Before visiting Sakurajima, I had no idea transportation was so convenient. There are frequent ferries running 24 hours a day between downtown Kagoshima and Sakurajima. The trip takes only about 15 minutes, and the special udon served onboard is not to be missed. Order a piping-hot bowl of udon with rich bonito broth and watch Sakurajima volcano gradually grow larger from the ferry. Before you know it, you've arrived on this magnificent active volcanic island—what an experience!
Sakurajima Ferry | Review by 一個漸漸喜歡上慢旅的人
Other Reviews by 一個漸漸喜歡上慢旅的人
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Sunshine Aquarium
This aquarium is built on the roof of a building in Sunshine City, a large-scale commercial facility in Ikebukuro. It is made up of three areas: “Sky Journey,” “Ocean Journey,” and “Waterfront Journey.”
When traveling to Tokyo with kids, Sunshine Aquarium in Ikebukuro is a great backup plan for a rainy day.
Its biggest advantage is its convenient location in the bustling city center, just a short walk from the station. The exhibits are a manageable size, so you won't end up with sore feet like at a large aquarium. It's just the right size for families with children. You can relax and watch the cute penguins and all kinds of marine life, and if your timing is right, you may even catch an entertaining animal show. Overall, it's a convenient and relaxing place in the city center to take the kids without spending too much time.
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Byodoin Temple Museum Hoshokan
The museum is located within the premises of the World Heritage site, Byodoin, famous for its magnificent Phoenix Hall (Hou-ou-do) which recreates the Pure Land of Bliss in this world.
Walking along the approach to Byodoin and through gardens filled with cherry blossoms, you’ll arrive at this World Heritage site. One of the most anticipated highlights is the Byodoin Temple Museum Hoshokan, tucked away in an underground space.
Photography is prohibited inside to protect the precious cultural artifacts and allow visitors to view them quietly. But because you can’t take photos, you can set aside distractions and focus completely on the traces of history before you. The museum displays Bodhisattva statues in a variety of vivid poses, along with National Treasure artifacts. The solemn atmosphere brings an unparalleled sense of peace and spiritual cleansing as you explore.
After viewing the extensive exhibits, there is also a lovely little gift shop by the exit where you can choose from a variety of distinctive Byodoin items as souvenirs. Overall, this museum is well worth taking the time to appreciate and offers a calming experience for both body and mind.
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Byodoin Omotesando
This historic Omotesando (main approach) leads to the main gate of the World Heritage Site, Byodoin Temple. Located just a 10-minute walk from JR Uji Station and immediately across the Uji Bridge from Keihan Uji Station, it is easily accessible from both stations.
After leaving JR Uji Station, I strolled through this city filled with the enchanting aroma of tea. The streets were lined with many long-established tea shops I had dreamed of visiting, such as Itoh Kyuemon and Nakamura Tokichi. Each one gave off an inviting tea fragrance that made me want to go inside and try something.
Along Byodoin Omotesando, there were all kinds of distinctive little shops on both sides. It was lively yet filled with a strong sense of local warmth. For some reason, the relaxed atmosphere of strolling along the street felt as familiar and welcoming as the approach to Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine I had visited before.
On the way back, I unexpectedly came across a roadside takoyaki stand with a long line. Curiosity got the better of me, so I couldn't resist joining the line. In the chilly weather, biting into freshly made, piping-hot takoyaki, crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, made me incredibly happy. This street, filled with the aroma of tea and a strong sense of local life, is definitely an unforgettable memory from my trip to Uji that made me want to linger.
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