Kumamoto City Zoological and Botanical Gardens
A comprehensive amusement facility that includes a zoo, botanical garden, and amusement park. Spread out along the shores of Ezu Lake, where seasonal wild birds gather, it also offers easy access from central Kumamoto.
Getting there is pretty convenient. It’s a quick tram ride from Kumamoto Station.
There aren’t many people on weekdays, so it’s super easy to take photos and see the animals.
Mount Nantai (Nantaisan)
Rising on the north shore of Lake Chuzenji, Mount Nantai is a 2,486-meter peak selected as one of Japan’s 100 Famous Mountains. Since the monk Shodo Shonin first reached the summit in Ten’o 2 (782), it has been worshiped as a sacred mountain representing the Nikko Mountain Range. From the trailhead at an elevation of Approx. 1,200 meters, it takes 3.5-4 hours to reach the summit and 2.5-3 hours to descend, making it a popular day-hike spot.
Taking a cruise around the lake lets you enjoy the scenery from different angles and really feel Mount Nantai’s calm, majestic presence.
Odaiba Statue of Liberty
The Statue of Liberty in Odaiba, standing against the backdrop of the Rainbow Bridge, symbolizes the friendship between Japan and France. Initially brought to Odaiba from Paris in 1998 as a temporary exhibit, the site continues to draw immense fandom to this day. With official permission from the city of Paris, it was permanently installed in 2000.
You can get amazing photos here with both the Rainbow Bridge and the Statue of Liberty in the frame. The shots turn out great!
Otokoyama sake brewery museum
Otokoyama, Hokkaido's famous sake, with a history of about 350 years. The Otokoyama Sake Brewing Museum is operated by Otokoyama Corporation to convey the history and traditions of sake brewing where Otokoyama is produced and sold.
The museum offers free sake tastings, so you can try different varieties of Otokoyama sake and really get a feel for what makes sake so special.
Koiwai Farm
The farm covers a vast area at the foot of Mt. Iwate, spanning Shizukuishi-cho and Takizawa city, and is involved in a variety of businesses, including dairy farming, forestry, food, and tourism.
There are all kinds of hands-on farm activities, like milking cows, feeding sheep, and even horse-drawn carriage rides. It's a great way to experience real farm life and have some fun!
Jozenji-dori Avenue
Along with Aoba Dori, this main street is a symbol of Sendai, the "City of Trees," with four rows of zelkova trees stretching 700 meters, which can be enjoyed in all seasons, from fresh greenery to autumn leaves. The center of the street is a promenade, where visitors can enjoy a leisurely stroll while sipping a cup of coffee.
This is Sendai's most famous avenue, lined with lush greenery on both sides. The area is surrounded by lively shopping streets and is definitely a prime spot in the city.
Entsuin Temple
Entsuin Temple was built in 1647 as a family temple for Date Mitsumune, Date Masamune's grandson. Entsuin Temple is known for its beautiful autumn foliage, which is at its best from late October to mid-November. The garden, which was created around 350 years ago, is one of the most beautiful in the Tohoku region, centered on Shinji Pond and Mt. Potalaka, where Kannon Bosatsu (Goddess of Mercy) resided.
One of the best places in Tohoku to see autumn leaves. The scenery in fall is beautiful, and the garden is definitely worth taking your time to enjoy.
Sendai Castle Ruins (Aoba Castle)
Sendai Castle was built by order of the lord Date Masamune. Commonly called "Aoba Castle," it has been the center of the clan government for 270 years.
You can see a statue of Date Masamune looking heroic on his strong horse. It really gives you a sense of Sendai’s rich history.
Kankaiji Onsen Hot Spring
This hot spring resort, which has existed since the Kamakura period (1185-1333), is located on the upper slopes of the Asami River, which flows from Mt. Tsurumi into Beppu Bay. The area offers a panoramic view of Beppu City and Beppu Bay, and there are many hot spring inns with open-air baths with spectacular views.
The infinity outdoor hot spring bath here is amazing! You can look out over the ocean. Staying at Suginoi Onsen Ryokan was just fantastic! 👍