Naminoue Umisora Park Naminoue Beach | Review by 一個漸漸喜歡上慢旅的人

The first time I visited Shuri Castle, I drove there and parked in a nearby parking lot, then slowly walked up the stone-paved path from the main gate. On this return visit, I unexpectedly discovered another route from Shuri Castle—the charming Kinjo-cho Stone Paved Path—which leads downhill and offers a different view.

This old stone-paved path sits high above the surrounding area and offers expansive views. Walking along it feels like stepping back in time into a scene from a historical drama, and the rustic atmosphere is especially nostalgic. The old-fashioned stone walls and traditional homes on both sides have been preserved, letting you experience a completely different side of the Ryukyu Kingdom on foot. If you also enjoy taking walks and exploring traces of local history, I highly recommend coming here for a stroll. Whenever I travel, even if I'm visiting the same attraction, I like taking a different route and discovering new scenery.

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.