The change comes alongside fare revisions across several operators, including JR East, JR Hokkaido, JR West, and JR Kyushu. Overall, adult passes will increase by around 5 to 6 percent.

For many travelers, the Rail Pass is often part of the early planning stage of a Japan trip. It's commonly used for itineraries that link cities like Tokyo, Osaka, Kyoto, and Hiroshima, offering a simple way to move between regions without needing to calculate individual fares along the way.

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After the update, a 7-day standard pass will jump from 50,000 to 53,000 JPY, while the Green Class option will increase from 70,000 to 74,000 JPY.

The pass still tends to work best for those covering longer distances or taking multi-city trips, so its value really depends on how you plan to travel. If you're visiting later in the year, it may be worth taking the revised pricing into account when deciding whether it fits your itinerary.

For more information on the Japan Rail Pass, please visit our comprehensive guide here, or the official Japan Rail Pass online reservation site.

The journey gradually climbs away from the city, passing through forested valleys and quiet mountain scenery before reaching Mount Koya, a temple town set at around 900 meters above sea level. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it remains an important spiritual destination as well as a place to slow down and take in a different pace of life. GRAN Tenku has been designed with that in mind, offering comfortable seating and wide windows that frame the changing landscape over the 90-minute ride.

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Behind the scenes, the train also reflects a growing focus on sustainability. Through a partnership with Kyocera EPA LLC and Kansai Electric Power Company, GRAN Tenku operates entirely on renewable energy. Electricity is supplied from a floating solar power system in Hyogo Prefecture, generating around 2,000 kW without requiring deforestation. The design also helps reduce water evaporation and limit algae growth in the reservoir.

This forms part of wider environmental efforts by Nankai Electric Railway, with the initiative expected to cut annual CO2 emissions by approximately 1,100 tons.

For those traveling to Mount Koya, the train journey has long been part of the experience. GRAN Tenku continues that tradition, offering a comfortable and considered way to arrive.

The Pass

The JR East-South Hokkaido Rail Pass covers a wide network across northern Japan. See the list below for a full breakdown:

What's covered:

• JR East lines (including the Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) system)
• JR Hokkaido lines (Hakodate, Sapporo, Otaru area)
• Aoimori Railway
• Iwate Galaxy Railway (IGR)
• Tokyo Monorail
• Sendai Airport Transit Line
• Nikko, Kinugawa, and SPACIA Kinugawa limited express trains (reserved ordinary car seats only)
• Tobu Railway (regular and rapid trains between Shimo-imaichi and Tobu-nikko/Kinugawa-onsen)

**Gala Yuzawa Station operates only during winter and spring ski season, so factor that in if it's on your list.

What's not covered:

• Tokaido Shinkansen (operated by JR Central)
• South Hokkaido Railway Line
• Green Car and GranClass upgrades (available for a separate fee)

Beyond transportation, the pass also doubles as a discount and rewards card. Show it at selected museums, shops, car rental stores, and restaurants to receive savings that can add up quickly over a few days of travel. Check JR-East’s special offers page for the list of participating establishments.

Prices

• Adult (12 and older): ¥40,000
• Child (6–11): ¥20,000

To put that in perspective, a single round-trip on the Hokkaido Shinkansen between Tokyo and Shin-Hakodate-Hokuto in reserved seats costs roughly ¥48,000 on its own. With the pass at ¥40,000, you break even before adding a single stop along the way.

Children under 6 who do not require a reserved seat travel free without a pass.

Get your JR East-South Hokkaido Rail Pass

Validity

The pass is valid for six consecutive days from a date of your choosing. Days run on a calendar-day basis, so plan your start date to maximize full travel days. Only one pass of this type may be active at a time—you cannot purchase overlapping passes.

Do I Need It?

This pass is best suited for visitors making the Tokyo-to-Hakodate journey and planning multiple stops along the Tohoku corridor. If you're combining cities like Sendai, Aomori, and Akita in a single trip north, it delivers outstanding value. It also works well as a base for Tohoku-only itineraries without Hokkaido.

It's less ideal if your trip is limited to Tokyo and its immediate surroundings, or if you need the Tokaido Shinkansen—in those cases, a different JR pass may suit you better.

Purchase

The pass is sold exclusively to visitors from outside Japan and requires a valid passport. It can be purchased online via the JR East-South Hokkaido Rail Pass or through authorized travel agents like Klook or KKday before or after arrival.

Seat reservations for Shinkansen and limited express trains can be made at the same time or later at JR ticket offices and reservation machines.

Usage

Present your pass at ticket gates or to station staff when boarding. Seat reservations are strongly recommended for Shinkansen travel, especially on busy travel dates. Reservations are included at no extra charge for ordinary car seats.

Destinations

Here are some of the top places you can visit using the pass:

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The company is working with design studio nendo on a brand renewal that goes beyond a new logo. The aim is to keep its easygoing, budget-friendly approach while making the overall experience feel more consistent and considered.

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The airline already connects major hubs including Narita, Kansai, Chubu, Fukuoka, and Naha, linking Japan with both domestic destinations and nearby international cities. Their business model clearly resonates with people, too, as they have carried more than 75 million passengers since launching as one of Japan's low-cost carriers. While the refresh will roll out gradually, it signals a shift toward a more polished experience without changing the budget-friendly model travelers rely on.

From April 1st, a redesigned logo will begin appearing across airports, the website, and the app. It keeps Peach's familiar circle-and-line concept but softens the look with rounded edges and wider spacing. A small leaf icon has been added as well.

Additionally, new aircraft designs are expected from Spring 2027. These will feature overlapping circular patterns across the fuselage, creating a sense of movement and variety. The color palette combines Peach's signature pink with softer beige tones, giving a brighter but more balanced look. The well-known pink tail and cabin accents will remain.

Designer Oki Sato of nendo describes the concept as a balance between structure and lightness, aiming for something that feels both reliable and approachable. In practice, it is still very much Peach, just with a calmer and slightly more refined finish.

To mark 100 years since the beginning of the Showa era, Japan's Ministry of Finance has announced a limited-edition commemorative coin that doubles as a unique souvenir. While it may not be the most typical travel purchase, it offers a small, beautifully crafted snapshot of Japan's modern history.

The coin itself is a 1,000-yen piece made from pure silver, with a premium finish that reflects its collectible status rather than its face value. In addition, only 40,000 coins will be issued, making it a fairly limited release. On one side, the design brings together iconic symbols of the Showa period, including the Shinkansen, Tokyo Tower, and scenes of everyday life. The reverse features a more classic image of Japan, with Mount Fuji, cherry blossoms, and doves.

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For travelers, what makes this especially appealing is the storytelling element. The Showa era, which lasted from 1926 to 1989, was a time of huge transformation in Japan, spanning everything from post-war recovery to rapid economic growth. This coin captures that journey in a unique way.

There are a few things to keep in mind if you're hoping to get one. The coin will be sold exclusively through the Japan Mint rather than at banks or tourist counters, and applications are expected to open in late August 2026. The price is set at 34,800 JPY, reflecting the silver content and detailed craftsmanship.

It may not be the easiest or most budget-friendly souvenir to pick up on a short trip, but for collectors or Japan enthusiasts, it's the kind of keepsake that carries a bit more weight.

A new collaboration between Samsung Electronics Japan and East Japan Railway Company is set to expand the reach of Japan's popular Suica transport system for inbound travelers. From the first half of 2027, selected overseas versions of Samsung Galaxy smartphones will support the "Welcome Suica Mobile" app, allowing visitors to access trains, buses, and even everyday shopping without needing a physical card.

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For anyone unfamiliar, Suica is one of Japan's essential travel tools. Traditionally issued as a prepaid IC card, it lets you tap in and out of train stations, hop on buses, and pay at convenience stores and vending machines. The new mobile version aims to reduce the need for in-person setup by letting travelers manage everything directly on their phones.

What makes this update particularly useful is the potential to streamline the arrival experience. Rather than relying solely on airport counters or ticket machines, eligible travelers may be able to issue and charge a Suica card digitally. Integration with Samsung's payment platform will also allow users to top up their balance and purchase add-ons like Green Car tickets directly within the app.

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There are a few limitations to keep in mind. Welcome Suica is designed specifically for short-term visitors, meaning balances cannot be refunded and will expire after a set period. Device compatibility will also depend on specific models released outside Japan from 2027 onward.

Still, for inbound travelers, this signals a clear shift toward more seamless, app-based travel in Japan.

The new menu is available at all eight bills locations in Japan—including Shichirigahama, Yokohama, Odaiba, Omotesando, Futakotamagawa, Fukuoka, Ginza, and Osaka.

A multicultural seasonal concept

Sydney’s identity as a multicultural coastal city reflects what’s in the Spring/Summer 2026 menu. bills translates what Sydney has to offer into dishes that feel light yet layered, familiar yet inventive—especially evident in the interplay between seafood, spices, grains, and fresh herbs.

Coastal freshness

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One of the standout starters is the white crab and radish salad, paired with watercress and green sansho pepper. The dish emphasizes clarity and balance, inspired by Sydney’s seafood culture. The natural sweetness of the crab is lifted by the peppery bite of radish and greens, while sansho adds a subtle citrusy heat that ties the flavors together.

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Another highlight dish is the grilled mackerel bowl, which reimagines a traditional Japanese breakfast staple. Featuring summer tomatoes, a jammy egg, seri, and spring onion, the dish is seasoned with cumin and fennel—spices more commonly associated with Central Asia. This unexpected combination creates a layered flavor profile that bridges regions and traditions.

Fresh summer bounty

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Seasonality plays a central role in the Spring/Summer menu, particularly in salad options like the summer tomato and grilled courgette salad. Inspired by the Italian panzanella, this dish incorporates goat cheese, crispy sourdough, fresh stone fruit, basil, and a house-made chinking vinegar dressing. The use of stone fruit adds a subtle sweetness that complements the acidity of the tomatoes and vinegar, while the basil ties everything together with a fragrant finish. A vegan option is also available.

Newly reinvented breakfast and brunch

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bills has long been associated with elevated breakfast and brunch dishes, and the new menu continues that tradition while introducing fresh perspectives. A notable addition is the sesame and buckwheat flatbread, served with chive feta, seeded fragrant chili oil, cucumber, courgette, and mitsuba.

This dish draws inspiration from the breakfast cultures of both Beijing and New York, blending them into something entirely new. The use of buckwheat flour adds a sense of locality and nutrition, while the toppings bring together creamy, herbal, and spicy elements.

Colorful wines, cocktails, and mocktails

The beverage selection is equally ambitious, with a mix of alcoholic and non-alcoholic options that align with current global trends.

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One of the most notable additions is the oolong fizz, a cocktail that blends Aperol, oolong tea, lemongrass, and Prosecco. This drink exemplifies the “tea-tail” movement, which integrates tea into cocktail culture. It pairs Italian aperitif flavors with Chinese tea and Southeast Asian aromatics to achieve a balance of bitterness, sweetness, and fragrance. It’s a sophisticated option that complements a wide range of dishes.

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bills is also expanding its wine offerings with the introduction of a house orange wine: the Arinto Malvasia by Delinquente, produced in Riverland, South Australia. This skin-contact wine is made from organically grown Mediterranean grape varieties and is characterized by its tropical fruit notes and nutty finish. Its versatility makes it well-suited to the menu’s diverse range of dishes, particularly those with bold or layered flavors.

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For non-alcoholic choices, the peach and jasmine soda combines house-made peach purée with jasmine infusion, finished with sparkling water and a touch of lemon. It's floral and refreshing, ideal for daytime dining. Another option is the cucumber basil refresher, which features fresh cucumber juice, basil, citrus, and soda. Enhanced with a house-made grapefruit cordial and coriander seeds, the drink offers a complex herbal profile that goes beyond typical mocktails.

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The mango lassi, made with Greek yogurt, mango, lime, and a touch of Maldon salt, is another non-alcoholic standout, as well as the Japanese genmai tea sourced from Hoshino Seichaen, a respected tea producer based in Yame, Fukuoka. The tea is distinguished by its toasty roasted brown rice aroma and vivid green color, delivering a clean, refreshing flavor. Last but definitely not the least is the pineapple, grapefruit, and turmeric juice, which combines tropical fruit flavors with the earthy notes of turmeric.

Dessert comforts with a citrus edge

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A warm kinako madeleine, served with salted passionfruit and lime curd, introducing a contrasting brightness to all the dishes in the menu. Kinako, a roasted soybean flour commonly used in Japanese sweets, lends a nutty depth to the madeleine. The addition of citrus and passionfruit elevates the whole experience. The dessert can be served warm, paired with coffee or tea.

From beachside to city dining: the bills experience

While the menu stays rooted in its Sydney-inspired identity, each bills location across Japan brings its own personality to the table. The breezy, oceanfront feel of Shichirigahama contrasts with the polished rhythm of Ginza, yet the core of the experience remains unmistakably bills—thoughtful and produce-driven. It’s this attention to consistency and local character that has helped the brand grow globally without losing its sense of place.The Spring/Summer 2026 menu carries that same spirit forward, weaving together familiar signatures with seasonal touches.

Although the environment sounds intense, the sprawling scenery evokes a sense of tranquility instead, transporting you far from the hustle and bustle of modern life. Though if you are looking for some thrills, rest assured that Aso’s numerous hiking trails will satisfy your inner adventurer.

In between excursions, Aso also has plenty of facilities that highlight its regional food and specialties, including ASO MILK, Akaushi Beef, Kumamoto Ramen, and so much more. Your taste buds will not tire of the options.

As a base to experience all of Aso’s delights, we recommend Kamenoi Hotel Aso. Set in the city’s majestic nature, this family-friendly hotel, Aso offers newly renovated guest rooms and facilities, a wide range of activities, delectable cuisine, and a kid-friendly atmosphere, so everyone can enjoy the area in comfort.

Kamenoi Hotel Aso: A gateway to Aso’s outdoors

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At Kamenoi Hotel Aso, environmental immersion meets luxurious comfort. Your stay begins in the lobby where massive windows offer breathtaking views of Aso’s ever-changing scenery. This view extends to all of the hotel’s guest rooms, where the Five Mountains of Aso are on full display.

The hotel has also recently undergone large-scale renovations, refreshing its guest rooms, public bath, and lobby to create a modern and comfortable atmosphere, as well as adding new facilities, like a kids’ park, a sauna, and guest rooms with private open-air baths. These renewed offerings, coupled with the hotel’s overall kid-friendly atmosphere, make it a prime accommodation for everyone.

Even more, the hotel hosts a wide variety of activities and events. You can book reservations on the official activities page, turning a great stay into an unforgettable one.

Nature-view guest rooms

At Kamenoi Hotel Aso, your nature getaway doesn’t stop when you retire for the day in your room. Instead, the Five Mountains of Aso continue to shine from your guest room’s windows, allowing you to admire the landscape in comfort.

The hotel is home to a variety of room types, including Western-style rooms, Japanese-style rooms, and kids’ rooms. Many of the rooms were renovated and reopened in October 2025, so you can expect stylish, modern designs. Every room also comes equipped with a private bath, so guests who have tattoos or feel uncomfortable bathing in public can have peace of mind.

For an extra memorable stay, consider booking one of the hotel’s specialty rooms.

Kumamon rooms

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Created in 2011, Kumamon is the official PR mascot of Kumamoto Prefecture. This adorable bear character is known for his playful and curious personality, black body, bright red cheeks, and excited smile. In the Kumamon rooms, you can enjoy a contemporary hotel stay with an elegant touch of Kumamon. The rooms have Kumamon-themed items, like exclusive cups, plates, and plush toys, and if you fall in love with these goods, you can even purchase them at the hotel’s onsite shop. The guest rooms also feature tasteful Kumamon decor, perfect for kids and adults alike.

Deluxe rooms with open-air baths

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These newly added rooms take relaxation to the next level, each featuring a private open-air bath, an in-room sauna, a spacious terrace, and premium brand amenities. Whether you are interested in unwinding after a day of hiking or simply looking to relax in quiet luxury, this room is your gateway to paradise.

Kids terrace rooms

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Designed with children in mind, these rooms have fence-enclosed terraces that connect to the hotel’s lawn area, allowing kids to easily enjoy the outdoors. The room also features a chic forest design, a variety of play equipment, and a 254-centimeter (100-inch) smart TV. You can even borrow a telescope from the hotel to enjoy a magical night of stargazing.

Natural hot spring baths

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Kamenoi Hotel Aso’s hot spring water is sourced on-site from a private spring 1,200 meters underground. Nourished by Aso’s active volcanoes, the brown-tinted water contains high levels of silica (metasilicic acid)—far higher than many of Japan’s “beauty-enhancing” hot springs—and helps hydrate and smoothen the skin. This revitalizing water fills the hotel’s large indoor bath, which has flowing water for a gentle massage, and the open-air Japanese and Western-style baths, allowing you to enjoy a healing soak however you please. Be sure to try the bath’s shampoo bar as well, which showcases a variety of products for different hair types.

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Further enhance your spa experience with the hotel’s recently added dry sauna, mist sauna, and mud packs. The mud packs are filled with “onsen mud,” which consists of concentrated clay particles and minerals heated by volcanic geothermal energy over a long period of time. You can apply the mud, which has relaxation and detox benefits, to your face, as well as your body, leaving you feeling smooth and refreshed.

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For a satisfying sweat, unwind in the dry sauna and its corresponding relaxation space. However, if the dry sauna is a bit too intense for you, the mist sauna is an excellent alternative. This sauna uses Aso’s natural underground spring water, which is known for its soft, pure quality. The mist rests at about 40°C (104℉) and warms the body gently while maintaining skin moisture.

No matter how you choose to spend your time, you are guaranteed to feel like a new you. Don’t forget to pick up some complimentary ice cream after bathing!

Kumamoto-focused cuisine

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Kamenoi Hotel Aso brings Kumamoto’s delicacies to your plate—offering numerous dishes made with local and seasonal ingredients for breakfast (7am–9am) and dinner (5:45pm–9pm). The renovated restaurant is spacious and grants lovely views of Aso’s landscape, so you can enjoy the day’s changing colors as you dine.

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For dinner, the 100-dish buffet and live kitchen offer dishes like Dengaku skewers, Akaushi Beef rice bowls, grilled yamame fish, horse sashimi (basashi), ASO MILK, and sushi, while the Kids’ Corner ensures that all children can find something they enjoy, such as french fries, meatballs, and fried chicken. For a healthy crunch, fill up your plate at the salad bar with groundwater-nourished vegetables from Asozo Farm. This farm, nestled in Aso Valley, cultivates about 20 types of salad vegetables throughout the year. Finally, pair your meal with a beverage from the hotel’s wide selection of offerings, including beer, wine, and locally produced Kumamoto sake. You can even opt for a 90-minute, all-you-can-drink plan for ¥2,300. Of course, individual orders are also welcome. We recommend a tasting set of Kumamoto sake to truly enjoy the flavors of the prefecture.

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Breakfast showcases a buffet of Japanese and Western dishes.

Enriching facilities and activities

Kamenoi Hotel Aso is so much more than just a place to rest your head, it is an accommodation that immerses you in the region through its facilities and activities.

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Starting with Kids Park ASONIWA, this interactive facility is themed around Aso’s grand nature. Using content from Kamenoi Hotel Aso’s exclusive program “ASO PHONE,” the park invites you to play while learning about the region’s land, nature, and unique attractions. The space has four small rooms that are centered on specific activities, like picture books and building blocks. It is fun for children and parents!

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Outside, the hotel’s Lawn Area hosts a variety of activities weekly, such as horseback riding, bonfires, night yoga, dried flower craft workshops, and violin and piano concerts. You can also rent items for free, including indoor games, like kendama, UNO, board games, and playing cards, as well as outdoor equipment, like soccer balls, badminton sets, and scooters.

Rent some games and enjoy the fresh air, or relax outdoors peacefully with a welcome drink in hand.

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If you are interested in some shopping, the hotel’s on-site store is an excellent place to start. The shop sells products made by local artisans (including soaps, tea, and aroma oils), a wide selection of regional products (like sake and dairy goods), and adorable Kumamon merchandise (such as hats and plushies).

Things to do in Aso, Japan

Of course, Kamenoi Hotel Aso is just the beginning of your Aso adventure. Let’s learn more about what this region has to offer.

Awe-inspiring nature

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Arguably, Aso’s greatest lure is its natural beauty. Home to Aso-Kuju National Park, one of Japan’s oldest national parks, Aso is shaped by its volcanic peaks, vast grasslands, highland marshes, and dense forests. The verdant terrain, mountainous vistas, and volcanic smoke create a captivating environment that begs to be explored.

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Let’s start with the majestic Mount Aso, the region’s beating heart. This unique mountain is composed of five peaks located within one of the world’s largest calderas, making it a prime hiking spot. The Five Mountains of Aso are:

• Mount Nakadake (1,506m): This active volcano rests at the center of the Five Mountains of Aso. Considered one of Japan’s most active volcanoes, Mt. Nakadake is popular for its observable crater, emerald-green volcanic lake, and nearly ever-present volcanic smoke—a rare experience worldwide. Although the crater may be inaccessible due to volcanic activity, it is a must-see if it is open. You can easily reach the mountain by local bus from Aso Station.
• Mount Takadake (1,592m): This mountain is the highest peak of the Five Mountains of Aso. From the summit, you can enjoy sweeping views of Mt. Nakadake, Mt. Nekodake, and the surrounding caldera landscape.
• Mount Kishimadake (1,326m): Situated north of the Kusasenrigahama grassland, this mountain is a popular hike for beginners thanks to its well-maintained trails. Generally, you can reach the summit within 30 to 40 minutes. Though be warned, the hike includes approximately 900 steps. At the top, you are granted incredible views of Mt. Nakadake, the Kusasenrigahama grassland, and the massive Aso Caldera.
• Mount Eboshidake (1,337m): This mountain rests south of the Kusasenrigahama grassland and is known for its beautiful conical shape. From the summit, you can admire panoramas of Mt. Nakadake, Mt. Takadake, Mt. Kishimadake, the Aso Caldera, and Nango Valley.

