Miyazaki Jingu Shrine | Review by 楊雅雯

Lake Ikeda

Located in the southeastern part of the Satsuma Peninsula, Lake Ikeda is the largest lake in Kyushu, boasting a circumference of 15 km and a depth of 233 meters. Formed over 5,000 years ago through volcanic activity, it took shape after six major eruptions in the surrounding area, eventually becoming the caldera lake it is today.

• Kagoshima
• Nature Spots

I was really looking forward to capturing the dreamy view of blue skies over Lake Ikeda with Mount Kaimon, the “Satsuma Fuji,” in the background. Unfortunately, the weather didn’t cooperate, and it was cloudy the entire time. Still, Lake Ikeda was very appealing! It’s one of the largest lakes in Kyushu and a crater lake formed by a volcanic eruption more than 5,000 years ago. The lake is incredibly vast, and walking along the shore was very relaxing. Although there was no sunshine, the lake had a peaceful quality that gave it a different kind of charm.

HUIS TEN BOSCH

This is the largest theme park in Japan, with beautiful European-like cityscapes and a canal that leads to the sea. The park is decorated with seasonal flowers and illuminations and has a wide range of the latest attractions. The park is also filled with excitement and a moving experience through a variety of events.

• Nagasaki
• Amusement Parks & Theme parks

Coming to HUIS TEN BOSCH really feels like being transported to Europe in an instant. The park is huge, and everywhere you go there are fairy-tale streetscapes, canals, castles, and fields of flowers. Every corner is photogenic, and every picture looks like a postcard. There are also plenty of rides and attractions. Even after spending the whole day there, it still felt like there was more to do.
The only slight disappointment was that it was cloudy that day. With blue skies, fields of flowers, and European-style buildings, the photos would definitely have looked even dreamier and felt more like a European vacation. But looking at it another way, the cloudy weather made it less hot and sunny while walking around, and I still took tons of beautiful photos!
If I get the chance, I'll definitely come back on a clear, sunny day and capture HUIS TEN BOSCH at its most beautiful.

Kyushu Railway History Museum

Located in the Mojiko Retro District, this railroad museum is housed in a Meiji-era red brick building that was the former headquarters of Kyushu Railway Company. The museum exhibits old rolling stock, uniforms of past station staff, and railroad equipment, and is fun not only for railroad fans but also for the whole family.

• Kitakyushu
• Museums

If you're planning to visit Mojiko, the Kyushu Railway History Museum is definitely worth stopping by! Even if you're not a railroad fan, you'll still find yourself having a great time exploring it.
The museum is housed in a renovated red-brick building from the Meiji era, giving it a historic, retro feel. It was also once the headquarters of the Kyushu Railway Company. As soon as you enter, you can experience the story of Kyushu's railways through trains from different eras, station uniforms, and all kinds of railroad equipment.
My favorite part was the train-driving simulator. It felt incredibly realistic, letting you experience driving a train from Mojiko Station as if you were the conductor! There's also an exhibit featuring the classic Tsubame train, which is a major highlight for many railroad fans.
The museum includes the main building, a rolling stock exhibition area, a mini railway park, and a locomotive display area. Adults can revisit railway history, while kids can have a great time. It's a great place for the whole family to explore at a leisurely pace and take photos. If you're visiting the Mojiko Retro District, be sure to add it to your itinerary. It's more interesting than you might expect!