Sanyo-so: Experience Nature and Japanese Culture in Izu
Picture courtesy of Sanyo-so
Located on the Izu Peninsula, Sanyo-so is a luxury ryokan known for its vast Japanese garden inspired by the landscapes of Kyoto. It's an ideal retreat for those looking to experience Japan's beautiful nature and hot springs.
Sanyo-so offers a variety of accommodation plans that let guests enjoy the changing seasons or take part in cultural events and activities on-site. These experiences provide a deeper look into Japanese culture.
Below, we introduce accommodation plans that feature nature- and season-related events and activities.
One of Sanyo-so's main attractions is its beautiful Japanese garden, which was designed in the late 1920s by Ogawa Jihei, a master garden landscaper from Kyoto. This shakkei-style garden skillfully recreates a sprawling landscape in miniature.
Shakkei, or "borrowed scenery," is a technique that integrates distant landscapes into the garden's design to create a more expansive view. At Sanyo-so, the mountain range to the east is incorporated into the garden, designed to resemble Kyoto's Higashiyama mountains.
With its pond, streams, small bridges, and stone lanterns, the garden's layout is meticulously crafted to evoke the atmosphere of Kyoto, offering guests a feeling of traveling to the ancient capital.
Picture courtesy of Sanyo-so
The garden offers seasonal beauty throughout the year, making each visit unique. In spring, it comes alive with plum and cherry blossoms, while early summer brings fresh greenery, creating relaxing strolls through the dappled sunlight.
During the summer, the garden is filled with the sound of cicadas, and an evening walk among the lantern lights becomes an unforgettable experience.
Autumn offers the sound of crickets and the stunning red foliage of maple trees—a sight best enjoyed at leisure, away from the crowds.
Even in winter, the garden is beautiful, with its many evergreen trees and camellia bushes, and the crisp air invites long, refreshing walks.
Autumn Stays: Stunning Foliage Coloring the Garden
Picture courtesy of Sanyo-so
As autumn deepens, the expansive garden of Sanyo-so is wrapped in vividly colored foliage like a brocade picture. From mid-November to early December, you can enjoy the beautiful gradients woven by various trees with every stroll.
The clear blue of the sky reflected in the pond, the white spray of the waterfall, and the deep green of the moss—each color overlaps to create a breathtaking sight.
Sanyo-so's chefs incorporate the rich harvest unique to this season in cuisine, offering Kaiseki courses that mirror the autumn colors. Through all five senses, you can savor the deepening of autumn.
Picture courtesy of Sanyo-so
In the mild, pleasant autumn weather, Sanyo-so holds special events.
For example, in early October, there was “Moonlit Melodies: Jazz Night at Sanyo-so,” held to coincide with the mid‑autumn full moon.
Set against the main building—a nationally registered tangible cultural property—jazz performed in the garden was especially moving. With a drink in hand, guests were swept away by the music in an unforgettable evening.
Sanyo-so also holds seasonal exhibitions and events throughout the year. Alongside the garden’s changing scenery through the four seasons, please keep an eye out for the latest event announcements.
In the deepening cold, we recommend a special accommodation plan themed around luxurious winter retreats, where you can fully enjoy Japan’s unique winter warmth and flavors.
This plan is available in the new wing’s guest suites. The rooms are furnished with kotatsu (table heaters), allowing you to spend a leisurely winter moment wrapped in traditional warmth.
Picture courtesy of Sanyo-so
Your stay begins with a treat: the luxurious Tenku no Matcha® Fondue served at the kotatsu (table heater). Dip marshmallows and fruit into warm matcha‑flavored chocolate — a winter-only sweet experience that warms both heart and body.
*Image for illustration purposes. Pictures courtesy of Sanyo-so
At dinner, you'll enjoy the Rikyu Course in the comfort of your room.
This refined Kaiseki meal is prepared with great care by the head chef, placing seasonal ingredients center stage to express the changing of the four seasons.
With delicate techniques that draw out each ingredient’s natural flavors, visually beautiful presentation, enticing aromas, and pleasant textures, this Kaiseki course delivers a blissful experience to be enjoyed with all five senses.
Sanyo-so’s large public bath. Picture courtesy of Sanyo-so
The true pleasure of a winter stay is, without a doubt, the hot spring baths. Soaking while gazing over the garden offers a blissful moment that warms you to your core.
Enjoy Sanyo-so’s exceptional onsen water to your heart’s content in the room's private flowing hot-spring baths, the charming large public bath, and the open-air rotenburo.
Spring and Summer Stays: Charm That Shouldn't Be Missed!
Picture courtesy of Sanyo-so
In spring, accommodation plans themed around the garden’s cherry blossoms and azaleas are offered. These are usually announced on the official website around January each year, so if you’re considering a spring stay, be sure to check for them.
Picture courtesy of Sanyo-so
When it comes to summer, festivals, fireworks, and the experience of sitting on the engawa (veranda) while fanning yourself with a uchiwa to cool off are indispensable in Japan.
Sanyo-so also offers special accommodation plans that let you experience that quintessential summer scenery. Details are scheduled to be announced on the official website around April. If you are planning a summer holiday in Japan, don’t miss them.
Geisha Entertainment and Other Cultural Activities
Picture courtesy of Sanyo-so
For guests who want a firsthand experience of Japanese culture, Sanyo-so offers an accommodation plan that includes traditional geisha entertainment.
Izu Nagaoka Onsen, a historic hot spring resort, has a long-established geisha culture. The geiko performers are often invited to perform dances at local ryokan and also hold public performances at cultural centers in town.
Sanyo-so offers an exclusive accommodation plan that includes a seasonal kaiseki dinner course along with Ozashiki-asobi, a traditional form of geisha entertainment. This is a unique opportunity to interact with the geisha and appreciate their skills in dance, music, and entertainment.
Picture courtesy of Sanyo-so
Sanyo-so also offers other opportunities to experience traditional Japanese culture, such as occasional Bunraku puppet theater performances on the stage of its dining facility Yuho, and tea ceremony experiences that can be booked upon request.
If you are interested in these, please inquire with the staff directly when you make your booking.
Stay at Sanyo-so to Fully Enjoy Japan's Nature and Culture
The activities mentioned above provide a glimpse of what you can enjoy at Sanyo-so beyond the relaxing hot springs and delicious cuisine.
From the Japanese garden to the nearby Izu Panorama Park, as well as special events and cultural performances, a stay at Sanyo-so will enhance your trip to Japan with memorable experiences and unforgettable views.
Sponsored by Sanyo-so
Main image courtesy of Sanyo-so
This time, we will introduce "6 recommended autumn foliage spots in Ishikawa Prefecture."
About the autumn foliage season
The autumn foliage season in Ishikawa Prefecture usually runs from late October to early November (or sometimes late November).
This year, the best time to see the flowers is expected to be from late November to early December.
The temperature is dropping, so please take precautions against the cold and enjoy the autumn leaves.
Kenrokuen Garden and Kanazawa Castle Park (Kanazawa City )
Kenrokuen, one of Japan's three most famous gardens, and Kanazawa Castle Park, which was developed on the site of the castle of the Kaga domain and gives a sense of history, are both famous spots.
Kanazawa Castle Park (Gyokusen'inmaru Garden)
means of transportation
There are three ways to get to the hotel: by car , bus , or taxi .
◇Car
Travel time: Approximately 10 minutes from the hotel
Parking: Kenroku Parking Lot (approximately 480 cars)
Fee: Kenroku Parking charges 350 yen for 60 minutes, 150 yen for every 30 minutes thereafter
◇Bus
Boarding point: Musashi-ga-tsuji/Omicho Market (in front of Ichibakan)
Get off at Kenrokuen-shita or Kanazawa Castle Park
Price: 210 yen
◇Taxi
Boarding point: Omicho Market (in front of Ichibakan)
Duration: Approximately 6-7 minutes
Price: Approximately 1,000 to 1,200 yen
Highlights
・Yamazakiyama (Momijiyama): The only autumn foliage spot in the park, where you can enjoy the spectacular view of the leaves turning Aka and yellow.
・Kasumigaike Pond and Kotoji Lantern: The autumn leaves reflected on the water's surface are beautiful and fantastical.
The color of the autumn leaves changes depending on the weather, so it is recommended to check the official website or live camera before visiting.
Event Information
Light-up events are held at Kenrokuen and Kanazawa Castle Park from October to December.
Main dates: Held multiple times on weekends and holidays from October to December
Time: 6:00 PM - 8:45 PM
Price: Free admission during illumination hours
Utatsuyama Park and foot of the mountain (Kanazawa City)
This beautiful park offers a panoramic view of Kanazawa City and allows you to enjoy the natural scenery of the four seasons.
Foot of Mt. Utatsu
means of transportation
There are three ways to get to the hotel: by car , bus , or taxi .
◇Car
Travel time: Approximately 10 minutes from the hotel
Parking: Parking is available at various locations throughout the park, and large buses can also be accommodated.
A total of approximately 364 cars can be parked.
*There are limited parking spaces around popular spots, and it can get crowded during the autumn foliage season, so we recommend arriving early.
Price: Free
◇Bus
There is no direct line from Musashi-ga-tsuji/Omicho Market, the closest station to our hotel, so you will need to transfer along the way.
① Boarding: "Musashi-ga-tsuji/Omicho Market (in front of Ichibakan)"
Get off at "Utatsuyama Park Exit-B"
② Boarding: "Utatsuyama Park Exit-A"
Get off at: "Utatsuyama Park"
◇ Taxi
Boarding point: Omicho Market (in front of Kanazawa MZA)
Travel time: Approximately 10 minutes
Highlights
・If you visit in the morning or early afternoon, you can enjoy a beautiful view of Kanazawa city and the Nihon Sea through the autumn leaves on a clear day.
・There are also temples and teahouse districts in the surrounding area, so it is recommended to combine a historical stroll with viewing the autumn leaves.