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Now that we have touched the sky with Aso’s iconic peaks, let’s go back to Earth with the famous Kusasenrigahama grassland. Designated as a national scenic and natural monument, this vast grassland is nestled within a crater formed roughly 30,000 years ago. It rests about 1,100 meters above sea level, offering a postcard-perfect scene of grazing horses and cattle with the smoking Mt. Nakadake in the background.

In autumn, the area becomes especially spellbinding when it turns golden with pampas grass—which peaks between late September and early November. Thanks to the grassland’s close proximity to Mt. Eboshidake, visitors often pair the two destinations together while sightseeing.

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For more pampas grass paradise, we also recommend visiting the Milk Road, located north of the Aso Caldera. Along this scenic road, pampas grass stretches infinitely on both sides. The area is especially magical during sunset, when the warm, backlit grass shines silver and gold.

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On the topic of milk, Aso Milk Factory is an excellent place to visit when you are in the area. Not only does the factory produce the award-winning ASO MILK, it also is home to one of the largest rose gardens in Western Japan. The garden boasts about 1,500 roses and 600 varieties. The best times to visit are between late April and early June for the spring roses and mid-October to mid-November for the autumn roses. After enjoying the aromatic flowers, be sure to pick up some quality dairy products sold on site.

Heading back to the Aso Caldera area, Sensuikyo Gorge is another popular spot for flowers, specifically Miyama Kirishima azaleas. Located on Mount Aso’s northern slope and resting approximately 900 meters above sea level, this gorge transforms into a pink-purple haven when its 50,000 naturally growing azaleas bloom in mid-May.

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For a taste of nature, head south of Mount Aso to Shirakawa Spring. Located within Shirakawa Yoshimi Shrine, this famous spring is listed among Japan’s 100 best natural water sources. Every minute, about 60 tons of 14°C (57℉) clear water gushes from the southern foothills of Aso volcano, Japan. Bring a bottle to this spring and taste nature’s purity for free. You can even fill up the bottle and bring it back to your hotel room to enjoy later.

Rich culture

While its nature is tens of thousands of years old, Aso’s cultural heritage is equally as deep.

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Starting with Aso Shrine, Japan, this famous spiritual power spot has roughly 2,500 years of history. It is best known for its grand tower gate, which is recognized as a nationally designated Important Cultural Property and considered one of Japan’s three greatest shrine gates. The shrine also features a rare sideways approach where you can sample the local specialty Barokke (horse meat croquette) and explore spring water spots. A visit to this shrine is a perfect balance of local atmosphere and sacred serenity.

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Kamishikimi Kumanoimasu Shrine is another revered Aso destination, nestled atmospherically in the woods. This mystical shrine is best known for its enchanting approach lined with about 100 moss-cloaked stone lanterns, making you feel as though you are stepping into another world. Its captivating ambience served as the inspiration for the anime movie Hotarubi no Mori e (Into the Forest of Fireflies’ Light), as well as the filming location for Rurouni Kenshin. Within the shrine grounds, the giant wind cave, Ugetoiwa, is said to grant exam success and victory in competitions.

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If you are feeling a bit weary from traveling, then you need to take a day trip to Kurokawa Onsen. This charming hot spring town nestled in a valley is home to around 30 traditional inns (ryokan) and has earned two stars in the Michelin Green Guide for its scenic atmosphere. We recommend purchasing a wooden onsen pass (Nyuto Tegata), which grants you access to numerous baths. Hop between seven types of hot springs for an utterly relaxing experience.

Local food and souvenirs

Kumamoto has no shortage of facilities where you can sample its unique eats. For instance, in front of Kusasenrigahama, there is a tourist facility where you can savor local specialties (like Akaushi Beef hamburg steaks and Dago-jiru), unwind in a cafe, and peruse a souvenir shop. What makes the facility exceptionally special is its numerous wide windows that provide mesmerizing views of the encircling scenery.

In the same building is a coffee roastery produced by the popular Kumamoto cafe brand. This stylish facility also overlooks Kusasenrigahama and offers a variety of cafe drinks. Enjoy your cup of bliss as you gaze at the spectacular landscape— indoors or on the cafe’s veranda. Be sure to check out the shop next door as well to peruse its stylish original products.

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Michi-no-Eki Aso is an excellent place for Kumamoto food and wares. Conveniently located next to Aso Station, this roadside station offers a wide selection of local products and has a tourist information center—perfect for planning your adventure ahead.

About a two-minute walk from the roadside station is an Usopp Statue. Installed in December 2019 as part of the One Piece “Straw Hat Pirates Hino Country Reconstruction Project,” this statue symbolizes recovery after the 2016 Kumamoto Earthquake. Usopp stands as a symbol of hope, bringing back smiles to Aso’s nature and people.

For ease of use, listed below are Kumamoto food specialties and culinary souvenirs. Try to taste as many as you can!

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Horse sashimi (Basashi): For this dish, fresh horse meat is thinly sliced and served raw, offering a unique culinary experience for international visitors. It is known for its delicate, slightly sweet flavor.

Akaushi Beef, Japan: This lean wagyu is raised on Aso’s grasslands and is known for its balanced marbling, rich flavor, and tender texture. It is widely recognized under the brand name “Kumamoto Akaushi.”

Dago-jiru: This hearty soup features hand-kneaded wheat dumplings, seasonal vegetables, and chicken simmered in a miso or soy sauce-based broth. It is especially comforting during colder months. It is a regional cuisine from the Kyushu region, centered on Kumamoto Prefecture.

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ASO MILK: Produced by Abe Farm in Aso and delivered fresh to Kamenoi Hotel Aso, this high-quality, low-temperature pasteurized milk received a three-star award from the International Taste Institute. The hotel even uses it to make ice cream! So, after your delicious meal, be sure to treat yourself to the hotel’s popular milk-flavored soft serve ice cream made with ASO MILK. It is a memorable dessert loved by all ages.

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Karashi Renkon: This traditional Kumamoto dish is made by stuffing boiled lotus root with a mixture of Japanese mustard and miso. It is then coated in a batter of flour and egg yolk and deep fried, giving it an addictive crunch and bold flavor.

Takana-meshi: This traditional Aso dish is made by mixing warm rice with stir-fried pickled mustard greens (takana) and is typically topped with shredded egg and pickled ginger. The takana’s slightly spicy flavor paired with aromatic sesame oil creates a smile-inducing bite. Locally, it is often enjoyed alongside dago-jiru as a comforting home-style meal.

Kumamoto Ramen: This regional style of ramen features medium-thick straight noodles and a rich, yet mild pork-bone broth blended with chicken stock. It is typically topped with fragrant mayu (black garlic oil) and fried garlic, giving it a bold aroma and deep flavor.

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Chikuwa Potato Salad: For this popular home-style Kumamoto dish, chikuwa (tube-shaped fish cakes) are filled with potato salad and deep-fried as tempura, creating a uniquely local side dish.

Taipien: This Kumamoto specialty dish starts with a base of chicken and pork bone broth and is topped with glass noodles, vegetables, seafood, pork, and a deep-fried boiled egg.

Jindaiko: This famous Kumamoto sweet, born in the late 1950s, features high-quality Dainagon red beans from Hokkaido wrapped around soft gyuhi (sweet rice cake), forming a cylindrical jelly-like confection. Its refined sweetness and unique texture are expertly preserved through a special paper-can packaging method.

Reizan Sake: This local sake is brewed by Yamamura Shuzo, a brewery founded in 1762. The authentic regional sake is made with Aso rice and pure underground spring water and is known for its clean, dry taste. Enjoy it at Kamenoi Hotel Aso!

Aso Tea: This healthy tea specialty originated in the Aso region. Popular varieties include “Aso Sansocha” and “Bancha (All-Purpose Tea).” Typically made with corn and a blended mix of 17 mountain herbs, this caffeine-free tea has a fragrant, roasted flavor and a refreshing herbal aroma.

Aso Marukichi Soy Sauce: Established in 1870, this long-established soy sauce brewery uses Shirakawa Spring’s pure water and the region’s unique climate to produce soy sauce and miso following traditional methods. Its flagship product “Daigin” is known for its rich sweetness and umami.

Create an unforgettable adventure in Aso

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Aso’s great outdoors are waiting to enchant you—from its powerful volcano and majestic mountains to its verdant grasslands and vibrant pampas grass. Close to nature, the region’s delectable cuisine, cultural heritage, and nourishing hot springs further immerse you in the environment, delighting both your inner adventurer and relaxation-seeking soul.

Kamenoi Hotel Aso brings the region’s allure to the forefront of its offering, ensuring that everyone, no matter their age, can fully appreciate Aso.

Access to Kamenoi Hotel Aso

Tokyo to Kumamoto travel is easy by shinkansen or plane.

Train: From Tokyo Station, take the JR Tokaido Shinkansen (Nozomi) to Hakata Station in Fukuoka. Then, board the JR Kyushu Shinkansen (Sakura) for Kumamoto Station. The entire journey takes roughly five hours and 40 minutes. From Kumamoto Station, you can take a Limited Express train directly to Aso Station in about one hour and 30 minutes.

Plane: Haneda Airport offers a direct, two-hour flight to Aso Kumamoto Airport. From there, take the Airport Liner to Higo Ozu Station. The ride takes about 17 minutes and is free of charge! From Higo Ozu Station, board a Limited Express train on the Hohi Line to Aso Station (about 50 minutes to an hour).

From Aso Station, catch one of the hotel’s free shuttle buses, which run between the station and hotel twice a day. The journey takes about 15 minutes and requires a reservation. Though you can also book a ride at the front desk the day before your departure.

You can also reach the hotel on foot from Miyaji Station, also on the Hohi Line. The walk takes about 20 minutes.

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If you are looking for an extra special train experience, consider boarding the sightseeing Limited Express train Asoboy, operated by JR Kyushu. This adorable train is decorated with approximately 100 motifs of Kuro-chan, a spirited dog character who appears throughout the train’s exterior, interior, and merchandise. You can even find related goods in Aso Station. In addition to Kuro-chan, the train ride also features delicious food and drinks, as well as charming nature views.

This playful train travels between Kumamoto Station and Miyaji Station, departing twice from Kumamoto and twice from Miyaji daily. You must reserve a ticket in advance to ride this train. For more information and ticket details, check out Asoboy’s homepage.

If you are traveling by car, the hotel also offers free parking.

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Recently named one of the world's most charming villages by Traveller, as featured in the Australian publication Brisbane Times, Kurokawa Onsen stands out for preserving an atmosphere that feels both timeless and intentional. With a population of just a few hundred, it leans fully into its identity as a rural retreat.

As the piece in Traveller mentioned, Kurokawa has deliberately avoided the overdevelopment seen in some other onsen towns. Concrete buildings and bright signage are absent, with traditional wooden ryokan, rustic bathhouses, and a muted palette of browns and greens shaping the village's look and feel.

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Set within Aso-Kuju National Park, the village is designed for slowing down. Cars are largely kept out, leaving quiet laneways that wind between inns, shops, and open-air hot springs. The Traveller feature also highlights that the experience here is less about ticking off sights and more about simply being present, whether that means wandering between baths, walking nearby trails, or soaking in the calm surroundings.

For additional information about Kurokawa Onsen, explore our website.

The new 700 series began running this month on the much-loved Enoden Line, a scenic route connecting Fujisawa, Enoshima, and Kamakura. Known for its nostalgic charm and oceanfront views, the line has long been a favorite among both locals and travelers, making this update a notable milestone.

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While the new train retains the Enoden Line's signature green color, it brings a number of upgrades which have been designed to improve both comfort and the overall travel experience. Larger front windows create a more open feel, while cross-facing seats have been installed along the seaside-facing side of the carriage, allowing passengers to better enjoy the coastal scenery. At the same time, seating has been slightly reduced to ease congestion during busy periods.

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Additional touches aim to enhance the journey in more subtle ways. Window treatments help reduce glare, making views clearer even on bright days, and LED lighting contributes to a more energy-efficient interior. The train also features a regenerative braking system, cutting power consumption significantly compared to older models.

To mark the launch, limited-edition commemorative ticket sets were released, featuring images and design diagrams of the new train, giving fans a keepsake tied to this long-awaited update.

For more information about the Enoden Line (and to explore some of the more retro-styled carriages), explore some of our articles below:

• The Enoden Line
• The Enjoyable Enoden Line (video format)

That same energy is now being brought into Yakiniku King's limited-time Shin-Okubo Fair, running from April 22nd, 2026 through early July at all Yakiniku King locations nationwide. The popular all-you-can-eat BBQ chain is known for its relaxed, family-friendly style, and this collaboration leans into Korean flavors inspired directly by Shin-Okubo's restaurant scene.

The idea behind the fair is to bring some of Shin-Okubo's most talked-about dishes into a single, easy dining experience, and the menu features collaborations with well-known eateries and brands. Highlights include marinated pork ribs from Aomatsu (649 JPY including tax), soaked in a sweet-and-savory fruit-and-vegetable sauce, and Kantonjip stone-pot dakdoritang (649 JPY including tax), a warming spicy chicken stew made with gochujang, potatoes, and onions.

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Street food-style favorites also make an appearance, including a mozzarella cheese hot dog inspired by Jongno, and Prinkle potatoes from LUNA (both 429 JPY including tax). Prinkle seasoning is a Korean-inspired cheese powder blend with onion and garlic flavors, and it gives a savory yet slightly sweet kick.

One of the standout collaborations comes from well-known Korean fried chicken brand Nene Chicken, featured here with its signature yangnyeom chicken (429 JPY including tax). Crispy fried chicken is coated in a rich sweet-and-spicy sauce, bringing one of Korea's most iconic comfort foods into the Yakiniku King lineup.

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If you're more of a noodle fan, the Shin Ramyun Toomba (539 JPY including tax) stands out as a creamy, spicy twist on instant ramen that's been gaining attention online for its rich, pasta-like flavor.

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If you wander further within the prefecture, you’ll discover Tondabayashi—a city that celebrates abundance in both flavor and experience, offering not only delicious cuisine but also a wealth of beautiful sightseeing opportunities. This is not your usual Osaka experience, so it’s a good addition to your Kansai itinerary.

To make the most of your visit, elevate your stay with a perfect base for exploring Tondabayashi and its surrounding cities. KAMENOI HOTEL TONDABAYASHI ALL-INCLUSIVE RESORT, perched near the summit of Mt. Dake, is a good option and an inviting retreat that reinterprets Osaka’s food culture through the lens of relaxation.

The hotel is just an hour from the urban intensity of Osaka and offers a refreshing change of pace. Use this itinerary to make the most of your stay and discover unique things to do in Tondabayashi, with the hotel as your perfect base.

A different kind of Osaka escape

Tondabayashi and its surrounding cities and sightseeing spots offer a glimpse into a more traditional side of Osaka. Known for its historical atmosphere and friendly local community, the area is distinct from the city’s more commercial districts.

Culture and urban oasis in Tennoji Area

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Start your journey in the vibrant Tennoji district, where layers of culture, spirituality, and city greenery converge. Shitennoji Temple, the oldest state-sponsored Buddhist temple in Japan, anchors this area with its grand five-story pagoda and peaceful grounds.

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Just a few minutes’ walk away, Keitakuen Garden offers a tranquil escape with its Meiji-era (1868-1912) strolling pond and seasonal landscapes, while Tennoji Park surrounds you with lush lawns, family-friendly play areas, and a lively cafe scene. Within the park, art enthusiasts can explore the Osaka City Museum of Fine Arts, home to thousands of Japanese and Chinese masterpieces, and animal lovers can visit Tennoji Zoo, renowned for its ecological exhibits and diverse animal collection.

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Not far from the previous sites, the dazzling Sanzenbutsudo Hall and the Temple of the Bone Buddha, both within Isshinji Temple, provide unique opportunities to experience the beauty and depth of Japanese Buddhist culture.

Going south to Tondabayashi

Venture south to Tondabayashi, a district where the atmosphere of old Japan lingers in every street. The historic Jinaimachi district transports visitors to the Edo period (1603-1868), with its well-preserved townhouses, important cultural properties, and traditional ambiance.

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Then, explore the Former Sugiyama Residence, the oldest townhouse in town, and continue to the Jinaimachi Exchange Center, which serves as welcoming hubs for learning, resting, and connecting with the local community. The nearby Jinaimachi Observation Plaza also offers sweeping views of the surrounding mountains.

For hands-on experiences, stop by the Tamatebako of Past and Present atelier to try kirie paper-cutting, an immersive activity that blends creative expression with Japanese tradition. The process begins by selecting a kirie design and learning basic cutting techniques, followed by creating your own paper-cut artwork, which is then framed with a layer of washi paper.

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Alternatively—for an outdoor hands-on experience, you can go to Tondabayashi Savor Farm, where you can pick seasonal fruits, enjoy flower fields, and taste the region’s famous eggs, all within a sprawling agricultural park.

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Nature and spiritual escapes

Expand your adventure to the outskirts of Osaka, where nature and spirituality await amid tranquil landscapes. Nishikori Park offers a vast expanse of satoyama (a Japanese ecological landscape), playgrounds, and plum groves, making it ideal for leisurely walks and family outings. Nearby, Nishikori Shrine stands as a testament to centuries of devotion, its Muromachi-period (1392 - 1573) architecture and serene setting offering a peaceful retreat.

Not far off, Takidani Fudo Myoo-ji Temple beckons with its legendary status among Japan’s “Three Great Fudo,” famed for the unique Dojo-nagashi ritual and its reputation as a guardian for healing and recovering from eye diseases.

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For a more secluded spiritual experience, the Takemikumari Shrine is nestled in a quiet, nature-rich setting, revered as the protector of water and cherished as a local “hidden sanctuary.”

Some modern marvels

Immerse yourself in Osaka’s contemporary side by venturing into its innovative parks and interactive attractions. For a unique cultural adventure, Ninja-do lets you step into the world of ninjas with authentic costumes, hands-on training, and VR experiences.

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To experience the city’s commitment to art, nature, and innovation, travel to the Expo ’70 Commemorative Park, a vast space on the former World Expo site where Taro Okamoto’s Tower of the Sun stands as a bold symbol of Osaka’s creative spirit and forward-thinking attitude.

Local food and souvenirs

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No trip to Osaka is complete without indulging in its renowned culinary offerings. A good Osaka food experience, for one, should include Takoyaki (octopus balls) and okonomiyaki (savory pancakes) — the city’s signature street foods, drawing crowds at Kuromon Market and the city’s vibrant food stalls.

For a taste of local and modern tradition, the Hamburg Steak Obanzai Lunch at Kominka Cafe Yupuku in Tondabayashi is a standout, featuring a juicy steak paired with beautifully presented obanzai side dishes.

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Be sure to seek out some lesser-known gems as well. Kushikatsu—skewered and deep-fried morsels of meat and vegetables—are especially popular in the Shinsekai district, offering a crispy, satisfying bite. Don’t miss out on hakozushi, Osaka’s distinctive pressed sushi, or the comforting bowl of kitsune udon, featuring sweet fried tofu in a delicate broth.

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Beyond the dining table, Osaka’s markets and specialty shops are perfect for discovering edible treasures to bring home. In addition to popular gifts like freshly roasted coffee beans from Heizo Coffee Bean Store, keep an eye out for savory treats such as mentaiko (spicy cod roe) and takosen, a unique street snack made by sandwiching takoyaki between senbei rice crackers. For those with a sweet tooth, beautifully packaged traditional confections like Mitarashi Komochi (mochi with sweet and savory soy sauce filling), manju, and dorayaki can be found throughout the city’s shopping streets.

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For something truly unique, consider bringing home a piece of local artistry. Kirie artworks from neighborhood ateliers make for memorable keepsakes, reflecting Osaka’s creative spirit and attention to detail.

Start and end your journey at KAMENOI HOTEL TONDABAYASHI ALL-INCLUSIVE RESORT

On the slopes of Mt. Dake, KAMENOI HOTEL TONDABAYASHI ALL-INCLUSIVE RESORT offers a unique retreat that blends comfort and the beauty of rural Osaka with an all-inclusive concept. It’s a restful escape from city life with everything you could possibly need and a convenient base for exploring the region’s historical towns and scenic landscapes.

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Starting March 1, 2026, KAMENOI HOTEL TONDABAYASHI ALL-INCLUSIVE RESORT began operating as an accommodation with a “kuidaore” (eat until you drop) concept. The idea is simple: once you arrive, everything is taken care of. Meals, drinks—including alcohol—and a range of activities are included in the accommodation fee. What sets this approach apart is its thoughtful reflection of Osaka’s culinary culture. The emphasis is on variety, seasonality, and the guest’s overall comfort—not just sheer plenty!

Here’s what you can expect from the all-inclusive experience:

All-inclusive welcome

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Guests can begin enjoying the all-inclusive feature even before check-in. From 11:30am to 4pm, the hotel cafe serves welcome light meals—pizza, pilaf, egg roll sandwiches—alongside soft drinks.

