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Geibikei Gorge

Kitakami River runs through Iwate north to south and branches into a tributary, Satetsu River, where the gorge stands tall. Water erosion created this 50m-tall, 100m-long bluff dotted with bizarre rocks, caves and waterfalls. The divine scene is counted as one of the 100 Scenic Places in Japan and National Historical Spot and Scenic Beauty and Natural Monument.

• Iwate
• Nature Spots

What I looked forward to most when visiting Geibikei Gorge in Iwate Prefecture was riding a traditional boat and experiencing the magnificent scenery of this natural gorge firsthand. The small boat slowly traveled along the stream, with towering rock walls rising on both sides. Shaped over many years by wind, rain, and flowing water, the rocks have taken on all kinds of unusual forms. As the boatman skillfully worked the oar, everything around us felt especially peaceful, with only the murmur of the water and the sound of the oar cutting through the surface.

Along the way, the boatman introduced the scenery and legends of the area, adding some fun to the otherwise tranquil valley. As the boat went deeper into the gorge, looking up at the towering cliffs on both sides made me feel the grandeur of nature and how small I was. Especially on a clear day, sunlight fills the valley, and the greenery and rock walls reflected on the water are so beautiful that it's hard to look away.

The Geibikei Gorge boat ride wasn't rushed, giving me a chance to truly slow down and quietly enjoy the scenery. Though it was only a short trip, it left me with very vivid travel memories and showed me the unique charm of Tohoku's natural landscapes.

Matsushima

One of Three Great Views of Japan along with Kyoto’s Amanohashidate and Hiroshima’s Miyajima. The grand horizon of the Pacific Ocean and large and small 260 verdant islands have been attracting many visitors since the Heian Period.

• Miyagi
• Nature Spots

Stepping into Matsushima, a seascape resembling a painting unfolds before your eyes. Islands of various sizes dot the deep blue sea, their lush pine trees blending with the sky and water to create a unique and peaceful beauty. Cruising among the islands, you can admire unusual rock formations, green islands, and shimmering waves from different angles, taking in scenery sculpted by nature over thousands of years. As you stroll along the shore with the breeze gently brushing by, the hustle and bustle of the city seems to fade away. Matsushima is not only one of Japan’s Three Great Views, but also a place to slow down and savor every moment. This trip left me with more than just beautiful photos—it also gave me unforgettable memories of the bay.

Kumamoto City Tram

Operated by the Kumamoto City Transportation Bureau, this streetcar system has long been a familiar form of public transport connecting the city center with key areas. It consists of two lines-the A Line and B Line-covering a wide range of destinations including the area around Kumamoto Castle, downtown shopping districts, Suizenji, and residential neighborhoods. For visitors, it’s an easy-to-understand and convenient way to get around the city.

• Kumamoto
• Trains & Subway

The streetcars I always see in Japanese anime feel like such a distinctive part of Japan's cityscape! Riding Kumamoto's streetcar through the city streets, enjoying the scenery along the way and the relaxed travel atmosphere, was a fun and unique experience.

Nagasaki Minamiyamate Pudding Main Store

Located on Glover Street, where remnants of the foreign settlement from the late Edo to Meiji period still remain, this specialty pudding shop offers handcrafted delights made fresh in its on-site workshop. Each pudding is carefully crafted using locally sourced ingredients from Nagasaki, including Unzen milk and sun-dried sea salt. The shop also selects premium ingredients such as Madagascar vanilla beans, beet sugar, and Nikko Kin-no-Tamago eggs, ensuring a natural, preservative-free treat that has gained a loyal following.

• Nagasaki
• Sweets Shop & Desserts Shop

You have to try Nagasaki Minamiyamate Pudding when you visit Nagasaki! The pudding is smooth and rich in milky flavor. The colorful stained-glass pudding is especially beautiful—not only delicious but also great for photos. Enjoying dessert while taking in the streets of Minamiyamate felt truly blissful!

Shimotori Shopping Arcade

Located in the heart of Kumamoto City and stretching from Toricho-suji in a north-south direction, Shimotori Shopping Arcade is bustling with local customers and tourists both day and night. Easily accessible by tram and bus, and in close proximity to JR Kumamoto Station, the arcade is also within walking distance to Kumamoto Castle, one of Japan's three most famous castles and a symbol of Kumamoto.

• Kumamoto
• Shopping Streets

Shimotori Shopping Arcade is a very lively shopping destination in downtown Kumamoto. The long, covered street is lined with clothing stores, souvenir shops, and restaurants. It's conveniently located near the station, and the roof means you don't have to worry about rain. It's a great place to stroll around and try local specialties like Kumamoto ramen. It gets even livelier when the lights come on at night and is well worth including in a trip to Kumamoto.