Kinosaki Onsen in northern Hyogo is a famous, historic hot spring town with about 1,300 years of history. It’s known for doing the “seven public bath” tour and for strolling along the willow-lined Otani River.
In winter, walking down the old-school onsen streets feels so charming. There are little cafés everywhere, so it’s easy to grab a coffee and a dessert, take a break, and just chat.
The town has kept its traditional Japanese vibe, and the snowy winter scenery is especially beautiful. It’s such a lovely, polished little place. I can’t wait to come back when the willows are lush again—soaking in the baths and wandering around in a yukata has to be super chill.
Kinosaki Onsen | Review by 周黛西
Other Reviews by 周黛西
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Tower of Osaka Castle
Toyotomi Hideyoshi, who unified the country during the Azuchi-Momoyama period (1568-1600), began construction of the tower of Osaka Castle in 1583 and completed it in 1585. The castle was later destroyed during the Osaka Natsu no Jin（summer campaign of Osaka） in 1615, but was rebuilt by the Tokugawa Shogunate in 1626. However, the castle keep was destroyed by lightning in 1665. In 1931, the castle tower of the Toyotomi period was reconstructed with donations from Osaka citizens.
Osaka’s iconic landmark, Osaka Castle, looks especially dazzling in the early summer sunshine. The surrounding park is lush and green, but it gets really hot in areas without shade.
There’s a steady stream of tourists heading to Osaka Castle, which stands on the hill. From the observatory at the top of the main tower, you can take in the full view of the vibrant cityscape. -
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Oyu Stone Circles
Perched in a northeastern corner of Akita Prefecture at some 180 meters high sits a Jomon era archaeological site, dating back as far as 4,000 years. Designated as a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage site in July 2021, this spot remains one of 17 “Jomon Prehistoric Sites in Northern Japan”, found scattered across Hokkaido, Aomori, Akita, and Iwate Prefectures.
I love the old-fashioned charm of Oyu Onsenkyo in Akita. It preserves the character and atmosphere of traditional hot spring lodges.
After the rain shower, the stream was full, and a thick layer of mist hovered above it, like the foam on a latte. The greenery looked even fresher and more soothing after being washed by the rain.
Summer is definitely the perfect time to visit Tohoku. -
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Sakaeda Udon Main Store
Sakaeda Udon Main Store is located behind the Kagawa Prefectural Government Office in Takamatsu. This long-established handmade udon restaurant was founded in 1963. Open from 7:00am, it draws both locals and tourists. The restaurant uses a self-service style. Customers warm up their own noodles, pour broth from a tap, and add their favorite toppings.
I tried the handmade udon experience at Nakano Udon School. The instructor teaches you everything from kneading the dough and stepping on it, to rolling it out and cutting the noodles, and in the end you cook your own authentic bowl of udon.
The activity takes about 40 minutes, and after the class you receive a hanging scroll certificate of completion to commemorate this one-of-a-kind udon experience. -
