[Japan] Yamagata Quaint onsen and giant snow-covered evergreens

 

Yamagata, located in southern Tohoku, is famous for its snow monsters, impressive ski resorts, and hot springs.

Yamagata Prefecture, surrounded by Sea of Japan to the west and mountains to the east, is strongly influenced by its natural characteristics. On the coast are the port cities of Tsuruoka and Sakata, and deep inland, the Zhao Hot Springs, where hot springs are located, the quiet ski slopes, and the snow-covered majestic trees nicknamed "Snow Monster" show off their respective presence. Yamadera Temple in the mountains is the theme of the most famous haiku city, and Ginzan Hot Spring is a picturesque hot spring village located where Mount Eunkwang used to be.

directions

To go to Yamagata prefecture, please take the Shinkansen from Tokyo. Alternatively, you can fly to Sendai Airport in Miyagi Prefecture and transfer to a local train.

JR Yamagata Shinkansen connects Yamagata Prefecture to Tokyo and other areas. It takes about two and a half hours to get to the northern terminus of Shinjo. The nearest airport is Sendai Airport in neighboring Miyagi Prefecture. If you want to come from Tokyo or far away, please use this place. If you take the JR Senzan Line, you countYou can go back and forth between Ishi and Yamagata in about 90 minutes.

Don't miss.

Zhao Hot Spring, a ski resort and hot spring resort with towering snow monsters

Yamadera Temple, also known as Ritshakuji, a temple built on a large hill

Gatsan Mountain, the highest peak of the three major holy mountains of Dewasanjan

Yamagata Castle, a historic castle located in the center of Yamagata City with a simple appearance

Perfect starting point for mountain adventure and powdery snow

Yamagata City, located in Yamagata Prefecture, is an international center and is an attractive city with rich culture, fatigue-relieving hot springs, towering mountains and ski resorts.

Don't miss.

a tasteful old Yamadera temple

Kaminoyama Hot Spring and the view of the castle while taking a hot spring bath

Zhao San's "Snow Monster" to be created in February

directions

Yamagata City can be reached from Tokyo in about two and a half hours by taking the Yamagata Shinkansen Line.

The flight from Tokyo to Sendai Airport takes about an hour. If you get off at the airport, you can transfer by direct bus, and it takes about an hour and a half. Alternative routes include flights from Tokyo to Yamagata Airport. It takes about 30 minutes to get downtown again by bus.

a city surrounded by mountains

Yamagata City, the seat of Yamagata Prefecture's prefectural government, with a population of 250,000 people, is a convenient starting point for a trip to northern Japan.

A short walk from the station leads to various events throughout the year at the Gajo Park in Yamagata Castle. Every spring, crowds gather to enjoy picnics and see hundreds of cherry blossom trees in full bloom.

Life is a bowl of cherries

Fruit cherries, not flowers, are a famous export in the region, and are grown in various orchards in Yamagata.

Cherry lovers flock to Yamagata City to participate in the annual Yamagata Cherry Festival when the cherry season peaks in mid-June. Filled with dozens of different kinds of bread and snacks with cherries, as well as even a cherry seed-spitting contest, the festival is the most famous event in Yamagata City in summer.

Popular dance and food

In the summer, Yamagata Hanagasa Festival presents traditional dance, and in the autumn Imoni Festival, an outdoor festival is held where you can eat the popular local food "Imoni" as much as you want. If you participate in these events, you will be able to immerse yourself in Japanese culture.

a temple with a fine view

Yamadera temples built in the 9th century are scattered at the foot of Mount Hoshu, 25 minutes from the city. Climbing 1,000 steps through the mysterious cedar forest, you can reach the temple complex at the top and enjoy one of the best views in northern Japan.

Autumn is a good time to visit Yamadera Temple. You can climb to the top pleasantly while enjoying the colorful autumn leaves and mild temperatures of the surrounding forests.

the legendary hot spring village

The history of Kaminoyama Hot Springs dates back to the 1400s. According to legend, the hot spring originated from a monk watching a wounded crane bathe in healing water. There are four public baths operating at the foot of Mt. Zhao, so visit and enjoy the hot spring bath.

After taking a bath, climb Kaminoyama Castle and enjoy the view of the city and the surrounding mountains. First built in 1535, the castle was once the center of the Kaminoyama Domain. Now there is a small museum dedicated to the daimyo that once ruled the area.

Fruit, hot springs and shogi's home

Dendo is a mecca for Yamagata City fruits and houses a vast orchard planted with apples, peaches, pears, and cherries. Also, Dendo is one of the best hot spring resorts in the prefecture and has several open-air baths.

Do you like Japanese chess shogi? We produce most of Shogi's products here. The products made in Dendo are highly developed local crafts with hundreds of years of history.

world-class skiing and snow monsters

Mt. Zhaosan is one of the most popular tourist destinations in northern Japan. This is because you can enjoy a wonderful hike in the summer and the best skiing in the winter, and a hot spring bath with the same name that is open all year round.

