Gina C's Reviews Page 2/2

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.

• Oita
• Nature Spots

Kinrin Lake is one of the must-visit spots in Yufuin. Although the lake isn’t large, it has a relaxing charm. In the early morning especially, white mist often rises from the lake because of the hot spring heat, making it feel like you’ve stepped into a magical scene.
Taking a slow walk along the lakeside and enjoying the views of the water and mountains really helps you unwind. Each season offers a different kind of scenery. Whether it’s the autumn maple leaves or the winter morning mist, it makes you want to stop and quietly take it all in.

Kamishikimi Kumanoimasu Shrine

A shrine famous on social media as a “Spiritual Place” and a “Gateway to another world”. This shrine worships Izanagi-no-Mikoto, Izanami-no-Mikoto, and Iwagimitai-Shogun as its deities. It is known by locals as “Gongen-San”. On the temple grounds, there is the “Nagi” for good luck in marriage and “Ugeto-Iwa” (Ugeto Stone) which is good for passing tests and winning things.

• Kumamoto
• Shrines & Temples

Kamishikimi Kumanoimasu Shrine is tucked away in the forest. As you climb the long stone steps, nearly a hundred moss-covered stone lanterns line both sides, creating a mysterious and peaceful atmosphere.

Sunlight filters through the trees, making the scenery feel almost dreamlike, which is why it has become a filming location for many movies and commercials. At the end, you can also see the famous Ugeto-Iwa. This huge rock opening symbolizes good fortune and overcoming challenges, letting you feel the unique charm where nature and faith come together.

Kusasenri

Mount Eboshi is one of the 5 peaks found in the center of Mount Aso. Here you’ll find Kusasenri, the breathtakingly vast, emerald green grasslands that expand northwards. Many textbook writings, as well as classical poets and song writers have immortalized its beauty in their works, making Kusasenri one of the most iconic images that people know when thinking of Mount Aso.

• Kumamoto
• Nature Spots

Kusasenri offers vast grasslands and stunning volcanic scenery, with a different charm in every season. In summer, everything is lush and green, with cows and horses leisurely wandering around, full of life and energy. In winter, it is covered in a layer of white snow, quiet and magical, almost like stepping into a fairy-tale world.

You can see Mount Aso in the distance, while nearby the wide grasslands and ponds create a beautiful scene together. Whether it is the fresh green of summer or the silvery white of winter, it is worth taking your time to enjoy. It is a natural landscape that makes you want to linger.