Niigata is well known for its premium Koshihikari rice, first-rate Japanese sake, bitter winter snow and world-class ski resorts. In fact, Niigata Port is the largest container cargo handler on the Sea of Japan coast of Honshu Island. In the latter half of the 17th century, the port served as a shipping hub for transporting the Shogunate’s rice, making it a flourishing trade hub. At the tip of the port, visitors can find Hakusan Shrine, which has stood as a vital guardian of the harbor. During the Edo period, in addition to religious worship, the shrine grounds were also a hub for loading rice bound for Osaka and Edo.

Hakusan Shrine History

Photo by: PIXTA/ 髙橋義雄

With a history spanning over a thousand years back to the Heian and Kamakura periods, Hakusan Shrine in Niigata originally enshrined the deity of Mount Haku (Hakusan), regarded as one of Japan’s three consecrated mountains. The god was transferred from the head shrine, Hakusan Hime Shrine in Kaga Province to the present site. Because Niigata was a crucial port city, its seamen and traders considered Mount Haku to be a key protector of the seas. The shrine was later rebuilt in 1647, and Hakusan Park was completed in 1873.

Today, the religious site is renowned for its matchmaking goddess, Kikuri-hime-no-Okami, who fosters love and harmony in relationships. Worshippers can explore symbolic landmarks such as the sacred Hakusan “kukuri” rock brought down from Mount Haku, the “Musubi no Ichou” ginkgo tree and the “Musubi no Ema Kake” wooden plaques—all believed to bring good luck, healthy partnerships and family safety.

Shrine Grounds

Photo by: PIXTA/ kumiko

Grand Torii Gate and Zuishinmon Gate

These two gates serve as the shrine’s auspicious landmarks. The Grand Torii Gate gleams in bright vermilion as people pass through a stone-lined approach surrounded by nature. Along the sandy pathway stand two reddish-brown, Bizen-ware guardian dogs, which were brought to the shrine from the Seto Inland Sea via traditional Kitamaebune cargo ships.

Walking past the Grand Torii Gate, visitors arrive at the majestic Zuishinmon Gate, characterized by a gabled roof, thick zelkova pillars, and complex woodwork. Sentinel figures protect the estate from evil forces.

Haiden Hall of Worship

Built in 1644, the main hall features a dark natural façade and a gracefully curved roof. The building design is devoid of ornamentation, expressing serenity and simplicity. It houses an “Ōfune” votive plaque depicting a maritime port.

Enkikan

The historic Meiji-era merchant residence belonged to the wealthy Saito family, a prominent business clan in Niigata. The building has preserved the traditional craft of “ranma” (ornate transom carving) and “jibukuro” (low, built-in cabinet carpentry). As a National Tangible Cultural Property, the architecture also encloses an elegant courtyard with a shikinkutsu (buried acoustic water cistern). Visitors can pay a special fee to enjoy a cup of green tea while admiring the garden.

Koryu Shrine

This structure honors the powerful Yellow or Golden Dragon god, who invites good fortune and wards off calamities. Visitors pray for protection by touching the divine jewel held by the dragon stone.

Hakusan Park

The shrine sits within an enormous seven-hectare park patterned after a Dutch-style garden. Both geometric and naturalistic, the landscape extends over walkways and a grove of cherry blossom and maple trees. The most eye-catching scenery is the charming Hasu Lotus Pond. Spectacular giant green lotus leaves with pale pink blossoms cover the pond entirely. It links to the Hyoutan Pond, which features a log-like bridge draped with crawling vines, traditional stone lanterns and a water fountain. During the flower season, wind chimes tinkle in the gentle breeze as visitors walk the winding paths.

Every city and town in Japan, big and small, has meibutsu (local specialties) and Okinawa has more than most. 

As Japan’s southernmost region, Okinawa has retained many cultural, linguistic and culinary differences from the mainland. When visiting this tropical paradise, here are five popular items that make for perfect omiyage to share the good memories of your trip. 

1. Yukishio Chinsuko 

Photo by: Elizabeth Sok

These famous cookies, produced by sweets shop Nanpudo, are based on traditional Okinawan shortbread-like biscuits and flavored with premium salt from Miyakojima Island. As one of the area’s most popular omiyage, these are easy to find while still having a refined and subtle flavor and native Okinawan ingredients. 

• Price: ¥432 (set of 6 pairs of cookies) 
• Website

2. Hormel’s Taco Rice 

Photo by: Elizabeth Sok

Taco Rice, a Japanese Tex-Mex favorite that could only be conjured up in Okinawa, is easy to recreate via this ready-made pack of spiced ground meats and hot sauce for those who like it spicy. Just add raw veggies, like lettuce and tomatoes, and cheese on top and you can bring the classic Okinawan taste home with you. 

• Price: ¥439 (includes 2 servings) 
• Website

3. Miyakojima Shima Banana Cake

Photo by: Elizabeth Sok

Using special island bananas from Miyakojima, this cake souvenir is a lovely treat, with a moist texture reminiscent of pound cake. Since Miyakojima bananas are slightly more sour than other varieties, the cake is not overly sweet and has a pleasing banana fragrance. 

• Price: ¥356
• Website

4. Okihamu’s Okinawan Sata Andagi Donuts 

Photo by: Elizabeth Sok

This omiyage is a version of a traditional Okinawan sweet, known as sata andagi in the native Ryuukan language, that resembles a deep-fried donut. Here, the fried dough is wrapped around bean paste cooked with Okinawan shikuwasa citrus for a double-punch of local flavor. It tastes even better when reheated too. 

• Price: ¥421 (set of 4) 
• Website

5. Muchimuchi Salt 

Photo by: Elizabeth Sok

Mixing two of Okinawa’s unique local ingredients, kokutou (black sugar) and yukishio salt, these treats are great souvenirs. The small-sized packaging and salt content make them a good grab-and-go option, especially before or after a workout. 

• Price: ¥216 
• Website

Hopping between Osaka, Nara and Kyoto usually means hauling luggage onto commuter cars and bracing through rush-hour crowds. Kintetsu Railway’s AONIYOSHI Sightseeing Limited Express provides an alternative, luxury way to travel.

Debuting in April 2022, the four-car train quickly became trendy on Instagram feeds, recognizable by its rich royal-purple exterior – a nod to the coveted metallic dyes of eighth-century Nara. The name draws from a word once used in ancient poetry to honor the original Japanese capital. Kintetsu, Japan’s largest private rail operator, already has a reputation for design-forward services like their sleek Hinotori Limited express that runs between Osaka and Nagoya. With the AONIYOSHI, they took a retrofitted 12200 series fleet and reimagined it entirely around slow travel.

Onboard the AONIYOSHI

Photo by: PIXTA/ つじ

Instead of dense, forward-facing rows, the carriage interior feels like a refined lounge. Capped at just 84 passengers per trip, the train gives everyone breathing room. Cars 1, 3 and 4 feature a 1+1 layout of comfortable, muscat-green armchairs, angled diagonally toward floor-to-ceiling windows so you can watch suburban Kansai fade into forested hills. Passengers traveling in small groups or as a family can book Car 2’s salon booths, where tall bronze-tinted glass partitions craft a cozy, semi-private compartment.