Mount Zhao is also famous for its natural phenomenon known as the "Snow Monster," referring to trees near the top of the mountain that are strangely shaped by heavy snow and swirling Siberian winds.

The Snow Monster area of the mountain is accessible by lift and gondola, and bright lights are cast on the trees at night. If you can't stand the cold, you can enjoy the view in a warm cafe. Snow monsters make their most ferocious appearance in mid-February.

a quiet walk in the midst of history

Yamagata Castle's ruins and precincts were created as a large park, and are a long-standing relic that reminds us of the Momogami Daimyo family, which once ruled the area and showed off its powerful power. It is popular as a place for walks and picnics all year round, and in spring, visitors come to see cherry blossoms.

Don't miss.

It once boasted one of Japan's largest scale, and still an impressive walk through the ruins

an interesting museum remodeled from a building used as a hospital

Spring cherry blossoms surrounding stone fortresses and moat

directions

Located in Gajo Park, the castle is a 15-minute walk from Yamagata Station to Sekizawa by bus. Get off at the Kajoko Enmae bus stop (second stop). It takes about 3 minutes by bus, and it takes about 5 minutes to walk from the bus stop to the center of the park.

simple information

Built in 1592, the Bunjeo of Daimyo, which ruled Yamagata from the 17th to the 18th centuries

originality in the early 17th century, with a gnarled wall to maximize the defensive effectiveness

This castle is the fifth largest in Japan

Background

The 661-year-old castle is located in the city center of Yamagata, and it was actually used until 1872.

Although some parts have been damaged or lost due to carelessness over the years, the moat surrounding Yamagata Castle still boasts overwhelming dignity. The castle and the huge garden around it are a comfortable destination to take a day and look around.

In 1906, more than 1,000 cherry trees were planted around the castle to commemorate the Russo-Japanese War. Later, the name of the castle site was changed to Gajo Park, and it is still the most popular attraction with many people visiting this place to see cherry blossoms in the middle of April.

Restoration of the beautiful old appearance

You can enter the fortress park for free, and it's good to walk around leisurely.

The castle has been under constant restoration since 1986. Partially restored, the foundations of several structures can also be seen in the park. Major parts such as the Otemon Gate in the east have been restored, and moats and stone castles are also preserved. Archaeological excavations are also ongoing.

Like a pink carpet

The fortress park is especially good to visit in April, when many people gather to enjoy the cherry blossom festival.

Cherry trees were planted at the foot of the moat. Every spring, the surface of the moat turns pink because of the petals falling from more than a thousand cherry trees. At night, the lights in the park make a spectacular view.

Eating out and entertainment

Walking from Yamagata Station to Gajo Park, you can see a lot of good bars and restaurants on the street. The neighborhood is famous for its evening outings in the city, and it is also good for tasting local delicacies such as Yonezawa beef, a local specialty.

Another specialty of Gajo Park is the medical museum, which was remodeled from a building once used as a hospital. Built in 1877, the Saiseikan Museum was the first European building around here, and now displays medical devices and supplies used in the past. The unique architectural style alone is worth a visit. Admission is free, and brochures are available in two versions, Japanese and English.

[Korea] 3 courses in Jeju Natural Heritage Site

 

■ Manjanggul Cave (Jeju National Geopark)

Manjang-ri, located in Kimnyeong-ri-ri, is about 7,400 m, and the largest width of Jeju, and the largest width of about 25 m, and the largest width of Jeju Natural Heritage Site.In particular, it is a big cave that is 18m, which is 18m and 23 meters tall.In the world, many Yongam-dong Cave is distributed, but Yongam-dong Cave, Yongam-dong Cave, is very rare, which is very rare, is very rare, and conservation.Manjang Cave is formed in the middle of the cave, and three particles are formed, and it is the second entrance area where ordinary people can access to the general person.In Manjang Cave, Yongam-myeon, Yongam Seok-soon, Yongam-seok, Yongam-seok, Yongam-seok, Yongam-seok, Yongam-seok, Yongam-seok, Yongam

■ Jejudol Culture Park

Stone Culture Park is a museum and ecological park that comprehensively and systematically shows the stone culture in Jeju, the birthplace of stones. The entire park will be built by 2020, and as the first step, exhibition halls such as Jeju Stone Museum, Jeju Stone Culture Exhibition Hall, and Jeju's traditional thatched house were completed and opened on June 3, 2006, seven years after construction began. Stone Cultural Park, where you can see Jeju's stone culture in one place, is so large that it is good to look around with a leisurely schedule. Stone Cultural Park is located in front of Oreum, a unique natural heritage of Jeju, and if you go up a low uphill road along the shape of a castle made of stones, you will reach the entrance of the stone cultural park with a cool view.

