Amanohashidate in northern Kyoto Prefecture is considered one of Japan’s three most scenic views. The sandbar is about 3.6 kilometers long and thousands of pine trees grow on it. The best way to visit is in order, from south to north, so you can feel how the place slowly changes before your eyes.

Amanohashidate

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Most visitors start their journey from the south side of Amanohashidate station. Amanohashidate Beach is easy to reach. It has white sand and clear water, making it a great place to relax and start your day.

Nearby, Chionji Temple stands as a key stop, often called Kirito no Monju because it enshrines Monju Bosatsu, the deity of wisdom. Students and families come here to pray for success in studies.

After that, walk along the pine-lined path or rent a bicycle. Cycling is a great way to enjoy Amanohashidate. You can ride at your own speed and take a close look at the trees, sand and water around you. If you prefer the sea, the sightseeing boat is also available from Amanohashidate Pier on the south side and Ichinomiya Pier on the north side, connecting the two shores across the bay. 

Before leaving the south side, stop at View Land Park on Mount Monju. Take the ropeway or lift the hill, then look back at Amanohashidate from above. This is one of the classic viewpoints, famous for the “Flying Dragon View.” The mountaintop also features a Ferris wheel and cycle cars, making it enjoyable for people of all ages.

Points of Interest

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The Amanohashidate Shrine sits in the middle of the sandbar, so you reach it while crossing the sandbar. A quiet, sacred spot dedicated to the Eight Great Dragon Kings. Next to it is Iso-Shimizu, one of Japan’s 100 Famous Waters. It provides fresh water despite being surrounded by the sea. This unique setting creates a special and almost mysterious atmosphere.

Once crossed, head to Fuchu Beach, which has calm waves and soft sand. Next, Kasamatsu Park is an observation point located on Mount Nariai, 130 meters above sea level. Visitors can try matanozoki or look through their legs to see Amanohashidate as the “rising dragon view”. It may seem strange at first, but it’s a long-standing local tradition and a pleasant and memorable way to enjoy the scenery.

Not far away is Nariai-ji Temple, which sits higher on the mountain and offers another calm, beautiful stop. The builders reconstructed the Heisei Five-Storied Pagoda in the Kamakura style, making it a beautiful spot for photos, especially with its greenery and autumn leaves.

Aomori City is most famous for the grand Nebuta Festival, which takes place every summer. The Tsugaru region also takes pride in its own Neputa Festival, the second-largest festivity of its kind in Aomori Prefecture. The Tsugaru-han Neputa Village in Hirosaki City introduces the history of the Neputa Festival and the region’s diverse crafts.

Neputa Hall

Photo by: Alma Reyes

The main highlight is Neputa Hall, where visitors learn the background and key features of the Neputa Festival. In contrast to the Nebuta Festival in Aomori City, which features three-dimensional “ningyo-nebuta” (human or doll floats), Hirosaki City’s Neputa Festival uses two-dimensional “ogi-neputa” (fan floats) decorated with paintings of warriors. At the center of the hall stands a ten-meter-high Neputa float adorned with a beautiful woman on one side and a warrior on the other. While visitors marvel at elaborate “Kagami-e” (mirror pictures) of characters from Japanese and Chinese folktales, they can watch a live bamboo flute and taiko drum performance and may also try their hand at the instruments, keeping the beat to the festival music.

Hirosaki Neputa-no Yakata Museum (Neputa Gallery)

Photo by: Alma Reyes

The gallery displays more Neputa floats that actually parade during the festival. Here, visitors see the evolution of the varied designs, festival gear, paintings and memorabilia from the early Edo era. The corridors glitter with ornate floor lanterns and charming balloon-shaped goldfish hangings, while the procession chant echoes throughout the gallery. Historically, these chants were used to taunt opponents during battles.

A special room is devoted to the Tsugaru Shamisen “Sangendo.” The Tsugaru Shamisen was developed in the Meiji period and is a highly recognized musical craft in Japan. Live performances run every 50 to 70 minutes in a day. Check the website for the regular schedule.

Tsugaru Craft Center

Take part in the local craft workshops in an old rice storage warehouse from the Tsugaru clan days. Craftsmen demonstrate traditional techniques in Tsugaru lacquerware, Kogin embroidery, Kokeshi doll-making and many more. Reserve slots at reception.

Yokien Garden

Photo by: Alma Reyes

Outside the main building, Yokien Garden spreads over a dramatic layout of rock arrangements, pond circuits separated from a man-made hill, a waterfall, and huge black pine trees—all landscaped in the Tsugaru Oishibugakuryu style. Built between 1880 and 1914, the garden surrounds an ancient teahouse, offering staggering views of Mount Iwaki and Hirosaki Castle.

