Basically, these are just the old homes of merchants that were renovated and opened to the public after they became successful.
Gokasho Kondo Cityscape | Review by 楊華
Other Reviews by 楊華
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Futagami Mountain Manyo Line
Mt. Futagami, with an elevation of Approx. 274 meters, stands near the border between Takaoka City and Himi City in Toyama Prefecture. The Futagami Mountain Manyo Line is an Approx. 8-kilometer scenic driving route that runs along the mountain ridge. On clear days, it offers spectacular views of Toyama Bay and the Noto Peninsula on one side, and the Tateyama Mountain Range on the other. From the observation deck near the summit, you can take in a panoramic view of Takaoka City.
The train cars are small, and the ride feels really relaxed. The scenery along the way is simple and understated, not the kind of touristy view that makes you go wow at first glance.
Outside the window you’ll see houses, fields, and sometimes Mt. Futagami in the distance. The whole atmosphere feels very everyday and slow-paced. It’s a good choice if you’re not in a hurry and just want to unwind and enjoy the views. It has the feel of a local commuter line, but it’s still pretty soothing for visitors too. -
Hateruma Island
A inhabited island in Okinawa’s Yaeyama Islands and the southernmost inhabited island in Japan. Close enough for a day trip from Ishigaki Island, it can be reached by high-speed boat or ferry, and air service resumed in 2024. Scenic spots showcasing its natural beauty are scattered across the island, including Takanazaki, where the Monument Marking Japan’s Southernmost Point and the Southernmost Peace Monument stand on a dramatic cliffside cape, and Nishi Beach, a popular spot for swimming and sunset views.
Hateruma Island is seriously gorgeous! The water is so blue and the sand is so white—it’s the kind of view that makes you say wow 🌊✨
The whole island is really peaceful, so it’s perfect for just relaxing or slowly biking around. I especially recommend visiting the Monument Marking Japan’s Southernmost Point and Star Sand Beach. Both are super unique.
At night, you can see a sky full of stars, which feels so romantic 💫 It’s absolutely worth visiting at least once! -
Hanayagura Observatory
Mt. Yoshino, known for its approximately 30,000 cherry trees in bloom, is a famous cherry blossom spot. A popular viewing location is the Hanayagura Observatory, reached by climbing the steep, curvy Shishiozaka slope. It is said that here, Sato Tadanobu, a retainer of Minamoto no Yoshitsune, once shot arrows at enemies pursuing them from the mountain's base to facilitate Yoshitsune's escape.
This place is gorgeous! It really feels like standing inside a painting, especially during cherry blossom season—it's absolutely dreamy.