Anyone who has been to Hokkaido has probably visited Otaru. And anyone who visits Otaru will surely stop by the Otaru Canal.
In early September, I came to Otaru again. Even though it was still summer, it was only 21°C here. Sitting alone by the canal and watching boats slowly carry tourists through the water was so relaxing! So cool and refreshing!
This place has a different charm in spring, summer, fall, and winter, making it worth visiting again and again!
Otaru Canal | Review by 蘇自強
Other Reviews by 蘇自強
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Huis Ten Bosch Illuminations
The Huis Ten Bosch illuminations have been ranked No. 1 in Japan for 13 consecutive years (*1) at the International Illumination Award, selected by certified night view experts.
Before coming to Huis Ten Bosch, I thought it was just an amusement park and nothing special!
I came here just before Christmas and realized that it’s actually a place full of joy! Despite the cold winter, all kinds of colorful flowers were in bloom, making it feel like spring! When the lights came on at night, it was not only festive but also incredibly romantic!
Yes! This really is a great place for all ages and well worth a visit! -
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Osaka Science Museum
A science museum in Nakanoshima, Osaka. Carrying on Japan’s first science museum, the Osaka Municipal Electric Science Museum, it lets everyone from kids to adults learn about science under the theme “Space and Energy.” The planetarium is especially popular for its programs with live commentary by astronomy-savvy staff. With one of the world’s largest screens and a high-performance projection and video system, you can enjoy a stunning, incredibly lifelike starry sky.
Whether for sightseeing or business, people often come to Osaka. Sometimes the hustle and bustle of downtown Osaka can make you feel restless and tense. But if you use a short break to visit Nakanoshima, you’re guaranteed to feel completely refreshed!
Take a walk along the river, visit the rose garden or library, or sit down and slowly enjoy a cup of coffee—it makes you forget you’re in a big city! -
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Namahage Sedo Festival
The second weekend of February (Fri. - Sat.) each year in Oga City, Akita Prefecture, rings in a winter tradition with over 60+ years of history that draws travelers near and far. The festival combines the Sedo Festival, a Shinto ritual performed at Shinzan Shrine on January 3rd each year, with the ancient local tradition of Oga no Namahage, attracting countless visitors every year.
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!
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