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Surprising areas rich in cultural properties

Surprising areas rich in cultural properties   Table of Contents 1: What are National Treasures and National Important Cultural Properties? 2: Ranking of National Treasures and National Important Cultural Properties by number 3: Prefectures rich in national treasures and cultural properties not visited by foreign visitors 4: The best ‘Little‐known good spots’ for travelers seeking a local trip or a trip to an unfamiliar place   1: What are National Treasures and National Important Cultural Properties? We compiled the National Treasures and Important Cultural Properties by prefecture according to the Agency for Cultural Affairs‘ website. The Agency for Cultural Affairs designates national treasures as being of particular value from the perspective of world culture. Important cultural properties are also defined as ‘important cultural properties.’ National Treasures and Important Cultural Properties are categorized as ‘buildings’ and ‘arts and crafts.’ 1,132 National Treasures and 13,377 Important Cultural Properties (including the number of National Treasures) had been designated as of 1 April 2023. Of the ‘National Treasures,’ 230 are defined as ‘Buildings’ and 902 ‘Arts and Crafts.’ Of the ‘Important Cultural Properties,’ 2,557 are designated as ‘Buildings’ and 10,820 as ‘Arts and Crafts’ (including the number of National Treasures). As a non-specialist inread moreSurprising areas rich in cultural properties

crane

Summary of July itinerary in Japan (Hokkaido)

Summary of July itinerary in Japan (Hokkaido) From Saturday, July 2 to Monday, July 4, I traveled to Hokkaido (Kushiro and Akkeshi). On this trip, I was able to eat more seasonal seafood and local cuisine than on any previous trip. I was also able to enjoy the great national parks at Lake Akan and the Kushiro Marshland, as well as the wonderful flora and fauna, including nationally protected species like the marimo and the Japanese (tancho) crane. Even in early July, when it was extremely hot in Japan, the temperatures in Kushiro and Akkeshi were 5 to 10°C cooler than in Honshu, making it the perfect summer vacation. I strongly recommend this itinerary for July in Japan. Here is a summary of the trip and some notes.   Table of contents 1.”100 best of local dishes” and “Local dishes loved by the nation” by this itinerary in Japan 2. Seasonal “PRIDE FISH” by this itinerary in Japan 3. Travel precautions for the itinerary in Japan 4. Travel in a light style 5. July 2 (Saturday) Day 1 6. July 3 (Sunday) Day 2 7. July 4 (Monday) Day 3   Again, each time, this itinerary was also created withread moreSummary of July itinerary in Japan (Hokkaido)

Kushiro sunset

July itinerary in Japan Day 2 (Hokkaido)

July itinerary in Japan Day 2 (Hokkaido) (Sunday, July 3)   Table of Contents 1. Kokutaiji Temple 2. Akkeshi Shrine 3. Shogyoji Temple 4. Akkeshi Taste Terminal, Conchiglie 5. Akkeshi-Ohashi Bridge 6. Lupin the Third Wrapping Train 7. Flower Clock and Kushiro Sunset     1. Kokutaiji Temple I headed from Kushiro City to Akkeshi-cho to fully enjoy sightseeing in Akkeshi on July 3 (Sun.). I used the following transportation to Akkeishi-cho. Depart Kushiro Station at 8:18,  Nemuro Line “bound for Nemuro Station”,  arrive at Akkeshi Station at 9:11,  Fare Yen 1,130 After arriving at Akkeshi Station, I immediately changed to a bus and headed for Kokutaiji Temple. The transportation I used was as follows. Depart Akkeshi station at 9:15,  Kokutaiji line,  arrive at  Kokutaiji Temple at 9:22,  Fare Yen 170 Kokutaiji Temple was built by the Edo Shogunate in 1804 and is one of the three official temples in Ezo. The other two are Usu Zenkoji Temple (Date City) and Samani Tojuin Temple (Samani Town). The three official temples in Ezo were intended to provide funeral rites for Japanese who died in Ezo (present-day Hokkaido) and to propagate Buddhism to the Ainu people. They were also meant as aread moreJuly itinerary in Japan Day 2 (Hokkaido)

Sumiyoshi taisha

Summary of June itinerary in Japan ( Osaka, Kyoto )

Summary of June itinerary in Japan ( Osaka, Kyoto )   I traveled to Osaka, Kyoto, and Aichi Prefectures from Wednesday, June 8 to Friday, June 10. On this trip, I was able to eat a lot of seasonal seafood and local cuisine such as sea bass and sweetfish, and visit wonderful sightseeing spots such as world heritage sites, national treasures, and national important cultural properties. I strongly recommend that you travel in June, especially in Osaka, Kyoto, and Aichi Prefectures, which are not suitable for travel in July and August due to the extremely hot weather. Here is a summary of our trip and some notes.   Table of contents 1.”100 best of local dishes” and “Local dishes loved by the nation” by this itinerary in Japan 2. Seasonal “PRIDE FISH” by this itinerary in Japan 3. Travel precautions for itinerary in Japan 4. Travel in a light style 5. June 8 (Wednesday) Day 1 6. June 9 (Thursday) Day 2 7. June 10 (Friday) Day 3   Again, each time, this itinerary was also created with the objective of “eating all the seasonal seafood and local cuisine”. Food is the first priority, and sightseeing spots are second. Nevertheless,read moreSummary of June itinerary in Japan ( Osaka, Kyoto )

Miyama's Thatched Village

June itinerary in Japan Day 3 (Kyoto, Aichi prefecture)

June itinerary in Japan Day 3 (Kyoto, Aichi prefecture) (Friday, June 10)   Table of contents 1. Miyama’s Thatched Village (Kayabuki-no-Sato) 2. Miyama folklore museum 3. Chii Hachiman Shrine 4. Kobayashi Family Residence 5. Nagoya City Hall / Aichi Prefectural Office   1. Miyama’s Thatched Village (Kayabuki-no-Sato) I went to Miyama, Nantan City, Kyoto Prefecture, in the morning on June 10. The transportation I used was as follows Depart Kyoto Station at 8:04,  San-in Line “bound for Sonobe”,  arrive at Sonobe Station at 8:51 Depart Sonobe Station at 8:52,  San-in Line “bound for Goma”,  arrive at Hiyoshi Station at 9:01 Depart Hiyoshi Station at 9:10,   Miyama Sonobe Line “bound for Kyu Chii Elementary School”,  arrive at Miyama Clinic at 9:45 Total fare: Yen 1,370 I got off at the Miyama Clinic bus stop and rented a bicycle at the Kyoto Tamba Kogen Quasi-National Park Visitor Center to go to Miyama’s Thatched Village (Kayabuki-no-Sato). Electric bicycles were Yen 1,500 per day. However, the price will double to Yen 3,000 per day from July 1, 2022. The Kyoto Tamba Kogen Quasi-National Park Visitor Center (bike rental office) offers free luggage storage. It took about 20 minutes to get to “Miyama’s Thatched Villageread moreJune itinerary in Japan Day 3 (Kyoto, Aichi prefecture)

Toji

June itinerary in Japan Day 2 (Kyoto prefecture)

June itinerary in Japan Day 2 (Kyoto prefecture) (Thursday, June 9)   Table of contents 1. Toji Temple 2. Fushimi Inari Taisha 3. Hotoji Temple 4. Tofukuji Temple 5. Saisho Kongoin Temple / Funda-in (Sesshuji Temple) 6. Unryu-in 7. Sennyuji Temple   1. Toji Temple I went to Toji Temple at 8:00 in the morning on June 9. Toji Temple is registered as a World Heritage site as a component of “Historic Monuments of Ancient Kyoto (Kyoto, Uji and Otsu Cities),” and its Kondo and five-story pagoda are designated as national treasure buildings. The five-story pagoda of Toji Temple is visible from the Shinkansen, making it the most viewed temple by visitors to Kyoto. Toji Temple was founded in 796. It was built as an national temple for the protection of the Heian-kyo capital. Later, in 823, Emperor Saga bestowed Toji Temple to Kukai (Kobo Daishi), who made it the Konpon Dojo (fundamental training hall) of Shingon esoteric Buddhism. Toji Temple is the only remaining structure from the Heian-kyo period. Due to several fires, no buildings from the time of its foundation remain in Toji Temple. However, the orderly arrangement of the temple buildings in a straight line from south toread moreJune itinerary in Japan Day 2 (Kyoto prefecture)

Kanshinji Temple

June itinerary in Japan Day 1 (Osaka prefecture)

