Yoidore-Unagi's Page

Yomiuriland

What I look forward to every season is the 'Jewellumination'—an illumination event produced by lighting designer Motoko Ishii, inspired by jewels. The entire park is lit up with 6.5 million colorful LED lights, and it's absolutely breathtaking. The best way to enjoy it is to view it from different heights and angles. The gondola from Keio Yomiuriland Station gives you a fantastic view as you approach the park—highly recommended to start your visit with the gondola (sit facing the direction of travel!). You can also enjoy unique views from the Ferris wheel, the Bandit roller coaster, and the 360-degree Looping Starship ride. And here's a secret tip: the best spot is at the top of the bungee jump tower, where you can capture the whole illumination in one photo. Be sure to check the bungee jump hours on the official website and go before it closes. Of course, you can even enjoy the view while bungee jumping!

Tobi Fudo (Flying Deity), Ryukozan Shoboin

This Fudo deity is said to bring good luck for all things related to flying, including air travel safety. The original goshuincho (temple stamp book) here is really unique, so be sure to check out the cover. You can spot satellites, airplanes, golfers, rockets, and helicopters among the clouds. It's the only place in Japan where you can get this one-of-a-kind stamp book. Each one is JPY 1,800 and measures about 12 cm by 18 cm.

Fukiware no Taki Falls

Since Fukiware no Taki doesn't always have a huge amount of water, it's best not to expect something as massive as Iguazu Falls in South America. That's actually part of the fun. The area around the falls is well maintained and easy to walk, so you can enjoy not just the waterfall but also the unique rocks and the river scenery as you stroll. There's a hiking course around the gorge that takes about an hour, with three observation decks where you can look down at the falls from above. Along the way, there's a souvenir shop selling nostalgic items in a charmingly cluttered way—it's hard not to stop and take a look.

SL Gunma Minakami, SL Gunma Yokokawa

Here's a hidden spot where you can get up close to the SL Gunma Minakami: the SL Turntable Plaza at Minakami Station. It's about a five-minute walk to the right after you exit the station. You can watch the steam locomotive turn around on the turntable at the end of its journey—so close you can feel the heat! On days when the SL is running, you need a reserved seat ticket to enter the plaza, but there's also a free viewing spot on a nearby hill where you can see the action from a bit farther away. When I visited, I even got to see the JR East cruise train 'TRAIN SUITE Shiki-shima' at Minakami Station.

Aqua World Ibaraki Oarai Aquarium

If you visit Aqua World Oarai Aquarium, you absolutely have to see the 'IWASHI LIFE' sardine show. About 15,000 sardines move dynamically in sync with lights and music—it's like watching one giant living creature. The show started in 2021 for the aquarium's 20th anniversary, and it features sardines, which are a big catch in Ibaraki Prefecture. Even if you think sardines are kind of weak, this energetic performance will totally change your mind. The show happens three times a day at the big tank on the second floor, but check the official website for the schedule since it can change.

Kongobuji

Within Mount Koya, the 'Gobyo' is considered a sacred area and is located in Okunoin. It's believed that Kobo Daishi (Kukai) entered eternal meditation here over 1,200 years ago and is still alive, praying for peace and happiness for all. There's a ritual called 'Shojingu' that has continued unbroken for 1,200 years, where meals are delivered to Kobo Daishi twice daily by monks. The ritual starts at the Gokusho, passes by the Ajimi Jizo statue for a taste test, crosses the Gobyo Bridge, and finally reaches the Gobyo. You can take photos up to the bridge. Experiencing this in the quiet morning air is truly special, and if you're staying on Mount Koya, I highly recommend going early to witness it. No reservation is needed—just head to the Gokusho. Please remember to be respectful, as this is a sacred ceremony.

Fujiko·F·Fujio Museum

This museum lets you fully immerse yourself in the works of Fujiko F. Fujio, including Doraemon. I was so captivated by the original Doraemon drawings that I couldn't move on for a while. The café inside is a lot of fun too—you can try things like French toast inspired by the 'Memory Bread' or a katsudon served in a bowl that looks like the daikon from the movie 'Doraemon: Nobita and the Birth of Japan.' It really brings out your inner child! The snacks with 'spicy quotes' sold at the shop make perfect souvenirs. Every quote is just brilliant!