Despite the vintage aesthetic, practical details like dedicated luggage storage racks in Cars 1, 3 and 4, free onboard Wi-Fi and accessible barrier-free spaces make traveling on the Aoniyoshi comfortable and effortless. Car 2 also houses a sales counter serving craft beer, local sake and Nara speciality desserts. Down in Car 4, a small onboard library stocks books on local craft, temples and rail design. 

Exploring Osaka, Nara and Kyoto

Photo by: PIXTA/ ケン

In Osaka, boarding at Osaka-Namba Station places you moments from the sensory overload of Dotonbori’s neon-lit alleyways. Before stepping onto the train, grab a quick bite in Amerikamura or wander the historic arcades of Shinsaibashi.

Arriving at Kintetsu-Nara Station puts you noticeably closer to the city’s heart than JR alternatives. A short ten-minute walk brings you into Nara Park to see the Great Buddha at Todai-ji and the moss-draped stone lanterns of Kasuga Taisha. To drop away from the peak crowds, slip into the narrow residential lanes of Naramachi, where traditional machiya townhouses have been repurposed as quiet craft shops and neighborhood eateries.

In Kyoto, Kintetsu’s dedicated platforms sit integrated directly into the central Kyoto Station complex. Rather than heading straight for the overcrowded main temple trails, use the location as a pivot to quieter corners. A quick stroll north leads to Shosei-en, a serene temple garden that remains remarkably peaceful even in peak season.

The Shizuoka Performing Arts Center (SPAC) is one of only two major theatrical centers in Japan that host residency programs for local and foreign artists. Established in 1995, it was the first organization in the country to assemble a full artistic staff of actors and production crew members who operate within its own dedicated theatre venues. Award-winning architect Arata Isozaki, in collaboration with founder Tadashi Suzuki, designed the expansive 2.1-hectare complex of theater buildings spread across the Nihondaira Hills. Isozaki envisioned an open facility that integrates modern and classical structures, allowing performers and spectators to connect closely with each other while coexisting with nature.

Shizuoka Performing Arts Center (SPAC)

Photo by: Alma Reyes

Open Air Theatre: Udo

Accommodating 400 guests, the open-air Udo arena entertains its audience entirely under natural light. The seating layout resembles an ancient Greek theater, while the multi-tiered gallery and roof follow the architectural typology of Elizabethan playhouses. To incorporate Japanese aesthetics, the long, raised platform behind the stage reflects a traditional Noh stage. As a counterpart to the “hanamichi” wooden runway found in Kabuki theaters, Isozaki conceptualized a unique, tea-bush-lined passageway for actors called the “cha-michi.” Additionally, the striking Izu-Wakakusa stone construction blends beautifully with the green forest and tea fields, offering the public a rare, ecological outdoor theatre experience. 

Box Theater

As a simple, rectangular black box, this theater functions primarily as a rehearsal, training, and performance studio. The floor plan is flat and adaptable, permitting its 110 seats and stage to be reconfigured for maximum flexibility and comfort. Seamless wooden framing encompasses the walls, ceiling, and exposed beams.

Ellipse Theater: DAENDO

The structure exhibits prominent Japanese features: tatami-mat corridors, wooden pillars, beams, and rafters, alongside a circular lounge with views of Mount Fuji. Based on Italy’s Teatro Olimpico, Isozaki embodied the Renaissance concept of inscribing a flattened ellipse directly across the stage backdrop and the spectator area so that the audience feels closer to the performers. Furthermore, the intricate craftsmanship of the stunning cypress high-vaulted dome funnels vertical shafts of natural sunlight down onto the pitch-black stage, emanating a mystical sensation.

Mini Museum: Teatron

The compact museum displays the historical context of major performances by SPAC, as well as those from other regions in Japan and around the world. It also serves as a rest area and venue for workshops. Next door is the Kachi Kachi Yama Café, where spectators can grab a drink before or after a show.

Shizuoka Arts Theater

Photo by: Alma Reyes

Located outside Higashi-Shizuoka Station, the GRANSHIP (Shizuoka Convention & Arts Center) building houses the Shizuoka Arts Theater on its top floor. Its enormous, striking metallic exterior mimics an ocean liner. Inside, the theater’s proscenium-free, horseshoe-shaped layout provides an intimate space for the audience. Soft, dramatic lighting casts rhythmical shadow patterns across the brick-stone walls and deep crimson seats. 

Tochoji Temple is a historic Buddhist temple in the Hakata area of Fukuoka. Just a short walk from Gion station. It was built in 806 by the famous monk Kobo Daishi after his return from China. It is one of the oldest Shingon Buddhist temples in Japan. The temple is best known for its peaceful grounds, the impressive Fukuoka Great Buddha and its long connection to Japanese history and culture.

Tochoji Temple

Photo by: PIXTA/ ai

Kukai (Kobo Daishi) built the temple hoping to spread the teachings of Esoteric Buddhism across Japan. The temple was damaged several times during wars, including the Mongol invasions. It was still rebuilt and continued to play an important role in Fukuoka’s history.

During the Edo period, Tochoji Temple became the family temple of the powerful Kuroda clan, who ruled the Fukuoka Domain. The graves of the second, third and eighth lords of the Kuroda family can still be found within the peaceful temple grounds. Today, the temple remains a place of worship and a well-known historical landmark.

The Famous Great Buddha

Photo by: PIXTA/ チリーズ

The highlight for many visitors is the Fukuoka Great Buddha, the largest seated wooden Buddha. Behind the statue is a dark underground passage that offers a memorable part of the visit. After passing displays that describe Buddhist ideas about right and wrong, visitors walk through complete darkness while following a handrail. The experience is meant to encourage quiet reflection. It symbolizes moving from darkness and uncertainty towards light, wisdom and inner peace.

Temple Grounds

Photo by: Abhijit Sen

Walking around Tochoji Temple gives visitors the chance to see several beautiful buildings. The impressive five-story pagoda is one of the first things that catches the eye. At the same time, the peaceful Rokkakudo Hall is popular for its unique hexagonal shape and revolving shelves that house Buddhist scriptures. The temple’s Main Hall houses the historic Thousand-Armed Kannon statue, an Important Cultural Property from the Heian period.

Tochoji Temple is also famous for its traditional festivals. Every February, the temple celebrates the Setsubun Festival, one of the oldest festivals in Fukuoka. It attracts large numbers of people who come to pray for good luck and protection from misfortune. During the festival, people dress as the seven gods of fortune and colorful red and blue demons take part in the popular bean-throwing ceremony.

Situated between Suruga Bay and the Southern Alps, Shizuoka City offers various leisure and cultural destinations overlooked by visitors. One of them is the exquisite Nihondaira Yume Terrace, designed by celebrated architect Kengo Kuma.

Nihondaira Yume Terrace

Photo by: PIXTA/ uri

Approximately forty minutes by bus from Shizuoka Station, the site stands on a plateau at an altitude of about 308 meters, and presents 360-degree lookouts stretching to Mount Fuji, Suruga Bay,  Miho-no-Matsubara Forest, Shimizu Port, Izu Peninsula, and the Southern Alps. Kuma completed the terrace building in 2018, keeping modern engineering and traditional Japanese aesthetics in mind. The overall structure follows an octagonal geometric layout, based on the Yumedono (Hall of Dreams) at Horyu-ji Temple in Nara. It consists of three stories, which use floor-to-ceiling glass walls and local cedar. The wood frames are finely cut into complex branch-like patterns.

