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.
Yamagata Zao Onsen Ski Resort | Review by 蘇自強
Other Reviews by 蘇自強
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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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Matsumoto Castle
Matsumoto Castle was built between the years 1593 and 1594. It is one of the oldest of the still-standing “gojuu-rokkai” (five roofs, six stories) structures in Japan, and it has been registered as a national treasure.
I really love Matsumoto Castle! It feels like an old friend, and every time I visit Japan, I always want to go see it.
Years ago, when I first came to Matsumoto, I bought a book at a bookstore and asked the clerk how to get to Matsumoto Castle. To my surprise, he walked me to an intersection, pointed ahead, and said, “Just keep walking straight from here, and you’ll see it!”
Matsumoto Castle has a different appearance in the morning, at noon, and in the evening. When the lights come on at night, it still retains its dignity and steadiness amid the dreamlike atmosphere!
This is a quiet, friendly little city with a strong artistic atmosphere. It’s truly worth visiting again and again! -
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Otaru Canal
Otaru Port, which developed as a gateway for Hokkaido's settlement, saw an increasing volume of cargo over the years. To streamline its transportation, the "Otaru Canal" was completed in 1923 (Taisho 12). The canal, created by reclaiming the offshore coast, is characterized by its gentle curves rather than a straight line.
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! -
