Shuri Kinjo-cho Stone Paved Path | Review by 一個漸漸喜歡上慢旅的人

After visiting Naminoue Shrine, don’t miss Naminoue Beach right next to it, the only beach in Naha City. Just follow the small path beside the shrine downhill, and you can easily reach the beach. Since it’s right in the city, there were lots of people swimming and relaxing that day, making it very lively. The best part is that when you stand on the beach and look back, Naminoue Shrine perched on the cliff looks especially unique. Seeing the same building from a different angle always gives you a completely different perspective.

Although I didn’t actually go into the water this time, just walking on the fine sand, quietly listening to the waves, and looking at the deep blue sea felt incredibly relaxing and soothing.

I wonder if everyone else is like me—when traveling in Japan, I always have this inexplicable fondness for the vending machines along the way. It feels as if simply inserting some coins and buying a drink is one of the most authentic Japanese travel rituals. Even though I know it would be a little cheaper at a convenience store or supermarket, whenever I’m waiting for a train on the platform, I still can’t help walking over to the vending machine to see what’s new.

You often see acure machines in Japan, and most of the items they sell are mineral water and fruit juice. The most interesting part is that a few times, I happened to see workers restocking them. Watching their efficient and distinctive way of restocking was fascinating and gave me a real sense of everyday local life. I highly recommend that when you travel to Japan, if you’re bored while waiting for a train, try finding a vending machine and see what you can discover. It’s a nice way to experience the feel of everyday life on the streets of Japan.

This was my second visit to Mt. Inasa in Nagasaki to see the night view. I took the ropeway up from the shrine at the foot of the mountain. Having been here once before, I felt much more at ease this time. Otherwise, walking from the bus stop to the shrine and trying to find my way in the dark would have made me a little nervous.

After taking the ropeway to the summit, you’ll arrive at Inasayama Park. A short walk along the path leads to an observation deck with an excellent view. By nightfall in November, the mountain breeze already had a noticeable chill. Luckily, I had prepared a cup of hot coffee. Sipping it in the slightly cold air while quietly taking in the million-dollar night view was such a pleasure. It truly deserves its reputation as one of the world-famous “New Three Great Night Views.” Seeing the dazzling lights spread across the mountains and along the sea in person, with the harbor’s surface and the densely packed lights of buildings on the hillsides blending together, was truly magnificent and romantic. It left me with a unique travel memory.