The thick snow made the climb a lot harder, but once I reached the top, it felt totally worth it.
Yama-Dera (Hōjusan Risshakuji Temple) | Review by Yulinlin
Other Reviews by Yulinlin
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Hakusan Ichirino Ski Resort
Located near the Ishikawa-side entrance of the Hakusan Shirakami-go White Road, at the foot of the sacred Mt. Hakusan, this is the largest ski resort in Ishikawa Prefecture. The resort offers a wide range of courses for all skill levels, including three steep, ungroomed runs for advanced skiers, several intermediate courses such as the Nodaira slope, and gentle beginner slopes. The kids’ park, packed with fun play equipment, is especially popular for sledding and other activities. Night skiing is also available, allowing families to enjoy skiing together from morning until evening.
There aren’t a ton of runs, but it’s really friendly for beginners and intermediate skiers. The slopes aren’t overly steep, so it doesn’t feel stressful. It’s usually not as packed as the super popular resorts either, so the whole vibe is more laid-back. If it’s your first time skiing, this is actually a great place to practice—you won’t be startled by experts flying past you 😂
The biggest perk is being able to hit an onsen right after you’re done. When it’s freezing out, soaking after your legs are toast feels amazing, and the fatigue seriously melts away. The surrounding area also has that quiet Japanese mountain feel—great air, and it’s really pretty for photos. -
Taiwanese Pan-Fried Baozi Paopaotei
A pan-fried baozi specialty shop loved as an Osu Shopping Street favorite. Inspired by the famous Shilin Night Market stall “Da Shanghai Shengjianbao” in Taiwan, the owner recreates that street-food taste in Nagoya. Everything, from the flour to the fillings, is carefully selected, and every baozi is handmade without machines for authentic flavor.
One bite and you’ll get why so many people line up. The skin is pan-fried to perfection—the bottom is lightly charred but not hard.
You get that little crunch first, then it’s soft inside. Great texture. The pork filling is juicy (not dry at all), and the seasoning is on point—flavorful without being too salty.
Best eaten hot, and it’s even better with chili sauce.
Affordable, satisfying, and totally something I’d buy again. Works as a meal or a snack. -
Uozu Aquarium
A municipal aquarium in Uozu City, Toyama Prefecture, founded in 1913. It is known as the oldest existing aquarium in Japan. Inside, the exhibits focus on creatures that live in the rivers and seas of Toyama Prefecture, with more than 10,000 animals from Approx. 330 species on display. The highlight is the 4-meter-deep large Toyama Bay tank, where you can watch schools of large fish from Toyama Bay, including yellowtail and longtooth grouper, swimming together.
Overall, it has a very simple, local feel. It’s not one of those newest, super flashy aquariums, but it’s really easy and relaxing to visit. The aquarium isn’t large, so you can see everything in about an hour. It fits nicely into a gap in your itinerary.