Introducing new apparel that will brighten up Hokkaido's winter!
We have a large stock of winter apparel, including fleece and down jackets! Down jackets are a must-have item for staying comfortable during Hokkaido's cold winters.
Enjoy winter in Hokkaido with a jacket that is not only warm but also easy to move in and trendy.
Patagonia
Windproof and warm, it keeps you dry and comfortable even in the rain.
Jackson Crasher Jacket
71,500 yen (tax included)
・Mammut
Equipped with a Gore-Tex waterproof membrane, this jacket offers high levels of waterproofness, windproofness, and breathability, while also being urban and stylish.
Obelix Gore-Tex Hardshell Thermocoat
99,000 yen (tax included)
・The North Face
The jacket's outer material is made of strong, water-repellent ripstop nylon, and the areas that come into contact with a backpack are reinforced with nylon material for increased durability.
Novelty Nuptse Jacket
42,900 yen (tax included)
Snowshoes
A winter essential that keeps slippery roads comfortable and reduces the cold coming from the feet.
To ensure a safe and enjoyable winter trip, we recommend shoes that are designed with performance in mind.
·Columbia
It is equipped with Columbia's unique heat retention function "Omni-Heat Infinity" and "Omni-Grip Ice" which provides excellent grip.
Yellow Tail Ice Magic Shorty
18,920 yen (tax included)
Sorel
A Sorel signature that boasts a design that has remained unchanged for over 40 years.
The sturdy construction means it can withstand even the coldest climates, giving you a great sense of security.
Caribou Waterproof
24,200 yen (tax included)
・The North Face
The Vibram Arctic Grip outsole provides excellent grip even on icy surfaces. The ankle section can be removed to adjust to different temperatures.
Don't worry if you miss this flight! There are only two chances a year!
The Mimasaka Slow Life Train is actually not a once-a-year event. It normally runs twice a year, in spring and autumn (mainly around May and November), so even if you miss this November run, you'll have a chance to ride it again the following spring . Operation dates and detailed information are regularly announced on the official websites of JR West and Tsuyama Learning Railway Museum, so be sure to check them out and plan your next Mimasaka Slow Life Train trip!
This train is a three-car train with all reserved seats, and will operate as the "Mimasaka Slow Life Train" between Tsuyama Station and Nagi Station (between Nagi Station and Chizu Station it will operate as a local train with all unreserved seats). At each station the train stops at, warm local "omotenashi" (welcoming and service) events will be held, attracting visitors.
The outbound journey departs Tsuyama Station at 11:50 and arrives at Chizu Station at 14:45.
The return journey is scheduled to depart Chizu Station at 14:53 and arrive at Tsuyama Station at 16:35.
Please note that the stop time at Nagi Station is short.
Full of highlights! Special "hospitality" events at each stop
At each station where the Mimasaka Slow Life Train stops, you can enjoy various events, exhibitions, and gourmet food sales that make use of the local characteristics (※Event content may be subject to change).
Experience retro railway heritage at Tsuyama Station and Mimasaka-kamo Station!
Tsuyama Station: A steam locomotive welcomes you
At Tsuyama Station, a C11 steam locomotive is on display in the rotary. Additionally, about a 10-minute walk away is the Tsuyama Learning Railway Museum, where you can learn about the history of Japanese railways.
Stop times: Departure at 11:50 on the outbound journey, arrival at 16:35 on the return journey.
Mimasaka-kamo Station: Enjoy the precious semaphore and gourmet food
This station is a treasured spot for railway enthusiasts, as it was the last station in Japan to use semaphore signals (old-fashioned mechanical signals).
Items for sale : Pound cake, pie choux, apple pie (outbound trip only), wild vegetable rice, curry, jerk chicken burger, udon, wagyu beef skewers, yakitori, hot coffee, chai, etc.
Event: When shopping on the way there, you can participate in a lottery, and if you win, you can exchange it for local specialties on the way back (there is no lottery on the way back).
Stop time: 36 minutes on the outbound journey, 17 minutes on the return journey.
A tour of Showa and film locations! Takano Station and Mimasaka-takio Station
Takano Station: Experience the nostalgic "Showa" era
Exhibition: The "Nostalgic Showa Exhibition" will be held only on the 8th. Here, home appliances and movie posters from the Showa(1926-1989) will be on display.
Stop time: 5 minutes on the way there.
Mimasaka-takio Station: A film location and a cultural property station building
The wooden station building, which was built in Showa and retains its original appearance, is registered as a "Registered Tangible Cultural Property" by the Agency for Cultural Affairs.
This place is famous as the location for the final installment of the popular Japanese film "Otoko wa Tsurai yo," and in recent years it has also been used as the location for the graduation song of a former member of the popular idol group "Nogizaka 46."
event :
The theme song for "Otoko wa Tsurai yo" will be performed (only on the 9th).
Local bands will perform (9th only).
You can enjoy taking photos with staff dressed as the film's main character, Tora-san, and with a face-in panel.
Items for sale: Lunch boxes (8th and 9th), yakisoba (9th only), railway goods (Tsuyama Learning Railway Museum goods, etc.), original Slow Life Train panel magnets, etc.
Stop time: 34 minutes on the outbound journey.
Revealing precious facilities in the mountains! Mimasaka-kawai Station and Nagi Station
Mimasaka-kawai Station: Tour of the manual turntable and experience operating it
This small station, nestled quietly in the mountains near Monomi Pass, still retains a valuable manual turntable (a manual device for changing the direction of locomotives).
event :
Visit the manual turntable, a heritage site of modern industrial development.
Experience driving a track bicycle (cancelled in case of rain).
Event hours: 11:00-14:30.
Participation requirements : Elementary school students and above (elementary school students must be accompanied by a parent or guardian). When the train stops (13:58-14:14), only those on the Slow Life Train can participate.
Items for sale : Fried chicken, mochi, abaokowa (rice cakes), aba apple pie, ginger tsukudani (simmered in soy sauce), etc.
Stop time: 17 minutes on the outbound journey.
Nagi Station: Old memories and Yosakoi dance performance
This station is located at the foot of Monomi Pass on the Tottori side, and the stairs leading up to the platform are decorated with photos of old memories.
event :
Performance by a Yosakoi group (9th only, from 14:35).
You can enjoy the hospitality for approximately 35 minutes until the return journey from Chizu Station.
For sale: Persimmon leaf sushi, handmade baked goods, local specialties, etc.
Stop time: 2 minutes on both the outbound and return journeys.
Ticket enquiries and other information
All seats on the Mimasaka Slow Life Train are reserved, so tickets must be purchased in advance.
For ticket inquiries :
JR West Customer Service Center: 0570-00-2486
*Please check the JR West official website or the "Midori no Midori" ticket counter for purchasing methods. For foreign visitors tourists, it is convenient to purchase tickets on the JR West official website (English version, etc.) or at a travel agency.
What is "Gozu Onsen-go," Where You Can Bathe in Three Different Springs?
Gozu Onsen-go that can be accessed from Tokyo in about three and a half hours by Shinkansen and rental car. In 2016, it was designated as the 93rd national hot spring resort in Japan.
Gozu Onsen-go is said to have been discovered by Kobo Daishi over 1,200 years ago, and the story is still passed down among locals today.
This is a rare hot spring area where three hot springs with slightly different components - Deyu, Imaita, and Murasugi - gush forth within an area with a radius of about 3 kilometers. Each hot spring has its own bathing spot, making it perfect for hot spring hopping.
What these three hot springs have in common is that they are rare "radium hot springs," a general term for hot springs that contain a certain amount of radon in their water.
Radon emits minute amounts of radiation, which is expected to have many beneficial effects, including those related to neuralgia, gout, and gynecological disorders.
It has a history of being a popular hot spring resort, so we recommend staying for several nights to enjoy the benefits of the radium hot springs.
11 Best Gourmet, Sightseeing & Onsen Spots in Gozu Onsen-go
Gozu Onsen-go is full of tourist attractions, where you can enjoy the scenery of each season and find gourmet food that can only be found here.
We will introduce in detail the spots where you can enjoy sightseeing in Gozu Onsen-go while also enjoying interactions with the locals.
Yamahimizu is the perfect place for lunch, where you can enjoy freshly cooked kamameshi. They use koshihikari rice produced in Agano City and polish it in-house, so you can enjoy shiny rice at any time.
The most popular dish is the Gomoku Kamameshi, which is packed with ingredients such as shrimp, scallops, salmon, and shiitake mushrooms, and the flavor increases with each bite.
The secret to its popularity is the generous portion of the set, which includes miso soup, a small bowl of side dish, pickles, and fruit.
The limited-time "Duck Hot Pot Set Meal" is also a favorite with many fans. The duck hot pot, with its rich fat, will make you want to eat every last drop, even the soup, but please be patient. Finish off with some rice porridge or udon noodles, and enjoy every last bit of the ingredients.
[Gourmet] Mori no Okashiya-san gland: Delicious Desserts You'll Crave Daily
"Mori no Okashiya-san gland" is located between Imaita Onsen and Murasugi Onsen. The shop is located at the foot of a Mizunara oak tree, where acorns grow, and so the name "Gland," which means acorn in French, is said to have been chosen for the shop.
We recommend the Gateau Chocolat, made by the owner, Mr. Kato, who loves chocolate, and the chiffon cake, which is easy to eat while strolling around.
The gateau chocolat is a masterpiece made with plenty of chocolate. Its rich and thick taste makes it the perfect treat when you want to pamper yourself.
The chiffon cakes are made with different batters and ingredients each day, so you can enjoy a different flavor whenever you visit. They also use plenty of seasonal fruits, such as Shine Muscat, Le Rectier, and Echigo Hime.
The fluffy and chewy texture of the chiffon cake in particular is so high quality that you'll never forget it once you've tried it! It's also easy to take home as a souvenir, so be sure to visit when you're craving sweet treats.
[Gourmet] Deyu Onsen Bakery: Famous for Fluffy Bread Made with 100% Onsen Water
Deyu Onsen Bakery is famous for its bread made with Gozu hot spring water and plenty of local ingredients. It's a gourmet spot you should definitely check out when sightseeing around Deyu Onsen.
The water used to make the bread is 100% Deyu hot spring water. They also use locally produced natural yeast, which makes the bread incredibly chewy and fluffy!
Their best-selling item is their take-out bread, which is enthusiastically supported by both tourists and locals. To avoid selling out, try to come early.
Store Information Address: 809-1 Deyu , Agano City, Niigata Prefecture Business days and hours: [Closed] Wednesdays and Thursdays [Business hours] 8:00-16:00 (9:00-16:00 on Fridays only) Phone number: 0250-62-1566 Website: https://www.instagram.com/deyuuonsen_pancobo/ Access: 5 minutes on foot from Agano City Bus "Deyu Onsen" stop, 20 minutes by taxi from JR Uetsu Main Line "Mizuhara Station"
[Gourmet] Aichaku Coffee Deyu Onsen Cafe: A Sophisticated Coffee Time for Adults
Aichaku Coffee Deyu Onsen Cafe is located a three-minute walk from Deyu Onsen Bakery. Opened in 2018, the moment you step inside, you'll get the strange feeling that times have changed.
This is thanks to the antique furniture that the owner, Mr. Ishikawa, has collected over the years, and the relaxed atmosphere created by the old house that has stood the test of time in this area. This is a genuine coffee shop that you should visit when you want to take some time to reflect on yourself while traveling, or when you want to take a break after a bath.
The shop's top recommendation is their freshly brewed Aichaku Coffee, which is best enjoyed with homemade cakes and scones.
This restaurant welcomes travelers as a place for adults, and children under junior high school age are not allowed inside. This is a famous restaurant that maintains an atmosphere that can only be found here and quietly provides hospitality to its customers.
Store Information Address: 738 Deyu , Agano City, Niigata Prefecture Business days and hours: [Closed] Wednesdays and Thursdays (also closed on public holidays) [Business hours] (Weekdays) 8:00-16:00 (Last order 15:00) (Sundays and holidays) 8:00-15:00 (Last order 14:00) Phone number: 0250-62-8686 Website: https://www.instagram.com/nenrinsha/ Access: 5 minutes on foot from Agano City Bus "Deyu Onsen" stop, 20 minutes by taxi from JR Uetsu Main Line "Mizuhara Station"
[Sightseeing] "Ikoi no Mori": Be a Guest in Nature's Home
Ikoi no Mori is a tourist spot where you can take a stroll through nearly untouched nature. A full loop takes about 20 to 30 minutes, and it is a place where locals usually walk their dogs and socialize, becoming a part of their daily lives.
You can enjoy plenty of nature, including the calm river, the sacred tree that is the master of the forest, and the lawn where you can enjoy forest bathing. You can enjoy a quiet and enriching time, feeling as if you are interfering with the natural ecosystem.
If you go to the office near the parking lot, you might even meet Suzu, the cat who lives in Ikoi Forest, and the chickens Sanpei and Luna. One of the joys of Ikoi Forest is being able to feed them, pet them, and interact with these gentle animals.
[Sightseeing] Yamabiko Street: The Perfect Trail for an Active Walk
More than 250 stone monuments line the forest road that stretches from the hot spring entrance to the Murasugi entrance. These make up Yamabiko Street, the largest road for haiku, tanka, and senryu poetry in Japan.
Agano City has long been known for producing many writers and poets, such as Sato Nenpuku and Ishizuka Yuji. Yamabiko Street was created in order to provide a venue for haiku poets and tanka poets from within and outside Niigata Prefecture to present their work, inspired by Matsuo Basho's "Oku no Hosomichi."
Along the roughly 5-kilometer route, you'll find a collection of poems that will make you want to speak out loud, as well as tanka poems that will make you chuckle. Try fitting a visit into your sightseeing itinerary, whether that's taking a walk or admiring the majestic stone monuments from your car.
[Sightseeing] "Urara no Mori" : Find Niigata Souvenirs & Enjoy a Hearty Lunch
If you're looking for souvenirs from Agano City and Gozu Onsen-go, head to Urara no Mori.
Urara no Mori, located at the entrance to Murasugi Onsen, is like a roadside station in the Gozu Onsen-go.
The store has a great selection of souvenirs, including locally picked vegetables that morning, sake, and snacks.
Additionally, Urara no Mori is also home to Yuizakura, a popular restaurant serving set meals. One of the most popular dishes is the hearty Sankakuage Set Meal. The large, freshly grilled deep-fried tofu is so delicious it goes perfectly with rice. We also recommend eating it with condiments.
Other popular dishes include fried pacific saury, which changes daily, and hearty dishes like tempura bowls and pork cutlets. A visit to Urara no Mori, beloved by locals, may make you fall in love with Agano City even more.
[Sightseeing] Hyoko Suikin Park: Meet Swans and See Breathtaking Seasonal Nature
A 15-minute drive from the center of Gozu Onsen-go will take you to Hyoko Suikin Park, where you can enjoy the beautiful lake and nature throughout the year.
Every year between early October and early March, thousands of swans migrate from Siberia. On busy days, more than 5,000 birds can be seen flying in, creating a spectacular sight.
At the Lake Hyoko Swan Observation Facility on the lakeside, you can observe swans from a warm location. You can also see swans that have remained behind in Siberia even outside of the migration season.
If you want to see the swans, it's convenient to reserve the free "Lake Hyoko Bus," which is available exclusively to guests staying at inns in Gozu Onsen-go. The bus departs at 6:30 a.m. and will pick you up and drop you off even if you're just one person. It's only available for two months, from November to December.
Hyoko Suikin Park is also a spot where you can observe seasonal flowers, such as cherry blossoms and irises in the spring and lotus flowers in the summer. It is a recommended tourist destination for those who love traveling in contact with nature.
[Onsen] Kaho-ji Public Bath: A Gentle, Simple Onsen Perfect for a Daily Dip
You can enjoy Deyu Onsen on a day trip at the Kahoji Public Baths. It is a rare spot in Japan where a hot spring facility is located on the temple grounds.
The hot spring water, which flows directly from the source, is clear, colorless, and odorless, making it perfect for a relaxing soak. Its greatest appeal is that it is smooth and doesn't feel like a hot spring.
Regulars who have been coming for decades all praise Deyu Onsen, saying things like, "It's easy to bathe in because it has no strong flavor," and "It's a hot spring I could bathe in every day."
The effects of Deyu Onsen can be felt after bathing. Even though the water is lukewarm, you won't stop sweating and you'll feel like your metabolism is being stimulated.
[Onsen] Choseikan: Soak in One of the Prefecture's Largest Outdoor Baths
If you want to enjoy a relaxing day trip to a hot spring, we recommend Choseikan, where you can soak in Murasugi Onsen. Choseikan's hot springs include the "Large Garden Open-Air Bath," which boasts an area of 3300m2 for both men and women.
A long tunnel connects the indoor bath to the open-air bath, making the journey enjoyable.
Once you exit the tunnel, you will be greeted by a spectacular view of seasonal flowers and a spacious open-air bath. The scenery of spring, summer, autumn, and winter, from cherry blossoms and fresh greenery to autumn leaves and snow, will thoroughly relax your body and mind.
One way to enjoy Murasugi Onsen is to take a deep breath while soaking in the hot spring. Try inhaling the radium contained in the steam and absorbing the hot spring's beneficial effects.
After bathing, you can relax in the lobby lounge "Shiki." You can also freely use the "drinking spring water" to take in more hot spring water after your body has improved its metabolism in the hot spring.
This is a rare spot where you can enjoy the three things that are unique to Gozu Onsen-go: bathing, inhaling, and drinking.
[Onsen] Yakushi-no-Yu: A Healing onsen Loved by Locals
Located about a minute's walk from Choseikan are Yakushi no Yu and Footbath, both of which offer bathing in Murasugi Onsen. These facilities are ideal for travelers who want to bathe empty-handed.
Purchase a bathing ticket from the ticket machine at the front desk, and after passing through the changing room, you will enter the hot spring. After washing your body in the shower, you can slowly get your body used to the hot spring by taking a half-body bath.
Murasugi Onsen, whose source temperature is only 25 degrees, is heated to an appropriate temperature according to the season. Because the temperature is adjusted to a comfortable bathing temperature, you can soak in the hot spring for a long time.
It's a great place not only for sightseeing, but also as a place to stop by after walking or mountain climbing.
There's also a foot bath behind Yakushi no Yu that anyone can enjoy. This unique foot bath offers jets, bubbles, and foot massages, and is visited by many people even on weekdays. Just donate 100 yen and relax in the bath to soothe your tired feet.
Yakushi no Yu is open from 7:00 to 20:30. Why not visit it as part of your hot spring itinerary in the Gozu Onsen-go?
After touring the various hot springs and tourist spots, we took a break at Yumotokan, the base of our trip. Yumotokan boasts one of the largest numbers of guest rooms in the Gozu Onsen-go , and is an inn that will make you excited just by exploring the building.
The hotel is packed with attractions, including the young proprietress's hobby room "Mogura," a lounge with a panoramic view of the garden, and a shop stocking carefully selected souvenirs from Niigata.
Once you arrive at Yumotokan, the first thing to do is head to the famous hot springs.
Imaita Onsen, which can be enjoyed at Yumotokan, is a precious hot spring that can only be enjoyed here. The water is lukewarm at about 40 degrees, making it easy to bathe in, and it is a famous hot spring known for its "beauty skin water" and "fertility water."
When bathing in a hot spring, you can feel the benefits more effectively if you follow the order of pouring water over yourself, then half-body bathing, and then full-body bathing. After pouring water over yourself thoroughly, you can move on to half-body bathing.
The water warms your toes and waist gently, soothing your mind and bringing a smile to your face. Even when you soak up to your shoulders, the water is not too hot and feels just the right amount of comfortable.
It's tempting to stay in the light, refreshing water for a long time, but if your forehead or nose start to get sweaty, it's best to take a break. Switch to a half-body bath or wash your body, and enjoy a relaxing bath.
After bathing, do not take a shower, but simply wipe off the water droplets with a towel soaked in the hot spring water to prolong the medicinal effects.
After the bath, it's time for the long-awaited dinner. Yumoto's specialty, carp dishes, brightly decorate the table.
Enjoy a luxurious feast of carp dishes, including sashimi "arai," "sweetened carp," and "carp soup" simmered in miso. Carp dishes are said to have many benefits, including helping with love, improving breast milk after childbirth, and activating the brain.
Enjoy the bounty of Niigata food along with the local sake carefully selected by the young proprietress.
On the morning of your departure, you will be treated to a delicious meal that will touch your heart, including salad and boiled tofu from Kawakami Tofu, a popular local tofu shop, grilled trout salmon with Nishikyo seasoning, and miso soup made with homemade koji miso.
With unlimited refills of rice and miso soup, you'll find yourself eating heartily from the morning onwards.
Messages from the young owner and proprietress are scattered throughout the inn, and many guests are captivated by its homey and friendly atmosphere. This is a must-visit for those looking for a seasonal change of season, a hot spring cure, or an inn that they will want to return to again and again.
The most convenient way to get to Gozu Onsen-go from Tokyo is by Shinkansen and rental car. Take the JR Joetsu from Tokyo Station for about two hours, then rent a car from Niigata Station.
It takes about an hour by car from Niigata Station to Gozu Onsen-go. By traveling by car, you can easily enjoy touring the three hot springs of Deyu, Imaita, and Murasugi.
For those who want to enjoy the scenery along the way, we also recommend traveling by bus or train. Take a bus or train from Niigata Station to JR Suwon Station, then take the Agano Municipal Bus from in front of Suwon Station for 30 minutes to reach Gozu Onsen-go.
Enjoy a free tour of the hot springs at Gozu Onsen-go, depending on your schedule, season, and travel style.
Gozu Onsen-go: The Legendary Hot Springs of Kobo Daishi
Gozu Onsen-go was designated as the 93rd national hot spring resort in Japan in 2016. Located in the Kaetsu region of Niigata Prefecture, the hot spring resort can be accessed from Tokyo in about three and a half hours by Shinkansen and rental car.
Gozu Onsen has a long history, and is said to have been discovered by Kobo Daishi over 1,200 years ago, and is still passed down as a legend today.
The charm of Gozu Onsen-go is that you can enjoy radium hot springs, which are rare even in Japan. Radium hot springs are hot springs that contain a certain amount of a component called radon in their water.
Radon emits small amounts of radiation, which is said to have various benefits for neuralgia, gout, and gynecological diseases.
Another great thing about Gozu Onsen is that you can not only soak in the hot springs, but also inhale and drink them. The area has a history of being a popular hot spring resort, so it's a good idea to Tomari for several nights and fully enjoy the benefits of the radium hot springs.
If you are staying for multiple Tomari, be sure to check out the three hot spring areas of Gozu Onsen-go. The collective name for the three hot spring areas of Deyu, Imaita, and Murasugi is "Gozu Onsen-go."
All hot spring resorts are within a 3km radius, so it's easy to move around freely by rental car, which is another attractive feature.
Top 3 Ryokans for Your Perfect Stay in Gozu Onsen-go
If you want to enjoy Gozu Onsen at your own pace, we recommend staying overnight. This time, we will introduce some charming accommodations in the three hot spring areas where you can enjoy bathing: Deyu, Imaita, and Murasugi Onsen.
[Deyu Onsen] Seikokan: A Charter Member of Japan's "Secret Hot Spring" Association
Seikokan is a charming hot spring inn with a history of over 300 years. The three-story wooden building, built in 1928, still retains its original appearance.
When you step inside the inn, you'll be greeted by the gentle scent of trees. The lobby, with natural light streaming in through the large windows, is enveloped in the warmth and calm that only a wooden building can provide.
Seikokan's hot spring is Deyu Onsen, the oldest in the prefecture, having been in operation for 1,200 years. As you bathe, you'll be lured in by the steam and feel the smooth texture of the hot spring water as you surrender yourself to the luxury of it.
The luxurious hot spring water, which is 100% free-flowing from the source, has a mild, mild quality and is said to be effective for neuralgia, fatigue recovery, high blood pressure, and chronic gynecological diseases.
One of the attractions of this hot spring is that it is exclusively for guests staying at the hotel, so you can relax without the crowds. It is the perfect place for those who want to enjoy a quiet moment.
[Murasugi Onsen] Choseikan: Unwind in the Grand Outdoor Bath (Rotenburo) All Year Round
Choseikan is an inn that boasts the largest garden open-air bath in Niigata Prefecture. With a combined area of 3300m² for both men and women, the indoor bath is connected to the open-air bath by a long tunnel.
The glass-walled indoor bath has an open feel, and you'll be enveloped in rising steam even before you enter, creating a special space where you can "inhale" the radium hot spring water. Boasting one of the highest radium contents in the country, you can absorb its beneficial effects from deep within your body.
After warming up in the indoor bath, it's time to head to the large open-air garden bath. Once you pass through the tunnel, you'll find the spectacular large open-air garden bath.
Cherry blossoms in spring, fresh greenery in summer, autumn leaves in fall, and snowy scenery in winter. Hot springs, surrounded by nature, allow you to experience Japan's four seasons and are a relaxing space that stimulates all five senses.
The hot springs are open to both overnight guests and day visitors. One of the attractions is the wide variety of ways to enjoy them, such as alternating hot and cold baths and enjoying the tent sauna.
The inn also has a "healthy radium hot spring drinking fountain" where you can "drink" radium hot spring water.
All guest rooms offer a view of Choseikan's garden, perfect for relieving the fatigue of travel.
Whether you're staying for the day or overnight, this is recommended for those who want to enjoy Murasugi Onsen at their own pace.
Yumotokan, located between Deyu Onsen and Murasugi Onsen, is the only inn in Imaita Onsen.
Imaita Onsen is said to be effective for treating neuralgia, muscle pain, and arthritis, and you can also enjoy forest bathing in the open-air bath.
The large public bath and open-air bath are open 24 hours a day, so you can enjoy the blessings of Imaita Onsen as many times as you like after checking in. Of course, day-trip bathing is also available, and is divided into two sessions: from 10:30 to 15:00 and from 18:00 to 21:00.
When you go to the changing room to take a bath, you will see a poster that says, "How to bathe properly at Imaita Onsen." It says that bathing in the following order will enhance the effects: pouring water over your body, then bathing half your body, then bathing your whole body.
Immediately pour the hot spring water over yourself, letting your body get used to the hot water, and then start half-body bath. When you entered the hot spring, the warm water gently envelope your body.
All of the hot springs in Gozu Onsen, including Imaita Onsen, are colorless, transparent, and odorless, so they have no unpleasant taste and are very easy to bathe in.
Among them, Imaita Onsen is known as a "bath for fertility" and a "bath for easy childbirth," and is visited by many pregnant women.
The smooth texture and comfortable temperature of the water make it easy to end up taking a long bath. It's recommended to gradually soak in the water, switching to a half-body bath when your forehead or nose start to sweat, or taking a break after washing your body.
