Kawakami-An Head Shop Karuizawa | Review by 向文典

SHIBUYA SKY

An observation facility offering a 360-degree panoramic view of the Tokyo cityscape from a height of approximately 230 meters above the ground. Located on the 14th, 45th, 46th and rooftop of Shibuya Scramble Square, the tallest building in the Shibuya area, there are three zones: "SKY GATE," "SKY STAGE" and "SKY GALLERY.

• Shibuya
• Observatories

Sky Gate is on the rooftop of Shibuya Scramble Square, right by Shibuya Station. There's a 360-degree open-air observation deck called SHIBUYA SKY, which is perfect for checking out Tokyo's cityscape and night views. The glass corners are super Instagrammable and it's become a must-visit spot for both locals and tourists!

Besides the outdoor deck, you can see Tokyo Tower, Skytree, Shinjuku, Tokyo Bay, and even Mt. Fuji all at once. It's honestly breathtaking! ❤️

Yanagawa River Boating

Yanagawa, also known as the city of water, is located in the south of Fukuoka Prefecture. Here you’ll find old-world streetscapes that still keep the lattice-like waterways from the Edo period. When you’re here, the absolute must-see is the inter-city river boating experience. No matter what season, you’re guaranteed for a fun and relaxing time as the boat captain serenades and shares stories around the area.

• Fukuoka
• Ships

One of my most unforgettable places in Kyushu is Yanagawa, known as the 'City of Water.' The river cruise is about 4 kilometers long. What's special is that the boatman rows the small boat while singing Japanese folk songs... The boatman even does cute and funny gestures, letting you really feel the local culture and the charm of this ancient water town.

When passing under bridges, you have to duck or even lie down to avoid hitting your head on the bridge or branches. It's a really fun Yanagawa boat experience!

After the cruise, I highly recommend trying Yanagawa's famous eel rice at Wakamatsuya, a century-old restaurant. Wakamatsuya has been around since the Ansei era (1854-1859). The rice is steamed to perfection and tastes amazing. When you open the box, you can immediately smell the rich, unique sauce, and the seasoned eel is so flavorful. It's just so delicious! 😋

Ginzan Onsen

This hot spring resort was developed along with the Nobesawa Silver Mine which prospered in the Edo Period. After the mine was closed, it was turned into a therapeutic onsen resort until a flood destroyed it in 1913. By early Showa Period, local businesses have helped restore the village close to the current landscape with western-style wooden multi-story buildings on either side of Ginzan River.

• Yamagata
• Hot Springs & Hot Spring Resorts

Ginzan Onsen in 2019! ♨️ It really felt like stepping into the world of Spirited Away... The snowy scenery at Ginzan Onsen was absolutely breathtaking. I went with a tour group this time, so I didn't get to stay at a ryokan. I really wanted to see Yubaba's bathhouse and try their famous soba noodles, but because of the tight schedule, I didn't have time—such a shame. The guide mentioned there's a free outdoor foot bath at the entrance of the onsen street, so you can soak your feet and watch people go by—such a great vibe! In the distance, you can see the famous Notoya Ryokan, which inspired the bathhouse in the anime. As a big Spirited Away fan, it was amazing to finally visit Ginzan Onsen and see Notoya in real life, just like in the movie with its unique colors and fun characters. It felt so surreal! As you walk down the onsen street, you'll come across a little red bridge. Once you cross it, you'll find Takimikan, one of the famous onsen hotels, and their soba noodle shop. If you get the chance, definitely try it out! Eating soba while watching the snow fall outside was such a moving and satisfying experience. ❤️