June itinerary in Japan Day 1 (Osaka prefecture) (Wednesday, June 8)   Table of contents 1. Tsutenkaku Tower 2. Yasui Shrine 3. Shoman-in 4. Shitennoji Temple 5. Sumiyoshi Taisha 6. Kanshinji Temple 7. Eboshigata Hachiman Shrine 8. Nagano Shrine   1. Tsutenkaku Tower Traveled to Osaka and Kyoto prefectures from June 8th (Wednesday) to 10th (Friday). It was a sunny day for all three days on the trip just before the rainy season. I often cycled around sightseeing spots on all three days, and my face and arms were tanned black. On Wednesday, June 8th, I flew from Haneda Airport to Itami Airport, took a limousine bus to Osaka City, and then went around sightseeing spots in Osaka. The transportation I used are as follows. Depart Haneda Airport at 7:30,  JAL103,  arrive at Itami Airport at 8:35 Depart Itami Airport at 9:05,  limousine bus “bound for Namba Station”,  arrive at Namba Station at 9:30,  Fare Yen 650 The limousine bus is fast and convenient from Itami Airport to Namba Station. Since the limousine bus uses the highway, it only takes 25 minutes from Itami Airport to Namba Station. By the way, it takes 16 minutes by subway from Shin-Osaka stationread moreJune itinerary in Japan Day 1 (Osaka prefecture)

sweatfish

Summary of May itinerary in Japan (Kumamoto trip)

Summary of May itinerary in Japan (Kumamoto trip) I travelled to Kumamoto Prefecture (partly Fukuoka Prefecture) from Tuesday, 17 May to Thursday, 19 May. On this trip I was able to eat a lot of seasonal seafood and local cuisine and visit wonderful tourist attractions such as World Heritage Sites, national treasures and national important cultural properties. As my main objective was to eat local cuisine, I was able to eat more local dishes than I have on previous trips. I would strongly recommend this May Japan itinerary to everyone. A summary of this trip and some notes are reported below.   Table of contents 1.”100 best of local dishes” and “Local dishes loved by the nation” by this itinerary in Japan 2. Seasonal “PRIDE FISH” by this itinerary in Japan 3. Travel precautions for itinerary in Japan 4. Travel in a light style 5. May 17 (Tuesday) Day 1 6. May 18 (Wednesday) Day 2 7. May 19 (Thursday) Day 3   As I repeat every time, this itinerary was also created with the purpose of “eating out seasonal fish and shellfish and local dishes.” Food is the highest priority, and tourist destinations are the second priority. However, Iread moreSummary of May itinerary in Japan (Kumamoto trip)

manda

May itinerary in Japan Day 3 (Kumamoto prefecture)

May itinerary in Japan Day 3 (Kumamoto prefecture) (Thursday, May 19)   Table of contents 1. Einoo Tsurugi Shrine 2. Misumi Port Ferry Terminal (Pyramid of the Sea) 3. Misumi Station 4. Misumi West Port 5. Miike Coal Mine Manda Pit 6. Miike Coal Mine Miyanohara Pit   1. Einoo Tsurugi Shrine I went to “Einoo Tsurugi Shrine”, which is about a 10-minute walk from the accommodation “Kappo Ryokan Shoukin-kan” on the morning of May 19th. Einoo Tsurugi Shrine was founded in 713. It is said that Kaidogami (Tamayori-Hime) came on the back of a huge “Ray (Batoidea)” and was enshrined. At the dinner I had at Nishiki Sushi the day before, the master told me about Einoo Tsurugi Shrine. Residents around Einoo Tsurugi Shrine still do not eat “Ray (Batoidea)” as a god’s companion. A torii stood in the sea overlooking the Shiranui Sea. The precincts of Einoo Tsurugi Shrine (Uki City) are known as a viewing point for the Shiranui phenomenon. It has been designated as a national scenic spot as “Shiranui and Mizushima”. In 2022, the Shiranui phenomenon is scheduled to appear on the night of August 26th.   2. Misumi Port Ferry Terminal (Pyramid of theread moreMay itinerary in Japan Day 3 (Kumamoto prefecture)

kumamon

May itinerary in Japan Day 2 (Kumamoto prefecture)

May itinerary in Japan Day 2 (Kumamoto prefecture) (Wednesday, May 18)   Table of contents 1. Shin-Yatsushiro Station / Yatsushiro Station 2. Kumamon Port Yatsushiro 3. Former Gunchiku-Shinchi Kogo sluice gate 4. Yatsushiro Municipal Museum 5. Shohinken 6. Yatsushiro Castle Ruins / Yatsushiro-gu 7. Ryuo Shrine 8. Shunkoji Temple 9. Yatsushiro Shrine (Myoken shrine)   1. Shin-Yatsushiro Station / Yatsushiro Station I moved from Hitoyoshi City to Yatsushiro City in the morning of May 18th (Wednesday). The transportation I used is as follows. Depart Hitoyoshi IC at 9:54,  highway bus “bound for Shin-Yatsushiro station”,  arrive at Shin-Yatsushiro station at 10:34 Depart Shin-Yatsushiro Station at 10:46, Kagoshima Main Line “bound for Yatsushiro”,  arrive at Yatsushiro station at 10:50,  total fare Yen 1,590 At Shin-Yatsushiro Station, there is Kumamon with a fireworks shaku ball. Kumamon with this shaku ball is named after the “Yatsushiro National Fireworks Competition Festival“. The “Yatsushiro National Fireworks Competition Festival” is held in October every year. In Yatsushiro City, there are more than 100 Kumamon in the city. There is also a Kumamon map. I didn’t know in advance that there were so many Kumamon in Yatsushiro, but I did see so many Kumamon in the city. Ifread moreMay itinerary in Japan Day 2 (Kumamoto prefecture)

Aoi shrine

May itinerary in Japan Day 1 (Kumamoto Prefecture)

May itinerary in Japan Day 1 (Kumamoto Prefecture) (Tuesday, May 17)   Table of contents 1. Aoi Aso Shrine 2. Oikami Shrine, Hitoyoshi Castle Ruins 3. Iwaya-kumanoza Shrine 4. bridges, railroad tracks 5. Gansei-ji Temple 6. Kamada Shoyury / Tateyama Shop 7. Hitoyoshi Railway Museum, Hitoyoshi Station 8. Yamada Daio Shrine   1. Aoi Aso Shrine I traveled to Kumamoto prefecture from May 17th (Tuesday) for 2 nights and 3 days. First, I flew from Haneda Airport to Kagoshima Airport. The planes I used are as follows. Depart Haneda Airport at 7:40,  ANA2471,  arrive at Kagoshima Airport at 9:30 When I arrived at Kagoshima Airport, there was a footbath called “Oyattosa” near the bus stop. The great thing about “Oyattosa” is that people in wheelchairs can use the footbath while riding in a wheelchair. I think it’s a great initiative. I went to Hitoyoshi City by limousine bus. The limousine bus I used are as follows. Kagoshima Airport is overwhelmingly closer to Hitoyoshi City than Kumamoto Airport, so I used Kagoshima Airport. Depart Kagoshima Airport at 9:45,  arrive at Hitoyoshi IC at 10:37,  Fare Yen 1,420 After arriving in Hitoyoshi city, I had lunch and rented a bicycle to seeread moreMay itinerary in Japan Day 1 (Kumamoto Prefecture)

Bonito no tataki

Summary of April itinerary in Japan ( Kochi, Ehime )

Summary of April itinerary in Japan ( Kochi, Ehime )   I traveled to Kochi and Ehime prefectures from April 18th (Monday) to April 21st (Thursday). On this trip, I was able to eat a lot of seasonal seafood such as first bonito of season and local dishes such as Uwajima Tai-meshi. In addition, I was able to visit many wonderful tourist destinations such as national treasures, national important cultural properties, and national Important Preservation Districts for Groups of Traditional Buildings. This is the April Japan itinerary that I highly recommend to everyone. Here is a summary of this trip and some notes. As I repeat every time, this itinerary was also created with the purpose of “eating out seasonal fish and shellfish and local dishes.” Food is the highest priority, and tourist destinations are the second priority. However, I aimed to visit as many tourist spots as possible, such as national treasures, national important cultural properties , and national Important Preservation Districts for Groups of Traditional Buildings.   Table of contents 1.”100 best of local dishes” and “Local dishes loved by the nation” by this itinerary in Japan 2. Seasonal “PRIDE FISH” by this itinerary in Japan 3. Travelread moreSummary of April itinerary in Japan ( Kochi, Ehime )

Taisanji Temple

April itinerary in Japan Day 4 (Ehime Prefecture)