Metasequoia trees lined the streets of Taiyogaoka (Taiyogaoka, Kanazawa City)
The tree-lined road stretches for about 1.7 km and is dyed in golden and reddish brown colors, creating a spectacular view that looks like something out of a movie.
There is a wedding hall nearby, so this spot is also used for wedding photography.
Metasequoia trees lined up in Taiyogaoka
means of transportation
There are three ways to get from our hotel to the Metasequoia Avenue: by car, bus, or taxi.
◇Car
Travel time: Approximately 20 minutes from the hotel
*Parking is limited as the property is located in a residential area, and street parking is strictly prohibited.
◇Bus
Boarding point: Musashi-ga-tsuji/Omicho Market (in front of Ichibakan)
Drop-off point: Taiyogaoka New Town-B
Travel time: Approximately 40 minutes
Fare: 400 yen one way
*Not valid for Kanazawa City 1-day free pass
◇Taxi
Travel time: Approximately 20 to 30 minutes
Price: Approximately 2,000 to 3,000 yen
* Varies depending on time of day and traffic conditions
Highlights
There are fewer people around in the early morning and evening, so you can enjoy the autumn leaves in peace.
There are footpaths on both sides, so you can stroll along the orange-hued path.
Natadera Temple (Natatown,Komatsu City)
A temple with a history of 1,300 years, founded during the Nara period
Natadera Temple
means of transportation
You can get to Natadera Temple from our hotel by car, train, bus, or taxi.
◇ Car
Travel time: Approximately 65 minutes from the hotel
Parking: Free
Parking for 40 buses and 200 cars
*The park is crowded with many tourists every year, and the parking lot fills up quickly, so we recommend leaving early.
◇ Train and bus *Transfer required
① From Kanazawa Station, take the JR Hokuriku Main Line to Awazu Station (IR Ishikawa Railway)
Travel time: Approximately 30 minutes
Price: 670 yen
② Take the Hokuriku Railroad bus from Awazu Station to Natadera Temple
Travel time: Approximately 20 minutes
Price: 340 yen
◇ Train and taxi *Transfer required
① From Kanazawa Station, take the JR Hokuriku Main Line to Awazu Station (IR Ishikawa Railway)
Travel time: Approximately 30 minutes
Price: 670 yen
② Take a taxi from Awazu Station to Natadera Temple
・From the observation deck "Chinjudo", you can get a panoramic view of the strangely shaped rocks and the temple grounds bathed in the colors of autumn leaves.
The vermilion-painted Kaedetsuki Bridge and the autumn leaves create a picturesque scene.
information
Opening hours: Summer 3/1 to 11/30 9:15am - 4pm
Winter: December 1st to February 28th, 9:15am - 4pm
*Open all year round
Address: 122 Natanicho , Komatsu City, Ishikawa Prefecture, 923-0336
Contact: 0761-65-2111
Required time: General viewing takes about 30 to 40 minutes, special viewing takes about 15 minutes
Admission fee: Adults (junior high school students and above) 1,000 yen
Elementary school students: 300 yen
Infants: Free
*Special admission is available for an additional 200 yen on top of the general admission fee (elementary school students and infants are free)
*Special viewing is currently closed this season due to garden maintenance (scheduled until the end of March 2026).
Hakusan Shirakawa White Road ( Hakusan City Ishikawa Prefecture - Gifu Prefecture )
This is a driving course within Hakusan Kunitachi Park that connects the ancient capital of Kanazawa, Hakusan, Kaga Kaga, and the World Heritage sites of Shirakawa and Takayama .
You can also enjoy a 60-minute drive or hike.
Hakusan Shirakawagou White Road
means of transportation
There are two ways to get to Hakusan Shirakawa White Road: by car or by bus tour.
◇ Car
Duration: Approximately 1.5 hours
* The Shirakawa Hakusan White Road begins at Nakamiya Toll Gate in Ishikawa Prefecture .
This beautiful valley in Yamanaka Onsen offers a relaxing experience with nature throughout the seasons.
On the riverside terrace, you can enjoy Kaga tea and sweets while feeling the refreshing coolness of the valley up close.
Kakusenkei
means of transportation
There are two ways to get to Kakusenkei: by car, train, or bus.
◇ Car
Travel time: Approximately 60 minutes
Parking: There are several free parking lots.
①Kikunoyu /Tourist Parking Lot
Capacity: 70 cars
Note: This is the largest parking lot in Yamanaka Onsen town and is open from 6:00 am to 11:00 pm.
②Ayatoribashi Parking Lot
Capacity: 18 cars
③Korogibashi Parking Lot
Capacity: 23 cars
Note: Up to two large buses can be parked.
④Basho no Yakata Parking Lot
Capacity: 25 cars
Note: Free for facility users, but general tourists will need to pay 1,000 yen per hour.
◇ Train and bus *Transfers required
1. From Kanazawa Station, take the JR Hokuriku Main Line to Kaga Station (IR Ishikawa Railway).
Travel time: Approximately 30 minutes
Price: 880 yen
② Take the Hokuriku Railroad bus from Kaga Station to Yamanaka Onsen.
Travel time: Approximately 30 minutes
Price: 430 yen
Highlights
・The Ayatori Bridge, with its unique crimson-purple S-shaped design, is a popular spot where you can see the beautiful autumn leaves.
・The symbolic "Korogi Bridge" of the hot spring town is a wooden bridge made entirely of cypress, and its beautiful contrast with the autumn leaves is captivating.
Event Information
"Karankoron YUGEnoICHI2025"
This hot spring town market is set on Yuge Kaido, the main street of Yamanaka Onsen, and is themed around food and art, allowing you to experience the town with all five senses.
Period: November 2nd (Sun) to November 3rd (Mon, national holiday), 2025
Hours: 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Location: All areas of Yuge Kaido in Minamimachi, Yamanaka Onsen
Airport limousine buses are available at Terminals 1 and 2 at Kansai International Airport, and at the South and North Terminals at Itami Airport, making them extremely convenient as they allow you to travel the shortest distance within the airport.
After arriving at the airport, you go through the boarding procedures and get ready to enjoy your flight! But just as you're excited, you'll be faced with the hurdle of moving around the airport. It's extremely difficult to move to the departure terminal for your airline while carrying a large suitcase. In particular, at Kansai International Airport, you have to take a free shuttle bus to get from Terminal 1 to Terminal 2, and getting on and off that bus takes a surprisingly long time.
Airport limousine buses stop at the departure terminal of your airline's departure point, so you can move around the airport less, avoid getting lost, and feel safe. This gives you extra time before boarding your flight, allowing you to spend it productively, such as buying souvenirs.
This time, we will introduce airport limousine buses departing from the OCAT Bus Terminal based on the latest information for 2025.
*Please see this article for directions to the OCAT bus terminal.
Gozaisho is about 60 minutes by train and bus from Nagoya and about 150 minutes from Osaka. The nearest station is Kintetsu Yunoyama Onsen Station. You can also take a local bus to the Gozaisho Ropeway station. Around Yunoyama Onsen Station, you'll also find the popular Aqua Ignis , which has stylish cafes, restaurants, and hot springs.
The autumn foliage season in Mie Prefecture begins at Mt. Gozaisho
The autumn leaves on Mt. Gozaisho, which is 1,212 meters above sea level, gradually change color over the course of about a month, starting from mid-October and moving from the summit, mid-mountain, and hot spring town.
First, the trees near the top of the mountain, as seen from the ropeway, change color, and the contrast between the majestic rock formations such as Daikokuiwa and Byobuiwa and the autumn leaves is at its best. The azalea trees turn a brilliant red, too.
Spectacular autumn foliage scenery seen from the Gozaisho Ropeway
You can enjoy the autumn foliage on Mt. Gozaisho by taking the ropeway. It's a 12-minute aerial journey from the ropeway base station to the summit station. You can reach the top of the mountain in one go by ropeway, without having to use the mountain trails!
The Aka, yellow, and green colors gradually change from the summit to the hot spring town at the base of the mountain.
Enjoy curry udon and soft serve ice cream after sightseeing!
After enjoying sightseeing, we recommend the specialty "Gozaisho Curry Udon" at the mountaintop restaurant in Gozaisho! The combination of chewy "Ise Udon" noodles and curry is exquisite. For dessert, be sure to try the soft serve ice cream.
Day trips are possible! How to get there from Osaka and Nagoya
Take the Kintetsu Limited Express from "Osaka Namba" or "Kintetsu Nagoya" and get off at "Yokkaichi" (approximately 120 minutes from Osaka, approximately 30 minutes from Nagoya)
From Yokkaichi Station, take the Kintetsu Yunoyama Line and get off at Yunoyama Onsen (approximately 30 minutes)
Take the local bus from Yunoyama Onsen and get off at Gozaisho Ropeway (approximately 10 minutes)
Kintetsu Railway is recommended for sightseeing from Osaka and Nagoya to Gozaisho
Minami Ward is a Southern European-style agricultural park located along the Tamano Prefectural Road in Tamano Ward, Okayama City City. This facility offers seasonal fruit picking experiences throughout the year and hosts a variety of events. The Roadside Market, a farm produce direct sales store that has been a favorite of many people from both inside and outside the area for many years, is also very popular.
In 2025, a number of new restaurants, including popular bakeries, opened in the South Village! Okayama City South Village is evolving to a new stage, not only as a place for harvesting experiences and events, but also as an attractive Okayama City that attracts repeat visitors. We will introduce some of the notable new stores.
Located in the rural landscape of the southern part of Okayama City, Okayama City South Village is an experiential agricultural park marked by a white observation tower that evokes the idyllic rural scenery of Southern Europe.
Fruit picking experiences such as strawberry picking and Grape Picking are popular within the garden. Many events are held throughout the year in the plaza in front of the entrance and on the lawn area within the garden. At the Roadside Market, a farm produce direct sales store facing the parking lot, fresh vegetables and fruits harvested by local farmers are sold directly to customers every day, and there are many repeat customers from outside the area.
