Overview This ancient shrine, dedicated to Sugawara no Michizane, the god of learning, is one of Kyushu's most famous places of worship. Famous for its red and white plum blossoms, it bustles from winter to spring, and is famous for its souvenir shops along the approach and its fragrant "Umegae mochi" (rice cakes with sweet fragrant sweets). It is a cultural hub rivaling the Kyushu National Museum, attracting a steady stream of worshippers year-round. Highlights: Main Hall: Magnificent...

Overview Located on the hills of Hase in Kamakura, Hasedera Temple is an ancient temple known for its long, sloping streets and beautiful gardens. The temple's principal image is a 9-meter-tall wooden statue of the eleven-faced Kannon. From the temple's walking paths and observation deck, you can enjoy views of Yuigahama and Enoshima. Seasonal plantings add a touch of color to this tourist attraction. Highlights: The eleven-faced Kannon statue and...

Overview: Tsunoshima Bridge is a beautiful sea bridge spanning the Sea of Japan, offering panoramic views of the crystal clear blue waters and white sandy beaches. It's a popular spot for driving and photography, and the views are particularly impressive on clear days. Highlights: The contrast between the long bridge and the emerald green sea; A stroll around Tsunoshima's lighthouse...

Overview Hirosaki Castle was the residence of the feudal lord of Tsugaru during the Edo period, and is surrounded by the vast Hirosaki Park. The castle tower, stone walls, and moat remain, and the cherry blossoms in spring, in particular, create a nationally renowned landscape known as the Hirosaki Cherry Blossom Festival. The harmony of history and nature, which changes with the seasons, is a fascinating sight. Highlights Hirosaki Castle...

Overview Located on the Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route in the Northern Alps, this is one of Japan's leading arch concrete dams. Its majestic 186-meter-high structure and the tourist water releases it offers from spring to autumn are a highlight of its photogenic scenery, drawing international attention. Highlights: The spectacular tourist water release...

Overview Chusonji is an ancient Tendai Buddhist temple founded in the Heian period, famous for its Golden Hall, which conveys the prosperity of the Oshu Fujiwara clan. The beautiful mother-of-pearl and lacquer decorations, donated through donations, have been preserved and were registered as a World Heritage Site in 1998 as "Hiraizumi - A Cultural Landscape Based on Pure Land Buddhism." Enjoy the tranquil cedar-lined streets and seasonal...

Overview: The whirlpools that form in the Naruto Strait are natural phenomena that can reach some of the largest sizes in the world when the difference between high and low tides is large. They can be observed up close from under the Onaruto Bridge or from a sightseeing boat, and the movement of the ocean and the impressive scenery are captivating. Highlights: See the gigantic whirlpools up close from the water on a sightseeing boat. From the "Uzu no Michi" walkway on the Onaruto Bridge...

Overview Matsushima, a scenic spot dotted with over 200 islands of various sizes in Matsushima Bay, is counted among the "Three Most Viewed Places in Japan." The serene landscape of the sea and pine trees changes with each season, and can be enjoyed up close on a sightseeing boat or a stroll along the bay. Highlights: Take a sightseeing boat tour of Matsushima Bay for a spectacular view (cruise area summary...)

Overview Ryoanji is a Zen temple dating back to the Muromachi period and is part of the World Heritage Site "Historic Monuments of Ancient Kyoto." Known both domestically and internationally for its dry landscape garden, consisting of 15 rocks arranged on white sand, the beauty of the empty space changes depending on the viewpoint. The hojo (abbot's chamber), moss garden, and the tranquility of the temple grounds are also highlights, revealing different faces with each season...

Overview: This large temple, built during the Nara period and registered as a World Heritage Site, is characterized by the Vairocana Buddha (the Great Buddha of Nara) enshrined in the Great Buddha Hall and its expansive grounds. Visitors are captivated by the seasonal scenery and the coexistence of deer. The architecture and Buddhist statues are also of great historical value, making it a symbol of Nara culture. Highlights: The Great Buddha Hall: The overwhelming...