Passing through the entrance and following the viewing path, you will meet various stone sculptures woven with the tales of Grandmother Maeul and his son, General Obaek, and if you follow the forest path through the megaliths, you can see the museum and Jeju's traditional thatched houses. It is said that it was built so as not to harm the natural environment and the surrounding landscape. In the outdoor exhibition hall, you can see 48 stone harbangs, a radiation tower that drives out evil energy and bad luck, Jeong Ju-seok, a symbol of Jeju that has no thief and no gate, and a bronze magnet that shows Jeju's inner circle that is built around the tomb to soothe the resentment of the dead. It is a resting place for nature and culture where you can feel Jeju's history and traditional natural beauty together.

■ Jeju Folk Museum of Natural History

The Jeju Special Self-Governing Province Folk Natural History Museum is a place where Jeju Island's unique archaeological and folk materials, animals, minerals, plants, and marine life materials are collected and displayed through investigation and research.

Since its opening on May 24, 1984, it has been displayed in three dimensions using real data, models, and mannequins, making it easier to understand Jeju culture that gives an exotic feeling. In the lobby, you can see the diorama exhibition of large fish and marine life, Jeju Island's formation history, various rocks, Hallasan's plant vertical distribution, the formation process of Jeju such as insects and mammals, and various natural ecology at a glance. In addition, you can experience the lives of Jeju people in the past through the lives of Jeju people, their livelihoods, and food, clothing, and shelter.

■ First time in Jeju

If you come down from the main gate of Samseonghyeol toward Dongmun Market, you will find Ohhyeondan as a tourist destination. There is a free parking lot right next to the building, so it is convenient to use.

■ Jeju Gyorae Natural Recreation Forest

The Gyorae Natural Recreation Forest is a natural recreational forest in the Gotjawal area of Jeju, and is divided into four areas: a recreational area equipped with a thatched forest and outdoor performance hall, a campsite, an outdoor stage, a futsal stadium, etc. It is in the spotlight as a healing and resting place for modern people who are tired of their daily lives.

[Japan] Tohoku Iwate Where rice fields meet World Heritage sites

 

Iwate Prefecture is an area of great importance because it retains various year-round cultural events based on Tohoku, vivid folk culture, rough natural scenery and pride.

Iwate Prefecture, located in the Tohoku region, faces the Pacific Ocean along the Sanriku coast, supported by the Ou Mountains, which have Japan's best ski resorts and hot springs. Iwate Prefecture is largely divided into four regions and shares nature worship, traditional folk culture, and samurai history. Gourmet is intoxicated by Japan's best wagyu, rice, and sake. Hiraizumi's World Heritage Site is drawing attention as a starting point for enjoying Iwate Prefecture's rich heritage and natural scenery.

directions

There are JR Tohoku Shinkansen trains from Tokyo, Sendai, and Hakodate to Iwate Prefecture every day. You can also go to Iwate Prefecture by JR local train, express bus, or car. It operates domestic and international flights from Iwate Hanamaki Airport.

Don't miss.

Exploring the World Heritage Site of Kkumidang and Hiraizumi at Chusonji Temple

Exploring Hashino Iron Mine and the site of the oldest Western-style furnace in Japan

Relax in the best hot springs in Japan, Hanamaki and Hachimantai

Exploring mysterious shapes of rocks along the coast of Iwate and the Ryusendo Cave of Iwaiizumi

1. Coastal Iwate Experience the rugged, unspoiled beauty of Iwate's coastline

Meet Iwate's coast, which retains the curvy and clean beauty of nature

From rocks made by natural forces to villages destroyed by earthquakes and tsunamis in 2011, the Iwate coast retains its dark charm. From remote beaches to mysterious caves, Iwate's beaches contain wonderful places to see.

Don't miss.

Kita Yamazaki's Rock Shape and Jodo-Kohama and Koishi Coast

Ryusendo Cave and Mysterious Underground Lake

Making Pumpkin Jewels at the Local Pumpkin Museum

directions

Go to the beach at Morioka Station.

The beach is accessible by train or bus from several cities in Iwate, including Morioka, Hanamaki, and Ichinoseki. Morioka Station has the most transportation, so it is accessible.

brief information

Iwate Beach is part of Sanriku Fuko National Park

The beach was hit by a massive tsunami on March 11, 2011

Rock of Kitayamazaki

a beautiful piece of rock made by nature

The Iwate coast is very famous for its unique rock formations. You can see some of these rocks from Kitayamazaki in Tanohata, where the Unos Cliff, which seems to have been cut 200 meters high, looks down the sea. You can take a walk along various trails in Kitayama-zaki or take a boat tour to see cliffs from the sea.

a bat cave

Although there are no batsmen in the Ryusendo cave, there are many kinds of bats living in four very clear and clean underground lakes. You can buy bottled lake clean mineral water at the cave store. Bats sometimes fly overhead, but most of them hide behind the vast stalactites in this cave.

remnants of destruction

To the north of Miyako is the tarot district, which was severely damaged by the 2011 tsunami. The Taro Kanko Hotel has been transformed into a museum dedicated to the disaster. The six-story hotel was destroyed by a tsunami on four floors. You can be guided by a tour guide on the spot, or you can tour the museum by yourself.