Throughout the hotel’s common spaces, drinks remain freely available all day. The lobby lounge offers beer, wine, coffee, and soft drinks at any time, while both dinner and breakfast come with all-you-can-drink options.

For guests arriving late or those simply craving more after dinner, Kamenoi Hotel Group’s signature late-night treat is on offer: the Jigoku Meguri Yonaki Tantanmen. This comforting bowl of noodles serves as a perfect nighttime snack.

Guest rooms

The guest rooms are ideally suited for unwinding while taking in the surrounding scenery. The hotel’s elevated location provides sweeping views over the Osaka Plain, inviting guests to unwind while gazing at panoramic sunsets and the distant city skyline. The tranquil environment, surrounded by forests and gentle mountain air, creates an atmosphere of relaxation that is hard to match in the bustling Kansai region.

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Options range from Japanese-style tatami rooms to Western-style accommodations and hybrid Japanese-Western designs with or without observation baths. Each room is oriented toward the surrounding landscape, offering wide views that shift with the seasons. Inside, thoughtful details enhance the experience: tea sweets and tea bags encourage guests to slow down and enjoy the space.

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For those choosing Japanese-style rooms, futons are prepared in advance, particularly for international visitors unfamiliar with traditional bedding. Some rooms do not include private baths, but the communal onsen is a central feature of the hotel's wellness offering.

The onsen experience

The hotel’s natural hot spring is drawn from its own source, offering a chloride-rich bath known for its heat-retaining and moisturizing properties. It leaves a gentle warmth that lingers long after you step out, so it’s often referred to as a “finishing bath.” This feature makes it a standout option for a hot spring hotel near Osaka.

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From the large public bath, views extend toward the surrounding mountains, including Mount Kongo and Mount Yamato Katsuragi. The scenery adds a quiet dimension to the experience, and it shifts depending on the time of day and season.

After bathing, guests can relax with complimentary ice treats or unwind in massage chairs.

Dining as the centerpiece

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Food is, naturally, at the heart of the stay. Morning at the hotel starts the culinary journey with a buffet of around 60 dishes. While variety is impressive, the focus remains on regional specialties and ingredients sourced from nearby areas.

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Dishes such as doteyaki—a rich, sweet-savory stew of simmered beef tendon—offer a taste of Osaka’s comfort food tradition. Steamed vegetables from Kizu Market highlight the natural sweetness of produce, while freshly boiled shirasu from Osaka Bay brings a delicate marine flavor to the table. There are also more traditional elements: chagayu (tea rice porridge), light Kansai-style udon, and miso soup enriched with crab.

Dinner is presented as kaiseki cuisine, where seasonal ingredients and local produce are prepared with precision and care. Each course comes with appetizers, sashimi, cold dishes, a main course, and dessert—all served in a calm tatami setting that encourages you to slow down.

The highlight is the “Kiwami” course, which features an original crab-focused menu alongside wagyu beef and is available year-round—making it a top choice if you’re looking for an all-you-can-eat crab experience in Osaka. For guests traveling with children, there are also “Children’s Kaiseki” and a “Children’s Set Meal” options.

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Seasonality plays an important role as well. In spring (March to May), for instance, dishes like lotus root manju in white miso incorporate subtle bitterness from ingredients like mugwort and burdock—a nod to the Japanese saying that spring cuisine should include a hint of bitterness.

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Drinks complement the experience seamlessly. From beer and wine to sake sourced from Osaka breweries, as well as shochu and fruit liqueurs, the selection is extensive—yet offered with pairing and enjoyment in mind.

Common areas and activities

Part of the appeal of an all-inclusive stay is the absence of making hard decisions and the presence of full relaxation and enjoyment. KAMENOI HOTEL TONDABAYASHI ALL-INCLUSIVE RESORT offers complementary leisure activities for all ages.

Board games, from UNO to Jenga and Othello, are available for free rental. For those seeking something more active, there are common areas with karaoke, table tennis, pickleball, and even tennis courts.

The top floor features an observation room, offering spectacular 360° panoramic views that capture the full expanse of the Osaka Plain and stunning sunsets.

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Souvenir shop

The hotel’s on-site shop is another great place to discover regional flavors and take home a taste of your travels. Here, you’ll find a selection of foods and produce crafted by local artisans, including fresh seasonal fruits like strawberries. The shop also offers an array of popular Osaka-area pickles and traditional sweets.

Access

Reaching the hotel is surprisingly simple. From central Osaka or Shin-Osaka Station, the Osaka to Tondabayashi train takes roughly an hour. A complimentary shuttle bus runs six times a day, and no advance reservation is necessary—just be at the boarding point by the scheduled departure time. Guests traveling by car, meanwhile, can take advantage of free on-site parking.

Southern Osaka paired with an all-inclusive stay

KAMENOI HOTEL TONDABAYASHI is an all inclusive hotel in Osaka and part of the renowned Kamenoi Hotel Group. With its serene setting near Mt. Dake, the hotel offers not only panoramic views and restful accommodations, but also easy access to the area’s historical townscapes, spiritual landmarks, and natural escapes. Every aspect—from the attentive hospitality to the diverse amenities, including the best onsen near Osaka—ensures your stay is memorable and enriching, so make this all-inclusive experience your gateway to the hidden gems of Tondabayashi and beyond.

The Starbucks Coffee Oimachi Tracks Park Store opened in late March 2026, and it stands out for its scale and layout. With the largest seating capacity in the Oimachi Station area, it's noticeably easier to find a seat compared to many central Tokyo cafes. The space is designed with wide walkways, varied seating, and a simple flow that works well for solo visitors, small groups, and families.

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What makes the location more interesting for inbound travelers is what surrounds it. The cafe connects directly to Tracks Park, an open plaza where you can sit outside or move up to a rooftop area. From there, you get a clear view of trains moving through the station and aircraft approaching Haneda Airport.

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There's also a dedicated indoor area for visitors with dogs. While not essential for every traveler, it reflects a more flexible approach to how the space can be used, which is still relatively uncommon in Japan.

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For visitors staying in or passing through Tokyo, this cafe offers a straightforward way to step out of the pace for a bit. It's easy to reach from major hubs like Shibuya, but feels more open and less compressed than the city center. It works well as a short break between sightseeing stops or as a quieter start to the day before heading back into the busier parts of the city.

Unveiled earlier this month after a major renovation, the 5th floor of Terminal 1's Central Building has been transformed into a spacious and thoughtfully designed area that brings a touch of Japan's natural beauty indoors. Inspired by the country's changing seasons and the calming presence of water, the space invites travelers to slow down and soak up the atmosphere before departure or after arrival.

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One of the standout features is the welcoming atrium installation, "Ring of the Sky," which was created by bamboo artist Tanabe Chikunsai IV. From there, visitors can wander through a series of relaxation zones styled as a tea room, living room, and study, each offering a quiet place to rest, recharge, or simply take a breather from the bustle of travel.

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There's also a digital art installation inspired by bamboo forests, shifting with light and movement to create a soothing, immersive experience. Hungry? The food court, themed around the four seasons, adds a fun splash of color (and plenty of dining options) to the mix.

Families are well catered for too, with a dedicated kids' play area, while the revamped observation deck "GARDEN WALK" offers something truly special: greenery, flowing water, and even a footbath, all set against the surprisingly mesmerizing backdrop of planes taking off and landing.

If you have time to spare at Narita, this refreshed space is well worth a visit

Among the standouts is Rosewood Miyakojima, a luxury resort in Okinawa that leans fully into island life. Set on a serene stretch of coastline, it offers private villas and sweeping ocean views, making it an ideal choice for travelers looking to slow down and experience a side of Japan beyond its major cities.

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In contrast, Patina Osaka brings a sleek, contemporary feel to the heart of the city. Overlooking Osaka Castle, the hotel blends modern design with subtle Japanese touches and a strong focus on wellness, offering a calm retreat after a day of exploring.

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For a more traditional yet elevated experience, Gora Kadan Fuji stands out. Located near Mount Fuji, this ryokan-style property combines classic Japanese hospitality with refined luxury. Expect private baths, seasonal cuisine, and views that make the journey itself feel worthwhile.

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Together, these new openings highlight the range of experiences Japan offers. Whether you're after a beach escape, a convenient city base, or a cultural retreat, these hotels show that where you stay can be just as memorable as where you go.

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Rather than a traditional museum, this space recreates an entire neighborhood from decades past. Visitors can explore a retro school classroom, a local police box, and even a public bathhouse, all designed to reflect everyday life during the Showa period. There's also a nostalgic snack bar for a quick break, alongside interactive experiences like a vintage shooting gallery and working pachinko machines. From handwritten signs to old household appliances, every detail has been carefully curated to bring the era to life.

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For international travelers, the appeal lies in experiencing a different side of Japan. The Showa era was a time of rapid growth and rebuilding, long before the digital age transformed daily life. Objects were handmade, communication was personal, and communities were tightly connected. That warmth and human touch are at the heart of this experience.

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The recent rise of "Showa Retro" culture has made these aesthetics popular once again, especially among younger visitors and overseas travelers drawn to its blend of nostalgia and novelty.

Conveniently located within easy reach of central Tokyo hubs like Shibuya and Harajuku, the Odaiba Retro Museum offers a unique addition to any itinerary. It's perfect for those curious about Japan beyond its modern, high-tech appeal. Tickets can be purchased online ahead of your visit on the official website here.

It's a pop culture and gaming paradise

Shibuya Parco has become something of a pilgrimage site for fans of Japanese pop culture and gaming. Entire floors are dedicated to anime, manga, and game franchises, making it easy to explore without hopping between districts. Highlights include Nintendo Tokyo, a Pokémon Center, Capcom Store Tokyo, and the Sega Megastore TOKYO, which opened in July 2025 and adds even more gaming appeal. Limited-time pop-ups and collaborations rotate regularly, so even repeat visitors often find something new.

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There are loads of options for foodies

From casual bites to stylish dining, Shibuya Parco's food floors are worth visiting even if you're not shopping. You'll find Japanese comfort food, international cuisines, dessert cafes, and bars with city views. It's a convenient stop for travelers who want quality food without navigating long queues or unfamiliar streets, especially after a day of exploring Shibuya.

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It's a fashion and design destination

Parco has long been associated with cutting-edge fashion, and the Shibuya location continues that legacy. Expect a mix of Japanese designers, streetwear brands, and globally recognized labels. Many stores focus on limited collections or Japan-exclusive items, making it a good place to find something genuinely unique to take home.

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You'll find plenty of art, culture, and creativity spots

Shibuya Parco goes beyond retail with dedicated cultural spaces like Parco Museum Tokyo and Gallery X. These venues host rotating exhibitions focused on contemporary art, photography, fashion, and pop culture, adding depth to the shopping experience. It's not unusual to stumble across an exhibition you hadn't planned to see, which makes exploring the building feel more like discovering a creative hub than walking through a typical mall.

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There are scenic spots to rest and recharge

Upper floors and terrace areas offer places to sit, relax, and enjoy views of Shibuya. After navigating one of Tokyo's busiest neighborhoods, these quieter corners are a welcome pause before heading back out into the city.

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To explore more ahead of your visit, please check out the floor guide here.

Opened in March 2026, this stylish bookstore and lounge is directly connected to Oimachi Station, making it an easy stop between neighborhoods like Shinagawa and central Tokyo. The wider complex blends shops, dining, and entertainment options, so it works well as a one-stop break from a busy travel day.

Inside, the second floor offers a relaxed book and café space where you can flip through a thoughtfully curated selection of books while enjoying a drink from Starbucks. Even if you're not planning to buy anything, it's a comfortable place to sit, recharge your phone, and take a breather from the crowds.

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Upstairs, the share lounge adds a more flexible experience. With around 140 seats, quiet corners, and semi-private spaces, it is ideal for travelers who want to plan their next destination or simply unwind. Pricing is time-based, with a soft drink plan starting from around 1,430 JPY per hour, and a maximum daily rate of 4,950 JPY. Snacks and drinks are included, and you can also order food directly from the building's food court to your seat.

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If you do plan on stopping by, please note that the operating hours differ slightly depending on which area you want to access. The Starbucks is open from 7am until 10pm, the Share Lounge is open from 8am until 10pm, and the actual bookstore section is open from 10am until 10pm.

There were several of them sitting on the fence and in the trees just next to the road.

I squeezed the brakes on my rented e-bike and pulled to the side of the road where the monkeys allowed myself, my guide Jonathan, and several other people to take pictures. We weren't even one hour into the half-day cycling tour and already we'd been delivered monkeys, pink yaezakura flowers (a type of cherry blossom), trees swathed in spring's freshest green, expansive city views, and all the refreshing sights and sounds that the quiet mountain roads of Osaka's Minoh City have to offer.

Osaka is known for its castle; the neon lights, shopping and entertainment of the Dotombori and Shinsekai; and for delicious food items like takoyaki (savory octopus dumplings) and okonomiyaki (savory Japanese pancakes). It's not all hustle and bustle though. Minoh City, a short train ride to the north of Osaka offers an easy getaway to the mountains, the historic and beautiful Katsuoji Temple, and the scenic Minoh Waterfall. A cycling tour with Minoh Cycle Tours might be the best way to see and experience all of those things.

Minoh Cycle Tours is located a short (~5 minute) walk from Makiochi Station on the Hankyu Line. It provides guests with a friendly and knowledgeable local guide, and comfortable modern e-bikes that make the experience all the more fun.

Your guide will meet you at the Minoh Cycle Tours base, get you set up with a helmet and a bike, and then lead you up into the mountains on the way to Katsuoji Temple (entry included in the cost of the tour), and Minoh Waterfall. There are many places along the way that are worthy of stopping for a look and a picture, and your knowledgeable guide can provide you interesting information of the various sights. Come in the spring for Japan's signature pink sakura flowers, the autumn for fiery foliage, or summer for a cool mountain escape (winter is awesome too). Maybe you'll be lucky enough to see the monkeys too?

In Aomori, you don’t have to venture far to feel it. Even the car parks on the edges of Aomori’s national parks feel like thresholds—places where the human world ends and the wild begins. You leave behind the car, the symbol of modern life, and step into a realm where deer wander freely, butterflies hover at eye level, and black bears still command respect. In Aomori, the boundary between civilisation and nature is porous. You might spend the morning foraging for mountain herbs, only to encounter a deer crossing your path just as you think you’ve returned to “normal life.”

The beech trees at the nearby Shirakami-Sanchi world heritage national park have stood for millennia, quietly witnessing the rise and fall of human civilisations. It is little wonder that Aomori has long embraced a way of living that treads lightly—long before words like sustainability or vegan ever existed.

Forests That Shape Culture and Cuisine

The Shirakami Sanchi beech forest, a UNESCO World Heritage site, began forming around 8,000 years ago. For millennia, its trees have observed the daily dramas of birds, bears, serow, and humans alike. Artists continue to draw inspiration from its scale and serenity; it even served as a reference landscape for Princess Mononoke, that cinematic meditation on humanity’s fraught relationship with nature.

This reverence for the natural world is not abstract. It informs how people forage, how they build, and how they eat. Mountain vegetables (sansai), mushrooms, herbs, and leaves are gathered with care—often taking only what leaves the plant alive. The goal is continuity, not extraction.

It is from this worldview that Kuroyoshi Restaurant emerges—not as an anomaly, but as a continuation.

From Ancient Storehouse to Living Restaurant

Roughly 7,800 years after the Shirakami beeches first reached toward the sky, humans laid the foundations of what would later become Kuroyoshi Restaurant. The structures—traditional storehouses known as kura—were built in 1845 during the Edo period, originally serving the Ikedaya sake brewery.

Kura are architectural testaments to patience and durability. Their thick walls are layered with timber, stone, soil, and straw. Inside the Tenpō‑no‑ma room, a central pillar showcases a construction method normally reserved for temples and shrines, allowing the base of the pillar to be replaced if it rots—an intricate system designed not just to endure, but to adapt.

When the current owners excavated the foundations, they uncovered old tools, now preserved as quiet witnesses to the building’s past lives. What would those walls say if they could speak? What would the original sake brewers think if they knew their storehouse would one day host one of northern Japan’s most quietly radical dining experiences?

Today, these centuries‑old structures house Sousaku Ryori no Mise Kuroyoshi, a creative cuisine restaurant that bridges time periods as seamlessly as it bridges dietary worlds.

Dining in the In‑Between Worlds

Kuroyoshi exists in an in‑between space: between forest and town, past and modernity, vegan and non‑vegan. It is a place where carnivores, herbivores, and the merely curious can sit together at the same table.

Originally a meat‑and‑vegetable restaurant, Kuroyoshi now serves both traditional dishes and an expanding vegan menu. Families, couples, VIPs, and solo travellers dine side by side.

At its heart is owner‑chef Naonori Kikuchi—an architectural thinker, a cheerful host, and an endlessly curious cook. Since late 2022, he has been experimenting seriously with vegan cuisine, not as a trend but as a creative challenge. The result is a menu that invites sceptics in rather than pushing them away.

When Plants Become the Main Event

Seeing, in this case, really is believing.

A standout dish is the vegan “steak” made from konnyaku—a humble Japanese yam cake that is 97% water. When prepared properly, it sears, chews, and satisfies like a fatty cut of beef, soaking up umami‑rich glazes with ease. It’s paired better with beer or wine than sake, but it proves a powerful point: pleasure and restraint need not be opposites.

There is vegan pork belly. Vegan beef. Thoughtful vegan sushi with mushrooms, capsicum, ginger, and avocado. The fish substitutes are gentler, but the intent is clear—this is cuisine that invites everyone to the table without demanding ideological purity.

Foraged elements feature prominently. Sansai, mushrooms, and herbs gathered from the surrounding mountains bring the forest directly to the plate. The Dakekimi tempura, made from Aomori’s famously sweet corn, is so indulgent it borders on disbelief. The same corn even appears in dessert form as a silky pudding—proof that vegetables, treated with imagination, can surprise even the most devoted meat eater.

More Than a Meal

Why are people drawn to vegan food—especially when they’re not vegan?

For many, it is altruism, whether spoken aloud or quietly held. Studies suggest that environmentally conscious diners are motivated not just by personal health, but by a desire to reduce harm and act responsibly. In this sense, dining becomes more than nourishment; it becomes participation in a shared ethical landscape.

Japan has long understood this differently. Wabi‑sabi, hara hachi bu (eating to 80% fullness), seasonal ingredients, and careful harvests all suggest that restraint and reverence were embedded in the culture long before modern labels existed. Trees and rice are living organisms too, after all. Eating responsibly has never meant not eating—it has meant eating with awareness.

At Kuroyoshi, that awareness is not preached. It is practiced. You are simply invited to enjoy an excellent meal that happens to tread lightly.

A Table Where Worlds Meet

Foraging in Aomori is not without risk—black bears still roam these mountains, and stories of close encounters circulate quietly among locals. Nature here is not romanticised; it is respected. That same respect extends to the kitchen.

Kuroyoshi is ultimately a place for communion. Vegans and non‑vegans. Locals and travellers. Past and future. You share a meal in a building that has endured for nearly two centuries, built from materials shaped by forests that are thousands of years older still.

In Aomori, you don’t just eat at Kuroyoshi Restaurant. You enter a conversation—one that began long before us, and, if we’re careful, will continue long after.

Reminders of Neputa are never far away. A short stroll brings you to Irodori, where visitors can participate in hands-on craft workshops. Here, fragments of deconstructed lanterns are transformed into picture frames or room lamps—an inventive upcycling of Aomori tradition into something that resembles a stained-glass window. The shop’s owner, Masayuki Kimura, explains that he wanted to “create a place where people can relax and at the same time add a touch of joy to their daily lives as an extraordinary space,” while still complementing local crafts such as Kokeshi dolls and Hirosaki pigeon flutes.

Relaxation

When was the last time you heard only the gentle hum of a fish tank, or the contemplative silence before making your next chess move? At Kazen no Sho, this kind of calm comes easily. The lounge offers panoramic views of a Japanese garden, where flame-red leaves in Autumn contrast beautifully with moss-covered rocks, creating a scene that changes with the seasons.

Your invitation to unwind begins at check-in. Female guests may choose from a selection of yukatas in folk-inspired colours and patterns, while men will find standard yukatas prepared in their rooms. Slipping into one evokes the feeling of leisurely Japan in the 19th century—a small but meaningful immersion into tradition. Although these are provided as a welcome gesture, they’re not meant to be taken home. That said, should you grow attached, yukatas (and goldfish-themed souvenirs) are available for purchase in the hotel shop.

Keen observers of interior design may see tell-tale signs of the hotel’s 1970s origins, from its simple geometric finishes to the round elevator lights. Yet rather than feeling dated, the space is impeccably maintained. The careful attention to cleanliness and detail—seen in the woodwork, paper screens, and lanterns—imbues the hotel with warmth and quiet charm.

Although the building rises four storeys and offers modern conveniences such as elevators and remote-controlled lighting, it retains the feel of the countryside. Shoes are removed at the entrance, just like a traditional ryokan. The comfort of walking on the corridors, to breakfast, dinner, or to the hot spring baths in your yukata and bare feet or slippers, is very soothing after a long day travelling or sightseeing.

The pristine tatami corridors create something of an illusion, shrinking what is technically a large hotel into the intimacy of a ryokan. It’s both a visual and sensory experience.

Kazen no Sho also adapts to contemporary needs, offering Wi-Fi and introducing beds in some rooms—a blessing for those who struggle to sleep on futons. The only limitation may be breakfast, which is exclusively Japanese. Still, the all-day coffee machines in the lounge are a tempting consolation.

