You can see all of Showa Shinzan in about 10 minutes. There's a ropeway station nearby that takes you up to Mt. Usu, and you can also see Lake Toya from there.
Mt. Showa-Shinzan | Review by Wendy Wong
Other Reviews by Wendy Wong
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Karatachi Literary Footbath
Located in Yanagawa City-known for producing seven notable literary figures including Kitahara Hakushu, Dan Kazuo, and Hase Ken-Karatachi Literary Footbath is a unique spot where literature and relaxation come together. As you soak your feet, you can browse panels introducing these writers through photographs, anecdotes, and excerpts from their works, letting your thoughts drift into their literary worlds.
It’s not a big place, but it’s really clean and has that artsy, bookish vibe—not one of those footbaths packed with tourists. It’s super quiet while you soak your feet, and it’s comfortable to just zone out or chat. Perfect stop when you’re tired from walking.
The water isn’t so hot it’s uncomfortable, and after a bit your feet actually warm up. Great for fall/winter or in the evening. Overall it’s not some must-see major attraction, but if you happen to pass by, you’ll feel like “nice, that was a win.” Very laid-back and soothing. -
Zenigata Sunae "Kan'ei Tsuho" (Kotohiki Park)
Zenigata Sunae "Kan'ei Tsuho" is a giant sand drawing created on the white sand of Ariake Beach in Kotohiki Park, a scenic spot in Kanonji City, Kagawa Prefecture. Modeled after an Edo-period coin, the sand drawing measures Approx. 122 m east to west, Approx. 90 m north to south, and Approx. 345 m around, and is said to have been created overnight during the Edo period to welcome a feudal lord.
The park itself is very quiet, with lots of shade, so it’s really comfortable to walk around. It doesn’t feel too commercialized. I’ve heard that seeing this sand drawing brings good fortune and good health.
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Rairaikyo Gorge
Scenic beauty as far as the eye can see at this gorge carved by the Natori River flowing between Mt. Kamuro in the Ou Mountains to Sendai Bay. The name "Rairaikyo" was given by Tomotaka Komiya, a disciple of Natsume Soseki and an honorary professor at Tohoku University, in 1931, with "Rai" referring to the abundance of rocks.
There are several trails in the gorge, with observation decks and rest areas along the way. You can get up close to the stunning scenery and capture some amazing shots of the natural landscape.