The observation tower, which is the symbol of the park, offers a 360-degree panoramic view. The pool is also open in the summer, and is popular with families. There is free parking for 600 standard-sized cars, and the facility has been loved by many people for many years.
When you walk through the South Village entrance, the first thing you see isn't a ticket booth, but a donut shop.
riel donut was created by renovating what was once a ticket booth. The unique style of choosing your items as if you were buying a ticket is sure to surprise first-time visitors, who may wonder, "Is this really a donut shop?"
Mr. Ishikawa is the owner and operator of this unique shop. Since opening in Gakuminami-cho , Kita Ward ku , Okayama City , Riel Donuts has become a popular donut shop that is loved by locals, tourists, and people coming back from sports games. The South Village store is also a popular spot loved by people of all ages.
The most important thing is the fabric
The most important thing about Riel Donuts is the dough. They don't use eggs and use a unique method that blends pumpkin from Hokkaido with carefully selected glutinous wheat from Kumamoto Prefecture, resulting in a fluffy, crispy, and chewy texture.
According to Ishikawa,"I want people to enjoy the dough itself, rather than the flashy toppings (decorations)." In fact, Ishikawa is a flour professional! "While baking bread at a bakery for 33 years, I continued to research dough with the hope of opening a donut shop one day," he says. He then finally opened his dream donut shop, and opened his second store in South Village, a neighborhood with which he has a connection.
Their signature donuts are made right before your eyes!
Their signature product is the "Brûlée Donut." After receiving an order, the donut is filled with custard cream (sweet cream), dusted with powdered sugar, and roasted right in front of you with a burner, creating a lively atmosphere that is very popular. Many customers take videos of the process, and the contrast between the crispy, fragrant exterior and the moist interior is an unforgettable taste once you've tried it.
"The simple sugar donuts are also popular," says Ishikawa. Their unpretentious deliciousness attracts repeat customers.
Another noteworthy menu item is the "Hino Kuni Pizza, enjoyed with all five senses." This exquisite pizza is based on the dough used at a renowned restaurant that was selected as a Michelin Bib Gourmand (a prestigious restaurant selected by France's prestigious restaurant guide) and ranked number one in the country on Tabelog, and has been further improved. It is a special pizza that combines a chewy texture with a fragrant aroma. For more details, please check out Riel Donuts' Instagram.
Aiming to be like a food court
At Riel Donuts, they offer a wide variety of products, including cookies made with Hokkaido wheat, Basque cheesecake, fruit fromage drinks (drinks made with fruit and cheese), Okayama craft beer (locally brewed beer), and soft drinks. We also recommend relaxing and enjoying a drink at the tables in front of the store.
"I'd like to expand the menu and make it into something like a small food court (a dining area with multiple restaurants)," says Ishikawa. "I hope to be able to spread the appeal of Okayama and Kurashiki from here."
Working with dough every day, they offer a "one-of-a-kind experience" at their unique Riel Donuts store.
[riel donut South Village Store]
Address: Okayama Prefecture Okayama City Minami Ward, 2468 Kataoka, Minami-ku , Okayama City, Okayama Prefecture
2｜A popular bakery from Okayama is here! "Okayama Kobo Liaison"
Three stores have opened in the building to the right of the former ticket office after passing through the entrance.
The first to open was Okayama Kobo Liaison , a popular bakery from Okayama . While rooted in the local community, this bakery has also opened branches in Hawaii and California, gaining popularity overseas. With two stores in Okayama, and having supported the opening of over 400 new businesses across the country, this bakery, one of Okayama's leading bakeries, has begun a new operation based in South Village.
We spoke with Masaki-san, who is in charge of public relations and business start-up support. "Since we opened, we've had people of all ages come and we're becoming more well-known in the area, which we're very grateful for," he said.
Freshness is "life" and bread is a fresh food
"Our bread is fresh food," says Masaki. The reason is that "Okayama Kobo Liaison is particular about being 'freshly baked' and 'additive-free.' Rather than baking large quantities of bread, we aim to bake in small batches repeatedly, so that we can provide bread that is 'freshly baked within 30 minutes.'" As such, it is possible to purchase freshly baked bread even an hour before closing time.
Furthermore, they use an original blend of wheat flour from Hokkaido, Ebetsu, and are thorough in not using any additives in the dough. "It's not the most efficient method, but that's what makes it delicious. We want to provide the bread that people take the trouble to buy in the best condition," he says with a refreshing yet passionate attitude.
I want people to become more familiar with bread.
Okayama Kobo Liaison offers a variety of breads, including the popular "Okayama Curry Bread with Beef and Vegetables," as well as breads made with whole wheat flour and rye that are exclusive to the South Village store, so you're bound to have a pleasant dilemma deciding which one to buy.
The spacious store also has an eat-in corner (in-store dining area) where you can enjoy freshly baked bread right away. They also actively hold experience-based events such as parent-child bread-making classes, and are working to make bread more accessible to people. "I want this to be a place where families can cherish time spent together, not just buy bread," says Masaki. Here you can find new ways to enjoy bread.
Making bread a part of everyday life
Okayama Kobo Liaison aims to become a place of gathering that is rooted in the local community, while also becoming a bakery that attracts attention from around the world. "I want to connect with more people through bread," says Masaki with a smile. He adds, "I would like to actively use locally grown vegetables from South Village, and I would also like to try collaborations between stores."
Most of the bread here has a soft, gentle texture. This reflects their desire for people of all ages to enjoy bread every day. Okayama Kobo Liaison prioritizes the "excitement of freshly baked bread" over efficiency, and their challenge will continue to expand.
[Freshly Baked Bread Market Okayama Kobo Liaison South Village Store]
Address: Okayama Prefecture Okayama City Minami Ward, 2468 Kataoka, Minami-ku , Okayama City, Okayama Prefecture
3｜ Marugo Deli Deli: A new style of community-based restaurant
The second store in the building is Marugo Deli, which opened in South Village.
This product is also well known in Okayama Prefecture for its "⑤" mark, and is popular in many places, including shopping malls, as "Margo Fruit Juice."
We spoke with the store owner, Mr. Numata. In addition to fresh juices, the sandwiches and Neapolitan (a pasta dish with tomato sauce) are also popular, and the store has now become beloved not only by tourists but also by local regulars. He says he often hears from locals that "we're glad Margo has come to South Village."
The long-awaited opening
Numata, who is from the nearby area, has a special attachment to South Village as it is a local facility. He was originally involved in store design at Marugo Deli, and when he heard about the opening plans, he volunteered to run the store.
Numata values "local production for local consumption" (consuming locally produced goods locally). He actively incorporates vegetables such as lotus root harvested in the Nadasaki area where South Village is located, as well as fruits harvested in South Village, to provide original menu items that can only be enjoyed here. He also said, "I want to make this a place where people can have fun, not just eat." He is considering ways to expand the "food x experience" concept, such as planning projects that take advantage of the store's unique terrace seating (outdoor seating), which is rare among the many Margo stores, and planning workshops such as agricultural experiences for children.
South Village Exclusive Menu
Of course, the recommended item is the collaborative menu that makes use of local ingredients. In particular, the menu that is only available here, which uses seasonal fruits harvested in South Village, is a treat for visitors. When we visited for this interview, Shine Muscat juice was being served.
When the staff handed it to me, they said, "It's fresh, so please eat it quickly." It was clear that they wanted me to enjoy it at its best.
There is a constant stream of customers throughout the day, and they even come on rainy days. Another advantage is the large parking lot, which makes it easy to drop in on the way home from a nearby event. "Most of our repeat customers are locals, and the ratio of tourists is about half and half," which shows how popular the shop is with locals.
Marugo Deli is more than just a place to eat and drink
"I want to aim to be more like a local playground than a restaurant," says Numata. Not only does it have an open terrace, but it also has a kids' space (a play area) inside the restaurant, making it a great place for families. He also says with a smile that by combining food and experiences, he wants to promote the unique charms of Okayama and make it a place that connects tourism and everyday life.
Marugo Deli is unique to South Village, offering a place for locals to use on a daily basis and a one-of-a-kind experience for tourists. With this vision of the future in mind, the restaurant is filled with the desire to invigorate the local area.
[Marugo Deli South Village Store]
Address: Okayama Prefecture Okayama City Minami Ward, 2468 Kataoka, Minami-ku , Okayama City, Okayama Prefecture
4｜Enjoy traditional hand-pulled udon noodles at Menkurando Fujimasa
The third store in the building is Menkurando Fujimasa , which serves hand-pulled noodles from the Kamogata region of Asakuchi City Okayama Prefecture, a tradition that dates back to the Edo period (1603-1868).
This is the first directly managed store in Okayama City by Kamokawa Tenobe Somen Co., Ltd., which is working hard to popularize hand-stretched noodles, a specialty of Bitchu Kamogata.
When asked what prompted them to open the store, owner Fujiwara said, "Because we're located away from the city, we wanted to create more places where people can eat and gather." The reason they chose South Village, which is home to a variety of tenants (stores), rather than a standalone store is because "we wanted to create a place where people can inspire each other and create excitement." He also said, "We want more people to know the appeal of hand-pulled noodles."
I want to spread the deliciousness of hand-pulled noodles
Our opening hours are short as we are mainly open during lunch hours, but we put a lot of care into each and every bowl of udon.
"I don't just want to fill your stomach with food, I want the experience of eating here to be memorable," says Fujiwara, who carefully selects and prepares the ingredients, placing great importance on the dining experience itself.
"Each region has its own unique udon noodles, and I want people to know how delicious the hand-stretched udon noodles of Okayama Prefecture are," she says with a gentle smile.
The texture and smoothness that only hand-pulled noodles can provide
The signature dish is, of course, the hand-stretched udon. Both hot and cold udon are recommended, but Fujiwara-san chose the tempura udon as his "best recommendation."
