On the last day of my trip, I visited Niigata’s guardian shrine, Hakusan Shrine. As soon as I stepped inside, I was drawn to the colorful flower water basin.
After praying at the main hall, I was blown away by all the unique omamori charms and goshuin—so many to look at.
Hakusan Shrine is known for blessings like business success, good relationships, and safe childbirth. I walked past the matchmaking wall covered in ema plaques and made my way to a sacred stone called the “Hakusan Kukuri Stone.”
They say if you touch it, you can receive Hakusan’s energy. The moment I did, a gust of wind suddenly blew through, and the pinwheels on both sides started spinning. It felt like I connected with nature for a second—and it was such a magical way to end the trip.
Niigata Soshinju Hakusan Shrine | Review by 金己田
Other Reviews by 金己田
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Seeing the Phoenix Hall of Byodoin in real life, instead of just on the JPY 10 coin, was truly moving. The symmetrical vermilion building reflected on the water creates a solemn, sacred atmosphere. So this is what a Pure Land in the human world looks like.
Then, stepping inside, there was a विशाल Buddha statue seated in the hall. Even though I could only partly understand the Japanese explanation, simply being there filled me with joy and left my heart completely at peace. -
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When it comes to Sendai food, it has to be beef tongue!
Even though Sendai Station has a whole beef tongue street, I figured if I was going to try it, I should go with a place that had better reviews, so I chose Gyutan Ryori Kaku.
I ordered the grilled beef tongue set meal with 4 slices. The beef tongue was grilled to perfection with an amazing aroma, and the texture was thick, tender, and pleasantly springy.
My first beef tongue experience was absolutely fantastic! -
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I rode the Resort Shirakami from Akita to Hirosaki, and that day it was the Buna train.
True to its name, the interior was designed mainly with wood from Akita and Aomori, which gave it a warm, inviting feel.
As the train rolled along, I enjoyed the changing views of the Sea of Japan. We also stopped at Noshiro Station, where you can get off and try a basketball shot.
It’s a sightseeing train that really blends in a lot of local character. -
