I came to Oga in August. Although I couldn't experience the famous winter Namahage Sedo Festival in person, you can see the terrifying Namahage all over Akita as soon as you enter the prefecture. Luckily, I'm not a child, or these uniquely shaped, fierce-looking demons really would have scared me to death! This is a highly distinctive and deeply meaningful cultural tradition that's worth experiencing!
Namahage Sedo Festival | Review by 蘇自強
Other Reviews by 蘇自強
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Tottori Sand Dunes
Located on the Sea of Japan side of Tottori City in Tottori Prefecture, the Tottori Sand Dunes stretch 16 km from east to west and 2.4 km from north to south, making them one of the largest dune systems in Japan. These dunes, designated as a special protected area and a Natural Monument of Japan, are a major tourist attraction representing Tottori Prefecture.
My first time visiting the long-awaited Tottori Sand Dunes.
After transferring to a bus at Tottori Station, I arrived at the destination with ease. Even though it was already September, the weather here was still just as hot as in Taiwan.
After crossing the main road, a vast ocean view and a “desert” appeared before my eyes. It was truly breathtaking! At that moment, I forgot all about the intense heat and only wanted to walk into the “desert” and experience the feeling of roaming across the frontier. With the sea and sky blending into one and stretching as far as the eye could see, this scenery unlike anything I had ever seen left a deep impression on me! -
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Gokayama Ainokura/Suganuma Gassho-Zukuri Village
In the southwestern tip of Toyama Prefecture, Gokayama consists of 40 small villages scattered across five valleys.
I'm sure many people have already experienced the charm of Shirakawa-go's gassho-style village. But if you go a little farther, you can experience a simpler, quieter, and more authentic gassho-style village. This is Ainokura in Gokayama, which, like Shirakawa-go, is also a World Heritage Site. No matter the season, the face of this quiet village is sure to move you!
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Narai-juku
It is Japan's longest post town, stretching about 1 km along the old Nakasendo Route. Located at the highest elevation among the 11 inns on the Kisoji Route, which is known for its perilous passes, the town used to be so crowded with travelers that it was called "Narai Senken (Narai of One Thousand Buildings)”.
I arrived at Narai-juku early in the morning, before any tourists had shown up. This quaint historic street is perfect for a quiet, leisurely stroll while taking a close look at the carefully maintained, well-preserved buildings, which are simple and stately. The peaceful atmosphere makes it easier to experience the charm of the Edo period.
This is an in-depth destination worth visiting in any season, and one you'll want to return to after your first visit! -
