Things to Do
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![Matsuyama Castle, an iconic symbol of Matsuyama City]()
Ehime
Tourist Attractions
Matsuyama Castle
4.68 921 Important Cultural Properties Including the Castle Tower. The Symbol of Matsuyama City, Also Famous as an Impregnable Castle.
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A Travel Guide to Matsuyama Castle: An Impregnable Fortress Still Standing from the Edo Period
Famed as a masterpiece of castle architecture and an impregnable fortress, Matsuyama Castle is a symbol of Matsuyama City in Ehime Prefecture and a popular sightseeing spot for Ehime travel. Don’t miss the breathtaking views from the main keep and the many historic structures that have survived since the Edo period. To help you make the most of Matsuyama Castle, we’ll introduce its top highlights as well as recommended nearby spots.
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[Dogo Onsen Travel Guide] Soak in Japan’s Oldest Hot Spring and Timeless Atmosphere
Among Japan’s many hot spring destinations, Dogo Onsen stands out for its especially long history. It’s even mentioned in the Nihon Shoki, compiled in 720, and is considered one of the oldest hot springs in Japan. From essential details to recommended ryokan and local eats, here’s a thorough look at what makes Dogo Onsen so special.
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Matsuyama Travel Guide: Top Attractions, Hidden Gems, Food, and Souvenirs
Matsuyama City in Ehime Prefecture has a great selection of historic sites to visit, such as the nation’s oldest hot spring retreat, the Dogo Onsen, and Matsuyama Castle, a symbol of the city. As most sites are near Matsuyama Station and the Dogo Onsen, you can easily visit several in one day. Here, we will introduce our most highly recommended sites in Matsuyama.
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![The Great Buddha Hall, one of the largest wooden structures in the world
Photo Credit: Todaiji Temple]()
Nara
Shrines & Temples
Todaiji Temple
4.67 18The temple was built in the Nara period (710-794) and is registered as a World Heritage Site as a "cultural asset of the ancient capital Nara”.
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A Travel Guide to Gango-ji, Japan’s Oldest Full-Scale Buddhist Temple
The UNESCO World Heritage-listed “Gango-ji” is home to many buildings and Buddhist statues designated as National Treasures and Important Cultural Properties. Often said to be the birthplace of Japanese Buddhism, it is renowned as a temple of great historical and cultural value. From the “East Gate,” the main gate, to highlights such as the “Main Hall” and other grounds buildings, there is plenty to see, and seasonal flowers charm visitors year-round. This article introduces everything you need to enjoy “Gango-ji,” from its history to recommended sightseeing spots-use it as a helpful reference.
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A Tōdai-ji Travel Guide to Timeless History and Culture
Tōdai-ji, famous for the Great Buddha of Nara. Beyond its many historic structures designated as National Treasures and Important Cultural Properties, the temple also offers easy-to-join Buddhist experiences like sutra copying and Buddha image tracing that can help calm the mind. Don’t miss the daily “Eleven-Faced Goma Fire Ritual Prayer” and the Tōdai-ji Museum, where you can learn more about its history. Here’s the history and must-see spots to know so you can fully enjoy Tōdai-ji, packed with highlights.
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![Osaka’s thriving downtown area.
(C)Osaka Convention & Tourism Bureau]()
Osaka
Famous Places
Dotonbori
4.65 23The “eat ‘till you drop” foodie destination marked by the larger than life signboard.
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Feast on Osaka’s Best Bites: A Guide to Kuromon Ichiba Market
Known as “Osaka’s Kitchen,” the massive shopping street Kuromon Ichiba Market is packed with carefully selected ingredients. Around 150 shops line this lively arcade, where you can enjoy shopping and outstanding seafood to your heart’s content. Here’s what to eat at the food-walkers’ paradise Kuromon Ichiba Market, plus other shopping streets to enjoy nearby. Use this guide and you’ll be able to enjoy Kuromon Ichiba Market to the fullest.
