WANG's Reviews Page 2/2

Ikuta Shrine

With a history of about 1,800 years, “Ikuta Shrine” is affectionately called “Ikuta-san, the matchmaker” by locals. As a popular power spot, it’s known for bringing good luck in marriage, love, work and health, and has even seen visits from athletes and artists in recent years.

• Kobe
• Shrines & Temples

When planning this trip to Kobe, I made sure to add this historic shrine, which is said to be extremely effective for finding love, to my list. As soon as I entered the shrine grounds, I was immediately drawn in by the lush trees and the solemn, peaceful atmosphere amid the bustling city. Without realizing it, my hurried steps began to slow down.
It's no wonder this is such an important place of worship for locals in Kobe. The vermilion main shrine looks especially striking and beautiful in the sunlight, and the architectural details are filled with traditional, old-world beauty. As I walked around the grounds, besides worshipping and praying for blessings, I could also feel a wonderful sense of peace. Best of all, the location is incredibly convenient. It's close to both the shopping district and the station, so after visiting the shrine, you can easily go shopping and enjoy some good food. I highly recommend making time to stop by when visiting Kobe and experience the unique charm of this century-old shrine!

Densetsu no Sutadon-ya (The Legendary Sutadon-ya) Akihabara

It is a popular Japanese pork bowl restaurant that has established itself, not only domestically, but also internationally since it was founded in 1971.

• Akihabara, Kanda, Ochanomizu
• Meat Dishes

Every time I visit Japan, Yoshinoya is definitely my first choice when I'm hungry or want a late-night snack! I never get tired of their signature gyudon. The slices of beef soak up the special sweet and savory sauce, and they're incredibly good over piping-hot white rice.
You can usually order using a tablet or machine, and the food comes out incredibly fast. Plus, there are plenty of choices. Just add an onsen egg or miso soup for a perfect meal. No matter how rushed your itinerary is, you can always walk in and enjoy a filling meal. It's truly the most convenient and authentic everyday Japanese food when traveling in Japan!

Matsue Shinjiko Onsen

A hot spring district on the lakeshore along the north side of Lake Shinji, the symbol of Matsue, the “City of Water.” Close to Matsue Castle and downtown Matsue, it is an ideal base for sightseeing in Matsue. It also offers easy access to Izumo Taisha Shrine, Approx. 60 minutes by Ichibata Electric Railway from the nearest station.

• Shimane
• Hot Springs & Hot Spring Resorts

Seeing the sunset at Lake Shinji, one of Japan's 100 best sunset spots, left me speechless! The golden sun slowly sank into the calm, mirror-like lake, bathing the entire sky and water in romantic shades of orange and red. The shimmering scene was incredibly beautiful.
Standing by the lake in the gentle breeze and quietly taking in this visual feast made me feel deeply relaxed and refreshed. It truly deserves its reputation as one of the San'in region's most iconic scenic views—every casual photo looks like a postcard. I highly recommend adding the sunset at Lake Shinji to your evening itinerary when visiting Shimane. It will definitely leave you with some of your most beautiful and lasting memories!

Izumo Taisha

Izumo Taisha is one of the most revered, ancient shrines in Japan, along with Ise jingu Shrine. Its records go as far back as writings from the Kojiki, Japan’ oldest historical account compiled in 712. The deity enshrined here is Okuninushi no Okami, who is known as the deity of love and marriage.。

• Shimane
• Shrines & Temples

On this visit, I finally got to see Izumo Taisha, one of Japan's foremost shrines for matchmaking, in person. The awe it inspires really can't be fully captured in photos! The moment I stepped onto the approach, the solemn atmosphere immediately put my mind at ease.
I especially recommend seeing the enormous shimenawa rope at the Kaguraden with your own eyes. It weighs several tons and is incredibly imposing. Looking up at it from below is truly spectacular and gives you a profound sense of the sacred atmosphere. It truly deserves its reputation as the sacred place where Japan's eight million deities gather. Both the worship experience and the traditional surroundings were so captivating that I didn't want to leave. I highly recommend that anyone traveling to the San'in region visit in person to experience the mystery and beauty of Izumo Taisha!