April itinerary in Japan Day 4 (Ehime Prefecture) (Thursday, April 21)   Table of contents 1. Taisanji Temple 2. Taihoji Temple 3. Bansuiso 4. Matsuyama Castle, Ishiteji Temple, Dogo Onsen (for 2020 visit)   1. Taisanji Temple I went to Taisanji Temple on the morning of April 21st (Thursday). The transportation from the Okaido where I was staying to Taisanji Temple is as follows. Depart city hall at 8:33,  Iyotetsu Bus “bound for the Driver’s License Center”,  arrive at Katamawari at 9:05,  Fare Yen 720 It takes about 15 minutes on foot from the Katamawari bus stop to the Taisanji main hall. It is a little over 5 minutes on foot to the Ninomon (Deva gate), which is a national important cultural property, but you need to walk a gentle slope for about 10 minutes from the Ninomon to the main hall of Taisanji Temple. The slope to the main hall gets tired when we walk. It was sung in a Buddhist pilgrim’s hymn as “If you go up to Taisan, you may sweat. No suffering shall later come the next life”. Ninomon (Deva gate) is an eight-legged gate built by Irimoya (building with a gabled, hipped roof), which wasread moreApril itinerary in Japan Day 4 (Ehime Prefecture)

Garyu

April itinerary in Japan Day 3 (Ehime Prefecture)

April itinerary in Japan Day 3 (Ehime Prefecture) (Wednesday, April 20)   Table of contents 1. Uwajima Historical Museum / Kabasaki Battery Site 2. Warei Shrine / Taga Shrine 3. Tensha-en Garden, Nanyo Gokoku Shrine, Kiya Ryokan 4. Uno-machi cityscape 5. Ozu cityscape 6. Uchiko cityscape   1. Uwajima Historical Museum / Kabasaki Battery Site In the morning of April 20th (Wednesday), I rented a bicycle at the Uwajima City Tourist Information Center “Shiroshita” and went around the city of Uwajima. I think that the rental cycle is the best because the distance for sightseeing in Uwajima city is too long to go around on foot and the number of buses is small for going around by bus. Uwajima City Tourist Information Center “Shiroshita” is a new facility that just opened in August 2021 at the entrance of Uwajima Castle. The rental cycle fee is Yen 2,000 a day for GIANT’s E-bike. The Uwajima Historical Museum has been relocated and used as a building built as the Uwajima Police Station in 1884. The light pink building creates a soft atmosphere that does not seem to be a former police station. The architectural style is pseudo-Western style architecture. It is aread moreApril itinerary in Japan Day 3 (Ehime Prefecture)

rice field

April itinerary in Japan Day 2 (Kochi, Ehime)

April itinerary in Japan Day 2 (Kochi, Ehime) (Tuesday, April 19)   Table of contents 1. Shimanto River Cycling 2. Ekawasaki Station 3. Matsumaru Station 4. Okuuchi rice terraces (Yuzuriha rice terraces) 5. Uwajima Station 6. Uwajima Castle     1. Shimanto River Cycling I went cycling on the Shimanto River from 8 am on April 19th (Tuesday). It is a 42km long-distance cycling from Nakamura station downstream to Ekawasaki station upstream. It is exactly the same distance as the marathon course. Since it is a “luggage-free trip”, it is possible to cycle by dropping off (borrowing at Nakamura Station and returning at Ekawasaki Station).  The route goes upstream of the river, but the slope is so gentle that it didn’t bother me. It took three and a half hours. I thought there were other cyclists besides me, but I never saw them. I rented a bicycle at the Shimanto Tourism Association at Nakamura Station the day before for a fee of Yen 2,000 for 24 hours, so I was able to leave the hotel in the morning. The Shimanto River is the longest river in Shikoku with a total length of 196 km. It is the 11th longest riverread moreApril itinerary in Japan Day 2 (Kochi, Ehime)

不破八幡宮の本殿

April itinerary in Japan Day 1 (Kochi Prefecture)

April itinerary in Japan Day 1 (Kochi Prefecture) (Monday, April 18)   Table of contents 1. Kochi Prefectural Kochi Otemae High School 2. Landscape of Kure Port and Fisherman Town 3. Kure Hachimangu Shrine 4. Nishioka Brewery 5. Ichijo Shrine 6. Fuba Hachimangu Shrine   1. Kochi Prefectural Kochi Otemae High School I traveled to Kochi and Ehime prefectures from April 18th (Monday) for 3 nights and 4 days. This time as well, I sent my luggage to my travel destination and enjoyed the “Luggage-free trip”. I flew from Haneda Airport to Kochi Ryoma Airport. The planes I used are as follows. Depart Haneda Airport at 7:55,  ANA561,  arrive at Kochi Ryoma Airport at 9:15 Planes before takeoff were lined up at Haneda Airport. I could see the Yokohama Bay Bridge from the plane, but after that I couldn’t enjoy the scenery with the clouds. However, the weather improved over Kochi, and I was able to enjoy the view of Kochi Prefecture from the sky. I arrived at Kochi Ryoma Airport and took a limousine bus to Kochi Station. The limousine buses I used are as follows. Depart Kochi Ryoma Airport at 9:20,  Limousine Bus Kochi Airport Line,  arrive atread moreApril itinerary in Japan Day 1 (Kochi Prefecture)

Myooin

Summary of March itinerary in Japan (Hiroshima, Okayama)

Summary of March itinerary in Japan (Hiroshima, Okayama)   I traveled to Hiroshima and Okayama prefectures from March 22nd (Tuesday) to March 25th (Friday). I was able to eat a lot of seasonal fish and shellfish and local dishes, and visited wonderful tourist destinations such as World Heritage Sites, National Treasures, National Important Cultural Properties, and National Preservation Districts for Groups of Traditional Buildings on this trip. It was the most visited tourist destination in the four-day domestic trip so far. I was able to enjoy fresh seafood such as seasonal oysters and agricultural products unique to the production areas such as Kuwai (sagittaria rhizome, Fukuyama City) and Yellow Chinese chives (Kurashiki City), which are overwhelmingly produced in Japan on this trip. In addition, I was able to eat Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki and Onomichi ramen, which are typical local gourmet foods. This is the March Japan itinerary that I highly recommend to everyone. Here is a summary of this trip and some notes.   Table of contents 1.”100 best of local dishes” and “Local dishes loved by the nation” by this itinerary in Japan 2. Seasonal “PRIDE FISH” by this itinerary in Japan 3. Travel precautions for itinerary in Japan 4.read moreSummary of March itinerary in Japan (Hiroshima, Okayama)

Abuto Kannon

March itinerary in Japan Day 4 (Hiroshima, Okayama)

March itinerary in Japan Day 4 (Hiroshima, Okayama) (Friday, March 25)   Table of contents 1. Stone light house 2. Ota family residence 3. Hosenji Temple, Myorenji Temple, Nunakuma Shrine, Ankokuji Temple 4. Masuya Seiemon House, Ryoma’s hidden room 5. Fukuzenji Temple, Taichoro 6. Bandaiji Temple, Abuto Kannon 7. Myooin Temple 8. Kusado Inari Shrine 9. Ohashi family residence 10. Ohara Museum of Art, Shin-Kojima-Kan (provisional name) 11. Walk around Kurashiki Bikan Historical Quarter 12. Former Ohara’s house, Yurinso   1. Stone light house I went to Tomonoura by bus from Fukuyama Station on the morning of March 25. The buses I used are as follows. Depart Fukuyama Station at 8:20,  Tomo Railway Bus “bound for Tomo Port”,  arrive at Tomonoura at 8:50,  fare Yen 530 I got off at Tomonoura bus stop, but if you want to start walking around the all‐night light stone lantern, it is more convenient to get off at Tomo Port bus stop, which is the end point. The Tomonoura Tourist Information Center is just off the Tomonoura bus stop. You should get off at Tomonoura bus stop to collect tourist information. Tomonoura is an old town that has been a village since ancient times,read moreMarch itinerary in Japan Day 4 (Hiroshima, Okayama)

厳島神社

March itinerary in Japan Day 2 (Hiroshima prefecture)

March itinerary in Japan Day 2 (Hiroshima prefecture) (Wednesday, March 23)   Table of contents 1. Hokoku Shrine, Five-storied Pagoda 2. Mt. Misen 3. Hayashi family residence 4. Daishoin Temple 5. Itsukushima Shrine 6. Daiganji Temple 7. Kokuzenji Temple   1. Hokoku Shrine, Five-storied Pagoda I went to Miyajima (the Island of Itsukushima) on March 23rd. The public transportation I used is as follows. Depart Hiroshima Station at 7:50,  Sanyo Line “bound for Iwakuni”,  arrive at Miyajima-guchi Station at 8:18 Depart JR Miyajima Ferry at 8:30,  “bound for Miyajima Pier”,  arrive at Miyajima Pier at 8:40,  Total fare Yen 600 I left early in the morning, but Miyajima Ferry was quite crowded with junior high school and high school students on school trips. Miyajima is famous as one of the three most scenic spots of Japan. Matsushima in Miyagi and Amanohashidate in Kyoto are also the three most scenic spots of Japan. I went to Matsushima in September 2021 and Amanohashidate in October 2021. Therefore, by visiting Miyajima this time, I was able to go to all the three most scenic spots in Japan within a year. The statue of Kiyomori Taira is located just off Miyajima Pier. Itsukushima Shrineread moreMarch itinerary in Japan Day 2 (Hiroshima prefecture)