Interior Highlights

Photo by: PIXTA/ たこ

The first floor houses the Exhibition Area, showcasing the history, topography, and culture of Nihondaira through picture scrolls, graphic panels, and 3D projection mapping. Limestone-textured tiles take inspiration from the classical European style. Tinted glass railings border the corridors and the staircase. An intricate weave of multi-directional timber ceiling beams emphasizes the interior’s prominent characteristics. A beautifully curated Japanese pocket stone garden outside with reflective flooring purposely mirrors the hovering pine trees and blue sky. While ascending the grand wooden staircase, visitors gaze upward to the magnificent timber ceiling design. Their protruding beams embody a forest-like atrium, resonating Mount Fuji and its environs. The diagonal framework allows flexible, multiple perspectives of the oval interior layout.

The second floor comprises the lounge and café, which face an expansive 1,200-square meter exterior garden. Savor the exhilarating backdrop of seasonal flowers while sipping special Shizuoka teas served in the café. Several paintings depict scenes of Mount Fuji and the landscapes of Nihondaira.

The observation deck is located on the third floor. Visitors can take in panoramic outlooks from various angles while encircling the 200-meter wooden walkway. This finely designed corridor extends as a loop toward the watchtower. There are also benches on the outdoor walkway to sit on as people fully absorb the superb sight. As the observation deck is open 24 hours a day, the gorgeous night scenery is exceedingly popular, which is considered one of the best panoramic vistas in Japan. It has been designated a Japan Night View Heritage Site. On a rainy or stormy day, a monitor screen permits visitors to catch a clear glimpse of Mount Fuji and the neighboring terrain.

Beyond the Terrace

Photo by: PIXTA/ ゆうた1127

Visitors often combine a tour of Nihondaira Yume Terrace with a ropeway ride to Kunozan Toshogu Shrine. The Nihondaira Ropeway Station is a five-minute walk from the terrace. The shrine is another five-minute ride on the cable car. Less than ten minutes on foot is the Nihondaira Hotel, also designed by Kengo Kuma. Like the terrace buildings, the hotel is famous for its distinct wooden interior and stunning views.

Tokugawa Ieyasu lived in Sumpu (Shizuoka City) during three major periods of his life: as a child hostage of the Imagawa clan from 1549 to 1560; as a regional lord from 1586 to 1590, before his transfer to Kanto; and as a retired shogun in his final days from 1607 to 1616. He directed the construction and expansion of the Sumpu Castle Ruins and Park. During his retirement, Sumpu rivaled Edo politically and culturally. Today, the castle grounds remain Shizuoka City’s most prominent historical treasure. 

Sumpu Castle Ruins

Photo by: PIXTA/ or-kame

The roughly 178,000-square meter estate consists of three concentric moats bordered by stone walls. The innermost moat, Honmaru, served as the protective barrier for the core citadel of Tokugawa. It offers scenic waterfronts via boat tours. As the middle ring of the three defensive moats, the Ninomaru features connected angular bends and channels for strategic military safeguarding. Walkways swerve along its stone walls. The outer moat, Sannomaru, secured residences, government offices, and other facilities.

Watchtowers

Photo by: PIXTA/ taktak99

Higashi Gomon/Tatsumi Yagura

From the Masugata Gate (Higashi Gomon), an engraved stone-and-wooden bridge connects the main entrance of the castle to the east watchtower, called the Tatsumi Yagura. The striking facade of the courtyard reveals meticulous Japanese carpentry techniques and tiny slits through which soldiers threw stones or shot arrows at enemies. The three-story structure stands on an L-shaped layout, which was a rare architectural design at the time.

Hitsujisaru Yagura

Another defensive turret, the Hitsujisaru Yagura, stands out on the southwest side of the property. The tower emphasizes a dual-layered roof and traditional timber framing built entirely without nails. A distinct bay window construction, called an “ishi-otoshi” or stone drop, protrudes from the exterior walls. This functioned as a tactical mechanism to drop rocks or boiling water, or fire arrows and guns downward at attackers. Inside, the floorboards and ceiling panels were removed so visitors can inspect the exposed frames, pillars, and traditional joinery without obstruction. Behind the watchtower lies the Ninomaru Gomon Site, which leads to the second enclosure. 

Momijiyama Garden

Photo by: PIXTA/ shikema

Aesthetically designed yatsuhashi (zigzag) staggered wooden walkways allow various vantage points of the daimyo-styled landscape while strolling along the paths. Four principal sub-gardens define the overall layout. 

The Garden of the Village blooms with peonies, plums, and irises clustered around the zigzagged footpath. Toward the pond, the Garden of the Sea resembles the Hakone Pass and Izu Coast with its rock formations and pine thickets. As the centerpiece of the oasis, the Garden of the Mountain Village unveils a unique miniature grassy hill with terraced azaleas, representing Mount Fuji and Shizuoka’s tea fields. Visitors can climb the steps to the peak to catch a spectacular view of the entire garden. Finally, at the Garden of the Mountain, narrow trails, maple trees, and flowing waterfalls converge amid thick foliage.

Before leaving the park, savor Shizuoka green tea and sweets at the Ryurei-seki (table-style tea seating) facing the pond. There is also a large “sukiya” styled Unkai teahouse and a smaller Seigetsu-en teahouse for events like tea ceremonies and ikebana demonstrations.

Hidden in Itoshima City, Fukuoka Prefecture, Totoro Forest is a peaceful nature trail that feels like a scene from an animated film. Even though it is not an official Studio Ghibli attraction, visitors call it that because the tree-covered path looks like the forest from My Neighbor Totoro. The quiet surroundings, fresh air and beautiful scenery have made it one of Itoshima’s most loved hidden gems.

Totoro Forest (Itoshima)

Photo by: Abhijit Sen

Totoro Forest is a walking trail located in Keya no Oto Park. It is also a part of Genkai Quasi-National Park. The path is about 180 meters long. Usually takes around 15 minutes to complete at a relaxed pace. It is shaded by camellia trees whose branches stretch and meet above, forming a soft green tunnel that feels calm and enclosed. 

At the end of the path, you’ll reach a small wooden observation platform built on high ground. From there, you’ll have a sweeping view of the open surrounding Genkai Sea, the rocky cliffs and the rugged coastline of Itoshima. The deep blue water and green hills create a striking contrast. Many visitors stop here to take photos or enjoy the breeze.

Parks, Caves and Beaches

Photo by: Abhijit Sen

There is plenty more to see nearby. Keya no Oto is the park’s most striking natural landmark. It is one of Japan’s three largest basalt caves, with a huge opening of about 10 meters wide, 64 meters high and 90 meters deep. The cave has unique rock columns shaped like hexagons and octagons. These columns formed when volcanic rock cooled quickly in seawater and were later worn away slowly by the sea. Recognized as a national natural monument, it stands as one of the most remarkable coastal formations in the Genkai Quasi-National Park.

