Ohori Park
Ohori Park is located in downtown Fukuoka City, only two stations away from Tenjin Station, but is a favorite place for citizens to relax and enjoy the abundant nature centered around a large pond.
There are small islands and bridges in the middle of the lake, and the view from the water really gives off that classic Japanese garden vibe.
Atami Plum Garden
Established in Meiji 19 (1886) by the wealthy Yokohama businessman Sobei Motogi, this urban park has its roots in a plum garden. Covering approximately 44,000 square meters along the Ichigawa River, the vast garden boasts 469 plum trees of 60 different varieties, including specimens over 100 years old.
The scenery in the plum garden is perfect for photos, especially when the plum blossoms are in full bloom.
Oide Park
A scenic spot located about 15 minutes on foot from Hakuba Station. You can see the clear stream of the Himekawa River, a suspension bridge, and the towering mountains of Hakuba on the other side. If you want to enjoy this beautiful scenery, aim for the observation terrace and observatory within the park. Once the cherry blossoms are in full seasonal bloom, you won’t want to miss a chance to see them up close from the observation terrace.
There are several trails in the park where you can take a leisurely walk and enjoy the peace and beauty of nature.
Sanrio Puroland
Guests can meet Sanrio characters like Hello Kitty and My Melody at this indoor theme park. Sanrio characters put on authentic performances like shows and parades that mix stories, dances, and songs together.
It's far away, the tickets are expensive, and you have to pay extra for almost everything. Most of the souvenirs are made in China.
Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium
“Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium” is a popular tourist spot, located in Okinawa’s Kaiyohaku Park. If you take the building’s escalator down from the 4th floor to the 3rd, you’ll find yourself at the entrance to the aquarium. The aquarium is designed as a “deep dive” into the ocean as you go down to the 2nd and 1st floors, so as you descend, a magnificent world filled with mysterious Okinawan ocean creatures unfolds before you!
This aquarium is a must-visit when you're in Okinawa! The place is huge and super photogenic—it's like a miniature version of the ocean. Highly recommended!
Shurijo Castle Park
Shurijo is a proud Okinawan icon whose brightly-painted vermillion walls also make it the only red castle in Japan. The castle served as the esteemed seat of politics, trade and culture for the Ryukyu Kingdom that existed during the 450 years between 1429 and 1879.
This palace was built during the Ryukyu Kingdom era. It's such a shame it was destroyed by a fire. Really hope they restore it soon.
Niji no Matsubara
Along the Karatsu Bay, a pine grove stretches in the shape of a rainbow. This national special scenic spot started when Karatsu Domain’s first lord, Terazawa Hirotaka began planting as a protection against wind and tide in the early 17th century. Roughly 1 million pine trees form a 4.5km-long and 500m-wide grove. It is one of the three most scenic pine groves in Japan along with Miho and Kii’s pine groves.
One of Japan's top three pine groves. The environment here is really well preserved.
Nara Park
Nara Park is a scenic area surrounded by historical and cultural treasures, including Kasuga Taisha Shrine, Kohfukuji Temple, Todaiji Temple, the Nara National Museum, and Shoso-in. Visitors can enjoy the breathtaking natural beauty of its expansive greenery while exploring these iconic landmarks. The park is located in the center of the city, making it easily accessible to various tourist spots.
The deer will only come up to you if you have the senbei snacks in your hand. They're pretty realistic about it!