I'm really drawn to these old streets full of Japanese charm. Even if you don't buy anything, just walking around is a lot of fun!
Hida Takayama Old Townscape | Review by 江雪
Other Reviews by 江雪
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Tokyo Summerland
This large-scale leisure hub sits in Akiruno City, drawing crowds for its massive outdoor lazy river pool-one of the largest in Japan-and an indoor pool just waiting for you to dive in no matter what the season or weather. Pop over easily from Tokyo Station in just over an hour by train thanks to easy access that keeps this hot spot on the list.
Perfect place to cool off in summer.
There’s an indoor pool so you can still have fun even on rainy days, and outside there’s a super long lazy river and water slides.
Both adults and kids can easily spend the whole day here.
There’s also an amusement park area, so if you’re not into water activities, you still have other options 👍 -
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Hashi no Furusato-kan WAKASA
A famous traditional craft from the Wakasa region of Fukui Prefecture: Wakasa lacquered chopsticks. They are decorated with materials such as eggshells and seashells, then coated with multiple layers of lacquer and carefully polished to create intricate patterns. This technique has been passed down since the Edo period, and today Wakasa chopsticks account for 80% of Japan’s lacquered chopstick production. The place to fully experience the appeal of these 400-plus-year-old Wakasa chopsticks is Hashi no Furusato-kan WAKASA.
There are tons of gorgeous chopsticks on display inside, from traditional styles to modern designs. You’ll seriously want to take them all home 🤣.
There’s also a souvenir shop next door for small gifts—perfect for a quick stop and some photo ops. -
Aragijima
A historic rice terrace with a unique fan-shaped landscape, recognized as Wakayama Prefecture’s only Important Cultural Landscape. It has also been selected for Japan’s 100 Best Rice Terraces and the Beautiful Villages of Japan Landscape Contest, making it a symbolic landmark of Aridagawa. The terraces are said to have been developed around the 17th century to make effective use of land formed by the erosive action of the Aridagawa River that flows nearby.
Such a quiet, down-to-earth little island. Life moves slowly there—perfect for relaxing and doing absolutely nothing.
The water is super clear, and on a nice day the views are stunning. It seriously feels like your own private little paradise.
There aren’t many tourist facilities, but that’s exactly what gives it that untouched, natural island vibe. If you like slow, laid-back travel, you’ll definitely fall in love with this place.
