TravelBlog

TravelBlog

【Famous Sight in Kochi】A Stroll Through Katsurahama – A Breathtaking Spot Overlooking the Pacific with Sakamoto Ryoma

Date of Visit: May 2023 A Moment of History and Nature at Katsurahama: Meet Ryoma and the Pacific Ocean Katsurahama Beach in Kochi is one of the region’s most iconic sightseeing spots, known for its grand statue of Sakamoto Ryoma and the stunning horizon stretching endlessly into the Pacific Ocean. It’s also been selected as one of “Japan’s Top 100 Beaches,” and its scenic beauty is simply breathtaking 🌊✨ I visited in May 2023, right as the fresh greenery was at its peak. The vivid contrast between the blue ocean and the lush green trees was incredibly refreshing. Say Hello ...

TravelBlog

Visiting the Former Nara Prison|Explore the Historic Meiji-Era Jailhouse

Can a prison from the Meiji era be this beautiful? A tour of the Former Nara Prison Located in Nara City, Nara Prefecture, the Former Nara Prison was built in 1908 during the Meiji era. It has been designated as an Important Cultural Property of Japan and has recently been opened to the public for tours. As a fan of retro architecture, I had always been curious about this place. In October 2022, I finally got the chance to visit—and I’m sharing the full experience with plenty of photos✨ The breathtaking red brick exterior The first thing that strikes you ...

Food TravelBlog

Discover Kurashiki’s Denim Street: Japan’s Blue Paradise for Denim Lovers

Falling in Love with Denim in Kurashiki’s Historic District This time, I visited Kurashiki’s Bikan Historical Quarter in Okayama Prefecture. And right in the middle of these charming old streets, I found something unexpected and bold— the famous Kurashiki Denim Street! “Wait, a denim-themed street in a sightseeing area?” Yep! And if you’re a denim lover like me, it’s a blue wonderland you won’t want to miss 🧵💙 The Spirit of Kojima Denim, All in One Place Kurashiki is home to Kojima, Japan’s mecca of premium denim. And here on Denim Street, you’ll find high-quality local craftsmanship in fun, accessible ...

Art TravelBlog

Exploring Kurashiki’s Hidden Ukiyo-e Museum: A Quirky Art Spot Devoted to Kuniyoshi

Exploring Kurashiki’s Hidden Ukiyo-e Museum: A Quirky Art Spot Devoted to Kuniyoshi If you're strolling through the traditional white-walled streets of Kurashiki’s Bikan Historical Quarter, keep your eyes open for something quietly magical: a traditional Japanese house with a small wooden sign that reads “UKIYO-E KURASHIKI / Kuniyoshi Museum.” I popped in with zero expectations... and came out absolutely mind-blown. DSC_1411.JPG DSC_1413.JPG 🎨 100+ Works of Pure Kuniyoshi Chaos (In the Best Way) This isn’t your typical museum with glass cases and hushed voices. Every single room in this converted ryokan (traditional inn) is packed with over 100 works by ...

TravelBlog

Hidden Dog Paradise in Kurashiki?! Kurashiki Dog Museum & Toy Museum.

Kurashiki Dog Museum & Toy Museum – A Quirky, Retro Gem You Can’t Miss While strolling through the charming Kurashiki Bikan Historical Quarter, I stumbled upon something truly unexpected— dozens of dogs wearing black top hats staring down at me from a red signboard. Yes, that’s real. Welcome to one of Japan’s most eccentric spots: the Kurashiki Dog Museum and Toy Museum 🐶🎎✨ 🐾 1F: Japan Toy Museum – Nostalgia Overload! Step into the first floor and you’ll be instantly transported back to childhood. The Japan Toy Museum is filled with: Vintage Japanese toys ・Celluloid dolls ・Retro anime and mascot ...

Art TravelBlog

Feel Like a Princess at the Yumiko Igarashi Museum in Kurashiki

Feel Like a Princess at the Yumiko Igarashi Museum in Kurashiki Planning a trip to Kurashiki’s charming historical district? If you’re into Japanese manga, nostalgic aesthetics, or just love unique travel experiences, the Yumiko Igarashi Museum is a hidden gem you don’t want to miss. Famous for her manga Candy Candy, Yumiko Igarashi’s world comes alive in this whimsical art museum where visitors can literally step into a storybook—complete with princess dresses, photo spots, and pink-colored curry! What is the Yumiko Igarashi Museum? This museum is dedicated to the beloved works of manga artist Yumiko Igarashi. Located in the heart ...

Art ONSEN TravelBlog

Naoshima’s I♥︎Yu: The World’s Most Artistic Public Bath You Can Actually Soak In

🌈 What is I♥︎湯? I♥︎湯 (I Love Yu) is a fully functional public bathhouse (sento) combined with an immersive art installation. It was designed by renowned Japanese artist Shinro Ohtake and opened in 2009 as part of the Benesse Art Site on Naoshima Island. It’s located just a 1–2 minute walk from Miyanoura Port, the main gateway for ferries from Takamatsu and Uno. 🎨 An Artistic Bathing Experience The building’s exterior is a wild, eclectic mix of mosaic tiles, neon signs, tropical plants, and even parts of a ship—giving it a colorful, scrapbook-like appearance. Inside, every surface becomes a canvas: ...

ONSEN TravelBlog

Escape to one of Japan’s Top 3 Hidden Valleys – Iya Valley

Escape to one of Japan’s Top 3 Hidden Valleys – Iya Valley (祖谷渓) Deep in the mountains of Tokushima lies a hot spring retreat like no other. Iya Onsen Hotel is a secluded ryokan perched on a cliffside, offering breathtaking views and a private cable car ride down to a riverside open-air bath. 🛶 Nestled in the heart of nature, Iya Valley is famous for its vine bridges, steep gorges, and untouched serenity – a perfect off-the-beaten-path getaway. ♨️ The onsen water here is silky-smooth alkaline sulfur spring water, known as “beauty bath” for its skin-softening effect. Relax in the ...

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