Fudoin

March itinerary in Japan Day 1 (Hiroshima prefecture)

March itinerary in Japan Day 1 (Hiroshima prefecture) (Tuesday, March 22)   Table of contents 1. Fudoin 2. Memorial Cathedral for World Peace 3. Shukkeien (Asano Park) 4. Hiroshima Castle 5. Atomic Bomb Dome 6. Children’s Peace Monument 7. Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum 8. Shirakami-sha Shrine   1. Fudoin I traveled to Hiroshima and Okayama prefectures from March 22 (Tuesday) for 3 nights and 4 days. This time as well, I sent my luggage to my travel destination and enjoyed the “luggage-free trip”. I flew from Haneda Airport to Hiroshima Airport. The planes I used are as follows. Depart Haneda Airport at 8:15,  ANA673,  arrive at Hiroshima Airport at 9:45 I arrived at Hiroshima Airport and went to Hiroshima city by limousine bus. The limousine buses I used are as follows. Depart Hiroshima Airport at 10:05,  arrive at Hiroshima Station Shinkansen Exit at 10:55,   Fare Yen 1,370 After arriving in Hiroshima city, I ate okonomiyaki and headed to Fudoin. The public transportation I used is as follows. Depart Hiroshima Station at 12:00,  Sanyo Line “bound for Onoura”,  arrive at Shin-Hakushima Station at 12:03 Depart Shin-Hakushima Station at 12:10,  Astramline “bound for Chorakuji”,  arrive at Fudoin-mae Station at 12:14,  total fareread moreMarch itinerary in Japan Day 1 (Hiroshima prefecture)

snow crab

Summary of February itinerary in Japan (Hyogo, Tottori, Shimane)

Summary of February itinerary in Japan (Hyogo, Tottori, Shimane trip)   I traveled to Hyogo, Tottori, and Shimane prefectures from Wednesday, February 23rd to Sunday, February 27th. I was able to eat a lot of seasonal fish and shellfish and local dishes, and I was able to visit wonderful tourist destinations such as national treasures and national important cultural properties on this trip. Since this trip was mainly on the Sea of ​​Japan side of Hyogo, Tottori, and Shimane prefectures, I was able to enjoy the fresh seafood of the Sea of ​​Japan such as live snow crab. In addition, I was able to fully eat food of the mountains such as “Botan nabe (wild boar meat hot pot)”. This is the February Japanese itinerary that I highly recommend to everyone. Here is a summary of this trip and some notes. I will comment repeatedly every time, but this itinerary was also created with the purpose of “eating out seasonal fish and shellfish and local dishes.” Food is the highest priority, and tourist destinations are the second priority. However, we aimed to visit as many tourist spots as possible, such as national treasures and national important cultural properties.   Tableread moreSummary of February itinerary in Japan (Hyogo, Tottori, Shimane)

Matsue Castle

February itinerary in Japan Day 5 (Tottori, Shimane)

February itinerary in Japan Day 5 (Tottori, Shimane) (Sunday, February 27)   Table of contents 1. Walk around Yonago city 2. Yakumo Honjin 3. Kamosu Shrine 4. Matsue Castle 5. Jozan Inari Shrine 6. Karakoro Art Studio 7. Yuushien 8. Yonago Kitaro Airport   1. Walk around Yonago city I took a walk in Yonago city on the morning of February 27. First, I went to the Yonago Castle Ruins. Yonago Castle once had a five-storied castle tower and a four-storied turret, and was called “the best castle in the Sanin region.” It is said that Yonago Castle started around 1591 when Kikkawa Hiroie built a castle on Minatoyama at an altitude of about 90m. Honmaru, Ninomaru, etc. are designated as national historic sites. In addition, Yonago Castle was selected as the strongest castle in the NHK New Year’s special feature “Japan’s Strongest Castle Special 10th-A Castle with a Superb View That You Want to Visit Someday” broadcast on New Year’s Day 2022. This is because the magnificent view from the castle tower overlooking Oyama, Nakaumi, the Sea of ​​Japan, and the city area was highly evaluated. I wanted to climb to the castle tower ruins, but I gave upread moreFebruary itinerary in Japan Day 5 (Tottori, Shimane)

Kurayoshi Shirakabe Dozo-gun

February itinerary in Japan Day 4 (Tottori prefecture)

February itinerary in Japan Day 4 (Tottori prefecture) (Saturday, February 26)   Table of contents 1. Tottori Sand Dunes 2. Tottori Station / Kurayoshi Station 3. Kurayoshi Shirakabe Dozo-gun 4. Walk around Kurayoshi 5. Toyoda family residence 6. Kurayoshi Yodoya 7. Hasedera temple 8. Yonago Station   1. Tottori Sand Dunes I took a bus from Tottori Station to Tottori Sand Dunes on the morning of February 26. The buses I used are as follows. Depart Tottori Station 9:10,  39 Tottori Sand Dunes Line “bound for Sand Dunes Hall”,  arrive at Sand Dunes Hall 9:32,  fare Yen 380 Tottori Sand Dunes is about a 1-minute walk from the Sand Dunes Hall. Tottori Sand Dunes is a tourist destination that represents Tottori prefecture, and I have visited it several times. However, this was my first winter visit. The Tottori Sand Dunes is a vast sand dune 2.4km north-south and 16km east-west. It is the largest sand dune in Japan that can be visited. It has been selected as a national natural monument. Although the Tottori Sand Dunes in winter had a little snow, it wasn’t completely piled up, so the scenery was not good. There was a lot of snow inread moreFebruary itinerary in Japan Day 4 (Tottori prefecture)

White Stork

February itinerary in Japan Day 3 (Hyogo, Tottori)

February itinerary in Japan Day 3 (Hyogo, Tottori) (Friday, February 25)   Table of contents 1. Sakataru Shrine 2. Hyogo Park of the Oriental White Stork 3. Walk around Toyooka city 4. Tottori Castle Ruins, Jinpukaku 5. Minoura family samurai gate 6. Tottori Toshogu 7. Tottori City History Museum 8. Fukuda family house   1. Sakataru Shrine I took a taxi to Sakataru Shrine in the morning of February 25. I really wanted to go to Hyogo Park of the Oriental White Stork by bus, but I missed the bus, so I had no choice but to take a taxi to Sakataru Shrine at the end of Hyogo Park of the Oriental White Stork. However, this led to a lucky event as described below. As a result, it was all right. As the name suggests, Sakataru Shrine is a shrine related to sake. The god of worship is Sakamizuo no Mikoto and Sakamizume no Mikoto, the ancestor of Toji and the guardian deity of the sake brewer. I couldn’t go this time, but in Toyooka City, there is a shrine called Nakajima Shrine that enshrines the gods of sweets (Tajimamori), and is revered by confectionery companies nationwide. The main shrineread moreFebruary itinerary in Japan Day 3 (Hyogo, Tottori)

Kaibara Hachiman Shrine

February itinerary in Japan Day 2 (Hyogo prefecture)

February itinerary in Japan Day 2 (Hyogo prefecture) (Thursday, February 24)   Table of contents 1. Taiko Yagura 2. Kaibara Hachiman Shrine 3. Tanba City Hall Kaibara Branch, Great Zelkova tree (Kinone bashi) 4. Oda Shrine / Takeisao Shrine 5. Former Hikami Junior High School Building 6. Kaibara feudal lord Oda clan former residence Nagaya-mon, Kaibara Domain Jinya 7. Shinkoro 8. Izushi Castle Ruins 9. Meiji-kan 10. Sukyoji Temple (Takuandera Temple) 11. Izushi Sake Brewery 12. Former Fukutomi House 13. Sakuraya 14. Kogoro Katsura dwelling site 15. Oryu lantern 16. Eirakukan 17. Hide Shrine     1. Taiko Yagura I had breakfast at the hotel and took a bus to Kaibara station. The bus I got on is as follows. Depart Sasayamahoncho 9:12,  Shinki Bus “bound for Tanba Medical Center”,  arrive at Kaibara Station 9:42,  fare Yen 720 The main purpose of Kaibara is to visit “Kaibara Hachiman Shrine”, a national important cultural property. It was my first visit to Kaibara. It was a fun city to walk around. When you go to Tanba Sasayama, I definitely want you to go to Kaibara. First of all, I went to “Taiko Yagura”. It is less than 5 minutes walk from Kaibararead moreFebruary itinerary in Japan Day 2 (Hyogo prefecture)

tanba sasayama

February itinerary in Japan Day 1 (Hyogo prefecture)

