Lake Notoro
In eastern Hokkaido, on the westside of Abashiri City, Lake Notoro is known to be covered with crimson coral grass in fall. “Japan’s Best Sango Grass Habitat” has wooden boardwalks, making you feel like walking on a runway on the coral grass carpet.
Standing by Lake Notoro, the breeze was cool and the surface of the lake was so calm it looked like a mirror. In autumn, the coral grass turns red across the whole area, which looks really unique. The atmosphere is quiet and relaxing.
Farm Tomita
Located in Nakafurano Town, Hokkaido, this tourist farm is famous for its large-scale, elegant lavender fields. In addition to the grand lavender fields, the farm is known for its "Irodori Field," a canvas of gently sloping hills adorned with vivid bands of flowers such as purple lavender, white baby's breath, and red poppies.
Standing in the flower fields at Farm Tomita, the breeze carried a light floral scent, and it made me feel completely at ease. The colors were rich but perfectly balanced, and it made me want to stay a little longer.
Roppongi Hills
This multipurpose commercial complex opened as a Roppongi landmark in 2003. In the middle of Roppongi Hills stands Mori Tower, a 54-story skyscraper office building rising 238 meters from the ground.
Roppongi Hills has a really polished, upscale feel. You can shop, eat, and see exhibitions all in one place, and it definitely feels like one of Tokyo’s more high-end areas.
The view from the Mori Tower observatory at night is amazing. Tokyo Tower is right in front of you, and the whole atmosphere is just perfect.
Tokiwa Park (Yamaguchi Prefecture)
A large park centered around Tokiwa Lake, covering Approx. 100 hectares. The grounds are home to attractions such as Tokiwa Zoo, Tokiwa Amusement Park, and Tokiwa Museum, where visitors can enjoy nature, culture, and leisure all in one place. It is also registered as a Registered Monument (Place of Scenic Beauty), the first in Yamaguchi Prefecture, and is beloved for its beautiful natural scenery.
The park is huge and really comfortable. With the lake views and grassy areas, you can see waterbirds up close, which feels super relaxing.
There are also lots of art sculptures scattered around the park, so it’s nice to walk around and enjoy them as you go.
Dogo Onsen Station
Dogo Onsen Station of the Iyo Railway city tram is the closest station to the famous "Dogo Onsen", believed to be Japan's oldest hot spring.
The Botchan train stopping here is really distinctive. It feels very touristy in a fun way, and it’s also really cute.
Botchan Karakuri Clock
To commemorate the 100th anniversary of the construction of Dogo Onsen Honkan (main building), this mechanical clock was built in 1994 at the Hojoen Garden, located in front of the Dogo Onsen tram station. From 8 am to 10 pm, every hour (and every 30 minutes on weekends, holidays, during the months of March, April, August, and November, during Golden Week, and over New Year's), the clock performs to its music, giving a vibrant welcome to those visiting Dogo Onsen.
When the time comes, the whole clock tower opens up and little figures come out to perform. It’s really fun to watch.
Dogo Shotengai (Dogo Haikara Dori)
Nicknamed “Dogo Haikara Dori”, the Dogo Shotengai is a shopping arcade connected to Dogo Onsen Honkan. At 250-meters in length, this L-shaped shopping arcade connects the stretch from the main building of Dogo Onsen to Dogo Onsen Station, the final stop on the Iyotetsu train lines.
This is pretty much a place you’re bound to pass through when visiting Dogo Onsen. It’s not especially stunning, but it’s fun to walk around.
Kikugetsutei Teahouse
Ritsurin Garden, designated as a Special Place of Scenic Beauty, boasts nearly 400 years of history and is the largest cultural heritage garden in Japan at approximately 75 hectares. With lush Mt. Shiun as its backdrop, the garden features six ponds and thirteen artificial hills, offering constantly changing views as visitors stroll through this prominent example of a daimyo strolling garden.
The exterior looks very elegant, with that classic Japanese teahouse style. The building blends beautifully with nature, and the overall atmosphere feels especially relaxing.