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Mt. Hakodate Observatory

The Mt. Hakodate Observatory is the final stop of Mt. Hakodate Ropeway. The first floor features an inside lounge, the Ryoubi Park popular among locals as a less-crowded area to enjoy the night sceneries. The second floor features a summit shop, and restaurant selling Mt. Hakodate original goods. The third floor features a tea lounge, and the fourth floor features an observatory lounge.

Hakodate and Matsumae
Observatories

27 Jul 2026 See More

This world-famous million-dollar night view was also featured in a Detective Conan movie. We were lucky to have perfect weather, and the view was absolutely stunning. Mt. Hakodate is freezing on winter nights, but this view makes it totally worth it.

Noboribetsu Jigokudani (Hell Valley)

One of Noboribetsu’s most popular tourist destinations, Jigokudani is the remains of a volcanic crater formed by the eruption of Mount Hiyoriyama. The valley, which spans about 450 meters in diameter and covers approximately 11 hectares, is still geothermally active. It serves as the main source for the renowned Noboribetsu Onsen, which boasts an impressive daily output of 10,000 tons of hot spring water.

Lake Toya and Noboribetsu
Nature Spots

27 Jul 2026 See More

In winter, you can see white steam rising from the snow at Noboribetsu Jigokudani, which is truly unique. As soon as you walk in, you can smell the strong sulfur scent. The volcanic landscape and constantly rising steam create a spectacular sight.

A leisurely walk along the trail lets you experience the power of nature up close. It’s definitely a must-visit spot in Hokkaido.

Yutoku Inari Shrine

This shrine is one of Japan’s great Inari shrines along with Fushimi Inari Taisha in Kyoto and Kasama Inari Shrine in Ibaraki. In 1687, Hizen Kajima Domain's lord, Nabeshima Naotomo, was marrying Kazanin Manko-hime from Kyoto, when she requested the deity, Inari Okami, who the imperial court offered prayers to, to be imparted and this shrine was built.

Saga
Shrines & Temples

27 Jul 2026 See More

You have to climb a flight of stairs to reach the main hall. When I visited, the stairs were decorated with lots of little wind chimes, which were adorable. Farther up, there’s a long row of red torii gates that creates a distinctly Japanese atmosphere. It’s a wonderful place to pray for good fortune, take photos, and appreciate the beauty of Japanese culture.

Unzen Jigoku (the Hells of Unzen)

Unzen Jigoku, a main highlight of the Unzen hot springs. The scenery of cloudy white steams with the smell of sulfur looks just like hell.

Nagasaki
Nature Spots

27 Jul 2026 See More

Unzen Jigoku is filled with white steam and a strong sulfur smell, showcasing the powerful volcanic energy of nature. Walking along the trail, you can admire the steam vents and rocky scenery—it’s both impressive and fascinating. You can also try hot spring–cooked eggs. This natural attraction is well worth a visit.

Kinrin Lake

Kinrin Lake is one of many popular tourist spots in the hot springs town of Yufuin. The lake sits under Mt. Yufu and as such was called takemoto-no-ike (lit. “lake under the mountain”) for years. However, it was renamed to Kinrin, or “golden scales”, by Mori Kuso in 1884 when he saw the golden glimmering scales of fish as they swam at sunset.

Oita
Nature Spots

27 Jul 2026 See More

Kinrin Lake is beautiful, with crystal-clear water. I’ve visited in both summer and fall, and while the scenery was different, it was equally stunning. Sometimes the lake is blanketed in morning mist, creating a dreamy, almost otherworldly atmosphere. It’s a must-see in Yufuin and well worth exploring at a leisurely pace.

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