February itinerary in Japan Day 1 (Hyogo prefecture) (Wednesday, February 23)   Table of contents 1, Taisho Romankan 2, Sasayama Castle Ruins 3, Aoyama Historical Village & Dekanshokan museum 4, Sasayama samurai districts 5, Sasayama merchant districts 6, Makekirai Inari 7, Tanba Sasayama City Historical Museum 8, Kasuga Shrine 9, Seiganji Temple 10, Sasayama Castletown Hotel NIPPONIA   1, Taisho Romankan From Wednesday, February 23, I traveled to Hyogo, Tottori, and Shimane prefectures for 4 nights and 5 days. This time as well, I sent my luggage to my travel destination and enjoyed the “luggage-free trip”. First, I flew from Haneda Airport to Osaka Itami Airport and headed for Tanba Sasayama City. The planes I used are as follows. Depart Haneda Airport at 7:25,  JAL103,  arrive at Osaka Itami Airport at 8:35 Arrived at Osaka Itami Airport and went to Tanba Sasayama city by monorail, Hankyu Railway, JR and bus. The public transportation I used is as follows. Depart Osaka Airport Station at 8:53,  Osaka Monorail,  arrive at  Hotarugaike Station at 8:55 Depart Hotarugaike Station at 9:03,  Hankyu Railway Takarazuka Main Line Express for Takarazuka,  arrive at Takarazuka Station at 9:23 Depart JR Takarazuka Station,  Limited Express Kounotori No. 3, read moreFebruary itinerary in Japan Day 1 (Hyogo prefecture)

Five-Story Pagoda

Summary of January itinerary in Japan (Yamagata trip)

Summary of January itinerary in Japan (Yamagata trip)   I traveled to Yamagata prefecture (Tohoku region) from January 25th (Tuesday) to January 28th (Friday). On this trip, I was able to eat a lot of seasonal fish and shellfish and local dishes, and I was able to visit wonderful tourist destinations such as the national treasure and national important cultural properties. Although it was a trip within the same prefecture, Yamagata Prefecture had different cultures and food cultures depending on the region, so it was a very satisfying trip. This is the January itinerary in Japan that I highly recommend to everyone. In addition, I will report a summary of this trip and some notes.   Table of contents 1.”100 selections of local dishes” and “Local dishes loved by the nation” by this itinerary in Japan 2. Seasonal “PRIDE FISH” eaten in this Japanese itinerary 3. Travel precautions (local trains) for itinerary in Japan 4. Travel in a light style 5. January 25 (Tuesday) Day 1  6. January 26 (Wednesday) Day 2 7. January 27 (Thursday) Day 3 8. January 28 (Friday) Day 4   As I repeat every time, this itinerary was also created with the purpose of “eatingread moreSummary of January itinerary in Japan (Yamagata trip)

The former Tsuruoka Police Office

January itinerary in Japan Day 4 (Yamagata Sightseeing+Meal)

January itinerary in Japan Day 4 (Yamagata Sightseeing+Meal) (Friday, January 28)   This time, I traveled a long time and visited few sightseeing spots, so I will write the sightseeing and meals in one blog. Thank you for your understanding.   Table of contents 1. Konpiraso 2. Chido Museum 3. Shonai Clan School Chidokan 4. Fruit shop Aomoriya 5. Mitsubo   1. Konpiraso After enjoying the bath at SHONAI HOTEL SUIDEN TERRASSE from the morning, I had a ramen as a brunch at the ramen shop “Konpiraso” in Sanze. The means of transportation from Suiden Terrace to “Konpiraso” are as follows. A taxi from SUIDEN TERRASSE to Tsuruoka Station takes less than 10 minutes and costs about Yen 1,000 Depart Tsuruoka Station at 10:17,  Uetsu Line “bound for Murakami”,  arrive at Sanze Station at 10:32,  fare Yen 330 It is less than 20 minutes on foot from Sanze Station to “Konpiraso”. I arrived at “Konpiraso” at 10:50, but the numbered ticket was already 29th. “Konpiraso” is open at 11 o’clock, but it seems that the store will open shortly before it opens, and it was already full. “Konpiraso” is still a very popular ramen shop. This was my third visit.read moreJanuary itinerary in Japan Day 4 (Yamagata Sightseeing+Meal)

Five-Story Pagoda

January Itinerary in Japan Day 3 (Yamagata)

January Itinerary in Japan Day 3 (Yamagata) (Thursday, January 27)   Table of contents 1. Mt. Haguro Five-story Pagoda 2. Mt. Haguro Sanjin Gosaiden 3. Kamo Aquarium   1. Mt. Haguro Five-story Pagoda In the morning, I left the Suiden Terrasse Hotel and headed for Mt. Haguro via Tsuruoka Station. The buses I used are as follows. Depart Science Park at 8:37,  Shonai Airport shuttle bus,  arrive at Tsuruoka station at 8:46,  fare Yen 330 Depart Tsuruoka Station at 9:43,  Tsuruoka Haguro Sancho Line “bound for Ideha cultural museum”,  arrive at Ideha cultural museum at 10:20 I bought a one-day ticket for Shonai Kotsu’s fixed‐route bus for Yen 2,000 at the Tsuruoka City Tourist Information Center in front of Tsuruoka Station on the 1st floor of FOODEVER. The round trip from Tsuruoka Station to Mt. Haguro costs Yen 2,500, so the one-day ticket is a great deal. There were few passengers other than me on the round-trip bus to Mt. Haguro. There is a bus stop called Science Park in front of the Suiden Terrasse Hotel, but the hotel staff said that the Suiden Terrasse Hotel has no means of transportation for local buses. This is because the bus stop atread moreJanuary Itinerary in Japan Day 3 (Yamagata)

Ginzan onsen

January itinerary in Japan Day 1 (Yamagata)

January Itinerary in Japan Day 1 (Yamagata) (Tuesday, January 25)   Table of contents 1. Yamagata Prefectural Museum Educational Resources Museum 2. Yamagata Prefecture Local Museum “Bunshokan” (Former Prefectural Office and Assembly Building) 3. Yamagata Manabikan (former Yamagata Daiichi Elementary School) 4. Walk around Yamagata city 5. Yamagata Marugoto-kan Beni-no-kura 6. Kajo、Yamagata City Local History Museum (former Saiseikan Hospital) 7. Ginzan Onsen   1. Yamagata Prefectural Museum Educational Resources Museum I traveled to Yamagata prefecture from January 25th for 3 nights and 4 days. This time as well, I sent my luggage to my travel destination and enjoyed the “luggage-free trip”. First, I headed from Haneda Airport to Yamagata Airport and went sightseeing in Yamagata City. The planes I used are as follows. Mt. Fuji looked beautiful from Haneda Airport. Depart Haneda Airport at 7:15,  JAL175,  arrive at Yamagata Airport at 8:15 I arrived at Yamagata Airport and took an airport bus to Yamagata City. The airport buses I used are as follows. Depart Yamagata Airport at 8:30,  Airport shuttle bus,  arrive at Yamagata Station East Exit at 9:05,   fare Yen 980 After arriving in Yamagata City, I first took a bus to the “Yamagata Prefectural Museum Educational Resources Museum”.read moreJanuary itinerary in Japan Day 1 (Yamagata)

Kiritanpo

Summary of December itinerary in Japan (Aomori / Akita trip)

Summary of December itinerary in Japan (Aomori / Akita trip)   In Tohoku (Aomori and Akita prefectures), where I traveled from Saturday, December 11th to Tuesday, December 14th, I was able to eat a lot of seasonal fish and shellfish and local dishes, which was a very satisfying trip. This is the December Japan itinerary that I highly recommend to everyone. In addition, I was able to visit many wonderful tourist destinations such as national important cultural properties. Here is a summary of this trip and some notes.   Table of contents 1.”100 selections of local dishes” and “Local dishes loved by the nation” by this itinerary in Japan 2. Seasonal “PRIDE FISH” eaten in this Japanese itinerary 3. Travel precautions (local trains) for itinerary in Japan 4. Travel in a light style 5. December 11 (Saturday)  Aomori Prefecture Day 1 6. December 12 (Sunday)  Aomori Prefecture Day 2 7. December 13 (Monday)  Aomori Prefecture Day 3 8. December 14 (Tuesday)  Akita Prefecture Day 1   This itinerary was also created with the purpose of “eating out seasonal seafood and local dishes.” Food is the highest priority, and tourist destinations are the second priority. However, we aimed to visit asread moreSummary of December itinerary in Japan (Aomori / Akita trip)

Neburi nagashi-kan

December itinerary in Japan Day 4 (Akita Day 4)

