Lake Akan
Lake Akan is Hokkaido's fifth largest freshwater lake and is known as a habitat for marimo moss balls. Marimo moss balls can be found in freshwater lakes all over the world, but the ones in Lake Akan have international significance due to their beautiful spherical shape with a diameter of more than 15 cm.
The water here is so clear and beautiful. You can't see the marimo from the lakeshore, though.
Hinode Park Lavender Garden
The park is renowned for its lavender fields, which span approximately 4.2 hectares. From late June to late July, the entire hilly area is covered with lavender, offering visitors a chance to enjoy the vibrant purple flowers swaying in the wind and their refreshing scent. A late-blooming variety called "Okamurasaki" is mainly planted, making it possible to appreciate the lavender even if you visit towards the end of the season. In addition to lavender, the park is also adorned with a variety of seasonal flowers such as catmint and marigold.
I visited in late June, but it was still a bit early for the lavender season. It's better to go after July!
Seven Stars Tree
Biei Town is famous for its hills. There are many famous trees in Biei Town, and one of the most widely known is the "Seven Star Tree."
I don't smoke, but I feel like I've seen this tree on a cigarette package before.
Stopped by during a motorcycle tour! There's a parking lot right in front, so it's super easy to drop by.
Sawayaka Charcoal-Grilled Restaurant Kosai Hamanako
Located in Kosai City, this is the only branch in the city of Shizuoka’s famous hamburger steak chain, which operates 34 locations exclusively within Shizuoka Prefecture. The signature dish is the “Genkotsu Hamburg,” made from 100% beef formed into a thick block and grilled over charcoal. Served sizzling on a hot iron plate, the hamburger steak is cut in half right in front of you by the staff, after which you finish it to your preferred doneness. The bold, beefy flavor and firm, springy texture are outstanding. Sauces can be chosen from a classic onion sauce made with onions or a rich demi-glace, with a mixed option combining both also proving popular.
I tried their signature Genkotsu Hamburg steak!
You can really taste the rich flavor of the meat and it was absolutely delicious.
At most locations, waiting 2 hours is completely normal, so you really need to plan to spend the time shopping or doing something fun after you check in.
If it’s your first visit, definitely be prepared for the wait.
Lake Hamana
Lake Hamana stretches from Hamamatsu City and Kosai City in Shizuoka Prefecture, ranked as the tenth largest lake in Japan. It is known as a brackish lake thanks to the inlet of seawater flowing in from the Pacific Ocean's Enshu Nada at its southern end. The nutrient-rich mix of freshwater and seawater supports thriving fisheries and the cultivation of eels, seaweed, and oysters. Eel, in particular, is a local specialty enjoyed by many fans at nearby restaurants.
I enjoyed cycling along the lake! The roads are well maintained, so it was really comfortable. After exercising, I had some eel and felt totally satisfied!
Lake Hamana Nukumori no Mori
“Nukumori no Mori" is a medieval European landscape that looks like something out of a picture book. The late architect Shigeyoshi Sasaki spent more than 20 years carefully creating this warm and welcoming space. The small stone house and antique furniture imported from Europe create a fairytale-like atmosphere.
It feels like stepping into a fairytale. If you visit with an eye for architecture, you'll find it really inspiring. On the other hand, if you're just here for shopping or the café, the entrance fee might feel a bit pricey.
Hamamatsu Flower Park
Located on the shores of Lake Hamana, this botanical garden offers a chance to enjoy over 3,000 plant species blooming no matter what the season across its expansive grounds of some 300,000 square meters.
So many flowers across this huge park! When I visited, the wisteria was almost done, which was a bit disappointing, but the roses were in full bloom and absolutely beautiful!
1414cafe
Since opening in 2022, 1414 Cafe has become a popular hangout for motorcycle and car enthusiasts. It's a lively stopover for riders on touring trips and a favorite gathering spot for bike-loving friends. Run by a couple who are passionate about both motorcycles and cars (they own six bikes and two cars!), the café features shelves lined with books and magazines on bikes and automobiles, and even sells bags and riding gear.
This is a café where motorcycle and car lovers gather. You can enjoy coffee and light meals here, plus they have some tasty desserts! Even if it's your first time, it's a casual spot where you can easily chat with the owner and other customers. It's right in front of the highway interchange, so it's super convenient if you're coming from the Tokyo Gaikan, Joban, or Shuto Expressways.
San'en-zan Kodo-in Zojoji Temple
Located at the base of Tokyo Tower is Zojoji, an Omotoyama temple of the Jodo sect of Buddhism. Enshrined in Zojoji's Ankokuden Hall is the hidden black image of Buddha worshipped by Tokugawa Ieyasu, the first shogun of the Edo period. Since he won one battle after after another, visiting this temple is said to increase the chance of victory.
Even though it's in the middle of the city, the temple sits on a huge property, so the sky feels wide and it's really peaceful. It's right next to Tokyo Tower, so you'll definitely want to snap some photos. I drew an omikuji and got 'daikichi' (great luck)!
Hakone Tozan Railway / Hakone Tozan Cable Car
The Hakone Tozan Railway is an indispensable part of sightseeing in Hakone, with many of the major spots in the city located along the route.
The train climbs steep mountain slopes with impressive power. There are several switchbacks along the way, so you get the unique experience of the train changing directions. It's also really convenient that you can easily transfer to the Romancecar at Hakone-Yumoto Station!