Red Pumpkin
Naoshima off the coast of Kagawa Prefecture is the island of modern art, where prominent artists’ works are attracting world’s attention. When a ferry approaches Naoshima’s front gate, Miyanoura Port, the first thing that catches your eye is the Red Pumpkin by Yayoi Kusama.
The bright red with black dots really stands out, even from far away.
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.
The lake isn't very big and the water isn't deep,
but the whole atmosphere is just beautiful.
Mount Takao
Mount Takao is a peak with an levation of 599 meters, located in Tokyo’s Hachioji City. With good transportation access, it’s a popular placee to go mountain climbing. While still in the city, it’s like taking a trip to the countryside! From families with small children to the elderly, about 3,000,000 people visit every year. It’s world famous as the mountain boasting the most climbers in the world.
Mount Takao is always super popular. Whether you're visiting temples, enjoying great food, or hiking outdoors, there's so much to do. People of all ages love it here.
Kumano Kodo Path
Kumano Kodo is the path leading to the three Kumano Mountains (Kumano Hongu Taisha Shrine, Kumano Hayatama Taisha, Kumano Nachi Taisha and Mt. Nachisan Seiganto Temple). While Kumano faith was rising, noble families used this path to come to Kumano, which was later spread to the general public.
While walking along the Kumano Kodo, I came across lots of places called 'Oji.' Apparently, these were rest spots for the imperial family and nobles who used to come here to visit the shrines.
HAYASHI GENJURO SHOUTEN
The Kurashiki Bikan Historical Quarter where the good old townscape of Kurashiki continues to this day. Hayashi Genjuro Shouten located within the Kurashiki Bikan Historical Quarter is a multi-facility complex with a range of “affluent lifestyle” businesses related to “clothing, food and shelter”.
Originally a Chinese medicine shop, it's now been transformed into a place selling creative goods and has a trendy café. There's even an observation space on the rooftop where you can enjoy a distant view.
GINZA SIX
GINZA SIX is a luxurious building with a commanding presence, even amidst the high-end brands lining Ginza's central street. It opened in 2017 as the largest commercial facility in the Ginza district, redeveloping the area including the former site of the Matsuzakaya Ginza store in Ginza 6-chome.
I always stop by here whenever I'm in Tokyo. In early January this year, 14 stores announced they were closing at the same time. Not sure what will happen next...
Osaka Takashimaya
This longstanding department store is a landmark of the Osaka/Namba area. It was revamped and opened in March 2011 with an all new line up of beloved stores and brands.
This is a classic department store. You can pretty much find anything you want inside.