Dotonbori
Crab, octopus, cow, crane….these are just a few of the oversized 3D signboards that make up the look and feel of the bustling Dotonbori Area. Its packed with a number of eateries along the northern Dotonbori River and main street along its southern side.
The night view is beautiful. The whole river, along with the illuminated signs, has a really distinctive look, and it makes for great photos.
Akanko Ainu Kotan
The Akanko Ainu Kotan, located in the southern area of Lake Akan-a famous freshwater lake and a top tourist destination in Eastern Hokkaido-serves as a vibrant hub for experiencing Ainu history and culture.
The atmosphere is great at night. The wooden cabins and lighting give it a really unique feel, and it feels very different from the daytime.
I’d recommend coming after sunset.
Shinagawa Aquarium
Opened in 1991 inside Shinagawa Kumin Park, which sits right next to the canal, this aquarium is themed around “Connecting with the Sea and Rivers.” It features around 4,000 sea creatures from approx 450 species. Through shows and seasonal events, you can get up close with the fish, observe them, and learn more about their world.
The ticket price is about average, not especially expensive, but whether it feels worth it really depends on the person.
Inawashiro Lake
Overlooking Mount Bandai in the north, Inawashiro Lake is the fourth largest in Japan, covering an area of approximately 103 square kilometers and reaching depths of up to 93 meters. During the summer, the lake becomes a bustling hub for water activities such as swimming, boating, and fishing. Centrally located in Fukushima Prefecture, it spans the cities of Aizuwakamatsu and Koriyama, as well as Inawashiro Town.
The wind was really strong, and if you go in winter, it’s insanely cold 😂
Shikisai-no-Oka
Shikisai-no-Oka is a cherished flower park destination seated in the scenic hills of Biei, Hokkaido. From spring to autumn, dozens of flower varieties blossom vividly, blanketing the hillsides with a brocade of hues. Peak season between June and September brings a natural stripe of colors, with blooming lavender, salvia, marigold, and cockscomb lined up as if almost painted in by a brush.
Coming here in the summer is basically flower-sea heaven. The colors are super soothing, and if you don’t feel like walking, you can take the park train, which makes it a lot easier.
Richmond Hotel Obihiro Ekimae
Conveniently located just a 1-minute walk from Obihiro Station, this hotel offers easy access to popular attractions such as the Obihiro Racecourse, home to the "Banei Horse Racing," the flagship store of Hokkaido's famous sweets shop Rokkatei, and Kita no Yatai, a street lined with various restaurants. It’s an ideal base for exploring Obihiro.
It really is right next to the station, so dragging luggage around wasn’t tiring at all. Even in the rain or snow, there’s nothing to worry about. It’s just a short walk, which makes it super convenient.