Dining Options

One of the great pleasures of staying at a ryokan like Kazen no Sho is enjoying meals in tatami-lined dining rooms while dressed comfortably in your yukata, without ever needing to step outside.

Dinner is served kaiseki-style, showcasing a range of satisfying local specialities. Expect scallops, rock fish, seasonal vegetables, beef, sashimi, salads, and chawanmushi—a delicate savoury egg custard. The soba sprouts were crunchy and enjoyable to the touch, while Mozuku a seaweed vinegarette made a delightful appetiser.

Likewise, the breakfast is a large meal with lots of small plates, so take the time to enjoy it, it is not meant to be rushed. If you have a morning deadline or appointment, like a train to catch, I suggest you come to breakfast early and take you time to enjoy the various delicacies.

What’s Nearby

Within walking distance are the Traditional Craft Centre and the Kokeshi Museum—pleasant stops that enhance the sense of place without disrupting the area’s peaceful atmosphere. Slightly further afield lies Nakamachi Komise Street, a historic stretch lined with century-old sake shops and even a second-hand LP record store boasting an impressive selection of 1960s and 1970s music, including the Beatles.

Quiet, nostalgic, and rich in local character, Kazen no Sho offers an experience that feels both timeless and gently surprising—much like its ever-present goldfish.

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Located inside the mixed-use complex OIMACHI TRACKS, this new spa is designed as an urban recovery space where visitors can reset both physically and mentally. For travelers, that convenience is a major draw. Being directly connected to a station means it is easy to slot into a busy sightseeing schedule, whether as a quick recharge between activities or a relaxing way to unwind after a long day exploring Tokyo.

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The standout feature is the tram sauna itself, a wooden sauna designed to resemble the interior of a vintage streetcar. With subtle lighting and steam effects that mimic movement, it creates the feeling of a slow, meditative journey. Beyond that, the facility offers a range of sauna styles and bathing experiences, including hot baths, cold plunges, and relaxation areas designed to help visitors fully decompress.

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What makes this especially appealing for inbound travelers is how accessible it is. Unlike traditional onsen, which can sometimes feel intimidating for first-time visitors, this space blends modern design, clear structure, and high-end amenities into a more approachable experience.

With added touches like a café lounge, post-sauna drinks, and even workspaces equipped with Wi-Fi, Sauna Metsä offers a place where sightseeing, self-care, and downtime can all exist in the one stop.

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One Korean skincare brand, Numbuzin, will open its first physical store in Japan at Mozo Wonder City in Nagoya on April 29th, 2026. The brand is known for its simple numbering system where products are categorized by skin concerns rather than names, making it easier for customers to choose items that suit their needs.

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The new store is designed as a space where visitors can test products directly and explore the full range in person. This kind of hands-on experience adds a new dimension to shopping for K-beauty in Japan, especially for those who prefer to try before they buy.

A pre-opening event on April 28th will give selected participants early access to the store, along with tailored samples and interactive content. One of the highlights is a DIY experience inspired by trends in Korea, where visitors can create their own personalized item.

Located inside a major shopping complex, the store offers another reason to visit Nagoya, particularly for beauty enthusiasts interested in experiencing one of the most influential trends in skincare today.

Huis Ten Bosch (Nagasaki)

If there is one ultimate destination for Miffy lovers in Japan, it has to be Huis Ten Bosch in Nagasaki. This Dutch-inspired theme park is home to the country's largest Miffy attraction, featuring rides, themed dining, merchandise shops, and photo opportunities dedicated entirely to the beloved bunny. The setting itself is especially fitting given Miffy's Dutch origins, with the park's European-style streets helping create the feeling of stepping into a real-life storybook. Seasonal events and limited-time merchandise also mean repeat visitors often find something new each time they go.

1-1 Huis Ten Bosch Machi, Sasebo, Nagasaki 859-3243

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Flower Miffy Asakusa (Tokyo)

Located in Tokyo's historic Asakusa district, Flower Miffy offers a unique spin on the traditional character goods shop by combining floral arrangements with exclusive Miffy merchandise. The store's elegant displays and overall aesthetic make it feel more like a boutique than a typical character shop, and it's particularly popular for its flower-themed collectibles and homewares. It makes for an ideal stop for fans wanting something a little more sophisticated than standard plushies, and its location near Sensoji Temple makes it easy to combine with regular sightseeing.

1F, Aiso Building, 2 Chome−19−7, Kaminarimon, Taito City, Tokyo, 111-0034

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Miffy Style Tokyo Station (Tokyo)

Tucked inside Tokyo Station's famous Character Street, Miffy Style is one of the best places in Japan to shop for exclusive Miffy merchandise. The compact but densely stocked store carries plush toys, stationery, kitchenware, seasonal collections, and Tokyo-exclusive items that can't easily be found elsewhere. Because of its central location, it's a convenient stop for travelers passing through the capital, and many fans consider it one of the easiest ways to pick up Miffy goods.

1 Chome−9−1, Marunouchi, Chiyoda City, Tokyo, 100-0005

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Miffy Sakura Kitchen Arashiyama (Kyoto)

Kyoto's Arashiyama district may be best known for bamboo groves and historic temples, but it's also home to one of Japan's cutest Miffy attractions: Miffy Sakura Kitchen. This themed bakery and gift shop sells Miffy-shaped breads, pastries, sweets, and exclusive Japanese-inspired merchandise in a setting designed to blend the character's charm with Kyoto's traditional aesthetic. The result is a spot that feels distinctly Japanese while still unmistakably Miffy.

20-27 Sagatenryuji Tsukurimichicho, Ukyo Ward, Kyoto, 616-8384

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Miffy Kitchen & Bakery Kawagoe (Saitama)

Located in the historic warehouse district of Kawagoe, often nicknamed "Little Edo," this Miffy bakery offers another charming stop for fans willing to take a short trip from Tokyo. The shop serves freshly baked Miffy-themed breads and sweets while also stocking a selection of exclusive merch, and the traditional kurazukuri (traditional warehouse) streetscape gives the location a distinct atmosphere. For visitors looking to combine character tourism with a classic day trip destination, it's an especially appealing option.

8-5 Saiwaicho, Kawagoe, Saitama, 350-0063

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Tochigi is among the prefectures represented at the event, distinguished by its particularly strong sake heritage. Stretching from the fertile Kanto plains up into the cedar-clad mountains of Nikko, it is a region where rich agricultural land and generations of brewing knowledge combine to produce some of the country’s most distinctive nihonshu.

Of the dozens of breweries working across the prefecture, two stand out not just for the quality of what they make, but for the very different ways they approach the craft—and both are well worth building a trip around.

Kobayashi Brewery, producer of the Houou Biden label, bridges past and present—a traditional house that has evolved without losing its roots. Senkin Brewery in Sakura City goes deeper with a brewery committed to recovering and preserving pre-industrial techniques and organic farming.

Both breweries are featured participants in Craft Sake Week 2026. Meeting these breweries on home turf, though, is another experience entirely.

Read on to find out what makes each one worth the trip…

Kobayashi Brewery—Houou Biden: 150 Years in Mita

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Kobayashi Brewery was founded in 1872, in the fifth year of the Meiji era (1868 - 1912), making it one of Tochigi's oldest surviving breweries. For 150 years it has stood more or less in the same spot, doing more or less the same thing: drawing on snowmelt from the Nikko range, selecting the finest local rice, and transforming both into ginjo sake of uncommon elegance. The house style ginjo is sake brewed from highly polished rice, fermented slowly at low temperatures to coax out aromatic compounds that don't exist in ordinary brewing.

The brewery is led today by 5th-generation president Masaki Kobayashi, and its flagship label, Houou Biden (phoenix of the beautiful paddy fields), a ginjo brewed from rice polished to 50% of its original size、has become one of the most sought-after names in Japanese sake. The kura (warehouse) sits along the old Nikko Reiheishi Kaido, the ancient ceremonial road that once carried offerings to the Nikko shrines—in what was historically known as Mita Village, a name that translates poetically as "beautiful rice paddy village."

The tour experience

Visiting Kobayashi Brewery allows you to walk into a working kura that has been continuously active for over a century. Visitors have the chance to learn how the brewery's water sourcing works, why sake fermentation requires such precise temperature management, and what distinguishes Houou Biden's style from the broader spectrum of Japanese sake.

The main brewery complex retains its traditional wooden architecture, and a tour here offers a rare look at how small-scale brewing actually works—from the steaming of rice and the cultivation rooms, where koji, the mold that converts starches into fermentable sugars is carefully tended, to the fermentation tanks where the sake slowly takes shape.

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In this particular tour, president Masaki Kobayashi personally leads the process with patience and precision, walking visitors through each room and explaining what is happening at every stage. It begins with the koji rooms. The first room is warm and humid—steamed rice has just been introduced to the koji mold spores, and the fermentation culture is in its earliest, most delicate phase. The second room is hotter and drier, where the koji is developing more actively, the rice grains hardening slightly as the mold works deeper into the starch—a faint sweetness already detectable in the air. By the third room, the koji is fully developed and ready: dry, firm, and fragrant.

From there the tour moves into the broader brewing process—how the finished koji is combined with water and yeast to build the fermentation starter, how that starter is gradually scaled up in the large fermentation tanks, and finally how the fully fermented mash is pressed to separate the clear sake from the remaining solids.

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The tour culminates, naturally, in tasting—the chance to sample directly from a brewery that produces one of Japan's most acclaimed ginjo labels should not be rushed.

For another part of the tour, visitors could also visit Kobayashi Brewery’s modern production facility, Hisyo Kura, purpose-built to meet the precision demands of ginjo brewing at scale using modern machines without compromising the craft. Temperature-controlled fermentation rooms maintain the consistently low conditions that ginjo requires, and the equipment—from the rice-washing and steaming lines to the pressing and filtration systems—is calibrated for the kind of careful, small-batch work that defines the Houou Biden style.

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The main Kobayashi Brewery is located at 743-1 Sotoshima, Oyama City, Tochigi. Hisyo Kura stands near the original kura. For tour details and reservations, visit hououbiden.jp.

Product lines and sake notes

If you've never had Houou Biden before, expect the aroma of fruits like muscat melon and apple on the nose and a dry finish that lingers longer than you'd expect. That is the house signature, and it runs consistently across the range.

The Akaban Junmai Daiginjo, among the widely known bottle and the one most sake shops outside Japan tend to carry first—clean, aromatic, and a reliable entry point into what the brewery does. The Asahi Mai Junmai Daiginjo steps it up: brewed from a rare heirloom rice variety, it is velvety and round, with mango and coconut layered beneath the signature muscat, and has become one of the brewery's most internationally acclaimed expressions. The Black Phoenix, made with Aiyama rice from Hyogo, goes richer and warmer—tropical fruit and ripe melon.

The brewery also produces a special line of sake with different flavors under its Nikko series, developed in partnership with Nikko branding initiatives and sold at prestige venues. It comes in three varieties built around locally grown Yumesasara rice and the sacred water of the Nikko shrines, ranging from a soft, fruity Junmai Ginjoshu to the ultra-refined Mikumari Junmai Daiginjo, polished to an extreme 25% and designed to taste, in the brewery's own words, like standing in the holy land of Nikko—plus a distilled spirit aged in Nikko oak barrels.

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Senkin Brewery: Radical Tradition in Sakura City

Drive about an hour northeast from Oyama and you arrive in Sakura City, a town whose name means "cherry blossom" and whose most famous sake producer has become one of the most philosophically rigorous breweries in all of Japan: Senkin Brewery.

Senkin Brewery was founded in 1806, during the heart of the Edo period (1603 – 1868), making it the oldest surviving brewery in Tochigi Prefecture. For over two centuries the Usui family brewed sake in its same, original site in Sakura, passing the label down through generations until 2008, when the brewery was brought to the edge of collapse and had to be liquidated and restarted from scratch.

It was the 11th-generation brothers who rebuilt it: Kazuki Usui, a former wine sommelier who took over as CEO, and his younger brother Masato, who trained at a brewery in Yamanashi and became toji (brewmaster). Together they made a decision that would change the brewery's trajectory entirely—and, as it turned out, influence the direction of Japanese sake more broadly.

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Senkin's symbol is the crane, a bird said to live in the celestial realm and its three founding colors tell you everything about the brewery's self-image: red for love, white for tradition, black for innovation. The flagship label Senkin is brewed under their Edo-gaeri philosophy using kimoto fermentation, organic rice, and the same underground water source that feeds the paddies where their grain is grown, has since become one of the most talked-about names in contemporary nihonshu.

The tour experience

A tour at Senkin is an immersion in a traditional sake world. The brewery occupies a centuries-old kura built from Oya stone, a volcanic rock quarried only in Tochigi, along the same stretch of the old Oshu Kaido where it has stood since 1806.

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The guided tour walks visitors through the entire process that makes Senkin’s approach so distinct. Every grain of rice in this building traces back to the same underground water source beneath Sakura City, the same water feeding the paddies outside where the brewery's own organic Kame-no-o rice grows.

The lessons start through the rice program first, explaining the significance of this ancient grain variety and what it takes to recover its original DNA in a modern agricultural context. From the field, the process moves inside: rice is steamed and brought into dedicated koji cultivation rooms, where the mold is grown on the grain using only the wild microorganisms naturally present in the kura itself—nothing introduced from outside. That cultivated koji then feeds into the kimoto fermentation process (one of the oldest methods in sake brewing), in which natural lactic acid bacteria from the brewery environment are developed from scratch rather than added as a commercial shortcut. It is one of the most labor-intensive methods in sake brewing, requiring brewers to physically stir the fermenting mash repeatedly over many cold winter nights.

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The mash eventually moves into the fermentation rooms, where it develops slowly in wooden kioke vats, each holding 3,000 liters, rather than stainless steel tanks, the air carrying the particular alive, slightly earthy smell of a kimoto brew in progress. Senkin uses every step of this process because they believe it produces the most complex and living sake possible.

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As with any great brewery tour, the experience concludes with tasting—an opportunity to work through the different expression families and understand, through your palate, what the Edo-gaeri philosophy actually produces in the glass.

Senkin Brewery sits at 106 Baba, Sakura City, Tochigi. For more information, visit senkin.co.jp.

Product lines and sake notes

Senkin's lineup is divided into four families, each expressing a different facet of the Edo-gaeri philosophy. The Organic Nature series is the flagship organic expression, with variants including a nigori (unfiltered), a kijoshu (a rich, sweet style made by substituting sake for water in the final fermentation stage), and a sparkling version. The Modern Senkin line applies the brewery's traditional techniques to a contemporary aesthetic. Retro Senkin leans deliberately into older flavor profiles and presentations. And Classic Senkin represents the most pure expression of the brewery's kimoto and traditional fermentation methods. There is also a Premium range for special releases.

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Go where the sake is

Both breweries are accessible from Tokyo by Shinkansen—Oyama Station (Kobayashi Brewery) is roughly 40 minutes from Ueno on the Tohoku Shinkansen, while Sakura City (Senkin) is most easily reached via the Utsunomiya line to Utsunomiya and then a local train or taxi.

A dedicated sake itinerary combining both breweries in a single day is feasible, though a weekend with a night in between allows for a more relaxed experience and the chance to pair your brewery visits with Tochigi's other considerable pleasures—not least the temples and waterfalls of Nikko, which Kobayashi Brewery considers its spiritual home ground.

Tours at both breweries are available year-round and are best arranged in advance through the respective websites. Groups and individuals are both typically welcome, and English-language support varies; it's worth confirming arrangements before your visit.

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If a trip to Tochigi isn't in the cards, especially for tourists, both Kobayashi’s Houou Biden and Senkin will be pouring at Craft Sake Week 2026. It's a far easier entry point for visitors based in Tokyo or passing through, and a genuine way to encounter not just Tochigi’s breweries but everything else Japan has to offer.

If you can make just one day, aim for April 17, the opening day, which kicks off with a sparkling sake toast and features an omakase dining experience alongside the breweries—the closest thing to a curated introduction to the best of what Japanese sake has to offer right now.

For more information, check the full schedule of Craft Sake Week 2026.

Operating under the concept of "Tradition Served Quietly," this property invites travelers to quiet their minds and deeply feel the flow of time. Whether you are exploring the nearby UNESCO World Heritage Itsukushima Shrine or seeking a peaceful escape, this hotel promises a transformative experience.

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Masterful Architecture by Fumihiko Sano

The physical space of HOTEL FORK & KNIFE is a work of art in itself. Designed by architect and artist Fumihiko Sano, the building seamlessly fuses the aesthetic of good old Japanese architecture with modern design sensibilities.

One of the most striking features is the hotel's entrance lobby. It houses a gallery space directly inspired by the iconic Noh stage of Itsukushima Shrine. Suspended from the ceiling, locally crafted Hiroshima lanterns cast a soft, welcoming glow over the regularly rotating art exhibitions, allowing guests to experience the culture of Miyajima with all five senses the moment they arrive.

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A Destination for Local Gastronomy

As the name suggests, culinary excellence is at the absolute heart of the HOTEL FORK & KNIFE experience. The restaurant is directed by Chef Ryo Ishihama, who brings an elite pedigree as the former sous chef of the Michelin one-star seafood French restaurant "abysse".

The dining experience focuses heavily on "Local Gastronomy," respecting Hiroshima's rich food culture while adding new expressions.

• The Firewood Dinner: Guests are treated to a meticulous 11-course dinner that utilizes the dynamic power of firewood cooking to draw out the natural flavors of the region's sea and mountain ingredients.

• Fresh Donabe Rice: The restaurant features an in-house rice mill, ensuring that the rice is milled right before being carefully cooked in a traditional earthen pot (donabe).

• Perfect Pairings: Meals can be paired with sake from famous brewing areas like Saijo, alongside local Hiroshima wines and craft beers.

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Rooms Designed for Relaxation

The hotel offers a variety of room types—from the cozy Hinoka and Seoto rooms to the expansive 180-square-meter Premium Suite Midori.

Every room harmonizes the warmth of natural wood with modern design and features carefully selected Japanese art. Many rooms incorporate a koagari (a raised Japanese-style seating area) so guests can take their shoes off and truly unwind. For those seeking ultimate luxury, the Midori suite boasts a private sauna, an open-air bath filled with natural hot spring water, and a private kitchen counter where a chef can be invited for exclusive meals.

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A Welcoming, Communal Spa Experience

For many international visitors, the traditional Japanese onsen (hot spring) experience—which typically requires bathing without clothes in strictly gender-segregated areas—can feel intimidating. HOTEL FORK & KNIFE elegantly solves this cultural barrier with its top-floor spa and indoor/outdoor onsen. Complete with a stunning open-air balcony, this facility operates as a communal space where guests can relax together. The hotel provides dedicated swimwear for every guest, making the experience incredibly comfortable and accessible for Western travelers. This thoughtful approach not only removes the anxiety of traditional bathing etiquette but also allows couples and mixed groups to enjoy the soothing hot spring waters and panoramic views side-by-side.

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Ground-Floor Museum and Gallery

Adding to the cultural depth of the property, the ground floor features a dedicated museum space designed to host rotating art displays and historical exhibitions. The hotel is currently planning to showcase a profound exhibition centered around the theme of "Hiroshima 1958." This unique gallery will feature a French photographic portrayal of Hiroshima, offering an international perspective on the city's resilience, redevelopment, and daily life during that pivotal post-war era. It provides guests with a quiet moment of reflection and a deeper connection to the city's history before they even step up to their rooms.

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The Perfect Couple’s Retreat

If you are planning a romantic getaway, HOTEL FORK & KNIFE is tailored for unforgettable moments together. To maintain a quiet and calm atmosphere, the hotel is exclusively for guests aged 12 and older (with rare exceptions made only for the private suite).

This adult-focused environment ensures that couples can disconnect from the noise of daily life. Spend your afternoon soaking in the natural hot spring overlooking Miyajima or detoxing in the silent sauna. In the evening, after a romantic 11-course dinner, you can retreat to the atmospheric bar lounge, where time flows gently alongside a traditional sunken hearth (irori).

Kyoto's Sagano Romantic Train has officially been named the most scenic train journey in the world in a new study by travel insurance company InsureandGo.

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The nostalgic sightseeing train, which runs through the forested ravines of Arashiyama and along the Hozugawa River, topped the ranking with an impressive "Eye-Catching Score" of 91.9 out of 100.

What makes the study especially interesting is how that score was determined. Rather than relying on travel reviews or expert opinion, researchers used eye-tracking technology to measure how visually captivating each route's scenery was. Participants were shown images of famous train views from around the world, with researchers tracking how quickly their eyes were drawn to each landscape and how long they remained focused on it. Those metrics were then combined into a weighted score to determine the final rankings.

According to the study, the Sagano Romantic Train beat out famous rail journeys across Europe and beyond, despite strong competition from some of the world's best-known scenic routes.

It's not hard to see why. Running between Saga Torokko Station and Kameoka Torokko Station in western Kyoto, the open-window heritage train is especially popular during cherry blossom and autumn foliage seasons, when the surrounding mountains explode into pink or fiery red.

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For more information about the Sagano Romantic Train or to make a booking, please visit the official website in English here.

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A serene place to stay

1 Hotel Tokyo brings a fresh take on luxury stays in the capital, combining high-rise city views with a focus on sustainability and nature-inspired design. Located on the 38th to 43rd floors of the venue, the hotel looks out across some of Tokyo's most recognizable landmarks, including the Imperial Palace Outer Garden and Tokyo Tower. Inside, the atmosphere is calm and grounded, with interiors shaped by Japanese craftsmanship, recycled materials, and handmade details.

