Cape Soya
Cape Soya is the northernmost tip of mainland Japan. The monument "Northernmost Point of Japan" stands proudly at latitude 45 degrees 31 minutes 22 seconds, making it an excellent photo spot. The monument is designed as a cone that reflects the facet of the North Star, a symbol of the northern lands.
This is one of those places that’s like, “once is enough, but you’d regret it if you never came.”
Motonosumi Shrine
The Motonosumi Shrine, located in Yuyatsuo, Nagato City, is said to be a power spot in Yamaguchi.
It's in Yamaguchi Prefecture, and the most famous thing here is the long row of red torii gates stretching all the way down to the sea—it's seriously breathtaking. No matter how you take photos, they always turn out amazing. The ocean view from above is so soothing, especially on a clear day with the blue sky and waves—the colors are just dreamy!
Kitazawa Flotation Plant
The Aikawa Gold and Silver Mine, the largest of Sado’s gold mines, was in operation from the early Edo period until 1989. In the Kitazawa district, the ruins of the Kitazawa Flotation Plant remain-a facility built to meet the demand for mass production of gold and silver during wartime. Structures from the early Showa period still stand today, and the site has been designated a National Historic Site as a valuable piece of industrial heritage.
This is a ruin site with huge concrete buildings covered in greenery—it feels straight out of a fantasy movie. Walking inside, you can sense the traces of the mining boom from the past, but now it's become an awesome spot for photos. There's a bit of a mysterious vibe, so if you're into ruins or historical places, you'll love it.
Uzu-no-Michi Walkway
Uzu no Michi is a 450-meter walkway above the sea, directly beneath the Onaruto Bridge. From a height of 45 meters above the sea, peer through glass floors to see the whirling tides of the Naruto Channel, one of the three fastest whirlpools in the world. In the spring and fall, the whirling tides of Naruto can reach a maximum diameter of 20 meters, said to be the world’s largest!
There are glass floors along the walkway, so you can look straight down at the whirlpools from the bridge. But if you want to actually see them, you need a bit of luck. It's best to check the tide schedule online beforehand for the best chance.
Cat Alley (Neko no Hosomichi)
Cat Alley, or Neko no Hosomichi, is the 200-meter narrow road that stretches from Ushitora Shrine in Nagae, an area of Onomichi City (Hiroshima). The road was started in 1998 when artist Shunji Sonoyama painted the “fukuishineko” lucky stone cats found along the road.
Take the cable car up and then walk down—the route isn't too long. There aren't a lot of cats along the way, but there are some creative shops all themed around cats.
Shibuya Scramble Intersection
This is a scramble intersection in front of Shibuya Station. Said to be the world’s busiest crosswalk, it has become a famous sight to see in Tokyo. From the pedestrian bridge connecting the JR Yamanote Line and the Keio Inokashira Line, you can view the flurry of people crossing the intersection from above.
The pandemic has had a big impact—there are way fewer people here now.
Hibiya Chanter
Hibiya, known as the Holy Ground of Tokyo’s arts scene, is where many theaters and cinemas are concentrated. Here, you’ll find a venerable retail complex.
This is a favorite shopping mall for movie lovers. With a new mall opening nearby, I think it will have a big impact.