End the day at the souvenir shop and enjoy a taste of Aomori specialties, such as Kaiyaki (scallops and eggs), Tsugaru salmon roe over rice, and Kenoshiru soup at the Tsugaru Umaiya restaurant.

When you first visit Sarutahiko Shrine in Mie Prefecture, you might think some local gang of kids has chosen the temple for their latest prank. The main entrance is a gateway to a sub-shrine covered with colorful stickers and signatures, overlapping like the colors of a tabby cat. However, far from graffiti, the defacements are designed to appeal to the enshrined deity, Ame-no-Uzume. 

Sarutahiko Shrine Mythology

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According to local legend, the world was plunged into darkness when the Sun goddess, Amaterasu, became a recluse after a conflict with her storm god brother. The only one that could draw her out was Ame-no-Uzume with a wild comedic dance. As a result, her temples are deeply linked to arts and performance. Wannabe celebrities flock here to stick the names of their agencies and performance groups on the gate for good luck.

A Shrine for Artists

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Japanese myths often portray Uzume and her husband, the shrine’s namesake, as perfect complements. According to legend, Sarutahiko, the husband and god of the main shrine, helps you choose the right road, whereas Ame-no-Uzume, the wife, helps you walk it with energy, joy and creativity—and presumably a little dance. Because artists always exist halfway between careful choice and complete abandonment, both the personalities of the enshrined gods are important to them. 

Fortune Stones

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After visiting the shrines, the next place is the famous houiseki (fortune stone). These marks are important concepts in feng shui. The octagonal shape represents all possible directions that a decision can go. 

It is common to touch the symbols in specific orders depending on what you want to obtain. If you want to get better prospects at work, touch the 亥, 卯 and 未 characters. Feeling the pinch on your wallet? Try 巳, 酉 and 丑. Want to become more popular? Then, 寅, 午 and 戌 are the ones. Then you should feel yourself drawn to a particular direction. North is associated with introspection; south with energy; east with growth and new beginnings; and west with completion and results. The in-between directions mark transitions such as change, relationships or support. 

If you can’t understand the complicated ritual, don’t worry. Being drawn to a direction isn’t about choosing correctly. Perhaps the combination of life’s features and the way we navigate it explains the appeal of the temple and why entertainers flock here for guidance and to improve their fortunes. Even for those who balk at the thought of standing in front of a crowd, the same principles of choosing a path and walking it with powerful intentions apply. 

Like the Ghibli Museum in Tokyo, Ghibli Park in Aichi Prefecture is a must-visit destination for any fan of the superlative Studio Ghibli. Located just outside of central Nagoya, the park celebrates the creations of director Hayao Miyazaki and other legendary Ghibli animators. There are five themed areas to explore, spread out across the Expo 2005 Aichi Commemorative Park. Each area of the park—and even the spaces in between—is packed with hidden details and whimsical nods to Ghibli films. 

Ghibli’s Grand Warehouse

Photo by: Rachel Crane

At the heart of Ghibli Park is a sprawling exhibition space dubbed Ghibli’s Grand Warehouse. Inside, three themed displays showcase the craft and creativity behind Ghibli animations. While photography is largely forbidden, the exhibition Becoming Characters in Memorable Ghibli Scenes actively encourages it! This is your chance to pose for pics with Ponyo, No Face and a host of other Ghibli characters. 

The Grand Warehouse is also home to Cinema Orion, one of only two places in the world (along with the Ghibli Museum) where you can watch enchanting Ghibli short films. Elsewhere, kids will have a blast exploring Children’s Town and riding the one-of-a-kind patchwork Cat Bus. The Adventurous Flying Squadron shop is a treasure trove of Ghibli merchandise, and an aviation-themed café serves food and drinks. 

Ghibli Sorcery

Photo by: Rachel Crane

As soon as you enter Ghibli Park, you’ll spot the steampunk-amphibian face of Howl’s Moving Castle on the hillside. The castle sits in the Valley of Witches, an area inspired by all things Ghibli sorcery. Here, Kiki’s bakery stands side by side with Sophie’s hat shop, a quirky witches’ bookstore hidden away above. There’s even a whole separate gift shop dedicated entirely to Ghibli’s occult creations.

The real magic, though, comes when you step inside the characters’ homes. Kiki’s house and lodgings, Earwig’s cottage and Howl’s Castle have been lovingly brought to life with incredible attention to detail. Once inside, hands-on displays invite you to turn the pages of Howl’s spell books and dig through Kiki’s handbag. This area also features two paid-for rides, including a carousel that moves to the familiar tune of Merry-Go-Round of Life. 