From spring to late fall, tourist boats depart from the Keya fishing port. The 25-minute journey takes visitors up close to the cave’s towering rock walls. From the water, the size of the mountains stands out even more. These steep mountains rise sharply from the Genkai Sea, showing the strong power of nature.

Photo by: Abhijit Sen

Nearby Kuroiso Beach has smooth black basalt pebbles instead of sand. It stretches along the coast, offering a long shoreline. This makes it a quiet place to walk, with wide views of the ocean.

Photo by: Abhijit Sen

Just a short walk from the forest path, a small Taiso Shrine can be found tucked beneath the trees. Marked by a simple torii gate facing the sea, it offers a quiet resting point where visitors often pause before continuing their journey.

After you explore, take some time to enjoy a cafe or eatery nearby in Itoshima. Many of these places serve fresh seafood, seasonal vegetables and simple drinks made with local ingredients. This is a great way to end a relaxing walk in nature.

Atago Shrine is located atop Mount Atago in Nishi Ward, Fukuoka City. It is one of Japan’s three major Atago Shrines, along with the well-known shrines in Kyoto and Tokyo. Surrounded by nature and overlooking Hakata Bay, it is a peaceful destination where history, faith and beautiful scenery come together. 

Atago Shrine History

Photo by: PIXTA/ Ay create

Atago Shrine has a history of nearly 1,900 years, making it one of the oldest shrines in Fukuoka. Originally referred to as Washio Shrine, this site was established during the reign of Emperor Keiko. The first deities worshipped here were the creator deity Izanagi-no-Mikoto and Ame-no-Oshihomimi-no-Mikoto. In 1634, the second lord of the Fukuoka domain brought Homusubi-no-Kami, the god of fire, from Kyoto. The mountain was then renamed Mount Atago, and in 1901 Washio Shrine and Atago Shrine officially became a single shrine. Visitors pray here for protection from fire, family safety, success in business and studies and even strength to overcome unhealthy habits such as smoking or drinking.

Highlights Around the Shrine Grounds

Photo by: Abhijit Sen

There is more to see here beyond the main shrine. The Uga Shrine is known to bring visitors business success, good luck with money, family safety, and even improved eyesight. The Inari Shrine is easy to find because of its row of bright red torii gates. People visit this shrine to pray for good harvests and prosperity. The Jizo Hall is also known as “Winning Jizo,” which is especially loved by local sports fans.

Walking through the shrine grounds is a pleasant experience, especially along the forest-lined approach or the steep Otoko-zaka, also called the “Stairway of Success.” One of the main attractions is the observation deck. Visitors can enjoy stunning views of Hakata Bay, Fukuoka Tower and the city skyline from there. The scenery is popular at sunset and at night, and it was also selected as one of the “Top 100 Night Views,” making it an excellent date spot.

After sightseeing, many visitors stop at the long-established sweet shop Iwaiya to enjoy its famous Iwai Mochi.

Festivals and Seasonal Beauty

Photo by: PIXTA/ TOSHI.K

Atago Shrine is lively year-round, hosting festivals that celebrate both tradition and nature. From late March to mid-April, the Cherry Blossom Festival draws visitors who want to see about 2,000 cherry trees in bloom. The evening lights make the scenery even more beautiful. During summer, the Hozuki Summer Festival features colorful lantern plants, family-friendly events and prayers for health and good fortune.

One special event at the shrine that happens on December 5 is the Great Fire Ritual and Fire-Walking Ceremony. After praying, participants walk barefoot across hot embers as a symbol of purification and protection. This shrine is one of the most popular places in Fukuoka to watch the first sunrise of the New Year.

Every city and town in Japan, big and small, has meibutsu (local specialties) and Kagoshima is no different. Located in Kyushu’s southernmost prefecture, Kagoshima City is famous for kurobuta (premium Blackshire pork), Sengan-en, a 17th-century traditional Japanese garden, and Sakurajima, the active volcano lying off its coast. Here are five popular souvenirs in Kagoshima that make perfect keepsakes.

1. Karukan Manju 

Photo by: PIXTA/ 毒島みるく

This traditional manju confectionery from Kagoshima uses rice flour and Japanese mountain yams. The manju are stuffed with a smooth and sweetened red bean paste and become especially light and fluffy when steamed. While this traditional sweet was originally for high society, it soon spread in popularity and continues to be sought after as a souvenir from the area. Try fresh karukan manju during the autumn and winter when the yams are newly harvested.    

• Price: ¥648 (set of 4) 
• Website

2. Satsuma Imo Tart

Photo by: Elizabeth Sok

This Western-style tart features a cookie-crust made with almond powder and filled with sweet potato paste produced from 100% Kagoshima-grown sweet potatoes. The tart also comes in two varieties—white sweet potatoes (Beni Satsuma and Beni Haruka) and purple sweet potatoes (Ayamurasaki). The creamy sweet potato filling has a simple, natural sweetness that makes excellent use of Kagoshima’s bounty. This omiyage is also popular for its cute shape since the filling looks like a flower.

• Price: ¥880 (set of 8) 
• Website

3. Satsuma Kurobou

Photo by: Elizabeth Sok

Satsuma Kurobo is a traditional brown sugar confectionery. Using baking dough, these sweets are made from flour and eggs, then soaked generously in brown or black sugar syrup before drying. It is popular for its bite-sized pieces, crisp texture and the simple, rich sweetness of brown sugar. It pairs perfectly with green tea and coffee.

• Price: ¥320 
• Website

4. Bontaname

Photo by: WikiCommons/ hashi photo

Manufactured and sold since the Taisho era, this confectionery is a one-of-a-kind mix of soft candy and caramel. Its base ingredients are starch syrup, sugar, maltose and glutinous rice. The candy’s unique flavor stems from the combination of bontan oil extracted from a pomelo citrus and southern Kyushu-grown mikan oranges. It is a beloved Kagoshima treat. 

• Price: ¥120 (set of 10 pieces)
• Website

5. Yakushima Soft Gummy 

Photo by: Elizabeth Sok 

Yakushima, famous for its beautiful and ancient cedar forests, is also home to tankan, a natural citrus hybrid of navel orange and ponkan. It is a juicy fruit with a vibrant orange color, soft flesh, and strong sweetness. These gummy candies use 100% straight tankan juice and have a pleasing soft texture.  

• Price: ¥270 
• Website

Located in the northeastern corner of Japan’s Tohoku region, Iwate Prefecture is the country’s second-largest prefecture and also its least densely populated. Framed by Japan’s longest mountain range to the west and the rugged cliffs of the Sanriku Coast to the east, its dramatic landscape produces everything from premium beef to high-quality dairy products. However, Iwate is most famous for its legendary noodle culture. These famous foods you’ll find in Iwate showcase some of the prefecture’s most iconic flavors. 

1. Wanko Soba

Photo by: PIXTA/ Naoto TAKAHASHI

Few dining experiences in Japan feel as lively as wanko soba. Originating in Morioka, this unique meal sees servers rapidly refill small bowls of soba noodles until diners signal that they are finished. Although the experience feels playful and competitive, chefs carefully make the noodles using buckwheat flour and serve them with toppings like green onions, grated daikon and mushrooms. Many restaurants also display commemorative certificates for guests who eat more than 100 bowls, turning the meal into a memorable local tradition.