December itinerary in Japan Day 4 (Akita Day 4) (Tuesday, December 14th) Table of contents 1. Tentokuji Temple 2. AKITA municipal AKARENGA-KAN museum 3. Neburi nagashi-kan 4. Former Kaneko Family Residence 5. Akita Airport   1. Tentokuji Temple On the 4th day of my trip to Aomori and Akita, I gave up going to the “Namahage Museum” on the Oga Peninsula, considering the effects of snow. Therefore, I checked out before 11 o’clock, had an early lunch, and then went sightseeing in Akita City. First, I went to Tentokuji. The bus I used are as follows. Depart Akita Station West Exit at 12:20,    207 Bound for Akita Health and Welfare Medical Center,    arrive at Tentokuji-Mae at 12:31,    fare Yen 250 Tentokuji is a temple of the Soto sect (Zen sect). It is the family temple of Mr. Satake, the lord of the Kubota domain (Akita domain). The main hall, the Shoin, the Sanmon, the Somon, and the Satake family sacred house are national important cultural properties. The main hall was built in 1687, the Shoin in 1806, the Sanmon in 1709, the Somon in the early 17th century, and the Satake family sacred house in 1672. Iread moreDecember itinerary in Japan Day 4 (Akita Day 4)

Hirosaki Neputa

December itinerary in Japan Day 3 (Aomori Day 3)

December itinerary in Japan Day 3 (Aomori Day 3) (Monday, December 13th)   Table of contents 1. Saishoin Five-storied Pagoda 2. Kimura Industrial Research Institute 3. Sazaedo 4. Kuromon 5. Choshoji Temple 6. Former Kaikousha Building 7. Former Fujita Family Residence (Dazai Osamu Manabi no Ie) 8. Tsugaru-han Neputa Village   1. Saishoin Five-storied Pagoda The third day of my trip to Aomori and Akita was heavy snow from the morning. Even so, I decided to visit as many sightseeing spots as possible, so I went to the “Saishoin Five-storied Pagoda” near my hotel. The “Saishōin Five-storied Pagoda” was completed in 1667. It is said that it was built as a memorial service for enemies and allies who died in the process of unifying Tsugaru by clan ancestor, Tamenobu Tsugaru in Hirosaki Domain (Tsugaru Domain) . As a five-storied pagoda, it is a national important cultural property of the northernmost in Japan. It is said to be the most beautiful tower in the Tohoku region. It was very beautiful with snow. The precincts were also quiet and had a solemn atmosphere in the snow.   2. Kimura Industrial Research Institute There was “Kimura Industrial Research Institute” on the way fromread moreDecember itinerary in Japan Day 3 (Aomori Day 3)

Hirosaki castle

December itinerary in Japan Day 2 (Aomori Day 2)

December itinerary in Japan Day 2 (Aomori Day 2) (Sunday, December 12)   Table of contents 1. Move from Aomori Station to Kuroishi Station 2. Nakamachi Komise Street 3. Former main branch of the 59th National Bank (Aomori Bank Memorial Museum) 4. Hirosaki Castle 5. Former Too Gijuku Missionary Residence 6. Former Hirosaki City Library 7. Fujita Memorial Garden 8. Senguin 9. Seiganji Temple   1. Move from Aomori Station to Kuroishi Station In the morning of the second day of my trip to Aomori and Akita, I moved from Aomori station to Kuroishi station and went sightseeing in Kuroishi. The public transportation I used is as follows. Depart Aomori Station at 9:04,   JR Limited Express Tsugaru No. 2,  arrive at  Hirosaki Station at 9:38,   fare Yen1,200 (including limited express fare) Depart Hirosaki Station at 9:50,    Konan Railway Konan Line,   arrive at Kuroishi Station at 10:26,    fare Yen 470 Limited express Tsugaru runs on the Ou Line that connects Aomori Station and Akita Station. Personally, I don’t think the appearance of the limited express Tsugaru is a very cool design. However, the interior was clean and I liked it. There weren’t many passengers. I enjoyed the view fromread moreDecember itinerary in Japan Day 2 (Aomori Day 2)

Munakata Taisha

Summary of November itinerary in Japan (Nagasaki / Fukuoka trip)

Summary of November itinerary in Japan (Nagasaki / Fukuoka trip)   In Kyushu (Nagasaki and Fukuoka prefectures), where I traveled from November 15th to November 20th as best itinerary in Japan, I was able to eat a lot of seasonal fish and shellfish and local dishes as well as the trips in September and October, which was a very satisfying trip. I was also able to visit many wonderful tourist destinations such as World Heritage Sites and National Treasure Buildings. Here is a summary of this trip and some notes.   Table of contents 1. “100 selections of local dishes” and “Local dishes loved by the nation” by this itinerary in Japan 2. Seasonal “PRIDE FISH” by this itinerary in Japan 3. Travel precautions (local trains, buses, hotels) for itinerary in Japan 4. Travel in a light style 5. November 15 (Monday) Nagasaki Day 1 6. November 16 (Tuesday) Nagasaki Day 2 7. November 17 (Wednesday) Fukuoka Day 1 8. November 18 (Thursday) Fukuoka Day 2 9. November 19 (Friday) Fukuoka Day 3 10. November 20 (Saturday) Fukuoka Day 4   Following the itinerary in September and October, this itinerary was created with the purpose of “eating out seasonal fishread moreSummary of November itinerary in Japan (Nagasaki / Fukuoka trip)

Nanzoin

November itinerary in Japan Day 6 (Fukuoka Day 4)

November itinerary in Japan Day 6 (Fukuoka Day 4) (Saturday, November 20th)   Table of contents 1. Hakozaki Hachiman Shrine 2. Tochoji Temple 3. Kushida Shrine 4. Nanzoin 5. Hakata Sennen-no mon 6. Jotenji Temple 7. Myorakuji Temple 8. Shofukuji Temple 9. Rakusuien 10. Sumiyoshi Shrine   1. Hakozaki Hachiman Shrine On the last day (6th day) of my trip to Nagasaki and Fukuoka, I visited shrines and temples around Hakata. First I went to Hakozaki Hachiman Shrine. The public transportation I used is as follows. Depart Ekimae 1-chome at 8:16,   Nishitetsu bus 9 Hakozaki 3-chome line,   arrive at Hakozaki at 8:31,   fare Yen 240 Hakozaki Hachiman Shrine is about a 2-minute walk from the Hakozaki bus stop. Hakozaki Hachiman Shrine is one of the three major Hachiman shrines in Japan, along with Usa Jingu (Oita Prefecture) and Iwashimizu Hachiman Shrine (Kyoto Prefecture). In addition, the Rōmon (tower gate) of Hakozaki Hachiman Shrine is said to be one of the three major tower gates in Japan, along with Kashima Jingu Shrine (Ibaraki Prefecture) and Aso Shrine (Kumamoto Prefecture). It is unknown when Hakozaki Hachiman Shrine was built, but it is said that Emperor Daigo wrote the letters of calligraphy  “Mayread moreNovember itinerary in Japan Day 6 (Fukuoka Day 4)

Oshima

November itinerary in Japan Day 4 (Fukuoka Day 2)

November itinerary in Japan Day 4 (Fukuoka Day 2) (Thursday, November 18)   Table of contents 1. Munakata Taisha “Hetsu-miya” 2. Munakata Taisha “Takamiya Saijo (Festival place)” 3. Munakata Taisha “Shinpokan” 4. Munakata Taisha “Okitsu-miya Yohaisho” (Oshima) 5. Munakata Taisha “Nakatsu-miya” (Oshima)   1. Munakata Taisha “Hetsu-miya” On the morning of the 4th day, I went to Munakata Taisha “Hetsu-miya” from Hakata Station. The public transportation I used is as follows. Depart Hakata Station at 8:07,   Kagoshima Line Rapid train bound for Moji Port,    arrive at Togo Station at 8:36,   fare Yen 570 Depart Togo Station at 8:56,   line 1 Nishitetsu bus bound for Konominato Wharf,   arrives at Munakata Taisha at 9:05 ,   fare Yen 240 Munakata Taisha “Hetsu-miya” is a 1-minute walk from the bus stop of Munakata Taisha. Munakata Taisha is one of the oldest shrines in Japan, which is also mentioned in “Nihon Shoki” and “Sequel Nihon Shoki”. It is the head shrine of more than 7,000 shrines in Japan that enshrine the Three Goddesses of Munakata, Itsukushima Shrine. Munakata was the first international port in Japan. As a port to the Korean Peninsula and China, it played the role of diplomacy, commerce, and national defenseread moreNovember itinerary in Japan Day 4 (Fukuoka Day 2)

Kamado Shrine

November itinerary in Japan Day 3 (Fukuoka Day 1)

