HC93's Reviews

Shōkadō

Shōkadō Shōjō was a Buddhist monk of the early Edo period (1603-1868), as well as a man of culture. With his talent for the arts, Shōjō left us excellent calligraphy works and paintings, and the tea ceremonies that he hosted used to attract many cultured people and flourished as a place of exchange. In his last years, he retired to small residence (Shōkadō) that he built in Otokoyama in Yawata City, Kyoto, where he lived simply until his death in 1639. Since then, Shōkadō has been relocated several times. In 2014 it was relocated in Shōkadō garden, which was designated a national place of scenic beauty.

• Uji, Joyo, Yawata
• Museums

Asahikan (Nara) Japanese Inn

Asahikan was founded around 140 years ago. It is located in front of the trail entrance to the World Heritage site, Mt. Omine, and has long been popular as a restful Inn for mountain climbers. Cuisine served at the inn features a variety of local seasonal produce, with a wonderful array of dishes from sweetfish grilled with salt and fresh deer sashimi to wild mountain vegetable dishes.

• Nara
• Inns

Sumo Wrestling Museum Kehayaza

In the midwest region of Nara Prefecture, Katsuragi City lies at the base of Mt. Nijo and its impressive double-peaks. Japan's oldest road Takenouchi Kaido has ancient myths connected and legends related to the Emperor of Japan, is home to historic Shinto shrines and Buddhist temples. There is a historical enchantment to the area that shows Nara used to be the capital. It is also said to be the region where Japan-specific cultural elements, such as sumo wrestling and the Tanabata festival, originated, making it the birthplace of the Japanese spirit. In one section of the city, you will find the Sumo wrestling Museum Kehayaza, a rarity even in Japan.

• Nara
• Experiences Facilities

A Gastronomy Walk Through Katsuragisanroku Park, Umemoto Tofu shop, Katakami Soy Sauce

Here, you can learn about fermentation at the soy sauce brewery, or enjoy a wonderful stroll and get closer with the local area and its relationship with food. Be amazed at the number of foods at the tofu shop. Visit and experience the food, history, culture, and townsfolk as you down the thoroughfares of the city, including the Katsuragi Kodo, one of Japan's oldest roads.

• Nara
• Famous Places

Fish and Eat your Catch of Day at a Fresh Fishing Pond

Sazan is a fishing pond located in Sennan, which is easy to access from Kansai International Airport. You can enjoy Sazan arriving empty handed, without preparing anything in advance. Fishing rods and replacement hooks are available for hire, in addition to things like bait and life jackets-the complete set of equipment that you will need for a fishing experience.

• Kishiwada, Kansai Airport, Senshu
• Experiences Facilities