Asahiyama Zoo, Asahikawa City
Asahiyama Zoo, the northernmost zoo in Japan, is a popular zoo known for its behavioral exhibits, in which comfortable spaces are created for the animals' ecology and their natural behavior is brought out to be seen.
The way it runs around looks kinda goofy, but honestly it’s insanely cool. The moment it jumped into the water, everyone was gasping.
Himeji Castle
This castle is a World Heritage Site and a Japanese castle masterpiece. The main keep, built by Ikeda Terumasa in the early Edo period, has a five-story exterior, one basement level, and six stories above ground on the inside, making it the largest Edo period castle tower still standing.
The gardens around the castle are super clean and really pleasant. Even if you don't go inside, it's worth coming here just for a walk.
Genji (Yoshida Udon)
Located in the Fuji-Yoshida area of Yamanashi Prefecture, Genji is a well-known restaurant where you can savor Yoshida Udon, a local specialty famous for its exceptionally firm noodles-often said to be the hardest in Japan. The noodles are known for their chewy texture and rich flavor that deepens with every bite, enhanced by the umami of the broth.
Super authentic! The noodles are super chewy and have a great bite. The rich sauce is super flavorful and makes the whole dish really satisfying. Portions are pretty big, so it's a great value. The place has a simple, homey vibe and the staff are really friendly. If you love udon, you definitely have to try this spot!
Cape Toi
The southernmost tip of Nichinan Coast Quasi-National Park stretches along the coastline from southern Miyazaki Prefecture to the western shore of Shibushi Bay in Kagoshima, Cape Toi, outlining a bump of green hills along the glittering Hyuga Sea. The landscape stands draped in the full frame of drama, as if plucked from a distant land. The cape bends with Cape Toi Lighthouse at its tip, still actively guiding ships today and notably the only lighthouse in Kyushu that allows interior tours. Visitors can learn about maritime navigation at the lighthouse’s exhibition room.
Ocean views, grassy fields, and wild horses—it's honestly like stepping into a postcard. Absolutely magical.
Hanazono Shrine
From long ago, the shrine located here has held an important Shinto deity for all of Shinjuku. It exists quietly among the shopping malls and eateries lining Shinjuku's downtown streets.
The lighting is beautiful, creating a peaceful and sacred atmosphere. The vibe is just fantastic!
Babadaimon no Keyaki Namiki
Keyaki Namiki is a 500-meter long walkup that's flanked with over 120 Zelkova trees. The avenue serves as a promenade that leads to Okunitama-jinja Shrine, and remains the sole National Natural Monument in Japan to be designated for its Zelkova trees.
Driving through here is truly impressive. The long avenue lined with zelkova trees, some over 400 years old, is a unique sight you can only find here!
Gunma Flower Park＋
Renovated in October 2025 under the concept “Enjoy! Play with Flowers,” Gunma Flower Park Plus is a flower- and nature-themed attraction located in Maebashi City, Gunma Prefecture.
If you love flowers and plants, you definitely shouldn't miss this spot! There are different kinds of flowers in every season, plus English and European-style gardens. Totally worth a visit!
Fujiya Honten
Kiryu has been known for wheat production and there are many udon restaurants. Fujiya Head restaurant was opened in 1887 and is famous for Himokawa udon, Kiryu’s local food, which is thin and broad noodles anywhere between 5mm and over 15cm-wide.
The recommended curry steamed Himokawa noodles tasted great. The noodles were smooth and delicious!
Binchotan Yakitori Toshi
The Mioudori chicken used in the yakitori here is carefully selected by the chef, and it’s characterized by the high-quality feed the chicken is raised on and its resulting tender meat. The yakitori is grilled with care over binchotan white charcoal, resulting in a delicious and juicy dish.
The grilled skewers weren't dry at all, and their special sauce really drew us in!
18 hot springs in Minakami
The 18 hot springs scattered on the southern slope of Mt. Tanigawadake, the center of the mountains on the Joetsu border, are collectively called "18 hot springs in Minakami". With the Joetsu Line and the Kanetsu Expressway passing nearby, the area has developed into a hot spring resort that ranks alongside Kusatsu and Ikaho as one of the most conveniently accessible hot spring resorts.
I heard you can get to Minakami Onsen from Tokyo Station in about 1 hour and 20 minutes by train. The mountain scenery really attracted us, so we picked an affordable inn for a soak. The spring water is simple and has no unpleasant smell, and it felt great on my skin. Next time, I want to try a more upscale hot spring resort!