Nostalgia and Play

Photo by: Rachel Crane

Three smaller areas around the park showcase displays from other Ghibli classics. Mononoke Village features sculptures of the spirits from Princess Mononoke and seasonal interactive workshops. A short bus ride—or a longer walk—through the trees lies Dondoko Forest, a Totoro-themed area geared towards younger visitors.

The Hill of Youth, meanwhile, brings to life the lesser-known Ghibli masterpiece, Whisper of the Heart. Guests become customers of the World Emporium antiques shop, complete with the iconic cuckoo clock and Baron cat statue. Below is the violin workshop, where you can try recreating the film’s poignant rendition of Take Me Home, Country Roads.    

Kobe is often treated as a quick stop between Osaka and Himeji, but it rewards travelers who take their time. Known for its historic foreign district, the city blends port history with traditional onsen and modern shopping. Just a short walk from the city center, Sorakuen Garden feels far removed from the busy shopping streets. It is the city’s only traditional Japanese garden, combining classic landscape design with architectural details that reflect Kobe’s international past.

Sorakuen Garden 

Photo by: PIXTA/ 空芯菜

Sorakuen is a pond-centered strolling garden, designed to be enjoyed slowly. Paths circle the water, with stone bridges and stepping stones guiding you through carefully arranged scenery. The layout draws from mountain landscapes, using changes in elevation, streams and small waterfalls to create a sense of depth.

Views shift as you move, with each turn offering a new angle rather than a single focal point. Seasonal changes also shape the garden’s natural charm, with over 4,000 Azaleas blooming in spring and maple trees bringing vibrant reds and yellows in autumn. The garden is also home to a camphor tree believed to be around 500 years old.

History and Cultural Highlights of Sorakuen Garden

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The garden began as part of the private residence of Kodera Kenkichi, a former mayor of Kobe, with construction starting in the late 19th century and finishing in the early 20th century. Kobe City took ownership in 1941 and opened it to the public as “Sorakuen,” meaning “harmony and joy together.” While much of the original estate was lost during World War II, here several structures remain or were later relocated.

The former Hassam residence, built in 1902 for a foreign trader and moved from Kitano in 1963, reflects Kobe’s early international community. The Former Kodera Family Stable, with its European-style design, reflects Western architectural influence from the same period. Both buildings are only open to the public on limited occasions. In 2026, the interior of the former Hassam residence will be open on weekends throughout May.

The funayagata is the preserved rooftop section of an Edo-period river pleasure boat once used by the lord of Himeji Domain. Built between the late 17th and early 18th centuries and relocated here for preservation, it is the only surviving structure of its kind in Japan. 

Matsumae Park sits at the southern tip of Hokkaido in Matsumae City. Spread over a vast area, the park is home to cultural sites such as the famous Matsumae Castle, a temple area, and the residence of the Matsumae clan. But what really makes this park special is its spectacular cherry blossoms. With around 10,000 trees across about 250 species, it is one of Japan’s favorite cherry blossom destinations.

Matsumae Park Background

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At the heart of the park stands Matsumae Castle, the only traditional-style castle in Hokkaido. First completed in 1854, it played an important role in protecting the region. A fire destroyed the original castle many years ago. The current castle was rebuilt in 1961 and still reflects its past. Surrounding the castle, you’ll find an old shrine and historical paths that tell stories of the Edo period. 

In fact, the cherry blossoms here have a long history as well. Centuries ago, merchants, samurai, and aristocratic families brought these trees with them. Over time, local people have carefully nurtured and developed them, creating the rich diversity that exists today. You can feel this deep connection between nature and history as you walk through the park.

Cherry Blossom Season at Matsumae Park

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One of the best things about Matsumae Park is that you can enjoy the beauty of the cherry blossoms over a long period of time. The flowers bloom from early April to late May. This means that visitors have plenty of time to see the flowers at their best. The early bloomers of the season gradually give way to the middle and late bloomers, creating a changing scene every week.

The park is known for its wide range of cherry blossoms, from soft white to deep pink, and even rare greenish tones. 

Scenic Walks and Other Highlights

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The large grounds of Matsumae Park, covering over 200,000 square meters, offer many scenic spots to explore. The “Cherry Blossom Sample Garden” is like a living encyclopedia, where you can see many different types of cherry trees in one place. There’s also a second park on a hill, where you can enjoy a stunning view of the entire area and the blue waters of the Tsugaru Strait.

Along the walkways, especially on Satozakura Road, cherry trees line both sides, creating a beautiful tunnel of flowers. You’ll also find famous old trees, some over 300 years old, standing proudly as symbols of the park’s history.

The perfect way to conclude a cherry blossom viewing trip is to see the illuminated cherry blossoms at night. The castle and cherry blossoms reflected in the moat make for a very picturesque scene.