Shinjuku Golden Gai (Shinjuku Ward, Tokyo) Overview (History, Features, and Attractions) Shinjuku Golden Gai is a dining district near Kabukicho in Shinjuku Ward that developed shortly after the war. Its narrow alleys are lined with small wooden bars and izakayas, retaining a strong Showa-era atmosphere, making it a famous "Showa Retro" spot.

Overview (History, Features, and Attractions) Yasukuni Shrine is a shrine located in Kudankita, Chiyoda Ward, Tokyo. It was founded to honor war dead since the Meiji Restoration for the nation. As a shrine dedicated to the spirits of the war dead, it is known for its visitors from all over the country and its year-round festivals. The grounds...

Overview (History, Features, and Attractions) Togakushi Shrine is a group of ancient shrines scattered throughout the Togakushi region of Nagano City, Nagano Prefecture. It is made up of five shrines (Okusha, Kuzuryusha, Nakasha, Hokosha, and Hinomikosha). According to legend, when the Ama-no-Iwato Cave was opened by the Ame-no-Niboko spear in ancient times...

Takachiho Shrine (Takachiho Town, Nishiusuki District, Miyazaki Prefecture) Overview (History, Features, and Attractions) Takachiho Shrine is an ancient shrine deeply connected to the legends of the descent of the heavenly grandson and the Ama-no-Iwato cave, both of which are recorded in the Kojiki and Nihon Shoki. It is the central shrine of Takachiho Town, known as the setting for mythology. It is said to have been founded in ancient times...

Overview (History, Features, and Attractions) Hachimantai is a volcanic highland region centered on Hachimantai City in Iwate Prefecture. Part of the Ou Mountain Range, it is characterized by its mountainous and plateau landscapes at an elevation of approximately 1,600 meters. It is home to flat plateaus and marshes created by volcanic activity, hot spring resorts with acidic springs, lava, and fumaroles...

Overview (History, Features, and Attractions) Shiga Kogen is a highland area in Yamanouchi Town, Shimotakai District, Nagano Prefecture, and part of Joshin'etsu Kogen National Park. At an elevation of roughly 1,300-2,000 meters, the plateau boasts one of Japan's largest ski resorts in winter and a hiking trail where you can enjoy alpine plants and marshes in summer.

Maizuru Red Brick Park (Maizuru City, Kyoto Prefecture) Maizuru Red Brick Park is a tourist spot renovated from the remains of a group of red brick warehouses along the port of Maizuru City in northern Kyoto Prefecture. Historic buildings built during the Meiji and Taisho periods as warehouses for naval ports and shipping have been preserved and utilized, and the park now houses cafes, shops, exhibitions, and events.

Overview (History, Features, and Attractions) Ashikaga Flower Park (Ashikaga City, Tochigi Prefecture) is a tourist spot known for its seasonal flowers and spacious gardens. It is particularly famous nationwide for its wisteria, which blooms in the spring. Its greatest attraction is the magnificent scenery created by the long clusters of purple, white, and pink wisteria. The park boasts a large...

Overview (History, Features, and Attractions) Kamaishi Daikannon is a large Kannon statue enshrined in Kamaishi City, Iwate Prefecture. It is beloved as a symbol of prayers for the safety of local citizens and fishermen, as well as for peace and reconstruction. The exterior features a striking white Kannon statue that stands out even from afar, and the interior is divided into multiple floors, housing Buddhist statues, a prayer space, and an exhibition...

Overview (History, Features, and Attractions) The Tokino-Kane (Bell of Time) is an iconic wooden bell tower located in the Kurazukuri district of Kawagoe City, Saitama Prefecture. Originating in the Edo period, it is a beloved structure that conveys the history of Kawagoe, which flourished as a castle town and commercial city. It stands approximately 16 meters tall...