Tourist attractions--archive--

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...

Overview Goryokaku is a star-shaped Western-style fortress built at the end of the Edo period, and has been developed into Goryokaku Park. The moat and earthworks create a beautiful geometric pattern, allowing visitors to enjoy the changing scenery throughout the seasons. The bird's-eye view from the adjacent Goryokaku Tower is one of Hakodate's most iconic views. Highlights From the Goryokaku Tower Observatory...

Overview: This ancient shrine enshrines the guardian deity of maritime traffic. The approach and souvenir shops have been in place since the Edo period, and the stone steps leading to the main shrine and the 1,368 steps leading to the inner shrine are famous. Visitors can enjoy the view of the Seto Inland Sea and the view from the main shrine. Highlights: The view from the main shrine and the sense of accomplishment at the top of the steps. The approach to the shrine is lined with souvenir shops and specialty udon restaurants, and the traditional atmosphere...

Overview Takachiho Gorge is a scenic valley with a deep V-shaped valley, cliffs with columnar joints, and clear streams. Its most iconic feature is the 17-meter Manai Falls. Legends surrounding the "Amanoiwato" myth from the Kojiki and Nihon Shoki remain, and visitors are drawn to the beauty of the valley during the day and the kagura performances at night. Highlights: Get up close and personal by rowboat...

Overview: Kintaikyo Bridge is a five-arch wooden bridge spanning the Nishiki River. Its elegant appearance, restored using Edo-period techniques, makes it a popular spot for viewing cherry blossoms and autumn foliage. The views of Iwakuni Castle and the valley beyond the bridge are captivating. Highlights: Five wooden arches and traditional architectural beauty; cherry blossom trees in spring, autumn foliage in fall, nighttime illuminations; sightseeing boats and...