After bathing, instead of taking a shower, wipe off the water with a towel soaked in hot spring water to prolong the medicinal effects.
Additionally, the meals at Yumoto, which are made with love, are extremely popular.
The table will be decorated with boiled tofu from the popular local tofu shop Kawakami Tofu, salad, black sesame tofu kneaded for two hours, and a variety of Yumoto's specialty carp dishes.
The carp dishes for dinner include sashimi "arai," "sweetened carp," and "carp soup" simmered in miso, all of which are mild and flavorful. It is said to have various effects, such as helping to find love, improving breast milk production after childbirth, and stimulating brain function.
In the evening, enjoy a relaxing and satisfying time with some sake carefully selected by the young proprietress.
Yumotokan also offers a shuttle service from Niigata Station, so even those who aren't good at driving can rest assured. Why not experience a special moment at Yumotokan, where you'll be treated to warm hospitality with hot springs and gourmet food?
If you want to drop in and enjoy Gozu Onsen, a day trip is perfect. Even if you only have a short time, you can still fully enjoy the benefits of the hot springs.
Kaho-ji Kyodo Yokujo: A Unique Bathhouse within Temple Grounds
Kahoji Public Bath is a rare day-trip hot spring facility located on the grounds of a temple, even in Japan. It is a popular hot spring that is constantly bustling with people from early morning until late at night.
Many people have been coming here for decades, and regulars say, "It has no strong flavor, so I can go there every day."
It has no smell or color, but it also has a sweat-inducing effect, and because it's lukewarm, you can soak in it for a long time, which is why it's so popular with hot spring enthusiasts.
The luxurious hot spring water is just the right temperature for a relaxing soak. You can also inhale radium from the steam, so you'll find your body and mind relaxed before you know it.
Enjoy a bathing experience that can only be found here while chatting with the regulars.
"Yakushi no Yu" - Soak in Healing Steam and Good Fortune
Yakushi no Yu is a day-trip bathing facility where you can enjoy Murasugi Onsen. It is a luxurious hot spring that boasts a flow rate of 483 liters per minute.
It is located just a minute's walk from Choseikan and has long opening hours, from 7am until 8:30pm.
Once you pass through the stylish wooden changing room, you'll be greeted by warm steam and crystal clear hot spring water. There are also plenty of washing areas, so it's a great place to stop by after hiking or mountain climbing.
There are many ways to spend your time here, such as relieving fatigue from travel or activities, or enjoying interactions with the locals. Once you've thoroughly warmed up, try moving on to the foot bath.
The foot bath behind Yakushi no Yu is a spot where anyone can enjoy a foot bath for a donation of 100 yen. It is a premium foot bath that offers foot care with jets, bubbles, and foot massage.
The U-shaped foot bath is a great place to chat and have a great time. Enjoy the once-in-a-lifetime encounter while slowly absorbing the hot spring water through your feet.
The most convenient way to get to Gozu Onsen from Tokyo is by Shinkansen and rental car. Take the JR Joetsu from Tokyo Station for about two hours, then rent a car from Niigata Station.
It takes about an hour by car from Niigata Station to Gozu Onsen-go. By traveling by car, you can easily enjoy touring the three hot springs of Deyu, Imaita, and Murasugi.
For those who want to enjoy the scenery along the way, we also recommend traveling by bus or train. Take a bus or train from Niigata Station to JR Suwon Station, then take the Agano Municipal Bus from in front of Suwon Station for 30 minutes to reach Gozu Onsen-go.
Enjoy a free tour of the hot springs at Gozu Onsen, depending on your schedule, season, and travel style.
ASAKUSA KAEDE: An Elegant Boutique Hotel in Asakusa
Asakusa, Tokyo's historical district, preserves traces of Edo-period lifestyles. With representative structures such as Sensoji Temple and its Kaminarimon Gate radiating traditional Japanese culture, Asakusa attracts visitors from around the world.
Historically, Asakusa served as the entertainment center of Edo’s downtown. Unlike the austere aesthetic of Zen, its traditional Japanese atmosphere carries a glamorous and lively vibe, giving Asakusa a uniquely distinctive charm.
To showcase Asakusa’s charm to both domestic and international visitors, the boutique hotel ASAKUSA KAEDE is located just a few minutes’ walk from Kaminarimon. Inside, it displays traditional crafts with a modern twist.
Building on a Japanese-style foundation, it preserves the purest elements of Asakusa’s Edo heritage while adding playful and creative touches, so that guests feel something fresh no matter how many times they visit.
Guests can spend comfortable moments at any time within the Japanese aesthetic spaces created by ASAKUSA KAEDE.
To keep each visit feeling fresh, nine boutique rooms with different themes were created. The guest rooms are decorated with traditional crafts from various regions of Japan to evoke the four seasons: spring, summer, autumn, and winter.
Check-in is also very convenient, with multiple language options available and a fully automated system to reduce the nervousness of interacting with staff.
Picture courtesy of ASAKUSA KAEDE
Each room includes a tatami corner and, depending on the theme, displays traditional Japanese arts such as kimono, ceramics, and woodblock prints.
Whether outdoors in Asakusa or inside ASAKUSA KAEDE, guests can fully experience Japan’s local culture and customs.
The Edo Suite
Picture courtesy of ASAKUSA KAEDE
The top floor houses the hotel's most spacious room, the Edo Suite, furnished with the highest-quality crafts to evoke the atmosphere of spring.
The loft-style design feels like a private little base in Asakusa, offering a homely sense of belonging.
You can even see Tokyo Skytree from the private balcony or the window.
The space is composed of tatami and wooden elements to create a calm atmosphere, neatly separating the living room and the bedroom into distinct areas.
The Edo Suite can accommodate up to six people. The tatami area converts into a bedroom—spacious and comfortable, and without the worry of small children rolling out of bed—making it a reassuring choice for families.
The Edo Suite features two sets of bath and toilet facilities with separated wet and dry areas, so even when many adults are staying together there's no need to compete for the bathroom.
One of the bathrooms includes a bathtub from which you can also view the Tokyo Skytree through the window.
The indigo-dyeing technique, which has been passed down since the Edo period and is also called “Japan blue,” perfectly complements the theme of Japan’s cool summer.
Because indigo dyeing also has insulating properties, combined with the warm tones of Japanese-style wood, it creates a cozy atmosphere.
In addition to the “Aizome” theme described above, the deluxe suites also include rooms themed around Mino Washi handmade paper and Hiroshige, and can accommodate up to four guests.
The Nishijin Premium Suite
When it comes to kimono culture, Kyoto’s splendid Nishijin weaving is the most renowned.
The Nishijin suite at ASAKUSA KAEDE uses richly colored designs within a single color scheme, subtly luxurious and evoking the hues of Japanese autumn.
Picture of the Hokusai room
The premium twin room with two single beds also includes suites themed on delicate washi paper Karagami and the work of ukiyo-e master Katsushika Hokusai (“Hokusai”), and can accommodate up to four guests.
The Kutani-yaki Queen Suite
The queen suite themed on Kutani-yaki, the top-quality porcelain from Ishikawa Prefecture—especially the Kanazawa area—features decorations and hanging art above the bed that showcase this traditional Japanese craft’s bold colors, unique compositions, and distinctive techniques.
It can accommodate up to three guests. Extra bedding is laid out directly on the comfortable tatami area with fluffy, soft futons, rather than on a typical cold metal-framed bed.
Bathrooms
Each room has a bathtub large enough to stretch your legs, allowing you to experience Japan’s bathing culture.
Instead of providing bottled mineral water like many hotels, and in line with sustainability goals, each room is equipped with a water dispenser.
If you need toothbrushes, brushes, or other toiletries, don’t forget to contact the front desk.
On the other side of the hotel’s first floor is a fresh fruit shochu highball bar. It’s operated by Three Piece, marking their first Asakusa location following the popular Kagurazaka Mediterranean bars Circo and MANVAR, which are well known for their fruit shochu highballs and buzzworthy food.
With their extensive experience, they created Kaede LOUNGE by TOKYOSOURSTAND in a style suited to Asakusa, offering takeout items such as soft serve and amazake panna cotta.
Breakfast is also served at Kaede LOUNGE by TOKYOSOURSTAND.
We ordered the assorted fruit waffles — unlike typical waffles, these are more like Hong Kong street snack “bubble waffles,” piled high with fresh fruit. The natural sweetness of the fruit combined with the crisp-yet-soft waffle shell was delicious!
The hotel staff’s favorite savory waffle (B.E.C.K) is another must-try — the perfect pairing of bacon and runny egg, topped with a rich sauce. Savory and tender, it brings a warm feeling of happiness and is utterly addictive!
Enjoy a Japan-Themed Stay at ASAKUSA KAEDA
Picture courtesy of ASAKUSA KAEDE
The hotel also occasionally organizes hands-on experiences with nearby Asakusa shops, such as workshops for indigo dyeing, sake, silverware, and Edo Kiriko glass. If you’re interested, you can check the official website for details at the official site.
ASAKUSA KAEDE uses traditional crafts from across Japan while skillfully blending them with Asakusa’s character. By changing the usual lofty, distant feeling of crafts into something more approachable, the thoughtfully designed rooms let you feel the warmth of Japanese aesthetics and the spirit of hospitality behind them.
Salomon XT-4 Focus POPUP / October 25th (Sat) - November 9th (Sun)
"atmos" will be hosting a pop-up event, "EXPLORERS BASE by atmos SHINJUK," featuring Salomon's technical running shoe, "XT-4," at the atmos Shinjuku store from Saturday, October 25th to Saturday, November 9th, 2025 .
The "CULTURE EXPLORERS" event is aimed at people well-versed in diverse cultures, including music, fashion, and art. Focusing on the XT-4, known for its comfortable fit for Japanese feet, the event will offer the perfect pair of shoes to brighten up festivals, live shows, and even everyday urban life. The pop-up venue, atmos Shinjuku , will feature the "XT Series ARCHIVE EXHIBITION," which looks back on the history of the XT series, and the "COLLECTOR EXHIBITION," showcasing the precious Salomon collection of Kentaro Kamatani, designer of BAL and a renowned Salomon collector. Additionally, the "Salomon QUIZ" will feature an interactive experience where visitors can enjoy the appeal of the XT-4 in the form of a quiz. Participants will be able to utilize the knowledge gained from the exhibits to take on the challenge, and those who answer all questions correctly will receive a limited edition novelty gift. (The challenge is limited to one per day.)
The store will feature a lineup of carefully selected XT-4 models, allowing visitors to get a deeper feel for the world of Salomon through learning, touching, and experiencing them.
adidas Originals GAZELLE INDOOR POPUP
To celebrate the release of the collaboration model "GAZELLE INDOOR" between atmos pink and adidas Originals, a pop-up will be held at the atmos pink Shinsaibashi storefrom Friday, October 24th to Monday, November 3rd, 2025. During the period, a custom experience will be available for those who purchase adidas shoes or apparel at the atmos pink Shinsaibashi store.
HARAJUKU BLOCK PARTY hosted by atmos / Saturday, October 11th
On Saturday, October 11th, 2025, atmos will host the "HARAJUKU BLOCK PARTY" in the Harajuku/Shibuya area.
With the theme of "The Next Legacy - Connecting the past and the future, passing it on to the next generation," this celebratory moment fuses the street culture of Shibuya and Harajuku, which has supported the atmos brand, with sneaker culture to create the next story. This event is a new connection that shows respect for the culture that atmos has built and strengthens connections with future generations. "Celebrating the past, creating the future" - HARAJUKU BLOCK PARTY is the beginning of writing the next chapter together with the community.
During the day, you can win prizes by participating in a stamp rally that takes you around atmos/atmos pink stores in the Harajuku and Shibuya areas, and at BE STAGE in Yoyogi Park, you can watch dancing and basketball games and take part in activations.
The after-party will also feature a special live performance at CLIB "HARLEM" in Shibuya.
For details about the event, please see the special page.
"atmos", a shop that continues to spread Tokyo's sneaker culture to the world, has created "WOMEN's SNEAKER CULTURE" targeted at women, and advocates a lifestyle derived from sneakers. In addition to national brand sneakers, they have developed original apparel so that sports fashion can be worn daily, and propose a street style for women with a sports mix that combines sneakers. It expresses the daily life of Pinks that makes you want to go out in sneakers.
Introducing some of atmos pink's popular models, special order models, and limited edition models
The latest collaboration between adidas Originals and atmos pink, the Gazelle Indoor MH "Trinity Leopard," is available in three colors. This special edition features atmos pink's signature leopard print, based on the Gazelle Indoor MH, a new fall/winter model featuring mohair material.
atmos pink has released a special edition design for the New Balance U9060. This modern classic shoe incorporates 18th-century baroque style. The brown-based color scheme exudes warmth and calm, adding a touch of classic elegance to modern styles. This special pair for women is a crossroads between history and fashion.
From the Low-Profile, a new staple that is gaining attention this season, comes the new adidas Originals model, the STAN SMITH LO PRO W, in an exclusive atmos pink design.
The shop name "atmos" comes from "atmosphere" and was started with the desire to be a shop that is close to the sneaker community and that is a natural part of the community. Atmos is one of Japan's leading sneaker select shops and offers a wide range of products, including limited edition items and special models that are only available at atmos. They also sell original apparel and are popular with customers from overseas.
Introducing shoes recommended by atmos staff
*atmos does not ship overseas.
NIKE AIR MAX 95 BIG BUBBLE SE "HRJK" / Released on November 1st
To celebrate its 30th anniversary, the Nike Air Max 95 has released a special pair of shoes paying homage to Harajuku. It's no exaggeration to say that the high-tech sneaker boom began in Harajuku, and the Air Max 95, which still exudes a special brilliance, was the catalyst for it. Designed to celebrate the 30th anniversary in Harajuku, a place with a deep connection to its history, this pair is packed with details that will impress any sneaker lover. This product will be sold exclusively at atmos and Nike retail stores.
This special edition atmos model is based on the theme of "HYOUZAN (iceberg)" and was inspired by the mysterious and tranquil beauty of icebergs. The upper features a white, grey, and blue color scheme, with the heel and gel section being a deep blue, creating a colorway reminiscent of an iceberg. The inner sole also features a design of an iceberg floating on the surface of the ocean.
The 11th installment of the classic "ZX 8000" collaboration between atmos and adidas Originals follows the "ZX 9000 OG" colorway and is available exclusively in Japan. The 11th installment of the "ZX 8000 G-SNK" special edition series, which began in 2010, is based on the OG colorway of the "ZX 9000" that debuted in 1989 as part of the "ZX Series," which has defined running style since its introduction in 1984.
Original apparel from atmos/atmos pink is also popular
atmos 25FW COLLECTION
For FW25, we will be incorporating the essence of military, work, and vintage styles to create designs that fuse the past and the future. The lineup skillfully mixes retro and modern styles, combining classic colors and materials with the latest technology.
This season's theme is "REBEL HYBRID," incorporating classic elements such as plaid, military, and denim into street style. Denim items, which are popular every season, are available in designs that create a layered look with just one piece thanks to the use of different materials, as well as a men's-like hoodie jacket and pants set, and a miniskirt that can also be used for layered styles. A set with a military feel has also been released, with a flocked finish.
As the weather cools down, Japan’s seasonal delicacies begin to appear — and autumn is the perfect time to head out and enjoy the colourful foliage.Located in the mountains, Uonuma offers a rich variety of autumn scenery, with its vast elevation range from mountaintops to valleys. This not only means plenty of spots for viewing the leaves, but also a longer season to enjoy them.
Lake Okutadami every end of October to early November
Ginzandaira every end of October
Aburuma River Valley every end of October to early November
Shiori Pass every mid-October to the end of October
Megurotei every beginning of November to the middle of November
Rokujyurigoe mountain road every end of October to the beginning of November
The peak season for autumn leaves varies each year depending on the temperature and weather conditions.
Lake Okutadami — Uonuma’s most famous destination for autumn colours
Lake Okutadami Autumn Foliage Guide
Hop on and cruise through the autumn leaves
Hop on a sightseeing boat at Lake Okutadami for the ultimate autumn foliage experience! In autumn, there are two main routes: the route that circles the lake and the Ginzan-daira route to Ginzan-daira Pier. You’ll get stunning lake views and some of the best spots to admire the colourful leaves.
Have lunch at Okutadami Lake House
Right by the Okutadami car park, the “Okutadami Lake House” offers a stunning view of the reservoir and the surrounding mountains, painted in autumn colours. From Uonuma’s local favourite Kenchin-jiru, to Okutadami Dam Curry Rice, and creamy “Waterfall Cloud” coffee, there’s plenty to try. Don’t miss the wild grape ice cream — highly recommended!
Ginzan-daira — a hidden hot spring town full of exotic charm
Ginzan-daira is a hidden hot spring town nestled at the foot of Mount Echigo-Komagatake and Mount Arasawa.
Enjoy the sound of the Kitanomata River from Ishidaka Bridge, framed by stunning autumn leaves — a truly unmissable sight.
Ginzandaira Onsen
In 2024, Ginzandaira saw the opening of “10 stories hotel Oze”, a new accommodation where you can enjoy a gastronomic experience featuring dishes prepared with fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
Additionally, Ginzandaira is home to the hot spring facility “Shiroganenoyu,” where you can enjoy the perfect combination of a relaxing soak and autumn leaf viewing.
Discover Aburumagawa Gorge — a hidden autumn leaf paradise
Aburumagawa Gorge, near the Fukushima Prefecture border, is still a hidden gem for autumn leaves. The area features native birch forests alongside numerous maple trees, making it perfect for visitors who want to enjoy the foliage in a quiet, uncrowded setting.
When you visit Aburumagawa Gorge, don't forget to visit the following places!
Asakusa Sanroku Ecological Museum (浅草山麓エコミュージアム)
The Asakusa Sanroku Ecological Museum is a prefectural park located deep in Aburumagawa Gorge. The expansive park features multiple hiking trails, allowing visitors to choose routes based on time and distance. The shortest trail takes about 20 minutes and is equipped with well-maintained boardwalks. The park is suitable for people of all ages to enjoy the autumn leaves. At the visitor centre, you can also explore exhibits about the local ecology, enhancing your understanding of the area’s natural environment.
Asakusadake Park（浅草岳公園）
Asakusadake Park is planted with numerous birch trees, allowing sunlight to filter through the forest and letting visitors fully enjoy the sights, sounds, and scents of autumn in Uonuma. Even beyond the peak foliage season, when leaves begin to fall, the ground and canopy are painted in stunning shades of red and gold.
A Top Choice for a Road Trip — Autumn Foliage Route along Shiori Pass
Shiori Pass, located along National Route 352, is a popular spot for autumn foliage. From its 1,065-metre-high summit, visitors can enjoy panoramic views of Oyu Onsen, Okutadami, and the Ginzandaira region. Early risers might even witness the stunning “waterfall cloud.” For tips on how to catch this phenomenon, see our comprehensive guide.
Notice: National Route 352 is closed to vehicles in winter. Please check the latest traffic information before travelling.
Popular Road Trip Route — Rokujūri Pass
Rokujūri Pass located along National Route 252 leading to Fukushima Prefecture, gets its name from a historical perception: though the road is about six ri long (roughly 24 km today), people in the past felt it was ten times as long. From the summit to the base, you can slowly enjoy the changing scenery of all four seasons. Along the way, you may spot trains on the JR Tadami Line, which was once named “the most romantic railway route” by Taiwan. With a bit of luck, you can watch the train winding through the beautiful mountain landscapes.
Notice: National Route 252 is closed to vehicles in winter. Please check the latest traffic information before travelling.
Meguro Residence, a Japanese National Important Cultural Property, is also a great spot for autumn leaves
Meguro Residence was built in 1797 and took five years to complete. It is now designated as one of Japan’s Important Cultural Properties. From inside the thatched-roof house, visitors can enjoy views of the meticulously designed Japanese garden. In autumn, the scene is further enhanced by the vibrant maple leaves, making it even more enchanting.
This autumn, why not plan a trip to Uonuma to enjoy the autumn leaves?
Uonuma City is not far from Tokyo. Take the Joetsu Shinkansen “Toki” and you can reach Urasa Station in about 1.5 hours. The Uonuma City Tourism Association warmly welcomes your visit!
For more information about Uonuma, please check out our official website↓
atmos special edition shoes/atmos limited edition shoes/recommended shoes
Air Max 95 BIG BUBBLE SE “HRJK” / Release date: November 1st (Saturday)
The Nike Air Max 95 will be releasing a special model, the "HRJK," that pays homage to Harajuku. In Japan, it will be sold exclusively at "atmos" and Nike directly managed stores.
AIR MAX 95 BIG BUBBLE SE / 23.0cm-29.0cm, 30.0cm, 31.0cm / ¥27,060 (incl. tax) / All atmos stores and online shop
New Balance U2002 / atmos limited edition model
This limited edition model will be sold exclusively at atmos and New Balance in Japan. The "M2002R" is a symbol of New Balance's LIFESTYLE line, combining a stately upper design inspired by the classic "Made in USA 2002" model released in 2010 with high-performance sole technologies such as N-ERGY and ABZORB®. The "M2002RD" model, which inherits its DNA and has been redesigned for a more modern look, now features a new model made with GORE-TEX® material.
The 11th installment of the classic "ZX 8000" collaboration between atmos and adidas Originals follows the "ZX 9000 OG" colorway and is available exclusively in Japan. The 11th installment of the "ZX 8000 G-SNK" special edition series, which began in 2010, is based on the OG colorway of the "ZX 9000" that debuted in 1989 as part of the "ZX Series," which has defined running style since its introduction in 1984.
adidas GAZELLE STACK with atmos pink Exclusive model
Whether you're strolling around town or heading to the store, these Gazelle stack shoes will elevate your everyday look. Originally conceived as a training shoe, the Gazelle is now a fashion statement. This model features a chunky platform with multiple layers of molded EVA midsole.
The Torioi Festival is said to have begun in 1604 to drive away birds and animals that damage fields, and to pray for bountiful harvests, protection from misfortune in the town, and safety for households. Every year on January 14th, people parade through the town beating about 10 drums of various sizes. The sight of the large drums being beaten in unison while shouting is a spectacular sight. People in their unlucky years and shop owners also throw mandarin oranges, praying for protection from misfortune and prosperity in business.
How to enjoy the Torioi Festival
①Enjoy the drumming!
The simultaneous beating of large drums accompanied by shouts is called "Issei Daiko." You can enjoy the simultaneous drumming from around 12:00 to 20:00 in various locations around the town.
We'll be singing and playing the drums, so be sure to listen carefully to the lyrics!
The Torioi Festival is also held in other areas of the town (Shima Onsen, Sawatari Onsen, Kuni, etc.), and the lyrics are slightly different, so it's interesting to compare them.
The sound of the drums being struck simultaneously is very powerful! Please come and experience it for yourself.
②Let's try playing the Torioi drum!
Between the drumming accompaniment, there is a moment when anyone can try their hand at hitting the drums. You can also try your hand at hitting the drums while being taught the tricks to hitting them well. This is also a chance to pose in front of the large drum and take photos.
3. Catch the lucky mandarins!
After the drumming, the "Mikan Throwing" event takes place. People in their unlucky years throw mandarins to ward off bad luck, and merchants throw mandarins to pray for prosperity in business.
Among the mandarins, there are some that come with prizes, called "Fuku Mikan"! Don't forget to check if the mandarin oranges you catch have a winning ticket attached. Products can only be exchanged on the day of the festival, until the end of the festival.
・Nearest station: Nakanojo Station on the JR Agatsuma Line
About a 15-minute walk from Nakanojo Station. Or take the bus bound for Shima Onsen and get off at the Kaminocho bus stop.
The national highway in front of the Tsumuji Hometown Exchange Center will be turned into a pedestrian zone, and people will parade through the area, beating the drums.
If you are walking, from Nakanojo Station, walk towards the Tsumuji Hometown Exchange Center.
Naruko Onsen, located in Osaki City , Miyagi Prefecture , is one of the most famous hot springs in the Tohoku . Its diverse hot springs are a highlight, with nine of the eleven types of spring water found in Japan.
In this article, we will introduce you to a hotel that is perfect as a base for sightseeing in Naruko. It is perfect for family or group trips, as well as long-term stays for workcations. Please consider staying at our hotel.
Located in Onikobe , Naruko Onsen , Miyagi Prefecture Prefecture, Hotel WAMARE Onikobe is a rental accommodation that can accommodate up to 14 guests. Equipped with living spaces on the first and second floors, it is ideal for large family trips or group stays.
Based on the concept of "a fusion of modern Japanese style and Tohoku culture," you can encounter the warmth of traditional crafts such as Naruko Kokeshi dolls inside the hotel. We offer a special private space where you can experience the history and traditions of Tohoku with all your senses.
Relax in the spacious living room
The first floor is a lively gathering area for all guests, centered around a large table and sofas. In this spacious space, you can enjoy a pleasant meal and conversation while everyone gathers around the table.
The second floor is a quiet and relaxing space with a calming Japanese-style room and a two-seater sofa. It is the perfect place to relax in peace and quiet, whether you're with a small group or reading a book.
[Equipment]
● Television
● Toilet with flushing function
● Air purifier
● Underfloor heating
With a full range of facilities, you can stay comfortably in any season. Enjoy a relaxing stay that feels like a villa, and soothe the fatigue of traveling with a large group.
Relaxing guest rooms
Hotel WAMARE Onikobe offers a total of five rooms: four Japanese-Western style rooms (two beds each) and one Japanese-style room (two tatami mats). Up to ten people can relax comfortably in the bedrooms.
The hotel is fully equipped with amenities and necessary facilities, so you can come light and not have to worry about luggage even if you are staying for a long period of time.
[Equipment]
● Amenity set (toothbrush set, lotion, beauty serum, shower cap, cotton set, body foam towel, razor, hair brush)
● Slippers
● Face towel
● Bath towels
● Welcome drink (one bottle of Tamanarigou per person, 500ml)
● Complete yukata set
Our facilities and services, carefully designed down to the smallest detail, will gently soothe your travel fatigue.
Fully equipped facilities for long-term stays
Hotel WAMARE Onikobe offers a full range of facilities to ensure a comfortable stay for large groups and extended Tomari.
kitchen
The kitchen space is fully equipped with a large refrigerator and dishwasher.It also has a microwave, electric kettle, and various tableware, so you can cook by simply bringing your own ingredients.
[Equipment]
● Refrigerator/freezer
● Microwave oven
● Hot water pot
● System kitchen
● IH stove
● Frying pan
● Cooking equipment
● Cutlery
● Plates
● Teapot
● Glass
● Wine glasses
● Coffee cup
● Teacups, etc.