November itinerary in Japan Day 3 (Fukuoka Day 1) (Wednesday, November 17)   Table of contents 1. Zendoji temple 2. Arima family mausoleum (Tamaya) 3. Kamado Shrine 4. Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine   1. Zendoji temple On the third day of my trip to Nagasaki and Fukuoka, I stopped by sightseeing spots while moving from Nagasaki prefecture to Fukuoka prefecture. First, I left Sasebo Station in the morning and headed for Zendoji temple in Kurume City, Fukuoka Prefecture. The trains I got on are as follows. Depart Sasebo Station at 8:06,   JR Limited Express Midori No. 6, bound for Hakata,   arrive at Tosu at 9:30 Depart Tosu at 9:41,   JR Kagoshima line rapid train bound for Araki,  arrive at Kurume at 9:47 Depart  Kurume at 10:14,   JR Kyudai Line bound for Hita,  arrive at Zendoji at  10:33 Total fare Yen 3,120 (including limited express ticket) As I always think when I get on the train, the limited express trains of JR Kyushu are very cool. Mark is also cool, so I think there are good designers. The 787 series I boarded won the Japan Railfan Club Blue Ribbon Award in 1993. It started commercial operation in 1992, but the design thatread moreNovember itinerary in Japan Day 3 (Fukuoka Day 1)

Kujukushima

November itinerary in Japan Day 2 (Nagasaki Day 2)

November itinerary in Japan Day 2 (Nagasaki Day 2) (Tuesday, November 16th)   Table of contents 1. Kameoka Shrine 2. Hirado Castle 3. Tabira Catholic Church 4. Kujukushima   1. Kameoka Shrine I went to Hirado City in the early morning of the second day of my trip to Nagasaki and Fukuoka. The bus I got on is as follows. Depart Kyomachi at 7:43,  Q9  to Hirado Pier via Hiradoguchi Pier,   arrive at Yukoukan High School Entrance at 9:08,   fare Yen 1,450 It takes about an hour and a half to travel from Sasebo City to Hirado City. As I posted on the first day of the trip, it takes a long time to travel from Nagasaki City to Sasebo City. Although it is the same Nagasaki prefecture, it is very difficult to move within Nagasaki prefecture. Get off at the bus stop at the entrance of Yukoukan High School, and there is Kameoka Shrine on the way to Hirado Castle. Kameoka Shrine is a shrine dedicated to the feudal lord of Matsuura, and is enshrined at the site of the main enclosure of Hirado Castle. When I visited, there was no one and the quiet precincts were a charmingread moreNovember itinerary in Japan Day 2 (Nagasaki Day 2)

Sofukuji Temple

November itinerary in Japan Day 1 (Nagasaki Day 1)

November itinerary in Japan Day 1 (Nagasaki Day 1) (Monday, November 15th) Table of contents 1. Takashima 2. Saruku (Dejima, Megane-bashi, Daikoji Temple) 3. Sofukuji Temple   I went on a trip to Nagasaki and Fukuoka prefectures for 5 nights and 6 days from November 15th (Monday) to November 20th (Saturday). This time as well, I created the itinerary from prefectures with a large amount of fish and shellfish that will be in season in November. Nagasaki and Fukuoka prefectures were 2nd and 4th in the national ranking. In addition, I was able to eat many local dishes from Nagasaki and Fukuoka prefectures (selected by the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries). In addition, for this trip as well, I sent luggage such as clothing to the accommodation in advance and carried out a “luggage-free trip” without carrying large luggage. “luggage-free trip” is easy while traveling, and it has also helped me to make effective use of my time. I sent the clothes I wore from my last accommodation to a laundry agency, so it was an easy trip without having to do the laundry.   1. Takashima Early in the morning, I traveled from Haneda Airport (departing at 7:40)read moreNovember itinerary in Japan Day 1 (Nagasaki Day 1)

ichijoji

Summary of October itinerary in Japan (Hokuriku / Kinki trip)

Summary of October itinerary in Japan (Hokuriku / Kinki trip)   In Hokuriku (Ishikawa / Fukui) and Kinki (Kyoto / Hyogo), where I traveled from October 20th to October 27th as best itinerary in Japan, seasonal seafood and local dishes were very delicious and I was very satisfied with the trip. I was also able to visit many wonderful tourist destinations such as World Heritage Sites and National Treasure Buildings. Here is a summary of this trip and some notes.   Table of contents 1. “100 selections of local dishes” and “Local dishes loved by the nation” that I was able to eat on this itinerary in Japan 2. Seasonal “PRIDE FISH” that I was able to eat on this itinerary in Japan 3. The biggest precautions for itinerary in Japan 4. Luggage free trip 5. October 20 (Wednesday) Ishikawa Prefecture Day 1 6. October 21 (Thursday) Ishikawa Prefecture Day 2 7. October 22 (Friday) Fukui Prefecture Day 1 8. October 23 (Saturday) Fukui Prefecture Day 2 9. October 24 (Sunday) Fukui Prefecture Day 3 10. October 25 (Monday) Kyoto Prefecture Day 1 11. October 26 (Tuesday) Hyogo Prefecture Day 1 12. October 27 (Wednesday) Hyogo Prefecture Day 2  read moreSummary of October itinerary in Japan (Hokuriku / Kinki trip)

Akashi Kaikyo Bridge

October itinerary in Japan Day 8 (Hyogo Day 2)

October itinerary in Japan Day 8 (Hyogo Day 2) (Wednesday, October 27)   Table of contents 1. Akashi Castle Ruins 2. Awaji Jenova Line 3. Roadside station “Awaji” 4. Awaji Yume Butai 5. The Former Residence of the Kinoshita Family 6. Goshikizuka Tumulus 7. The Former Residence of Sanji Muto 8. Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hall (Ijokaku) 9. Kobe Harborland   1. Akashi Castle Ruins The 8th day is the last day of this trip. First I went to Akashi Castle Ruins. The train I got on from Himeji is as follows. The Shinkaisoku (Special Rapid Service) runs about once every 15 minutes. Depart Himeji Station at 9:11,  JR Kobe Line Special Rapid Service bound for Tsuruga,  arrive at Akashi Station at 9:35,  fare Yen680 Akashi Castle is not as famous as Himeji Castle, but the two triple Yagura (turrets) are national important cultural properties. Akashi Castle’s Tatsumi Yagura and Hitsujisaru Yagura are valuable, as are two of the only 12 existing triple turrets in Japan. Both were made in 1620. In the first photo, the Tatsumi Yagura is on the right side and the Hitsujisaru Yagura is on the left side. By the way, it is said that Miyamoto Musashiread moreOctober itinerary in Japan Day 8 (Hyogo Day 2)

ichijoji temple

October itinerary in Japan Day 7 (Hyogo Day 1)

October itinerary in Japan Day 7 (Hyogo Day 1) (Tuesday, October 26)   Table of contents 1. Shoshazan Engyoji Temple 2. Himeji Castle 3. Koko-en 4. Ichijoji Temple 5. Kakurinji Temple   1. Shoshazan Engyoji Temple In the morning, I went to Shoshazan Engyoji Temple by bus from the bus terminal of Himeji Station. The bus I got on is as follows. Depart Himeji Station at 8:05,   Shoshazan Ropeway Line,  arrive at Shoshazan Ropeway at 8:37,  Fare Yen 280 If you go to Ichijoji in the afternoon like me, the one-day ticket for Shinki Bus (Yen 1,300 for adults, Yen650 for children) is a great deal (Yen 580 discount). There is also a set ticket for the Shoshazan Ropeway and bus (adults Yen1,420 , children Yen710). It will be a little profitable (Yen140 discount). For one-day tickets and set tickets, please contact the Shinki Bus Himeji Station Information Center (business hours, weekdays 8: 00-20: 00, weekends and holidays 8: 00-18: 00). You can also walk to Engyoji Temple from the Shoshazan Ropeway bus stop, but it takes about an hour on a steep mountain road. The ropeway will arrive in less than 5 minutes, so if your goal is notread moreOctober itinerary in Japan Day 7 (Hyogo Day 1)

Ine Funaya

October itinerary in Japan Day 6 (Kyoto Day 1)

October itinerary in Japan Day 6 (Kyoto Day 1) (Monday, October 25)   Table of contents 1. Kyoto Tango Railway 2. Chionji Temple 3. Amanohashidate 4. Ine Funaya (boat house) 5. Move to Himeji   1. Kyoto Tango Railway On the 6th day, I went to Amanohashidate from Nishi-Maizuru. The trains I boarded are as follows. Depart Nishi-Maizuru Station at 9:18, Kyoto Tango Railway Miyamai Line bound for Toyooka, arrive at Amahashidate Station at 10:14, fare Yen 650 Kyoto Tango Railway is a railway operator operated by WILLER TRAINS Co., Ltd. WILLER TRAINS Co., Ltd. is a subsidiary of WILLER Co., Ltd., which also handles high-speed buses and tour buses. The train I took to Amanohashidate was a little retro and well-designed train. There were few passengers. The limited express train “Tango no Umi” of Kyoto Tango Railway stopped at Nishi-Maizuru Station. “Tango no Umi” was designed by Eiji Mitooka, a leading Japanese railway designer. It’s a very cool train. Mr. Eiji Mitooka has designed many railway vehicles such as “Nanatsuboshi in Kyushu,” “The Royal Express,” and “Kyushu Shinkansen 800 Series.”   2. Chionji Temple I went to Chionji Temple, which is less than 5 minutes on foot from Amanohashidateread moreOctober itinerary in Japan Day 6 (Kyoto Day 1)