The long noodles, a feature of hand-stretched udon, are smooth, soft, and chewy, and slide easily down your throat. They have a different texture to the noodles of Sanuki udon (a famous udon from Kagawa Prefecture ), which is also well-known in Okayama . I'm looking forward to trying the warm udon next time.
The store has a calm atmosphere, making it a comfortable space for tourists and families alike. There are counter seats, so even if you're alone, you can feel free to come in.
Let's join hands and liven up the area
Regarding his future plans, Fujiwara said, "I would like to collaborate with other tenants, with wheat as the keyword." He also said that he would like to be a presence that makes people think, "If you go to South Village, there's something interesting to do," through monthly events and other business activities. He also made an impression by smiling as he said, "I would like to collaborate not only within the facility, but also with neighboring stores if possible, to liven up the area."
I felt that Fujimasa aims to be a hub that both tourists and locals can enjoy.
[Menkurando Fujimasa ]
Address: Okayama Prefecture Okayama City Minami Ward, 2468 Kataoka, Minami-ku , Okayama City, Okayama Prefecture
Business hours: 10:30-14:30 (until 15:00 on Saturdays, Sundays, and public holidays)
Closed: Tuesdays
5｜ OHAYO GROUNDS: OHAYO's first permanent directly managed store
In Okayama, it would be difficult to find someone who doesn't know about Ohayo Dairy Co., Ltd. (hereafter referred to as "Ohayo"), a long-established dairy product manufacturer.
Ohayo has opened its first permanent directly managed store, a milk cafe called "OHAYO GROUNDS" in South Village. It's a long-established manufacturer that was founded over 70 years ago, so I was surprised to learn that they don't have a permanent directly managed store.
From the entrance and on your way from the building housing three stores to the grassy plaza, the first thing you see is OHAYO GROUNDS.
This is a permanent store that utilizes the know-how gained from stores that have previously operated for limited periods in Okayama and Kobe.
Overflowing passion for "Milk"
We spoke with Sakamoto-san, who was involved in setting up the store. He smiled and said that he created this store with the hope that people would "enjoy the thoughts of the makers" in addition to being able to purchase Ohayo products at supermarkets and convenience stores.
According to Sakamoto, "This is not just a place to sell products." They offer "milk that is easy to drink even for people who don't like milk," made using a unique method, and also explain the current situation of dairy farmers (farmers who produce milk), in order to help customers learn about the appeal of dairy products through experiences. "In addition to the products that our customers have always loved, we offer menus that can only be tasted here, so that visitors can gain a deeper understanding of milk and make new discoveries," he says, his passion for milk clearly evident.
Discover the "Ohayo" you never knew existed
"Milk served in a bucket." Its striking appearance has drawn praise for its cuteness, and it has become a hot topic on social media. In fact, the milk is made with care, which cannot be seen from its appearance. By further removing water from conventional milk, the distinctive taste and smell of milk have been reduced, allowing you to enjoy the natural appeal of milk. Apparently, even people who don't like milk are able to drink it all up, and when I tried it myself, it was so easy to drink that I drank it all in one go.
The "Snowmelt Milk Ice Cream," which is grilled at the table and served, is also popular. You can enjoy the warmth of the caramelized sugar and the coolness of the ice cream all at the same time, and it's sure to become addictive.
It's clear that they value the sense of exclusivity that can only be found here, with limited menus available only at a store directly operated by the manufacturer.
With the community, with milk
Regarding his future prospects, he said, "I want to make this a store that can continue for a long time together with the local community." In fact, Sakamoto-san has such a strong passion for Milk that he spoke directly to upper management in order to set up a directly managed store, even though he is in a department that has nothing to do with sales promotion. Please come and experience his passion at the store.
Aiming to be a comfortable space where the everyday and the extraordinary intersect, it will be a place where local residents and tourists can drop in casually, create memories through milk, and spread new challenges from Okayama to the rest of the country. "OHAYO GROUNDS" is also imbued with this desire for the future.
The store is filled with displays of wooden boxes and bottles that bring back memories for older customers and are refreshing for younger customers. Also, since it's a special occasion, they rent out lanterns and straw mats (traditional mats) so that customers can enjoy their "Milk" on the spacious lawn.
[OHAYO GROUNDS South Village Store]
Address: Okayama Prefecture Okayama City Minami Ward, 2468 Kataoka, Minami-ku , Okayama City, Okayama Prefecture
Business hours: 10:00-17:00
Closed: Mondays and Tuesdays (may be closed temporarily)
We spoke to five stores opening in South Village in 2025, and each store seemed to want more than just food and drink; they also wanted to "provide an experience" and "liven up the area." Each store offers "value for making a special visit," with experiences and products and ways of spending time that cannot be found in stores in the city. Of course, it's great to visit each store, but spending time relaxing in South Village, buying farm-fresh products at the roadside market and enjoying seasonal fruit picking, is also a wonderful way to spend your time.
In addition to the stores introduced here, there is also a "Toy Outlet" that is only open on Saturdays and Sundays. Unfortunately, it was closed on the day of the visit, but it seems that some products are 80% off the regular price, so you might be able to find some great bargains! It may be a "toy kingdom" in a different sense. This writer, who loves toys, is excited too.
South Village is full of charm!
When you think of South Village, many people will think of the long-standing and beloved Roadside Market, which we mentioned in our introduction at the beginning. This popular farm-direct sales outlet is lined with fresh vegetables and fruits brought in directly by farmers, and they sell out quickly before you know it. The photo was taken on a weekday morning, but the market is bustling with customers. In fact, in addition to farm-direct products, they also have a wide selection of fresh flowers. Here too, many customers are at a loss as to what to buy from the colorful flowers.
There are also many local specialties from around the prefecture, including bento boxes, bread, dairy products, noodles, and more. There are also Japanese confectionery shops, fishmongers, and meat dealers. The ever-popular "lotus root croquette" (a deep-fried dish made with lotus root) is a staple, and this writer often buys it.
It's so crowded with people from the morning that you'll wonder if it's really a weekday.
It is located on the Kurashiki Kojima Road, so it is easily accessible. Why not head to Okayama City South Village on a drive or tour?
[Okayama City South Village]
Address: 2468 Kataoka, Minami Ward, Okayama City , Okayama Prefecture Opening hours: 9:00-17:00 (closed on Tuesdays)
Opening hours: Roadside market 8:00-17:00 (open all year round) Admission fee: Free
Kyoto is a historic city that has flourished as the center of Japanese culture for over a thousand years. World Heritage-registered temples and shrines such as Kinkaku-ji Temple and Kiyomizu-dera Temple captivate visitors with their history and beauty. Kyoto is one of the places where you can experience Japan's four seasons most vividly, with cherry blossoms fluttering in the spring, the bustling Gion Festival in summer, Nishiki leaves decorating the mountains in autumn, and the temples enveloping them in a mystical blanket of snow in winter. A visit to Kyoto is sure to be a moving experience no matter what season you visit. At the same time, Kyoto is also a city where cutting-edge trends are born in a variety of fields, including gourmet food and art, and where the contrast between old and new is fascinating.
The Gojo area in particular is a hidden gem, dotted with unique shops and a relaxed atmosphere, despite being close to the tourist-filled Shimizu area and the bustling downtown areas of Shijo and Gion. This time, we'll introduce a special two- Tomari, one-night itinerary (first day edition) based at THE BLOSSOM KYOTO, a hotel nestled in Gojo. From long-established restaurants beloved by locals to hidden gems only accessible to travelers, we'll guide you through a special time where you can fully enjoy the food, culture, and history of Kyoto.
Reasons for choosing THE BLOSSOM KYOTO as your base
THE BLOSSOM KYOTO is a hotel located in an excellent location, just one subway stop from Kyoto Station and a two-minute walk from Gojo Station on the Karasuma Line of the Kyoto Municipal Subway. It is ideal for stays where you will be traveling frequently for sightseeing or business.
Artworks related to Kyoto are displayed throughout the hotel, giving you the feeling of strolling through an art museum.In addition, there are ample facilities such as a large public bath and a fitness room, making it comfortable for all stay styles, from short to long term.
Enjoy gourmet food and tableware in Gojo! Recommended itinerary
Itinerary [Day 1]
①12:00 Arrive at Gojo Station - Enjoy authentic handmade soba noodles at "Sobanomi Yoshimura" ②15:00 Check in at "THE BLOSSOM KYOTO " ③16:00 Enjoy the finest coffee at "blend kyoto" ④18:00 Enjoy Kyoto cuisine at the hotel restaurant "KYOTO GOJO ONO" ⑤20:00 Relax and unwind in the large public bath
①12:00 Arrive at Gojo Station - Enjoy authentic handmade soba noodles at "Sobanomi Yoshimura"
Our first stop is Sobanomi Yoshimura, located just one subway stop from Kyoto Station, right outside Exit 1 of Gojo Station. In a relaxing atmosphere reminiscent of a traditional Japanese townhouse, you can enjoy fragrant soba noodles made with stone-ground domestic buckwheat flour, as well as freshly fried tempura. An English menu is also available, making it convenient for international travelers.
▶ Click here for the official website of "Sobanomi Yoshimura" ▶Access: Immediately outside Gojo Station Exit 1 / Approximately 1 minute walk from THE BLOSSOM KYOTO
②15:00 Check in at "THE BLOSSOM KYOTO"
After enjoying authentic soba noodles at Sobanomi Yoshimura, it's just a 2-minute walk to THE BLOSSOM KYOTO . When you check in, you can enjoy a welcome drink and sweets as a subtle gesture of hospitality. Even if you're full from lunch, the carefully prepared high-quality drinks and light sweets will provide both flavor and satisfaction, making for an elegant start to your trip.