the Buddhist world of paradise

If you follow the coast, you will find Jodo-gahama Beach in the middle. It is good to swim in the calm water of the narrow bay where rain and wind do not hit. The beautiful scenery of the beach created by the uneven rocks is comparable to the Pure Land or Buddhist paradise. The most popular tourist destination around here is the vivid blue cave. You can take a small fishing boat and look around the interior like the famous blue cave on Capri Island.

a sacred place for sports

Located between Miyako and Ofunato, Iwate's beach Kamaishi has long been the mecca of rugby. Occasionally on weekends, you can watch the local semi-professional team Gamaishi Seawaves play. Kamaishi has also been selected as the host of the Rugby World Cup, so if you like rugby, it would be good to visit in 2019.

Go to the south

Pebbles on the coast of Koishi are worn out over the years and sparkle like go stones. Baduk is called "go" in Japanese, and for this reason, the name of this place became Goishi. Like the northern part of the coast, there are many unique shapes of rocks in the south. It is also an experience you can't miss to hear the loud sound like thunder as the water escapes from Kaminariiwa.

with kaminari

the most famous pine tree in Japan

Rikuzentagata is located just south of the coast of Oishi. The city was completely swept away by a tsunami in 2011, but only one pine tree remained there. Unfortunately, the pine tree died of salt water pollution in 2012, and the grafted seedlings took over as a symbol of hope. You can see this pine tree near the beach.

a treasure caught in the sea

In Iwate, you can taste the freshest sushi in Japan with beautiful beaches. Visit either Sanriku Beach or several restaurants in Tanohata, or taste fresh sea urchin, abalone and saury at Miyako's fish market.

a jewel of nature that has been made for many years

The Coogee Pumpkin Museum is located on the outskirts of Coogee. You can also learn about the unique history of fossil resins and watch pumpkin art and jewelry making workshops. Of course, we also sell pumpkin souvenirs.

Take part in the museum workshop. There are programs such as digging pumpkins outdoors or making your own jewelry.

2. Morioka A city of strength, from ironware to workhorses

From ironware and hard-working horses, visit Morioka, the city of power

Morioka is located under Iwate, in the Kitakami and Nakatsu rivers basins. The region, which offers a glimpse of the history of wealth and power, retains a rich historical culture with crafts and music.

Don't miss.

Cherry blossoms in full bloom in Iwate Park from late April to early May

Sansa Festival, the world's largest Taiko Book Festival

Contemporary Art and Brutalist Architecture at Iwate Museum of Art

directions

You can go to Morioka Station by Shinkansen from Tokyo.

Take the Tohoku Shinkansen or Akita Shinkansen from Tokyo Station. The journey takes about two hours.

brief information

Morioka Castle was demolished in 1874 when Iwate Park was built

The Chaguchagu Festival was first started by resting horses tired of hard work and praying for their health

a center of power

Iwate Park is located in the center of Morioka. Built on the old site of Morioka Castle, the park was first opened in 1906 and continues to this day. This is a popular place to enjoy cherry blossoms in spring and autumn leaves. From the highest point of the park, you can see a wonderful view of Morioka City.

All night long, all day long

There are many events and festivals in this park. If you love music, participate in the Ishigaki Music Festival held every September. Ten stages are scattered throughout the city, and the main stage is in Iwate Park. Even if you are not a music fan, you can eat and drink with other festival participants and enjoy an exciting festival.

a colorful horse festival

At the Chaguchagu Festival, you can see horses dressed in elaborate costumes made of hundreds of bells. The horses march 15 kilometers from Takizawa to Morioka. When the horses take a break twice in the middle, they can go close to the horses and feed them and take pictures together.

a dance that forgets the night

Morioka Sansa Festival is the largest Taiko Book Festival in the world and is held every August. Participants dance to the sound of drums, flute, and trumpets. When the day begins to dawn, you can jump among the dancers and dance together. Morioka Sansa Festival is held when summer is ripe and the temperature is at its highest.

I wish you a good harvest, good health, and a good hit

Another big festival is the fall festival, Aki Matsuri. Gloriously decorated kilns, taiko masters and dancers march around the city. On the last day, an event is held to set the arrow to the target on horseback. People here believe that if an arrow hits, peace and security will be guaranteed along with a good harvest.

Living like a snowman

The Iwate Snow Festival is held every February at Koiwa Farm just outside Morioka. You can enjoy snow sculptures, have snowball fights, watch fireworks, and taste the delicious dairy products of Koiwai Farm. This farm is famous all over Japan for its delicious ice cream.

the treasure and heavy metals of the village

If you're looking for the perfect gift to take back, visit Morioka Handicraft Experience Center. You can see about 4,000 specialties made by local craftsmen. Morioka is famous for its traditional ironware and teapot called Nambutecki. It's heavy but very popular. You can also create your own works here, from ceramics to ironware to ramen noodles.