The kitchen table and cupboards are made of lavish cedar from the Kurikoma region of the Onikobe area, allowing you to enjoy cooking with your family and friends while feeling the warmth of the local nature.
bath
We offer two types of baths so that you can choose the one that suits your mood and the number of people in your group that day.
In addition to a clean unit bath that prioritizes practicality, there is also a fragrant cypress bath.Enveloped in the warmth of cypress, you can spend a relaxing time relaxing both body and mind.
[Equipment]
● Hair dryer
● Organic body soap
● Shampoo
● Conditioner
In addition, the second floor is equipped with a washing machine and a bathroom ventilation/dryer, making it safe for long-term stays.
balcony
On the second floor balcony, you can enjoy a barbecue with your family or friends while looking out at the magnificent nature of Onikobe, surrounded by Kurikoma Quasi-National Park.
[Equipment]
● 2 BBQ stoves (cassette gas type)
● 2 folding outdoor tables
● 2 folding chairs
● Folding outdoor benches x 4
Enjoy a special moment in a luxurious, private space filled with an open feeling.
parking
Guests arriving by car can use the free parking lot in front of the hotel.
Additionally, for large groups and other travellers, we can also arrange a pick-up service (for a fee) from major bases such as Naruko Onsen Station, Furukawa Station, Sendai Station and Sendai Airport.
We will provide you with the best plan to fit your schedule, so please feel free to let us know if you have any requests.
Supermarkets and convenience stores near the hotel
We will introduce supermarkets and convenience stores where you can purchase groceries and daily necessities. Please make use of them during your stay.
A supermarket with a Toyotomi selection of products | MaxValu Mogami store
This supermarket is popular with local residents for its Toyotomi selection and great prices.
It has a reputation for being a place where you can get fresh vegetables and fruits at low prices, so you can easily purchase ingredients you need to cook your own meals during your stay.
The closest convenience store to the hotel | Seven-Eleven Naruko Suezawa Branch
It is open 24 hours a day, making it very convenient for quick top-up purchases or for use at night.
Address: 12-1 Suezawanishi, Naruko Onsen , Osaki City, Miyagi Prefecture
Opening hours: 24 hours
Access: Approximately 20 minutes by car
They offer a wide range of products, including packed lunches and daily necessities, to support your everyday needs during your stay.
The surrounding area is full of hot springs and spots where you can enjoy the abundant nature. Please use this as a reference for your Naruko sightseeing.
This large-scale "bar-hopping" event brings together a selection of unique restaurants in the gourmet battleground in front of Kawasaki Station! For 1,000 yen, you can enjoy a recommended bar set (one drink + one food item) from participating restaurants. Set in the area around Kawasaki Station, Ogawacho, and Nakamise-dori Shopping Street, this event allows you to enjoy the fun of discovering hidden gems that are perfect for you.
Dates: November 2nd to 6th, 2025, and November 9th to 13th, 2025
Location: La Cittadella, Ogawacho area, Nakamise Shopping Street in front of Kawasaki Station, Kawasaki Ginza Street, etc.
Mallory Pork Steak
Beef and Oyster Market
Hard Rock Izakaya Fuel
Kawasaki Soul Food Stall
Dates: Saturday, November 8th and Sunday, November 9th, 2025, 14:00 - 21:00
Location: JR Kawasaki Station East Exit Square, La Cittadella (Cinecitta Street)
*Free admission *Cancelled in case of severe weather
Kawasaki's famous restaurants and popular establishments, long loved by discerning locals, will be gathered together for two days only. You can experience Kawasaki's unique, diverse and deep food culture, which you won't find in Tokyo or Yokohama. Come and enjoy an overwhelming gourmet experience that can only be experienced in the evenings of Kawasaki during these special two days!
Live & Performance
This year's lineup of tribute bands is even more impressive. Queen's "Queeness," Southern All Stars' "Itoshi no Elise," Tatsuro Yamashita's "Tatsurowo Sukiwo," and other talented acts are all lined up. Popular DJs will also be appearing, creating a spectacular stage! There will also be a live performance in collaboration with "Kawasaki Jazz."
La Cittadella Venue (Central Fountain Square Stage, Cinecitta Street Special DJ Stage)
Special Stage at the East Exit Square of JR Kawasaki Station
The "Delicious School Lunch" series is a TV and theatrical production starring actor Ichihara Hayato that has been running since 2019.
Set in a junior high school in the 1980s, this school gourmet comedy depicts a battle between "school lunch absolutist" Amarida Yukio and a male student who is a "school lunch maniac" over who can "eat school lunch more deliciously."
"Amarida Yukio's School Lunch Path" depicts the endless battle between Amarida Yukio and a male student (Tsuburai Ken) as a running game, making it a competitive running game that can be enjoyed not only by fans of delicious school lunches, but also by anyone who likes games.
point
・Exciting action scenes featuring Yukio Amarida and Ken Tsuburai, expressed in 3DCG
- A lineup of 40 stages based on the school lunch menus that appeared in the work
・Control the famous Amarida sensei and enjoy a heated eating and running battle with Tsuburai Ken!
-Stages are randomly generated, with a variety of stages based on familiar school interiors and school routes from the series.
- The game balance has been adjusted so that even beginners can enjoy the game.
・Earn "School Lunch Ranks" as you clear stages. Ultimately, aim to become a "School Lunch Master"!
Relaxing Winter Trip in Japan: Enjoy Snow Scenery and Hot Springs
There are many famous hot spring resorts all over Japan, each with its own unique charm, such as a long history or beautiful scenery.
The biggest attraction of hot springs is that they soothe both body and mind in large baths.
But did you know that there are many different types of hot spring water? Depending on the ingredients in the hot spring, the effects it has on your body and skin can vary.
Here we will introduce some recommended types of hot springs and hot spring facilities, so please find the hot spring that suits you best.
Also, if you purchase your admission ticket before going to the hot spring facility, the procedure at the counter will be smoother. Admission tickets can be purchased at Lawson Ticket, so once you find the facility you want to go to, please check the ticket information.
Beginner-Friendly Hot springs for All Ages: Gentle& Skin-Friendly Onsen
*Image is for illustrative purposes only.
For first-time visitors, we recommend trying a “simple hot spring” type bath. These baths contain milder, less irritating minerals, making them gentle on the skin. They are safe for people with sensitive skin, as well as the elderly and young children. In addition to being easy on the skin, simple hot springs can help relieve muscle fatigue, such as stiff shoulders, improve circulation, and promote better sleep, providing gentle relief from travel-related tiredness.
Hyogo: HOTEL GREEN PLAZA TOJOKO YUPLAZA
Spring quality: alkaline simple hot spring, hypotonic alkaline low temperature hot spring
Japan Onsen for Beautiful Skin: Baths That Make Your Skin Soft and Smooth
*Image is for illustrative purposes only.
For those seeking smoother, healthier skin, alkaline hot springs are highly recommended. Often referred to as “beautiful skin baths,” these onsen gently remove excess sebum and dead skin cells while promoting skin metabolism. Their key feature is leaving the skin feeling soft and smooth after bathing, making them especially popular among women.
At most hot spring facilities, the mineral content of the water (spring quality list) is displayed in an easily visible location. Look for terms such as “bicarbonate spring,” “sulfur spring,” or “sulfate spring,” which indicate minerals known for their skin-beautifying properties. Bathing in these hot springs can help moisturize the skin and promote a smooth, translucent appearance.
Hanamaki City, Iwate: Hanamaki Shinzuna Onsen "Musubi-no-yado Airinkan"
Spring quality: Sodium sulfate spring, hypotonic, weak alkaline hot spring, sodium/calcium sulfate spring, hypotonic, neutral hot spring, etc.
Aizuwakamatsu, Fukushima: Shousuke no Yado Takinoyu (Higashiyama Onsen)
Spring quality: Calcium/sodium/sulfate chloride spring, weakly alkaline (ph8.64), hypotonic, high temperature spring
Notes: Day trip bathing ticket, day trip bathing ticket + Japanese meal, day trip bathing ticket + stone pot meal, day trip bathing ticket + Aizu beef meal.
*Tickets are sold at Lawson stores' Loppi machines (not available online).
Stay Warm This Winter: Hot Springs That Keep You Warm Inside and Out
*Image is for illustrative purposes only.
Among the various types of hot springs in Japan, chloride springs are the most popular, partly due to the country’s proximity to the sea. These springs contain natural salts, which make the water slightly buoyant and provide a relaxing bathing experience. In addition, the salts help reduce the evaporation of sweat, allowing the body to retain heat and stay warm for longer periods.
Iwaki City, Fukushima: Spa Resort Hawaiians
Spring quality: Sulfur-containing sodium chloride/sulfate hot spring (commonly known as sulfur spring)
Remarks: The large open-air bath is one of the largest in the world
While many visitors enjoy soaking in hot springs for extended periods, it’s important to avoid staying in the bath too long, as this can lead to overheating. During a typical soak, a person can lose more than 500 milliliters of fluid through sweat—equivalent to more than a standard plastic bottle. Bathing in hotter-than-usual water increases fluid loss even further, so it’s essential to drink plenty of water before entering the hot spring to stay properly hydrated.
Avoid entering the hot spring immediately upon arrival. Doing so is not only considered poor etiquette but can also be harmful to your health. Sudden immersion in hot water may cause a rapid increase in blood pressure, which in severe cases could lead to a stroke or heart attack. To prevent this, pour hot water over your body before entering the bath, starting with the areas farthest from your heart. This gradually warms your body and prepares it for a safe soak in the hot spring.
2. Enjoying Food and Drinks Alongside Your Bath: Onsen Gourmet
At many hot spring areas, you can not only bathe but also enjoy local foods and even drink the mineral-rich water. A famous example is Beppu Onsen in Oita, where the unique “Hell Steaming” (Jigoku-mushi) method uses the natural heat of the hot springs to cook food. This traditional technique has been practiced since the Edo period and remains a popular way to enjoy regional specialties.
Hot spring manju, a popular treat in many onsen towns, is traditionally made using hot spring water and the natural heat from the springs. While its exact origin is debated, it is believed to have started in Kusatsu Onsen (Gunma Prefecture). Other regional dishes that utilize hot spring water include steamed foods, yudofu (tofu simmered in hot water), and even ramen, showcasing the unique culinary culture of Japan’s hot spring towns.
Of course, you can drink the hot spring water as is, but this is only possible in places where permission is granted by law.
3. Understanding Hot Springs: What pH Tells You About Alkaline, Neutral, and Acidic Baths
Hot springs are classified based on their hydrogen ion concentration (pH) as follows: alkaline springs have a pH of 8.5 or higher, weakly alkaline springs have a pH of 7.5 to 8.4, neutral springs have a pH around 7, and acidic springs have a pH of 5 or lower. Simple hot springs with a pH of 8.5 or higher are specifically called “simple alkaline hot springs.
The quality of the springs varies, and when you bathe in an alkaline hot spring, your skin will feel smooth. This is caused by a chemical reaction between the alkali and sebum. The water has a bitter taste.
The "acidic" flavor makes your skin smooth. It has a bactericidal effect, and the chemical reaction causes old dead skin cells to peel off like scabs. It has a sour taste.
Soothing Hot Springs: The Perfect Winter Escape in Japan
There are many hot spring resorts all over Japan. There are many different styles of hot springs, such as staying overnight at an inn or hotel, or stopping off at a foot bath or day spa while out and about. We hope you will enjoy the various hot springs in Japan.
――――――――――
In addition, there are often various events and tourist spots near hot springs, so
When you go to a hot spring, we recommend that you look for nearby spots.
Lawson Ticket sells tickets for entertainment throughout Japan, including concerts, sporting events, anime and art events, musicals, classical music, movies, theme parks, and more.
The website is available in English, Chinese, and Korean, making reservations easy.
Tickets can be picked up 24 hours a day at Lawson stores in Japan.
Be sure to check out the website next time you visit Japan.
*If you are planning to visit any of the facilities listed, please be sure to check the opening hours, whether there are holidays, and any important points to note regarding bathing before visiting.
"CLIMACO" is an adaptation of the newspaper bag used for newspaper delivery in America in the 1900s.
It has a rough, oversized design reminiscent of the pockets of outer garments, and is made from a vintage-style recycled nylon (fluorine-free, C0 water-repellent) that has a subdued sheen, similar to that used in clothing.
This Japanese-made textile is made from plain woven taslan yarn, giving it a cotton-like feel. The shoulder strap has a double D-ring.
The adjustment section has a "shibori" design that makes use of the texture of the material to create a wrinkled look. It comes in two sizes, large and small, and has hidden zipper pockets on the front and back.
The bottom core can be raised, allowing it to accommodate small amounts of luggage when traveling and reducing space required for storage.
Shoulder M
Size: H24 x W36 x D13cm Price: ¥19,800
This mid-sized shoulder bag is perfect for everyday use. Its lightweight design emphasizes portability, and the main compartment has a zipper closure. There is also a small pocket on the front.
The interior can accommodate an 11-inch tablet device.
The outer side gusset pocket has a pocket that can hold a plastic bottle, etc., and a zipper pocket that can store a smartphone, etc.
Shoulder bag L Size: H32 x W48 x D16cm Price: ¥23,100
Casual style big size shoulder bag.
The opening is drawstring style and the cord is original.
When you don't have much luggage, you can lower the drawstring part to make the bag look neater.
It also comes with a snap hook, so you can use it without fastening the cord.
There are small pockets on the left and right sides of the front.
The interior has a pocket that can hold a 13-inch PC.
The side gusset pockets can hold plastic bottles and folding umbrellas, and you can also store cords.
Camper was founded in 1975 on the Spanish island of Mallorca, with a shoemaking tradition spanning more than 130 years. The brand name, which means "farmer" in Mallorcan, is a brand that cherishes the shoemaking traditions it has inherited, while also adding a playful and fun touch by drawing inspiration from the rustic environment, history and culture of the area surrounded by the Mediterranean Sea.
CAMPER, 3F, 3-37-1 Shinjuku , Shinjuku Ward , Tokyo 160-0022
0 minutes walk from the southeast exit of Shinjuku Station on the JR Higashi, 3 minutes walk from the south exit of the Odakyu line
Business hours: 11:00-21:00 Phone number: 03-3225-6084
All tourist spots in Kanazawa City are within walking distance.
Omicho Market is just a 1-minute walk away, making it a convenient base for sightseeing in Kanazawa.
We welcome you with colorful flowers and Kaga Temari art.
Kanazawa City does not have a subway, so the basic means of transportation is the bus.
You can get to each tourist spot from our hotel on foot or by bicycle using the "Machi Nori" service.
However, Kanazawa City is also one of the cities in Japan that has the most rainy days.
This time, we will introduce how to use the buses at a discount, the types of buses available within Kanazawa City, and other great deals!
Reference article here
Please see below for bus access from our hotel to tourist spots.
We hope you will make use of this as well.
Kanazawa City Bus Ride Guide
1. Wait at the bus stop. The destination and timetable are displayed at the bus stop.
Check the bus number and destination you want to take.
2. Kanazawa City buses have a style where you board through the rear door and exit through the front door.
There are also types where you take a numbered ticket when boarding.
3. The fare corresponding to the number on your ticket will be displayed on the fare display board at the front of the bus.
4. Press the button when you want to get off.
When you approach the bus stop where you want to get off, press the "get off button" inside the bus to let the driver know.
5. Get off at the front door and pay the fare. If paying by cash, place the money in the fare box.
If you have an IC card or credit card, please touch it to the card reader when boarding and exiting the bus.
Introducing the types of buses you can use to tour Kanazawa!
Buses are an essential means of sightseeing in Kanazawa City.
There are six types of tourist buses in Kanazawa City.
①Castle Town (clockwise route) Kanazawa Loop Bus
The bus departs from bus stop 7 at the east exit of Kanazawa Station, and goes around Hashibacho, Kenrokuen Garden, the 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art, Korinbo, and Omicho Market, passing through Kobashicho and Moriyama 1-chome.
Castle Town (clockwise route) Kanazawa Loop Bus
Nearest bus stop
There are two bus stops closest to the hotel on the clockwise route.
Musashi-ga-tsuji and Omicho Market (Kanazawa Omotesando Exit)
It is about a 10-minute walk to the hotel.
Musashi-ga-tsuji and Omicho Market (in front of Kanazawa M'za Kuromon Koji)
It is about a 3-minute walk to the hotel.
Other Information
Payment methods: Cash, credit cards with touch payment mark, debit cards, nationwide transportation IC cards (e.g. Suica) *Payment can also be made with a registered smartphone.
Operating hours: First bus departs at 8:30, last bus departs at 18:00
Note: ICa (Hokuriku Railroad IC card tickets) cannot be used. *Please note that this does not go to Nishi Chaya District, where the Ninja Temple is located.
②Castle Town (Counterclockwise Route) Kanazawa Loop Bus
The bus departs from bus stop 7 at the east exit of Kanazawa Station and goes around Omicho Market, Oyama Shrine, Korinbo, Katamachi, Hirokoji, Sakurabashi, Hondamachi, 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art, Kenrokuen Garden, and Hashibamachi.
Castle Town (Counterclockwise Route) Kanazawa Loop Bus
Nearest bus stop
There is one bus stop closest to the hotel on the left-hand route.
Musashi-ga-tsuji and Omicho Market (in front of Ichibakan)
It is about a 5-minute walk to the hotel.
Other Information
Payment methods: Cash, credit cards with touch payment mark, debit cards, nationwide transportation IC cards (e.g. Suica) *Payment can also be made with a registered smartphone.
Operating hours: First bus at 8:38, last bus at 17:58
Note: ICa (Hokuriku Railroad IC card tickets) cannot be used.
This bus is also used by Kanazawa residents to commute to work or school.
Hokuriku Railroad Group Route Bus
There are more services than the sightseeing bus, and you can get from Kanazawa Station to the main tourist spots for 210 yen.
It is also possible to access the suburban Kanazawa Port Cruise Terminal, the Ono and Kanaishi areas, Yuwaku Onsen, and other areas.
Nearest bus stop
There are two bus stops closest to our hotel on the Hokuriku Railroad Group bus route.
Musashi-ga-tsuji and Omicho Market (in front of Ichibakan)
It is about a 5-minute walk to the hotel.
If you are boarding from Kanazawa Station, please get off at the "Ichibakan-mae" bus stop.
Musashi-ga-tsuji and Omicho Market (in front of Kanazawa M'za Kuromon Koji)
It is about a 3-minute walk to the hotel.
If you are boarding from Nonoichi or Korinbo, please get off at the bus stop "Kanazawa Mza Kuromon Koji Mae."
Other Information
Payment methods: Cash, credit cards with touch payment mark, debit cards, ICa (Hokuriku Railway IC card ticket)
*Payment can also be made using a smartphone with a registered card.
*National transportation IC cards (e.g. Suica) cannot be used.
*Please be careful in the evenings and early morning hours between 7am and 9am as these are busy rush hours for local residents commuting to work, school, and home.
The Furatto Bus is a convenient way to casually explore downtown Kanazawa, which still retains its narrow, winding streets and slopes that were built during the feudal era.
This bus is essential for the daily lives of Kanazawa residents, whether for shopping or going to the hospital.
Kanazawa Flat Bus Route Map
There are four routes: Konohana Route, Kikugawa Route, Zaimoku Route, and Nagamachi Route.
◇Konohana Route
The bus departs from platform 1 at the east exit of Kanazawa Station, passes through Asano Honmachi, and returns to its starting point, Kanazawa Station.
It's a blue line on the map.
*Please note that the Furatto Bus heading to Kanazawa Station only runs on this Konohana route.
◇ Kikugawa Route
Depart from in front of Korinbo Yamato Atrio.
The tour will return to the starting point in front of Yamato Atrio via Shintatemachi and Kanazawa University Hospital.
It's a red line on the map.
◇Lumber route
The tour departs from Musashi-ga-tsuji/Omicho Market, passes along the Asano River, passes through Kenrokuen Garden, and returns to the starting point, Musashi-ga-tsuji/Omicho Market.
It's a green line on the map.
◇Nagamachi Route
The tour departs from Musashi-ga-tsuji/Omicho Market, passes through Nishi Chaya District, and returns to the starting point, Musashi-ga-tsuji/Omicho Market.
It's an orange line on the map.
Other Information
Payment method: Cash only. *National transportation IC cards can be used only on the Zaimoku and Nagamachi routes.
Fare: 100 yen for adults, 50 yen for children (elementary school students)
Note: Recommended for customers who want to take their time to explore the tourist spots.
⑥ Kanazawa Shopping Bus (only operates on weekends and holidays)
The bus departs from bus stop 7 at the east exit of Kanazawa Station and passes through Omicho Market, Oyama Shrine, Korinbo, Katamachi, Tatemachi, Hondamachi, and the 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art.
Kanazawa Shopping Bus
Nearest bus stop
There are two bus stops closest to our hotel on the Kanazawa Shopping Bus.
Musashi-ga-tsuji and Omicho Market (in front of Ichibakan)
Musashi-ga-tsuji and Omicho Market (in front of Kanazawa M'za Kuromon Koji)
Other Information
Payment methods: Cash, credit cards with touch payment mark, debit cards, ICa (Hokuriku Railway IC card ticket)
Operating hours: Saturdays, Sundays, holidays, New Year's holidays, and Obon period: Operates every 20 minutes from 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM
Payment methods: Cash, credit cards with the touch payment mark, debit cards, nationwide transport IC cards, ICa (Hokuriku Railroad Group IC card)
Note: Kanazawa Light-up Bus Free Pass can be used (Kanazawa City 1-Day Free Pass cannot be used)
*Tickets are not sold on the bus, so advance purchase is required.
*Also available for purchase at the Kanazawa Station Tourist Information Center and the Kanazawa Chuo Tourist Information Center.
Kanazawa City 1-Day Free Pass
Kanazawa City 1-Day Free Pass
Buses within Kanazawa City usually cost 210 yen per section.
Payment can be made not only with cash, but also with credit cards and nationwide transportation IC cards.
However, if you plan to use the bus multiple times for sightseeing, the Kanazawa City 1-Day Free Pass is by far the best deal.
This ticket is
・Adults: 800 yen・Elementary school students and younger: 400 yen
It is sold at and allows unlimited bus rides in one day.
For example, if you take the bus four times at the regular fare, the total cost will be 840 yen.
In other words, if you plan to ride the train four or more times, this ticket is a better deal.
This ticket can be used on the six types of buses introduced above, making it the perfect ticket for those who want to travel around tourist spots efficiently.
One-day passes are also available for purchase at the front desk of our hotel, so please feel free to purchase one.
Tickets can also be purchased at the ticket center at Kanazawa Station and the bus center inside Kanazawa M'za.
summary
This time, we introduced the types of buses that are essential for sightseeing in Kanazawa and how to use them.
Take advantage of sightseeing buses and free passes during the day, and ride the illuminated bus at night to enjoy the fantastical cityscape of Kanazawa.
In the morning, we went to three sunken bridges and took a sightseeing boat ride along the Shimanto River!
Departs Nakamura Station at 7:50 and arrives Ekawasaki Station at 10:40
*Trains bound for Kochi, Osaka, and Matsuyama depart from Ekawasaki Station.
Tour B course 1,000 yen/person
Stop for lunch and visit two sunken bridges along the way!
Departs Ekawasaki Station at 11:00 and arrives Nakamura Station at 15:00
Plenty of AB course 1,600 yen/person
Take the A&B course to visit four submerged bridges and have lunch. Enjoy the Shimanto River to the fullest!
Departs Nakamura Station at 7:50 and arrives Nakamura Station at 15:00
Stopover C Course
Get off at Kawarakko and enjoy a canoeing experience, then hop back on the bus and head back to the station!
Departs Nakamura Station at 7:50 and arrives Nakamura Station at 15:00
Shimanto River Bus Tour Map
Shimanto River Bus Route
Shimanto River Bus Stopover Spots
AB JR Ekawasaki Station
The pop art designed by Gravityfree, based on the motif of "The Tosa Amano River of Nishitosa, the Town of Shimanto River and Starry Skies," is painted on the walls and ceiling of the waiting room inside the station. It's sure to look great in photos!
AB Roadside Station Tosa
Tosa Roadside Station is home to fresh local vegetables and local specialties. You can also enjoy grilled sweetfish and sweets made with local ingredients.
AB Iwama Submerged Bridge
This submerged bridge often appears on posters and television. There is also a monument to the song of singer Hiroshi Miyama in the nearby parking lot. The view from the nearby Iwama Shimanto Teahouse is also recommended! You can park your car in the parking lot and take your time sightseeing.
Just down from the campsite, you can see the gentle flow of the Shimanto River, where even beginners can enjoy a casual canoeing experience. We have approximately 100 canoes and SUP boats available for activities. This is an auto campsite where you can fully enjoy the Shimanto River.
If you get off on Course C, you can enjoy canoeing and SUP at Kawarakko (additional charge).
Those taking Course A and Course AB will have approximately one hour to stroll around here.
You can take a sightseeing boat or go for a walk along the riverbank!
A Shimanto River Sightseeing Boat Nattoku *Boarding time varies, additional charges apply
Deep green mountains and a beautiful, clear blue river. There's nothing else like it. That's why it's called the Shimanto River.
Everyone who visits will be impressed.
A Takase Submerged Bridge
This is a valuable livelihood route for local residents. If you're lucky, you might be able to see a houseboat passing under the bridge.
The fireflies in early summer are a sight to behold.
BC Sada Submerged Bridge
Located at the lowest point of the Shimanto River, this is the longest submerged bridge and the most famous of the many submerged bridges.
At Hotori Coffee, located at the foot of the sunken bridge, you can enjoy a delicious cup of coffee while being surrounded by the sound of the gently flowing river and the beautiful scenery.
BC Dragonfly Nature Park Shimanto River Academic and Play Center Akitsuio
Shimanto River Academic Museum Akitsuio is comprised of a dragonfly museum and a fish museum located within Dragonfly Nature Park, the world's first dragonfly nature reserve. It is a museum where you can have fun and see dragonfly and insect specimens from around the world, as well as exhibits of creatures that live in the Shimanto River.
Nakamura Station
Nakamura Station is the gateway to Shimanto City. The station building was renovated in 2013 and has become a place of relaxation for not only tourists but also local residents.
Nakamura Station Coffee has also opened inside Nakamura Station, and although it is a station kiosk, you can use the waiting room as if it were a cafe.
The Shimanto City Tourism Association, which is full of tourist information about Shimanto City , is located nearby.
When you arrive in Hokkaido, head to Sapporo first.
The first day in Sapporo is a must-see tourist spot
On your first day in Sapporo, Hokkaido's vibrant capital, enjoy a leisurely stroll through Odori Park on a sunny day and a self-guided tour of the Sapporo Beer Museum, Japan's premier beer museum.
