Overview (History, Features, and Attractions) Yufuin Onsen (Yufu City, Oita Prefecture) is a hot spring resort located at the foot of Mount Yufu, known for its abundant nature and relaxing atmosphere. It developed as a tourist destination from the Meiji to Taisho periods, and in recent years has become known as a "scenic hot spring resort" that combines a charming hot spring town with an art museum, cafe, and gallery.

Overview (History, Features, and Attractions) The Tomioka Silk Mill is a Meiji-era government-run modern silk mill located in Tomioka City, Gunma Prefecture, established in 1872 (Meiji 5). It was a pioneering facility that introduced modern mechanized silk-reeling technology to Japan, and its unique architecture combines Western-style architecture, primarily brick construction, with Japanese timber-frame construction.

Overview (History, Features, and Attractions) Senkoji Temple is located midway up Mount Senko, towering over the center of Onomichi City, Hiroshima Prefecture, near the summit. It is one of Onomichi's most famous tourist attractions. It is said to have been founded in the Heian period and has watched over Onomichi's faith and culture throughout its long history. The view from the summit is unbeatable...

Overview (History, Features, and Attractions) Takeda Castle Ruins (Asago City, Hyogo Prefecture) are the remains of a medieval mountain castle built on a mountain ridge. With its stone walls still in good condition, the castle is a popular tourist destination both in Japan and abroad, nicknamed "Japan's Machu Picchu" and "Castle in the Sky." Construction of the castle dates back to the Muromachi period (15th century) and it was an important castle in the Tajima region.

Overview (History, Features, and Appeal): The 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art, Kanazawa is a contemporary art museum located in Kanazawa City, Ishikawa Prefecture, and opened in 2004. The building was designed by the world-renowned architectural unit SANAA (Kazuyo Sejima and Ryue Nishizawa), and its distinctive feature is its circular building and spatial composition that gently connects the interior and exterior...

Overview (History, Features, and Attractions) Mount Hoju Risshakuji (commonly known as Yamadera) is an ancient Tendai Buddhist temple located in Yamagata City, Yamagata Prefecture. It is said to have been founded by the Heian period monk Jikaku Daishi (Ennin) around 860. The temple complex clings to the cliffs, and the stone steps and approach leading up the mountainside are a spectacular sight...

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...