Iwate Hanamaki Airport
As Iwate’s aerial gateway, this mid-sized airport operates regular domestic flights to Sapporo, Nagoya, Osaka, Kobe, and Fukuoka. Internationally, two weekly flights run to Taipei (as of July 2025, the Shanghai route remains suspended).
There weren't enough staff at the international service counter, so things moved a bit slowly.
Eizan Cable and Eizan Ropeway
Enjoy breathtaking views and easy connection from the ropeway and cable car that take you to the summit of Mt. Hiei from Yase in Kyoto.
Taking the cable car up to Mt. Hiei is super convenient and quick. You can see views of Kyoto along the way, and if you go in the right season, it's even more beautiful.
Sensoji Temple
This iconic destination in Asakusa sees as many as 30 million visitors each year. It stands as a well-loved mainstay in Tokyo, all while hosting a number of annual traditions like the first temple visit at New Years, Setsubun and more across the year.
The big red lantern hanging at Sensoji Temple is one of its most iconic features!
Nakanobu Shopping Street
A covered shopping arcade stretching approx. 300 m from Ebara-Nakanobu Station to Nakanobu Station. Dating back to the early Showa era, this local favorite sits in the heart of the city yet offers a relaxed shopping vibe, and is affectionately known as “Nakanobu Skip Road.” With a roof overhead, you can shop comfortably in any weather.
An old-school shopping street. Most of the people I saw were older. The one plus is the roof, so you don’t have to worry about getting rained on.
Hanamaki Minami Onsenkyo
Of the 12 hot spring resorts in Hanamaki, eight are located along the ravine in the western part of Hanamaki City and are called "Hanamaki Minami Onsenkyo". It is said that the bath opened 300 to 400 years ago and has a long history.
I once took a charter flight straight to Hanamaki Airport to see the autumn leaves in Tohoku. Hanamaki is right in the center of the Tohoku region, so during my five-day trip, I was able to visit lots of famous sightseeing spots without wasting time on long drives. Staying at a Hanamaki onsen ryokan ♨️ was also a really memorable experience.
Shinagawa Aquarium
Opened in 1991 inside Shinagawa Kumin Park, which sits right next to the canal, this aquarium is themed around “Connecting with the Sea and Rivers.” It features around 4,000 sea creatures from approx 450 species. Through shows and seasonal events, you can get up close with the fish, observe them, and learn more about their world.
The dolphin and sea lion shows were fantastic! The aquarium's exhibits and layout were also really impressive.