Nagatoro Keikoku

Nagatoro Gorge is located in Nagatoro Town, Saitama Prefecture, and is a famous natural scenic spot and summer retreat in the Kanto region. Shaped by the Arakawa River over many years, the gorge features spectacular rock formations known as “Iwadatami” and has been selected as one of the “Top 100 Geological Sites of Japan.” Every summer, the clear emerald-green stream flows alongside lush greenery, creating a refreshing landscape that attracts many tourists and photography enthusiasts. The highlight of visiting Nagatoro Gorge is taking a ride on a traditional wooden boat called “Funakudari”, drifting down the river while enjoying the stunning…

Sakurajima Volcano

Rising from the waters of Kagoshima Bay in southern Kyushu, Sakurajima is one of the most active volcanoes in the world and a striking symbol of Kagoshima. Once an island, it became connected to the Osumi Peninsula after a powerful eruption in 1914, forming what is now a dramatic volcanic peninsula. With constant volcanic smoke, rich geological features, and a resilient community living in harmony with nature, Sakurajima offers a powerful blend of natural wonder and human perseverance. Each season brings a new face to Sakurajima: cherry blossoms bloom beneath smoky skies in spring, dramatic eruptions light up the summer…

Asahidake

Located in the heart of Daisetsuzan National Park, Asahidake is the tallest mountain in Hokkaido, standing proudly at 2,291 meters. This active volcano has long been revered as the “Mountain of the Gods” by the indigenous Ainu people. Each season paints a distinct landscape: lingering snow and fresh greenery in spring, hiking and alpine blooms in summer, fiery autumn foliage, and world-class snow sports in winter. Asahidake is one of Japan’s rare natural destinations that can be enjoyed year-round. One of the most iconic experiences at Asahidake is riding the Asahidake Ropeway, which takes visitors from the base to Sugatami…

Kibune Kawadoko at Kifune Shrine

Kibune Kawadoko at Kifune Shrine Located in the mountainous northern area of Kyoto, Kifune Shrine is a historic and serene shrine famous for enshrining the deity of water. Every summer, the Kawadoko (riverside dining platforms) set up by traditional inns and restaurants around the shrine become one of the most iconic summer experiences in Kyoto. Kawadoko refers to tatami platforms built over a flowing stream, allowing guests to dine beside the murmuring water and enjoy the cool mountain breeze—both a refreshing and elegant way to escape the summer heat. What makes Kibune’s Kawadoko special is that the platforms are set…

Soga Plum Grove

Soga Plum Grove is located in Odawara City, Kanagawa Prefecture, and is one of the most famous plum blossom viewing spots in the Kanto region. Around 35,000 plum trees, mostly white blossoms, bloom from early February to early March, creating a dreamy white floral landscape with Mount Fuji as a stunning backdrop. Thanks to its long history and scenic beauty, the grove attracts large numbers of tourists and photography enthusiasts every year. Soga Plum Grove consists of three main areas: Bessho, Nakagawara, and Hara, collectively known as the Soga Three Plum Groves. In addition to plum viewing, visitors can enjoy…

Kumejima

Kumejima is a beautiful island located in Okinawa Prefecture, Japan. Situated about 100 kilometers west of Okinawa’s main island in the East China Sea, it is renowned for its pristine nature, rich culture, and abundant marine resources. Known as the “Most Beautiful Island of the Ryukyu Islands,” Kumejima stands out as one of the most picturesque and historically significant islands in the Okinawa archipelago. The island boasts spectacular coastlines, crystal-clear blue waters, pristine white beaches, and vibrant coral ecosystems. Notable attractions on Kumejima include Hate no Hama, a pure white sandbar located off the coast, which is an excellent spot…

Nusamai Bridge

Nusamai Bridge is located in Kushiro City, on the eastern side of Hokkaido, Japan. It is a historic bridge spanning the Kushiro River and is one of the most iconic tourist attractions in the area. The bridge is renowned for its elegant design, the changing natural scenery of the four seasons, and its breathtaking sunset views, which are considered one of Japan’s top 100 sunset spots. It is a romantic landmark, cherished by couples, photography enthusiasts, and travelers alike. Originally built in 1900, the current Nusamai Bridge is the fifth-generation structure, completed in 1976. It spans 124 meters and connects…

Maruyama Park

Maruyama Park is located in Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto City, and is one of the oldest parks in Kyoto. It is renowned for its rich cultural background and beautiful natural scenery throughout the four seasons, especially as a famous cherry blossom viewing spot in spring. Established in 1886, the park sits right next to the famous Yasaka Shrine and is conveniently located, making it a popular rest area for both locals and tourists exploring the Gion and Kiyomizu-dera areas. Maruyama Park offers unique charm in every season. In spring, the cherry blossoms bloom in full glory, especially the weeping cherry tree,…

Matsushima Bay

Matsushima Bay, located in Matsushima Town in central Miyagi Prefecture, Japan, is a coastal scenic area that blends natural wonder with historical charm. It is renowned as one of the “Three Most Scenic Spots of Japan” (Nihon Sankei), alongside Amanohashidate in Kyoto and Miyajima in Hiroshima. The name “Matsushima” means “pine islands,” referring to the approximately 260 pine-covered islets scattered throughout the bay, formed by tectonic activity and erosion over centuries. Matsushima Bay offers a distinct beauty in every season. In spring, cherry blossoms bloom alongside verdant pine trees. Summer brings refreshing sea breezes, perfect for sightseeing cruises. Autumn features…

Sankeien Garden

Located in Yokohama City, Kanagawa Prefecture, Sankeien Garden is a famous sightseeing spot that beautifully blends traditional Japanese garden aesthetics with historical architecture. This stunning garden was created by businessman Tomitaro Hara (known as Hara Sankei) and opened to the public in 1906. Spanning approximately 17.5 hectares, Sankeien is renowned for its exquisite chisen-kaiyushiki (pond-centered strolling garden) design and a number of historic buildings relocated from across Japan, creating a serene and elegant atmosphere. Sankeien offers different charms throughout the four seasons: cherry blossoms bloom in spring, lush greenery fills the garden in summer, brilliant autumn foliage colors the landscape…

Yamashita Park

Yamashita Park Located in Yokohama’s Naka Ward, Kanagawa Prefecture, Japan, Yamashita Park is a seaside park that beautifully blends urban landscapes with natural scenery, overlooking Tokyo Bay. The park opened in 1930 and was built on reclaimed land as part of the reconstruction efforts following the Great Kanto Earthquake. Today, it stands as one of Yokohama’s most iconic and beloved tourist attractions. Adjacent to Yokohama Port and the famous Yamashita Pier, the park offers vast ocean views and lush green spaces, making it a perfect retreat for both locals and visitors. Yamashita Park is a pleasant place to stroll and…

Mt. Yaetake

Mt. Yaetake is famous for its cherry blossom season from mid-January to late February. Due to its subtropical climate, it is one of the earliest cherry blossoms in Japan. Located on the Motobu Peninsula in the northern part of the main island of Okinawa, it is located at an altitude of 453 meters above sea level, making it the northernmost mountain landscape of Okinawa. More than 7,000 cherry trees are planted on both sides of the 7-kilometer road from the mountainside to the summit, forming the longest cherry blossom tunnel in Japan, and has been listed as one of the…