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Enjoy Osaka’s Iconic Scenery and Food! A Dotonbori Sightseeing Guide
Known as the “Nation’s Kitchen,” Dotonbori has a long history of helping shape Japan’s food culture, with rows of warehouse residences during the Edo period. It is still known as a “city of indulgent eating,” where you can enjoy Osaka specialties and many other outstanding dishes. Beyond the food, the area is also home to iconic Osaka scenery and popular sightseeing spots, making it a must-visit destination in Osaka. Here is an introduction to sightseeing spots, restaurants, and nearby areas worth visiting along with Dotonbori.
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![World Heritage Site: Itsukushima Shrine]()
Hiroshima
Shrines & Temples
Itsukushima Shrine
4.65 23A Shrine Registered as a World Heritage Site as of 1996.
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One of Japan’s Top Scenic Spots! 9 Must-Visit Miyajima Attractions
Miyajima is one of Japan’s Three Scenic Views. The mystical, grand scenery created by Itsukushima Shrine and Mt. Misen is exceptionally beautiful. Of course, Miyajima is also filled with other great attractions, local food, and places to stay. In this article, we’ll introduce Miyajima’s sightseeing spots, gourmet food, and accommodations-use it to help plan your trip.
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[Itsukushima Shrine Travel Guide] Visit a Breathtaking View Where Grand Nature and a Shrine Blend in Harmony
Famous for its iconic torii gate rising from the sea, “Itsukushima Shrine” is a symbol of Miyajima. With spectacular scenery where Miyajima’s grand nature and beautiful architecture come together, it welcomes countless visitors every day. To fully enjoy the many charms of “Itsukushima Shrine,” use this article to preview the highlights, the best seasons to visit, and nearby food and sightseeing spots.
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The Timeless Charm of Japan’s Three Great Views: Matsushima, Amanohashidate, and Miyajima
Known for their beautiful seas and nature, Japan’s Three Great Views are sometimes called “nature’s sculpted beauty.” Even if you’ve heard the phrase, many people aren’t quite sure which landscapes it refers to. In this article, we’ll introduce where Japan’s Three Great Views are and what makes each one special-perfect for anyone who’s new to the topic.
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!["First Avenue Tokyo Station" is a concentration of attractions not only in Tokyo but also in all of Japan.]()
Tokyo Station, Nihonbashi, Marunouchi
Shopping Streets
First Avenue Tokyo Station
4.64 11Directly connected to "Tokyo Station", the gateway to Japan, this commercial facility is filled with the charms of Japan.
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How to enjoy First Avenue Tokyo Station that you can only buy, experience, and enjoy here
This article focuses on "First Avenue Tokyo Station (First Avenue Tokyo Station)", a commercial facility inside Tokyo Station that attracts specialty products and gourmet foods not only from Tokyo but from all over Japan.
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Tokyo's best restaurants in one place! “Tokyo Ramen Street”, where you could go for a week and never get bored!
Directly connected to Tokyo Station, just outside the Yaesu Underground Central Exit ticket gate, Tokyo Ramen Street is home to eight of Tokyo's best-known ramen stores, offering a different genre of ramen every day of the week, even if you go for a week. With not only popular and classic menus from famous restaurants, but also menus exclusive to Tokyo Ramen Street, it is no exaggeration to say that you can fully enjoy Tokyo's ramen here alone.
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A lot of experiences that you can only have here! "Tokyo Okashi Land"
"Tokyo Okashi Land" is directly connected to Tokyo Station, just outside the "Tokyo Station Yaesu Central Exit ticket gate". Antenna stores of "Ezaki Glico," "Morinaga Seika," "Calbee," and "Kameda Seika," all of which are nationally popular confectionery manufacturers, are located here, where you can not only purchase limited products but also enjoy unique experiences.
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![Akashi Kaikyo Bridge]()
Kobe
Tourist Attractions
Akashi Kaikyo Bridge
4.64 11This is the world's longest suspension bridge connecting Honshu and Awaji Island, and is a beautiful bridge nicknamed the Pearl Bridge.
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Complete Guide to Visiting Naruto: a Full Line-up of Must-See Spots!
Naruto is known for its world-class, oversized whirlpool currents, unforgettable tourism, and delicious eats. But with so much to do there are still plenty of visitors who aren’t sure what to see on their trip. If that’s you, we’ve got you covered. Below you’ll find a full overview of Naruto’s best spots to help you build a travel plan that’s custom fit to you.
