Kusatsu Onsen (Kusatsu Hotspring)
Kusatsu Onsen is popular and well known as one of Japan's three major hotsprings. 32300 liters per minute naturally gushes, which is admitted as the highest amount of discharge in Japan, the source water with high acid is known to have an excellent antibacterial effect.
Kusatsu Onsen really lives up to its reputation. The moment you get in, you relax so much it’s unreal.
Otaru Canal
Otaru Port, which developed as a gateway for Hokkaido's settlement, saw an increasing volume of cargo over the years. To streamline its transportation, the "Otaru Canal" was completed in 1923 (Taisho 12). The canal, created by reclaiming the offshore coast, is characterized by its gentle curves rather than a straight line.
Otaru Canal is definitely a landmark in Otaru, Hokkaido. It has a great atmosphere both during the day and at night.
Rokkatei Strawberry Chocolate
When it comes to Hokkaido's iconic sweets, Rokkatei is a name that stands out. While their Marusei Butter Sandwich is the most famous, the Strawberry Chocolate has also become a favorite, especially among women.
The white chocolate coating is sweet but not too much, and it goes perfectly with the tangy strawberries! Such a great combo!
West Lake (Sai-ko)
Located in the middle of the Fuji Five Lakes, this mystical lake is surrounded by mountains and the Aokigahara Sea of Trees. In recent years, the Kunimasu Trout, which was thought to be extinct, was discovered for the first time in about 70 years, making a big splash in the news.
Aokigahara Forest is really close by, and since this is a famous suicide spot in Japan, it feels a bit eerie and creepy.
Sumiyoshi Shrine (Chuo-ku, Tokyo)
Sumiyoshi Shrine is familiar to many in Japan as the place to pray for safety on the seas or in the air. At the top of the Torii Gate is a rare ceramic framed inscription of the shrine's name. Another highlight is the carved washbasin, where worshippers purify themselves before entering the shrine.
This shrine is peaceful and tranquil. Hardly anyone comes here most of the time.
Suitengu Shrine
Located in Ningyocho, an area brimming with downtown charm despite being in the city center, Suitengu Shrine has a rich history. The ninth lord of the Kurume Domain in Fukuoka Prefecture, Arima Yorinori, established a branch shrine at his upper residence in Mita Akabane in 1818, marking the beginning of Suitengu Shrine in Tokyo.
A lot of pregnant women come here to pray for a smooth delivery.
Homangu Kamado Jinja
Kamado Jinja is a shrine with over 1350 years of history. It enshrines Tamayori-hime, who has been worshipped as a kami (Shinto god) of marriage since ancient times.
It's not too far from Tenmangu, but you do need to take a bus up here. The shrine office has a nice blend of traditional and modern design, and it looks beautiful. There are also lots of cute omamori charms to choose from.