Every year when fall arrives, I want to visit Hokkaido University because the ginkgo trees along Ginkgo Avenue are incredibly dreamy! I returned again this year. Although it was still a few days before the best viewing time, the fall colors were already enough to make me stop and linger, reluctant to leave.
I asked several Hokkaido University students passing by whether they enjoyed studying there. They all answered in unison: “It’s fun 😀!” I think they really are happy, because studying in such a beautiful, spacious environment must be both fulfilling and enjoyable!
Hokkaido University | Review by 蘇自強
Other Reviews by 蘇自強
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Hirosaki Castle
Hirosaki Castle served as the residence of the Tsugaru clan and the administrative center of the Hirosaki Domain during the Edo period. Following an order to abolish castles in the Meiji period, it was preserved and later opened to the public as Hirosaki Park. The original castle keep was destroyed by a lightning-induced fire in 1627. The keep rebuilt in 1810, along with three turrets and five castle gates, remains standing today. These nine structures are designated Important Cultural Properties of Japan.
I'm sure many people love chasing cherry blossoms in spring, and even more have admired them in different places. If you've seen the cherry blossoms at Hirosaki Castle, you'll understand why they're so famous!
Especially when you visit Hirosaki Castle after the cherry blossoms have reached full bloom, a spring breeze sends the petals fluttering through the air, creating an unforgettable sight! The moat is completely covered with fallen pink petals, leaving you speechless! It's hard to describe that feeling; only those who have seen it with their own eyes can understand. -
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Yamagata Zao Onsen Ski Resort
With 26 courses and 34 lifts, this is the largest snow resort in Japan. The big slope is made up of 6 areas with an array of courses for beginners and the advanced. The quality of snow is so good that skiers and snowboarders flock here seeking for the fluffy powder snow.
I'm sure many people have experienced the famous Zao Snow Monsters. But I chose to visit the “Zao Okama” in early summer.
Surrounded by mountains, this crater, shaped very much like a cooking pot, is called “Okama.” I heard that depending on the weather and temperature, the lake water inside Okama takes on magical colors resembling lapis lazuli or emerald! When the weather is good, the deep blue lake paired with the patches of white snow still remaining on the ground makes you want to keep looking and never leave. -
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Kochi Castle
Kochi Castle was built by Yamauchi Kazutoyo, the first feudal lord of the Tosa domain. It was first built in 1601 after ten years of construction, and unfortunately lost to a fire in 1727. The castle you see today was reconstructed in 1753. Kochi Castle is one of 12 since the Edo Period that still has its original castle tower, and is the only one that keeps both its original castle tower and main Honmaru Palace hall. The entire 15 buildings across its grounds are registered as a National Important Cultural Asset.
I’m sure many people have visited Kochi Castle, and many come here just to take a walk and have a quick look around. If you’re not a historian, like me, almost every castle may look more or less the same. But if you choose a time when there are fewer visitors (I like to arrive early) and carefully appreciate the castle’s design, its curves, contours, and even its colors... you’ll be amazed. Why not give it a try next time!
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