Hateruma Island is seriously gorgeous! The water is so blue and the sand is so white—it’s the kind of view that makes you say wow 🌊✨
The whole island is really peaceful, so it’s perfect for just relaxing or slowly biking around. I especially recommend visiting the Monument Marking Japan’s Southernmost Point and Star Sand Beach. Both are super unique.
At night, you can see a sky full of stars, which feels so romantic 💫 It’s absolutely worth visiting at least once!
Hateruma Island | Review by 楊華
Other Reviews by 楊華
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Futagami Mountain Manyo Line
Mt. Futagami, with an elevation of Approx. 274 meters, stands near the border between Takaoka City and Himi City in Toyama Prefecture. The Futagami Mountain Manyo Line is an Approx. 8-kilometer scenic driving route that runs along the mountain ridge. On clear days, it offers spectacular views of Toyama Bay and the Noto Peninsula on one side, and the Tateyama Mountain Range on the other. From the observation deck near the summit, you can take in a panoramic view of Takaoka City.
The train cars are small, and the ride feels really relaxed. The scenery along the way is simple and understated, not the kind of touristy view that makes you go wow at first glance.
Outside the window you’ll see houses, fields, and sometimes Mt. Futagami in the distance. The whole atmosphere feels very everyday and slow-paced. It’s a good choice if you’re not in a hurry and just want to unwind and enjoy the views. It has the feel of a local commuter line, but it’s still pretty soothing for visitors too. -
Hanayagura Observatory
Mt. Yoshino, known for its approximately 30,000 cherry trees in bloom, is a famous cherry blossom spot. A popular viewing location is the Hanayagura Observatory, reached by climbing the steep, curvy Shishiozaka slope. It is said that here, Sato Tadanobu, a retainer of Minamoto no Yoshitsune, once shot arrows at enemies pursuing them from the mountain's base to facilitate Yoshitsune's escape.
This place is gorgeous! It really feels like standing inside a painting, especially during cherry blossom season—it's absolutely dreamy.
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Paris Ogawaken Original Raisin Wich
Established by the Western-style restaurant Ogawaken, founded in 1905 in Tokyo's Shimbashi district. During the mid-Showa period, Jun Ogawa (the second-generation owner) and his brother Akira Ogawa perfected the original Raisin Wich recipe, leading them to establish the dedicated pastry brand "Paris Ogawaken."
The cookies are nice and crisp, filled with rich cream and sweet raisins. They’re not too sweet and really addictive—perfect for enjoying with tea.