cultural charm from the moment I arrived at the station, and the city left a deep impression on me. -
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Hakodate Bugyosho
Hakodate Magistrate’s Office faithfully recreates the Edo Shognate’s security base around Japan’s northern territory. It is built at the original location in the former Goryokaku (the star-shaped fort), using as much similar skills and provisions as those in the Edo Period, such as pine beams, Bingo tatami mats or sliding doors with hand-made paper.
The Hakodate Magistrate’s Office is located in Goryokaku Park. It was an important administrative institution of the Edo shogunate in Hokkaido and is also a representative attraction for learning about Hakodate’s history. The traditional wooden architecture combined with the scenery of Goryokaku makes you feel as if you’ve stepped into a time tunnel through Japanese history.
This time, I went inside the Hakodate Magistrate’s Office and saw the tatami mats, wooden corridors, and traditional rooms. It really had the distinctive features of ancient Japanese architecture. Through the exhibits and explanations, I also learned more about the history of the shogunate in Hokkaido at the time, as well as stories related to the Battle of Hakodate. -
