Nagasaki Prefectural Saikaibashi Park
Spanning across Sasebo City and Saikai City in Nagasaki Prefecture, this park boasts the iconic Saikaibashi bridge.
The view at Saikaibashi Park is super open! You can see both the old and new Saikaibashi bridges at the same time—so impressive!
Meigetsudo "Hakata Torimon"
"Hakata Dontaku" is a festival held on May 3 and 4 every year, during which the city bustles with people. The people who parade around in Dontaku costumes, playing the shamisen, flutes and drums are called "Torimon" in the Hakata dialect, and the name "Hakata Torimon" is derived from this.
I really like white bean paste, but this was a bit too sweet for me. So I bought some as souvenirs and had them with tea for an afternoon snack. My coworkers loved them!
Nikko Toshogu
Nikko Toshogu is a shrine dedicated to the Edo shogun Ieyasu Tokugawa. It is the most visited spot within the World Heritage Site “Shrines and Temples of Nikko,” and here you can see 55 exceptional buildings, including 8 that have been designated as national treasures and 34 that have been designated as Important Cultural Properties.
Walking through the main gate of Toshogu Shrine, I was blown away by the magnificent architecture. As one of Japan’s most famous shrines, the traditional Japanese style, the golden rooftops, and the intricate carvings are truly stunning. Visiting other spots here, you can really feel the deep historical and cultural significance.
Sendai Asaichi Morning Market
“Sendai Asaichi" has the advantage of being extremely accessible, only a five-minute walk from Sendai Station. The market sells mainly fresh local Miyagi fresh food products. There are also many diners, allowing visitors to enjoy all the food Miyagi has to offer, from shopping to dining.
The food at the morning market was a real treat. I tried fresh seafood like scallops—they were super fresh and delicious. There were also local specialties like Sendai beef skewers, which left a lasting impression.
Jozenji-dori Avenue
Along with Aoba Dori, this main street is a symbol of Sendai, the "City of Trees," with four rows of zelkova trees stretching 700 meters, which can be enjoyed in all seasons, from fresh greenery to autumn leaves. The center of the street is a promenade, where visitors can enjoy a leisurely stroll while sipping a cup of coffee.
Walking along Jozenji-dori, you can really feel the unique charm and energy of Sendai. This street blends traditional and modern Japan, and you get a sense of the city’s cultural and artistic spirit. I instantly fell in love with this place.
Matsushima
One of Three Great Views of Japan along with Kyoto’s Amanohashidate and Hiroshima’s Miyajima. The grand horizon of the Pacific Ocean and large and small 260 verdant islands have been attracting many visitors since the Heian Period.
The clear waters, lush pine forests, and stunning islands of Matsushima are so refreshing. Every time I walk by the sea, I feel the power of nature and the vibrancy of life. It’s truly mesmerizing.
LaQua
LaQua is located in one section of Tokyo Dome City. Shops and restaurants, a spa, and attractions are combined in the complex. On the first and second floor, restaurants are lined up to surround the central space with the attractions. Behind them towers the building containing all the shops.
If you’re traveling freely in Tokyo, definitely add this spot to your itinerary. You can easily spend the whole day here—eating, playing, shopping—there’s something for the whole family!
Universal Studios Japan
Universal Studios Japan, nicknamed “USJ”, is a large-scale theme park with entertainment for everyone, both children and adults alike. The park is separated into different areas, each with a different theme from popular titles across the world.
Our whole family had a fantastic time at Universal Studios Japan! The way they combine games, movies, and video games is just so creative and detailed. My kids already want to come back next year!
Kikyouya "Kikyou Shingen Mochi”
Kikyou Shingen Mochi, which has been on sale since 1968, is one of the most famous sweets in Yamanashi Prefecture. Mochi, which is soft and bite-sized, is eaten with plenty of Kinako (soybean flour) and Kuromitsu (brown sugar syrup) served separately.
I had the ice cream with kinako and kuromitsu, and it was absolutely delicious!
Seirogan
Seirogan is a gastrointestinal medication that has been a staple in Japanese households for over 100 years. Its main active ingredient, the herbal medicine (a natural plant with medicinal properties) and Japanese pharmacopoeia “JP wood creosote” helps to adjust the water balance in the intestines without disrupting intestinal movement.
Ever since I was a kid, whenever I had an upset stomach, my mom would give me Seirogan, even though it smells pretty bad. So even now, we always keep a bottle at home just in case.