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A mix of Japanese and international restaurants

The dining lineup brings together a broad mix of Japanese and international cuisine, with a focus on both established names and casual everyday dining.

Traditional Japanese options include yakitori specialist Kyobashi Isehiro, founded in 1921, and Unagi Yondaime Kikukawa, known for its carefully prepared eel dishes served in a live kitchen setting. For more casual Japanese dining, Tamasuke offers izakaya-style dishes alongside Hakata udon and regional favorites.

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International dining is also well represented, including Italian restaurant OSTERIA DELLA CARNE L'ENOCANTO, as well as long-running Chinese restaurants such as Minmin and Mainland Chinese Cuisine Kamonka. Casual pasta dining is available at MOM&POP'S SPAGHETTI.

Cafes and casual stops

For coffee breaks and lighter meals, the development includes a range of cafe-style venues designed for quick stops between plans. A couple of the options include bakery-cafe space Cafe PAVLOV and the popular chain Tully's Coffee.

The Tully's store in particular is a convenient stop for travelers, offering a bright, modern space with large windows, comfortable seating, and chargers from Anker at every seat.

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Everyday essentials and services

Beyond dining, the complex integrates everyday services that make it useful for longer leisure stays or business travelers.

Facilities include convenience store FamilyMart, pharmacy services at Kokumin Drug, and on-site medical clinics and health services, reinforcing its role as a practical stop in central Tokyo.

Positioned as a new hub in the Akasaka area, Tokyo World Gate Akasaka combines dining, services, and accommodation in a single walkable location. For travelers, it offers an easy way to access a wide range of food and everyday essentials in one stop, within one of Tokyo's most connected districts.

Available from June 20th to August 26th, the "Pokémon 30th Anniversary Collaboration Grand Adventure" turns a small number of guest rooms into themed spaces inspired by the series. It is an easy fit for travelers wanting something distinctly Japanese that goes beyond sightseeing.

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The headline option is a suite limited to one booking per day. Inside, the design draws on grass, fire, and water-type Pokémon, with each area of the room styled differently. Characters such as Pikachu, Bulbasaur, Charmander, and Squirtle appear throughout, alongside details that reference the early days of the franchise.

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The suite package includes in-room dining, with a Pikachu-themed burger set for dinner and pancakes stamped with Pikachu for breakfast. Guests also receive a range of original anniversary goods, including a passport case, clothing items, plush toys, and a small talking Pikachu figure.

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There is also a standard plan, limited to eight rooms per day, which features Pokémon artwork and decorations along with a breakfast buffet that includes the same character-themed pancakes.

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With only nine rooms available each day, demand is expected to be high. For inbound travelers, it is a chance to experience one of Japan's most recognizable cultural exports in a setting that is both central and easy to access during a Tokyo stay. For more information, please visit the official website here.

That's exactly the mood tapped by Australian newspaper The Age, which recently named Shikoku among the 12 calmest destinations in the world.

Japan as a whole has long had a reputation for safety and order, but as The Age writers noted, Shikoku offers an even slower, softer version of that experience. As the smallest of Japan's four main islands, it's a place where lush mountains, winding rivers, and compact cities create a rhythm that feels far removed from the rush of places like Tokyo or Osaka.

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The Age writers also pointed out that getting around doesn't have to be stressful. Cycling routes are a major draw, from the scenic Shimanami Kaido to peaceful roads tracing the Shimanto River. You can move between prefectures like Kagawa, Ehime, Tokushima and Kochi at your own pace, without the sense of urgency that often comes with bigger destinations. Even the cities, including Matsuyama and Takamatsu, lean toward the tranquil side, offering temples, castles, and everyday life without the crush of crowds.

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There are standout experiences too. In Matsuyama, Dogo Onsen, one of Japan's oldest hot springs, has recently reopened after renovations. As The Age mentioned, it may feel especially familiar to fans of Spirited Away.

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Positioned somewhere between camping and glamping, Earthboat offers a more balanced outdoor stay. It removes much of the effort and know-how that traditional camping demands, while avoiding the overly polished feel that can come with glamping. The result is something more grounded—an experience that feels close to nature, yet comfortably equipped for a relaxed stay.

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At Saitama Kawajima, guests stay in one of Earthboat’s “Nomad” units. Each setup combines a main cabin—with a double bed, semi-outdoor kitchen, bathroom, and Finnish sauna—with a separate multipurpose unit that serves as a second bedroom with two futons.

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Outside, a wooden deck ties everything together, complete with seating, a shade sail, open-air wooden bath, firepit, and gas barbecue. It’s a compact but thoughtfully designed space that encourages you to slow down and spend most of your time outdoors.

Earthboat Highlights

Outdoor living

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The deck area becomes the center of the experience—part living room, part dining space, part place to unwind. Stretch out on a reclining chair and gaze out over the lake, split some firewood before lighting the firepit as the sun sets, or sit down for a barbecue dinner as the surroundings gradually fade into night. Later, soak in the open-air bath under the stars, with only the soft glow of the sauna nearby.

Sauna

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Each unit comes with a private sauna fitted with a Finnish system from Harvia. Enjoy löyly at your own pace, adjusting the heat to suit your preference. Whether you follow it with a cold plunge or simply sit back and relax, the sauna adds a quiet rhythm to the stay.

Open Air Dining

Barbecue is central to the Earthboat experience. Guests can bring their own ingredients or pre-order meal sets featuring local Saitama produce. The dinner set includes items such as beef, pork, and Omiya sausage and bacon (from ¥3,500 per person, minimum two people).

Breakfast sets are also available, with farm-fresh eggs, carrot juice, sausages, and assorted bread. The kitchen is well stocked with utensils, cookware, basic seasonings, and even fresh coffee beans and a grinder, making it easy to prepare meals outdoors.

Booking, check-in, and access

Reservations can be made via Earthboat’s official English website, with additional platforms like Booking.com expected in the future. Facilities are pet-friendly and some room options include more outdoor space for dogs. Prices start from around ¥30,000~ during offpeak periods, with an incremental surcharge for additional guests.

Check-in is self-service: after booking, guests receive instructions to access their unit, allowing for a flexible and private arrival. While the site operates largely unattended, a small on-site shop is available if needed.

Saitama sightseeing

Saitama Kawajima is a 30-min drive from nearby Kawagoe—sometimes known as Little Edo. Sightseeing attractions like Omiya's Railway Museum and Bonsai Village are also a similar distance in the direction of Tokyo.

About Earthboat

Earthboat is based in Nagano Prefecture, where several of its locations—including areas around Hakuba—are concentrated. Additional sites in places like Nasu and Minakami, along with the new Kawajima location, make the brand an appealing option for those in the Kanto region seeking an easy nature escape within a few hours of the city.

However, at Mister donut, a large donut chain with stores all over Japan, we can have freshly brewed black coffee as much as we want at about 300 yen and the same service will be applied to hot cafe au lait if we pay 30 yen extra. Donuts are reasonably priced at this shop - many of them are purchasable at less than 200 yen, so having one of the drinks and a couple of fried sweet goodies and doing what we can enjoy in the place will be a guilt-free valuable experience for us. Some people stay there for hours, so we don't have to worry if they will kick us out after we drink a lot. If we want to have coffee and pastries in the morning, this is where we should be because we can make a drink and a donut, pie or muffin set choice until 11:00. We can have a drink and a few sweet treats at a really cheap price that way. A drink and noodle or fried rice set is available after that. Each Chinese meal set is tasty too, so how about having one of the sets for lunch or dinner and some pastry for dessert?

The atmosphere is relaxing with comfortable softly-seated chairs and mellow western songs playing. Have fun dining in and also take out baked or fried products for home snacking. Good to have them and a donut talk with our family or friends.

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Best known around the world for Hello Kitty, Sanrio has long been part of Japan's pop culture landscape, but this museum goes beyond the familiar characters and souvenir shelves. Instead, it offers a look at the company's origins and the life of its founder, Shintaro Tsuji, who was born in Yamanashi and founded Sanrio's predecessor in 1960.

The museum is split into two buildings: the Sanrio History Museum, which explores the company's early years, characters, merchandise, and even the long-running Strawberry Newspaper, and the Shintaro Tsuji Memorial Museum, which focuses on Tsuji's personal history and philosophy.

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Visitors can see a recreation of his office, browse nostalgic displays, and explore themed spaces including the Strawberry King's Welcome Stage, Sanrio Memories, and the Everyone Get Along Salon. The warm, log cabin-style interior gives the whole place a cozy, almost hidden-gem feel rather than a flashy tourist-attraction vibe.

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For travelers, there's another major bonus of museum-exclusive merchandise. A limited ticket option also includes original goods such as a tote bag and postcard, making it an especially tempting stop for collectors.

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The museum is open from 10am until 5pm (last entry at 4pm) and is generally closed on Tuesdays. Advance reservations are required, so it's best planned as part of a wider Yamanashi trip.

In a city known for its fast pace, finding a calm place to begin the day feels rare. That’s when I discovered NIGICHA, a small café in Shinjuku dedicated to matcha and onigiri.

The matcha here is made from high-quality Yame tea, carefully prepared for each order. It has a deep umami flavor, smooth texture, and no harsh bitterness.

The onigiri are crafted using premium Japanese rice and are designed to be delicious even after cooling — just like traditional Japanese meals.

One unique experience is wrapping your own nori. The crisp sound and texture of freshly wrapped seaweed adds a small but memorable moment to the meal.

A warm bowl of miso soup completes the experience, creating a balance between hot and cold, simple and satisfying.

It’s not a special meal, but something that gently resets your rhythm.

If you are looking for a quiet Japanese breakfast in Tokyo, this might be the place.

In Japan, breakfast is often simple, balanced, and deeply connected to daily life. Rather than something heavy or rushed, it is designed to gently prepare the body and mind for the day ahead.

NIGICHA reflects this philosophy by focusing on quality ingredients, careful preparation, and a calm atmosphere. Each element — from the matcha to the rice and nori — is thoughtfully selected to create a quiet and meaningful experience.

Located near Shinjuku Gyoen, the café offers a moment of stillness in the middle of Tokyo. Whether you are visiting Japan or living in the city, it is a place where you can slow down and reconnect with a more traditional rhythm.

Linking the Kanto, Chubu, and Kansai regions, the Tokaido Shinkansen plays a vital role in both domestic travel and international tourism, carrying hundreds of thousands of passengers daily between Tokyo, Nagoya, Kyoto, and Osaka.

Join us as we hop aboard the Tokaido Shinkansen Line, sharing everything you need to know before riding Japan’s iconic bullet train.

What is the Tokaido Shinkansen?

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The Tokaido Shinkansen officially opened on October 1, 1964, just in time for the Tokyo Olympics. It was the world’s first high-speed rail line and revolutionized train travel globally.

Stretching approximately 515 kilometers (320 miles), the line is operated by JR Central (JR Tokai) and forms the backbone of Japan’s high-speed rail network. Through services continue west onto the Sanyo Shinkansen toward Hiroshima and Fukuoka. Today, the Tokaido Shinkansen operates at speeds of up to 285 km/h (177 mph) using modern N700 series trainsets. It remains one of the most punctual and heavily used high-speed rail lines in the world.

The line offers three main service types—Nozomi, Hikari, and Kodama—providing flexibility for business travelers, tourists, and JR

Get your JR Pass on Klook

Where does the Tokaido Shinkansen stop?

The Tokaido Shinkansen connects Tokyo in eastern Japan with Shin-Osaka in western Japan, serving major cities along the Pacific corridor.

Tokaido Shinkansen Stops: Stations along the Route

The line begins at Tokyo Station and ends at Shin-Osaka Station, stopping at key urban and transportation hubs along the way.

Below is a simplified overview of stations and key transfer options.

Major highlights along the route include Mount Fuji views between Shin-Fuji and Mishima (on clear days), historic Kyoto temples, and Osaka’s food scene.

Get your JR Pass on Klook

Trains on the Tokaido Shinkansen Line

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There are three main train types operating on the Tokaido Shinkansen Line.

Nozomi

The Nozomi is the fastest and most frequent service on the Tokaido Shinkansen.

• Stops at: Tokyo, Shinagawa, Shin-Yokohama, Nagoya, Kyoto, Shin-Osaka (select trains may stop at additional stations)
• Departures: Up to every 10 minutes during peak times
• Travel time: About 2 hours, 30 minutes (Tokyo → Shin-Osaka)
• Average ticket price: ¥14,000–¥15,500 (reserved)
• JR Pass: Not covered by the nationwide JR Pass (supplement required)
• Unreserved cars: Typically Cars 1–3

Nozomi trains are ideal for business travelers prioritizing speed.

Hikari

The Hikari offers a balance between speed and station coverage.

• Stops at: Major stations plus additional regional stops
• Departures: About two per hour
• Travel time: Around three hours (Tokyo → Shin-Osaka)
• Average ticket price: Approx. ¥14,000–¥15,500 (reserved)
• JR Pass: Fully covered
• Unreserved cars: Typically Cars 1–5

Hikari is the fastest option for JR Pass holders.

Kodama

The Kodama stops at every station on the Tokaido Shinkansen Line.

• Stops at: All stations
• Departures: About one to two per hour
• Travel time: Approximately four hours (Tokyo → Shin-Osaka)
• Average ticket price: Slightly lower for unreserved seats
• JR Pass: Fully covered
• Unreserved cars: Usually Cars 1–7

Kodama is ideal for exploring regional cities like Shizuoka or Hamamatsu.

Find out more: Mount Fuji Viewing Spots Around Shizuoka City

Tokaido Shinkansen: Ticket Prices

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Ticket prices on the Tokaido Shinkansen depend on distance, seat type, and train category.

For the full route from Tokyo to Shin-Osaka, fares typically range from:

• ¥13,870–¥14,500 for unreserved seats
• ¥14,500–¥15,500 for reserved seats
• ¥19,000–¥20,500 for Green Car seats

Unreserved seats are the most economical option and do not require advance booking. Green Car tickets provide wider seating, extra legroom, and a quieter cabin.

Prices vary slightly by season (peak, regular, and off-peak periods).

For the most accurate and up-to-date fares, travelers should check SmartEX booking platforms or tap the Klook button below for limitless exploration with a JR Pass.

Get your JR Pass on Klook

Which passes cover the Tokaido Shinkansen?

Here is a table of the available rail passes in Japan, and their coverage on the Tokaido Shinkansen Line.

Source: Japan Rail Pass

Get your JR Pass on Klook

Popular destinations on the Tokaido Shinkansen bullet train

Does the Tokaido Shinkansen go to Tokyo?

Yes. Tokyo Station is the eastern terminus of the Tokaido Shinkansen.

Does the Tokaido Shinkansen go to Osaka?

Yes. The Tokaido Line terminates at Shin-Osaka Station.

Does the Tokaido Shinkansen go to Kyoto?

Yes. Kyoto is one of the major stops along the route, approximately two hours, 15 minutes from Tokyo by Nozomi.

How to use the Tokaido Shinkansen?

Boarding with QR tickets

QR tickets booked via SmartEX allow passengers to pass through Shinkansen gates by scanning a code on their smartphone. The easiest way to do this is to download the SmartEX app, then:

1. Go to ‘My Trips’
2. Tap ‘Details’
3. Head to the ‘Display QR-Ticket’ page
4. Tap ‘Display QR-Ticket’
5. Scan your QR as you pass through the ticket gate

Note: After displaying your QR ticket, you can also add it to your Apple Wallet, print, send via email, or copy the URL.

Boarding with IC Card

Some SmartEX tickets can be linked to IC cards like Suica and ICOCA, enabling paperless tickets and tap-and-go entry.

• Get your IC ID Number: Open Apple Wallet/Google Pay, tap your IC Card, select info (i), and locate the 17-digit IC card number (starts with JE). If you have a physical IC card, you can find this number on the back of the card.
  
• Register on your booking app:
  • SmartEX (Tokaido/Sanyo/Kyushu): Download the app, register, and add your IC ID number under "My IC Card List."
    
  • JR-EAST Train Reservation (Eki-Net): Sign up on the site and enter your IC ID when purchasing or in your profile.
    
• Link ticket to IC card: During booking, select "Use IC Card" as your ticket type.
  
• Boarding: Tap your phone at the Shinkansen automatic ticket gate. A seat information stub may print, but it is not required for boarding.

For more guidance, follow this Shinkansen E-Ticket Guide by JR East.

Boarding with paper tickets

Paper tickets can be purchased at ticket machines or counters and inserted at the Shinkansen gates.

Already purchased tickets? Here’s how to pick them up. You will need the pickup code (a QR code or 16 digits) and the login password (4-8 alphanumeric characters) to pick up your tickets at ticket vending machines in main JR Central, JR West, or JR Kyushu stations.

Follow the SmartEX Beginner Guide or Boarding Guide for more details.

Explore Japan on the Tokaido Shinkansen Line

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The Tokaido Shinkansen is the fastest and easiest way to travel between Tokyo, Nagoya, Kyoto, and Osaka. Whether you’re visiting Mount Fuji, exploring Kyoto’s temples, or heading to Osaka for street food, the line offers unmatched speed, comfort, and reliability.

To make memories as soon as you step off the train, check out our top Things to Do Near Tokyo Station, head to Nagoya Castle, and explore the colors of Kyoto.

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Tokaido Shinkansen FAQs

Is the Tokaido Shinkansen covered by the JR Pass?

Yes, but only Hikari and Kodama services are fully covered. Nozomi trains require an additional supplement.

Do I need to reserve seats on the Tokaido Shinkansen?

Reservations are optional for unreserved cars but highly recommended during cherry blossom season, Golden Week, Obon, and New Year in Japan.

How much is a Shinkansen ticket from Tokyo to Kyoto?

Expect to pay around ¥13,000–¥15,000 depending on seat type and season.

How long is the Shinkansen from Tokyo to Osaka?

The Nozomi takes about two hours, 30 minutes from Tokyo Station to Shin-Osaka Station. The Hikari takes around three hours.

Can I see Mount Fuji from the Tokaido Shinkansen?

Yes. Sit on the right-hand side when traveling from Tokyo to Osaka for the best chance of viewing Mount Fuji between Shin-Fuji and Mishima stations (weather permitting). If traveling from Osaka to Tokyo, sit on the left-hand side instead.

Is luggage allowed on the Tokaido Shinkansen?

Yes. Standard luggage is allowed. Bags with total dimensions over 160 cm require a reserved seat with oversized baggage space.

What is the difference between Nozomi and Hikari?

Nozomi is faster and stops at fewer stations, but is not fully covered by the JR Pass. Hikari is slightly slower, but is fully covered by the JR Pass.

Join us as we hop onto the Sanyo Shinkansen Line, sharing all the details you need to know as we ride the rails.

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What is the Sanyo Shinkansen?

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The Sanyo Shinkansen officially opened in two stages:

• Shin-Osaka to Okayama in 1972
• Okayama to Hakata in 1975

This marked the completion of the full Sanyo Shinkansen route, finished just in time for the Osaka Expo era of rapid infrastructure expansion (Taniguchi, 2025).

At approximately 553 kilometers (344 miles) in length, the Sanyo Shinkansen is operated primarily by JR West, with through services continuing onto the Tokaido Shinkansen (toward Tokyo) and the Kyushu Shinkansen (toward Kagoshima-Chuo).

One of the most interesting aspects of the Sanyo Shinkansen is its variety of services. From ultra-fast business-oriented trains like Nozomi and Mizuho to all-stop Kodama services ideal for sightseeing, the line offers flexibility for every type of traveler.

It is also home to some of the fastest scheduled train speeds in Japan, with the N700 series reaching up to 300 km/h (186 mph) on certain sections (Wikipedia: N700 Series Shinkansen).

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Where does the Sanyo Shinkansen stop?

The Sanyo Shinkansen connects Shin-Osaka in Kansai with Hakata in Kyushu, stopping at major cities across western Japan.

Sanyo Shinkansen Stops: Stations along the Route

The line begins at Shin-Osaka Station, a major transfer hub for the Tokaido Shinkansen and JR conventional lines, and ends at Hakata Station, Kyushu’s largest rail terminal. Along the way, it serves important urban, cultural, and industrial centers in Hyogo, Okayama, Hiroshima, and Yamaguchi Prefectures.

Below is a simplified overview of stations and key transfer options.

Get your JR Pass on Klook

Trains on the Sanyo Shinkansen Line

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There are a number of different train types available on the Sanyo Shinkansen Line.

Nozomi

The Nozomi is the fastest and most frequent service on the Sanyo Shinkansen, stopping only at major stations.

• Stops at: Shin-Osaka, Shin-Kobe, Okayama, Hiroshima, Kokura, Hakata
• Departures: Up to four per hour during peak times
• Travel time: About two hours, 30 minutes (Shin-Osaka → Hakata)
• Average ticket price: ¥15,000–¥16,500 (reserved)
• Intersects with: Tokaido Shinkansen (Tokyo)
• JR Pass: Not covered by the nationwide JR Pass
• Regional passes: Covered by some JR West regional passes
• Unreserved cars: Usually Cars 1–2 (may vary seasonally)

Nozomi trains prioritize speed and business travel and are often crowded during weekday rush hours.

Hikari

The Hikari offers a balance between speed and coverage, stopping at more stations than Nozomi.

• Stops at: Major stations including Himeji and Fukuyama
• Departures: About one to two per hour
• Travel time: Around three hours (Shin-Osaka → Hakata)
• Average ticket price: ¥14,700–¥16,000
• JR Pass: Fully covered
• Unreserved cars: Typically Cars 1–5

Hikari trains are popular with Japan Rail Pass holders looking for a faster alternative to Kodama without extra fees.