▶Welcome drink serving time: 15:00-18:00
The room we will introduce this time is the "Moderate Twin," which combines a calming atmosphere with a Japanese feel. Once you take off your shoes at the entrance and step into the tatami-floored space, you'll feel as if you've returned to your own home in Japan. The delicate patterns on the walls and cushions evoke a Japanese aesthetic, and the high-quality materials and furnishings create a sophisticated and luxurious atmosphere.
The guest rooms are equipped with "TABI SOCKS (Traditional Japanese Split Toe Socks)" to make your stay in Japan even more comfortable. Even those who are not used to going barefoot or who are a little uncomfortable with their feet can use them with peace of mind. You can take it home as a memento of your trip, and it's a thoughtful touch that allows you to casually enjoy a cultural experience unique to Japan.
For group trips, we recommend the Deluxe Force Nagomi. This rare room type features four regular beds, making it perfect for family trips or friends. It also has two sinks and two toilets, making it easy to get ready in the morning.
Once you've sorted your luggage, head out for a stroll around the hotel. The communication space "Ainomachi no Kura" in the lobby on the first floor is designed to resemble the streets of Kyoto, allowing you to feel the atmosphere of the city without leaving your room. This space reuses building materials such as roof tiles and beams from storehouses that were once built in the area, creating a tasteful spatial piece that draws you into Kyoto's history and craftsmanship the more you look at it. It's also a popular photogenic spot. Even while staying at the hotel, you'll be able to experience Kyoto's culture and the weight of time with all your senses.
▶The official website of "THE BLOSSOM KYOTO " is here ▶Access: 2 minutes walk from Gojo Station
3. 4:00 PM: Enjoy the ultimate coffee at "blend kyoto"
After checking in, head to Blend Kyoto , a blended coffee specialty shop located in a stylish space renovated from a 100-year-old Kyomachi , an eight-minute walk from Marutamachi Subway Station. Kyoto is known as a city with a thriving coffee culture, and here you can not only drink coffee, but also enjoy the special experience of making your own cup of coffee. Choose your favorite coffee bean from the many varieties lined up on the counter, and the staff will create a custom blend right in front of you. You can check the aroma as you select the beans, and sample the aroma of freshly ground beans, making this an irresistible luxury for coffee lovers.
On this day, I had iced coffee, perfect for summer. It had a rich aroma and a surprisingly smooth taste. Its deep, elegant flavor will add elegance to your time in Kyoto.
▶ Click here for the official "blend kyoto" website ▶Access: 10 minutes on foot from Marutamachi Station in front of the City Hall subway station. 5 minutes by subway from Gojo Station, the closest station to THE BLOSSOM KYOTO, to Marutamachi Station.
In some rooms at "THE BLOSSOM KYOTO," guests can enjoy original coffee blended exclusively for the hotel by "blend kyoto." Being able to experience everything from grinding the beans in a mill in your room is extremely rare, creating a memorable and special moment as you bring out the aroma and flavor with your own hands. This luxurious experience, like spending time in a private cafe, is sure to become a deeply etched memory of your trip.
④18:00 Enjoy Kyoto cuisine at the hotel restaurant "KYOTO GOJO ONO"
The dinner menu at KYOTO GOJO ONO features a course of "Japanese and Western creative nouvelle cuisine" that combines carefully selected ingredients from Kyoto and Kyushu.
Fish and meat dishes are carefully prepared using low-temperature cooking (sous vide) to bring out the full flavor of the ingredients. Delicate temperature control ensures dishes such as the "Red Sea Bream Mi-Cuit (41cc)" and "Miyazaki Prefecture Prefecture Kuroge Wagyu Sirloin (58cc)" are not only textured but also visually stunning and luxurious. One dish you should definitely try is the low-temperature roasted duck. Kyoto is home to many famous duck restaurants, and the duck is slowly cooked at a low temperature, allowing the flavor to spread with every bite. The moist, elegant, and juicy taste is truly a Kyoto treat.
The restaurant's interior is decorated in chic, subdued colors, and the open kitchen allows you to catch a glimpse of the chef's dexterity, creating a lively atmosphere. Guests can also enjoy a Toyotomi selection of cocktails and pairings with fine sake from Kyoto and Kyushu, providing a moment where you can fully enjoy a gourmet Kyoto experience with all five senses.
▶ Click here for the official KYOTO GOJO ONO website ▶Business hours: Dinner time: 18:00~22:00 (LO 21:00) Bar time: 18:00~23:00 (LO 22:00) *Reservations are required for the dinner course.
⑤20:00 Relax and unwind in the large public bath
After a satisfying meal, relax in the spacious public bath and unwind from the day's fatigue. The clean changing rooms are equipped with lockers with locks for your peace of mind. There are also vanity tables where you can sit and take your time with your skincare routine, ensuring a comfortable end to your night's travels.
▶ Opening hours: 15:00~25:00 / 6:00~9:00 (*Only for hotel guests)
Two days in Gojo, Kyoto- from gourmet food and relaxation on the first day to culture and crafts on the second day
On the first day after arriving in Kyoto, Kyoto, we enjoyed hand-made soba noodles at the long-established Sobanomi Yoshimura restaurant before checking into THE BLOSSOM KYOTO. We enjoyed aromatic coffee at blend kyoto, a renovated 100-year-old townhouse, and in the evening enjoyed seasonal gourmet cuisine at the hotel's restaurant, KYOTO GOJO ONO. We ended the day by relaxing our minds and bodies in the large public bath and quietly reflecting on our luxurious time in Kyoto- truly the flow of a high-quality day. The next day begins with a luxurious breakfast at the hotel, followed by a stroll along Sannenzaka Saka, a visit to famous Kyo-yaki and Kiyomizu-yaki kilns, and an encounter with fine sake and sweets. We will introduce a day in which you can experience with all five senses the "depth of Kyoto," a city woven with culture, crafts, and fine cuisine.
Enjoy gourmet food and tableware in Gojo! Recommended itinerary
Itinerary [2nd day]
①9:00 Start your day in luxury with a hotel breakfast buffet ②10:00 Check out of "THE BLOSSOM KYOTO" ③11:00 Take a stroll along Saka to experience Kyoto culture ④12:00 Enjoy the beauty of Kyoto ware and Kiyomizu ware at "Touan" ⑤13:00 Find your favorite item at Soryugama, where the vibrant blue is the charm. ⑥14:00 Search for your favorite sake at Meishukan Takimoto. ⑦15:00 Enjoy watching and eating - "Kyoto Matoi Confectionery Cacoto" ⑧16:00 Pick up your luggage at the hotel and head home
①9:00 Start your day in luxury with the hotel's breakfast buffet
THE BLOSSOM KYOTO offers breakfast in a relaxing, modern Japanese space, combining a prix fixe style menu where you can choose your main dish with a colorful buffet.You can choose from several main dishes, including fish, meat, and egg dishes, and choose from a variety of options to suit your mood and physical condition that day, such as a typical morning toast sandwich, a fluffy omelet, or vegan soy milk ramen.
In addition, there is a Toyotomi lineup of prepared dishes, freshly baked bread, salads, fruits, and more from the open kitchen to satisfy both Japanese and Western food lovers. The menu also features local ingredients from Kyushu and Kyoto, making it a luxurious morning where you can enjoy a culinary experience unique to your travels.
▶Business hours: 6:30~11:00 (LO 10:30) *Business hours may change depending on usage.
②10:00 Check out from "THE BLOSSOM KYOTO"
After checking out, leave your luggage at the front desk and head out to explore Kyoto with ease. You can leave your luggage at "THE BLOSSOM KYOTO" even after checking out (only on the day of check-out). The front desk is also equipped with a scale to measure the weight of your luggage, so even those traveling by plane can rest assured. You can leisurely enjoy Kyoto's cityscape and historical spots without having to carry much luggage.
3. 11:00 A stroll along Saka to experience Kyoto culture
On the second day, we'll start by taking a bus to Saka. The route from Yasaka Shrine and Kodaiji Temple to Kiyomizu-dera Temple includes Saka, Saka, and Saka. Among them, Saka is a historic cobblestone road that dates back to the Edo period, and is known for the legend that if you fall down it will shorten your life by three years. By walking slowly and minding your step, you can experience the unique atmosphere of Kyoto while enjoying the traditional townhouses and quaint streetscapes.
▶Access: From the nearest bus stop to "THE BLOSSOM KYOTO," "Gojo Takakura" (1 minute walk), take the bus to "Shimizu-dori" for about 6 minutes Approximately 8 minutes walk from the Shimizu dori bus stop
④12:00 Enjoy the beauty of Kyoto ware and Kiyomizu ware at Touan
After enjoying a stroll down Saka, head to Touan, a shop selling Kyo-yaki and Kiyomizu-yaki ware, just a four-minute walk away.
The Kiyomizu ware produced by Touan is characterized by its vibrant colors and unparalleled durability. The popular "Flower Crystal" series, which features a variety of crystal patterns, is also exciting to look at. You can actually touch and feel the pieces in the store and choose your favorite one. This time we will be introducing the Yasaka store, but you can also experience pottery making at the main store. Why not try the luxurious experience of making your own original tableware as a memento of your trip?
▶Touan official website Access: About a 4-minute walk from the foot of Saka
Additionally, some rooms at "THE BLOSSOM KYOTO" are equipped with coffee cups from Touan's "Flower Crystal" series. The vibrant colors and unique crystal patterns are captivating, and their beauty draws you in every time you look at them. They will further enhance your special coffee time during your stay in Kyoto.
⑤13:00 Find your favorite piece at Soryu Kiln, where the vibrant blue is the charm
Along with Touan, another workshop worth visiting is Soryugama. The spacious gallery is filled with not only tableware but also coasters, chopstick rests, and other distinctive pieces that combine the deep blue of the sky after the rain with the Tobikanna technique of Koishiwara ware, making it a pleasure to just look at them.