New Chitose Airport Station → Sapporo Station Travel time: Approximately 40 minutes
[place_master_id=2019 DescriptionChange="{ Admission fee: 1,000 yen 14 minutes walk from Sapporo Station }" show_photos embed id="EZIMH4KqZH"]
Admission fee: 1,000 yen (purchasable on the 3rd floor of the tower)
▶︎14-minute walk from Sapporo Station
▶Sapporo TV Tower, located at the eastern end of Odori Park, is a symbol of Sapporo. The 147.2-meter-tall tower has an observation deck, from which you can see the vast Odori Park, the Sapporo cityscape, and even the Ishikari Plain in the distance during the day. At night, the tower is lit up, creating a fantastical view that is completely different from the daytime.
▶︎There are many restaurants around the building, including izakayas, soba restaurants, ramen shops, and coffee shops, making it a convenient place to stop for a meal between sightseeing. It's a classic spot to stop by at the start or end of your Sapporo sightseeing trip.
You can enjoy the exhibits on a guided tour that will help you learn about the history and legacy of Sapporo Beer. The tour is conducted in Japanese, but audio guides are available in English and Korean. You can also enjoy a tasting of Sapporo Beer at the end of the tour.
Duration: 50 minutes
Time: First session starts at 11:30
ClosedMonday
Admission fee: 1,000 yen for adults, 500 yen for junior high school students and under 20 years old, free for elementary school students and younger
(Includes two tastings or two soft drinks)
Reservations: Required
Black Label THE PERFECT TOUR
This is a guided tour where you can experience the history of Sapporo Black Label draft beer. In addition to learning about the historical story of Sapporo Beer, you will also learn about the attention to detail that goes into making Black Label delicious. At the end of the tour, you will be able to enjoy a tasting.
Duration: 70 minutes
Date: Once a weekday per month
Participation fee: 2,500 yen for adults
Reservations: Required
Free museum tour
Duration: 15-20 minutes
Opening hours: 11:00-18:00 (last entry 17:30)
Admission fee: Free
Reservations: Not required
Star Hall (fee required for tasting) 11:00-18:30 (last order 18:00)
On your second day in Sapporo, learn about Japanese food culture
On the second day in Sapporo, we participated in a Japanese food experience tour supervised by TripToJapan. We experienced making tempura and soba noodles, and enjoyed them with sake, which goes perfectly with Japanese food.
In the Toyako area, you can enjoy relaxing hot springs and evening walks along the lakeside.
Take the Usuzan Ropeway up Mount Usu to see the active volcano's crater. Guests can also play in the snow by the lake or relax in the hotel's hot springs and spa facilities.
This tour offers an immersive gourmet experience at a HOKKAIDian Homestead, where you can savor seasonal Hokkaido meat, seafood, and produce while interacting with your local host.
Discover the culinary secrets of Hokkaido by cooking and enjoying local specialties made with fresh, seasonal ingredients at a HOKKAIDian Homestead in Hokkaido. Surrounded by the breathtaking scenery of Lake Toya, this tour offers a unique blend of cooking, learning, and nature, making it the perfect way to create a wonderful and memorable experience.
If you're traveling with small children, we have a special experience for you! Homestead offers a special menu for children and fun, hands-on activities that they will enjoy. This experience is not only about enjoying delicious food, but also about creating fun memories in a beautiful environment!
What's included in the price
- Ingredients needed for every cooking session
・Professional guidance from the host
Access to outdoor exploration
All cooking equipment and utensils
・Seafood and main dish
Drinks during meals
Day 6
Finally, we returned to Sapporo to conclude our trip.
The urban culture of Sapporo, the nostalgic streets of Otaru, and the magnificent nature and hot springs of Lake Toya. This 11-day self-travel is a luxurious trip that allows you to enjoy the diverse charms of Hokkaido at your own pace. By using a plan supervised by TripToJapan, you can enjoy a free and secure trip without worrying about transportation or accommodation.
Why not experience Hokkaido to your heart's content, a place where cities and nature, history and modernity intertwine? If you're planning a trip to Hokkaido, be sure to contact TripToJapan.com!
Recommended autumn foliage spots in Matsusaka City , Mie Prefecture
Matsusaka City , located in the Chuo of Mie Prefecture , adjacent to Kyoto Prefecture and Nara Prefecture , has many stunningly beautiful spots to see autumn leaves!
This time, we will introduce three carefully selected autumn foliage spots that are within walking distance from Matsusaka Station.
①Matsusaka Castle Ruins
The ruins of Matsusaka Castle are the site of Matsusaka Castle, which was built by Lord Gamou Ujisato in 1588, and are now a symbol of Matsusaka , with their magnificent Ishigaki remaining.
In spring, the area is bustling with people who come to see the cherry blossoms, but in autumn, the highlight is the ginkgo and maple leaves that beautifully decorate the Ishigaki.
The best time to see the autumn leaves varies depending on the tree, so you can enjoy them for a long period of time.
Best time to see: Mid-November to mid-December
[Address] Mie Prefecture, Matsusaka City, Mie Prefecture
[Access] 15 minutes walk from JR/Kintetsu Matsusaka Station
2) Former Hasegawa Jirobei House
The former Hasegawa Jirobei House, designated as an Important Cultural Property (building) of Japan, was the residence of the Hasegawa family, one of Matsusaka 's leading wealthy merchants who ran the cotton wholesaler " Tamba ."
In addition to its stately structure and high-quality construction using fine materials, the building also features a stroll-style garden centered around a pond. In autumn, the maple leaves in this garden change color, creating a truly spectacular sight.
Every year, the temple is lit up at night, so be sure to enjoy its different appearance from the daytime.
In 2025, the illuminations will take place from December 5th (Mon) to December 7th (Sun).
●Hasegawa Family Autumn Leaves Night Walk
[Location] Former Hasegawa Jirobei House
[Period] December 5, 2020 - December 7, 2020
[Hours] Open until 7:30pm (entry until 7pm) *Opening hours will be extended during certain periods only.
[Admission fee] Adults: 400 yen
Best time to see: late November to mid-December
[Address] 1653 Mie Prefecture, Matsusaka City, Mie Prefecture
[Access] 10 minutes walk from JR/Kintetsu Matsusaka Station
Mirokuin Zenpukuji Temple is located a five-minute walk from Matsusaka Station. It is said that the foundations of the temple were first laid by Gyoki, a famous monk from the Nara period, and that it was rebuilt by Sozu Kinso in 773. Later, when Lord Gamo Ujisato opened Matsusaka Castle and developed the castle town, it was moved to its current location.
There are several temples within the grounds, and the "Shikoku 88 Temple Sand-Stepping Pilgrimage Site" is also located here. It is said that by stepping on the sand of the Shikoku 88 Temple Sand-Stepping Site, you will receive the same benefits as if you had visited all 88 temples.
The temple also enshrines Buddhas such as Mizukake Fudo Myo-o, who is said to pour water on you when you make a wish, and Kikimimi Jizo, who will quietly listen to your wishes. This is a temple where you can spend some quiet time strolling around.
At Mirokuin Zenpukuji Temple, the maple leaves turn vibrant colors in autumn.
This is a hidden gem of a spot to view autumn leaves that is within walking distance from Matsusaka Station, so be sure to visit.
Best time to see: late November to early December
[Address] 701 Hino Town , Matsusaka Matsusaka City
[Access] 5 minutes walk from JR/Kintetsu Matsusaka Station
If you're traveling in the Tohoku region, we recommend stopping by areas where you can enjoy local cuisine and sweets beloved by locals. Naruko Onsen, located in the northwest of Miyagi Prefecture, is famous as a hot spring spot where you can enjoy traditional local cuisine.
This time, we will introduce Naruko's local cuisine, sweets made with local specialties, and notable local sake for those planning a gourmet trip in Tohoku. Please use this as a reference when touring the Naruko Onsen area.
The charm of Naruko Onsen is that you can enjoy local gourmet food that has been loved by locals for a long time. In this article, we will introduce the following three particularly popular gourmet foods.
● Chestnut dumplings | A classic dish you should try at least once at Naruko Onsen
● Shiso rolls | Convenient as a side dish or teatime snack
● Oni Soba｜Famous soba noodles made with the Shimizu of Onikobe Onsen
All of these are local dishes that you should try at least once if you visit Naruko Onsen.
Chestnut dumplings | A classic dish you'll want to try at least once at Naruko Onsen
Chestnut dumplings are a staple delicacy at Naruko Onsen. They are made from rice cakes wrapped around whole chestnuts and topped with a sweet and spicy mitarashi bean paste, resulting in a refined and simple taste.
Chestnut dumplings were invented by Yoshimaru Fukase, the first owner of Mochidokoro Fukase, towards the end of the Meiji period. Today, they are a staple dish that can be purchased at Mochidokoro Fukase and other souvenir shops around town.
◆Basic information about Mochidokoro Fukase◆
Address: 24-2 Yumoto, Naruko Onsen , Osaki City
Business hours: 9:00-17:00
Closed: New Year's Day and irregular holidays
Shiso rolls | Convenient as a side dish or teatime snack
Shiso rolls have also long been a popular local delicacy in Naruko Onsen. One theory is that they originated when Date Masamune had them made to entertain people visiting the hot springs.
The basic shiso roll is a side dish made by wrapping Sendai miso in shiso leaves and deep frying it. Shiso rolls have changed over time, and can be enjoyed in a variety of flavors, such as being sweetened as a snack or mixed with chili peppers to serve as a side dish with alcohol.
Oni Soba | Famous soba noodles made with the Shimizu of Onikobe Onsen
Oni soba is a local specialty made from buckwheat grown in the Onikobe area. One of the restaurants where you can eat oni soba in Onikobe is Okusa Shoten.
At Okuya Shoten, you can enjoy Oni Soba made with mountain produce, such as Boar Oni Soba, Bear Oni Soba, and Mushroom Oni Soba. In addition to Oni Soba, you can also enjoy local mountain vegetables and river fish, making it a popular restaurant where you can enjoy the flavors of the four seasons.
At the mountain produce direct sales store attached to the store, you can purchase rare mushrooms, wild vegetables, bottled goods, and other products.
◆Basic information about Okusa Shoten◆
Address: 18-1 Todoroki, Onikobe, Naruko Onsen , Osaki City
Closed: Open daily (irregular holidays)
Exquisite sweets inspired by Naruko Onsen's specialties
In this chapter, we will introduce a carefully selected selection of sweets inspired by local specialties.
● Blueberries | A local fruit that can be enjoyed in a variety of ways
● Kokeshi Monaka | A modern sweet inspired by tradition
Both are sweets unique to Naruko. If you're looking for an after-meal dessert or a memorable memory of your trip, be sure to check this out.
Blueberries | A local fruit that can be enjoyed in a variety of ways
Osaki City , Miyagi Prefecture , where Naruko Onsen is located, is a region where blueberry cultivation is thriving. The blueberries at Naruko Onsen are certified by the prefecture as being grown without the use of pesticides or chemical fertilizers.
Some blueberry farms offer picking experiences and all-you-can-eat plans, allowing you to enjoy the seasonal flavors while sightseeing. Local farms and souvenir shops also stock a wide selection of blueberry-based products, such as jam, juice, and liqueur, which make great keepsakes for your trip.
Kokeshi Monaka | A modern sweet inspired by tradition
Kokeshi Monaka is an experiential sweet offered by Cafe Gutto, a popular and stylish local cafe.
You can enjoy painting a kokeshi-shaped mochi in the eat-in space inside the store. You can also fill the mochi with fillings such as bean paste, chestnuts, or ice cream.
Kokeshi Monaka is a recommended sweet for those who want to have a unique experience while traveling. Reservations are not required for the painting experience.
◆Cafe gutto basic information◆
Address: 27-2-2 Yumoto, Naruko Onsen , Osaki City
Business hours: 11:30-18:00 *Last orders 17:30
Closed: Fridays
Doburoku, a locally brewed sparkling sake born from the natural beauty of Naruko Onsen
Naruko Onsen is also a thriving area for local sake production, using locally grown rice and high-quality hot spring water and melted snow. Naruko no Kaze, a low-malt sake made with the famous water from Onikobe, comes in three flavors:
● Takaharu Lager...A taste that stands out with its bitter and rich malt flavor
● Wild Grape (Ale)...Mellow and gentle taste thanks to the use of wild grapes
● Yukimusubi (Ale)...Made with local Yukimusubi rice, it has a sparkling taste similar to champagne.
At Naruko Onsen, you can also enjoy "doburoku," a flavor unique to mountain villages. "Oni no Doburoku Yukimusubi," made with Onikobe-produced yukimusubi and local meltwater, is characterized by its smooth, easy-to-drink taste.
It can be enjoyed as a moon-viewing sake or snow-viewing sake, and would also make a great souvenir for those who enjoy local sake.
If you're touring the Tohoku region, we recommend Hotel WAMARE Onikobe.
For a gourmet trip in the Tohoku region, it's convenient to base yourself at Hotel WAMARE Onikobe, which also offers long-term stays. As it is an inn where you can rent the entire building, you can spend your time relaxing and enjoying your time.
One of the accommodation plans at Hotel WAMARE Onikobe is a plan that includes dinner at Bettei En. This attractive plan allows you to enjoy a colorful Japanese meal called the "Hakozen Course" made with local ingredients.
If you are traveling to Tohoku , be sure to stop by Hotel WAMARE Onikobe.
◆Basic information about Hotel WAMARE Onikobe◆
Address: 9-38 Mukaibara Onikobe, Naruko Onsen , Osaki City
In addition to limousine buses to Kansai International Airport and Itami Airport, the OCAT bus terminal also serves intercity express buses from Sendai in the north to Kumamoto in the south, and the ticket purchasing process is surprisingly complicated.
Just when you're excited to enjoy a bus trip by hopping on a limousine bus or intercity express bus, you'll be faced with a hurdle: how to purchase a ticket at the OCAT bus terminal. With so many routes and bus companies operating in the area, the process can be surprisingly complicated.
This time, we will introduce how to purchase tickets at the OCAT Bus Terminal based on the latest information as of 2025.
*Please see this article for directions to the OCAT bus terminal.
The Higashizawa Bridge : Kiyosato's Iconic "Red Bridge" Set Against the Brocade Autumn Foliage of the Yatsugatake Mountains.
The Higashizawa Bridge,
affectionately known as the "Red Bridge," is a 90-meter long
vermilion arch bridge located in Kiyosato.
During the autumn foliage season, the
surrounding area transforms into a spectacular landscape covered in rich autumn colors. With the magnificent Yatsugatake Mountains in the background, the
bright red bridge creates a beautiful contrast with the deep canyon gorge
painted in the vibrant reds of maples and yellows of Japanese larches.
The view from the observatory on the east
side of the bridge (Kiyosato Station side) is particularly exceptional.
The best time to see the autumn colors is usually from mid-October
to early November.
(Note)The
bridge is undergoing repair work from September 11, 2025, to August 31, 2026.
Half of the bridge is covered with sheeting, affecting the view.
The Ojiragawa Valley : The
Contrast of Emerald Stream and Autumn Colors
The Ojiragawa Valley, sourced from the Minami Alps, is a valley selected as one of Japan's 100 Exquisite and Well-Conserved Waters
At Senga-fuchi, which is about a
15-minute walk from the parking lot, the emerald green clear stream creates a
stunning contrast with the red and yellow autumn leaves of beech and maple
trees. This harmonious collaboration between the pure water and the autumnal
colors is truly magical.
For those interested in serious trekking, the trail continues deeper into the valley, where you can visit several waterfalls.
The best time to see the autumn colors near Sengafuchi is usually from early to late November.
Note: Beyond Senga-fuchi, the trail is a
narrow and potentially dangerous mountain path. Please ensure you have proper
hiking boots and gear before proceeding. Those with limited hiking experience
or confidence in their physical fitness should refrain from continuing.
(Note) The forest road beyond Sengafuchi is closed during the winter (early December to late April).
Yatsugatake Kogen Great Bridge : Autumn Leaves Adorning the Valley Against the Backdrop of Yatsugatake Mountains
The Yatsugatake Kogen Great Bridge, often
called the "Yellow Bridge" in contrast to the "Red Bridge",
is 100 meters high and 490 meters long. The bridge features a pedestrian
walkway, offering panoramic views of the Yatsugatake Mountains to the north,
the Minami Alps to the southwest, and Mt. Fuji to the south.
During the autumn season, you can enjoy a
magnificent view of the colorful foliage decorating the valley stream, with the
Yatsugatake Mountains in the background.
The best time to see the autumn colors is usually from late October to early November.
Mt. Mizugaki Nature Park : A Spectacular Combination of Golden Larch and Vivid Maple
Mt. Mizugaki Nature Park is a rich, natural
park located at the foot of Mt. Mizugaki, one of the 100 Famous Mountains of
Japan.
In the autumn foliage season, visitors can
enjoy a breathtaking view where the golden yellow of the Japanese larches and
the crimson red of the maple trees interweave, set against the powerful, rocky
peaks of Mt. Mizugaki.
The best time to see the autumn colors is usually from mid-October
to early November.
(Note) The
forest road is closed during the winter (late November to late April).
Hontanigawa Valley : Autumn Colors Painting the Pure Waters selected as Japan's 100 Best Waters
The Hontanigawa Valley is a valley along the
Hontani River, which originates from Mt. Kinpu. It is a beautiful valley known for
its clear stream, selected as one of the "100 Exquisite Waters of the
Heisei Era."
In autumn, trees such as Japanese larches
and maples are vividly colored, and the clear stream itself appears dyed with
the reflection of the autumn leaves.
Please enjoy this quiet and beautiful Japanese autumn spectacle, created by the interplay of pristine water and
vibrant fall colors.
The best time to see the autumn colors is usually from late
October to early November.
(Note) Some Sections
of the forest road are closed during the winter (late November to late April)
Shingen Bomichi : A golden corridor with a history
The Shingen Bomichi (Shingen's Straight Road)
is a military road built by the warlord Shingen Takeda (1521 - 1573). It is
called a Bo (pole) road because it stretches straight like a pole.
It has been developed as a nature trail and has been selected as one of the "500 Beautiful Walking Paths in Japan ."
As autumn deepens, the ancient path transforms into a corridor of shining golden larch trees. Along the way, a moss-covered stone Buddha statue that has been watching over the walking path since the Edo period (1603-1868) stands quietly, admiring the beauty of the Nishiki colors.
Enjoy the charming autumn roads while reminiscing about the romance of the past.
The best time to see the autumn colors is usually from late October to early November.
Fujimidaira : Panorama of shining larch trees and Mt. Fuji
Fujimi-daira, literally "Mt. Fuji View
Plateau", as its name suggests, is a prime location where you can view
Mt. Fuji directly without obstruction.
During the autumn foliage season, the surrounding larch trees turn golden yellow, creating a stunning contrast with the magnificent Mt. Fuji .
You are sure to be captivated by the crisp
air and the grand, sweeping view.
The best time to see the autumn colors is usually from mid-October to early November.
(Note) The forest road is closed during the winter (late November to late April).
As you tour the colorful city, you can also see Mt. Fuji shining against the autumn sky.
The autumn leaves season brings vibrant colors to the mountains. Why not take a short trip from the Tokyo metropolitan area or Mt. Fuji to enjoy some hidden gems for viewing the autumn leaves?
Mikasa City, located in central Hokkaido, is an hour drive away from Sapporo. From Shin-Chitose Airport, the drive takes an hour and a half. The city, which can be used as a hub for sightseeing in the area, is easy to access, and perfect as a day trip destination. Mikasa has a history of hosting a Bon odori event, accompanied by live music.
Bon odori derives from a Buddhist ritual to send off the spirit of our ancestors. It has become a summertime attraction, and a place for community interaction, as well. The unique development of Mikasa Hokkai Bon Odori was also influenced by the folk culture of coal miners.
It is held at Mikasa Chuo Park. Visitors from out of town, along with the locals, annually gather at the event to join the circle of traditional dancing accompanied by live music.
This article is about the highlights of Mikasa Hokkai Bon Odori, and the appeals of the host city.
History, Highlights, and Event Period
Mikasa City is known as the birthplace of Hokkai Bon-uta, a Japanese folk song. The history of the local coal mine is related to the song.
For 110 years from 1879 to 1989, Mikasa prospered as a coal town. People gathered from all over Japan to work at the mine. Betcho-bushi, a folk song sung at the annual Bon odori, supported the hard work of the miners.
After WWII, Kozan Imai, known as the godfather of Hokkaido folk songs, arranged the music and lyrics of Betcho-bushi and released a song titled Hokkai Tanko-bushi. It was later recorded as Hokkai Bon-uta, which became famous all over Japan, and Mikasa was widely acknowledged as its place of origin.
The current event is held over 3 days, from August 13th to 15th. Various events, such as a coal-carrying race, summer fireworks display, and a romantic lantern procession are scheduled, along with the traditional Bon odori.
The yagura, a three layered structure, is about 8 meters in height, with the singers and musicians performing from the top floor. There is a rental yukata service at Mikasa Civic Hall, located next to the park. As of August 2025, the charge is 1,500 yen. Those who have just happened to drop by will still be able to enjoy the atmosphere.
Join the Locals and Dance
During the daytime, unique events such as a coal-carrying race, imitation show, and an idol performance will be held. The music for the Bon odori starts around 17:00.
The three-layered, 8-meter-tall yagura will be decorated with lanterns, creating a dreamy scene at sunset. The Hokkai Bon-uta singer, along with musicians playing the Japanese flute and drum, will be providing the music with powerful song and rhythm resonating continuously throughout the venue.
While some people may be overwhelmed by the atmosphere, join the circle of locals who are dancing happily with smiles, and you'll find yourself moving along to their movements.
The singer's strong voice, accentuated by the drum, and the merry air created by the locals, will make a wonderful memory.
There are various Bon odori programs, such as the adorable children's Bon odori, the incredibly popular children's costume Bon odori, and Mikasa Hokkai Bon Odori, which is for people of all ages. Participants can take a break between dances or join a program they prefer, enjoying the event at their own pace.
Food Stalls
Mikasa Chuo Park will be divided into west and east areas, with the yagura located at the former, and food stalls at the latter. There will be about 50 booths, providing fragrant and colorful looking dishes to brighten the festive summer night.
Along with staple dishes such as yakisoba, cotton candy, and churros, popular local eateries, including Mikasa Wine, will also be present.
While the wine can be purchased at Roadside Station Mikasa and liquor shops, they will be specially on sale at the event. The grapes are cultivated from the hilly area of Mikasa, nurtured by the region's coal-mining history and soil that contains ammonite fossils from tens of millions year ago.
On the day of the event, wine samplings will be available before purchase.
The following is a list of popular local eateries that will have food stalls at the event. It'd also be fun to visit their physical stores after the event.
2 Beans Coffee: A Mobile Coffee Stand
2 Beans Coffee, established in 2019 and based in Mikasa City, is a food truck serving freshly brewed coffee.
The most popular menu at the event is the Mikasa latte, made in the image of a coal mine. The black and white drink is quite picturesque. It is stylish, and perfect for those who want to taste something delicious during the trip.
Rire-Sourire, a specialty store handling financier, is an affiliated eatery located in Mikasa. They serve confections which are ideal as souvenirs, made from Hokkaido products.
[place_master_id=17140 show_photos embed]
[place_master_id=17141 show_photos embed]
Namae ga Nai Pan-ya: Popular With the Kids!
Namae ga Nai Pan-ya (A Bakery with No Name) started as a store where children can buy bread with their allowance. All products, with the exception of sandwich bread, cost no more than 200 yen.
Fried bread, Kouign-amann, along with seasonal vegetable buns filled with zunda or pumpkin paste, are the popular products. This is a bakery for people of all ages.
The breads are freshly baked with Hokkaido wheat. Be sure to check them as a snack, or a souvenir.
[place_master_id=17142 show_photos embed]
Omusubi Kororin: A Specialty Shop Using Local Rice
Omusubi Kororin, which opened in 2025, is a specialty store offering onigiri (omusubi) made with Mikasa rice.
They serve periodic menus such as autumn salmon and butter omusubi, or seaweed rice and salted mackerel omusubi, along with seasonal miso soups, which can be purchased as a set menu.
This local cuisine is ideal for a snack or breakfast. Omusubi Kororin runs as a food truck with its location and business hours posted on their Instagram account.
[place_master_id=17143 show_photos embed]
Amaimono Club: Freshly Prepared Homemade Treats
Amaimono Club, which opened in 2021, is managed by the patissier Sota Tanaka. The colorful, cute meringue cookies, which have a soft, melting texture, are popular items sold at the event.
Their physical store also offers kamayaki pudding, made with Hokkaido products, and financier, which is perfect for a souvenir. In the daytime, Amaimono Club serves snacks, coffee and tea, while serving liquor and light meals at night.
[place_master_id=17165 show_photos embed]
Visit Ichikishiri Shrine Before the Festivities
From Mikasa Chuo park, it is a 15 minute walk to Ichikishiri Shrine. Ichikishiri is the former place name for Mikasa.
In the Meiji Period, it started from a small shrine in the pioneer days of Hokkaido, and developed as the guardian deity of the area. The main building and the torii gate stand out against the backdrop of lush trees and flowers.
A sacred forest, a place to welcome the deities, stands behind the shrine. It is famous as a forest where owls raise their chicks, so if the time is right, visitors may be able to enjoy birdwatching.
Before the worship, be sure to follow the procedure mentioned below, at the chozu-ya.
1. Use the water ladle with your right hand and wash your left hand.
2. Wash your right hand with the ladle in the left.
3. Use the ladle with your right hand again, pour some water into your left hand, and rinse your mouth.
4. Wash your left hand one more time and cleanse the ladle handle.
During certain seasons, flowers may be floating on the water basin, which is a sight to behold.
Two bows, two claps, and one bow is the formal way to worship. The procedure consists of two deep bows, two loud hand claps in front of the chest, a prayer with eyes closed, and another deep bow at the end.
A visit to the shrine will surely cleanse and calm one's mind. Don't forget to drop by before joining the Bon odori.
Mikasa City Museum: Experience a World from 100 Million Years Ago
The Mikasa City Museum, which boasts one of the largest ammonite collections in Japan, is a must-visit spot for those visiting on a day trip. There are about 3,000 materials, including exhibitions regarding the city's history, approximately 600 ammonite samples, and a fossil of Ezo Mikasa-ryu (an ancient reptile), which is designated by the Japanese government as a natural monument.
Mikasa City is certified by the Japanese Geoparks Network. The city is well-known as the spot to experience a 100 million years of time in strata, from the Cretaceous Period (about 100 million years ago) to the modern, coal-mining days.
Stratum is crucial to any discussion of Mikasa. The ammonites, which used to swim in the sea, can be found from the 100 million years old stratum, and coal was mined from the 50 million years old stratum.
Step outside the museum and visitors can see actual strata, along with the former Ponbetsu Coal Mine. They can also experience a time trip to 100 million years ago. Please note that some areas are restricted to the public.
