Kamikochi | A breathtaking hidden gem you have to visit at least once in your life
I once saw the beautiful scenery of Kamikochi in a travel magazine, and quietly made a wish to come here someday. This time, I planned a special one-day trip to Kamikochi and finally checked it off my dream list!
Kamikochi, known as the "home of the gods," truly lives up to its reputation. The crystal-clear Azusa River, the majestic Hotaka mountain range, and the dreamy forest trails make every step feel awe-inspiring. The whole place feels like a living landscape painting, and it was hard to leave.
What made it even better was the amazing weather that day. The blue sky and white clouds reflecting over the mountains and river made every casual photo look like a postcard. Whether it was the famous Kappa Bridge or the forest paths along the way, every corner was worth stopping to admire.
If you love nature, enjoy photography, or just want to get away from the noise of the city and experience pure natural beauty, I sincerely recommend visiting Kamikochi at least once. It’s not just a scenic spot, but a place where you can truly relax and feel the charm of nature.
Kamikochi | Review by 王小鈞
Other Reviews by 王小鈞
-
Miyazaki City Phoenix Zoo
A leisure spot where you can enjoy animal viewing and attractions in a tropical setting. It is also known as Japan’s first “ecological zoo,” featuring mixed-species exhibits. The Approx. 150,000-square-meter grounds overlook the Pacific Ocean and are lined with palm trees, creating an open, Miyazaki-style atmosphere. The zoo is home to Approx. 900 animals from 80 species, including Asian elephants, flamingos, and red pandas.
When I came to Miyazaki City Phoenix Zoo, I was really looking forward to enjoying the rides, seeing the cute animals, and leisurely exploring the entire park.
Unfortunately, the weather didn't cooperate, and it rained all day. Many of the outdoor attractions were unavailable, so I could only take a slow walk under my umbrella. However, because of the rain, there were very few visitors, which made it especially pleasant to walk around, and the animals looked different than they do on sunny days.
That's how travel is—it may not be perfect every time, but every trip leaves you with memories of your own. I hope I get the chance to come back and fully enjoy everything here next time. -
-
Miyazaki Jingu Shrine
This shrine is the crown jewel of Miyazaki, and it worships the first Emperor Jimmu. Alongside the emperor, his parents, the god Ugayafuki-Aezu-no-Mikoto, and goddess Tamayorimi-Himenokoto is worshiped. Visitors pray to the altars in hope for being successful in education, business, and maternity. The festivals in October is dubbed “Jimmu-sama”, and is attended by many.
Miyazaki Jingu Shrine is one of Miyazaki's most iconic shrines. It enshrines Emperor Jimmu, Japan's first emperor, and the Grand Festival held every October is an important local event.
We visited on a weekday, and there really weren't many people. As soon as we entered the shrine grounds, everything became quiet. The tall trees, wide approach, and pleasant surroundings naturally made us slow down and quietly take in this rare sense of tranquility.
It isn't the kind of flashy, eye-catching attraction, but it's a good place to stop by while you're in the area, take a walk, snap some photos, and enjoy a relaxing trip without the crowds. -
-
Sengan-en
Sengan-en is a Japanese garden made for the Shimadzu family estate by Mitsuhisa Shimadzu in 1658. The grounds boast a sprawling 50,000 square meters in total. The garden itself uses the “borrowed scenery” technique, incorporating Kagoshima’s coveted spots like the volcano Sakurajima and Kinko Bay as a natural backdrop.
When visiting Kagoshima, you shouldn't miss Sengan-en.
This Japanese garden, with more than 300 years of history, makes Sakurajima and Kinko Bay part of the garden itself. I really admire the ingenuity of the people who created it. As you stroll through the grounds, the scenery constantly changes with every step, and every angle looks like a postcard.
There aren't many visitors on weekdays, so you can take a leisurely walk, take photos, and quietly appreciate this garden that blends nature and history through borrowed scenery. If you enjoy slow travel, it's well worth spending a morning here. -
