Kumamoto Castle
Kumamoto Castle is a renowned castle built by Kato Kiyomasa in 1607. Constructed using the most advanced technology of the time and an immense amount of labor, it later became the setting for many important events in Japanese history.
After the earthquake, Kumamoto Castle was badly damaged. It's slowly being restored bit by bit. I hope it can return to its original state soon.
Sakurajima
Sakurajima is an active composite volcano located in Kagoshima Bay. It is a symbol of Kagoshima, and part of Kirishima-Yaku National Park. The volcano began to form around 26,000 years ago, and it has had 17 major eruptions.
The people living on the island were super friendly and welcoming to us as visitors. Even though we didn't speak the same language, we could really feel their warmth.
Nankin-machi (Nanjing town)
"Nankin-machi" (Japanese name for Nanjing town) in Kobe is one of the three best Chinatowns in Japan, along with Yokohama Chinatown and Nagasaki Shinchi Chinatown. There are more than 100 Chinese restaurants, Japanese and Western restaurants, grocery stores, general stores, and many other stores lining the streets.
Most of the food here is pretty similar, and the main visitors seem to be Japanese people. Every now and then, I’d hear some familiar Chinese being spoken.
Osaka Tsuruhashi Market
The market consists of not one but six markets and a shopping district that still retains the retro atmosphere of the time immediately after Japan's war (World War II). The market boasts a total of about 800 stores, including barbecue restaurants, Korean food stores, and specialty stores selling dried foods, daily necessities, and fresh fish. It is also famous as a market where chefs have come to stock up for centuries.
The sidewalks are packed with all kinds of goods on display. I really enjoy this kind of shopping vibe—feels just like what I'm used to.
Kyoto Tower (Nidec The Kyoto Tower)
It is located right in front of Kyoto Station. It was designed in the shape of a lighthouse to illuminate Kyoto, and is the tallest building in Kyoto at 131 meters. It has been visited by over 32 million people since it opened in 1964.
You can spot it right after stepping out of Kyoto Station, so it's not hard to find at all. The space at the top of the tower is pretty small, so you probably won't spend much time up there.
Engetsu Island
A landmark of the Nanki-Shirahama area, familiar as the subject of paintings, photographs, and postage stamps. The official name is “Takashima” but it’s commonly called “Engetsu-jima” because of the sea cave (hole) near the center of the island.
The island has a unique look shaped by the waves. Unfortunately, I came at the wrong time and missed the sunset view.
Abeno Harukas
A 300-meter-tall mixed-use skyscraper that opened in 2014. The second basement through 14th floors house the Kintetsu Department Store Main Store Abeno Harukas and Abeno Harukas Dining.
It's super convenient since you can get to the building directly from the station. The observation deck entrance is on the 16th floor, and then you take a high-speed elevator straight up to the 60th floor.