The Bon odori is the legacy of the coal miners, who danced during their short vacation. With the knowledge of the strata from the museum, visitors joining the dance will be able to experience Mikasa's culture even more deeply.
Enjoy the Japanese Summer in Mikasa
A trip to Mikasa offers a history tour of coal mining spanning 110 years, ammonites from 100 million years ago, and unique local cuisines. At the end, visitors can join the Mikasa Hokkai Bon Odori, and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere with the locals that will bring you smiles.
Mikasa, only an hour drive away from Sapporo, can be accessed easily. Take a summer trip to the city this year to enjoy the regional dishes and a Bon odori event accompanied by live music. It will liven both the mind and body.
Avoid traffic jams by taking the train! Enjoy the autumn leaves of Mount Yoshino in Nara
Nara is a popular area during the autumn foliage season. Mount Yoshino, famous for its cherry blossoms, is a particularly popular spot for walking while enjoying the colorful scenery of red, yellow, and green in the fall. On the way there, you will board the popular Kintetsu The Sightseeing Limited Express"Blue symphony," which is a must-ride train. On the way back, you will also use the Kintetsu train, which will allow you to return smoothly without traffic jams. Enjoy autumn in Nara with this great value plan that also includes lunch!
We will board the Kintetsu The Sightseeing Limited Express"Blue symphony". Please enjoy the luxurious interior and the scenery outside the window. (Travel time: 1 hour 18 minutes) Cakes, ice cream, coffee, etc. are sold on board.
Enjoy lunch at a long-established ryokan founded in 1754. We will provide a Japanese lunch including "Yoshino Kudzu Nabe" made with "kudzu starch" harvested in the Yoshino region. (Photo is for illustrative purposes only.)
After lunch, enjoy free time to walk around Mount Yoshino and see the beautiful autumn leaves!
Mount Yoshino in Nara is famous for its cherry blossoms, but the autumn foliage is also not to be missed. Enjoy a walk while admiring the autumn leaves in Mount Yoshino, surrounded by nature. There are many slopes, but if you climb them you will reach an observation deck with a panoramic view of Mount Yoshino.
On the way, take the ropeway from Yoshinoyama Station to Senbonguchi Station.
Departing from Yoshino Station
train
Board the Kintetsu Limited Express (reserved seat).
PM16:50-18:30 Osaka Abenobashi Station
This concludes the tour. This time, we introduced a day trip tour departing from Abenobashi Station in Osaka to enjoy the autumn leaves of Nara and Yoshinoyama. For more information on the tour and to apply, please see the following page.
Yes. One guide (tour conductor) will accompany you on the tour. The guide will speak in Japanese during the tour, but for foreign visitors guests, they will provide information about the meeting place and time in English or Chinese.
When do I need to make a reservation?
Reservations must be made at least 4 days prior to departure.
When do cancellation fees start to apply?
Cancellation fees will be charged from 11 days prior to the departure date. (Cancellation fees will be charged 20% of the tour price if cancelled 8-10 days prior to the departure date, 30% if cancelled 2-7 days prior to the departure date, 40% if cancelled the day before departure, and 100% if cancelled on the day of departure.)
Embark on a Christmas adventure filled with light and sound as you explore Osaka Station City.
If you collect all nine colored stamps while visiting all nine stamp points set up in various locations, you will receive a cute "original limited edition mini towel (planned)."
There's also a fun feature where the tree is completed when you stamp all the stamps!
This is a Christmas-only tour event that can be enjoyed by families, friends, and couples alike. Come join us and create some winter memories.
Event period : Friday, November 21, 2025 to Thursday, December 25, 2025
Stamp points (planned) :
Toki-no-Hiroba Plaza, Eki Marche Osaka, Daimaru Umeda Store, Hotel Granvia Osaka, KITTE Osaka, Innogate Osaka, Osaka Station City Cinema, Umekita Green Place, Lucua Osaka (total of 9 locations)
Prize collection location : Lucua 6th floor PLAZA
Number of prizes : 2,000 (while supplies last / original stickers will be distributed after that)
Number of sheets distributed : 5,000
Twilight Fantasy 2025 - Christmas with sparkling sounds and playing lights. -
This winter, Osaka Station City will be enveloped in sound and light. "Twilight Fantasy 2025" is a special Christmas decoration created in collaboration with characters beloved around the world.
This is a tour event that is only available during the Christmas season.
A fantastical space where music and illuminations overlap will appear around the Space-Time Plaza and the Grand Staircase. The heartwarming performances by the characters will bring smiles and warmth to all who visit.
Main decoration area
Christmas decorations at the Past Space-Time Square
■Grand staircase decoration "Ornament rush!"
The staircase is decorated with ornaments that look as if they are falling from the sky, creating a lively and fun space. Colorful in the daytime, and fantastically illuminated at night, the design is dotted with character motifs, making your heart leap.
■Tree decoration in front of the Golden Clock
The photogenic decorations seem to capture the moment when the characters decorate the tree. The sparkling ribbons and plated balls will fill the hearts of those who see them with elegance.
■Rest area "Rest to you"
A relaxing space lined with rows of illuminated chairs. A "peace zone" where you can relax and chat, even during the bustling Christmas season, and immerse yourself in the world of the characters.
Enjoy a heartwarming winter moment with the characters, woven together with light and sound.
Event Overview
Period : Friday, November 21, 2025 to Thursday, December 25, 2025
Venue : Osaka Station City Toki-no-hiroba Plaza, Grand Staircase
Organized by : Osaka Station City Liaison Council
Tie-up : Information to be released after November 4th
There are activities such as horse-drawn experiences, horseshoe throwing, stilt walking challenges, and an exciting horse show. A wide variety of active experiences unique to the "town of horses"!
Everyone from small children to adults can enjoy an extraordinary time with horses. This is an event unique to Hokuto City, where you can feel relaxed just by touching the horses and taking photos.
Feel the nature on the Shingen Bomichi Walk
At the same time, the "Shingen Boudo Walk" will be held. We will walk along the historic Shingen Bodō road, which was built by the Sengoku daimyo Takeda Shingen and was selected as one of the 500 most beautiful walking paths in Japan .
A walking event where you can enjoy the view of the Mount Yatsugatake in the clear autumn air. You can enjoy both natural beauty and a road steeped in history. Advance registration is required .
Local gourmet food and markets are also plentiful
The venue will feature flavors unique to Hokuto , including fresh vegetables from the local Kobuchizawa area and bento boxes from local bento shops.
There's also a wide selection of gourmet food from the food truck, including cup steaks, kebabs, and crepes! The fragrant aroma fills the venue.
There will also be exhibits of handicrafts using horseshoes and local craft workshops.
Under the blue sky, tents and food trucks lined up and people coming and going created a lively scene. The atmosphere is warm and welcoming, something that only this festival can offer.
Event Schedule
The Hokuto Horse Town Festival will be held in mid-October in Kobuchizawa Town , Hokuto City, Yamanashi Prefecture Prefecture. The experience program will start in the morning at the venue, followed by a horse show in the afternoon. The way you enjoy it changes with time. You can enjoy an autumn day with horses throughout the day.
In the past, the schedule was as follows (excerpts of major events):
9:30am - Shingen Bodo Walk 10:30am - Horse-pulling experience, stilt challenge, horseshoe throwing 13:20～ Opening Ceremony 13:40～ Stage performance 14:45～ Horse Show
How to participate in the experience program
・Shingen Bodō Walk: Application required. Participation fee: 1,500 yen (advance reservation required) A popular program where you can walk along the historic road built by the Sengoku daimyo Takeda Shingen while enjoying the spectacular views of the Mount Yatsugatake.
・Horse-pulling experience: 500 yen per experience (registration on-site on the day) This is a popular experience that allows you to casually enjoy interacting with horses. There are also free activities available, such as horseshoe throwing and a stilt walking challenge.
Recommended spots to visit in Kobuchizawa, the town of horses
RISONARE Mount Yatsugatake
From October 1st to 31st, the entire facility will be decorated for Halloween as part of the " Risonare Halloween 2025 " event. Piman Street, reminiscent of a European street, is lined with pumpkins and lanterns, making it a great photo spot during the day and creating a fantastical atmosphere when lit up at night.
During the event, there will be a variety of content for visitors to enjoy in their own way, including a costume parade, limited edition sweets, and hands-on workshops. If you stay at the hotel, you can enjoy the illuminated streets at night and the quiet atmosphere of the streets in the mornings.
Address: 129-1 Yamanashi Prefecture , Hokuto City Prefecture Event period: October 1st to 31st, 2025 Instagram:@risonare_yatsugatake
A popular spot where you can find fresh local vegetables and specialty products. There is a hot spring called "Enmei no Yu," a restaurant, a direct sales store, and more, so you can stop by during your trip and enjoy the "taste of Hokuto."
Address: 2968-1 Yamanashi Prefecture , Hokuto City, Yamanashi Prefecture Business hours: 9:00-18:00 (varies by facility) Official website:https://mkobuchisawa.jp/
A popular workshop area where you can enjoy a variety of craft experiences, such as pottery, glasswork, and leather goods making. Everyone, from children to adults, can enjoy the joy of "making" and create memories of their trip.
Address: 2968-1 Kobuchizawa-cho , Hokuto City, Yamanashi Prefecture (next to Kobuchizawa Roadside Station) Opening hours: 10:00-16:00 (varies depending on the experience)
A cafe and bar that is open from morning until night. Coffee brewed with Yusui from the Mount Yatsugatake and handmade sweets are popular, and this is a recommended place to relax and end your trip.
A new morning menu will be available from September 2025! We have added new menu items to make your mornings more luxurious, such as bacon eggs Benedict and banana pancakes.
Address: 398-1 Yamanashi Prefecture , Hokuto City Business hours: 8:30-21:00
How was it? Kobuchizawa, Hokuto City , is a "town of horses" where horses, people, and nature are connected. This year's Hokutouma Town Festival was once again filled with warm smiles and excitement. Next time, why not try spending some special time with a horse?
Also worth reading: Articles about Hokuto City , Yamanashi Prefecture
SATUDORA Okinawa Kokusai-Dori: A Go-To Drugstore in Naha!
SATUDORA is a Hokkaido-based drugstore with around 200 locations across the island. Outside of Hokkaido, it also has locations in Okinawa Prefecture, located on the southernmost tip of Japan!
Okinawa Prefecture is not only popular among domestic travelers, but is also seeing a steady annual increase in visitors from overseas. Kokusai-Dori Street, a must-visit spot in Okinawa, is home to SATUDORA, offering travelers a convenient place to pick up Japanese medicines and snacks between enjoying the incredible island cuisine and shopping.
It’s also very convenient to get to SATUDORA Okinawa Kokusai-Dori. From Naha Airport, take the monorail to Kencho-mae Station or Makishi Station and the store is within walking distance. If you’re coming from Naha Port, then it’s about a 15-minute bus ride.
SATUDORA Okinawa Kokusai-Dori features a bright, spacious store with a wide selection of products. The aisles are easy to navigate, so you can shop without feeling cramped. The store is open until 10:00 p.m., so if you’re staying at a hotel near Kokusai-dori Street, you can take your time browsing for medicine after a day of sightseeing.
Great Services for International Visitors
At SATUDORA Okinawa Kokusai-Dori, the following services are available to international visitors, ensuring a worry-free shopping experience while browsing for Japanese medicines!
・Tax-Free Services: Payment and tax-free processing are handled in a single transaction, making the process smoother and easier.
・Multilingual Services: If you need help finding a certain product or have any questions, just ask a staff member wearing a Chinese or English language badge for a comfortable shopping experience!
The above coupon can be used as is. Please show this barcode to the staff member at checkout.
・Tax-Free Coupon: Receive an even better deal with a coupon! Be sure to save this coupon before visiting SATUDORA! Purchases of 5,000 yen or more before tax are eligible to be tax-free. MATCHA readers can also enjoy an exclusive discount by presenting and scanning this coupon at check out.
Note: The tax-free discount coupon is valid only at duty-free stores in Hokkaido and Okinawa. It cannot be used at stores in Taiwan.
・Various Payment Options: A variety of payment options are accepted including credit cards, mobile payments, and Japanese transportation IC cards. You can easily make purchases without carrying cash.
・Business Hours: Even if you have a full day of plans, you can easily stop by in the evening for medicines or snacks, as the store is open daily until 22:00.
Top 10 Products at SATUDORA Okinawa Kokusai-Dori
At SATUDORA Okinawa Kokusai-Dori, you’ll find popular medicines, health supplements, and Okinawa-exclusive souvenirs! In this next section, we introduce the top five health and medicine products, along with five Okinawa-only products. Be sure to check them out before planning your trip to Okinawa!
1. Alinamine EX Plus 270 Tablets
A savior for working professionals! Alinamine is a highly popular anti-fatigue supplement that contains a unique vitamin B1 derivative that alleviates chronic fatigue, eye strain, shoulder and neck stiffness, and even lower back pain. This is recommended for those who spend every day working at a computer.
2. NEW UNA KOWA COOL 55 ml
Want to avoid leaving scars after scratching mosquito bites? Just apply a light layer of this anti-itch lotion for instant relief. Lidocaine soothes the itch while providing a cool, refreshing sensation that gives immediate results after use!
3. Sante FX NEO 12 ml
Do your eyes feel strained, dry, or red? If so, we recommend these highly popular eye drops. They contain ingredients that help promote eye metabolism and provide a strong, refreshing sensation after use. It’ll not only relieve dryness and redness, but also instantly leave your eyes feeling rejuvenated, almost as if you’ve pressed a reset button for them.
4. PAIR Acne Cream W 24 g
This product, a highly acclaimed acne cream in Japan, prevents the formation of whiteheads while soothing redness and inflammation with its dual-action formula. Its light texture makes it suitable for daily use.
5. DHC Sustained-Release Vitamin C (60-Day Supply)
This sustained-release vitamin C is the most popular product in the DHC series. Instead of being immediately expelled, its active ingredients are gradually released and take effect for over eight hours. Added vitamin B2 also helps support healthy skin.
6. Okinawa-Limited LuLuLun Sheet Mask Series (4 Varieties)
These sheet masks come in four varieties: the fresh tang of shikuwasa (a citrus native to Okinawa), West Indian cherry for a healthy glow, aloe for hydration and skin conditioning, and the gentle scent of shell ginger. Each variety has its own unique features. It also provides your skin with plenty of hydration thanks to being enriched with moisturizing and antioxidant ingredients. It’s a great addition to your daily skincare routine or as a souvenir for friends.
These potato chips are made with shikuwasa, an Okinawan specialty. The potato flavor and refreshing tang of shikuwasa are perfectly balanced without any greasiness whatsoever. A delightful aroma spreads with each bite, and they are so delicious you won’t be able to stop eating. Before you know it, you’ll have finished the whole bag.
8. Ryukyu Kokuto Kurono Chocolat Milk Chocolate Flavor 40 g
These chocolates, a blend of rich Okinawan black sugar with the smoothness of milk, are bite-sized, making them perfect for a quick snack. Their indulgent taste is irresistible to both adults and children!
9. BOURBON ELISE Kumejima no Beniimo Cream Wafers
Crispy wafers on the outside with a rich beniimo (Okinawan sweet potato) filling from Kumejima on the inside. Its mild sweetness and delicious flavor will captivate you the moment you take a bite. This beniimo wafer is a popular souvenir and also makes a great teatime treat. It’s perfect when enjoyed with a cup of hot tea for a relaxing afternoon.
Everyone knows HI-CHEW, but have you tried their Okinawa-exclusive flavors? Made with fruits from Okinawa, these candies let you enjoy tropical sweet and tangy flavors. You can savor three flavors—sweet and tangy pineapple, rich mango, and refreshing shikuwasa—all at once.
Not Just Kokusai-Dori! More SATUDORA Stores in Okinawa
Picture courtesy of SATUDORA, outside the Okinawa Ashibinaa Store
Picture courtesy of SATUDORA, outside the SATUDORA iias Okinawa Toyosaki Store
SATUDORA isn’t just on Kokusai-dori Street, but also has two other locations: Okinawa Toyosaki and Okinawa Ashibinaa. This makes it easy to stop by while shopping in the vibrant city of Naha, on the way to the airport, or even while at an outlet mall. Visit the nearest SATUDORA according to your schedule and shop for Japanese medicine and Okinawa-exclusive products to your heart’s content!
SATUDORA’s most popular products can also be purchased through the SATUDORA overseas online store (Chinese) by customers in Taiwan, Hong Kong, Macau, Singapore, or Thailand. There are also time-limited discount codes and free shipping campaigns, making it possible to have Japanese products delivered directly to your home.
When visiting Okinawa, don’t just enjoy the sunshine, beaches, and delicious local food, but make sure to include a stop at a drugstore on your itinerary. Originally from Hokkaido, SATUDORA can now be easily visited on Kokusai-dori Street in Okinawa. Here, you can stock up on Japanese medicines or pick up Okinawa-exclusive souvenirs, all in one place. With great access, business hours until 10:00 p.m., and perks like tax-free shopping, multilingual services, and more, it’s the ideal spot to shop for medicines and souvenirs during your trip to Okinawa!
Naruko Onsen is located in the northwestern part of Miyagi Prefecture and is known as a scenic spot where the leaves turn ablaze in autumn. The scenery created by the trees dyed in vibrant Aka and yellow is truly a special sight that can only be seen at this time of year.
In this article, we will introduce famous autumn foliage spots around Naruko Onsen. If you're thinking, "I want to enjoy a luxurious hot spring trip while also viewing the autumn leaves!", why not use this information to plan your trip?
When is the best time to see the autumn leaves around Naruko Onsen?
The best time to see the autumn leaves around Naruko Onsen is usually from late October to early November. At this time, the mountains and valleys around Naruko Gorge and Katanuma are dyed in vibrant gradations of Aka , yellow, and orange.
The cool mornings and evenings make the autumn leaves look even more beautiful. It is said that the longer the cold weather lasts, the more vivid the colors of maple, beech, and oak trees become.
With a little thought and consideration for when you visit, you will be able to encounter some truly memorable and moving scenery.
5 Must-See Spots for Viewing Autumn Leaves Around Naruko Onsen
Here we will introduce five carefully selected spots around Naruko Onsen that are particularly recommended for viewing autumn leaves.
Naruko Gorge | A magnificent view of the grand canyon woven with autumn leaves
Naruko Gorge is a valley that represents Naruko Onsen, located in Osaki City , Miyagi Prefecture . There are several hot spring resorts in the surrounding area, including Nakayama Onsen, Naruko Onsen, and Higashi Naruko Onsen, making it a popular area where you can enjoy both autumn leaves and hot springs.
In autumn, Naruko Gorge is captivating with its spectacular scenery, as the valley is filled with fiery red leaves. The 100m-deep gorge is dyed Aka and yellow, creating a magnificent sight of sheer cliffs and streams.
From the observation deck at Naruko Gorge Rest House, you can get a panoramic view of the entire gorge, which will leave you overwhelmed with its power. In particular, the contrast between the Ofukazawa Bridge spanning the gorge and the autumn leaves captivates visitors as a landscape that symbolizes Naruko Gorge.
Address: Miyagi Prefecture, Naruko Osaki City, Miyagi Prefecture
Access: Approximately 10 minutes by car from JR Naruko Onsen Station
Opening hours: 24 hours a day
Ofukazawa Promenade | A hidden gem of a walking trail in a quiet valley
The Ofukazawa Promenade is a place where you can walk among the autumn leaves and enjoy the autumn nature with all your senses.
The promenade is approximately 2.2 km long and takes about 50 minutes to complete. The relatively flat path makes it easy to walk and allows you to enjoy a leisurely stroll. Listening to the murmuring of the river and admiring the beautiful colors of the beech, oak, maple and other trees up close is an exceptional experience.
Especially in the morning, when the light filters through the trees and illuminates the autumn leaves, creating a fantastical sight. Why not spend some luxurious time strolling along the Ofukazawa Promenade, taking in the crisp autumn air?
Address: Ofukazawa, Naruko Onsen , Osaki City, Miyagi Prefecture Prefecture
Access: Approximately 15 minutes by car from JR Naruko Onsen Station
Opening hours: 24 hours a day
Naruko Gorge Promenade | Two routes to enjoy the spectacular scenery along the mountain stream
If you want to experience the nature of Naruko Gorge up close, we recommend the Naruko Gorge Promenade. As you walk along the mountain stream, you can enjoy the spectacular scenery of the clear water flowing and the dynamic rock faces. One of the joys of the walk is searching for rocks with unique names such as "Saru no Tekake Rock" (Monkey's Tegake Rock) and "Byobu Rock" (Screen Screen Rock).
Currently, the Narukokyo Promenade can be walked on two routes: Nakayama and Narukoguchi. Nakayama is a winding promenade about 350m long, set on a cliff with a drop of 100m. On the other hand, Narukoguchi is a promenade about 230m long one way.
Address: Miyagi Prefecture, Naruko Onsen , Osaki City, Miyagi Prefecture
Access: Starting point of Nakayama: Narukokyo Rest House, First Parking Lot
Starting point of Narukoguchi: Otanigawa Bridge
Business hours: 9:00-16:00 (both Nakayama and Naruko entrances)
Katanuma | A spectacular view of the sparkling emerald green lake and autumn leaves
Katanuma is a volcanic caldera lake with a mysterious emerald green water surface.
During the autumn foliage season, the vibrant colors of the trees surrounding the lake are reflected on its surface, creating a breathtaking sight. The color of the lake, which changes subtly depending on the season, weather, and time of day, also captivates visitors.
There is a promenade along the lakeside, and it takes about 30 minutes to walk around it. The well-trodden path is easy to walk on, and you can spend a relaxing time enjoying the contrast between the emerald green lake and the autumn leaves up close.
Access: Approximately 7 minutes by car from JR Naruko Onsen Station
Opening hours: Open 24 hours (closed for winter from late November to late April)
Around Naruko Dam | Enjoy the reflections of autumn leaves without the crowds
If you want to avoid the hustle and bustle of Naruko Gorge and Katanuma and enjoy the autumn leaves in a quiet setting, we recommend Naruko Dam. The autumn leaves are reflected on the calm surface of the majestic dam lake, creating an exceptionally beautiful sight.
Naruko Dam is known as the first arch concrete dam in Japan to be built entirely by Japanese engineers. You can spend your time there however you like, such as walking along the dam's embankment or enjoying the view from the observation deck.
The artificial dam and the natural beauty of the fiery autumn leaves blend beautifully together, creating a spectacular view that will make you want to take a picture. This is the perfect hidden spot for those who want to enjoy a romantic atmosphere and take a photo that will look great on social media.
Address: Miyagi Prefecture , Osaki City Prefecture
Access: Approximately 10 minutes by car from JR Naruko Onsen Station
Opening hours: 8:30am - 5pm (please refer to the Naruko Dam website for closing dates)
If you want to enjoy the autumn leaves around Naruko Onsen, head to Hotel WAMARE Onikobe
In autumn, the Naruko Onsen area offers a variety of autumn foliage attractions, from the beauty of the valleys and the reflections on the lake surface to strolling along quiet promenades. The contrast between the Aka and yellow mountains and the pure water captivates visitors.
If you're planning a trip to enjoy the autumn leaves of Naruko Onsen to your heart's content, we recommend Hotel WAMARE Onikobe. Located in the Onikobe Onsen area, you can rent an entire building with a modern Japanese atmosphere and relax while savoring the afterglow of your autumn foliage viewing.
Yabu City's food will be gathered together! Approximately 60 stores will be participating!
Businesses and organizations in Yabu City will be selling their delicious gourmet food and local specialties, bringing Yabu City cuisine to visitors! Approximately 60 stores are scheduled to set up stalls, including food and drink booths using ingredients from Yabu City, local product sales, and food trucks, making this an event that will help to strengthen connections within the community.
Check out local specialties such as Asakura pepper
Check out the gourmet food packed with local charm, including products made with Asakura pepper, a specialty of Yabu City , serpentine rice, and famous sweets! You can enjoy dishes and products made with ingredients unique to Yabu City!
A stage event will also be held at the same time!
In addition to enjoying food at the venue, stage events will also be held. Highlights include the Kansai-based 5-person creator group "WhoAreYou? (Fua-chan)" and the "Yoshimoto Kogyo Virtual Yabu Stage"! Plus, there will be an appearance by Yapu and Yappy in the "Yabu City Origins!! Asakura Sansho Eating Competition," as well as a big raffle! There will be a program for the whole family to enjoy! Come with your family and friends for a delicious, fun and lively day!
In winter, particularly around the Christmas season, various dazzling illumination events light up the Tokyo cityscape. These popular locations are continually updated with new attractions each year and draw large crowds of visitors.
Below is a list of 12 illumination events in Tokyo taking place from November 2025 to early 2026.
The Roppongi Hills Christmas held every year in Roppongi is one of the most popular events in Tokyo during the Christmas season. The Keyakizaka Avenue is adorned with 800,000 LED lights at night, becoming a truly romantic spot in winter.
In 2025, the Keyakizaka Illumination in Ropongi takes place from November 4 to December 25, every day from 17:00 to 23:00. Together with the Tokyo Tower in the background, it creates a dreamlike and beautiful scenery.
Various other locations in Roppongi Hills, such as 66 Plaza, Mohri Garden, West Walk, and Tokyo City View, all offer different types of lighting.
Roppongi Hills is accessible from Roppongi Station (Exit 1C) via the Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line or Roppongi Station (Exit 3) via the Toei Oedo Line.
Let's take a look at some of the special features of this year's Roppongi Hills Christmas.
Roppongi Hills Christmas Market 2025
This year marks the 19th anniversary of the Roppongi Hills Christmas Market.
10 shops will line the area, offering authentic German Christmas goods, glühwein (mulled wine), sausages, and other traditional German cuisine, bringing you a heartwarming Christmas experience.
Dates: November 22 - December 25, 2025
Hours: 11:00 - 21:00
66 Plaza: Luminous Bouquet
Picture courtesy of PR Times
Within the facility, 66 Plaza also offers Christmas lights to enjoy. Luminous Bouquet is inspired by colorful bouquets, and approximately 200,000 LED lights add splendid colors to the trees, creating a joyful mood as if receiving a bouquet.
The row of zelkova trees, a signature hallmark of Tokyo's Omotesando, will be illuminated in champagne gold, along with the shrubbery.
Half a million LED lights will warm the hearts of pedestrians during winter nights. Omotesando is accessible from Meiji-jingumae Station (via the Tokyo Metro Chiyoda and Fukutoshin Lines) and JR Omotesando Station.
