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[Wakayama] Sakinoyu in Shirahama – A Historic Open-Air Bath Overlooking the Pacific

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Sakinoyu is the only remaining bath from the ancient “Yuzaki Seven Hot Springs” mentioned in the Manyoshu poetry anthology. It features a historic rock-lined outdoor bath just steps from the Pacific Ocean. You’ll feel completely immersed in nature — the sound of waves, the scent of sulfur and sea breeze, the open sky, and ships slowly crossing the vast sea. It’s so open-air that you might even be visible from nearby buildings or breakwaters (yes, really!). There are no lockers with keys inside, so you’re advised to leave your valuables in your car or ask the staff at reception to ...

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Kasama Inari Shrine Guide: History, Traditions, and Who Should Not Visit

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Kasama Inari Shrine is located in Kasama City, Ibaraki Prefecture. It was formerly classified as a village shrine and is now listed as a Beppyo Shrine under the Association of Shinto Shrines. It is also known as Kurumoshita Inari or Monsaburo Inari. The shrine has long been revered as a deity of abundant harvests and prosperous business. Over 3 million visitors come annually from all over Japan, not just the Kanto region. Kasama Inari Shrine is one of the Three Great Inari Shrines of Japan. The enshrined deity is Uka-no-Mitama-no-Kami, revered as the guardian of all industries and also worshipped ...

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Walking the Abandoned JR Shihoro Line: Horoka Station Ruins & the Phantom Bridge of Taushubetsu in Hokkaido

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Walking the Abandoned JR Shihoro Line: Horoka Station Ruins & the Phantom Bridge of Taushubetsu in Hokkaido Old JR Shihoro Line – Horoka Station Ruins These are the remains of the Horoka Station platform, where the old JR Shihoro Line tracks—last used in December 1978—are still visible. The old tracks, now overgrown with green, instantly brought the *Stand by Me* soundtrack to mind. You can follow the tracks all the way to the station ruins—but I stopped short after seeing a warning sign about bear sightings. Too scary to continue alone... I only walked a little way down the track ...

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Retro Stroll Through Hakodate｜Solo Travel Guide to Historic Churches, Public Hall & Red Brick Warehouses

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A Solo Stroll Through Hakodate’s Retro Architecture｜Exploring the Orthodox Church, Old Public Hall & Red Brick Warehouses Wandering Solo Around Hakodate Today’s the day I hop on a ferry from Hokkaido back to Aomori on the mainland. Before that, I set off from my hotel and headed into downtown Hakodate. When I first arrived in Hokkaido, I didn’t really get a chance to explore the city—so now’s my last chance for a quick wander before catching the ferry. Hakodate Orthodox Church When I think of Hakodate, I picture hills, churches, and night views. Since I’m leaving in the afternoon, the ...