Shinhotaka Ropeway
Far east of Takayama City, in Okuhida Hot Spring Villages, a ropeway takes you to Shin Hotaka Onsen. From the starting point, Shinhotaka-Onsen Station, to the terminal, Nishi-Hotakaguchi Station, ride the 1st and then 2nd ropeway to enjoy a 3,200m-long journey in the sky.
This ropeway is awesome! When you reach the final Nishi-Hotakaguchi Station, you get to enjoy an absolutely stunning panoramic view. Totally worth it!
Omotesando Hills
Featuring an impressive architectural design suited to Omotesando’s elegant and fashionable high street image, Omotesando Hills has been a landmark in the area since its opening in 2006.
I sat outside and admired the building's exterior—it's a classic example of Tadao Ando's signature exposed concrete style. I've always loved the look of exposed concrete: simple, understated, and elegant. The architecture alone makes it worth a visit!
Rokkatei Flagship Store
Rokkatei is loved as a staple brand for Hokkaido souvenirs. They offer a wide variety of sweets, such as Marusei Butter Sandwiches, Strawberry Chocolates.
The first time I tried these cookies was when my family brought them back from Japan. I was blown away! Ever since then, I always make sure to buy them as souvenirs when I visit Japan—you’ll fall in love with them too!
Sabo Kyuchayatei
"Sabo Kyuchayatei" is a repair and preservation of a store and residence of a marine merchant from the late Meiji period, designated as a traditional building, as well as a reproduction of a Taisho-romantic salon where foreigners of the time were said to have stopped by to seek peace of mind. It opened in 1992, taking over the name of the former teahouse pavilion, which was operated for a limited time by the owner at the time of the Seikan Expo.
Walking into the shop, I was surprised and excited because it's just so beautiful. The warm lighting, European-style tables and chairs, and the thick, soft cushions create a unique blend of Western and Japanese styles that I’ve never seen before. I couldn’t help but walk around and check out the decor in detail. Definitely worth coming here for coffee!
Bettei Senjyuan
Bettei Senjyuan is a famous inn, surrounded by the serene silence of the valley with a view of Mt. Tanigawa. By incorporating traditional Japanese designs alongside modern architecture, they create a unique and luxurious atmosphere.
Amazing service and beautifully presented Japanese cuisine with an artistic touch. Each room has its own private hot spring bath where you can enjoy views of the river. Although it’s not cheap and a bit tricky to get to, staying here makes it all worthwhile!
Tsurunoyu Onsen
In Akita’s prominent hot spring, Nyuto Onsenkyo, Tsurunoyu is especially popular. Located deep in a far-away mountain, it looks like samurai’s hiding place, which is for a reason - it belonged to Akita Domain’s lord. The 2nd lord, Satake Yoshitaka, used to soak in this therapeutic bath and the current thatched-roof guesthouse was for his guards to stay.
You definitely need to book early to stay here. Winter is the best time to visit—just soaking in the hot spring makes you feel like you’re in a world of your own. The meals are average, but the scenery is beautiful. The hot spring water is a lovely milky white, and my favorite is the outdoor women’s bath!
Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building Observation Deck
The Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building, located in Shinjuku, is Tokyo’s centralized administration complex, comprised of three buildings: the First Main Office Building, the Second Main Office Building, and the Metropolitan Assembly Building. The First Main Office Building is home to a 45th floor Observation Deck, which is accessible by dedicated elevator on the 1st floor. In just 55 seconds the dedicated elevator will whisk you into the skies, to a height of 202 meters above ground and the sprawling view of Tokyo below.
Besides Roppongi Hills and Tokyo Skytree, this is honestly one of the best spots to enjoy the night view in Tokyo.
Aomori Nebuta World Shinbashi Store
Aomori Nebuta World Shinbashi Store opened in 2018 with the aim of promoting Aomori Prefecture's specialty products and tourist information. Surrounded by the sea on three sides, Aomori boasts an abundance of fresh seafood, as well as branded meats like Aomori Beef and Aomori Shamorock, and branded vegetables.
This izakaya is full of Nebuta Festival vibes in its decor, really showing off Aomori’s character. With local dishes and ingredients, you’ll fall in love with it on your first visit!
Toranomon Hills Mori Tower
The character is "Toranomon," a cat-shaped business robot, and it is a skyscraper complex with 52 floors above ground and 5 below, directly connected to Toranomon Hills Station. In addition to restaurants and other commercial facilities, the building will house offices, residences, and "Andaz Tokyo", the first lifestyle hotel to open in Japan.
The whole building is designed to be super comfortable. There are plenty of seats in the outdoor courtyard where you can relax in the sun. There are lots of cafes on the 2nd floor and restaurants on the 3rd. If you’re here, it’s definitely worth checking out!
Asahikawa City Museum
The "Asahikawa City Museum" displays materials related to the history, culture, and nature of northern Hokkaido. A distinguishing feature is its rich collection of materials about the Ainu, the indigenous people of Hokkaido.
I really learned a lot here. Visiting this museum helped me understand that there are actually indigenous Ainu people in Hokkaido, Japan. It's great to get a deeper look into the history and culture of the Ainu people.