Dates: December 1, 2025 - January 5, 2026
*From December 29 to January 5, only the bushes lining the street will be adorned with lights. Hours: 17:00 - 22:00
3. Marunouchi Illumination 2025: Near Tokyo Station
Photo by Pixta
The Marunouchi Illumination 2025 is a seasonal tradition where the trees lining the 1.2-kilometer Marunouchi Nakadori Avenue are decorated with champagne gold lights.
The avenue is just a one-minute walk from the Marunouchi Exit of Tokyo Station (via JR Line or Tokyo Metro). The street's trees are elegantly draped in sparkling champagne gold lights.
This display is also eco-friendly: it uses an energy-saving system where the electricity is generated entirely by solar or wind power.
Picture courtesy of PR Times
Additionally, a section of Gyoko-dori Avenue (connecting Tokyo Station and the Imperial Palace Outer Garden) will also feature illuminations from November 25 to December 25.
In addition to highlights like the Marunouchi Street Park Winter event, featuring coffee, pizza, and hot stew booths, there will also be a Christmas Market on Nakadori Avenue.
Marunouchi Illumination 2025
Nakadori Avenue
Dates: November 13, 2025 - February 15, 2026
Hours: 16:00 to 23:00
*From December 1 to 31, the illumination will start at 16:00 and last until midnight.
Gyokodori Avenue
Dates: November 25 - December 25, 2025
Hours: 16:00 to 24:00
MARUNOUCHI BRIGHT HOLIDAY 2025 - Disney JOYFUL MOMENTS
Picture courtesy of PR Times
The entire Marunouchi area offers a variety of other Christmas events as well. This year's theme is "MARUNOUCHI BRIGHT HOLIDAY 2025 - Disney JOYFUL MOMENTS", featuring displays and decorations inspired by popular Disney works.
Visit facilities like the Marunouchi Building, Shin-Marunouchi Building, and Marunouchi Oazo to enjoy a festive atmosphere.
MARUNOUCHI BRIGHT HOLIDAY 2025 - Disney JOYFUL MOMENTS
Tokyo Dome City can be accessed from Suidobashi Station (via the JR Chuo, Sobu Line, and Toei Mita Line), Korakuen Station (Tokyo Metro Marunouchi and Namboku Lines), and Kasuga Station (Toei Oedo Line).
The annual illumination event at Tokyo Dome City has become a winter tradition. At its 20th edition this year, the event's theme is Snow Globe, showcasing 4 different snow dome areas sparkling with illuminations and beautiful snow-themed decorations and installations.
At TOKYO SNOW DOME CITY, the illumination will feature meticulous attention to detail, showcasing a variety of beautiful installations and enchanting decorations that enhance the overall experience.
Guests will find areas where they can physically engage with the lights, creating a truly immersive atmosphere. This event is designed to inspire magical memories, making it the perfect setting for visitors to explore and enjoy. Whether you're with family, a couple, friends, or alone, there's no doubt that you'll have a great time! TOKYO SNOW DOME CITY
Dates: November 17, 2025 - March 1, 2026
Light-up hours: 17:00 - 00:00
Website: Tokyo Snow Dome City
Please note that the illumination time will differ according to the area and period.
5. Yomiuriland Jewellumination 2025
Picture courtesy of PR Times
While Yomiuriland is known as an amusement park, it is also famous for its large-scale illuminations.
The lighting is titled Jewellumination, a first of its kind worldwide, and supervised by a renowned lighting designer using 24 gemstone colors. Visitors will be welcomed by 5.5 million lightbulbs, along with the water show.
The grand theme of the Jewellumination in 2025 is "Light is Love" while the subtheme is "LIGHT HOP," which hints at soaring high, inspired by the lights. Visit to enjoy illuminated rides, dazzling fountain shows, and plenty of opportunities to take amazing photos.
Yomiuriland can be reached in about 10 to 15 minutes by bus from either Keio Yomiuri-Land Station (via the Keio Line) or Yomiuriland-mae Station (via the Odakyu Line).
Yomiuriland Jewellumination 2025
Dates: October 23, 2025 - end of March, 2025 Hours: 16:00 - 20:30
The HIBIYA Magic Time Illumination is an illumination event themed around "magical moments," leveraging the distinct character of Hibiya as an entertainment town with deep ties to film and music.
HIBIYA Magic Time SQUARE 2025, centered at Hibiya Step Plaza, will create a vibrant, brightly-lit space that evokes a major metropolis where people from around the globe connect.
A highlight this year is a magnificent tree inspired by Disney Animation Studios’ new film, "Zootopia 2". Scaled up to 8 meters, this main tree features full-color illumination that, combined with surrounding cube lights, provides a dynamic, three-dimensional visual experience.
Illumination will also be extended to the tree near the Grand Staircase and the Hibiya Step Plaza perimeter, ensuring the entire area sparkles even more brilliantly.
The stairway around the plaza is lit up in a beautiful rainbow leading to the garden where visitors will be greeted by a glittering open garden full of rainbow LED lights! The area offers a beautiful view of the city and seats to relax while looking out onto Tokyo Tower.
HIBIYA Magic Time Illumination 2025
Dates: November 13, 2025 - February 28, 2026
Hours: 16:00 - 23:00
Website: https://www.hibiya.tokyo-midtown.com/jp/event/7174/
Location: Hibiya Nakadori/Tokyo Midtown Hibiya Exterior (Hibiya Step Plaza/6F Park View Garden)
Tokyo Mega Illumination, hosted inside the Oi Racecourse from November 1 to January 11, is the ideal spot to indulge in an afternoon of fun in a park full of sparkling lights, attractions, and delicious food!
Just 20 minutes from Tokyo Teleport Station and 13 minutes away from Haneda Airport, Tokyo Mega Illumination is easily accessible and a great place to stop by after a long day venturing around Tokyo!
For those wishing to see the magical lights and romantic scenery of Odaiba, you can also fit this dazzling gem into your itinerary.
Within the expansive venue, visitors can enjoy dazzling attractions such as illumination shows with large rainbow fountains, walk under glittering tunnels of light, and watch as aurora lights dance over silver light trees!
Animal lovers can also meet the horses at the racecourse. The racecourse makes use of lights to highlight the venue's natural beauty such as the gigantic magical tree surrounded by beautiful projection mapping.
The event also features delicious food, making it an ideal afternoon activity for families, friends, and couples to go to when in Tokyo.
TOKYO ILLUMILIA illuminates the Yaesu and Nihonbashi districts, centered on Nihonbashi Sakura Dori, the street connecting the Yaesu Exit of Tokyo Station to Nihonbashi.
As a newly developed area at the dawn of the Edo period, this district has continuously evolved and been rebuilt over time. Launched in 2009, TOKYO ILLUMILIA carries on the history, culture, and spirit of Edo—which thrived as a center of commerce and activity—and aims to blend the aspirations of its visitors with the enduring vitality of the community.
The various buildings near the Yaesu Exit of Tokyo Station, including Yaesu Terrace, will be hosting illumination events and seasonal decorations.
Tokyo Midtown, a shopping complex in Roppongi, will host MIDTOWN CHRISTMAS 2025 from November 13 to December 25, 2025. This year's concept is "Your Christmas Story," where the glittering illuminations transform the Midtown Garden, inviting you to begin your own special "Christmas Story" the moment you step inside.
In the Midtown Garden, the popular illumination show from last year returns, offering a magical white Christmas-like atmosphere complete with shimmering soap bubbles and falling snow effects.
Synchronized with original music, the show provides a dramatic experience woven from light and sound. The winter evening is further enhanced by a real fir tree bathed in gold light and the "Walk of Light," a pathway of soft gold illumination designed to create lasting memories for visitors.
Picture courtesy of PR Times
Indoors, a delightful Christmas scene unfolds, featuring the "Santa Tree," which gathers approximately 1,600 miniature Santas, and the "Christmas Marche," where you can find an array of festive holiday items. Enjoy a wonderful Christmas season with these unique and distinct light displays!
Tokyo Skytree is a must-visit in winter! The area is the perfect place to celebrate Christmas and participate in seasonal activities. With Tokyo Skytree Town already boasting great food and shopping options, the shopping center is ideal for those looking for Christmas shopping and gifts for loved ones.
Tokyo Skytree Town Dream Christmas 2025 features a gigantic Christmas tree placed in front of the tower, making it the perfect photo spot! Acting as a centerpiece to Tokyo Skytree Town, the tree will be 8 meters tall!
The event's popular Christmas Market creates a cozy, sheltered environment as it surrounds the Christmas tree selling imported goods from Germany and warm, delicious beverages and food.
Picture courtesy of PR Times
The Tokyo Skytree's Christmas special lighting design will be completely renewed for the first time since its grand opening! The new display will feature three changing themes: the "Ornament Tree," the "Elegant Tree," and "Santa Claus."
Come enjoy a special holiday moment with the world's tallest "Christmas tree."
Picture courtesy of PR Times
Colorful projection mapping will dance over Tokyo Skytree as the plaza is full of fun music and performances. Turning the area into one gigantic entertainment spot, the exterior as well as the interior of Tokyo Skytree will be brimming with Christmas delight!
Those who climb the tower have the great opportunity to capture festive photos and installations while gazing over a panoramic view of the world's largest city.
Tokyo Skytree Town Dream Christmas 2025
Dates: November 1 to December 25, 2025
Illuminations Hours: 16:00 - 24:00
Christmas Market: 11:00 - 22:00 (L.O. 21:00) Location: Tokyo Skytree Town 4F Sky Arena
11. Odaiba Illumination YAKEI Christmas
Picture courtesy of PR Times
Odaiba is a popular spot for its YAKEI illuminations, held all year round. Famous for its Rainbow Bridge and Statue of Liberty, the area has illuminations that light up each night throughout the year.
Those who visit the area are greeted by the amazing scenery of Tokyo's nightscape, including the Tokyo Tower illuminating the city's skyline. Odaiba is great for amusement, games, food, and shopping, and offers great panoramic views of the city.
Picture courtesy of PR Times
In December, Decks Tokyo Beach hosts a Christmas-themed illumination, decorating its real 20-meter-high Odaiba Memorial Tree with Christmas lights and boasting an adorable art spot for great photos.
The attractions will coincide with the area's 100,000 coated trees that are illuminated all year round.
Event Details
Odaiba Illumination YAKEI
Period: All year round
Time: 17:00 - 24:00
Location: Decks Tokyo Beach 3F Seaside Deck
Official website: https://www.odaiba-decks.com/yakei/
12. Yebisu Garden Place Illuminations and Christmas Marche
Yebisu Garden Place Winter Illuminations are one of Tokyo's most popular winter events. Brimming with elegance each year, Yebisu Garden Place is adorned with shining golden lights, beautiful installations, quaint Christmas huts, and rich red decor.
Placed in the spotlight, a sparkling Christmas tree decorated from head to toe with large red ornaments shines as one of the main attractions in the event.
A red carpet leads from the Christmas tree towards the sophisticated Baccarat Chandelier, one of the world's largest chandeliers, measuring five meters tall and three meters wide!
Made from 250 lights and 8,472 dazzling crystals, the chandelier and its elegant surroundings are sure to impress visitors.
Hot chocolate, mulled wine, and pastries are just a few of the delights sold at the garden's Christmas Marche! Visitors can participate in seasonal treats and activities such as delicious European food, ice skating, and taking photos at the Christmas photo spots.
Yebisu Garden Place Illuminations and Christmas Marche
Illumination
Dates: November 8, 2025 - March 1, 2026
Hours: 16:00 - 23:00
Christmas Marche
Dates: November 8 - December 25, 2025
Hours: weekdays 17:00 - 20:00、weekends and holidays 12:00 - 20:00
Tokyo offers a spectacular array of illuminated displays and lights that captivate visitors throughout the year, especially during seasonal events. Shibuya's bustling streets and department stores like Shibuya 109 dazzle with festive lights during Christmas and New Year's celebrations. Shinjuku shines brightly with impressive winter illuminations around its station and commercial district, with Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden adding to the enchanting atmosphere. Tokyo Midtown in Roppongi boasts popular illumination events with intricate light displays and artistic creations. Odaiba's modern architecture comes alive with vibrant lights, particularly around the Rainbow Bridge and shopping complexes like Palette Town. Tokyo Dome City in Bunkyo Ward and Caretta Shiodome in Shiodome also offer captivating light shows and festive illuminations, creating a magical and vibrant ambiance that showcases Tokyo's dynamic and lively spirit through its stunning displays of lights.
Does Tokyo have Christmas lights?
Tokyo transforms into a dazzling wonderland during the holiday season with enchanting Christmas lights and illuminations that adorn various districts and attractions throughout the city. Shibuya's lively streets and department stores burst with festive decorations and vibrant lights, creating a spirited atmosphere. Roppongi Hills and Tokyo Midtown in Roppongi showcase elaborate light displays, art installations, and decorative sculptures that capture the magic of Christmas. Marunouchi near Tokyo Station and Omotesando Avenue in Harajuku enchant visitors with elegant and sophisticated decorations, adding a touch of charm to the holiday experience. These locations, among others, offer residents and tourists alike the opportunity to immerse themselves in the festive spirit of Christmas through stunning displays of lights and decorations that illuminate Tokyo with warmth and joy during the holiday season.
Where is the Roppongi illumination?
Roppongi Illumination is a popular winter illumination event that takes place in Roppongi, a vibrant district in Tokyo known for its nightlife, art galleries, and entertainment options. During the holiday season, Roppongi Hills and Tokyo Midtown, two major shopping and entertainment complexes in the area, host elaborate light displays and festive illuminations that attract visitors from all over the city. Roppongi Illumination features intricate light shows, art installations, and themed displays that transform the district into a magical winter wonderland, captivating spectators with its dazzling colors and festive atmosphere. Both Roppongi Hills and Tokyo Midtown are easily accessible by public transportation, making it convenient for visitors to experience the enchanting Roppongi Illumination during the holiday season.
Where is the best place to see Christmas in Tokyo?
Tokyo offers a delightful array of festive locations to experience the enchanting spirit of Christmas. Shibuya dazzles with vibrant displays and decorations around popular spots like Shibuya Crossing and department stores, creating a lively and bustling holiday atmosphere. Roppongi Hills and Tokyo Midtown in Roppongi are renowned for their elaborate Christmas illuminations and themed displays, providing a sophisticated and magical setting for visitors to revel in the holiday spirit. Marunouchi near Tokyo Station and Omotesando Avenue in Harajuku transform into winter wonderlands, drawing crowds with enchanting lights, festive decorations, and engaging activities that capture the joy and charm of Christmas in Tokyo. These spots offer visitors memorable experiences and the chance to immerse themselves in the festive ambiance of the holiday season in the vibrant city of Tokyo.
Is Christmas better in Tokyo or Osaka?
Tokyo and Osaka each offer distinct and enchanting experiences during the Christmas season, catering to different preferences. Tokyo's extravagant illuminations, luxurious shopping districts, and sophisticated atmosphere make it ideal for those seeking a glamorous and vibrant holiday celebration. On the other hand, Osaka's cozy and relaxed ambiance, friendly locals, and charming decorations create a warm and inviting setting, perfect for a more laid-back and local-flavored Christmas experience. Whether you prefer Tokyo's grand displays and cosmopolitan vibe or Osaka's intimate celebrations and vibrant street scene, both cities provide magical and memorable ways to enjoy the festive spirit of Christmas in Japan.
Enjoy the Winter Lights in Tokyo!
Photo by Pixta
The Christmas season is when the Tokyo cityscape truly shines. If you are visiting Japan during the winter, please enjoy the illumination with warm clothing.
The sea of lights is sure to fascinate visitors, perhaps even moving some to tears. This is a chance to make memories while taking in the magical atmosphere.
Why not enjoy a special Christmas atmosphere that is unique to Japan?
Known by those in the know-- and a favorite among pros-- Osaka Golf Club is a prestigious course just 40-minutes from the Kansai International Airport!
This seaside course, one of the finest in Kansai, features a beautiful 18-hole layout designed by Osamu Ueda. It has been ranked in Rolex's "The World's Top 1000 Golf Courses" (2010), and GOLF.com's "Top 100 Courses in Asia-Pacific" (2023), among other distinctions.
Retro-modern, and a refined front-desk and lounge
Pro Shop
A feature video introducing the Osaka Golf Club is also available on Youtube (Laugh & Rough Ch.). It includes a special interview with the General Manager and an in-house pro-exclusive content you won't find elsewhere, so be sure to also check it out!
An 18-Hole Seaside Challenge with Strategic Brilliance
Opened in 1938 (Showa 13), Osaka Golf Club celebrates its 88th-year this year (2025 at time of writing). At its opening, the course measured 6,700-yards (Out 3,375-yards, In 3,325-yards), Par 72-- one of the most challenging in Japan, famed for stoking the competitive spirit.
Although the club was temporarily closed due to wartime circumstances, it was elegantly remodeled and re-opened after 16-years thanks to strong requests from locals and members, as well as the efforts of the first chairman, and many others. Since then, it has been beloved by golfers from Japan and abroad as a community-rooted golf club.
Map (after renewal)
The club's greatest charm is its expansive panoramic ocean view. The most popular-- and proudly recommended by the general manager is the 7th Hole.
Against the backdrop of the calm blue sea, you can take in the Kansai International Airport, Awaji Island, Kobe's Cityscape, and even Mt. Rokko-- giving you the sensation of playing along the horizon where the sky meets the sea.
This view instantly captivates first-time visitors and keeps them coming back. In addition to the sweeping views of the Osaka Bay, you can also see planes arriving and departing from Kansai International Airport. Access is also excellent with only 40-minutes from the airport. Despite its proximity to the city, the course offers a comfortable golf experience amid the rich nature and stunning scenery.
The 7th hole offers a view of Osaka Bay
Of course, there's more to the its reputation than just beautiful views. Each hole has a distinct personality shaped by the complex coastal terrain-- another hallmark of the Osaka Golf Club. Every round reveals fresh challenges and the joy of crafting strategies never ends. The design invites repeat play without getting tired of the course, which fuels players' desire to take on new challenges which is one of its biggest draws.
As you can see from the drone footage, the course makes deft use of the rolling hills, demanding distance control and accuracy. If you go in, you might escape only to get caught by the next bunker-- especially tough for beginners. According to the general manager, "the strategy is learning how to avoid going in the bunker", which while easier said than done, players who relish in crafting their technique, is a stage well worth the challenge.
The third hole by the sea
Furthermore, there are over 80 deep bunkers scattered throughout the course, including the signature Allison Bunkers, which are located throughout the course. Some bunkers are so positioned that if you hit one into one, even if you manage to escape, you'll end up trapped in the bunker right next to it, making them particularly formidable for beginners. According to the manager, "The strategy is to devise ways to avoid hitting one into the bunker." For players who value strategy, this is truly a challenging course worth playing on.
We also interviewed an in-house pro golfer for this feature and gathered some valuable insights about what makes the Osaka Golf Club so special. Check out the Youtube video to get the full details!
A smooth round is important for your flow. Relaxing spaces and Services before and after the play make the overall experience richer and more satisfying. Here are some of the facilities in the Osaka Golf Club perfect for a comfortable break.
Teahouse
Inside the course, you'll find a charming cottage-style teahouse in warm brown tones. Step by between holes for a wide variety of drinks and sweets, including the "Arida Mikan Ice Bar", made with high-quality mandarins from the Wakayama Prefecture! A wide selection of snacks is also available for a relaxing break.
The Teahouse
After a few holes, take a short rest to reset before tackling on the next stretch. A light refresh here is sure to power your play!
Furthermore, the currently running "NANKAI Wellness Tourism" special tour for foreign visitors to Japan also includes a service that allows you to freely enjoy a variety of drinks and snacks provided at the tea shop. Please come and experience the attentive hospitality that is unique to Osaka Golf Club.
[NANKAI Wellness Tourism Inquiries] Name: Nankai Travel International Co.,INC TEL +81-06-6641-4010 e-mail: medical@geo-nti.co.jp
Restaurant
You can enjoy a Japanese-Western fusion breakfast and lunch made with plenty of seasonal ingredients.
Just hearing about the menu will whet your appetite, with dishes such as fragrantly grilled beef steak, flavorful tantanmen noodles, and a bowl of extremely fresh tuna and boiled whitebait. You can truly enjoy a luxurious time that will satisfy both your body and mind.
(Left) Beef steak | (Right) Whitebait bowl
VIP Room
Exclusively for guests who have applied for "NANKAI Wellness Tourism," you can enjoy lunch in the VIP VIP room. This space, which is not open to the general public, is truly a special place reserved for VIPs in both name and reality. In a refined atmosphere exuding high status, you can savor exquisite cuisine while gazing out at the beautiful seascape and majestic skyline of the course. This is a luxurious experience that can only be found at a prestigious golf club.
VIP room
Bath House
The bathroom is a bright and clean space with natural light streaming in through the large windows. It's the perfect place to soothe your fatigue after a round of golf and you can spend some relaxing time there. The simple yet calming atmosphere makes it a place where you can refresh both your body and mind.
Relax your body and mind in the warm water
↓If hot water alone isn't enough for you, set off on a tour of Wakayama's hot springs.
Name: Nankai Travel International Co.,INC TEL +81-06-6641-4010 e-mail: medical@geo-nti.co.jp
If you miscalculate your travel budget or get carried away with shopping and find yourself short on Japanese cash during your trip, what should you do?
MATCHA's editors have compiled the following eight ways to handle the situation when you're short on cash. Hopefully, they’ll come in handy like a little emergency toolkit!
1. Exchange money at the bank
Just like when we exchange yen before traveling abroad, if you really find yourself short of yen, it’s recommended to go to a bank in Japan that offers currency exchange services, fill out an exchange application form, and take a number to wait to be called for the exchange.
Japanese bank hours are usually from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., and they are closed on holidays, so those who need to exchange yen should pay attention to the time!
2. Currency exchange shops are convenient
If you find the banks are closed for holidays or you urgently need to exchange yen after 3:00 p.m., roadside currency exchange shops are your best friends!
Just go to a shop that has “Money Exchange” written, tell the counter staff that you want to exchange foreign currency, and they will assist you. Sometimes their rates can even be better than banks.
In addition to exchanging foreign currencies, these shops also sell discounted transportation tickets, theme park and attraction tickets, and meal vouchers—useful money-saving tips for travelers! It’s also recommended to use established chain stores such as Daikokuya (大黒屋) for more reliability.
3. Automatic foreign exchange machines — no Japanese required
If you don’t speak Japanese and tend to be shy, automatic currency exchange machines are your lifesavers!
After Japan reopened its borders and began welcoming travelers from around the world, many major cities now have multilingual automatic currency exchange machines.
Besides occasionally appearing in busy shopping streets, they are usually installed in convenience stores or large department stores (for example, Takashimaya).
If your yen is about to run out, just put your home-country bills into the machine to exchange them.
4. International ATMs are also lifesavers when you’re short on cash
What if you want to exchange cash but don’t even have any of your home currency on hand?
It’s recommended that you use an international ATM with a debit or credit card that has international withdrawal enabled to withdraw local cash directly from your home account.
The ATMs at Japan Post offices or Japan Post Banks (Yucho Ginko) are usually international and allow cash withdrawals from Mastercard or VISA cards.
However, an important point is that this service is limited to cards that have international withdrawal enabled. If you didn’t have this feature activated with your bank before traveling, you won’t be able to withdraw money.
So add this to your pre-trip checklist — enable international withdrawals for peace of mind, and also check your bank’s fee structure in advance.
5. The simplest option when you have no cash: use a card
Yes — the simplest option is to pay by card! Card acceptance is increasingly widespread in Japan. If you find your yen running low, try to use your card when shopping in shopping streets, convenience stores, and department stores whenever possible.
With card rewards, paying by card can even be more economical than exchanging cash. Reserve your remaining cash for things that only accept cash, such as meals, transportation, and admission fees.
QUICPay, a contactless payment service developed by JCB, is supported by over a million card terminals in Japan. iPhone users can add certain JCB credit cards to Apple Pay and use QUICPay at participating stores and vending machines that display the QUICPay logo!
Pay by card, then go to the department store for tax refund and cash
If you urgently need cash, you can pay by card and then use the department store’s cash tax-refund service afterward — the more you buy, the more cash you can get back.
However, note that some department stores charge a handling fee for cash refunds, so you’ll need to weigh whether it’s worth it or choose stores that don’t charge a fee!
7. Mobile QR-code payments — also usable cross-border in Japan
Super-convenient mobile QR-code payments are now available in Japan! Japan’s largest QR payment service, PayPay, can be used at 4.1 million partner stores in Japan.
However, note that many department stores and shopping malls limit tax-refund payment methods to cash or card, so it’s better to use QR payments at convenience stores, restaurants, or small shops that don’t offer tax refunds.
8. Money loaded onto transit IC cards can be used for travel and shopping
Frequent travelers to Japan often buy a contactless transit IC card (such as Suica or PASMO). But did you know that the balance loaded onto the card can also be used directly for shopping?
Using transit IC cards for payments is very common in Japan — in addition to department stores, restaurants, and convenience stores, many vending machines and even crane (UFO catcher) game machines accept them! No need to search for or exchange small change — very convenient.
Quick Tip from MATCHA
Today, we introduced various solutions for when you don’t have enough Japanese cash. On your next trip to Japan, you can mix and match these cash alternatives to travel with more peace of mind — and maybe even save money!
We also recommend estimating basic cash needs for transportation and meals before you go, keeping that money in a separate wallet, or loading it onto a transit IC card in advance. For larger purchases (such as accommodation or electronics), it’s still best to pay by card to avoid the embarrassment of suddenly running out of cash while traveling.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much yen can a person bring to Japan?
There is no limit on the amount of cash you may carry, but if you bring more than 1,000,000 yen or the equivalent in other currencies, you must complete a declaration form upon entering Japan. Carrying a lot of money around is not illegal; declaring it is intended to prevent money laundering and other illicit activities.
How much yen should I bring to Japan?
The appropriate amount of cash to bring depends on your travel habits, itinerary, and how often you use credit cards or electronic payments. Here is a reference based on moderate spending:
5-day trip:
Recommended cash to bring: about 30,000 to 50,000 yen.
Reason: This money is mainly for transportation (subway tickets, buses, etc.), small meals (street food, convenience store purchases), admission fees (some small attractions), and shops that accept cash only. Large purchases and hotel stays can usually be paid by card, so you don’t need to bring too much cash.
7-day trip:
Recommended cash to bring: about 40,000 to 70,000 yen.
Reason: With more days, average daily expenses increase slightly. The extra cash can cover additional transportation, souvenir purchases, or meals at more small shops.
Is it worth exchanging yen at Japanese airports?
It’s not recommended to exchange large amounts of yen at the airport because rates are usually less favorable.
Pros: convenient and immediate — you can get yen right after landing, which is useful for emergencies.
Cons: exchange rates are often worse than those at banks in your home country, and fees may be higher.