"Powder Snow

For ski and snowboard lovers, Morioka is a great place to go on a snow-filled adventure. There are several resorts, including Api, about an hour north of the city. Api is considered one of the best ski resorts in Japan. It has 21 slopes, so you can enjoy skiing to the fullest regardless of the level.

Api is just north of Morioka.

Enjoying a Warm Hot Spring

After skiing hard or enjoying the Iwate Snow Festival, soak in the hot spring and warm yourself up to relieve your fatigue. The nearest hot spring is the Tsunagi hot spring area, which is at the end of the blue lake. This hot spring has a wide range of options for day travelers and overnight guests.

[Korea] The island of beautiful Shinbi, Ulleungdo Island

 

Ulleungdo Island, the ninth largest island in Korea, is a representative island created by volcanic activity, and consists of 44 annexes including Dokdo Island, Jukdo Island, the main island, and Gwaneumdo Island, which used to be inhabited but is now uninhabited. Ulleungdo Island is a natural rock climbing area consisting of cliffs cut in most areas. The coastal cliffs of Dodong, Jeodong Yongbawi Rock, Janggunbawi Rock, Samseonam Rock, and awl rock are popular climbing courses for mountaineers, and the surrounding scenery from the top is superb. A total of nine courses have been created and are still being maintained by renovating the old roads where Ulleungdo residents walked along the coast, mountains, and rivers to lead their lives from the time of pioneering to the modern era. Through Ulleung Haedam-gil, you can not only experience the lives of Ulleungdo residents in the past, but also feel the natural scenery of Ulleungdo, where the ancient mystery is preserved.

1. Ulleungdo Lighthouse (Taeha Lighthouse)

The official name is Ulleungdo Route Sign Management Office, and it is also called Ulleung Lighthouse or Taeha Lighthouse. Ulleungdo Island was called Ureungdo Island and Mureungdo Island after Silla's Isabu occupied Usanguk, an independent country, in 512 (the 13th year of King Jijeung of Silla), and was renamed in 1915, and the entire island was formed by volcanic action. In the center of the island, there is Seonginbong Peak (984m), the highest peak, and on the northern slope, there is the Nari Basin created by the collapse of the caldera crater, and there is little flatland and the coast is mostly composed of cliffs. It is a pentagonal shape with an area of 72.82㎢. There is a village called Taeha at the end of Daepunggam at the western end of Ulleungdo Island. There is a theory that Taeha was called because there were many laver (Haetae), and a theory that it was called foggy. The Ulleungdo Lighthouse was first lit in 1958 and has served as a watchman for ships sailing near Ulleungdo Island. The lantern tower has a white circular concrete structure and is 7.6m high, and in October 2003, it was replaced with a large-sized lamp with a prism lens rotating type developed by domestic technology, and the light goes up to 50km. The hiking trail to Ulleungdo Lighthouse is composed of naturally made trails and green forests, and it is loved as a hiking course by tourists because of its gentle slope and beautiful rock cliffs and scenery.

* First Light Date - 11 April 1958

* Structure - White round concrete construction (7.6m)

* Isostatic - Flashback 25 seconds 1 flash (FLW 25s)

* Characteristic - Located in Daepunggam, a juniper colony at the western end of Ulleungdo Island at the eastern end of Korea, it serves as a sign for Daehwatoe fishing grounds and ships operating from land to Ulleungdo Island.

2. Gwaneumdo Island (Ulneungdo, Dokdo National Geopark)

Gwaneumdo Island has a total area of 71,405m2, a height of 106m, and a circumference of about 800m, and is the third largest Ulleungdo island after Jukdo (207,868m2) and Dokdo (187,554m2). Currently, it is an uninhabited island, but in 2012, a bridge, or Yeondogyo Bridge, was built between Ulleungdo Island's island area and Gwaneumdo Island, allowing visitors to explore Gwaneumdo Island on foot. However, access is controlled when the wind is strong, so you must check whether you can access the main screen of the Ulleung-gun Office website in advance.

Gwaneumdo Island is also called Kkaksae Island because of its large number of kkaksae, and it is recommended as an ecological exploration destination because of its seasonal vegetation.In spring, you can see barley rice tree fruit, oriental raisin, horse squirt flower, and mugwort young leaf, and in summer, you can see island body flower, horse squirt fruit, sea magpie mustache flower, and herbaceous flower. In autumn, you can see silver grass, reeds, barley rice-tree flowers, and light purple Wanghaeguk, and you can see pine, persimmon, hibak, and camellia flowers.

Gwaneumdo Island was formed by the eruption of rough rock lava several times, and the surface of the island is covered with pumice. There are two caves about 14m high on the coastal cliff north of Gwaneumdo Island, called Gwaneum Ssanggul Cave, and it was created by the collapse of rocks along columnar joints and horizontal joints developed in tidal rocks by sea.It is said to have been used as a pirate's den in the past, and there is a theory that if you drink water from the ceiling of the cave, you will live a long life.