Kodama

The Kodama stops at every station on the Sanyo Shinkansen Line.

• Stops at: All stations
• Departures: About one to two per hour
• Travel time: Approximately four to five hours end-to-end
• Average ticket price: ¥14,700 (unreserved)
• JR Pass: Fully covered
• Unreserved cars: Usually Cars 1–7

Kodama services are ideal for travelers planning to explore smaller cities like Onomichi or Iwakuni.

Find out more: Explore Iwakuni with this Yamaguchi Itinerary

Sakura

The Sakura is a mid-speed service jointly operated by JR West and JR Kyushu.

• Stops at: Major and mid-sized stations
• Departures: About two per hour
• Travel time: Around two hours, 45 minutes
• JR Pass: Covered
• Unreserved cars: Typically Cars 1–3

Sakura trains offer comfortable seating and are a favorite among tourists traveling between Osaka and Kyushu.

Mizuho

The Mizuho is the fastest service connecting Kansai and Kyushu.

• Stops at: Major stations only
• Departures: About six round trips per day
• Travel time: About two hours, 20 minutes
• JR Pass: Not covered by nationwide JR Pass
• Unreserved cars: Limited or none, depending on schedule

Source: JR West Timetables

Sanyo Shinkansen: Ticket Prices

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Ticket prices on the Sanyo Shinkansen depend on distance, seat type, and train category.

For the full route from Shin-Osaka to Hakata, fares typically range from:

• ¥14,700–¥15,500 for unreserved seats
• ¥15,500–¥16,500 for reserved seats
• ¥21,000–¥22,500 for Green Car seats

Unreserved seats are the most economical choice and do not require advance booking, while Green Car tickets provide wider seating, more legroom, and a quieter environment.

Prices may vary slightly depending on the train (Nozomi, Sakura, Hikari, etc.) and seasonal demand.

For the most accurate and up-to-date fares, travelers should check the official JR West website, SmartEX booking platforms, or tap the Klook button below for limitless exploration with a JR Rail Pass.

Get your JR Pass on Klook

Which passes cover the Sanyo Shinkansen?

Here is a table of the available rail passes in Japan, and their coverage on the Sanyo Shinkansen Line.

Get your JR Pass on Klook

Popular destinations on the Japanese bullet train

Does the Sanyo Shinkansen go to Tokyo?

Yes, via a through service on the Sanyo-Tokaido Shinkansen Line, allowing passengers to travel from Hakata to Tokyo without changing trains.

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Does the Sanyo Shinkansen go to Osaka?

Yes. The easternmost stop on the Sanyo Shinkansen is Shin-Osaka Station, a major Shinkansen hub.

Does the Sanyo Shinkansen go to Kyoto?

Indirectly. Travelers can transfer at Shin-Osaka to reach Kyoto in about 15 minutes by local trains. Or, if on a Sanyo-Tokaido Shinkasen through-service, the bullet train will continue west to Kyoto Station.

How to use the Sanyo Shinkansen?

Boarding with QR tickets

QR tickets booked via SmartEX allow passengers to pass through Shinkansen gates by scanning a code on their smartphone. The easiest way to do this is to download the SmartEX app, then:

1. Go to ‘My Trips’
2. Tap ‘Details’
3. Head to the ‘Display QR-Ticket’ page
4. Tap ‘Display QR-Ticket’
5. Scan your QR as you pass through the ticket gate

Note: After displaying your QR ticket, you can also add it to your Apple Wallet, print, send via email, or copy the URL.

Boarding with IC Card

Some SmartEX tickets can be linked to IC cards like Suica and ICOCA, enabling paperless tickets and tap-and-go entry.

Steps to linking Shinkansen tickets to your IC card

• Get your IC ID Number: Open Apple Wallet/Google Pay, tap your IC Card, select info (i), and locate the 17-digit IC card number (starts with JE). If you have a physical IC card, you can find this number on the back of the card.
  
• Register on your booking app:
  • SmartEX (Tokaido/Sanyo/Kyushu): Download the app, register, and add your IC ID number under "My IC Card List."
    
  • JR-EAST Train Reservation (Eki-Net): Sign up on the site and enter your IC ID when purchasing or in your profile.
    
• Link ticket to IC card: During booking, select "Use IC Card" as your ticket type.
  
• Boarding: Tap your phone at the Shinkansen automatic ticket gate. A seat information stub may print, but it is not required for boarding.

For more guidance, follow this Shinkansen E-Ticket Guide by JR East.

Boarding with paper tickets

Paper tickets can be purchased at ticket machines or counters and inserted at the Shinkansen gates.

Already purchased tickets? Here’s how to pick them up. You will need the pickup code (a QR code or 16 digits) and the login password (4-8 alphanumeric characters) to pick up your tickets at ticket vending machines in main JR Central, JR West, or JR Kyushu stations.

Follow the SmartEX Beginner Guide or Boarding Guide for more details.

Explore West Japan on the Sanyo Shinkansen Line

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The Sanyo Shinkansen Line is one of the best ways to explore western Japan, offering speed, comfort, and exceptional reliability.

Whether you are hopping between Osaka and Hiroshima or continuing on to Kyushu, this line makes long-distance travel effortless.

For inspiration along the route, read a few of our articles about traveling through West Japan:

• Explore Osaka
• Hiroshima: Top Ten Things to Do
• Fukuoka Day Trip

Sanyo Shinkansen FAQs

Is the Sanyo Shinkansen covered by JR Rail Pass?

Yes, except for Nozomi and Mizuho services. The Sakura, Hikari, and Kodama services are fully covered.

Does Sanyo Shinkansen need reservations?

Reservations are optional, as unreserved seats may be available, but recommended during busy seasons.

How early should I arrive at the Shinkansen?

Arriving 10–15 minutes early is usually sufficient, but if it’s your first time traversing a certain station, it’s recommended to arrive earlier.

Can you bring luggage on Shinkansen?

Yes, with size restrictions for oversized baggage. Passengers are generally allowed two pieces of baggage (up to 30 kg each) with total dimensions of up to 250 cm.

For bags exceeding 160 cm, you must book a seat with an "oversized baggage area" or "compartment," particularly on the Tokaido, Sanyo, and Kyushu lines.

Is the Shinkansen the fastest train in the world?

It is among the fastest, but not the fastest in the world. The top speed for Shinkansen bullet trains is around 320 km/h (200 mph), compared to the Shanghai Maglev, reaching 431 km/h (268 mp/h), currently the fastest commercial high-speed transportation.

Can I eat and drink on the Shinkansen?

Yes, eating and drinking are allowed on the Shinkansen. In fact, enjoying snacks and drinks while Japan glides by is perhaps one of life’s greatest pleasures.

What does Shinkansen mean in Japan?

Shinkansen (新幹線) literally means “new trunk line.” It is comprised of three characters: 新 (shin, new), 幹 (kan, trunk or main), and 線 (sen, line).

Since its debut in 1964, timed to coincide with the Tokyo Olympics, the Shinkansen has transformed domestic travel across Japan. Today, it connects major cities, regional hubs, and even snowy northern islands, making it possible to cross vast distances in a matter of hours while enjoying comfort, reliability, and impressive views along the way.

This guide is designed to give you a complete, practical understanding of the Japanese bullet train–from routes and train types to ticket prices, rail passes, and how to board with confidence, whether it’s your first ride or your fifteenth.

What is the Japanese bullet train?

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The Japanese bullet train, officially known as the Shinkansen, is a network of high-speed rail lines operated primarily by the Japan Railways (JR) Group. Built on dedicated tracks separate from conventional railways, Shinkansen trains are designed to travel at extremely high speeds while maintaining exceptional safety standards.

Most Shinkansen trains operate at speeds of up to 320 km/h (about 200 mph), yet the ride feels remarkably smooth and quiet. Delays are rare, measured in seconds rather than minutes, and onboard cleanliness and comfort are famously consistent.

The Shinkansen serves both business travelers and tourists, offering reserved and non-reserved seating, spacious luggage areas, onboard restrooms, and, on many routes, food carts or easy access to bento boxes before boarding.

Get your JR Pass on Klook

Shinkansen bullet train routes: Where does it go?

Japan’s Shinkansen network spans the length of the country, from Kyushu in the south to Hokkaido in the north. Each line serves a distinct region, with some operating as through-services that connect seamlessly with others.

Tokaido Shinkansen

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The Tokaido Shinkansen is Japan’s busiest and most famous high-speed rail line. It links Tokyo with Osaka and forms the backbone of the entire Shinkansen network. This route is especially popular with international visitors, as it connects major cities, such as Yokohama, Nagoya, Kyoto, and Osaka.

Route: Tokyo – Shin-Osaka

Stops: Tokyo, Shinagawa, Shin-Yokohama, Odawara, Atami, Mishima, Shin-Fuji, Shizuoka, Kakegawa, Hamamatsu, Toyohashi, Mikawa-Anjo, Nagoya, Gifu-Hashima, Maibara, Kyoto, Shin-Osaka (Stops vary by train type.)

Sanyo Shinkansen

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Extending west from Osaka, the Sanyo Shinkansen connects the Kansai region with western Honshu and northern Kyushu. This line is ideal for travelers heading to Hiroshima, Okayama, or Fukuoka (Hakata).

Route: Shin-Osaka – Hakata

Stops: Shin-Osaka, Shin-Kobe, Nishi-Akashi, Himeji, Aioi, Okayama, Shin-Kurashiki, Fukuyama, Shin-Onomichi, Mihara, Higashi-Hiroshima, Hiroshima, Shin-Iwakuni, Tokuyama, Shin-Yamaguchi, Asa, Shin-Shimonoseki, Kokura, Hakata (Stops vary by service.)

Kyushu Shinkansen

The Kyushu Shinkansen serves Japan’s southernmost main island, offering fast access to volcanic landscapes, hot spring towns, and vibrant cities like Kumamoto and Kagoshima.

Route: Hakata – Kagoshima-Chuo

Stops: Hakata, Shin-Tosu, Kurume, Chikugo-Funagoya, Shin-Omuta, Shin-Tamana, Kumamoto, Shin-Yatsushiro, Shin-Minamata, Izumi, Sendai, Kagoshima-Chuo

Akita Shinkansen

The Akita Shinkansen is a “mini-shinkansen,” meaning it runs on both high-speed and conventional tracks. It provides a scenic link between Tokyo and the rural landscapes of Akita Prefecture.

Route: Tokyo – Akita

Stops: Tokyo, Ueno, Omiya, Morioka, Shizukuishi, Tazawako, Kakunodate, Omagari, Akita

Hokuriku Shinkansen

Running through the Japanese Alps, the Hokuriku Shinkansen connects Tokyo with the Sea of Japan coast. It is popular for trips to Nagano, Kanazawa, and Toyama.

Route: Tokyo – Tsuruga

Stops: Tokyo, Ueno, Omiya, Takasaki, Karuizawa, Sakudaira, Ueda, Nagano, Iiyama, Joetsu-Myoko, Itoigawa, Kurobe-Unazukionsen, Toyama, Shin-Takaoka, Kanazawa, Komatsu, Kagaonsen, Awaraonsen, Fukui, Echizen-Takefu, Tsuruga

Joetsu Shinkansen

The Joetsu Shinkansen links Tokyo with Niigata, a region known for rice, sake, and snowy winters. It is especially popular during ski season.

Route: Tokyo – Niigata

Stops: Tokyo, Ueno, Omiya, Kumagaya, Honjo-Waseda, Takasaki, Jomo-Kogen, Echigo-Yuzawa, Urasa, Nagaoka, Tsubamesanjo, Niigata

Tohoku Shinkansen

The Tohoku Shinkansen travels deep into northeastern Japan, offering access to historic cities, hot springs, and dramatic seasonal scenery of places like Aomori, Morioka, and Fukushima.

Route: Tokyo – Shin-Aomori

Stops: Tokyo, Ueno, Omiya, Utsunomiya, Koriyama, Fukushima, Shiroishi-Zao, Sendai, Furukawa, Kurikoma-Kogen, Ichinoseki, Mizusawa-Esashi, Kitakami, Shin-Hanamaki, Morioka, Iwate-Numakunai, Ninohe, Hachinohe, Shichinohe-Towada, Shin-Aomori

Yamagata Shinkansen

Another mini-shinkansen route, the Yamagata Shinkansen provides a comfortable connection between Tokyo and Yamagata’s mountainous interior.

Route: Tokyo – Shinjo

Stops: Tokyo, Ueno, Omiya, Utsunomiya, Koriyama, Fukushima, Yonezawa, Takahata, Akayu, Kaminoyama-Onsen, Yamagata, Tendo, Sakuranbo-Higashine, Murayama, Oishida, Shinjo

Hokkaido Shinkansen

The newest addition to the network, the Hokkaido Shinkansen connects Honshu with Japan’s northern island via the Seikan Tunnel beneath the sea.

Route: Tokyo – Shin-Hakodate-Hokuto

Stops: Tokyo, Ueno, Omiya, Sendai, Morioka, Shin-Aomori, Okutsugaru-Imabetsu, Kikonai, Shin-Hakodate-Hokuto

Types of Japanese bullet train

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Nozomi

The fastest service on the Tokaido and Sanyo Shinkansen, stopping at major stations only. Not covered by the standard JR Pass.

Mizuho

A high-speed service on the Sanyo and Kyushu Shinkansen, similar to Nozomi in speed and station coverage. Also excluded from the standard JR Pass.

Hikari

A slightly slower alternative to Nozomi on the Tokaido and Sanyo lines, stopping at more stations and fully covered by the JR Pass.

Sakura

A fast and comfortable service operating mainly on the Sanyo and Kyushu Shinkansen, offering a balance between speed and coverage.

Kodama

The slowest Shinkansen service, stopping at every station along the route. Ideal for flexible travel and short hops between nearby destinations.

Shinkansen Prices

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Shinkansen ticket prices across Japan vary based on distance, seat class, train category, and season. On most major routes, typical one-way fares fall within these ranges:

• ¥5,000–¥10,000 for shorter intercity trips
• ¥13,000–¥20,000 for medium to long-distance routes
• ¥20,000+ for the longest journeys (e.g., Tokyo to Kyushu)

By seat type, you can generally expect:

• Unreserved seats: most economical; flexible boarding without advance booking
• Reserved seats: slightly higher cost with guaranteed seating
• Green Car: premium carriage with wider seats, extra legroom, and a quieter atmosphere

Prices also vary by train type (Nozomi, Hikari, Sakura, etc.) and peak travel periods.

For the most accurate and up-to-date fares, travelers should check the official JR West website, SmartEX booking platforms, or tap the Klook button below for limitless exploration with a JR Pass.

Get your JR Pass on Klook

Shinkansen JR Pass: Which passes cover the bullet train?

Here is a table of the available rail passes in Japan, and their coverage on the Shinkansen Line.

Source: Japan Rail Pass

Key tip: Most passes do not cover the fastest Nozomi and Mizuho trains without an additional supplement, so always check before booking.

Get your JR Pass on Klook

Booking Shinkansen tickets

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To ride the Shinkansen, passengers typically need two components: a base fare ticket and a limited express ticket. The final price depends on several factors:

• Seat reservation: Most Shinkansen services offer both reserved and non-reserved seating. Reserved seats cost more but guarantee a specific seat, which is highly recommended during peak travel periods.
  
• Green Car seating: Upgrading to the Green Car increases the fare, but provides a more spacious and premium travel experience.
  
• Type of Shinkansen: Faster services, such as Nozomi on the Tokaido Line, usually cost more than slower options like Hikari or Kodama.

Buying Shinkansen tickets at a station

Tickets can be purchased at JR ticket counters or vending machines at major stations. While machines support English, first-time travelers may find it easier to speak with station staff.

At busy stations, staff members often assist passengers at the gates to ensure tickets are inserted correctly.

Buying Shinkansen tickets online

Online booking services and IC-compatible options are available, but many platforms operate primarily in Japanese. For simplicity, many visitors choose to book in person, through a travel agency, or via international booking platforms.

How to use the Japanese bullet train?

Riding the Shinkansen is straightforward once you understand the boarding process. Whether using digital tickets, IC cards, or paper tickets, the steps are clearly signposted in English at major stations.

Boarding with QR tickets

QR tickets booked through SmartEX allow passengers to enter Shinkansen gates by scanning a code on their smartphone. After installing the SmartEX app:

• Open My Trips
• Select Details
• Navigate to Display QR-Ticket
• Scan the code at the Shinkansen gate

You can also save the QR code to Apple Wallet, print it, or share it via email.

Boarding with IC Card

Some SmartEX tickets can be linked to IC cards like Suica and ICOCA, enabling paperless tickets and tap-and-go entry.

Steps to linking Shinkansen tickets to your IC card

• Get your IC ID Number: Open Apple Wallet/Google Pay, tap your IC Card, select info (i), and locate the 17-digit IC card number (starts with JE). If you have a physical IC card, you can find this number on the back of the card.
  
• Register on your booking app:
  • SmartEX (Tokaido/Sanyo/Kyushu): Download the app, register, and add your IC ID number under "My IC Card List."
    
  • JR-EAST Train Reservation (Eki-Net): Sign up on the site and enter your IC ID when purchasing or in your profile.
    
• Link ticket to IC card: During booking, select "Use IC Card" as your ticket type.
  
• Boarding: Tap your phone at the Shinkansen automatic ticket gate. A seat information stub may print, but it is not required for boarding.

For more guidance, follow this Shinkansen E-Ticket Guide by JR East.

Boarding with paper tickets

Paper tickets can be bought at ticket counters or machines and inserted into the Shinkansen gates. Travelers collecting pre-booked tickets can retrieve them from vending machines at major JR stations.

You will need your pickup code (a QR code or 16 digits) and login password (4-8 alphanumeric characters).

Follow the SmartEX Beginner Guide or Boarding Guide for more details.

Riding the bullet train across Japan

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The Shinkansen is more than just transportation–it is an experience that showcases Japan’s dedication to efficiency, comfort, and innovation. Whether you are traveling between major cities or exploring regional destinations, the bullet train makes getting around Japan seamless and enjoyable.

Shinkansen bullet train FAQs

Are Nozomi and Mizuho Shinkansen covered by the JR Pass?

No. These fastest services are excluded from the standard JR Pass, though other high-speed alternatives are available.

Can I make seat reservations on Shinkansen bullet trains?

Yes. Seat reservations can be made in advance or at stations, and are recommended during busy travel periods.

Can you use Suica for Shinkansen?

Yes. Certain tickets can be linked to Suica or other IC cards, allowing tap-and-go access.

I left something on the Shinkansen. What should I do?

Contact station staff immediately or visit a JR Lost and Found counter. Items are often recovered thanks to the system’s efficiency.

How early should I arrive at the Shinkansen?

Arriving 10–15 minutes early is usually sufficient, though first-time visitors may want extra time to navigate large stations.

Can you bring luggage on Shinkansen?

Yes, within size limits. Oversized baggage requires a reserved seat with a designated storage area on certain lines.

Is the Shinkansen the fastest in the world?

It ranks among the fastest but is not the fastest overall. Its top speed is about 320 km/h, while the Shanghai Maglev currently holds the speed record.

Can I eat and drink on the Shinkansen?

Absolutely. Eating and drinking are allowed, and many travelers enjoy bento boxes during the journey.

What does Shinkansen mean in Japan?

Shinkansen (新幹線) translates to “new trunk line,” referring to a modern main railway built for high-speed travel.

Welcome to the Hells of Beppu.

The Hells of Beppu, called Beppu Jigoku in Japanese, are seven hot springs located in the Kannawa and Shibaseki Districts of Beppu, Oita Prefecture. Unlike typical Japanese hot springs, these scalding ponds are not for bathing but rather, for viewing as they can reach temperatures of up to 100℃ (212℉). Their unique appearances—from their vivid hues to their unlikely crocodile companions—have made them exceedingly popular attractions for international and domestic travelers alike.

In this guide, we will introduce the city of Beppu, the special characteristics of each hell, jigoku mushi (hell-steamed cuisine), Beppu Jigoku ticket prices, and access information.

Are you ready? Let’s step into hell.

Beppu: One of Japan’s most famous hot spring resorts

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Located in Japan’s southern Kyushu region in Oita Prefecture, Beppu is one of the largest hot spring resorts in western Japan, producing more hot spring water than any other resort in the country. People from Japan and abroad flock to this city for its retro charm, historic inns, and of course, its plethora of baths. Here, rising hot spring steam intertwines with city life and the verdant mountains beyond, creating a captivating mingling of nature and man. For an incredible view of this scenery, visit Yukemuri Observation Deck where you are granted elevated panoramas of the steam-adorned Beppu and Kannawa Districts against Mt. Tsurumi and Mt. Ohira.

The Seven Hells of Beppu

Alongside the city’s innumerable relaxation offerings and nostalgic streets are the 7 Hells of Beppu. Of the seven hells, five are located in the Kannawa District and are easily explorable by foot. The other two reside in the Shibaseki District, which is about a 20-minute drive or bus ride away. Many visitors opt to travel by local bus or a sightseeing bus. We will have more details on the logistics later! First, let’s introduce the distinguishing features of each hell, four of which are designated as National Places of Scenic Beauty (Umi Jigoku, Chinoike Jigoku, Tatsumaki Jigoku, and Shiraiike Jigoku).

We will first list the five Kannawa hells, followed by the two Shibaseki hells.