2. Morioka Reimen

Photo by: PIXTA/ Ayleeds

Morioka reimen is one of Iwate’s most famous noodle dishes, especially during the humid summer months. Restaurants serve chewy translucent noodles in a chilled beef-based broth topped with sliced cucumber, boiled egg and spicy kimchi. Many also add seasonal fruit such as watermelon or a pear, for extra sweetness and contrast. Taking inspiration from Korean cold noodles, Morioka reimen developed its own regional identity and is now considered one of Morioka’s signature dishes.

3. Maezawa Beef

Photo by: PIXTA/ mintsmile1173

Maezawa beef is one of Japan’s most highly regarded wagyu brands. Farmers typically raise cattle for nearly three years, significantly longer than standard beef cattle. This extended rearing period helps develop the beef’s rich marbling, tender texture and deep umami flavor. Restaurants across Iwate serve it as yakiniku, steak or sukiyaki, while specialty butcher shops sell premium cuts that rival better-known brands like Kobe beef.

4. Morioka Jajamen

Photo by: PIXTA/ ささざわ

Morioka jajamen is all about personal customization and has become one of Morioka’s most beloved comfort foods. The dish features thick, flat wheat noodles topped with rich meat miso, crisp cucumber, scallions and ginger. Diners mix everything together, then adjust the flavor to their liking with vinegar, garlic, or chili oil. Once most of the noodles are gone, diners crack a raw egg into the remaining sauce. Staff then add hot noodle broth to create chitantan, a light and comforting soup served as the final course. Originally inspired by the Chinese dish zhajiangmian, jajamen has evolved into a legendary local obsession you can’t leave Morioka without trying.

5. Koiwai Farm Dairy Products

Photo by: PIXTA/ けんさん

Founded in 1891 beneath Mount Iwate, Koiwai Farm produces some of Japan’s most celebrated dairy products. The farm supplies premium milk, drinkable yogurt and ice cream to supermarkets across the country. Visitors can tour the estate, sample fresh-churned butter and indulge in seasonal sweets.

Which of these famous foods you’ll find in Iwate do you want to try? Explore our Famous Foods in Japan series to discover what to try next!

Located in Kyoto’s Higashiyama district, just a short distance from the heavily crowded Kiyomizu-dera, Chishaku-in Temple offers a peaceful 60,000-square-meter escape. As the head temple of the Chisan School of Shingon Buddhism, it oversees roughly 3,000 branch temples in Japan. It began in the 13th century as a sub-temple of Negoro-ji in Wakayama Prefecture. In 1585, the warlord Hideyoshi Toyotomi ordered the forceful destruction of Negoro-ji. Following this, Shogun Ieyasu Tokugawa delegated the chief priest Genyu to reconstruct the temple in Kyoto in 1601. Today, Chishaku-in remains a prominent center of learning for monks and continues to foster education in the Chisan Senshu Gakuen within its complex.

Featured Buildings

Photo by: Alma Reyes

The temple grounds include numerous buildings, including the Daisho-in Hall, Kodo Lecture Hall, Kondo Main Hall, Myo-o Hall, Taishi-do Hall, Treasure Museum and accommodation facilities. 

The Daisho-in (Grand Drawing Room) which faces the exquisite traditional garden and pond, is an outstanding example of seamless, aesthetic shoin-zukuri architecture. The raised veranda, decorative woodwork delicately maintained tatami-mat rooms and gorgeous paintings in striking colors make a breathtaking sight. Designated as a National Treasure, the lavish kinpeki shoheki-ga (sliding screen paintings on a gold background) were painted in the late 16th century by Tohaku Hasegawa and his son Kyuzo. They depict vibrant scenes of cherry blossoms, hollyhocks, maple trees and snow-covered pine trees. The ostentatious art blends harmoniously with the sublime exterior landscape—a priceless setting that visitors purposely come to see.

Connected to the Daisho-in, the Kodo Lecture Hall features gentle black-ink paintings on the fusuma throughout its five rooms. Modern artist Toshio Tabuchi created them to interpret the four seasons. The masterpieces also include “Waterfall” (Important Cultural Property) from the Southern Song Dynasty and “Kannon on Lotus Petal,” presented to the temple by Shogun Tsunayoshi Tokugawa.

Chinese-inspired Garden

Photo by: Alma Reyes

Visitors sit inside the Daisho-in and gaze out at the celebrated strolling oasis, designated a National Place of Scenic Beauty. The respected tea master Sen no Rikyu greatly favored the landscape of Mount Lu in China. Consequently, in the 16th century, the temple built an artificial hill to represent the mountain’s rugged, mystical terrain. The pond mirrors the Yangtze River and extends beneath the hall verandas, creating the illusion that the building is afloat. Meticulously arranged rocks, stone water basins and a waterfall echo the motifs of old Chinese scroll paintings.

Hydrangea Garden

Visitors can wander along winding pathways full of beautiful hydrangeas in the garden behind the Kondo Hall. Pink, blue and purple blooms explode in early summer, while red plum blossoms emerge in spring.

Every summer, the mountains of Wakayama host the Nachi Fire Festival (Nachi-no-Ogi Matsuri), one of Japan’s most awe-inspiring spiritual events. Held at Kumano Nachi Taisha, near the coastal town of Nachi-Katsuura, the festival transforms the shrine grounds into a spectacle of fire and devotion.

One of Japan’s three major fire festivals, this centuries-old Shinto ritual combines towering flames, sacred traditions and spectacular scenery, revealing the Kii Peninsula’s deep-rooted connection to nature worship.

Nachi Fire Festival

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The Nachi Fire Festival marks the annual grand festival (Reitaisai) of Kumano Nachi Taisha, the head shrine that stands before Nachi Falls. In Shinto belief, water is the source of all creation. Here, worshippers revere the 133-meter waterfall as a living embodiment of the divine.

According to legend, Emperor Jimmu was the first to recognize the waterfall’s sacred nature. Later, in 317 CE, a permanent shrine pavilion was built halfway up Mount Nachi. The modern Ogi Matsuri commemorates this founding. During the ritual, the 12 deities of Kumano are temporarily returned to Hiro Shrine. At the base of the falls, prayers are offered for renewal, abundant harvests and the well-being of the local community.

Kumano Nachi Taisha is one of the three sacred shrines that make up the Kumano Sanzan. Visitors from across Japan and around the world come to experience this UNESCO World Heritage pilgrimage destination, drawn by its spiritual significance, historic walking trails and iconic waterfall views.

Festival Activities

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The festival begins with the Nachi Dengaku dance, a sacred performance dating back to 1403. Recognized by UNESCO as Intangible Cultural Heritage, the rhythmic dance honors local deities before the main purification ritual. Only those who practice the Dengaku tradition can handle the sacred objects used throughout the ceremony.

The day’s most dramatic spectacle features twelve colossal flaming pine torches (O-taimatsu). Crafted from cypress, each weighs up to 50 kilograms. The torches, carried by men in white robes, descend the shrine’s ancient stone steps. Their intense heat and shower of embers purify the route for the Ogi Mikoshi, both physically and spiritually.

