Kinkaku-ji
During the Muromachi Period, the 3rd Ashikaga shogun, Yoshimitsu, made an abode in this temple called Kitayamadono. It was named as Rokuon-ji after the posthumous name of Yoshimitsu. He had also built Shokoku-ji Temple, and Rokuon-ji, his retirement home, was turned into a branch temple of Shokoku-ji.
Every step in the garden is filled with Japan's unique 'serene beauty.' It's not just about seeing the temple—it feels like a cleansing for the soul.
Cow Brand Red Box
This creamy lathering soap contains milk and squalene to help moisturize. It is a popular, long-selling product that has been on the market since 1928.
This classic brand has been selling for so long for a reason. It's all-natural and still handmade. I always buy this soap at drugstores in Taiwan!
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 scenery at Kinrin Lake is like a dream. Watching the reflections of the trees and misty mountains on the water makes you forget all your worries!
Eiraku Dam
This dam is rich in nature and has been selected as one of the "100 best places for greenery in Osaka" and "100 best places for water source forests". A circular path is maintained for 2 km around the dam, allowing visitors to enjoy hiking and walking while experiencing nature in each of the four seasons.
If you're tired of the usual shopping trips and love hiking and walking in nature, you'll really appreciate the natural beauty here. You'll go home feeling happy!
Mt. Rokko (Rokkosan)
Mt. Rokko (Rokkosan), the prominent peak of the Rokko Mountains, is 931 meters above sea level. With easy access by cable car to the top of the mountain, the mountain is full of various facilities that offer physical activities, romantic nightscapes, and more.
Taking the cable car is so convenient! Even someone like me who doesn't enjoy hiking can easily get close to the mountain.
Rokko Garden Terrace
Rokko Garden Terrace, located 880 meters above sea level on Mt. Rokko, is an observation deck where visitors can enjoy a panoramic view of the Osaka Plain and Akashi Strait, including the city of Kobe, as well as a "10 million dollar" night view.
Having coffee at Rokko Garden Terrace while enjoying the amazing view is such a relaxing experience!
Tsurugajo Castle
The castle is a cherry blossom viewing spot and the symbol of Aizu Wakamatsu City. Its official name is Wakamatsu Castle, and it is also sometimes called Aizu Castle or Aizu Wakamatsu Castle. The castle tower, the only one in Japan covered with red tiles, preserves the beautiful appearance of the castle in the feudal era.
The castle keep is on higher ground, so you'll need to take your time walking up.
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.
The view is amazing—you can see both the mountains and the sea.
Yamashita Park
Yamashita Park is located by the sea, just a short walk from Yokohama Chinatown. It was opened in March of 1930, reclaiming the waterfront using rubble caused by the Great Kanto Earthquake.
Such a relaxing outdoor spot! The ocean view is wide open—perfect for a nice walk.
Oshino Hakkai – The 8 Springs of Oshino
Oshino Hakkai is the collective name for Mt. Fuji’s 8 natural ponds, Deguchi-ike, Okama-ike, Sokonashi-ike, Choshi-ike, Waku-ike, Nigori-ike, Kagami-ike and Shobu-ike. Once a former lake, the area has dried up and formed the 8 spring-sourced ponds that remain today.
The Japanese-style buildings along the way feel really rural and simple. The pond water is super clear, but there are just too many tourists and it's pretty noisy, which kind of ruins the vibe.