3. Dodong Coastal Trail (Ulneung-do, Dokdo National Geopark)

The coastal mountain book is followed by low-dong coast, and it is known as a coastal mountain book, and it is known as the coastal mountain road, and is known as the coastal road of Ulleungdo Island.Since there are excellent accessibility facilities such as rainbow legs, geographical parks, geographical names such as LED, geographical parks, and geographical parks are excellent accessibility to tourists.

The coastal mountain book is observed that various geographical structure between Ulleungdo Island, which has been characteristics of the early volcanic activity.In DO-dong, the number of cancer stone generations are generally young, and rocks, and rocks, and rocks, and rocks are scattered in the order of volcanic rocks, and rocks produced in the order of rocks.

[Japan] Tohoku Akita

 

Equipped with hot springs, well-preserved Samurai district and beautiful natural scenery, Akita is a resting place where you can feel the history and culture of Japan.

The northern part of Akita Prefecture is a favorite place for outdoor adventurers and historical buffs. You can enjoy various outdoor activities in the Hachimantai area. Take a glimpse of Japan's feudal era in the fascinating and well-preserved Samurai district of Kakunodate Village. The snow hut of the Yokote Snow Festival and the National Fireworks Competition in Omagari attract hundreds of thousands of people every year.

directions

Those coming from Tokyo, Sendai, and Morioka can take the JR Akita Shinkansen. You can also come from other parts of Japan by car, local train, and plane.

You can come to Akita by JAL and ANA flights from Nagoya, Osaka, Sapporo, and Tokyo. If you want to take the easiest and fastest way from Tokyo, I recommend you take a flight from Tokyo Haneda Airport to Akita Airport. It takes about 4 hours between Tokyo and Akita by the Komachi Shinkansen, which is directly connected to JR Akita Shinkansen. It departs every hour, and you can use the Japan Rail Pass, JR East Tohoku Regional Pass, and JR Southeast Hokkaido Pass. There are many long-distance buses from Tokyo to Akita. It takes about 8 hours.

Don't miss.

Mt. Hachimantai is especially beautiful in autumn.

Soak yourself in the volcanic mud hot springs and open-air hot springs of Koshogake hot springs.

Visit Yokote in Winter and participate in the 400-year-old Kamakura Snow Festival.

Enjoy breathtaking fireworks and music at the Omagari National Fireworks Competition, where fireworks teams from all over Japan compete.

Early Arts, Crafts, and Culture Meet in the Sophisticated Central City of Snow Country

Akita is the seat of the prefectural government in Akita Prefecture, located in the far north, and is widely known for its hot springs, fine sake, and strong breeds of dogs. It is also well-known that there are many beautiful women. The peaceful city, bordered by the sea and mountains, houses a famous local festival, a world-class art museum, and a well-preserved Samurai village. Get immersed in traditional Japanese culture here.

Don't miss.

Beautiful Summer Festival Akita Kanto Festival in early August

Castle Site and Seasonal Blooming in Senshu Park

Akita Prefectural Museum of Art and Leonard Fujita Works Designed by Tadao Ando, a Japanese architect

directions

Akita has Shinkansen stops and airports, so you can easily come from all over Japan.

It takes 4 hours to get to Akita Station by JR Akita Shinkansen from Tokyo. JAL and ANA operate a number of flights between Tokyo's Haneda Airport and Akita Airport, and it takes about an hour. The best way to come from Osaka or Kyoto is to take the Tokaido Sanyo Shinkansen to Tokyo first and then transfer to the Akita-bound Shinkansen. It takes about 75 minutes from Osaka Itami Airport to Akita Airport by air.

a breathtaking seasonal festival

Enjoy the breathtaking seasonal festival in Akita. The Akita Kanto Festival, which runs from August 3-6, is one of the top three festivals in the Tohoku region. Don't miss the highlight of the festival, the balancing competition. Participants compete to find the most difficult balance by placing super-large bamboo pillars decorated with numerous lanterns on their foreheads or hips.

The Yokote Kamakura Festival is a big attraction in winter. Local children build hundreds of igloo-shaped snow domes called "Kamakura." Kamakura, lit at night, becomes a tribute to the god of water. There are various snow sculptures in the shape of imaginary animals on display, so look around. There is also a large kamakura where people can sit inside and drink hot drinks.