The portable shrines have bronze mirrors, cedar ornaments and folding fans with crimson sun discs. Their distinctive vertical design evokes the cascading waters of Nachi Falls. Against the backdrop of roaring flames, the procession is one of Japan’s most exhilarating expressions of Shinto tradition.

Every July 13 to 16, thousands of glowing lanterns illuminate the grounds of Tokyo’s Yasukuni Shrine for the Mitama Festival. Established in 1947 in the aftermath of World War II, this is one of the city’s largest Obon celebrations, a traditional period when Japanese families honor the spirits of their ancestors. Derived from the Japanese word mitama (honored spirit or soul), the festival blends solemn religious remembrance with the energetic atmosphere of a summer matsuri (festival).

Mitama Festival

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Founded in 1869, Yasukuni Shrine commemorates over 2.4 million people who died in service to Japan, primarily during World War II.

As all of Japan’s war dead (including convicted war criminals) are enshrined here, the location remains one of the most politically sensitive and controversial sites in East Asia. Consequently, the festival exists in a unique cultural space: a site of deep national mourning and geopolitical tension, yet also a joyous community gathering that draws thousands of visitors.

The festival’s defining feature is its visual tribute to the deceased. More than 30,000 yellow lanterns line the shrine’s massive approach, acting as symbolic beacons to guide the spirits back to the living world. While citizens and local businesses donate the smaller lanterns, public figures, celebrities and athletes contribute larger lanterns adorned with custom artwork and calligraphy. Although events take place throughout the day, most visitors arrive after sunset to see the shrine grounds illuminated by thousands of lanterns. 

Festival Activities

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The Mitama Festival combines religious observances with many of the traditions associated with a Japanese summer matsuri. While ceremonies take place inside the shrine, the grounds are full of food stalls, folk dancing and cultural performances.

Each evening, Shinto priests conduct ceremonies at the main sanctuary to honor the enshrined spirits. Outside, visitors can browse rows of yatai (festival food stalls), watch performances and join Bon Odori dances.

On the first day, a Nebuta float from Aomori Prefecture (associated with the Nebuta Festival) appears alongside an Awa Odori dance procession from Tokushima. The second day of the festival features traditional performances on the outdoor Noh stage, followed by a mikoshi (portable shrine) procession through the grounds. Finally, the festival concludes with a Kagura performance, a sacred Shinto dance featuring stories drawn from Japanese mythology.

Escape to a serene temple away from the relentless crowds in Kyoto at Konchi-in Temple. As a sub-temple of the larger and more popular Nanzenji, it was founded in the early 15th century and relocated from Fushimi Momoyama Castle to its current location around 1605. The temple daimyo monk Ishin Suden (1569-1633) was a powerful advisor to Shoguns Ieyasu Tokugawa and Hidetaka Tokugawa. Consequently, he wielded profound sway over other temples and shrines.

Crane and Turtle Garden

Photo by: Alma Reyes

The distinguished tea master, painter, and garden curator Enshu Kobori (1579-1647) designed the famous garden in 1632. You can survey the expansive karesansui (dry landscape garden) from the engawa (veranda) of the Hojo main building. The sweep of white sand dominates the foreground, symbolizing an open sea. At the center, a rectangular rock is dedicated to Toshogu Shrine. The Turtle Island symbolizes resilience, perseverance and longevity, while the Crane Island on the far right elicits peace, happiness and good fortune. Between the islands, a triad rock arrangement, “Sanzon,” depicts Mount Horai on a cliff. The surrounding stones mirror “islands of immortals,” and a cluster of pruned trees emphasizes the depth of a mountain valley. The garden is a designated Special Place of Scenic Beauty by the Japanese government.

Benten Pond

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Adjacent to the landscape garden, floating water lilies fill an enchanting pond. The small Benten Shrine honors the goddess of water, wealth, wisdom and music. A lush waterfall cascades from behind the pond and flows through the Crane and Turtle Garden. The scenic backdrop reflects the profound elements of Zen and Shinto traditions.

Main Abbott’s Building

This large hall, designated an Important Cultural Property, showcases the elegant aspects of traditional Zen architecture. Visitors can admire the highly esteemed “fusuma” sliding-door paintings by the Kano School, as well as the stunning “Monkeys Reaching for the Moon” and “Old Pine Tree” masterpieces by Tohaku Hasegawa inside the “Hasso-seki” (Eight-Window Tea Room). A guide provides a thorough history and description of the building and temple grounds. 

Toshogu Shrine

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From the rock garden, a wooded path leads to Toshogu Shrine. The shrine serves as a mausoleum for Ieyasu Tokugawa. Inside, you can spot his encased hair, the famous “Roaring Dragon” ceiling painting by Kano Tan’yu, and the gold portraits of the “Thirty-Six Immortal Poets” by Mitsuoki Tosa. The garden behind the shrine features additional halls and various flowering trees, particularly hydrangeas, which create a spectacular sight during the blooming season.

Fukui Prefecture is home to the cliffs of Tojinbo, Zen temples and Maruoka Castle. The prefecture is also referred to as Japan’s dinosaur kingdom, thanks to the many fossils discovered here. Beyond the scenery, Fukui serves up dishes shaped by icy ocean currents and fertile mountain valleys. Here are five famous foods you’ll find in Fukui.

1. Echizen Crab

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No food defines winter in Fukui quite like Echizen crab, one of Japan’s most prestigious snow crab varieties. Caught off the rugged Echizen Coast between November and March, these prized crabs have a dense yet sweet flavor. To protect the brand’s reputation, local fisheries attach a distinctive yellow tag to every certified male crab. Across Fukui, inns and seafood restaurants prepare Echizen crab in a variety of ways, from sashimi to hotpots.

2. Fukui Sake

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If you want to experience the flavors of Fukui in a glass, sake brands across the region deliver exactly that. Heavy winter snowfall around Mount Hakusan filters underground and supplies local breweries with exceptionally clean, mineral-rich water. Combined with local Gohyakumangoku sake rice, historic breweries in areas like Eiheiji and Ono craft a regional style celebrated for its crisp, dry profile and smooth finish. World-class local brands like Kokuryu and Born produce sake designed to pair perfectly with the rich umami of winter delicacies like Echizen crab.

3. Habutae Mochi

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Originally inspired by Fukui’s historic silk industry, this mochi takes its name from habutae, a smooth silk fabric once produced throughout the prefecture. The sweet combines glutinous rice flour, sugar and syrup to create an exceptionally soft, silky texture that almost melts in your mouth. Visitors can find it everywhere from souvenir shops around Fukui Station to long-running confectionery stores and cafes serving modern versions topped with seasonal fruit, whipped cream, or ice cream. Popular flavors range from the classic plain mochi to matcha, strawberry and chestnut fillings.

4. Volga Rice

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Volga rice is arguably one of Fukui’s best Japanese-Western comfort foods. Popular in Echizen City, this dish layers fried rice beneath a thin omelet, then tops it with a crispy, breaded pork cutlet and a rich demi-glace sauce made from beef stock and red wine. While it shares similarities with classic omurice, the addition of tonkatsu and the heavier sauce make it a far more indulgent meal. Restaurants across Fukui often put their own spin on the dish, adding toppings like seafood, cheese or creamy sauces.