Another attraction is the opportunity to watch artisans finish their works up close in the adjacent workshop. This is a spot where you can experience Kyoto's unique pottery culture with all five senses, combining traditional techniques with modern aesthetics.
▶ Click here for the official Soryu Kiln website Access: Approximately 5 minutes on foot from Touan Yasaka store
Additionally, some rooms at THE BLOSSOM KYOTO are equipped with mugs from Soryu Kiln. The deep blue, reminiscent of the sky after rain, enhances the color of the original coffee from blend kyoto, which can also be enjoyed in the rooms, creating a special coffee time.
⑥14:00 Search for your favorite sake - "Meishukan Takimoto"
It's about time to head back to the area around the hotel, thinking about your return trip. Meishukan Takimoto offers a wide range of alcoholic beverages, including carefully selected sake from Kyoto and around the country, authentic shochu shipped directly from Kyushu, liqueurs made with seasonal fruits, and plum wine. Whether you're a drink lover or looking for a souvenir, you're sure to find something you like. At the adjacent Budokan, you can also enjoy a Toyotomi variety of wines, allowing you to fully enjoy a fine wine experience unique to Kyoto.
▶ Click here for the official website of "Meishukan Takimoto" Access: 5-minute walk from Exit 5 of Gojo Station on the subway. Approximately 10 minutes walk from THE BLOSSOM KYOTO
⑦15:00 Enjoy looking and eating at "Kyoto Confectionery Cacoto"
Visit Kyomatigashi Cacoto for beautiful Kyoto sweets featuring traditional Kyoto patterns. Many traditional Japanese patterns are based on nature, and each one is imbued with auspicious meaning. At "Kyoto Matogashi Cacoto," they print meaningful Japanese patterns on cakes and cookies based on the theme of "wearing." These exquisite treats are not only pleasing to the eye, but also allow you to experience Japanese culture while tasting them. They are also excellent for taking photos, and make a wonderful gift for someone special, offering a special Japanese sweets experience.
▶ Click here for the official website of "Kyoto Matoi Confectionery Cacoto" ▶ Access: 4 minutes walk from Exit 1 of Gojo Station on the subway, approximately 5 minutes walk from THE BLOSSOM KYOTO
⑧16:00 Pick up your luggage at the hotel and head home
At the end of your trip, you can pick up your luggage at "THE BLOSSOM KYOTO " and head home. With the memories and souvenirs you collected during your stay and the city of Kyoto still lingering in your mind, you can head to your next destination with a relaxed feeling.
What did you think of the itinerary we introduced this time? Kyoto is packed with so much to see and do that it's impossible to experience it all in just a few days. Choosing a hotel with easy access is important to efficiently visit the various spots. We recommend "THE BLOSSOM KYOTO ," which is conveniently located just a two-minute walk from Gojo Station, and also boasts sophisticated facilities and delicious cuisine.
When you visit Kyoto, be sure to use "THE BLOSSOM KYOTO " as your base and enjoy a luxurious and enriching trip.
Three reasons why we recommend "THE BLOSSOM KYOTO"
①Safe facilities for long-term stays
The hotel is equipped with facilities to make your stay even more comfortable, including a guest lounge, large public bath, and fitness center. Spending time in the guest lounge relaxing with a drink in hand and planning your sightseeing for the next day is a truly luxurious experience. There is also a laundry room with a security key, so you can use it with peace of mind. Even for long-term stays, the hotel's comprehensive facilities, which combine comfort and safety, will support your pleasant stay.
▶Business hours Guest lounge: 15:00-25:00 / 06:00-11:00 Large public bath: 15:00-25:00 / 6:00-9:00
②A wide range of room types and sophisticated facilities to make your luxurious trip a reality
One of the charms of THE BLOSSOM KYOTO is the wide variety of room types to choose from depending on your purpose and number of guests. From stays with family and friends to business use, all rooms are comfortable and stylish.
The guest rooms are designed in a modern Japanese style, with tatami flooring and traditional design elements creating a tranquil and relaxing atmosphere. Furthermore, the hospitality is evident in every detail, such as the "TABI SOCKS (Traditional Japanese Split Toe Socks)" that gently wrap around your feet and original coffee cups made by a potter, making your stay even more special.
Surrounded by the exquisitely designed interior, your stay in Kyoto will be one of a kind, colored by the depth and sophistication of its culture.
A quiet lobby where you can enjoy the tranquility of travel
Deluxe Force Nagomi can accommodate up to 4 people
3. Excellent access and abundant surrounding facilities
"THE BLOSSOM KYOTO" is conveniently located just a two-minute walk from Gojo Station, which is just one subway stop from Kyoto Station. Not only is it highly convenient, but it is also located right next door to the 24-hour supermarket Fresco, making it easy to stock up on ingredients and daily necessities. There are also drugstores and 100-yen shops within walking distance of the hotel, making it a safe place for those last-minute shopping needs. We offer a comfortable and convenient stay as a base for sightseeing in Kyoto.
From JR Hakata Station, change to the Shinkansen at Takeo and it's one stop away from Ureshino Onsen Station, from where it's about a 7-minute drive.
Ureshino Onsen Station on the Nishikyushu Shinkansen line, which opened in 2022.
It is convenient to take the express train from Hakata Station and then transfer to the Shinkansen at Takeo Onsen Station on the same platform. It takes about 1 hour and 10 minutes to get to Ureshino Onsen Station from Hakata Station.
Please feel free to use the free shuttle bus operated by Ureshino Yasohachi from JR Ureshino Onsen Station. (Reservations required up to the day before: Ureshino Onsen Station → Ureshino Yasohachi A. Departs at 14:30 B. Departs at 15:20 C. Departs at 16:20)
It takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes from Fukuoka area such as Hakata Station and Fukuoka Airport via expressway. It takes about 30 minutes from Nagasaki Airport.
Get off the highway at Ureshino Interchange and it's about a 5-minute drive to Ureshino Yasohachi!
[If coming by express bus]
If you take the "Kyushu-go" express bus, which departs from Hakata Station or Fukuoka Airport International Terminal, you will arrive at Ureshino Onsen in about two hours.
Although there are fewer buses running, there are some that will get you off at Ureshino Bus Center, which is conveniently located just a three-minute walk from Ureshino Yasohachi.
Even if you are taking a bus that does not stop at Ureshino Bus Center but does stop at Ureshino Interchange, we will pick you up free of charge if you contact us in advance, so please feel free to use our service!
An all-inclusive plan is available for guests staying in the annex.
With Ureshino Yasohachi's all-inclusive plan, you can enjoy a welcome glass of sparkling wine, fruit platters and sweets, drinks from your room's fridge, drinks during dinner, cocktails made with tea available at the bar, and a tea ceremony where you can leisurely savor Ureshino tea, all at no extra charge.
The highest grade villa luxury suite room is equipped with a half open-air bath with 100% natural hot spring water, as well as a private sauna and cold bath where you can enjoy self-loyly with tea aromas, allowing you to enjoy a variety of things centered around Ureshino tea and hot springs. Guests who stay here often say, "One night is not enough time!"
2. 100% natural hot spring water
Ureshino Onsen is one of Japan's three most famous hot springs for beautiful skin, and is characterized by its colorless, transparent water and smooth texture.
Baking soda springs, which contain a lot of sodium, emulsify and wash away skin and secretions, and it is said that after bathing you will be left with smooth, silky, beautiful skin, as if you have just peeled off a layer.
All 36 rooms at Ureshino Yasohachi are equipped with 100% natural hot springs that can be enjoyed 24 hours a day. In addition to the rooms, you can also enjoy 100% natural hot springs in the open-air baths and sauna on the first floor of the main building.
3. Tea ceremony by a dedicated tea master
Ureshino tea has hundreds of years of history and a deep flavor that has been handed down through the generations.
At Ureshino Yasohachi, we hold tea ceremonies every day, with the assistance of two active Ureshino tea farmers, Kitano Shuichi, the third generation owner of Kitano Tea Farm, and Tanaka Hiroshi, the third generation owner of Tanaka Tea Factory, as our exclusive tea masters.
The tea master himself will explain the culture and history of tea, how to brew and taste tea, how to choose sweets, and more, allowing guests to experience the beauty of "tea" right in front of their eyes.
Business hours: 15:00-18:00 (starts every hour and half past the hour, last admission 17:30)
3,300 yen per person (tax included) (free for all-inclusive plan customers)
Maximum of 6 people per session. Please note that a tea master other than our dedicated tea master may be in charge.
4. Meals made with abundant ingredients from within 88 km of Ureshino
The head chef personally visits producers over the course of a year to carefully select the seafood and mountain produce. Please enjoy to your heart's content our proud dishes made with the most carefully selected ingredients.
[Prix fixe course meal]
Dinner is served as a prix fixe menu. Guests can choose three dishes, including a main course, from three to five different menus according to their preference.
*From July 2025, the prix fixe kaiseki dinner will be available only to guests staying in the annex. Guests staying in the main house will be served the Yasohachi Basic Kaiseki and Yasohachi Special Selection Kaiseki, carefully selected by the head chef according to the season.
[Charcoal grilled counter banquet]
You can order your favorite dishes from a selection of seasonal ingredients that change daily, depending on how you feel that day. Enjoy your meal while chatting with the chef, feeling the excitement of watching the food being prepared right in front of you.
*The charcoal grilled counter banquet is an exclusive plan for guests staying in the Annex Luxury Suite rooms.
Breakfast
We have a set menu that is perfect for waking up in the morning, including Ureshino Yasohachi's original hot spring tofu, made from 100% Saga Prefecture soybeans and Fukuyutaka, and a fresh, locally grown raw vegetable salad. You can choose from Japanese or Western cuisine.
*Depending on the plan and date of stay, only Japanese breakfast may be available.
