Shiroyama Hachimangū （All）

Shiroyama Hachimangū Shiroyama Hachimangū, also known as Shiroyama Hakusan, is a Shinto shrine located in the city of Nagoya, central Japan. The shrine is located on the premises of the ruined Suemori Castle. The castle itself dates back to the 16th century. The shrine hosts night-time festivals (matsuri) in both July and October, featuring traditional Japanese music and dance performances. An unusual feature is a sacred Marital Tree, whose trunk split into two parts and grew back together at a later time. This tree is worshipped as a symbol of happy marriage and restoration of relationships. Access by public transport…

Takayama Old Town in Nagoya （All）

Takayama Old Town Takayama Old Town, located in the Hida region of Gifu Prefecture, Japan, is a beautifully preserved historical district that offers a captivating glimpse into traditional Japanese architecture and culture. This charming town is known for its well-preserved Edo-period (1603-1868) streets, wooden merchant houses, and an authentic atmosphere that transports visitors back in time. The old town is characterized by its narrow streets, lined with sake breweries, traditional teahouses, and quaint shops, all exuding the ambiance of a bygone era. The buildings feature unique lattice windows and overhanging roofs, showcasing the exquisite craftsmanship of the time. One of…

Ogimachi Village in Nagoya （All）

Ogimachi Village Ogimachi Village, located in the Shirakawa-go region of Gifu Prefecture, Japan, is a UNESCO World Heritage-listed historical village renowned for its traditional Gassho-zukuri houses and picturesque rural charm. This village is one of the most famous in the area and offers a unique window into Japan’s rural heritage and architectural craftsmanship. The most striking feature of Ogimachi Village is the Gassho-zukuri houses, which have steep thatched roofs designed to resemble hands pressed together in prayer, offering superb durability and insulation. These traditional houses have stood for centuries and are beautifully preserved. Visitors can explore some of them, including…

Nagoya Castle （All）

Nagoya Castle Nagoya Castle is one of Japan’s most significant historical and cultural landmarks, located in the heart of Nagoya City and serving as an iconic symbol of the region. The castle was originally constructed in the early 17th century by the retainers of Toyotomi Hideyoshi, most notably the grandson of Tokugawa Ieyasu. Nagoya Castle, originally a grand castle keep, has experienced destruction through fires and conflicts over the course of its history, but it has been meticulously reconstructed to its former grandeur. Known as the “Kinshachi Castle” or “Golden Castle,” Nagoya Castle boasts golden shachihoko (mythical sea creatures) on…

Nagoya Atsuta Jingu （All）

Nagoya Atsuta Jingu Atsuta Jingu (Atsuta Shrine), familiarly known as Atsuta Sama (Venerable Atsuta) or Miya (the Shrine), has been one of the greatest centers of worship in Japan from ancient times. Visitors to the shrine, including those who practice the conventional New Year visit, now count nine million annually. The enshrined deity Atsuta-no-Ookami is Amaterasu-Oomikami as represented by the sacred sword Kusanagi-no-tsurugi, one of the three sacred treasures that symbolize the Imperial throne. The tradition says that this great god, by the divine decree of the god of creation Amatsu-mioya-no-Mikoto (Heavenly-Father-God), manifested for the first time the way of…

The Nagoya Port Aquarium（All）

The Nagoya Port Aquarium The Nagoya Port Aquarium is an engaging aquarium located in Nagoya, Japan, and is renowned as one of the largest in western Japan. Situated in the Nagoya Port area, it stands as an exciting family-friendly destination, celebrated for its diverse marine life exhibits and interactive experiences. The aquarium’s various sections showcase marine life from around the world, including colorful tropical fish, majestic whale sharks, mesmerizing jellyfish, and various coral reef inhabitants. Visitors can peer into the underwater world through enormous observation windows, feeling as though they are on a deep-sea adventure. The Nagoya Port Aquarium also…

Osu kannon Park in Nagoya （All）

Osu kannon Park in Nagoya Osu kannon Park, situated in the heart of Nagoya, Japan, is a serene and picturesque park that offers a respite from the bustling urban surroundings. It is renowned for its beautiful cherry blossom trees, making it a popular destination for cherry blossom viewing during the spring season. One of the key features of Osukannon Park is the central path lined with cherry blossoms. When these blossoms are in full bloom, they create a spectacular pink tunnel that is truly a sight to behold. Additionally, the park features a traditional tea house where visitors can partake…

Hokkaido Asahiyama Zoo （All）

Hokkaido Asahiyama Zoo Asahiyama Zoo, located in Asahikawa City, Hokkaido, Japan, is an astonishing zoo renowned for its exceptional animal exhibits and beautiful natural surroundings. Founded in 1954, the zoo covers an expansive 120 hectares and is nestled in the breathtaking Asahiyama mountain range. Asahiyama Zoo is celebrated for its extensive and diverse range of animals, including polar creatures like polar bears and penguins, African savannah animals such as giraffes and lions, as well as a variety of local and international species. Visitors can observe these animals up close, providing opportunities for intimate encounters. The zoo is dedicated to animal…

The Sapporo Clock Tower in Hokkaido（All）

The Sapporo Clock Tower in Hokkaido The Sapporo Clock Tower is a historic structure located in the heart of Sapporo, Hokkaido, Japan, and stands as one of the city’s most iconic landmarks. Built in 1878, this wooden clock tower showcases a unique American colonial architectural style, leaving behind a precious relic from the early development of Sapporo. Rising to a height of 47 meters, the clock tower houses exhibits and materials related to the history of Sapporo and Hokkaido. Most notably, it features a grand clock, whose chimes were once an important guide in the lives of city residents, ringing…

The Otaru Canal in Hokkaido（All）

The Otaru Canal in Hokkaido The Otaru Canal, situated in the city of Otaru in Hokkaido, Japan, is a historically significant and picturesque waterway that embodies the rich heritage and modern charm of the city. Originally dug in 1923, the canal once served as a primary cargo route, transporting coal and other goods. However, over time, it has transformed into a unique tourist destination. The Otaru Canal is renowned for its well-preserved European-style architecture and beautiful evening illumination. The historic buildings along its banks have been meticulously maintained, with many now serving as shops, cafes, and restaurants that attract tourists…

Noboribetsu Hell Valley in Hokkaido （All）

Noboribetsu Hell Valley in Hokkaido Noboribetsu Hell Valley, located in Noboribetsu, Hokkaido, Japan, is a natural wonder and one of the most renowned attractions in the region. This valley is a vast geothermal area defined by erupting sulfur and boiling mud springs, creating an impressively eerie and otherworldly landscape. The landscape of Hell Valley includes steaming blue ponds, sulfur vents, and bubbling mud springs, all of which present breathtaking sights. The geothermal activity here is ongoing throughout the four seasons, providing different vistas for visitors to appreciate year-round. Beyond the spectacular natural scenery, Hell Valley has onsen (hot spring) areas…

Biei River Onsen in Hokkaido （All）

Biei River Onsen in Hokkaido Biei River Onsen, situated in the tranquil countryside of Biei Town in Hokkaido, Japan, is a hidden gem of a hot spring resort celebrated for its captivating natural beauty and serene ambiance. This hot spring area is renowned for its rejuvenating hot springs, picturesque rural landscapes, and peaceful atmosphere. Surrounded by mountains and lush farmland, Biei River Onsen offers visitors magnificent mountain views and vast meadows, each with its own unique charm throughout the changing seasons. In winter, the snow-covered landscapes resemble a fairytale world, while summer brings lush countryside scenery. The hot springs are…