5. Echizen Oroshi Soba

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This Fukui specialty features thick buckwheat noodles with a firm, chewy texture and a stronger, earthier flavor than most soba varieties. The dish dates back to the 1470s, when buckwheat became an important, quick-growing crop in the region. Today, many shops still stone-grind the buckwheat whole before serving the noodles in a light soy-based broth with grated daikon radish, green onions and bonito flakes. You can find Echizen oroshi soba in everything from small family-run noodle shops to larger, long-established soba restaurants.

What did you think of our five famous foods you’ll find in Fukui roundup? Check out our Famous Foods in Japan series for the top dishes from across the country.

The World Cosplay Summit (WCS) in Nagoya is one of the world’s largest international cosplay festivals. This event brings together cosplayers and anime, manga and video game fans from around the globe. In 2003, TV Aichi created the event to highlight growing interest in popular Japanese culture. The first event had only five international cosplayers attend but has grown to nearly 250,000 visitors, including attendees from over 40 countries. The main events are held at Nagoya’s Oasis 21.

World Cosplay Championship

Photo by: World Cosplay Summit

One of the key features of the event is the World Cosplay Championship. This is an international competition in which teams representing their countries hold performances based on Japanese anime or video game characters. 

The championship began in 2005 and has become the centerpiece of the festival. Competitors are judged on craftsmanship, creativity, accuracy, and stage performance. Beyond the competition, WCS offers stage shows, photo opportunities, workshops, exhibitions, concerts, guest appearances, and fan events. 

The World Cosplay Summit Parade

Photo by: World Cosplay Summit

The summit also has a parade. Here, cosplayers start their march around Osu Kannon Temple and go through the Osu Shopping District. Approximately 1,000 cosplayers participated in previous parades.

From its humble beginnings in 2003 to an event attracting more than a quarter of a million visitors and participants from over 40 countries, WCS has become a symbol of the worldwide influence of Japanese pop culture and the creativity of cosplay communities.

Hidden in Wakayama Prefecture, Kamikura Shrine is one of Japan’s most powerful spiritual sites. Unlike large shrines with grand buildings, this sacred site feels simple and ancient. It is believed to be the place where the gods of Kumano first descended to earth, making it the birthplace of the Kumano faith. The shrine is part of the UNESCO-listed Kumano Kodo pilgrimage routes. It continues to attract travelers, pilgrims, and nature lovers from around the world.

Climbing the 538 Stone Steps

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To get to Kamikura Shrine, you have to climb a steep mountain with about 538 rough stone steps. Minamoto no Yoritomo, the first shogun of Japan, donated it during the Kamakura period. This staircase is both beautiful and difficult. It usually takes about 20 to 30 minutes to climb this staircase.

As visitors slowly ascend, the atmosphere becomes quieter and more spiritual. Surrounded by trees and stone walls, the path feels timeless, almost unchanged from centuries ago.

The Sacred Gotobiki Rock

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At the top of the mountain is a huge sacred rock called Gotobiki-iwa. It is the main center of worship at this Kamikura temple. The name Gotobiki means “frog” in the local language, as the rock resembles a giant frog. This ancient rock rises high above the small temple, leaving visitors amazed.

Ancient people believed that gods lived within this rock, and it remains a symbol of nature worship in Japan to this day. According to Japanese mythology, this is also the site associated with Emperor Jimmu’s eastern expedition. The simple yet powerful setting gives visitors a rare chance to experience the roots of Shinto belief in its purest form.

Oto Festival

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Visitors who make the climb can enjoy one of the finest views in Shingu. From the open area near the shrine, visitors can see the city below, the Kumano River, and the wide blue waters of the Kumano Sea. Sunrise and sunset are especially beautiful, filling the landscape with warm golden light.

Kamikura Shrine hosts its annual Oto Festival on February 6. During this ancient fire festival, thousands of men dressed in white robes carry flaming torches and race down the steep stone steps in the darkness. The fiery procession is one of Japan’s most popular traditional festivals.

A visit to Kamikura Shrine is more than sightseeing. It is a chance to feel the deep connection between nature, history and spirituality that has shaped the Kumano faith for over a thousand years.

Takayama Inari Shrine, or the “Fushimi Inari of the north,” is believed to have been erected by the powerful Ando clan that governed the Tsugaru region in Aomori from the Kamakura to the Muromachi period. Here, see hundreds of torii (shrine) gates undulating like a dragon along about 1.3 kilometers uphill.

Takayama Inari Shrine History

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Around 1443, the Ando clan’s revered prayer site was destroyed by fire during a conflict with the Nambu forces. A legend states that in 1701, samurai Terasaka Sangoro carried a sacred object of the Inari Okami Shinto goddess to Hirosaki Castle in Tsugaru, and later transferred it to Takayama, where the original Sanno Shrine was enshrined. 

Takayama Inari Shrine is dedicated to three deities: Uka-no-Mitama-no-Mikoto (goddess of agriculture), Sata-Hiko-no-Mikoto (god of guidance) and Omiya-no-Me-no-Mikoto (goddess of performing arts). It also offers divine blessings for abundant harvest, maritime safety and prosperity. Farmers and business owners often visit the shrine to pray for good fortune in their trades. 

Features and Structures

Photo by: PIXTA/ 渡邊トシ

The vast grounds sprawl on a hill with multiple elevations, making it a perfect hiking trail. From the lower entrance, visitors can reach the main shrine by a steep staircase or by a slope. From the top landing, the walkways split in directions toward overlooking decks and other shrine buildings, including the Yonoko Inari Shrine, Kumagoro Shrine and the haiden main hall, which sits atop a hill. The historical Sanno Shrine lies further ahead. The top of its gate illustrates symbols of the wind and waves. 

The Ryujingu Shrine

The Ryujingu Shrine marks the starting point of the serpentine course of luminous gates. Two radiant vermilion bridges border the small shrine. Worshippers stop here also to honor the dragon god, which inspired the convoluted pattern of the famous torii gates.

Torii Gate Corridor

Now begins the challenging trek through the snakelike Senbon Torii (thousand torii gates) corridor. Over time, new gates have been continuously added through donations from patrons. The gravel path gently inclines, so a slow, leisurely pace is recommended to take in the vistas of the landscaped lake on the left and lush forest on the right. At the end of the meandering footpath, an elevated platform offers a view of the entire  “scarlet dragon” amid the expansive terrain. 

Behind the deck is the Shinmei Shrine, unembellished in plain wood. Worshippers offer prayers to stone statues of fox messengers, who represent the protectors of the Inari Kami. More than a hundred of them are scattered in this area.

Bringing together the Hida mountains and the pure Nagara River, Gifu Prefecture sits between Tokyo and Osaka. Its landscapes and samurai history shape its food culture. Local food here is rooted in the land and rivers, shaped by mountain harvests, fresh river fish, and long-standing traditions passed down through generations. These famous foods you’ll find in Gifu showcase the flavors that define the region.

1. Hida Beef

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Hida beef is one of Japan’s most prized wagyu varieties, known for its rich marbling and tender texture. Black-haired cattle are raised in the mountains of northern Gifu, where clean air and cold winters help develop especially well-marbled meat. While available year-round, it tastes best in winter, when cattle naturally build more fat. In Takayama and the Hida region, visitors can enjoy it as yakiniku, sushi, steak, or simple salted skewers that highlight the beef’s quality.