5. A shop selling tea, snacks and miscellaneous goods from within 88 km of Ureshino
We offer a wide range of products, including Ureshino tea which can be enjoyed during tea ceremonies and throughout the hotel, sweets and miscellaneous goods made with ingredients from within 88 kilometers of Ureshino, amenities such as lotions in the rooms, and original products that can only be purchased at Ureshino Yasohachi.
6. A bar where you can enjoy cocktails made with tea
At BAR Chatsubo, you can spend some time relaxing and sipping tea and tea cocktails while gazing at the water garden.
The space exudes a stately atmosphere, using building materials and fixtures from the villa of the Omura clan that once stood on this land.
7. Children are welcome! Kids Room
At Ureshino Yadoya, we want children to enjoy their stay while experiencing tea, so we have prepared a kids' room on the first floor of the main building. It is called the Children's Tea Room "Ochanoko Saisai."
In addition to a kids' room with picture books, toys, and colorful hanging chairs where children can play, there is also a space where children can casually enjoy tea.
In addition to picture books for children, we also have books for parents, so please come and spend some quality time with your family.
8. A dry sauna with a subtle tea scent and a loyly sauna with tea aroma
The men's and women's baths are each equipped with a tea aroma auto-loyly sauna and a dry sauna with a tea incense burner.
After soaking in the beauty-enhancing waters of Ureshino Onsen, refresh yourself in the sauna surrounded by the aroma of tea, then enjoy an outdoor bath with a pleasant breeze.
During your stay, in addition to the hot spring in your room, why not relax your body and mind in the open-air bath and sauna?
Q: How can I access the hotel from the airport or major stations?
A: Please refer to the top of this article.
Q: Is there parking? Does it cost money?
A: There are 40 parking spaces for a total of 36 rooms. Reservations are not required and parking is free.
Q: Is Wi-Fi available for free?
A: Yes, you can use it free of charge throughout the hotel and in your guest room.
Q: Is there support in foreign languages?
A. We have native English and Korean speaking staff.
If native staff are not available, we will assist you using translation apps, etc.
Q: What is the cancellation policy?
A. 14 to 8 days before: 30% of the accommodation fee, 7 to 2 days before: 50% of the accommodation fee, the day before: 80% of the accommodation fee, the day of the check-in: 100% of the accommodation fee.
Jabara is a uniquely sour citrus fruit native to Kitayama Village in Higashimuro District, in Wakayama Prefecture. Kitayama known as Japan's only "enclave village", not bordering any other municipality in Wakayama, and jabara reflects this distinctive environment.
It is a naturally occurring hybrid fruit that grew wild in the area. A survey was conducted in 1971, and full-scale cultivation began in 1972 with the support of the village.
The name "Jabara" is said to come from the idea that it's "so sour that it drives away evil spirits". Its defining flavor is a sharp sourness followed by a subtle bitterness. The harvest season is mainly form November to December.
"Jabara" for Hay Fever
The Kitayama Village strengthened its online sales and, based on consumer feedback "It Helps Deal With Hay Fever". After conducting further research, it was found that jabara has properties that suppress degranulation, a process often linked to hay fever symptoms. In 2003, part of this effect was presented at the Japan Society for Food Chemistry and Engineering, gaining popular media attention and significantly increasing its orders.
Photo courtesy of Wakayama Prefecture Tourism Federation
Flavor, Nutrients, and Culinary Enjoyment
Jabara is rich in juice content, highly aromatic, and easy to handle due to its fewer seeds. Its flavor is characterized by a sharp sourness followed by a gentle bitterness. It contains a high amount of naringin, a type of flavonoid, especially in the peel, which has more than six times the amount found in the juice. Its uses range from flavoring hot pot dishes and grilled fish, to enjoying its scent in aromatherapy. It's has gained its name as the "miracle fruit" due to these. Many products now utilize he peel, including jams, ponzu sauce, sweets, and soaps from these extracted oils. These items are designed to be incorporated into daily lives regardless of season or occasion.
Now that we've introduced the charm of "Jabara", let's move on to "experience" it! From the initial sharp sourness to the refreshing aromatic finish, this one citrus fruit can elevate various meals and snacks. Here are a few Jabara-based products!
100% Jabara Juice
Kitayama Village Jabara Jam
Kitayama Village Jabara Juice Candy
The village has developed and marketed a wide variety of processed products using jabara juice and peel, including jams, vinegars, ponzu, sweets, aromatherapy items, and soaps. Enjoy jabara in cooking, drinks, and even for beauty and health.
Enjoy it in a variety of ways, including cooking, drinking, and even for beauty and health.
There are still many attractive products to discover! If you'd like to learn more, please visit the "Kumano Drive-In"! You can also browse various products on their online shop below.
View of Lake Biwa from Chikubushima Island, Nagahama City. Photo by Pixta
Our exploration of Japan's HAKKO fermented food culture led us to the shores of Lake Biwa. The lake is easily accessible from Nagoya via Shinkansen and local trains.
As Japan's largest and one of the world's oldest lakes, Lake Biwa is a crucial source of water and food for the surrounding communities. The local climate is also perfect for fermentation, making the region a hub for this ancient practice.
The area is most famous for narezushi, a traditional dish that ferments fish from the lake with rice for several months. Born out of the need to preserve food before refrigeration, this unique dish is considered the origin of modern sushi.
Water from Lake Biwa is crucial for producing some of Japan's most essential fermented foods, including sake, soy sauce (shoyu), and miso paste. The region is also famous for its fermented cheeses and pickles. Over time, the variety of local fermented foods grew and diversified.
This two-day food-themed itinerary focuses on the cities along Lake Biwa's eastern shore. It features a curated selection of restaurants and facilities where you can taste exceptional cuisine made with fermented ingredients, offering unique insights into Japan's rich food culture.
Korian: Savor a Fresh Take on Funazushi, a Fermented Variety of Sushi
Our first recommendation for your culinary journey around Lake Biwa is Korian, a restaurant in the former port town of Kaizu, Takashima.
Korian specializes in refined kaiseki cuisine that reimagines funazushi for the modern palate. Funazushi, a type of narezushi, is a traditional fermented sushi made with Lake Biwa's crucian carp. The fish is salted and fermented with boiled rice for two years before it's served, resulting in a unique and complex flavor.
At Korian, owner and head chef Sazaki Kensuke skillfully carries on a family legacy. His family has run the Uoji funazushi specialty shop in the Kaizu district for generations, and now, he proudly promotes this tradition through his sophisticated cuisine.
Stepping into Korian, the first thing you'll notice is the stunning interior with high windows that offer an unobstructed view of Lake Biwa. The dining area is separated from the water only by a short veranda (engawa), making you feel as though you're dining right above the lake. This remarkable space was designed by the chef's younger brother.
The large windows allow guests to watch the lake's scenery change with each passing hour and season. Outside, wooden pillars remain from the old port, serving as resting spots for herons, seagulls, and wild ducks. This serene view is an essential part of the Korian experience, filling guests with a sense of wonder and reconnecting them with nature.
Each dish in the course is served one by one, with the chef taking a moment to explain its background and highlight an aspect of Lake Biwa's rich food culture. You'll discover fascinating details, like how the funa (crucian carp) lays its eggs in the very water used to irrigate the rice paddies. This means that a dish of crucian carp and rice essentially comes from the same place—the rice paddy itself.
The menu allows you to experience the full range of funazushi. The appetizer features funa no kozuke, a small dish of crucian carp coated with roe. Afterward, you can taste a piece of full-fledged funazushi along kosode-zushi made with Biwa trout; on one plate, you can enjoy and compare a variety of dishes. You might be surprised by the sharp taste of funazushi, which is a direct result of the rice fermentation process and can remind you of sake or sake lees.
Other dishes in the course demonstrate the chef's creativity and skill by featuring funazushi in surprising ways. You'll encounter dishes that challenge your expectations, such as a pasta with a creamy sauce that looks like cheese but is actually made from funazushi. This mild and soothing flavor reveals a different, more gentle side of the fermented dish.
The final savory dish is a bowl of ochazuke, rice topped with dashi broth flavored with funazushi, offering one more testament to the ingredient's versatility and the wide range of flavors it can produce.
The kaiseki course at Korian also features other local fish, such as Biwa trout and sweetfish, and fermented ingredients like locally made soy sauce. Feel free to ask the Sazakis for sake recommendations to pair with your meal. A sip of the right sake can transform the flavors in your mouth, adding another layer to this exceptional culinary experience.
Please note that the restaurant is reservation-only. International visitors are encouraged to use a reservation service with an interpreter for a smoother experience.
Umi no Schole: A Fermentation Hub Featuring a New World of Flavors
Located in the central Nagahama City shopping street since it opened in December 2021, Umi no Schole is a complex focused on the diverse fermented foods of the Lake Biwa area.
Designed to inspire visitors with the wisdom of local life, the facility features on-site production rooms that connect guests directly to the region's natural environment and its producers. By tasting and experiencing these goods, visitors can gain a deeper understanding of the people and processes behind them, fostering a desire for further learning.
Umino-Schole is a multifaceted complex featuring a variety of spaces for visitors to explore. It includes a spacious store with a curated selection of furniture, fashion, homeware, and antiques; a 42-seat cafe serving a menu of local cuisine with on-site made cheese and miso; a cheese factory that uses fresh milk from Shiga's renowned Ibuki Milk Farm to create original products; and a workshop area where guests can get hands-on experience making miso and other fermented foods.
The complex also houses a gallery, a bookstore, and the Happy Taro Brewery, which crafts original doburoku (unfiltered sake), miso, and amazake from handmade koji.
We recommend starting your visit at the cafe to enjoy a delicious meal or coffee break. The menu features dishes like curry rice, sandwiches, and desserts that highlight the best of local produce, as well as unique cheeses made on-site. Every bite is a testament to the staff's dedication to promoting Lake Biwa's remarkable fermentation culture.