• Kannawa District: Umi Jigoku, Oniishibozu Jigoku, Shiraike Jigoku, Kamado Jigoku, and Oniyama Jigoku
• Shibaseki District: Chinoike Jigoku and Tatsumaki Jigoku

The entrance fee for each hell is ¥500. If you are planning to visit five or more hells, we suggest purchasing the Common Admission Pass for ¥2,400, which offers savings of up to ¥1,100. You can purchase this pass at any of the hells. Though please be aware that the pass is only valid for two days—the day of purchase and the day afterwards—and only permits you to enter each hell once.

1. Umi Jigoku: “Sea Hell”

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Umi Jigoku is one of Beppu’s representative hells and has a roughly 1,200-year-old history. It is recognized as the largest of Beppu’s Hells, rests at roughly 98℃ (208.4℉), and is 200 meters deep. However, its most distinctive feature is its vivid cobalt water from which it earned the name “Sea Hell.” Around the pond, lush greenery, vermilion torii (gates), and plumes of white steam contrast with the alluring water. In addition to the hell, the site is also home to a beautiful Japanese garden, a pond with giant lilies (best viewed in the morning from summer to autumn), and a nourishing foot bath. It is also a great place to pick up souvenirs and try some hell-cooked cuisine (jigoku mushi). The hot spring-boiled eggs and pudding are especially popular.

2. Oniishibozu Jigoku: “Monk’s Head Hell”

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Oniishibozu Jigoku is different from the other Beppu Hells. Instead of water, it is filled with bubbling, gray mud. When the bubbles dome on the surface, they resemble the shaven heads of monks, hence its name. As layered rings form around the bubbles, the pond takes on an almost celestial appearance. Near the pond is a geyser named Oni no Takaibiki, or “Demon’s Snoring.” As you may have guessed, the steam that spews from this geyser sounds like a slumbering demon. Similar to Umi Jigoku, Oniishibozu Jigoku also features hell-steamed pudding and eggs, as well as a foot bath where you can unwind to the sounds of burbling mud and dozing demons.

Another feature that sets this hell apart from the others is the adjacent day spa, Onishi-no-Yu. In the midst of your adventure, this facility offers a naturally lush haven where you can pause and relax in an indoor or outdoor bath that still echoes the sounds of bubbling mud.

3. Shiraike Jigoku: “White Pond Hell”

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As its name suggests, Shiraike Jigoku is known for its milky white water. Around the pond, a beautiful Japanese garden adds a touch of serenity to the area. This hell is known to be one of the quietest Beppu Hells, so it is a perfect stop when you need a moment of peace. Interestingly, the hot spring is also home to a Tropical Fish Aquarium that houses numerous species—most notably, the pirarucu, which is one of the largest freshwater fish in the world.

4. Kamado Jigoku: “Cooking Pot Hell”

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According to legend, the fumarolic gases of Kamado Jigoku were used to steam rice for the guardian deity of the Kamado Hachimangu Shrine Festival—giving the spring its name “Cooking Pot Hell.” However, this hell is not a singular “pot.” Instead, it is made up of six mini hells, featuring vivid pools of cobalt and red, as well as a mud pond. It is almost like a mini culmination of the Hells of Beppu.

When you first enter the hell, you will be greeted by its representative demon statue, standing over a collection of steaming rocks. In between admiring the springs, you can relax with a moisturizing steam bath for the hands, feet, throat, and skin, soak your feet in beautifying cobalt hot spring water, and try some hell-steamed eats.

5. Oniyama Jigoku: “Crocodile Hell”

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You may have assumed that Oniyama Jigoku got its name from a story or myth related to crocodiles, but this is not the case. The Crocodile Hell is actually home to about 70 crocodiles and is known as the first facility in Japan to raise this animal. Naturally, this spring is a must-visit for people who love these ancient reptiles. In addition to live crocodiles, the facility also has an exhibition room with taxidermied crocodiles and a demon monument. It holds crocodile feedings every Sunday and Saturday at 10am.

The main star of Oniyama Jigoku is Ichiro III. Born in 1992, this famous crocodile is about four meters (13 feet) long and weighs 500 kg (1,102 lbs). Be sure to say hi when you visit.

6. Chinoike Jigoku: “Blood Pond Hell”

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Perhaps one of the more sinister hot springs, Chinoike Jigoku is characterized by its vivid vermilion color. The blood-red water and billowing plumes of white steam create a truly hellish landscape. Luckily, the encircling foliage adds lush life to the scenery as well.

Also recognized as Japan’s oldest hell with 1,300 years of history, Chinoike Jigoku has a foot bath, a souvenir shop, and a restaurant serving popular eats like the Chinoike Burger and Chinoike Pudding. As a memento of your visit, we recommend picking up some Chinoike ointment, made from clay that boils out of the hell. The red clay is said to help soothe skin issues, including eczema, athlete’s foot, itchy skin, and acne.

7. Tatsumaki Jigoku: “Tornado Hell”

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Rather than a hot spring, Tatsumaki Jigoku is a geyser that erupts about every 30 to 40 minutes. If not for the stone roof above the geyser, it would have the power to reach approximately 30 meters (98 feet) high. Here, you can also enjoy lovely azaleas from mid-April to early May and beautiful migrating chestnut tiger butterflies in October. Be sure to stop by the local souvenir corner for fresh gelato made from Oita ingredients and refreshing mandarin juice made from Tatsumaki Farm’s fruit.

Jigoku mushi: Hell-steamed cuisine

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Now, let’s talk about jigoku mushi. Dating back to the Edo period (1603–1868), this cooking method uses hot spring steam to cook food. Typically, the ingredients, such as vegetables, fish, meat, pudding, and more, are arranged in a colander and placed in a “jigoku kettle,” which releases high-temperature steam. They are then left to softly cook. The ingredients are not seasoned since they absorb the slightly salty taste of the hot spring steam. With this technique, the natural flavors of the ingredients truly shine.

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In Oita, especially in the Kannawa District, you can enjoy jigoku mushi at inns and restaurants, and some facilities even allow you to steam your own ingredients, creating a uniquely immersive dining experience.

The Hells of Beppu Tour

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If you want to explore all of Beppu’s hells, we recommend following the Beppu Jigoku Tour (Beppu Jigoku Meguri), a generally self-guided experience that takes about three hours. Though, please note that the hells are only open from 8am–5pm.

Most visitors start in the Kannawa District since its five hells are explorable by foot—approximately five minutes apart. When you are ready to travel to the Shibaseki District, take a local Kamenoi Bus from the Kannawa Bus Stop, located in front of the Kannawa Information Centre, to Chinoike Jigoku Mae. The bus ride takes about five to 10 minutes and costs ¥220.

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If you are looking for a more structured tour, you can also reserve a seat on Kamenoi Bus’ Regular Sightseeing Bus Tour. This tour costs ¥4,500 for adults and includes the hells’ admission fees, a guide (in Japanese only), and transportation between the hells. Please check the official website for more information.

No matter how you choose to explore the Hells of Beppu, you are guaranteed to leave feeling awed by Earth’s impressive power and beauty.

Access to the Hells of Beppu

Most visitors start at Beppu Station, which services the Nippo Main Line, as well as the Limited Express trains Sonic, Yufu, and Yufuin-No-Mori. From Beppu Station, the easiest way to reach the Beppu Jigoku is by local bus to Kannawa Bus Stop, which takes about 20 to 25 minutes.

Once you arrive, you are ready to explore!

Now, as Shinagawa Intercity—the 32-story high-rise of offices and restaurants connected to Shinagawa Station—reopens, bringing with it a wealth of food and drink options for hungry workers and travelers alike, the doors also opened to the YONA YONA Tokyo Brewery, the largest brewery restaurant directed connected to a train station in all of Japan.

From a rotating selection of craft beers served with paired European dishes to behind-the-scenes brewery tours, let’s see what to expect in YONA YONA’s latest blend of bar, restaurant, and brewery.

YONA YONA Tokyo Brewery, the all-new brewery restaurant for beer lovers

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With approximately 200 seats, YONA YONA Tokyo Brewery is officially Japan's largest brewery restaurant directly connected to a train station. This means that there’s space for all people and occasions, whether you’re the salaryman popping in for a beer or two before heading home, the weekly nomikai drinking party of colleagues, or tourists exploring the sights and scenes of Shinagawa.

From the moment you wander inside, it’s easy to see why this spot is the new flagship of YONA YONA BEER WORKS—the beer restaurant of Yo-Ho Brewing, in partnership with Wonder Table. and Nippon Steel Kowa Real Estate. Exposed brick walls, atmospheric, warm lighting, and eye-catching, yet muted, artwork adorns the walls, crafting a setting that’s both stylish and cozy.

In the background, gleaming silver vats may catch your eye—that’s the YONA YONA brewery, where bi-monthly tours show visitors how and why this space will become a “hub for pioneering the future of craft beer.”

Wonder Table will handle restaurant management and food development, while Yo-Ho Brewing will be in charge of beer development and brewing. By combining the expertise of Wonder Table, well-versed in restaurant management, with Yo-Ho Brewing's strengths in craft beer development and fan events, they hope to create an all-new experience for beer lovers.

YONA YONA Tokyo Brewery: Restaurant

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Once you’ve taken your seat—perhaps beside the lively open kitchen or along the underlit bar counter—an enticing selection of limited-edition beers and pairing foods await.

Over at the bar, YONA YONA Tokyo Brewery plans to always have at least 10 craft beers on tap, with a rotation of three or four beers freshly brewed in their on-site brewery, changing with the seasons.

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Three such YONA YONA beers include:

• Gate One: The flagship blend of this brewery restaurant, promising a bright, hoppy, and refreshing beer that’s perfect for ending a long work day.
  
• Sakura Knot: Inspired by the cherry blossoms blooming in Shinagawa Intercity Central Garden, this beer uses only Japanese ingredients and techniques, including beloved cherry blossom leaves.
  
• Fruit Quartet Hazy: One for lovers of fruit beer! A blend of fruits and vanilla, sure to please craft beer drinkers with a sweet tooth.

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Can’t decide which beer to try? Order a few different beers with friends and taste-test your way through them, or make the most of their “beer takeout,” allowing you to take a different beer away whenever you want.

Every dish on the restaurant menu has also been carefully considered to complement the flavor profiles of the beer. Around 30 different dishes and beer-paired bites will be served, featuring generous signature options like Roasted Saisai Chicken, original Homemade Craft Sausages—with everything from mincing the meat to stuffing the casings done in-house—and Ginger-fried Bone-in Domestic Pork.

Or, for those looking for a leisurely lunch option, pair a crisp Gate One beer with a lunch-only Homemade Hot Dog, served with a side of potato wedges and salad.

YONA YONA Tokyo Brewery tour

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Don’t just peek in at the YONA YONA Tokyo brewery from afar—get up close and personal with the place “where craft beer is born.” See, touch, and taste the raw materials and learn how they’re prepared, and their effect on the finished product.

Once you’ve followed the journey of craft beer from malt and hops to the final amber-hued pour, enjoy a beer flight and guided tasting. You’ll learn the unique stories behind each beer, along with the best dishes for pairing with your new favorite craft ales.

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Join a YONA YONA brewery tour: The tours only have a capacity of 15 people per session, making it an exclusive craft beer experience for ¥3,520 per person. Head to the YONA YONA brewery tour website to find out when the next tour will be.

YONA YONA merchandise

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If you have an appetite left over for some YONA YONA merch, you’re in luck. The merchandise area will be the first thing you see when you walk in, and the last thing you see when you walk out, tempting you to treat yourself to some YONA YONA-branded goodies.

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Items for sale include:

• T-shirts
• Sweaters
• Tote bags
• Caps
• Glassware
• Takeaway beer containers
• Water bottles
• …and so much more!

What to expect in Shinagawa Intercity

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You didn’t think that the YONA YONA Tokyo Brewery restaurant was the only thing inside the gleaming skyscraper that is Shinagawa Intercity, did you? Here’s everything else you can expect from the new-and-improved Shop & Restaurant building…

Sumiyakiya Komorebi

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Sumiyakiya Komorebi is a sleek, traditional robatayaki charcoal-grilling restaurant that will fill your evening with the sounds and aromas of slow-grilled fish and vegetables in the heart of the city.

Yakitori Samushin

Yakitori Samushin is all about omakase (chef's choice) skewers, served one by one as they’re ready. Allow your taste buds to follow the ebbs and flows of the season, delighting in an ever-changing selection of grilled chicken, seafood, and vegetables.

SHINATERRACE KITCHEN

As part of the Shinagawa Intercity renovation, a new food hall was announced, taking the name of "SHINATERRACE KITCHEN." Within its calming, open space are a number of eat-in or to-go restaurants, taking you around the world’s cuisines without ever leaving Shinagawa.

• Spice Theater: Fragrant curries and tapas dishes, alongside hearty biryani, soup curry, and katsu curry.
  
• Nogata Gyoza: A renowned gyoza restaurant that’s featured in Tabelog's Top 100 Restaurants, known for their golden-brown, pan-fried gyoza.
  
• Odashi Udon Kakaya: Traditional Japanese dishes like udon noodles in a dashi broth, crispy rice, and more unique udon offerings, such as cream udon and mentaiko spicy cod roe udon.
  
• Crisp Salad Works: Personalize your salad exactly to your liking with a range of 30 toppings. Who said eating healthily had to be boring?
  
• BISTRO NONKI: Ease into European dining with a glass of wine and a relaxing bistro atmosphere, with flavorful Western-style rice dishes and grilled Wagyu beef.
  
• Washoku Biyori Osaketo: A “sake oasis where office workers can relax.” Pair carefully selected sake from sake master Naoki Yamaguchi with the Japanese cuisine of head chef Satoshi Anjiki, who honed his skills in Ginza.

Getting to Shinagawa Intercity

Shinagawa Intercity is directly connected to the Konan Exit (East Exit) of Shinagawa Station via a pedestrian walkway, taking about five to eight minutes on foot, depending on which line you arrive by.

Multiple lines reach Shinagawa Station, a major transit hub, including JR Yamanote, JR Keihin-Tohoku, JR Tokaido, JR Yokosuka, the Tokaido Shinkansen, and the private Keikyu Line.

Fancy a beer at YONA YONA Tokyo Brewery?

Whether you’re traveling through Shinagawa as part of your Japan itinerary or are lucky enough to work in the area, YONA YONA Tokyo Brewery is the place to be when you’re craving a craft ale and a filling, well-paired meal.

Stop by with friends, colleagues, or a moment of me-time and unwind with an aromatic, crisp beer that’s been expertly brewed on-site.

Photo credits: All photos are credited to Wondertable, Ltd. unless indicated

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YONA YONA Tokyo Brewery FAQs

Just don’t tell Yuri any of this. She would hate this place.

Darkness is one of her personal “Three Ks of Doom”: Kurai, Kusai, and Kitanai. Well, it’s not dirty or smelly—but Kurai? Oh yes. Darkness everywhere. “Are you trying to kill me? Do you think I don’t exist? Why are you so selfish—turning off the lights just so you can watch a movie in the living room?”

Fair questions.

Well, given there is no electricity to turn on the lights, let’s turn our attention to dinner.

The river fish here is outstanding. You eat it straight off the stick like a drumstick—crispy salted skin, bones included, and even the tail, which has the texture of potato chips. If you want to remove the bigger bones, you can… but honestly, in the pitch‑black dining room, no one can see what you’re doing anyway. You can pretty much do whatever you want.

Dinner involves lighting your own candle to cook the hotpot, which feels like having a personal campfire. You decide how rare—or well done—you want your meal. The homemade pickles and vegetable‑heavy dishes make this one of the healthiest nights out, though sitting cross‑legged on floor cushions may require a physiotherapist for some people. Thankfully, I didn’t witness any emergency stretching sessions during my stay.

Each dinner dish is introduced rakugo‑style by the chef—equal parts storyteller and aspiring stand‑up comic—but only in Japanese. In fact, almost everything is in Japanese, except for the crucial sign reminding you to “wear brown slippers to go outside.” Having some knowledge of the Japanese language definitely helps. Miso soup and rice are served from a central table, buffet‑style, and the soups vary between breakfast and dinner.

Breakfast is where things really shine. The highlight is a delicate fish served with a plum‑like sauce—sweet, savoury, and just a little tart. You can eat the entire thing, head and tail included. Even the poem on the seaweed packet perfectly captures the spirit of the place: living in harmony with mountains, rivers, forests, and sky.

I can easily imagine Japanese culture students—or parents desperately needing to detox—falling in love with Aoni Onsen. There’s a monastic, dormitory‑like rhythm to the place: everyone eats the same meal at the same time. It’s basic, but not spartan. Unlimited rice and soup help, as does an excellent selection of beer, wine, and spirits—especially the sake and apple cider, which beautifully preserve the sweetness of Aomori apples. Prices are very good compared to most developed countries. Picture a small bottle of sake for under 1,000 yen.

Above all, there’s a genuine sense of community. When a long‑time staff member returned for a visit, she received a rousing welcome. And in a place this dark, that kind of warmth really stands out.

For travelers seeking a quieter side of Nara, we have several sightseeing sites that offer a glimpse into the region’s artistic and spiritual heritage, followed by two distinctive hotels that provide a peaceful base near these places.

Must-see sights in Nara

Nara captivates visitors with its extraordinary concentration of cultural landmarks, sacred forests, and beautifully preserved traditional neighborhoods—a combination perfect for first-time and returning travelers.

Here are some of the highlights that make Nara a must-visit destination in Japan.

UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Nara

Many of Nara’s world heritage sites are recognized collectively as the “Historic Monuments of Ancient Nara,” a UNESCO World Heritage designation granted in 1998. Unlike many listings that recognize a single site, this inscription includes eight distinct cultural properties registered together as one heritage ensemble, reflecting the city’s role as a center of religion, culture, and government during the Nara period.

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Todai-ji Temple stands out for its Daibutsuden (Great Buddha Hall), one of the world’s largest wooden structures, and for housing the imposing Great Buddha of Nara. The temple is set by Nara Park, where around 1,300 wild deer roam freely and are protected as a national treasure. Nearby, Kofuku-ji Temple—once the family temple of the influential Fujiwara clan—features impressive pagodas and a museum home to exceptional Buddhist sculptures, such as the famed Ashura statue.

Kasuga Taisha Shrine, with its atmospheric, lantern-lined approach and tranquil grounds, preserves about 3,000 lanterns donated over the centuries, sharing this sacred landscape with the city’s iconic deer. Nara’s rich heritage extends to Gango-ji Temple, one of Japan’s oldest, notable for its ancient roof tiles and a miniature five-story pagoda, a Natural Treasure, dating back over a millennium.

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Yakushi-ji Temple is celebrated for the Yakushi Triad, a masterpiece of gilt-bronze Buddhist art, while Toshodai-ji Temple exudes serenity with its classical architecture, reflecting the layout of ancient capital Heijo-kyo. Beyond the temples, Heijo Palace Site Historical Park preserves the remains of the Heijo imperial palace from Nara’s era as Japan’s capital, and the Kasugayama Primeval Forest offers a rare glimpse of an untouched sacred woodland, protected for centuries as part of the sacred grounds of Kasuga Taisha Shrine.

Spiritual sites beyond the landmarks

While Nara is widely known for iconic UNESCO sites, the region also offers a number of lesser-known temples and shrines where visitors can experience traditional religious culture in a more tranquil setting. You can expand your Nara temple tour for another day.

Among them is Himuro Shrine, a shrine connected to ancient ice ponds and ice storehouses (himuro) dating back to the Nara period, when ice was presented to the imperial court. Today it is known for its unusual “ice fortune” or himi-kuji, a paper fortune whose message appears when placed on a block of ice. In summer, visitors can offer shaved ice as part of their prayers before enjoying it afterward as a symbolic sacred treat.

Another peaceful retreat is Jiko‑in, a temple deeply associated with the tea ceremony tradition. Its quiet garden overlooks the Yamato Plain, and guests can savor freshly prepared matcha while seated in the historic shoin (study hall), an Important Cultural Property. Reservations are also available for traditional Buddhist vegetarian cuisine, offering a refined introduction to temple hospitality.

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Further to the south, Hasedera Temple is often called the “Temple of Flowers.” The expansive grounds change character with the seasons, but spring and early summer are particularly striking when thousands of peonies and hydrangeas bloom across the temple terraces.

Gardens, museums, and more of nature

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Nara’s cultural landscape also has preserved merchant quarters and beautifully maintained gardens. Located within Nara Park, the Nara National Museum holds a huge collection of Buddhist sculpture and religious paintings. Its annual Shosoin Exhibition in autumn draws visitors from across the country, showcasing rare treasures connected to the imperial storehouse of the ancient capital.

Nearby, Isuien Garden presents a classic strolling landscape that blends scenery from two distinct historical periods: the “Front Garden” of the early Edo period (1603-1868) and the “Rear Garden” of the Meiji period (1868-1912). The garden’s layered design incorporates distant views of nearby temple roofs and forested hills, while the adjacent Neiraku Museum of Art displays fine works of Asian ceramics and decorative arts.

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For a glimpse into Nara’s merchant past, the historic district of Naramachi preserves traditional townhouses once owned by traders and artisans. Today, its narrow streets are lined with small cafes, craft boutiques, and galleries, creating one of the city’s most atmospheric areas for wandering. Within the district, the Naramachi Karakuri Toy Museum invites visitors to see—and even operate—ingenious mechanical toys that entertained families during the Edo period.