It is an hour away from Akita, and the spirit "Namahae" that appears here is famous. Namahagi is a scary goblin who walks around the streets on the last day of the year, finds small children and scares them to be nice next year.

modern architecture and world-class art

Opened in 2013, the Akita Prefectural Museum of art is an impressive gallery with a wide collection of contemporary local art and historically valuable artifacts. Unsupported stairs and triangular ceilings designed by architect Tadao Ando have become icons of architecture and art, showing off their architectural beauty. Enjoy a collection full of works by Goya, Picasso, Rubens, and Rembrandt.

the encounter between Japanese and Western art

The representative exhibit here is an extensive collection of works by Tokyo-born painter Tsuguharu Fujita (Lenard Fujita), who was active in France. As one of the few collections where you can see his work in Japan, his work, which features a combination of traditional Japanese and French styles, has fascinated visitors for almost a century. Fujita's representative work depicts Akita's festival and changing seasons, and is known for the world's largest canvas painting.

a spectacular oasis in the city center

Senshu Park is located on the site of the old kubota castle, which was built in 1604 and burned through the Meiji period (1868-1912). There are only moats, gates, and watchtowers left now. The moat area has been repurposed into several ponds. Senshu Park changes clothes according to the season. When spring comes, cherry blossoms are in full bloom and soft pink waves cover everywhere. The towering wisteria also creates a majestic atmosphere in the park. Senshu Park becomes lush and lively in the summer when lotus flowers bloom, and it turns colorful red in autumn when autumn leaves bloom.

a panoramic view

If you climb the 100-meter-high observation deck, the Port Tower Cellion in Akita City, you can enjoy panoramic views of Sea of Japan to the west, Oga Peninsula to the north, and Jokai Mountain to the south. Don't miss the fantastic sunset.

The complex and surrounding areas have parks and play areas, so you can enjoy the natural scenery of the city. Various shops and restaurants are located in the area, and flea markets are often held.

a tour of the suburbs of the city

The Akita neighborhood is surrounded by a variety of villages and natural resorts where you can enjoy historical exploration, relaxation, and adventure. If you want to enjoy history and adventure, visit Kakunodate. This is a well-preserved fortress and a samurai village.

Other places to visit are the New To Hot Springs. Visit the beautiful hot spring resort located in the eastern mountains of Akita Prefecture. Not too far away is Lake Tazawa, the deepest lake in Japan. The waters of Lake Tazawa vary from dark jade to sapphire blue over the course of a year.

[Japan] Tohoku Aomori

 

Meet the natural scenery, primeval forests, apples, rice paddies, rice and sake, seafood and snow.

Aomori's relatively lesser-known deep blue scenery, famous festivals and World Heritage sites all deserve to be called "hidden jewels." A variety of fun awaits you, including hiking in an unspoiled natural environment, riding a stove train, tasting delicious seafood, and tasting sake.

directions

If you come to Aomori from Tokyo, you can take JR Tohoku Shinkansen, regular JR trains, express buses, and cars. There are a total of four Shinkansen stations in the prefecture, including Hachinohe, Shichinohetowada, Shin-Aomori, and Okutsugaru Imabetsu. If you come by air, you can use Misawa Airport and Aomori Airport.

Visitors who do not fly to Aomori usually depart from Tokyo. If you take the JR Tohoku Shinkansen, you can reach the main city of Aomori in about three hours, and you can use the Japan Rail Pass. If you use a plane, it takes a little more than an hour from Haneda Airport to either of the two Aomori Airport. It takes about 90 minutes from Osaka. Express buses between Tokyo and Aomori run regularly. It takes about 8 to 10 hours, and you can usually use it at night. International flights from East Asian countries arrive at Aomori Airport, and domestic flights connect Aomori to Tokyo, Sapporo, Osaka, Kobe and Nagoya.

Don't miss.

Aomori's rich festival: Aomori Nebuta, Hirosaki Neputa, Goshogawara Tachineputa, Hirosaki Castle Snow Lantern Festival and Cherry Blossom Festival

UNESCO World Heritage Site Shirakami Mountain Range and Sanriku Fuko National Park

Various ruins, magnificent temples, shrines, ancient castles, and Aoni hot springs (a remote hot spring where traditional ryokans are located)

Rare seafood caught in the Korean Wave in Sea of Japan and the Pacific Ocean

Meet the natural scenery, primeval forests, apples, rice paddies, rice and sake, seafood and snow.

Aomori's relatively lesser-known deep blue scenery, famous festivals and World Heritage sites all deserve to be called "hidden jewels." A variety of fun awaits you, including hiking in an unspoiled natural environment, riding a stove train, tasting delicious seafood, and tasting sake.

directions

If you come to Aomori from Tokyo, you can take JR Tohoku Shinkansen, regular JR trains, express buses, and cars. There are a total of four Shinkansen stations in the prefecture, including Hachinohe, Shichinohetowada, Shin-Aomori, and Okutsugaru Imabetsu. If you come by air, you can use Misawa Airport and Aomori Airport.

Visitors who do not fly to Aomori usually depart from Tokyo. If you take the JR Tohoku Shinkansen, you can reach the main city of Aomori in about three hours, and you can use the Japan Rail Pass. If you use a plane, it takes a little more than an hour from Haneda Airport to either of the two Aomori Airport. It takes about 90 minutes from Osaka. Express buses between Tokyo and Aomori run regularly. It takes about 8 to 10 hours, and you can usually use it at night. International flights from East Asian countries arrive at Aomori Airport, and domestic flights connect Aomori to Tokyo, Sapporo, Osaka, Kobe and Nagoya.

