It doesn't take long to walk up the steps. The air is fresh, and it's a very quiet place.
Kumano Hongu Taisha Shrine | Review by Rene Wang
Other Reviews by Rene Wang
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Minoh Visitor Center
A free visitor facility located in Meiji no Mori Minoh Quasi-National Park, an area blessed with rich nature and ecosystems despite being close to a major city. The exhibition room inside introduces the park’s attractions and distinctive features in an easy-to-understand way through explanatory videos and taxidermy displays, where Approx. 1,100 species of plants, over 3,000 species of insects, and many wild birds and animals can be found.
The location is super convenient. If you need a map or directions, you can take care of everything here in one stop.
The staff inside are very kind, and they can communicate in English too. They also recommend walking routes and seasonal spots for fall colors.
The place is clean and bright, and there’s a seating area where you can take a short break. The restrooms are clean as well.
If it’s your first time in Minoh, it’s definitely worth stopping by here before you head out. It makes planning the rest of your trip a lot easier. -
Shukunegi
Shukunegi, located in an inlet of Ogi Bay at the southern tip of Sado Island in Niigata Prefecture, is a port town that prospered during the Edo period through the shipping trade and shipbuilding. More than 100 buildings stand closely together on approximately 1 hectare of land, and the area is designated as an Important Preservation District for Groups of Traditional Buildings by the national government. The buildings lining the narrow alleys are known for their distinctive architectural style, which incorporates the skills of ship carpenters, such as the use of ship planks and ship nails on the exterior walls.
A beautifully preserved old village with rows of wooden houses that really make you feel the history. Walking through it feels like stepping back in time.
The winding little alleys feel full of stories, and you can still spot traces of its old shipbuilding culture. The whole atmosphere is calm and relaxing, which makes it perfect for a leisurely walk and some photos. It has such a unique charm!! -
Morioka Station Building Fes"an
About 160 stores offering a wide variety of goods such as fashion items, interior goods, lifestyle goods, cosmetics, restaurants, and food stores are gathered in the station building directly connected to JR Morioka Station. Many famous national brands have opened their first stores in Iwate, and the area is crowded with locals and tourists on weekends.
They sell everything from local souvenirs to cosmetics—it's basically a mini department store. You can pick up all the famous Morioka noodle gift sets here in one go.