Matsue Castle is absolutely worth making a special trip for.
It is one of only 12 surviving original castle keeps in Japan, and one of the very few designated as a National Treasure—only five castles in the entire country have that status.
Compared with many castles rebuilt in reinforced concrete after the war, the most captivating thing about Matsue Castle is that it has beautifully preserved its original wooden structure from more than 400 years ago, dating back to the early Edo period. That simple, steady, and dignified sense of history is something modern reconstructions simply can’t match.
Matsue Castle | Review by 10BRENDA
Other Reviews by 10BRENDA
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Wakkanai Fukuko Market
This waterfront complex offers a full Wakkanai experience-dining, shopping, soaking in natural hot springs, and savvy hacks for sightseeing, all in one place.
You can shop for fresh seafood and dried seafood products here, and if you buy seafood, the shops also offer packing services.
There are also several restaurants, so you can pick whatever you like.
We happened to visit right when sea urchin season was starting, so you definitely have to try it. It was really sweet and delicious, with your mouth full of that fresh ocean flavor. -
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Wakkanai Park
Wakkanai Park spans approximately 45.2 hectares and sits on the hills west of Wakkanai’s city center, offering sweeping views of the cityscape and harbor. It's one of the city's top cherry blossom spots, with Ezoyamazakura (Ezo mountain cherry trees) blooming around mid-May. The park is also recognized as part of the “Japan Night View Heritage” thanks to the stunning city lights seen from its elevated vantage points.
From the platform inside the park, you can overlook the entire Soya Bay and get a panoramic view of Wakkanai.
The gentle sea breeze feels really cool and refreshing.
You might even spot deer walking around the park. -
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Shiroi Koibito
Everyone in Japan knows Hokkaido’s sweets, “Shiroi Koibito.” Ishiya Co., Ltd.was an ordinary candy maker to begin with, but utilizing quality ingredients in Hokkaido changed them into the producer of the classic dessert. More than 40 years passed since its beginning, but it is still the beloved souvenir of Hokkaido to this day.
A must-visit and must-buy spot when traveling in Hokkaido. They sell a rich and creamy Shiroi Koibito soft serve on site, and it’s fragrant and delicious.
Personally, I like the tin packaging the most since the cookies are less likely to get crushed. -