Don't miss.

Aomori's rich festival: Aomori Nebuta, Hirosaki Neputa, Goshogawara Tachineputa, Hirosaki Castle Snow Lantern Festival and Cherry Blossom Festival

UNESCO World Heritage Site Shirakami Mountain Range and Sanriku Fuko National Park

Various ruins, magnificent temples, shrines, ancient castles, and Aoni hot springs (a remote hot spring where traditional ryokans are located)

Rare seafood caught in the Korean Wave in Sea of Japan and the Pacific Ocean

[Korea] Bulguksa Temple in Gyeongju / Changdeokgung Palace and its patronage [UNESCO World Heritage]

 

1. Bulguksa Temple in Gyeongju

"Don't drink clouds" was built on the middle of Silla Dynasty, which is located in the middle of Silla Dynasty, and Seok Cave was newly established in 15 years of Silla Dynasty.After that, the Japanese Invasion of Korea in 1592, it was almost burned or platter.In the 1920s, some buildings left, but only some buildings left, but it became a permanent circular recovery and conservative, which has been built on the 7 points of national treasure today.If Seok-seong Fortress rises at about 3km (packing road) is famous for about 3km (p) in the Buddha statue of the East Sea, which is known as the most of the East Sea.Bulguksa Temple was officially listed as "The UNESCO World Cultural Heritage" and Jongmyo Shrine and Jongmyo Shrine was official listed in December 6, 1995, and Jongmyo Shrine and Jongmyo.

2. Changdeokgung Palace and its patronage

Changdeokgung Palace was a separate palace built after Gyeongbokgung Palace in 1405. It was also called ''Donggung'' because it is located in the east side of Gyeongbokgung Palace, the main palace. Geumcheon Bridge was built (1411), Donhwamun was built (1412), and since the 9th King Seongjong of Joseon Dynasty, it has become a palace where several kings have lived here and served as a main palace. During the Japanese Invasion of Korea in 1592, Changdeokgung Palace was burned. When King Seonjo fled to Uiju, angry people set fire to the palace. The palace, rebuilt by Gwanghaegun in 1611, is well harmonized with nature and artificiality, attracting many tourists, and there are many cultural properties such as Injeongjeon, Daejojeon, Seonjeongjeon, and Nakseonjae. Changdeokgung Palace was registered as a World Heritage Site along with Hwaseong Fortress in Suwon at the UNESCO World Heritage Committee held in Naples, Italy in December 1997. The background of Changdeokgung Palace was built during the reign of King Taejong and is a place where the king and other royals rested. The patronage was also called Bukwon and Geumwon, and after King Gojong, it was called Biwon. It is Korea's best garden that retains its natural appearance in low hills and valleys and has people's hands only in necessary places. There are numerous pavilions and springs everywhere, including Buyongjeong Pavilion and Buyongji Pavilion, Juhapnu Pavilion and Eosumun Gate, Yeonghwadang Hall, Boulomun Gate, Aeryeonjeong Pavilion, and Yeongyeongdang Shrine. In particular, it is said that it is most beautiful when autumn leaves and leaves fall on autumn days.

3. Seosamneung Royal Tomb in Goyang (Queen Janggyeong)

The UNESCO World Heritage and historic Seosamneung Royal Tomb was named Seosamneung Royal Tombs in the west of Hanyang with the creation of Queen Janggyeong's Heereung, Queen Inseong's Hyoreung, and Emperor Cheoljong and Empress Cheolin.

Since then, Uiryeongwon of Uiso Seson and Hyochangwon of Crown Prince Moon Hyo have been moved to Seosamneung Royal Tomb.

In addition, Sohyeon Crown Prince's Sogyeongwon was established in the private area of Seosamneung Royal Tomb, and since then, the royal concubines, the graves of their children, and the placenta chamber have been moved, such as the tomb of the deceased father of Yeonsan-gun.

4. Tongdosa Temple

The majesty of the green carpet-like Yeongchuk and the gate of the noble Seungpung are also the best stages to unite Tongdosa Temple, which has a long history, into the relationship between Yu and Mujeong. Until now, Chongrim's housekeeping has undergone many changes with the rapidly changing trend of the times, along with its diversity. Visibly, the expansion and renovation of metrological buildings tailored to the public and society's eyes, and the improvement of the executive administration system that is consistent with the digital society has improved work ability and maximized efficiency. In particular, Tongdosa Temple was registered as a UNESCO World Heritage Site under the name of Sansa-Korea Mountain Seungwon in 2018 and was recognized as the foundation of Korean Buddhism and a comprehensive performance in name and reality. In the future, Yeongchuk Chongnim is the main temple of Korean Buddhism as a leading Buddhist spirit, and it is intended to be reborn as a practice community that aims to become the best Chongnim in Korea.