The Matsue Horikawa Sightseeing Boat is truly a perfect example of blending slow city living with nature.
Sitting on the charming old-style boat and slowly drifting along the moat around Matsue Castle, with weeping willows, old trees, and traditional samurai residences along the shore, it feels like time is flowing backward. The slow pace makes your whole body relax.
What’s even more moving is the eco-friendly environment this waterway reflects.
Even though it runs through the heart of Matsue City, the moat is full of life thanks to the local community’s careful protection of the water quality and surroundings.
Matsue Horikawa Sightseeing Boat | Review by 10BRENDA
Other Reviews by 10BRENDA
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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 when traveling to Hokkaido. The shop also sells a rich and creamy Shiroi Koibito soft serve, and it’s delicious.
Personally, I like the tin packaging best because the cookies are less likely to get crushed. -
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Hoshino Resorts Tomamu - Unkai Terrace
The Hoshino Resorts Tomamu boasts an observation deck where you can marvel at the dynamic sea of clouds up close. It's open exclusively in the early mornings from May to October, when the sea of clouds typically appears. When the meteorological conditions align, a magnificent sea of clouds flows over the mountains, offering truly heavenly views. The deck gives you the sensation of floating amidst the clouds, making you feel as though you're embarking on a voyage across a sea of mist.
The powder snow at Hoshino Resorts Tomamu in Hokkaido is truly famous for being top-notch! That light, fluffy “silk snow” feels so soft that falling over is like landing in a marshmallow. It’s absolutely a paradise for ski lovers.
Gliding and weaving through the powder really tests your core and leg muscles. By the end of the day, you’re totally exhausted, but it’s also incredibly fun and so rewarding! Since you come skiing often, I’m sure you know that smooth, immersive feeling of focusing completely as you ride through a silver-white world and losing yourself in the moment. -