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A complete guide to Awaji Island! From major and hidden tourist spots to gourmet foods and souvenirs
Awaji Island, a wonderful resort area where you can enjoy beautiful flowers, an endless ocean and fresh produce grown in the abundant nature. It is a popular tourist spot among visitors from both Japan and overseas with its easy access from the Kansai region. There are so many places to introduce on this island full of entertainment. Let's get started!
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![Cherry Blossoms and the Pagoda with Mount Fuji]()
Yamanashi
Shrines & Temples
Arakurayama Sengen Park
4.64 11A Popular Spot for Sakura Cherry Blossoms, a Pagoda and Mount Fuji.
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A Guide to Arakura Fuji Sengen Shrine: Panoramic Views Full of Japanese Charm
Arakura Fuji Sengen Shrine is a scenic spot where you can take in a quintessentially Japanese view, with Mount Fuji, one of Japan’s most iconic symbols, beautifully framed by a torii gate and cherry blossoms. This article introduces access to Arakura Fuji Sengen Shrine, highlights within the grounds, and nearby sightseeing spots. Read this before your visit to enjoy Arakura Fuji Sengen Shrine even more.
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Enjoy Nature in All Seasons! Top 17 Popular Tourist Spots Around Lake Kawaguchiko
Lake Kawaguchiko, where you can see the “upside-down Fuji,” one of Japan's most scenic views, is easily accessible from the city center and is a popular tourist destination for enjoying the natural scenery throughout the seasons. There are accommodations where you can soak in open-air hot springs with views of Mt. Fuji and dining options where you can savor Yamanashi's gourmet cuisine, offering a variety of enjoyable experiences.
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Experience the Breathtaking Beauty of the Mountains! 32 Tourist Spots in Yamanashi
Surrounded by majestic mountains such as Mt. Fuji, Yatsugatake, and the Southern Alps, Yamanashi offers stunning views in every season. The picturesque landscapes featuring Mt. Fuji and the lakes are a must-see. In this article, we'll introduce you to the best spots to enjoy Yamanashi's natural beauty, along with recommended accommodations, dining, and shopping areas.
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![Boasting a height of 634 meters, TOKYO SKYTREE is the symbol of Tokyo
©TOKYO-SKYTREE]()
Asakusa, Tokyo Skytree
Observatories
TOKYO SKYTREE(R)
TOKYO SKYTREE TOWN(R)4.61 38Take in Panoramic Views from 634 Meters Up! This Tower is in a Commercial Complex with Entertainment Facilities.
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[Tokyo Skytree Travel Guide] Enjoy One-of-a-Kind Views and Experiences You Can Only Have Here
Tokyo Skytree is Tokyo’s newest symbol and one of its top attractions. Only here can you take in the entire metropolis from the world’s tallest tower. The skyline spread out below is truly breathtaking. With dining, shopping, and plenty of entertainment options, there are many ways to enjoy your visit. In this guide, we’ll take a closer look at what makes Tokyo Skytree special, plus the can’t-miss highlights to help you make the most of your trip.
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Best Places to Enjoy Tokyo Skytree Night Views: 12 Stunning Viewpoints
Tokyo Skytree, the world’s tallest freestanding broadcasting tower at 634 meters, is one of Tokyo’s most popular attractions, drawing visitors from Japan and abroad. The views from its observation decks are breathtaking, and on a clear day you can see across the Kanto Plain. With shopping, great food, and even an aquarium, Tokyo Skytree has plenty to offer. And one of its biggest highlights is the Tokyo Skytree night view. The city skyline seen from Skytree, plus the illuminated tower itself, are must-sees when sightseeing in Tokyo. In this article, we’ve handpicked the best spots to enjoy Tokyo Skytree night views to the fullest.
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Experience Tokyo’s "Now" and "Then" in a Day! 7 Must-Visit Spots Around Tokyo Skytree
Tokyo Skytree is a modern landmark and a popular destination that showcases Japan's latest technology and trends through its impressive height and expansive facilities. At the same time, Sumida Ward, where Tokyo Skytree stands, and nearby Asakusa offer numerous spots where you can experience traditional Japanese culture within walking distance.