Recommendation:
Exchange the cash you need at your local bank before departure. If you need additional cash upon arrival, exchange only a small amount at the airport’s bank or exchange counter.
How do I withdraw yen from ATMs in Japan?
In Japan, you can withdraw yen from ATMs using the "international withdrawal" service.
Where to withdraw:
Japan Post ATMs (Japan Post Bank / ゆうちょ銀行): support many international bank cards and often offer an English language option.
7-Eleven ATMs: ATMs in 7-Eleven convenience stores are the most commonly used and convenient option for foreign travelers; most accept international bank cards.
Withdrawal steps:
1. Find an ATM that supports international withdrawals (look for logos such as PLUS, Cirrus, or UnionPay).
2. Insert your debit/ATM card.
3. Select the option for "International Card" or "Card issued overseas."
4. Choose "Withdrawal."
5. Enter your PIN (usually four digits).
6. Enter the amount you want to withdraw.
7. Complete the transaction and take your card and cash.
Notes:
Fees: Each withdrawal may incur fees charged by both your home bank and the Japanese ATM operator. It’s recommended to withdraw a larger amount at once to reduce the number of withdrawals.
Check before you travel: Before departure, confirm with your card issuer that international withdrawals are enabled, and ask about daily withdrawal limits and fees so you can withdraw smoothly in Japan.
OCAT (Osaka City Air Terminal) is a complex located in Namba, Minami, Osaka. It is a six-story complex that opened in 1996. It is directly connected to JR Namba Station and is conveniently located within walking distance of multiple lines, including the Osaka Metro, Kintetsu and Hanshin lines, and Nankai lines.
Although it is the largest bus terminal in western Japan, it also houses restaurants, fashion, miscellaneous goods, and service stores, allowing you to complete transportation, shopping, and dining in one place, so it attracts a diverse range of users.It is not only used by travelers and business people, but also by local residents on a daily basis, and it is no exaggeration to say that it is an urban terminal that can be used for a variety of purposes.
Did you know that there is a restaurant within OCAT that is perfect for breakfast? For example, we have a wide variety of shops, including coffee shops that offer great value sets of snacks, salads, and drinks such as coffee, and bakeries that sell fluffy bread that is unique to Japan, as well as bread with a chewy texture.
So, this time we will be introducing in detail two recommended breakfast spots within OCAT, along with their recommended points.
Two recommended breakfast options at OCAT
Italian Tomato Cafe Jr.
Italian Tomato Cafe Jr. , located on the basement floor of OCAT, is a coffee shop chain with locations throughout Japan.
This cafe offers a fun, delicious, modern Italian experience with carefully selected coffee, original drinks, pasta, and homemade fresh cakes.
This store opens at 7:15am, so many people have breakfast here and then go straight to work or head out to Namba or Shinsaibashi for fun.
The morning set, available from opening until 11:00 AM, is especially popular and allows you to order a croque monsieur or hot dog with a soft drink at a great price.
In addition, if you order a drink set with the regular food menu during the morning hours, you can get a discount on the drink. This is a perfect example of the saying, "The early bird catches the worm."
The restaurant is bright and spacious, and some seats even have power outlets. The restaurant is also equipped with the latest smoking separation machines, so even if you're seated near one, you won't smell any cigarette smoke, making it a comfortable space for both smokers and non-smokers.
Come and enjoy a relaxing morning at Italian Tomato Cafe Jr.
Next on our list is ALFHEIM , which also has a store on the basement floor.
ALFHEIM is a bakery that opens early in the morning, opening at 7:00 AM. Inside the store, you'll find a wide selection of freshly baked breads, including French bread, savory bread, and Danish pastries, all handmade by skilled artisans using natural ingredients. During morning hours (from opening until 10:30 AM), you can order a set that includes a soft drink at a discounted price.
They usually only sell takeout, but if you order a soft drink you can eat it at the counter inside the store or on the terrace in front of the store. There is also a microwave next to the register, so you can eat warm bread that is almost like it was made.
The most popular bread at ALFHEIM is the "Quincy." It's a simple bread with cream sandwiched between soft, fluffy white dough, and it comes in several cream flavors. Limited-edition cream flavors are also available depending on the season, but the classic, gentle milk flavor is particularly popular, with many repeat customers.
Additionally, ALFHEIM is the closest restaurant to the ticket gates of JR Namba Station, so it's very convenient to be able to relax in the restaurant and then catch the train to head out the door after your train departs.
The appeal of OCAT is not limited to its restaurants. It is accessible via multiple lines, including the Osaka Metro, Kintetsu and Hanshin lines, and Nankai lines, and is conveniently located for traveling to various destinations.
There is also a shopping mall within the OCAT building, making it convenient for purchasing souvenirs and daily necessities. Multilingual facility guides and floor maps are also available, so even first-time visitors can feel at ease.
The building is barrier-free, allowing easy movement with strollers and wheelchairs. One of the great attractions of the building is that it can be used safely by people traveling with small children or elderly people.
A diverse lineup of tenants where you can enjoy shopping
As mentioned above, there is a wide range of shops catering to both everyday needs and tourists , including fashion, miscellaneous goods, daily necessities, drugstores, and service stores. In particular, the first basement and first floors are lined with a variety of tenants, creating a shopping space that can be enjoyed by people of all ages and genders.
A bus terminal with excellent access
One of OCAT's distinctive features is the large bus terminal on the second floor. Intercity express buses to various locations, including Kansai International Airport and Itami Airport, arrive and depart here, making it a vital gateway to Osaka.
The limousine bus to Kansai International Airport is particularly convenient, and the ability to smoothly transfer from intercity express buses and JR lines within OCAT is a great point for travelers. Long-distance overnight buses to Shikoku, Chugoku, Kyushu, and other regions also depart and arrive at OCAT, making it a very convenient transportation hub .
The facility is also fully equipped with bus ticket vending machines and sales counters, making it easy for foreign tourists and first-time visitors to use the facility with peace of mind.
Please also see here for directions from JR Namba Station to OCAT.
OCAT is the gateway to Osaka
What did you think?
OCAT, a complex located in Namba, Minami, Osaka, is a terminal that boasts excellent accessibility, being directly connected to JR Namba Station. In addition to being a hub for airports and regional cities, it also has a shopping mall suitable for everyday use and sightseeing.
One of the attractive tenants within the facility is a Japanese-style coffee shop and bakery, perfect for breakfast. When you visit OCAT, be sure to check it out to ensure you have a fulfilling morning.
Okayama is home to many beautiful and tasteful historical buildings that were built between the Meiji period (1868-1912) and the Taisho period (1912-1926). Some are elegant, some stately, some exude warmth - the beautiful appearance of each building continues to fascinate us. This time, we visited five of Okayama Prefecture's modern buildings: Renaiss Hall, Okayama Temperance Hall, Hotaru Children's Library, Hakkaku Ensha, and the Former Okayama Kaikōsha. Why not join us in taking a look at the "timeless beauty" that each building speaks of?
Former Bank of Japan Okayama Branch (Renaiss Hall) | A majestic bank building reminiscent of ancient Roman architecture
Renaiss Hall is the former Okayama branch of the Bank of Japan, completed in 1922 (Taisho 11). It was designed by architect Nagano Uheiji, who was known as a leading figure in bank architecture at the time. Today, the building is known as "Renaiss Hall," and is used as a multi-purpose cultural facility for concerts, lectures, weddings, and more.
The impressive, majestic facade is reminiscent of the Maison Carrée in France (an ancient Roman temple) or the Pantheon in Rome. The building uses "entasis columns" (a technique from ancient Greek architecture), where the middle section of the column bulges slightly, and the capitals are decorated with Corinthian-style acanthus leaf motifs (a plant native to the Mediterranean). You can't help but stare at the gorgeous, stately architecture.
Location, access, and holidays
[Renaiss Hall (Okayama, former Bank of Japan Hall)]
Address: 1-6-20 Uchisange , Kita Ward, Okayama City Okayama Prefecture
TEL: 086-225-3003
Closed: Tuesdays (or the following day if Tuesday is a public holiday), New Year's holidays, and maintenance and inspection days
Access by car: Approximately 25 minutes from Okayama IC on the Sanyo Expressway
Access by public transport: Take the streetcar (towards Mount Higashiyama ) from JR Okayama Station for about 10 minutes and get off at "Kencho-dori" stop
Okayama Temperance Hall | A historic building built 100 years ago as a base for the temperance movement
Okayama Temperance Hall Hall is located about a five-minute walk from Renaiss Hall . It was built in 1923 (Taisho 12), but the architect is unknown. Its distinctive exterior features a combination of "German walls," characterized by uneven surfaces created by spraying mortar onto the wall with a special tool, and white tile. It is a three-story wooden building with a hipped roof that slopes in all four directions, and the slate roof (thin sheet roofing material) is treated to create a ragged-gable roof on the third floor. It is a valuable building that survived the Okayama air raids of 1945 ( Showa 20) (air raids during World War II). It was designated a National Registered Tangible Cultural Property in September 2002 (Heisei 14).
This building, with its striking sign reading "Temperance Hall," is the only one of the nation's temperance facilities that dates back to before the war. At the time, social unrest and a worsening economy meant that an increasing number of people were turning to alcohol. For this reason, it was built as a base for the temperance movement (a social movement to abstain from alcohol). In recent years, "sober curious" (a lifestyle that deliberately avoids alcohol) has been gaining attention worldwide. Although times have changed, social unrest and health concerns remain a driving force behind people's reexamination of their drinking habits. The Okayama Temperance Hall, which embraced this theme over 100 years ago, may have been a building that was ahead of its time.
Currently, the first floor houses a bookstore and cafe selling Christian books, while the second and third floors are used as a gallery and offices. The accessory shop on the third floor sells handmade accessories made with materials from Okayama, as well as Temperance Hall merchandise, so be sure to stop by.
Location, access, and holidays
[Okayama Temperance Hall ]
Address: 1-1-15 Marunouchi, Kita-ku, Okayama City, Okayama Prefecture Kita Ward
TEL: 086-222-6297 (Okayama Temperance Hall)
Business hours: 8:00-22:00 *Varies by facility.
Closed: Mondays *Depending on the facility
Access by car: Approximately 20 minutes from Okayama IC on the Sanyo Expressway
Access by public transport: Take the streetcar (towards Mount Higashiyama ) from JR Okayama Station for about 10 minutes and get off at Shiroshita Station
Or, about a 20-minute walk from JR Okayama Station
Hotaru Children's Library| A warm and welcoming library renovated from a Meiji-era elementary school building
"Hotaru Children's Library" was built in 1910 (Meiji 43) in Okayama Prefecture cho, Kumenan Town, Kume District as Akasaka Higher Elementary School (an elementary school at the time). It was designed by architect Egawa Saburohachi, who has worked on many school buildings in Okayama Prefecture. It is a two-story wooden building with a hipped roof, with a single-story building attached to the left. The relief (decorative relief) is the chrysanthemum crest, named after Akasaka Castle, built by Kusunoki Masashige (a military commander from the end of the Kamakura period to the Nanboku-cho period). Incidentally, although it may appear to be the main entrance at first glance, the actual entrance is on the left.
It is currently used as the "Hotaru Children's Library," where children can freely enjoy books. Of course, it is also open to university students and adults. Furnished with antique chairs and hanging chairs (chairs hanging from the ceiling), it is a space that combines the atmosphere of a stylish cafe with elements that will excite children.
One of the highlights inside is the large mural. This is a replica of the mural (on the east side) painted in 1949 by the famous Japanese artist Genichiro Inokuma. It was created in full size by students from Marugame High School, the predecessor to Inokuma's alma mater, for a special exhibition in 2021.
Location, access, and holidays
[Hotaru Children's Library ]
Address: 1434-7 Umaya , Akaiwa City, Okayama Prefecture
TEL: None
Opening hours: Wednesday to Saturday, 11:00 to 16:00
Closed: Sunday to Tuesday, Golden Week, Obon, New Year's holidays, and book sorting periods
Nearest bus stop: Umayashita on the Uno Bus Mimasaka Line
Former Kyokuto Kindergarten Hakkaku Ensha| A rare octagonal kindergarten building in the world
The "Hakkaku Ensha" was the kindergarten attached to Okayama City Asahito Elementary School, completed in 1908 (Meiji 41), and is a nationally designated Important Cultural Property that was relocated and restored to its current location in 1998 (Heisei 10). It was designed by architect Egawa Saburohachi, who also designed the former Akasaka Elementary School, which is home to the "Hotaru Children's Library." It is a valuable building, being the first kindergarten building in Japan to be designated an Important Cultural Property.
The structure is a single-story wooden building with a tiled roof, and is characterized by a plum blossom-shaped floor plan with a regular octagonal playroom in the Chuo and gabled nursery rooms on all four sides. The octagonal shape is rare worldwide, making it a valuable presence in the history of modern Japanese educational architecture. The exterior is a pseudo-Western style (Western-style Japanese architecture) seen in the early Meiji period, with white walls and pink wooden doors and window frames creating a warm and beautiful atmosphere. After being relocated and restored, it is now stocked with picture books and toys, creating a space where children can use it safely while enjoying this historical cultural asset.
Location, access, and holidays
[Hakkaku Ensha]
Address: 56 Futsukaichi-cho, Kita-ku, Okayama Prefecture Okayama City Kita Ward(within the grounds of Okayama City Chuo Library)
TEL: 086-226-2434
Opening hours: 9:30-16:30 (interior tours available until 16:15)
Closed: Mondays, second Sundays, public holidays (if Monday is a public holiday, the following day will also be closed), New Year's holidays (December 28th to January 4th)
Access by car: Approximately 30 minutes from Okayama IC on the Sanyo Expressway. Or approximately 25 minutes from Kimitsu IC on the Okayama Blue Line.
Access by public transport: Take the bus from JR Okayama Station to Okayama Airport (approx. 15 minutes) and get off at "Okayama Minami Eigyosho" bus stop, then walk for approx. 5 minutes
Parking: Okayama City Chuo Library Parking Lot No. 3 (free for up to 90 minutes, 100 yen per hour for any additional minutes)
Former Okayama Kaikōsha(General Ground Club) | An elegant Western-style building used as a social gathering place for army officers
The Former Okayama Kaikōsha was built in 1910 (Meiji 43) as a social gathering place for army officers (senior officers in the former Japanese military). Kaikosha were military clubs established at division (military unit) locations across the country, and were used to deepen friendships among officers as well as for military research and improving their education. Okayama's Kaikosha was also a place where officers from the 17th Division gathered. The building has a hipped roof and a tiled roof, and the front veranda is elegantly supported by Ionic-style (ancient Greek architectural style) columns. As a modern Western-style building representative of the late Meiji period, it is now designated as a Registered Tangible Cultural Property. On the day we visited, an event was being held and the building was bustling with people.
The interior is also gorgeous, with elegant decorations adorning the grounds. Stepping inside, you'll be thrilled by the beautiful space, which exudes the elegance of the Meiji era. It was also used as a filming location for the popular NHK morning drama series "Kumkum Everybody," bringing renewed attention to its classical beauty. It is currently preserved as the Okayama Prefecture General Ground Club (Former Okayama Kaikōsha), and the exterior is open to the public. The first floor houses a cafe, and the second floor houses a training room. The Okayama Prefecture General Ground is also home to the JFE Harenokuni Stadium, home to the Fagiano OKAYAMA team of the J.League (Japan's professional soccer league), and Shigetō Arena Okayama , home to the Okayama Seagulls of the SV League (Japan's professional volleyball league) and Tri-Hoop Okayama of the B.League (Japan's professional basketball league). Stop by after a sporting event.
Location, access, and holidays
[ Former Okayama Kaikōsha (General Ground Club)]
Address: 2-1-4 Izumicho , Kita Ward, Okayama City, Okayama Prefecture Prefecture
TEL: 086-253-3944
Access by car: Approximately 10 minutes from Okayama IC on the Sanyo Expressway
Access by public transport: Approximately 20 minutes on foot from the Athletic Park Exit (West Exit) of JR Okayama Station
Parking: Parking Lot 1 (255 cars), Parking Lot 2 (130 cars), Parking Lot 3 (95 cars) (free for up to 30 minutes, 100 yen per hour for any additional minutes)
This one-day workshop offers a rare chance to learn directly from Natsuki Otake, a popular contemporary artist known for her vivid, pop-style wax-dyed works of girls.
In this 3-hour class, you will:
1️⃣ Draw your own design on fabric2️⃣ Use melted wax with a brush to create resist lines3️⃣ Prepare and apply dyes with water for soft, colorful effects4️⃣ Wash the fabric in hot water to remove the wax5️⃣ Rinse, dry, and reveal your unique creation
Guided carefully in a small group setting, you'll explore both the beauty of color and the quiet rhythm of Japanese craftsmanship.
Venue: somenova (Nihonbashi, Tokyo) Date: Tuesday, October 28⏰ Time: 14:00 – 17:00 Instructor: Natsuki Otake, Wax-Dyeing Artist Limited to a small group – advance reservation required
Natsuki Otake is a well-known Roketsu-zome artist who combines traditional wax-resist dyeing with modern expression.Her colorful and pop-style artworks captivate audiences across Japan.In this workshop, you'll have the rare opportunity to learn directly from her.
1. Anaishi Shrine (Setouchi City): A tranquil seaside shrine with a hidden feel
The first place we'll introduce is Anaishi Shrine in Setouchi City. This shrine is located on a quiet coastline in the southeastern part of the city, and is rarely visited by ordinary tourists, making it a truly "hidden" spot. In a small cove visible through the trees, an old torii gate, exuding a sense of history, stands quietly.
The road to the shrine is very narrow, so we recommend traveling by compact car (kei car in Japan), motorcycle, or electric bicycle. You will need to walk down to the beach at the end. Be careful not to miss the small footpath beside the road.
After descending the zigzag slope, you will arrive at a beautiful beach. This beach is the approach to the shrine, and the pristine coastline is so quiet and refreshing that it will soothe your soul.
The plants create a tropical atmosphere, reminiscent of the coasts of Okinawa and other Nansei Islands. The colorful stones that have washed up on the beach also create a very mystical impression.
The reason there are so many driftwood here is probably because it is a place where things tend to wash up easily. Since ancient times in Japan, there has been a belief that unusual driftwood from the sea is worshipped as a god, so shrines and temples are often built on coasts like this.
The view of the Harima Nada(part of the Seto Naikai) from this beach is both picturesque and majestic. The Ieshima Islands floating faintly offshore look fantastical, like a mirage.
It takes a little time to get there, but it's not too far from Ushimado(a famous tourist spot in Okayama), so we recommend combining your visit with sightseeing in Ushimado.
2. Anaba Inari Shrine (Kurashiki City): A spectacular view of the Seto and a group of red torii gates
Next on our list is a shrine called "Anaba Inari." You can enjoy the mystical sight of a row of red torii gates and a spectacular view of the Seto Naikai . Located in Shimotsui , Kurashiki City , it's easily accessible from the Mt. Washuzan Skyline, so be sure to stop by when sightseeing at the Seto.
The approach to the shrine is quite a steep climb. We recommend wearing comfortable clothing and sneakers, or at least hiking gear. The steep slope is like a cliff, so it may be a bit difficult for those with a fear of heights.
The three torii gates each face in a different direction, giving you the mysterious feeling of being lost in another world.
Most observation spots for the Seto allow you to look up at the bridge from below or down from above, but this is a rare spot where you can see the cars and trains traveling on the bridge from the same height.
It takes a relatively short time to reach the worship hall (the building where you pray), but there is a long and steep climb to the inner sanctuary (the Oku part of the shrine).However, once you have climbed hard and are looking back, you will be rewarded with a spectacular view.
The plaza and parking lot you can see below is Tadotsuura Park, a spectacular spot where you can look up at the gigantic Seto from directly below.
At the top of the climb, you will find the inner shrine of "Anaba Inari," where you will find an adorable Inari (fox god) enshrined within a rock formation that appears to be an iwakura (a huge rock where a god is said to reside).
3. Tatsuchi no Uranimasu Shrine (Kurashiki City): A historic shrine that has also been featured in anime
Just hearing this beautiful name makes you want to visit the shrine to see what it's like.
It is located in Shimotsui , Kurashiki City , on the opposite side of the Seto from Anaba Inari. From here, you can also see the beautiful islands of the Seto Naikai(a beautiful landscape created by the many islands) and the impressive Seto.
In the animated film "Napping Princess: The Story of the Unknown Me," released in 2017, the main characters are set to live in Shimotsui, and the surrounding scenery appears many times throughout the film. The film is set in 2020 and focuses on autonomous driving, with content that seems to foreshadow current technological developments. It is available to watch on video streaming sites, so if you're interested, be sure to check it out.
Beyond the torii gate, the quaint scenery of an old Port town spreads out before you. In the movie, the main character runs down these stairs to the bus stop and weaves his way through the narrow alleys between houses, which is vividly depicted. Mitsuki Takahata, who voices the main character, speaks in the charming Okayama dialect, which makes the Okayama worth watching just for that.
summary
Whenever I come across a scene of the sea and torii gates while traveling, I can't help but stop and stare in awe. It's not just a beautiful sight, but it also moves me to think of the history of the people of that area who have continued to cherish and protect nature and traditions for a long time.
Finally, as a special feature, we will introduce Takashima Shrine in Minami Minami Ward , Okayama City . The shrine is located on Takashima , the most likely site for Kibi Takashima Palace, where Emperor Jimmu, the first emperor of Japan, is said to have lived for eight years, and is located on an isolated island in Kojima . As there are no regular ferries and the shrine faces out to sea, the only way to visit is to charter a boat yourself or to worship from the worship site (a place where you can worship the shrine from afar) on the opposite shore.
However, there is one special way to get there: by taking the ferry bound for Shodoshima , which departs from Okayama Port. From the ferry, you can see the torii gate and shrine building directly in front of you, making for a truly mystical worship experience from the sea. If you're visiting Shodoshima from Okayama Port, be sure not to miss Takashima Shrine.
Visit these hidden shrines and experience the beauty of the Seto Naikai and Japan's ancient religious culture for yourself. It's sure to become an unforgettable memory of your trip.
When planning a trip to Tokyo, many people wonder, "Where should I visit to get a true Tokyo experience?" As one of the world's largest cities, Tokyo has an immense number of attractions, making it difficult to get around efficiently. If you're going to visit, you'll want to make sure you know the classic spots that even first-time visitors can enjoy.
Nintendo TOKYO
Nintendo TOKYO is an official Nintendo store located on the 6th floor of Shibuya Parco . In addition to selling game consoles, software, and limited edition original goods, it is also a much-anticipated hub for fans, hosting demo spaces and events.
Meiji Shrine is a shrine located in Shibuya Ward, Tokyo , and was founded in 1920. The enshrined deities are Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken, and the approximately 700,000 square meter forest is an artificial forest created by planting trees donated from all over the country.
SHIBUYA SKY is an observation facility that stretches 229 meters above the rooftop of Shibuya Scramble Square . It consists of three areas: SKY GATE, which spans the 14th to 45th floors; the open rooftop SKY STAGE; and the indoor observation corridor SKY GALLERY on the 46th floor, from which you can enjoy a grand panoramic view of Tokyo.
BiKN shibuya is a showcase festival held in Shibuya since 2023, with the aim of "bringing new Asian music to the world." It brings together notable artists from Taiwan, Korea, the Philippines, Malaysia, and more, realizing musical exchange across borders alongside talented Japanese artists.
SHIBUYA109 is a symbol of Shibuya that opened in 1979, and is a fashion building that houses approximately 120 shops aimed at women in their teens and twenties.
Takeshita Street Shopping District, which stretches for about 350 meters from Harajuku Station, is officially called the Harajuku Takeshita Street Shopping District and is a spot that symbolizes Harajuku culture . It is popular with foreign visitors tourists as an area that condenses youth trends, with gourmet food like crepes to eat on the go, pop and colorful fashion items, photo booths, and character shops.
ZAKURO SHOW is a live performance featuring Japanese instruments, featuring performances by top Japanese musicians who are highly acclaimed both in Japan and overseas, using the koto, shakuhachi, shamisen, 17-stringed instrument, and taiko drums . The program is wide-ranging, from classical pieces to contemporary music and Western covers, allowing you to experience the power and healing power of Japanese instruments with all five senses.
Not just Tokyo and Kyoto! Your next travel destination is Kyushu
For many travelers visiting Japan, Tokyo and Kyoto come to mind, but in recent years, Kyushu, located southwest of Tokyo and just an hour by plane, has been gaining attention as a new travel destination.
Kyushu has so many famous hot springs that it is called the "hot spring kingdom," and some of Japan's leading hot spring resorts are scattered throughout the region, from Saga/ Ureshino and Oita/ Beppu in the north to Kagoshima/ Ibusuki in the south. Additionally, each prefecture is close to a port town, where you can enjoy fresh seafood such as sushi, sashimi, and local cuisine at a more affordable price than in the city, making it an attractive destination for gourmet travelers. Furthermore, Kyushu has strong ties to world-famous anime, with the locations of series such as "One Piece," "Attack on Titan," and "Natsume's Book of Friends" scattered throughout the region, making it a popular destination for travelers who are interested in anime culture.
Ohata Station (Kumamoto), featured in Natsume's Book of Friends (Courtesy of the Kumamoto Prefecture Tourism Federation)
Another attraction is the ease of travel. The Shinkansen bullet train runs north and south, allowing for smooth travel between major cities. By renting a car or using the JR Kyushu sightseeing train, you can freely visit hot spring resorts and small towns in the mountains, and multi-day road trips around Kyushu are also popular.
Deep and warm travel memories that are a little different from those of Tokyo or Kyoto. Kyushu is sure to have a special experience that will stay in your heart.
▼If you're looking for a base for your Kyushu trip, we recommend JR KYUSHU HOTEL Blossom Hakata Chuo!
To enjoy Kyushu even more: A comfortable trip starting from Hakata
Kyushu is a region overflowing with diverse attractions, including nature, history, culture, and cuisine. Fukuoka /Hakata, its gateway, combines easy access with a lively atmosphere, making it the perfect starting point for your trip.
And the JR KYUSHU HOTEL Blossom Hakata Chuo will make your stay in Fukuoka /Hakata even more comfortable and special. In addition to its convenient location near the station, the hotel offers sophisticated guest rooms, a breakfast featuring seasonal Kyushu ingredients, and comfortable hospitality, making it a safe choice as a base for your trip.
You can enjoy the charm of Hakata by sightseeing in the city, or you can go a little further and take a short trip to various parts of Kyushu. With so much freedom in how you spend your time, you can make your own travel style come true.
Kyushu is a place where you can discover something new every time you visit. Please use JR KYUSHU HOTEL Blossom Hakata Chuo as your base and enjoy your trip to Kyushu to your heart's content.
