Matsuyama Castle is one of the few castles in Japan with an original main keep still intact. It feels genuinely historic, not like one of those rebuilt empty shells.
Its location on the mountaintop gives it great views, and you can look out over the whole city of Matsuyama. The scenery alone makes it worth visiting.
Matsuyama Castle | Review by 小白
Other Reviews by 小白
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Chinoike Jigoku
Bubbling up from deep underground, "netsudei" (volcanic mud) is formed through chemical reactions under extreme heat and pressure, eventually accumulating in this eerie red pond. For centuries, its ominous look has led people to call it a "jigoku" (hell). Stretching some 1,300 square meters, Chinoike Jigoku has existed for over 1,300 years and is now a well-maintained, must-visit attraction in Beppu.
Chinoike Jigoku and Umi Jigoku actually have totally different vibes. The contrast between the red and blue is really striking, and the visual impact is pretty direct and impressive.
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Shimanami Kaido (Seaway)
The “Shimanami Kaido” is a 60 km long road connecting Honshu and Shikoku. It connects Onomichi City in Hiroshima Prefecture to Imabari City in Ehime Prefecture, and bridges six islands in the Seto Inland Sea. It consists of the Nishi-Seto Expressway, Ikuchijima Road, and Oshima Road.
It looks great in photos, but being there in person feels even more immersive.
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Itsukushima Shrine
Itsukushima Shrine stands on the island of Itsukushima, which is also known as the island of gods. It is said that the shrine was founded in 593 by Saeki no Kuramoto, and the 3 goddess “Ichikishimahime-no-Mikoto,” “Tagorihime-no-Mikoto,” and “Tagitsuhime-no-Mikoto” are enshrined there. Famous for granting a wide list of benefits, these three goddesses as are worshipped as the goddesses of the sea, transportation, fortune, and art.
Itsukushima Shrine is truly breathtaking. The giant torii gate out on the water is especially impressive—at high tide, it looks like it’s floating on the sea.
At low tide, you can walk right up to it and see the details. The whole atmosphere feels sacred without being overwhelming, and with the deer and ocean views on Miyajima, it’s actually more relaxing than I expected. -
