Overview (History, Features, and Attractions) Miho no Matsubara is a scenic spot of pine forests and sandy beaches along the coast of Suruga Bay in Shimizu Ward, Shizuoka City, Shizuoka Prefecture. It has long been known as the setting for the "Hagoromo Legend," a story that has been the subject of utamakura (traditional Japanese poetry), waka (traditional Japanese poems), Noh (traditional Japanese dramas), and Kyogen (traditional Japanese plays). The "Hagoromo Pine" tree standing in the center of the park is particularly famous. As of 2013...

Overview This shrine enshrines Tokugawa Ieyasu, the first shogun of the Edo shogunate, and is characterized by its gorgeous carvings and richly colored shrine buildings. As the centerpiece of the World Heritage Site "Shrines and Temples of Nikko," it is a popular destination for visitors from both within Japan and overseas. Highlights: Yomeimon Gate: Intricate carvings and the "see no evil, hear no evil, speak no evil" sign; Sleeping Cat: A small statue symbolizing peace...

Overview This is a typical fumarolic zone of the Hakone volcano, known for its rugged landscape with the smell of sulfur and rising smoke. It's popular for its famous black eggs and the views of Mount Fuji and Lake Ashi from the observation deck, but access restrictions are sometimes in place due to geothermal activity. Highlights: Black eggs: Egg shells boiled in hot springs...

Overview: This area is home to a group of Western-style buildings and gardens, primarily consisting of merchant residences from the late Edo and Meiji periods. Nationally designated Important Cultural Properties, such as the Former Glover House, are scattered throughout, allowing visitors to experience the history of the Meiji Restoration and its exotic atmosphere. The view overlooking Nagasaki Port is also captivating. Highlights: Former Glover House: Exhibits of period furniture and documents; Former Ringer House...

Overview: This approximately 14km mountain stream flows from Lake Towada. Its moss-covered rocks, clear water, and seasonal scenery create a popular nature trail. Highlights: The diverse pools and waterfalls, including the Ashura River; The scenery changes with the fresh greenery, autumn foliage, and snow; Enjoy a quiet stroll along the boardwalk and birdwatching; Access: From JR Hachinohe Station or Aomori Airport...

Overview: Nachi Falls, one of Japan's most famous waterfalls with a drop of 133 meters, is a scenic spot that has long been a place of worship. Its pilgrimage scenery, combined with that of Kumano Nachi Taisha Shrine and Seiganto-ji Temple, is a fascinating sight. Highlights: The view of the waterfall over the three-story pagoda of Seiganto-ji Temple; the atmosphere and sound of the water along the approach to the waterfall's basin; strolling along the Kumano Kodo trail and touring historical sites...

Overview: Kinosaki Onsen is a hot spring town that has flourished as a therapeutic spa since the Edo period. The townscape, with its seven outdoor baths, rows of willow trees, and the Otani River, exudes a sense of atmosphere, and nighttime strolls in yukata are a popular pastime. Highlights: Touring the outdoor baths: A tasteful tour of the seven public baths; Walking along the willow trees and river: A charming stroll through town; Kinosaki Ropeway: Otani River...

Overview Mount Aso is a huge caldera and a group of active volcanoes.

Overview Gunkanjima (Hashima Island) is an uninhabited island off the coast of Nagasaki Port. It is a modern industrial heritage site, densely packed with remains of a coal mining town from the Meiji to Showa periods. The port, concrete apartment buildings, and abandoned coal mining facilities create a unique landscape, and the island was registered as a World Heritage Site in 2015 as part of the "Sites of Japan's Meiji Industrial Revolution." Sightseeing...

Overview: Japan's largest sand dunes boast a vast landscape facing the Sea of Japan. The landscape, interwoven with sandy slopes and grasslands, changes with the seasons and time of day. Enjoy paragliding and seasonal events. Highlights: A spectacular panorama from a high vantage point known as Umanose. The dramatic sunset and sand ripples create a...