Kurashiki Bikan has some of the most nostalgic scenery in Japan. Walking in, you'll find old residential streets, and the peaceful atmosphere even earned it a Michelin 2-star rating... It's just so beautiful! ❤️
Kurashiki Bikan Historical Quarter | Review by Tom Song
Other Reviews by Tom Song
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Shikemichi Townscape Preservation District
Centered on Shikemichi, a street in Nishi Ward, Nagoya, the Shikemichi Townscape Preservation District extends around Ofunamachi-dori. The Shikemichi area is a castle town that prospered thanks to merchants using water transport on the Horikawa Canal, which was excavated in 1610 along with the construction of Nagoya Castle.
The whole street still has the charm of old houses, with one wooden building after another. It feels like stepping into a little time tunnel.
There are cafes, small shops, and restaurants along the way, and the vibe is really chill. It’s not as crowded as the more popular tourist spots.
A great place to walk around, take photos, and slowly soak in Nagoya’s old-school charm. -
Hakone Sightseeing Cruise
A sightseeing ship that operates on Lake Ashinoko, a scenic spot in Hakone. The three ships, Royale II, Victory, and Queen Ashinoko, are characterized by their colorful and luxurious decorations. Each of them has a capacity of about 500 passengers and takes 25 to 35 minutes each way between Togendai Port, Hakone-machi Port, and Moto-Hakone Port. On a sunny day, the open deck is a great place to enjoy the scenery. Enjoy the pleasant breeze and the seasonal views of nature and mountains.
The Hakone Sightseeing Cruise on Lake Ashinoko is the best way to explore the area! The views from the boat are beautiful 👍. As you get closer to Hakone-machi Port, you can even see the majestic Mt. Fuji. Riding the boat is definitely a great experience.
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Katsuo-ji Temple
Surrounded by a national park in the surrounding area, Katsuo-ji Temple in Minoh is an ancient temple with a history of about 1,300 years, founded in the Nara period (710-794). Within the temple's vast grounds, which cover an area of about 80,000 square meters, are the main hall and temple gate, which were rebuilt by Toyotomi Hideyori, and Sanpoukoujin Shrine, which is believed to be the first Arakami shrine in Japan.
The victory daruma is the symbol of Katsuo-ji Temple! You can pray here for success in business, exams, jobs—pretty much any kind of victory.