Sakura at Maizuru Park (Photo courtesy of Fukuoka City)
As autumn approaches, Toyosu is bringing both sweets and trends this year. Éclat des Jours, a popular patisserie in LaLaport Toyosu 1, is introducing adorable baked goods just for Halloween. And on October 24th and 25th, TikTok will be holding its first major event in Japan, "TikTok Autumn Fest." Why not experience a heart-melting autumn in Toyosu, enveloped in the sweet aromas and excitement of the city?
Experience a special thrill in Toyosu in the fall.
During this season, the showcase of Éclat des Jours is lined with baked goods in Halloween-themed packaging. The small boxes, tagged with ghosts and black cats, are filled with madeleines, financiers, and other treats that have a gentle autumnal aroma and sweetness.
The cute appearance will make your heart leap, and the moment you open the bag, the aroma of butter will hit you. With just one bite, the luxurious taste will make you feel like autumn is spreading in your mouth. The cute packaging makes it perfect as a gift or souvenir.
Please check out our Instagram where we regularly introduce our standard products and seasonal cakes.
Also in Toyosu, TikTok presents the "#MeloAutumn" experience
Along with Éclat des Jours, there's another popular event that will brighten up Toyosu this autumn. TikTok Autumn Fest is a large-scale offline event being held in Japan for the first time by TikTok and TikTok for Business. Held over two days, on Friday, October 24th and Saturday, October 25th, 2025, at Urban Dock LaLaport Toyosu 1, this event will allow visitors to experience the trends and culture emerging on TikTok in real life.
The theme is "#MeloAutumn".
With the motto of "fall in love with autumn ," popular creators on TikTok and luxury brands have come together to offer a wealth of content to enjoy with all five senses, including food, art, music, sports, and reading.
Autumn food produced by popular creators
This year's festival will feature many of TikTok's most popular creators, including Ayannu, who is popular for his food ASMR, Wolf, who is known for his buzz gourmet food, and Omurice Onii-san , who will definitely stimulate your autumn appetite.
At the food truck,
Ayannu x "PUG": A collaboration with an American cookie specialty store. A pop-style dessert that's sure to look great on social media.
Wolf x "Bread and Espresso": Event-exclusive crepes made by a popular bakery in Omotesando.
Omurice Brother's "Pakkan Omurice": Experience the moment when a runny egg is cracked right before your eyes! It's a lively experience.
In addition, the popular Korean cafe "fave COFFEE" will be making its first appearance in Japan (in collaboration with Uzamimi). Popular stores from around Japan, such as the long-established takoyaki shop "Creole" from Dotonbori and the Okinawan taco specialty shop "Blue Entrance Kitchen," will be gathering in Toyosu.
A creative autumn for enjoying art and photos
In addition to food, there is also a wide variety of art, music and photo spots.
One of the highlights is the gigantic live painting by TikTok creator Miiruka. This performance, which takes two days to complete a work on a canvas approximately 180cm high, is a must-see.
Furthermore, the central entrance will feature a number of photogenic installations, with designs that look picturesque no matter where you look, creating a space that will naturally make visitors want to point their cameras at them.
Not only the art, but also the music and lighting are synchronized, transforming the stage into a fantastical autumn night as the sun sets. The world you saw on TikTok is recreated with realistic light and sound - you can experience an immersive experience.
Luxury brands appear one after another
This event will be sponsored by well-known companies such as Shueisha, Unilever, Suntory, L'Oreal, and Life Card.
Shueisha: Recreate dishes that appear in popular manga at the "Akiman!! 2025" linked booth "Manpuku Meshi!"
Unilever: New product experiences with Dove and Lux.
Suntory: Get a sneak peek at the November release of "Oolong Milk Tea"!
L'Oreal: Sampling popular cosmetics such as Maybelline and Shu Uemura.
Life Card: A photo booth will be set up for visitors to enjoy.
The appeal of this festival is that you can "experience" the brands you've known about on social media using all five senses: smell, touch, taste, etc. The experience of that day is then shared on TikTok the next day - a new form of marketing that moves back and forth between the real world and the digital world is here.
Event Overview
・Dates: Friday, October 24th and Saturday, October 25th, 2025
・Event time: Friday, 24th: 13:00-19:00 *Scheduled
25th (Sat): 11:00-17:00 *Scheduled
Venue: Urban Dock LaLaport Toyosu 1 (2-4-9 Toyosu, Koto-ku, Tokyo)
Food stalls: 1F Seaside Deck (outdoor courtyard)
Giant Live Painting: 1F Northport Event Space
・Free admission
・Payment methods at food stalls: Credit card, QR code payment, transportation IC, etc. (cash not accepted)
If you're looking for a moment of calm after stimulating your senses at the lively TikTok Autumn Fest, head to Éclat des Jours. Take a break with cake and coffee while admiring the view of Toyosu at dusk outside the window. Even just looking at the cute Halloween-exclusive packaging will help you relax and unwind.
Hotel Noum OSAKA is a city where you can feel nature. The River View King Room features large windows, allowing you to enjoy a variety of views throughout the day.
Read more
Midosuji illuminations
Approximately 4km of illuminations will decorate Osaka's symbolic street, Midosuji. The lights will be turned on in 2025 to coincide with the opening of the Osaka-Kansai Expo, allowing visitors to see the vibrant colors.
--------------------------------------------
Venue: Midosuji (Hanshinmae intersection to Namba West Exit intersection)
Schedule: Until December 31, 2025
[Umeda] UMEDA SKY BUILDING Christmas 2025
The Christmas market will be held in the plaza on the first floor of Umeda Sky Building. A huge tree measuring approximately 25 meters in height and covered with approximately 130,000 LED lights will be set up inside the venue, creating a Christmas atmosphere.
--------------------------------------------
Venue: Umeda Sky Building 1F Plaza/Wonder Square
Dates: November 14th to December 25th, 2025
Admission fee: Free
[Tenmabashi - Nakanoshima Island Park] Winter Water City Osaka Week Nakanoshima Island EAST Waterfront Walk 2025
Enjoy the illuminations along the river from Temmabashi to Tenjinbashi. Part of Nakanoshima Island Park is lit up in the shape of a boat, and the light reflected on the water create a fantastical atmosphere.
--------------------------------------------
Venue: Tenmabashi Hachikenyahama and Nakanoshima Island Park
Date: Until January 31, 2026
[Sakurajima] Universal Christmas Joy
Universal Studios Japan, a popular theme park in Osaka, will be kicking off its Christmas event on November 19th! There will be decorations, special shows, and food menus that are perfect for this time of year.
--------------------------------------------
Venue: Universal Studios Japan
Dates: November 19, 2025 - January 4, 2026
Admission fee: Adults from ¥8,900, children from ¥5,700, etc.
*Prices vary depending on the admission date
[Tennoji] Christmas Market in Osaka Tenshiba 2025
This Christmas market is held right next to Tennoji Zoo, the Osaka Municipal Museum of Fine Arts, Abeno Harukas, and more. It is lined with gourmet food, sweets, and Christmas goods.
--------------------------------------------
Venue: Tennoji Park Tenshiba/Tenshiba i:na
Dates: November 28th to December 25th, 2025
Admission fee: Free
Click here for information about the area around "Hotel Noum OSAKA"!
Kanayama Shrine in Kawasaki is a uniquely vibrant shrine known for its famous "Kanamara" festival held every April. This lively festival prays for fertility, safe childbirth, and protection from illness, and features a colorful parade led by a symbolic phallic-shaped portable shrine.
Kanayama Shrine warmly welcomes visitors to a place where deep tradition and inclusive spirit come together in a rare harmony. Located near Kawasaki Daishi, the shrine is a must-see cultural experience that connects Japan's rich spiritual heritage and vibrant local culture.
Tour
Schedule: Saturday or Sunday from 9am or 10am
Duration: Approximately 3 hours
Schedule
1. Wear traditional Shinto clothing.
2. Participate in formal worship in the inner palace where the sacred object of worship, shaped like the phallus of the shrine, is enshrined.
3. The Shinto priest will provide in-depth knowledge about the history of the shrine's sacred objects of worship.
4. Wear Shinto clothing and take photos with the sacred objects of worship at the shrine.
* There are the following restrictions on wearing costumes: Height - Men over 150 cm, Women over 120 cm Weight - Less than 120 kg
What is included in the tour?
・Priest or shrine maiden costume
・Interpretation by a nationally certified English guide
What is not included in the tour?
・Meal and first offering fees of 5,000 yen per person must be paid directly to the shrine. ・Transportation expenses
*Hatsuhōryō is a traditional Shinto offering made directly to a shrine to show respect and gratitude to the gods.
Meeting point
Kawasaki Daishi Station: 5 minutes from Keikyu Kawasaki Station to the Daishi Line.
In front of Daishi Station, 1-18 Kawasaki-ku, Kawasaki City, 210-0802
End point
Kanayama Shrine ⛩
2-1316 Daishi Station, Kawasaki-ku, Kawasaki City, Kanagawa Prefecture, 210-0802
Autumn is the season when seas of clouds are more likely to appear over Takeda ruins
Takeda Castle Ruins is most likely to be covered in sea of clouds from late September to the end of November.
The best time to see it is if you arrive at Takeda Castle Ruins at Hinode in the early morning (around 6:00 AM).
I hope that by reading this article, you will learn more about Takeda Castle ruins and the sea of clouds.
Conditions for the occurrence of a sea of clouds
It occurs mainly in the early morning on a clear day.
Conditions include a temperature difference of 10 degrees or more from the previous day and weak winds.
The probability is higher if a dense fog warning is issued for Asago City on the day.
Asabura's Sea of Clouds Forecast takes into account temperature and other conditions and predicts whether a sea of clouds will appear early the next morning.
Please also refer to this. (Updated every day at 4pm)
Viewing hours (reception hours at the fee collection building)
5:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Time allowed for each trail (when climbing the castle)
Gate of the West Trail (the trail from "Yamashiro no Sato (marked as A on the access map)"): Open from 4:30 AM to 4:30 PM
Gates for the trail behind the station, the Omotemai Shrine trail, and the South trail (the trail from the parking lot near National Route 312 (shown as "B1, B2, C1" on the access map)): Open from 5:00 AM to 4:30 PM (However, please note that if you pass through the gate for the South trail at 4:30 PM, you will not make it in time for the closing time if you descend the mountain via the South trail after ascending and viewing the castle.)
*The access map is at the bottom of the page.
Final closing time for each trail (when descending)
West Trail (Yamashiro no Sato) closes at 6:30 PM
The trails behind the station, Omotemai Shrine trail, and South trail close at 6:00 PM.
How to climb the Takeda Castle ruins
・Approximately 40 minutes on the west hiking trail from the tourist facility "Yamashiro no Sato" parking lot (A)
・From Takeda Castle Ruins/Ritsuunkyo Parking Lot (B1) or Takeda Castle Town Tourist Parking Lot (B2), take the trail behind Takeda Station or the Omotemai Shrine trail for about 40 minutes, or the south trail for about 60 minutes.
On all days in September, October, and December, and on weekdays in November, during the early morning hours when the sea of clouds is most likely to appear, you will need to walk approximately 40 to 50 minutes from the parking lot, regardless of the route you take.
*Please note that the "Early Morning Sea of Clouds Bus" operates on weekends and holidays in November, during the early morning hours when the sea of clouds is most likely to appear.
For more information about the early morning sea of clouds bus, please see this page. (External link: Zentan Bus website)
West Trail : This is the trail to take if you start climbing the castle from the parking lot at the tourist facility "Yamashiro no Sato."
The trail is paved with asphalt and is easy to climb.
It is 2.3km from the parking lot to the toll gate and takes about 40 minutes. If you take the Unkai bus or taxi, it is 1km from the boarding point halfway up the mountain and takes about 20 minutes.
Hiking trail behind the station : A hiking trail located behind JR Takeda Station.
The trail is untouched and can be quite steep. There are signs pointing out the path.
It is 900m from the trailhead to the toll booth and takes about 40 minutes.
Omome Shrine Hiking Trail : A hiking trail that passes through Omome Shrine on Takeda Teramachi Street.
There are 460 steps and it is a very steep mountain path.
It takes about 40 minutes and is 1.2 km from the trailhead to the toll gate.
South Trail : A trail south of Takeda Teramachi Street.
The road is paved with asphalt, so please be careful as Unkai buses and taxis will be coming down from ahead.
It is 2.1km from the trailhead to the toll gate and takes about an hour.
Access Map
What to wear and bring when climbing the castle early in the morning
Even if you take a reserved taxi or the Unkai bus that runs early in the morning on Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays in November, you will still need to walk the 900 meters from the "Taxi Pick-up/Drop-off Point/ Takeda Castle Ruins Bus Stop" on the mountainside to the castle ruins entrance (toll collection building).
There are stairs and uneven terrain within the castle ruins, so please wear comfortable clothing that is easy to walk in, such as sneakers. Other necessary items are listed below.
Flashlight: Takeda and Ritsuunkyo Gorge are not equipped with electric lights. This is something you will never forget.
Raincoat: The sea of clouds is a mass of water vapor, so you need a raincoat to avoid getting soaked by being enveloped in the clouds.
Cold weather gear: This is more likely to occur when the mornings are very cold, and temperatures at the summit can drop below zero, so cold weather gear is essential.
Drinking water: You will sweat as you walk, so please bring warm drinks with you if possible. Water cannot be purchased at the summit.
Bells/Radios: We recommend making noise while walking to avoid encountering wild animals.
Recent sea of clouds photos
For information on access to Asago City, click here
According to legend, when Emperor Jimmu (known as Kamuyamato Iwarehiko no Mikoto before ascending to the throne) was on his eastern expedition, he received the heavenly sword "Futsunomitama" from Takakuraji, the son of Kumano's ancestral deity.
With this sword, he overcame adversity and eventually triumphed in battle in the Yamato Province (present-day Nara Prefecture)
Later around 33 BCE, three moons descended upon a sandbank in the Kumano River called "Oyunohara". One proclaimed, "I am Shōjō Daigongen (Ketumi Mikogami = Susanoo-no-Mikoto), and the two moons beside me are Ryōsho Gongen (Kumano Fusumi no Ōkami and Hayatama no Ōkami). Build a shrine and enshrine us." This divine command led to the construction of the first Kumano Hongu Taisha shrine.
As time passed, around the 4th century (estimated), descendants of the Takakuraji assumed the role of Kumano Kokuzō, the chief of the Kumano province. From then on, the deities of Kumano Hongu Taisha were worshipped and protected by the Kokuzō family for over a thousand years. The twelve enshrined deities are divided among three shrines: Upper, Middle, and Lower.
However, the original shrine buildings at Oyunohara were damaged by a major flood in 1889 (Meiji 22), and the upper four shrines were relocated to their current elevated site. The remaining eight shrines are still quietly enshrined at the original site as stone altars.
Held in Spring, this is the shrine's most important festival. Over three-days, sacred rituals and lively processions take place.
Kumano Hongu Taisha Grand Festival (April 13-15)
This spring festival is the most important festival at Kumano Motomiya Shrine, and is a three-day event featuring sacred ceremonies and lively processions.
It begins on April 13, with the Yunobori Ritual and Miyawatashi Ritual, where priests and children dressed as sacred messengers walk the ancient mountain path known as "Ōnichi-goe" towards Oyunohara. Along the way, they purify themselves and pray for the safety and peace of the festival. The children, considered as divine messengers, are carried on shoulders, creating a warm and sacred place.
On April 14, various prayer ceremonies and a vigil are held, leading up to the main festival on April 15.
During the Main Shrine Ritual on April 15, the virtues of the principal deity Kumano Fusumi no Kami are honored, and prayers are offered for national peace and the well-being of the people. This is followed by the Procession Ritual, where the deity's sacred object is placed in a portable shrine and transferred to Oyunohara.
At the original site, performances of dance and music take place, and the festival reaches its most vibrant state.
In the latter half of the Procession Ritual, ascetic monks perform the fire rituals and mochi throwing. The mochi come in white and red varieties, and those who catch a red mochi receive a "Chōbana".
The "Chōbana" is a decorative flower resembling a chrysanthemum and is considered a lucky charm symbolizing bountiful harvests and good health. The festive moment leaves a lasting impression on participants.
Although not hosted by the Kumano Hongu Taisha itself, this event is organized by Hongu Town, and held at the sacred site of Oyunohara, with the shrine's cooperation. Featuring fire, drums, and fireworks, it creates a powerful and mystical atmosphere that captivates many attendees each autumn. *In 2025, the event will be held on Saturday, October 11th from 5:00 PM
Inspired by the legend of the Yatagarasu, the sacred crow that guided Emperor Jimmu when he was lost in the mountains of Kumano, this festival is said to "Guide the people to Happiness".
After visiting Kumano Hongu Taisha, be sure to also visit the Kumano Hayatama Taisha, Kumano Nachi Taisha, and Seiganto-ji to complete the pilgrimage to the Three Grand Shrines of Kumano.
By walking the Kumano Kodo, a path travelled by countless pilgrims since ancient times, you'll experience Kumano not just as a tourist destination, but as a land of spiritual rebirth.
[Route] Kintetsu Nagoya Station → Kintetsu Yokkaichi Station (transfer) → Kintetsu Yunoyama Onsen Station Fare: 1,030 yen for adults, 520 yen for children
1. From Kintetsu Nagoya Station, take the train to Kintetsu Yokkaichi Station . It only goes in one direction, so you won't get lost. We recommend takingthe express train ! An additional fare (520 yen) is required to travel from Kintetsu Nagoya Station to Yokkaichi Station on the Kintetsu Limited Express. The express train has no additional fare and takes just 33 minutes, so it's not much different from the limited express train. Semi-express and local trains take longer.
2. Get off at Kintetsu Yokkaichi Station, transfer to the Yunoyama Line, and head to the last stop , Yunoyama Onsen Station . The Yunoyama Line is on platforms 5 and 6.The journey takes 26 minutes.
3. Once you arrive at Kintetsu Yunoyama Onsen Station, take the Mie Kotsu bus from bus stop number 1 to "Yunoyama Onsen Gozaisho Ropeway Front . " The journey takes 10 minutes and costs 460 yen .
④ Once you get off at Mie Kotsu's "Yunoyama Onsen Gozaisho Ropeway," you'll see the Gozaisho Ropeway, one of Japan's largest ropeways, stretching over Mount Gozaisho. The impressive scale of the ropeway and the historical and atmospheric "Yunoyama Onsen Town" will also lift your spirits on your journey. The ropeway ride takes 15 minutes, so while it's understandable you want to get on quickly, it's best to use the restroom first.
It was easy, right?
In front of the Gozaisho Ropeway at Yunoyama Onsen
Osaka, with its bustling streets and rich food culture, is a popular destination for both domestic and international travelers. Tourist attractions and shopping areas are compactly located, and it's easy to get around by train or subway.
With so many accommodation options in Osaka, it can be difficult to decide where to stay. Choosing a hotel that aligns with your sightseeing route and the purpose of your trip can make your stay more comfortable and significantly enhance your overall travel experience.
In this article, we will introduce recommended hotels in each popular area.
Shinsaibashi: A Prime Shopping Area
Shinsaibashi is a popular shopping spot located in the center of Osaka. You can enjoy just walking around the city, visiting the brand shops and cafes of Shinsaibashi Shopping Street and America-mura, the epicenter of youth culture.
Hotels in this area are close to the station and are convenient for transportation, and are recommended for those who want to enjoy sightseeing and shopping to the fullest in the city center.
It is a 4-minute walk from Osaka Metro Shinsaibashi Station and a 10-minute walk from Dotonbori, making it an excellent location for sightseeing and shopping.
There are two types of guest rooms available, double and twin rooms, which are primarily for two people. These simple and compact rooms are perfect for couples or friends.
The hotel is equipped with facilities such as a self-baggage room, coin laundry, and microwave, as well as a cafe space on the first floor. Another great feature is that free coffee, tea, and soup are available exclusively to guests.
Oriental Express Osaka Shinsaibashi is simple yet equipped with everything you need, making it a comfortable base for sightseeing. If you're staying near Shinsaibashi Station, be sure to check it out.
Namba: A Gourmet Paradise at Dotonbori & Kuromon Market
Namba has many attractions, such as the neon lights of Dotonbori and the Glico sign, the fresh seafood at Kuromon Market, and gourmet food to eat on the go. You can enjoy walking around the city while sampling popular Osaka delicacies such as takoyaki, okonomiyaki, and kushikatsu.
Many hotels in Namba are conveniently located for sightseeing and travel, making it an ideal area for first-time visitors to Osaka, families, and friends traveling together.
Located in the heart of Namba, Namba Oriental Hotel offers excellent access to Dotonbori, Kuromon Market, Namba Parks, and more.
There are a Toyotomi of room types, including twin, double, and even triple rooms, making it suitable for families traveling with two or more people. There are also residential floors equipped with kitchens and washer-dryers, making long-term stays a breeze.
The hotel also has two lounges that guests can use free of charge. The welcome lounge offers a drink bar, including alcohol, and light snacks, while the laundry lounge allows you to relax with a cup of coffee and a game of chess or a table game between washes. These are spaces where you can relax, just like your own living room.
This hotel is perfect for those who want to enjoy sightseeing to the fullest while also relaxing during their stay.
Holiday Inn Osaka Namba boasts excellent access, just a 6-minute walk from Namba Station on all train lines, making it a hotel where you can fully enjoy the energetic atmosphere of Osaka.
The hotel offers a variety of room types, with a focus on rooms with friendly and reassuring colors, and a full range of amenities. Many rooms can accommodate triple occupancy, making it ideal for groups and families. The hotel also has a restaurant that is open all day, where you can enjoy a varied Japanese and Western buffet in the morning, and authentic Italian cuisine for lunch and dinner.
Find the Perfect Osaka Hotel for a Comfortable Stay
Osaka has a variety of hotels to choose from depending on your purpose of stay, whether that be sightseeing, shopping, or visiting theme parks.
Each hotel will support your comfortable stay, whether you're looking to stroll around town or shop in Shinsaibashi, eat your way around Namba or enjoy sightseeing, or enjoy the theme parks at Universal City.
Choose a hotel from the ones introduced in this article that suits your travel style and enjoy a memorable trip to Osaka.
A Stunning Autumn View in Japan: Easily Accessible from Nagoya & Osaka
Yunoyama Onsen, the starting point of the Gozaisho Ropeway, is located 400m above sea level, so it is a little cool.
If you take the ropeway to Mt. Gozaisho, which is 1,212 meters above sea level, you will be in the early autumn season. The clear autumn air makes for a wonderful view, and you can see the Alps in the distance from the beautiful cityscape of Mie Prefecture.
You can enjoy a spectacular panoramic view from the summit, and the mountain park has plenty to offer, including a restaurant with a great view, a sightseeing lift, and walking trails.
The ropeway fare is 2,600 yen round trip for adults, 1,300 yen round trip for children, and free for children aged 1 to 3. *Children aged 13 and over are charged the adult fare.
Autumn foliage at Mt. Gozaisho appears from late October to mid-November. The area from Ropeway Sanjo Park Station to mid-mountain is highly recommended. In late October, the leaves on the rock faces near Sanjo Park Station are spectacular, and by November, the valley around Tower No. 6 transforms into a breathtaking, woodblock-print-like scene.
However, it will be very crowded during this period, so we recommend going on a weekday. Also, if you use public transportation on weekends and holidays, you will not have to wait in line in traffic jams, so we recommend using trains and buses during this period.
2. The crimson-colored mountain park
Around October 20th every year, the azalea leaves at Summit Park reach their peak of autumn color. The mountaintop is particularly home to a large number of plants of the Ericaceae family, including red azaleas, white azaleas, and Enkianthus campanulata, and when the azalea leaves turn red in autumn, the world becomes a deep crimson red. The autumn color phenomenon occurs when the daytime temperature is low and the nights drop suddenly, causing the production of anthocyanin pigments, which turn the leaves a vibrant red. Because the temperature is lower at the top of the mountain than at the base, the leaves can be seen turning autumn earlier.
3. Take a leisurely stroll through the autumn leaves on a sightseeing lift
Beautiful azalea colonies line the sightseeing lift, allowing you to enjoy autumn foliage during the ride. The lift connects Ropeway Sanjo Park Station to the summit of Mt. Gozaisho, covering 500 m in about 8 minutes. One-way fares are 400 yen, and round-trip fares are 700 yen, with the same price for adults and children aged 4 and over. The lift consists of single-seater cabins.
*For safety reasons, please refrain from carrying children on board.
Must-try Delicious Local Gourmet
At Mount Gozaisho Summit Park, there is a restaurant called "Nature" with a magnificent view, where you can enjoy the famous "Gozaisho Curry Udon" as well as seasonal menus and sweets. How about enjoying a meal or cafe time while taking in the magnificent view?
A new photogenic spot, COCORRU Terrace, will open at Mount Gozaisho Summit Park on October 31, 2025. The terrace offers beautiful views of the Ise-Shima area in Mie Prefecture, and will also feature a spectacular swing for thrills and panoramic views. Take your time to enjoy the scenery and fully enjoy Gozaisho at this new photogenic spot.
Special Lantern Event at Gozaisho Ropeway
Sky Lantern Festival to be held in December 2024
A lantern event will be held on Saturday, October 18, 2025, at the parking lot at the base of the Gozaisho Ropeway.
Why not let it float gently as you think of the autumn night sky over Mt. Gozaisho?
Experience Autumn Foliage & Relax at Secret Yunoyama Hot Springs
Yunoyama Onsen was founded 1,300 years ago. It is also known as "Deer's Hot Spring" because a wounded deer once healed in the hot springs, and the rich spring waters moisturize the skin. If you are staying in Mie Prefecture, why not try the rich spring waters of Yunoyama Onsen?
Yunoyama Onsen, located at the foot of the Gozaisho Ropeway, turns into a fantastical world in late November as the maple trees along the clear stream turn beautiful colors.
Saikoyo is conveniently located just a 200 m walk from the Yunoyama Onsen Gozaisho Ropeway bus stop. The hotel’s exterior resembles a Western-style castle, but there are no guards—friendly, energetic staff greet every guest. Throughout the year, the staff host various events to welcome visitors, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. Guests often leave with a desire to return.
How to Access Gozaisho Ropeway from Nagoya & Osaka
[Kintetsu Railway] : Whether you're coming from Nagoya or Osaka, head to Kintetsu Yokkaichi Station first.
Get off at Kintetsu Yokkaichi Station , transfer to the Yunoyama Line, and head to the last stop, Yunoyama Onsen Station . For Kintetsu trains, we recommend using the Kintetsu Rail Pass, which offers great savings.
[Mie Kotsu Bus] : Take the bus from Yunoyama Onsen Station bound for "Yunoyama Onsen Gozaisho Ropeway Mae." The journey takes 10 minutes.
Login
