The Ken & Mary Tree is located in Biei, Hokkaido. It's a famous Lombardy poplar that became popular after appearing in a car commercial. Standing alone in a vast field against Biei's blue sky and rolling hills, the view is simple yet very distinctive.
There are no elaborate tourist facilities—just one tree, a vast field, and an open sky—but that's exactly what makes it feel so relaxing.
Sapporo Nijo Fish Market
"Sapporo Nijo Fish Market" is said to have been established in the early Meiji period (1868-1912) when fishermen from Ishikari Beach started selling fresh fish. Today, the market is home to not only fresh fish stores but also fruit and vegetable stores, taverns, etc., and is loved not only by tourists but also by locals as the kitchen of Sapporo citizens.
Of course, the thing I was most looking forward to at Nijo Market was trying Hokkaido seafood! Fresh sea urchin and salmon roe with a steaming seafood rice bowl—every bite was packed with fresh flavor and truly satisfying. Besides enjoying the food, you can browse the market and check out all kinds of Hokkaido specialties. The atmosphere is very lively.
My biggest takeaway from this market visit was, “When in Hokkaido, you have to eat seafood!” Everything from the fresh ingredients to the local cuisine left a lasting impression.
Naturie Hatomugi Skin Conditioner
This toner contains barley extract, a natural moisturizing ingredient. It feels clean on your skin and has excellent skin permeation. For optimal skincare, it is recommended to apply a layer equivalent to a 500 yen coin three times at the start of your skincare routine.
Naturie Hatomugi Skin Conditioner is a popular affordable Japanese skincare product. It has a light, hydrating texture and is easy to apply with either your hands or a cotton pad. It doesn't feel heavy or sticky, and leaves your skin feeling soft. It's great for everyday moisturizing.
Iejima Island
Floating in the sea west of the Motobu Peninsula on Okinawa Main Island, Iejima Island is a small island with a circumference of Approx. 22 km. It takes Approx. 30 minutes by ferry from Motobu Port, making it a popular remote island destination for easy day trips. Gusukuyama, one of the Okinawa Eight Views, is the island’s symbol and was long used as a landmark for navigation. The view from the top is spectacular, and at 172 m above sea level, it is an easy climb.
What I love is the laid-back, unspoiled island atmosphere here. After arriving by ferry, away from the hustle and bustle of the city, you're greeted by the deep blue sea and vast natural scenery, and you quickly start to relax.
What attracted me most on the island was the impressive Gusukuyama, also known as Iejima Tacchu. It looks very distinctive even from a distance, and with the blue sky and greenery around it, it looks great in every photo. Taking your time to enjoy the island scenery along the way also lets you experience the unique tranquility of rural Okinawa.