Myotsuji Temple

October itinerary in Japan Day 5 (Fukui Day 3)

October itinerary in Japan Day 5 (Fukui Day 3) (Sunday, October 24) Table of contents 1. Imajo-shuku Honjin ruins 2. Tsuruga 3. Myotsuji Temple 4. Jingu-ji Temple  5. Wakasa Ichinomiya (Wakasahime Shrine) 6. “Sotomo Tour” pleasure boat 7. Obama Nishigumi   1. Imajo-shuku Honjin ruins In the morning, I moved from Fukui station to Imajō station and visited the site of Imajo-shuku Honjin ruins. The trains I boarded are as follows. Depart Fukui Station at 8:13, JR Hokuriku Main Line bound for Tsuruga, arrive at Imajō Station at 8:47, fare Yen 590 The site of Imajo-shuku Honjin ruins is a post town used by the Fukui domain when they changed their attendance. It is designated as a national important preservation district of historic buildings. The post town starts about a 3-minute walk from Imajō Station. The coin locker at Imajō station is free, so it’s great when we take a walk. Compared to the well-known post towns such as Ouchi-juku in Fukushima Prefecture and Tsumago-juku in Nagano Prefecture, the ruins of Imajo-shuku  have fewer old buildings and have a lesser atmosphere of the Edo period. On the other hand, there are few tourists, so we can take a leisurely stroll.read moreOctober itinerary in Japan Day 5 (Fukui Day 3)

yokokan garden

October itinerary in Japan Day 4 (Fukui Day 2)

October itinerary in Japan Day 4 (Fukui Day 2) (Saturday, October 23)   Table of contents 1. Tojinbo 2. Takidanji Temple 3. Old Kishina Family Home 4. Former Morita Bank Head Office 5. Fukui station 6. Daian-ji Temple 7. Yokokan Garden 8. Sakaenoyashiro     1. Tojinbo I went to Tojinbo by Echizen Railway and bus in the morning of the 4th day of my trip. The Echizen Railway runs about once every 20-30 minutes. The trains I boarded are as follows. Depart Fukui Station at 7:23,  Echizen Railway Mikuni Ashihara Line, bound for Mikuni Minato, and arrive at Mikuni Minato station at 8:14. The ticket from Fukui Station to Mikuni Minato Station is Yen 770. I bought a one-day free ticket only on Saturdays, Sundays and public holidays. All-you-can-ride Echizen Railway for one day is Yen 1,000 for adults (junior high school students and above) and Yen 500 for children, so it’s quite cheap if you go back and forth between Fukui Station and Mikuni Minato. The Echizen Railway vehicles were pop-colored. On the other hand, the station building of Mikuni Minato Station is an unmanned station and is quite retro. I headed to Tojinbo from the bus stopread moreOctober itinerary in Japan Day 4 (Fukui Day 2)

October itinerary in Japan Day 3 (Fukui Day 1)

October itinerary in Japan Day 3 (Fukui Day 1) (Friday, October 22)   Table of contents 1. Maruoka Castle 2. Eiheiji Temple 3. Ichijodani Asakura Ruins   1. Maruoka Castle On the third day (October 22nd), I headed from Ishikawa prefecture to Fukui prefecture. The first place I visited was Maruoka Castle. I had created an itinerary in advance, but when I bought a ticket at Kanazawa Station, I accidentally bought it at Fukui Station instead of what I should have bought at Awara Onsen Station, and I lost a lot of time. It takes 19 minutes by bus from Awara Onsen Station to Maruoka Castle, but 50 minutes from Fukui Station. Just in case, I will post the itinerary that I originally planned. This route is the most efficient. JR Kanazawa Station 8:48 departure   Shirasagi 56   Awara Onsen Station 9:24 arrival, Awara Onsen Station 9:30 departure   87 Awara Maruoka Eiheiji Line   9:49 Maruoka Castle arrival Even if you go to Tojinbo, Awara Onsen Station is more convenient than Fukui Station because it is closer to Tojinbo. Limited to weekends and holidays, there are free tickets to visit Tojinbo, Awara Onsen, Awara Onsen Station, Maruoka Castle, and Eiheiji Temple. Maruokaread moreOctober itinerary in Japan Day 3 (Fukui Day 1)

Kanazawa Castle

October itinerary in Japan Day 2 (Ishikawa Day 2)

October itinerary in Japan Day 2 (Ishikawa Day 2) (Thursday, October 21)   Table of contents 1. Former Ishikawa Prefecture Second Junior High School Main Building 2. Former Kanazawa Army Weapons Branch (Ishikawa Prefectural Museum of History , Kaga-Honda Museum) 3. National Crafts Museum 4. Seisonkaku 5. Kenrokuen 6. Kanazawa Castle Park 7. Osaki Shrine 8. Oyama Shrine 9. Naga-machi Samurai Residence District 10. Kanazawa Station   On the second day of Ishikawa prefecture, I went sightseeing in Kanazawa city. Sightseeing spots are compactly organized in Kanazawa, and each spot is within walking distance. Therefore, you can visit many tourist spots in one day. There are also great discount tickets, so let’s use them.   Kenrokuen Plus One ticket (valid for 2 days) Adults (18 years old and over) Yen 500 In addition to Kenrokuen, you can enter any of the 6 facilities (Kanazawa Castle Park, Ishikawa Modern Literature Museum, Ishikawa Prefectural Museum of Art, Ishikawa Prefectural Museum of History , Kaga Honda Museum, Ishikawa Prefectural Museumof Traditional Arts and Crafts).   SAMURAI PASSPORT (valid for 2 days) You can enter 12 facilities for Yen 1,000.   1. Former Ishikawa Prefecture Second Junior High School Main Building I started fromread moreOctober itinerary in Japan Day 2 (Ishikawa Day 2)

natadera

October itinerary in Japan Day 1 (Ishikawa Day 1)

October itinerary in Japan Day 1 (Ishikawa Day 1) (Wednesday, October 20)   Table of contents 1. Move from Haneda Airport to Komatsu Airport 2. Komatsu no Mori 3. Natadera temple   I went on a trip to Ishikawa, Fukui, Kyoto and Hyogo prefectures from October 20th (Wednesday) to October 27th (Wednesday) for 7 nights and 8 days. This is the route that I proposed the itinerary idea in my blog on October 2nd. This itinerary was created from prefectures with a large amount of fish and shellfish that will be in season in October. Both Ishikawa and Hyogo prefectures were ranked 4th in the national ranking. In addition, for this trip as well, luggage such as clothing was sent to the accommodation in advance, and a “Hands-free trip (Luggage free travel) “ was carried out without carrying large luggage. “Hands-free trip” is easy while traveling, and it has also helped me to make effective use of my time. I sent the clothes I wore from my last accommodation to a laundry agency, so it was an easy trip without having to do the laundry.   1. Move from Haneda Airport to Komatsu Airport I flew to Komatsu Airport byread moreOctober itinerary in Japan Day 1 (Ishikawa Day 1)

Biei

Summary of September itinerary in Japan (Tohoku / Hokkaido trip)

Summary of September itinerary in Japan (Tohoku / Hokkaido trip)   Table of contents “100 selections of local dishes” and “Local dishes loved by the nation” that I was able to eat on this trip Seasonal “PRIDE FISH” that I was able to eat on this trip The biggest precautions for travel (local train / bus) Luggage-free trip Sunday, September 26,   Miyagi Prefecture Day 1 Monday, September 27,   Miyagi Prefecture Day 2 Tuesday, September 28,   Iwate Prefecture Day 1 Wednesday, September 29,   Iwate Prefecture Day 2 Thursday, September 30,   Iwate Prefecture Day3 Friday, October 1,   Hokkaido Day 1 Saturday, October 2,   Hokkaido Day 2 Sunday, October 3,   Hokkaido Day 3 Monday, October 4,   Hokkaido Day4   I was able to enjoy a delicious meal and a beautiful view on my trip to Tohoku (Miyagi and Iwate prefectures) and Hokkaido from September 26th to October 4th. Here is a summary of the trip and some notes. I would like to reconfirm that this travel route setting was created with the purpose of “eating out seasonal seafood and local dishes.” Food is the highest priority, and tourist destinations are the second priority. This is the so-called “Bread is better than the songsread moreSummary of September itinerary in Japan (Tohoku / Hokkaido trip)