After your meal, take some time to browse the charming shop and gallery for a souvenir. We highly recommend the on-site cheeses, which are not only exceptionally good but also truly unique. You can try the Miso Fromage, which blends the flavors of miso and cheese, or the Takesumi Fromage, which is wrapped on the outside in bamboo charcoal and has a creamy, smooth texture inside.
A bottle of doburoku (unfiltered sake) from the Happy Taro Brewery is another excellent choice. The brewery makes an incredible variety of original doburoku flavors using herbs, fruits, and spices. You'll find a range of options, from varieties with different alcohol contents to completely non-alcoholic amazake.
To truly immerse yourself in the local food and culture, we recommend staying overnight in Nagahama. The city offers several excellent hotels and traditional inns (ryokan) along the shore of Lake Biwa.
The central shopping street is a great place to explore local crafts and cuisine. Be sure to visit Kurokabe Square, home to the Kurokabe Glass Shop, a well-known spot housed in a former bank building that features glassware; you can admire and purchase a wide range of pieces, from beautiful works crafted by Japanese artisans to renowned glass art from around the world.
Across from the shop, a cafe serves a rich, chocolate-flavored soft-serve ice cream inspired by the "black walls" of the former bank. We also recommend a visit to the Nagahama Hikiyama Museum to see hikiyama floats and objects from the city's famous annual festival, held every April. There's so much to discover here that you'll definitely want to extend your stay.
A Side Trip to Hikone for History and Scenic Views
Midway between Nagahama and our next destination, Omihachiman, is the city of Hikone, known for its remarkably well-preserved castle. We recommend a stop here for a glimpse into the history of Edo-period Japan and the vital role Lake Biwa played during times of unrest.
Hikone Castle was the seat of the influential Ii clan during the Edo period (1603-1868). The Ii clan was a powerful vassal of Tokugawa Ieyasu at the Battle of Sekigahara (1600). This battle led to Tokugawa becoming shogun, ending decades of internal conflict and changing the course of Japanese history.
The castle's strategic design, with its defensive walls, moats, and hidden archers' openings, showcases a blend of medieval and later Edo-era features. It is believed that many parts of the structure were actually relocated from older castles, such as Otsu and Sawayama. For instance, after Otsu Castle fell, sections were transported across Lake Biwa to Hikone and reused to fortify and expand the new castle.
The Ii clan were not only powerful leaders but also refined patrons of the arts, particularly known for their practice of Noh theater and the tea ceremony. This cultural legacy is beautifully preserved at Genkyuen, a large Japanese garden located on the grounds of Hikone Castle.
The garden can be explored by walking around its central pond, where you can admire the changing beauty of each season. We recommend spending at least an hour here, as the garden also provides superb vantage points for photographing Hikone Castle.
La Collina Omihachiman: Relish Sweet Treats and Nature
La Collina Omihachiman is the flagship store for two renowned Japanese confectioners: Taneya, which specializes in traditional sweets, and Club Harie, a Western confectionery store famous for its Baumkuchen. Upon arrival, you'll feel as though you've stepped into a house from a fairytale world.
The concept of the store is "learning from nature," which is perfectly embodied by the unique, grass-covered roof of the main shop. This living roof blends seamlessly with the surrounding rice paddies and the mountain behind it.
The entire property is filled with playful and imaginative touches, inviting guests to enjoy both sweets and nature in a single, magical experience.
The shops at La Collina offer a wide array of freshly made confections. You can choose from seasonal wagashi (traditional Japanese sweets) to a variety of Western-style treats, including castella and Baumkuchen.
Throughout the grounds, several cafes allow visitors to sample these treats. We recommend the Yakitate Taneya Castella Set offered at Castella Cafe, which lets you savor the fresh-baked texture and rich egg flavor of the famous castella.
For those who prefer savory options, the menu also includes dishes like Omurice, made with the same specialty eggs used for the castella.
One of the most exciting parts of La Collina is the opportunity to see the iconic sweets being made. Visitors can peek into the Baum factories and watch skilled artisans masterfully baking Baumkuchen. The freshly baked cakes can be purchased to take home, but you can also enjoy them at the on-site café.
At the heart of the site are rice paddies and fields set up so that visitors can actually see rice and seasonal vegetables growing. We recommend setting aside at least two to three hours to explore La Collina, savor the natural scenery, and enjoy the delicious on-site treats. The experience is like returning to childhood, a time when everything seems new and full of wonder.
Enjoy Shiga’s Fermented Food Culture and Splendid Scenery
By the end of your two-day trip, you will have a deep appreciation for the variety of fermented foods around Lake Biwa and their cultural significance. Before the introduction of refrigerators, fermentation was indispensable to locals, as it not only preserved food but also expanded the range of flavors of an ingredient or a dish.
To begin your journey, we recommend traveling from Nagoya to Maibara by Shinkansen, then transferring to a local train and heading north toward Takashima. From this point, a special trip begins where you can experience the fermented-food culture of Lake Biwa and enjoy its beautiful scenery.
Located at the entrance to Yubara Onsen, Footbath Park features the spacious "Hanzaki Foot Bath," approximately 26 meters wide. "Hanzaki (Japanese Giant Salamander) " is the local name for the Japanese giant Japanese Giant Salamander , a nationally designated Special Natural Monument . The name comes from a legend that it "continues to live even after being torn in half." Hanzaki (Japanese Giant Salamander) is the mascot character at Yubara Onsen , and at Footbath Park, visitors are greeted by an art object called "Hanzaki-san Cooling Down in a Bath," created for the 2019 art event " Mimasaka Three Hot Springs Art Temperature."
* "Mimasaka Three Hot Springs Art Temperature" is a contemporary art exhibition held every three years in three famous hot spring resorts in the region.
Address: 59 Maniwa City, Okayama Prefecture Yubara Onsen
"YUBARA BASE" is a private guesthouse with a foot bath.
Yubara Onsen is home to a guesthouse called "YUBARA BASE," which can be rented out entirely to one group per day. The unique design allows hot spring water to flow through the rooms, and there is a foot bath with free-flowing hot spring water exclusively for guests. This is a popular accommodation option for foreign tourists as well.
If you stay overnight, you can enjoy the soothing scenery at any time. You can also enjoy a foot bath in your room, and if you feel sleepy, you can relax in your bedroom.
Indoor barbecue facilities
The first floor is equipped with facilities for indoor barbecues, so you can enjoy them regardless of the weather. You can bring your favorite ingredients and enjoy them, and hot pot cooking is also available. The property is fully equipped with a kitchen, microwave, refrigerator, cooking utensils, and tableware, so you can stay here empty-handed except for the ingredients. As a special perk for guests, the locally popular "Yubara Pudding" will be provided for each guest.
[YUBARA BASE]
Address: 111-3 Maniwa City, Okayama Prefecture Yubara Onsen
"Rojiura 9-Banchi" - A canelé specialty shop run by a popular bakery
"Rojiura 9-Banchi" is a canelé specialty shop run by "Logic," a popular bakery in Soja City. It is located next to "Yubara Base." The canelés and sweets made by this popular, high-quality bakery are guaranteed to be of high quality.
*Canelés are a traditional baked confectionery that originated in the Bordeaux region of France. They are characterized by a crispy, fragrant exterior and a chewy interior.
The luxury of enjoying sweets in a foot bath
This time, I ordered some canelés and a drink to take away, and enjoyed delicious sweets and a foot bath at the Hanzaki Foot Bath, located just below the shop, in the best possible mood.
[Rojiura 9-Banchi]
Address: 111-3 Maniwa City, Okayama Prefecture Yubara Onsen
Seasonal waffle specialty store "Howaffuru Waffle Shop"
We ordered some popular takeout waffles from the cute riverside shop "Howaffuru Waffle Shop." Waffles made with seasonal fruits are popular, and at the time of our visit, they were selling blueberry waffles. Custard waffles can be enjoyed all year round.
There is a "Hanzaki Foot Bath" on the riverbed just below the store, so you can enjoy your feet in the footbath immediately after purchasing.
[ Howaffuru Waffle Shop]
Address: 94-1 Maniwa City, Okayama Prefecture Yubara Onsen
Freshly fried croquettes from a butcher shop, "Hisamoto Butcher Shop"
The croquettes at Hisamoto Butcher Shop, located along the river, are freshly fried, hot, and have a fluffy texture that will whet your appetite. They are only sold on weekdays, but enjoying a foot bath with a croquette in hand was a wonderful experience.
* Croquettes are a popular Japanese dish made by mashing boiled potatoes, shaping them, and then coating them in breadcrumbs and frying them. They are originally a Japanese adaptation of the French dish Croquette.
[Hisamoto Butcher Shop]
Address: 111 Maniwa City, Okayama Prefecture , Yubara Onsen
❄️Go on a dream ski trip! Hokkaido & Nagano ski tour with Fuji Dream Airlines❄️
Enjoy two of Japan's biggest snow resorts at once with Fuji Dream Airlines. The finest powder snow and spectacular winter scenery await you.
Hokkaido: The world's most enviable powder snow
Hokkaido skiing is attractive for its vast slopes and snow quality that are the envy of skiers from all over the world, such as Niseko, Furano, and Rusutsu. You can enjoy the finest powder snow to your heart's content. After skiing, you can also soothe your body and mind with Hokkaido gourmet food and hot springs.
Nagano: Spectacular Alpine views and a variety of slopes
Hakuba is a full-scale ski resort that was also the site of the 1998 Winter Olympics. It offers a variety of courses that can be enjoyed by beginners and advanced skiers alike, and boasts magnificent views of the Northern Alps. We also recommend spending some time relaxing in the historic hot spring town.
Enjoy two major skiing experiences at FDA! Safe luggage! Free ski storage available.
You can travel at a great price by using FDA's "Japan Dream Fare." You can also check in up to 20kg of ski and snowboard luggage for free. This service is perfect for ski trips, so you can enjoy Japan's snow resorts.
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.
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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
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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
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.
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