Kinosaki Onsen in northern Hyogo is a famous, historic hot spring town with about 1,300 years of history. It’s known for doing the “seven public bath” tour and for strolling along the willow-lined Otani River.
In winter, walking down the old-school onsen streets feels so charming. There are little cafés everywhere, so it’s easy to grab a coffee and a dessert, take a break, and just chat.
The town has kept its traditional Japanese vibe, and the snowy winter scenery is especially beautiful. It’s such a lovely, polished little place. I can’t wait to come back when the willows are lush again—soaking in the baths and wandering around in a yukata has to be super chill.
Kinosaki Onsen | Review by 周黛西
Other Reviews by 周黛西
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Former Hirosaki City Library
A Western-style building with a striking red dome roof, featuring octagonal twin towers on both sides, standing in Otemon Square near Hirosaki Castle. Built in 1906 to commemorate Japan’s victory in the Russo-Japanese War, it was used as the city library until 1931. The three-story wooden building was designed and built by master carpenter Sakichi Horie, a Hirosaki native.
While visiting the Fujita Memorial Garden in Hirosaki, Aomori, you can experience the luxury and style of a wealthy merchant’s world. This is a Western-style building designed by Kinzō Horie. In addition to the exhibition rooms, there is also a Taisho Roman Cafe where visitors can enjoy authentic apple pie.
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Kinkaku-ji
During the Muromachi Period, the 3rd Ashikaga shogun, Yoshimitsu, made an abode in this temple called Kitayamadono. It was named as Rokuon-ji after the posthumous name of Yoshimitsu. He had also built Shokoku-ji Temple, and Rokuon-ji, his retirement home, was turned into a branch temple of Shokoku-ji.
When visiting Kyoto’s famous Rokuon-ji Temple, the must-see highlight is its golden Shariden, Kinkaku-ji.
Kinkaku-ji is world-famous for its exterior covered in gold leaf. Surrounded by Kyokochi Pond, the temple’s golden reflection shimmering on the water is dazzling and breathtaking. The “upside-down Kinkaku” reflection is one of Kyoto’s most iconic sights, and it was registered as a World Cultural Heritage Site in 1994.
Kinkaku-ji offers different scenery in every season, and the constant crowds are proof of its popularity as a tourist destination. I hope to visit again in winter to see the Snow Kinkaku. -
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Universal Studios Japan
Universal Studios Japan, nicknamed “USJ”, is a large-scale theme park with entertainment for everyone, both children and adults alike. The park is separated into different areas, each with a different theme from popular titles across the world.
The immersive experience at The Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal Studios Japan begins the moment you pass through the stone entrance and step into Hogsmeade and Hogwarts Castle. The music and scenery are recreated with amazing detail, and even if you are not familiar with the series, the magical atmosphere is truly impressive.
The park was absolutely packed, and every attraction had a long line. Among them, Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey stood out, combining 4K visuals with real mechanical motion to create an exciting and realistic Quidditch and magical chase experience. The blend of virtual and physical effects was especially memorable. I would definitely recommend it for families and Harry Potter fans. -