2. Ayu Sweetfish

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The Nagara River, one of Japan’s three great pristine rivers, is home to ayu sweetfish. These river fish feed on natural algae, giving them a clean, lightly sweet flavor often compared to melon. In summer, locals grill them whole over charcoal with salt and enjoy them at riverside restaurants along the river. Gifu also preserves ukai, a 1,300-year-old cormorant fishing tradition led by trained usho masters whose skills are passed down through generations. Recognized as an Intangible Cultural Property, it still attracts visitors, alongside seasonal yana fishing from June to October. 

3. Kei-chan Chicken

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Kei-chan began in Gifu’s mountain communities as a way for families to use chickens no longer needed for eggs. Over time, each household developed its own marinade, which explains the wide variety of local styles today. The dish features bite-sized chicken stir-fried with cabbage in a soy or miso-based sauce, creating a smoky, savory aroma. In areas like Meiho, it remains a local favorite served in restaurants and sold as takeaway near stations.

4. Persimmons

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Gifu is a major producer of persimmons, especially the crisp Fuyu variety known for its honey-like sweetness. In autumn, orchards across the region fill with bright orange fruit, while fresh persimmons appear in markets, roadside stations and cafes. Locals also dry them into hoshigaki, a winter delicacy with an intense, concentrated flavor. Chefs use persimmons in cakes, jellies, salads, and savory dishes, adding natural sweetness across both desserts and seasonal cooking. 

5. Takayama Ramen

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Also known as Hida ramen, Takayama ramen developed in the old merchant town of Takayama. Chefs prepare a light soy-based broth with chicken and seafood stocks, creating a clear yet aromatic broth. They serve it with thin curly noodles that absorb the soup, topped with bamboo shoots, green onions and slices of pork for balance and texture. In small shops across Takayama’s historic streets, cooks often prepare the broth in front of guests, filling the air with the scent of simmering stock. 

What did you think of these famous foods you’ll find in Gifu? Discover more local favorites in our Famous Foods in Japan series.

On the southern coast of Sado Island lies the small historic village of Shukunegi Village. It is a place where narrow alleys, wooden houses, and the scent of the sea still preserve the atmosphere of old Japan. Sado Island is on the Sea of Japan. It is about 45 kilometers from the coast of Niigata Prefecture, and you can easily reach it by ferry.

Shukunegi flourished from the late Edo period into the Meiji era as a port connected to the Kitamaebune trade route. Merchant ships traveled along the Sea of Japan carrying rice, seafood, sake and other goods between Osaka and Hokkaido. Because Sado’s gold and silver mines were highly active during this time, the island became an important stopping point for trade, and Shukunegi grew wealthy through shipping and shipbuilding.

The Famous Triangle House

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The streets of Shukunegi are a maze of narrow cobblestone streets winding through rows of traditional wooden houses. It seems untouched by modern life. More than 100 houses remain in the settlement, and many people still live in them.

The most famous of these is Sankakuya, also known as the Triangle House. Local shipbuilders designed it, using their boat-building skills for the architecture. Its unusual triangular structure has become a symbol of Shukunegi and attracts many visitors every year. Inside, the steep staircase and small rooms show how every inch of space has been carefully used.

The village is recognized as an Important Preservation District for Groups of Traditional Buildings. This helps to protect not only the houses but also the day-to-day life that continues here.

Sado Island’s Maritime History

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The Sado Ogi Folk Museum, located just outside the village, preserves the history of southern Sado. The former wooden elementary school, built in the 1920s, currently houses the museum.

Inside are thousands of folk tools, fishing equipment and shipbuilding materials that tell the story of the people who once worked on this coast. Its main attraction is a full-scale replica of the Hakusan Maru. It is a large wooden cargo ship built based on historical documents from Shukunegi. Visitors can board the ship, explore its interior and get an idea of what seafaring was like in the Edo period.

Tub Boats

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A short distance from the village, the coast around the Yajima Experience Exchange Center offers another side of Sado’s charm. Here, visitors can ride traditional tub boats in the calm waters between Yajima and Kyojima islands. Fishermen originally used these round wooden boats for fishing along rocky coastlines where larger boats could not easily pass. The bright red bridge connecting the small islands creates a beautiful contrast against the sea, making the area especially photogenic.

Landlocked Yamanashi Prefecture sits just west of Tokyo in the Chubu region, shaped by the northern reaches of Mount Fuji and the Fuji Five Lakes area. Surrounded by mountains and known for its orchards and vineyards, the prefecture has built a food culture around seasonal produce. From regional noodles to premium fruit and sweets, try these famous foods you’ll find in Yamanashi.

1. Hoto

Photo by: PIXTA/ shige hattori

No dish defines Yamanashi more than hoto, a hotpot of thick flat noodles simmered in rich miso broth with pumpkin, mushrooms, carrots and cabbage. The pumpkin gives the soup its smooth texture and gentle sweetness. Although it resembles udon, hoto has a denser texture that locals consider entirely distinct. Farming communities across the region created the dish as a warming winter meal, and today, restaurants also serve versions with wild boar or spicy curry-based broths.

2. Koshu Wine

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Yamanashi Prefecture leads Japan’s wine industry, with vineyards stretching across the Kofu Basin and around Katsunuma, the country’s best-known winemaking area. Producers here have cultivated Koshu grapes for centuries, creating light white wines with subtle citrus flavors and a crisp finish that pairs naturally with Japanese cuisine. Around Katsunuma, visitors can tour historic family-run estates and sample sparkling wines, rich reds, and elegant Koshu whites. Harvest season in autumn draws large crowds as the vineyards turn shades of gold and deep purple.

3. Shine Muscat

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Yamanashi also grows some of Japan’s most sought-after Shine Muscat grapes, known for their floral aroma and intense sweetness. Unlike many grape varieties, Shine Muscats have thin edible skin and almost no bitterness, giving them a crisp, juicy bite. In late summer and early autumn, orchards around the prefecture open for grape-picking experiences, while department stores and souvenir shops sell beautifully boxed bunches as high-end gifts that can cost tens of thousands of yen. Their popularity has also inspired Shine Muscat sweets and desserts sold across Yamanashi.

4. Yoshida Udon

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Fujiyoshida is home to Yoshida udon, a local noodle dish known for its extra-firm, chewy texture. The thick noodles are usually served in a soy and miso-based broth topped with cabbage, green onions, and thinly sliced horse meat or beef. Unlike softer udon found in other parts of Japan, Yoshida udon has a dense bite that developed as an affordable, filling meal for textile workers in the area. Many local shops still make the noodles fresh each morning and serve them with spicy miso paste for added heat and depth.

5. Shingen Mochi

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Named after the samurai Takeda Shingen, Shingen mochi combines soft, chewy rice cakes with roasted soybean flour and thick black sugar syrup. The kinako gives the sweet a nutty aroma, while the syrup adds a deep caramel-like richness. Shops across Yamanashi sell it in neatly packaged souvenir boxes, especially at train stations and roadside stops. Cafes have also created modern versions though the traditional combination remains the most popular.

Have you heard of any of these famous foods you’ll find in Yamanashi? Discover more local favorites in our Famous Foods in Japan series.