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![The main hall at a plateau 251m above sea level]()
Kagawa
Shrines & Temples
Kotohiragu Shrine
4.60 10Known as "Konpira-san," it is one of the most famous spiritual spots in Shikoku.
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[Ritsurin Garden Visitor Guide] A Scenic Spot Where You Can Experience Japanese Atmosphere and Culture
Ritsurin Garden is a place where you can enjoy scenery full of Japanese charm and experience Japanese culture across its vast grounds. It changes with the seasons, and even a short walk reveals landscapes with different kinds of beauty. Here is useful information to know before your visit, including the best seasons to go and the garden’s highlights.
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Plenty to Enjoy Even on a Short Trip! 9 Classic Kagawa Attractions
Kagawa is Japan’s smallest prefecture by area, so even with a short stay you can fully enjoy must-see sights like historic shrines and castles, plus beautiful natural scenery. The remote islands floating in the Seto Inland Sea, such as Shodoshima and Naoshima, are also part of Kagawa’s appeal. If you’re sightseeing in this charm-packed prefecture, here are the attractions, places to stay, and local food you won’t want to miss.
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![National important cultural property, Nishiromon Gate]()
Kyoto
Shrines & Temples
Yasaka Shrine
4.60 10An ancient shrine with over 1,300-year history since before the relocation of Japan’s capital to Heian-kyo, it is also known as the birthplace of the Gion Festival, and has been highly revered.
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[Yasaka Shrine Travel Guide] A Famous Kyoto Power Spot for Beauty, Connections, and Good Fortune
With a long and storied history, Kyoto’s Yasaka Shrine is the head shrine of Yasaka Shrines and Gion Shrines across Japan. Enshrining a variety of high-ranking deities, it’s known as one of Kyoto’s most famous power spots, even in a city filled with temples and shrines. Beyond that, the grounds are packed with historically valuable architecture and plenty of highlights. To help you fully enjoy Yasaka Shrine and receive its many blessings, we’ll introduce the main must-sees, the best seasons to visit, and noteworthy events.
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Experience Japan’s Timeless Charm, Woven from History and Nature: A Kiyomizu-dera Travel Guide
Kiyomizu-dera is one of Kyoto’s most popular sightseeing spots, as famous as Kinkaku-ji and Arashiyama. It’s packed with highlights, from many historically valuable buildings designated as National Treasures and Important Cultural Properties to beautiful natural scenery. To help you fully enjoy Kiyomizu-dera, one of Kyoto’s must-visit attractions, we’ll introduce not only the can’t-miss highlights, but also its history and the best seasons to visit.
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Kyoto in the fall - Illuminated Fall Foliage at Kodai-ji -
In this article, we will introduce you some pictures that were taken at Kodai-ji on November 28th 2010, during a time of night-time special viewing. The temple is in the walking distance from Yasaka-jinja and it is famous for a superb garden.
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![Lake Yamanaka is known as the closest lake to Mt.Fuji.]()
Yamanashi
Nature Spots
Lake Yamanaka(Yamanaka-ko)
4.60 15The closest lake to Mt.Fuji.
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[Shojiko Lake Travel Guide] Enjoy Spectacular Views Where Mt. Fuji and the Lake Meet
Shojiko Lake is one of the component assets of the Mt. Fuji World Cultural Heritage site. Although it is the smallest of the Fuji Five Lakes, it offers scenery unique to Shojiko Lake, where Mt. Fuji and natural beauty exist in perfect harmony. This article introduces ways to enjoy Shojiko Lake, also known as the Switzerland of the East, along with the charms of the Fuji Five Lakes you should visit together. Read this before your trip to make the most of Shojiko Lake.
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Lake Yamanaka, Yamanashi Prefecture - Sunset Shore & Autumn Leaves Festival
I went to Lake Yamanaka in Yamanashi Prefecture to photograph the autumn leaves. It was a 20-min bus ride from the Fujikyuko Line's Fujisan Station to the Lake Yamanakako: Asahigaoka bus stop...
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