The whole building feels wonderfully old-school. The moment you step in, it’s like you’re transported back to Hokkaido’s heyday.
You can see traces of the luxurious lifestyle from when the herring fishery was booming, and it has a real sense of history. It’s a decent-sized place, so take your time—you’ll spend a bit, but it never feels boring.
It’s usually not crowded, which makes it really comfortable to explore. If you’re into history or old architecture, this is definitely worth a stop.
Otaru City Nishin Goten (Herring Mansion) | Review by 吳怡芳
Other Reviews by 吳怡芳
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Hachi & Hachikita Highlands Ski Resort
Hachi Highlands Ski Resort features 11 courses, and its vast slopes-along with the snow park “The Parks”-have made it a mecca for snowboarders and freestyle skiers. The open Central Slope area offers three main runs: the wide and gentle Central Quad Course, the Central Pair Course with one of the largest snow park areas in the Kansai region, and the Central Triple Course, which is ideal for enjoying smooth turns. For beginners, there is a moving walkway lift, as well as a popular kids’ park with a rest area.
There are fewer people here than at the really popular ski resorts, so you don’t have to keep stopping to avoid crowds, which is a big plus.
The lifts and facilities are pretty simple, but they’re perfectly usable and don’t feel too old.
The rest area and restaurant are about standard for a Japanese ski resort.
Nothing fancy, but good enough to warm up and recharge. -
Hamamatsu Zoological Gardens
Swing by to find Hamamatsu Zoological Gardens nestled by Lake Hamana on a sprawling grounds of some 146,000 square meters. It houses approximately 300 animals across 90 species, utilizing the natural terrain to create a dynamic and forest-like look and feel. Once you’re here you’ll find not just the animals, but also the natural sounds of insects chirps and birdsong to complement the seasonal flowers and unbeatable serenity.
The zoo isn't very big, so it's easy to walk around without getting tired. They have a good variety of animals—giraffes, lions, and all the classics, plus a cute little animal area. The whole place feels more like a stroll through the forest where you just happen to see animals along the way. It's relaxed and never crowded. There are lots of families, but it's not noisy at all. It's not one of those huge, flashy zoos, but if you want to see animals and snap some cute photos in a chill setting, this place is just right.
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Fukui Station West Plaza (Dinosaur Plaza)
With the extension of the Hokuriku Shinkansen in March 2024, Fukui Station is drawing increased attention. The "Dinosaur Plaza" at the west exit is a fitting gateway to Fukui Prefecture, known as the "Dinosaur Kingdom" due to the numerous fossils discovered here. The plaza boasts a variety of dinosaur-themed attractions.
Super cute and unique! As soon as you step out of the station, you'll see these amazingly realistic dinosaur models—they move and make sounds, which gets all the kids really excited. The atmosphere is even better at night when the lights come on, and it looks awesome in photos. The whole plaza is clean and spacious, with plenty of seating to relax. There are also shops and restaurants right next door, so it's really convenient if you're waiting for a train or just want to rest. If you're in Fukui, you definitely have to check this place out—it really gives you that 'dinosaur city' vibe! 🦕✨