Winter in Hokkaido is almost unfairly beautiful! Surrounded by snow the whole way, I arrived around Lake Shikotsu and Lake Toya, and the scenery looked just like a postcard.
This area is known as a “museum of active volcanoes.” The lake views are gorgeous, and you can also feel the unique landforms created by volcanic activity. Winter is less lively than summer, but it has a quiet, mysterious atmosphere. Standing by the lake in the cold wind, watching the snow-covered mountains reflected on the water, I couldn’t help but stop and take it all in.
Shikotsu-Toya National Park | Review by 王小鈞
Other Reviews by 王小鈞
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Mt. Inasayama Observatory
At 333m above sea level, this observatory stands at the top of Mt. Inasayama at the center of Nagasaki City. The observatory with a cafe and restaurant offers a view over Nagasaki Bay, Unzen, Amakusa and Goto Islands.
If you come to Nagasaki, you definitely shouldn’t miss Mt. Inasayama Observatory! Take the ropeway up to the 333-meter summit, and you’ll be greeted with a stunning 360-degree view.
During the day, you can see Nagasaki Bay, Unzen, Amakusa, and the Goto Islands in the distance. At night, it becomes truly breathtaking, with countless lights spread across the mountains and sea like jewels scattered over the earth.
No wonder Nagasaki’s night view was once chosen as one of the “New Three Great Night Views of the World.” Sitting at the observatory with a gentle breeze, watching the whole city slowly light up, I honestly couldn’t help thinking, “This trip was absolutely worth it!” -
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Kumamon Square
Kumamon is the mascot of Kumamoto and cutely named as such the Prefecture’s Sales and Happiness Manager. You can find him all across Kumamoto, pointing out some of its best attractions. He’s so popular that Kumamon related merchandise is said to be reaching a cumulative total of 1 trillion yen. At this spot you’ll find the office of this amazing mascot, and if you time it just right, you might even get a chance to meet him.
Kumamon isn’t just cute—he actually has the official title of “Sales and Happiness Manager of Kumamoto Prefecture”!
When you visit Kumamon Square, you have to stop by the manager’s office for a photo, sit at his desk, and check out his trophies and “workday” routine. If you happen to catch Kumamon on duty, you can watch him perform up close and take photos together. The cuteness level is off the charts!
And don’t forget to browse the limited-edition merch at the end. You may say you’re only buying one thing, but you’ll probably walk out with a big bag. -
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Kasugataisha Shrine
At the beginning of the Nara period, Takemikazuchi-no-mikoto is said to have ridden on sacred deer from Kashima in Ibaraki Prefecture to Mt. Mikasa to protect Heijo-kyo and promote national prosperity.
Kasugataisha Shrine really has a magical feel. As soon as you step onto the approach, the stone lanterns and forest scenery create such a relaxing atmosphere.
The most fun part is that after just a short walk, deer will come over like they’re “on patrol.” They’re not afraid of people at all, and they definitely know how to find the camera!
Besides praying at the shrine, don’t forget to take a photo with Nara’s little deer. Just remember, they’ll be checking to see if you have deer crackers in your hand. Put your things away after the photo, or they’ll be even more enthusiastic than you are! -