Nara also offers quiet natural settings ideal for slow exploration. The riverside path along the Saho River, the Saho Seseragi no Sato, provides a peaceful walking route lined with cherry trees. In spring, the blossoms form a delicate canopy above the water, creating one of the city’s most pleasant places for a leisurely stroll.

Local, hands-on experiences

One of Nara’s most memorable experiences is Shika Yose, or deer calling, held on the grassy fields of Tobihino Field within the grounds of Kasuga Taisha Shrine. At the sound of a horn, nearly one hundred deer gather across the field before being rewarded with scattered acorns. The event takes place in the morning during select periods of winter, spring, and summer. For a more private experience, weekday sessions can also be arranged through the Nara Deer Preservation Foundation, with proceeds supporting deer conservation efforts.

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Visitors can also explore Nara’s cultural heritage through indoor hands-on workshops. At Oshio Masashi Pottery Studio, guests can experience Akahada-yaki, a traditional craft of Nara, and shape their own piece of traditional pottery using clay from Mount Akahada with the help of a skilled instructor. The roughly two-hour session used the hand-building (tebineri) technique to form a piece about the size of a tea bowl, shaped to individual preference. Participants can choose what to make—such as a tea bowl, small plate, or vase—then build the piece layer by layer from the base. Once formed, the rim is refined, the thickness adjusted, then the piece is dried and fired twice and a white glaze is applied. The finished work can be shipped three months later, with both domestic and international delivery available. Shipping costs are charged separately.

Aside from pottery, other hands-on experiences in the area include watching how fresh wagashi (traditional Japanese confections) are made at Yorozu Onkashi Atsuraedokoro Kashi-ya and crafting calligraphy brushes at Akashiya.

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Local cuisine and souvenirs

Nara’s cuisine reflects centuries of local tradition. Signature dishes include kakinoha sushi, pressed sushi wrapped in fragrant persimmon leaves, and Miwa somen, delicate hand-stretched noodles with a history of more than 1,200 years. Simple regional staples such as chagayu (tea porridge) are often enjoyed with narazuke, a deeply fermented pickle made by aging vegetables in sake lees.

Sweets and souvenirs are equally distinctive. Freshly pounded yomogi mochi at Nakatanido is a popular stop, while summer brings beautifully crafted shaved ice inspired by the traditions of Himuro Shrine. Visitors can also sample Yoshino kuzu desserts or premium Kotoka strawberries, and bring home regional crafts such as Akahada-yaki ceramics or traditional Nara sumi ink.

Kamenoi Hotel Nara for scenic views of the ancient capital

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Set beside one of Japan’s most significant archaeological sites, Kamenoi Hotel Nara offers a tranquil base for exploring the ancient capital. Directly in front of the hotel stretches the vast Heijo Palace Ruins, a World Heritage Site. During the day, the expansive grounds reveal the scale of the former imperial palace, while at night the illuminated landscape creates an entirely different atmosphere.

The hotel provides a peaceful environment where guests can unwind beside centuries of history as it is located away from the busy areas of Nara, but it also offers so much more. Here’s what awaits you.

Guest rooms

Guest rooms are designed to combine comfort with views of Nara’s historic landscape. West-facing rooms overlook the sweeping grounds of the Heijo Palace Ruins and the iconic Suzaku Gate, with Mount Wakakusa visible in the distance. Watching the changing light over these historic landmarks adds a memorable dimension to the stay.

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For a more luxurious experience, the hotel offers a Premium Japanese-Western Style Room with Natural Hot Spring View Bath (Non-Smoking) with a natural hot spring bath, where guests can enjoy private hot spring bathing at any time of day. It also includes special amenities like massage chairs, coffee machines, air purifiers, and deodorizing systems.

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Five Japanese-Western Style Rooms (non-smoking) also feature 24-hour flowing hot spring baths with views along with essential amenities, including air-purifiers. The regular Japanese-Western style rooms, meanwhile, blend tatami flooring with Western-style beds, allowing guests to relax in a traditional Japanese setting while still enjoying the comfort of modern bedding. All rooms are non-smoking.

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Natural hot springs

The hotel’s hot spring baths provide a soothing retreat after a day of sightseeing. The indoor bath is lined with yakisugi (charred cedar), evoking the atmosphere of Nara’s historic streets while filling the space with the warmth of natural wood. Outside, the open-air bath offers a tranquil setting reminiscent of a Japanese garden, where guests can relax while feeling the seasonal breezes. Both hot springs are equipped with sodium-chloride, known for its ability to retain warmth and keep the body comfortable long after bathing—especially welcome during cooler months in Nara.

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Guests with tattoos are welcome, as long as tattoos are covered with concealment stickers—a feature still relatively uncommon among Japanese hot spring facilities.

Facilities and viewpoints

A highlight of the property is its View Lounge, an observation space where guests can take in panoramic views of the surrounding landmarks. Windows are labeled to help identify key sites such as the Heijo Palace Ruins, the reconstructed Daigokuden Hall, and Mount Wakakusa. The lounge becomes particularly atmospheric during dusk, when the setting sun casts warm light over the palace ruins and the moon rises in the direction of Todai-ji Temple and Mount Wakakusa.

Within the hotel, guests can also enjoy relaxed leisure time with facilities such as karaoke rooms and massage chairs.

Dining inspired by Nara’s culinary heritage

Dining is another highlight at Kamenoi Hotel Nara. Meals are served at Restaurant Horai, where large windows overlook the garden and create a calm setting for enjoying regional cuisine.

The morning breakfast, which is well-loved and recommended by returning visitors, is presented buffet-style and showcases a wide selection of Nara specialties. Guests can sample local dishes such as chagayu, narazuke pickles, noppe stew, and simmered chicken, along with fresh vegetables and fruit. Other regional highlights include Yamato chicken croquettes with narazuke tartar sauce, potato salad made with eggs from Takemura Poultry Farm, miso soup prepared with local Gotoku miso, and rice grown in Nara Prefecture. Together, the dishes offer a flavorful introduction to the region’s food culture.

Dinner is served kaiseki style, with several seasonal course options highlighting locally sourced ingredients such as Yamato vegetables, Yamato beef, and Miwa somen. Depending on the season, the sashimi course may include the Nara brand sea bream known as “Kaki-dai,” raised on persimmon leaves. The meal concludes with kamameshi rice prepared with Nara-grown Hinohikari rice and traditional kombu and bonito broth. Guests can also enjoy tasting sets of regional sake—fitting for Nara, which is often described as the birthplace of Japanese sake.

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Aside from dinner, guests are also treated to a comforting late-night snack in the evening: the “Jigoku Meguri” Yonaki Tantanmen, a signature Japanese ramen offered at Kamenoi Hotels across Japan.

For day visitors, the hotel offers the “Koto Meguri Plan,” a lunch package priced at ¥3,500 that combines a kaiseki-style meal with access to the hot spring bath. Advanced reservation is recommended.

Souvenirs and crafts

The hotel shop provides a curated selection of Nara specialties and unique souvenirs. Classic regional foods such as kakinoha sushi, narazuke pickles, Miwa somen noodles, kuzukiri sweets, and deer-shaped monaka (a Japanese sweet made of azuki bean paste) can be found alongside tastings of burdock root tea.

Guests can also browse locally crafted goods, including deer-themed stationery, postcards, and accessories, in the shop. Nara is Japan’s leading producer of socks, and a variety of colorful designs are also available here. Traditional calligraphy brushes are sold together with adult coloring books inspired by the landscapes and seasons of Nara, offering a creative way to remember the journey long after the trip ends.

How to get there

If you think Kamenoi Hotel Nara is the perfect stay based on your itinerary, you can easily reach it from Yamato-Saidaiji Station on the Kintetsu Line, with a complimentary shuttle bus available by reservation for added convenience.

Wan Wan Paradise Nara Ikoma for travelers with pets

Set amid the lush landscapes between the Yata Hills and Ikoma Mountains, Wan Wan Paradise Nara Ikoma offers a relaxed countryside retreat just outside central Nara. The hotel also provides sweeping views that change with the seasons, from vibrant spring greenery to colorful autumn foliage.

On April 11, 2026, the Kamenoi Hotel Yamato Heguri is scheduled to reopen under the new brand Wan Wan Paradise Nara Ikoma, reflecting its strong focus on welcoming travelers with their dogs. And trust us when we say there’s so much for you and your pets here. Here’s what awaits you.

Guest rooms

All guest rooms at the hotel welcome dogs. Room options include Japanese-Western style rooms, Western-style rooms, and traditional Japanese-style tatami rooms with futon bedding. Eight Western-style rooms feature shower booths, and one of them is barrier free so your pets can roam freely.

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Pet-friendly amenities are thoughtfully provided in every room, including a cage, toilet sheets, food bowls, deodorizing spray, waste bags, lint rollers, and wet wipes. This allows guests to travel with minimal luggage while still ensuring their pets’ comfort. Dogs may even sleep beside their owners on the bed or futon if they wear proper diapers. [photo id='246998']

Despite accommodating pets, rest assured that rooms are carefully cleaned and deodorized to maintain a fresh and comfortable environment for all guests.

Natural hot springs

After a day of sightseeing, guests can unwind in the hotel’s simple hot spring. The spacious public bath includes a relaxing seated bath with a soft atmospheric setting, while the open-air bath is designed like a tranquil garden, offering a peaceful space for relaxation.

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The hot spring is referred to as tanjun onsen, known for its gentle mineral composition that is mild on the skin. Its water temperature maintains a low-temperature range from 25°C to under 34°C, so the bath places minimal strain on the body and promotes deep relaxation for guests of all ages.

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While dogs are welcome throughout most areas of the hotel, they are not permitted in the bathing facilities or changing rooms.

Dining with pets

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One of the hotel’s most distinctive features is its dog-friendly dining experience. Dogs are welcome inside the restaurant and can sit beside their owners.

Dinner features seasonal kaiseki cuisine prepared by the head chef using ingredients from Nara and the surrounding region. A dedicated dog dinner menu is also available for an additional fee, so you can share mealtime with your pet without bringing separate food.

Breakfast is served buffet-style and highlights regional specialties such as chagayu, Narazuke pickles, and croquettes flavored with locally produced Yamato tea. Guests can also enjoy dishes featuring Nara-branded Yamato Pork grilled with rock salt, along with a variety of other local ingredients.

Relaxed facilities

Beyond its hot springs and dining, the hotel provides several facilities designed for a leisurely stay. Guests can enjoy karaoke rooms for private gatherings with family and friends, as well as a relaxation corner equipped with massage chairs available around the clock.

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Dogs are welcome throughout most shared spaces, including the lobby and hallways, as long as they remain on a leash. New spaces facilities, including both indoor and outdoor dog runs, allow pets to play comfortably regardless of the weather.

Local souvenirs

The hotel shop offers a selection of local Nara specialties, including Narazuke pickles, kakinoha sushi, kuzukiri sweets, Yamato tea products, and kaki monaka desserts. Traditional Nara dishcloths and other regional goods are also available. For travelers with pets, the shop additionally carries dog food and pet accessories.

How to get there

Wan Wan Paradise Nara Ikoma is located about a 10-minute walk from Motoyamaguchi Station through the Kintetsu Line. A complimentary shuttle bus, only available via reservation, operates three times daily for convenient access.

For foreign visitors traveling to or from Kyoto, it’s highly recommended to extend your trip a little further to Nara to explore more of the charm of Japan’s historic ancient capitals. Kyoto to Nara by train takes only less than an hour away.

Capture Nara’s spirit with the perfect stay

Frequent travelers can soon discover that Nara offers far more than its well-known sights. It’s a region also renowned for its natural beauty, historic sites, and warm, welcoming atmosphere. Your trip will be all the more enjoyable when you pick the right place to stay for your plan. Kamenoi Hotel Nara and Wan Wan Paradise Nara Ikoma are both good options that truly capture the spirit of Nara and are ideal for different types of travelers, even those with pets.

For a limited period this spring, Marugen Ramen is serving their Aged Soy Sauce Abura Soba, available from March 26th to early May 2026. Priced at 979 JPY including tax, the seasonal dish is a rich take on abura soba, a brothless noodle dish known for its concentrated flavor and satisfying texture.

Making its second appearance, the bowl features chewy medium-thick noodles coated in Marugen's signature aged soy sauce and a sweet-savory oil. It is topped with chunky pork belly chashu, onions, seaweed, and green onions, creating a filling dish with plenty of depth.

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Part of the appeal is the ability to adjust the flavor at the table. Diners can add vinegar, chili oil, or fried garlic to suit their own taste, whether they prefer something sharper, spicier, or more aromatic.

Marugen Ramen is also known for its signature Aged Soy Sauce Meat Ramen, along with side dishes such as gyoza, teppan egg fried rice, karaage (fried chicken), and even soft serve ice cream for dessert. Many locations also offer spacious seating, making it a convenient stop for solo diners, families, and travelers on the go.

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For visitors hoping to try a limited-time menu item at a widely available Japanese ramen chain, this seasonal bowl is one to keep on the radar.

Part of Okinawa’s Yaeyama Islands, Ishigaki is the third-largest island in the prefecture and serves as the main gateway to the region’s remote islands, with ferries linking travelers to places like Taketomi, Iriomote, and even Hateruma, Japan’s southernmost inhabited island.

Ishigaki island also rises to Mount Omoto, the highest peak in Okinawa Prefecture, and lies beside the vast coral reefs of Sekisei Lagoon, Japan’s largest reef system. Nearby, there’s also Iriomote Island, part of a UNESCO World Natural Heritage site, where mangroves, subtropical forests, and rich marine ecosystems support hundreds of coral and fish species.

Days at Ishigaki island can mean paddling through jungle rivers or gazing out over the island’s shifting blues, while evenings slow into seaside sunsets. This extraordinary setting makes Ishigaki especially appealing to travelers who want more than just beaches but also meaningful outdoor experiences without giving up adventure and relaxation.

To experience Ishigaki island beaches and its surrounding attractions at their fullest, it helps to know where to begin. Here are some unique things to do in Ishigaki—plus two perfectly placed stays to complement your island escape.

Into the Heart of Ishigaki

Ishigaki is a treasure trove of natural beauty and vibrant local culture. There’s something for every type of traveler. Here’s a glimpse of what awaits, depending on the experience you’re seeking…

Cultural heritage and island traditions

Step into the living history of Yaeyama at Ishigaki Yaima Village, where more than 110-year-old red-tiled homes have been carefully relocated and restored. Recognized as a nationally registered tangible cultural property, the village invites visitors to experience island life through hands-on activities such as shisa (Okinawan guardian lion) painting, star sand art using fossilized grains unique to the region, and traditional Ryukyuan costume try-ons perfect for breezy island photos.

In town, Torin-ji Temple, founded in 1614, stands as Okinawa’s oldest Zen temple, guarded by historic Nio statues and designated a National Important Cultural Property. Just steps away, Gongendou showcases a rare blend of Japanese and Ryukyuan architectural styles, offering a quiet space to reflect on the island’s spiritual heritage.

Scenic views and capes

For sweeping panoramas, Banna Park—often called “Banna Forest”—features an observation deck with wide views over Ishigaki City and the surrounding sea. Depending on the season, you might spot the vibrant, fiery red deigo blossoms, the official flower of Okinawa, typically in bloom from late March to early May, or the delicate, cascading sagaribana (powder-puff tree) flowers, which bloom on summer nights from around late June to July. In mid-February, the kanhizakura cherry blossoms also add a seasonal highlight.

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At the island’s northernmost tip, Hirakubozaki Cape combines its lighthouse lookout with dramatic ocean views and pastoral landscapes, making it a perfect spot for couples. It has been certified as a 'Sacred Place for Love' by the Japan Romanticist Association.

Along the northwest coast, Kabira Bay captivates visitors with its emerald waters and scattered islets—earning three stars in the Michelin Green Guide. Though swimming is prohibited because of extreme currents, glass-bottom boat cruises offer a chance to see coral reefs and tropical fish beneath the famed “Kabira Blue” when weather allows. Visitors often have a good chance of spotting sea turtles, while nearby viewpoints provide exceptional photo opportunities.

A short ferry ride from Ishigaki also leads to Taketomi Island, a small coral island designated as an Important Preservation District for Groups of Traditional Buildings. Red-tiled houses, coral stone walls, and white sandy lanes create a postcard-perfect setting best explored by bicycle or by water buffalo carts.

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For a weatherproof adventure, Ishigaki Island Limestone Cave, formed over 200,000 years from coral, invites visitors into a 660-meter illuminated route of stalactites, fossils, and echoing water chambers—an otherworldly contrast to the island’s sunlit shores.

Natural escapes, forests, and wetlands

For those drawn to raw, untamed landscapes, the Yaeyama region delivers some of Japan’s most immersive natural scenery. A 45-minute ferry ride from Ishigaki brings you to Iriomote Island, where nearly 90% of the island remains cloaked in dense subtropical forest within Iriomote-Ishigaki National Park. Here, mangrove-lined rivers wind toward the sea, waterfalls spill into jungle pools, and rare wildlife—including the elusive Iriomote wildcat—inhabits one of the country’s last true wilderness environments.

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In northern Ishigaki, Yonehara Yaeyama Palm Grove showcases a striking subtropical ecosystem at the foot of Mount Omoto. The endemic Yaeyama palms, found only on Ishigaki and Iriomote, tower overhead to create a lush, jungle-like canopy along an easy walking trail that can be enjoyed in just 10 to 15 minutes. Nearby, Arakawa Waterfall, nourished by Okinawa’s highest peak, offers a tranquil forest retreat where clear water flows through greenery—a welcome respite during the island’s warmer months.

At the edge of land and sea, the wetland at the mouth of the Nagura River—known as Nagura Ampal—is designated as a Ramsar-listed wetland under the international treaty adopted in Iran to protect wetlands. Located beside Nagura Bay , its expansive mangrove forests and tidal flats support diverse birdlife and marine species.

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Local flavors and island keepsakes

Ishigaki’s culinary identity is shaped by its island environment—subtropical produce and recipes passed down through generations. Local favorites range from comforting staples such as Yaeyama soba with its thin, round noodles and shredded pork, to soft yushi tofu served in a light salted broth for breakfast.

Heartier specialties include Ishigaki beef and Misaki beef, prized for their rich flavor and delicately marbled fat, as well as slow-simmered gyujiru (beef soup) and the bold, traditional goat soup known as yagijiru.

Casual island bites like onisasa—a mashed combination of fried chicken and rice ball—reflect everyday ingenuity. The snack originated at Chinen Shokai, founded by the Chinen family and just a 10-minute walk from ART HOTEL Ishigakijima. Meanwhile, island scallion tempura, papaya champuru, and ultra-fresh kuruma shrimp sashimi showcase the balance of land and sea. Seasonal fruits are equally celebrated, with exceptionally sweet pineapples, mangoes harvested in early summer, and papaya varieties offering intense natural sweetness under the island sun.

Souvenirs from Ishigaki capture both flavor and heritage. Mineral-rich Ishigaki sea salt from Nagura Bay and handcrafted Ishiraa chili oil bring island depth to home kitchens, while Yaeyama brown sugar and beni imo (purple sweet potato) sweets are enduring favorites.

Limited-edition awamori (Okinawan alcohol made with long-grain indica rice) available only on the island, along with craft rum from Ishigaki Distillery made from locally grown sugarcane, appeal to spirits enthusiasts.

Traditional craftsmanship also holds strong appeal, from handwoven minsah belts dating back to the Ryukyu Kingdom era (1429–1879, Okinawa-based trading kingdom) to luminous black pearls cultivated in Kabira Bay, renowned for their fine luster and rich color.

ART HOTEL Ishigakijima for city convenience

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Begin your stay at ART HOTEL Ishigakijima, where garden serenity meets easy access to downtown and the island’s ferry terminals, making it an ideal base for both leisurely exploration and active adventures.

Guests can enjoy tropical landscaping right outside their door, local eateries and shops within walking distance, and thoughtful services designed to enhance every stay and capture both the city’s energy and the island spirit.

Here’s what awaits you:

Guest Rooms

Spacious guest rooms with sizes ranging from 20㎡ to 60㎡ provide a welcoming base for a wide range of travel styles, from couples and friends to families and small groups. For parties of three or more, additional beds are available, as well as connecting room options, ensuring everyone enjoys a truly comfortable night’s rest. Each room is fitted with Simmons beds and a private bathroom, along with well-considered in-room amenities that support a seamless, relaxing stay. Some rooms also come with ocean views featuring the sparkling sea of Yaeyama islands.

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Families are well supported with a selection of children’s amenities and rental items available upon request, helping parents pack lighter and settle in comfortably. Guests who choose the hotel’s eco-friendly skip-cleaning program receive vouchers as a gesture of appreciation for their sustainable choice. For added comfort, in-house wear is provided, making it easy to relax and unwind throughout your stay. Loungewear is also available for purchase at the shop.

Facilities and activities

A welcome drink of sanpin tea sets the tone upon your arrival at the hotel, while DOUG’S COFFEE ART HOTEL Ishigakijima on-site operates as a convenient takeaway-only outlet. On the top floor, Sky Bar Capricorn operates as a daytime cafe overlooking the Yaeyama seas and nearby islands. Together, these thoughtful touches create an easy transition from travel mode to island time.

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The tour desk assists with anything related to your stay, as well tour services like island and remote island excursions—with English support available for some tours. One standout option is a half-day mangrove canoe hidden jungle cruise on Iriomote Island, where guests can paddle quietly through protected mangrove rivers within a national park. This immersive excursion offers a meaningful way to experience Okinawa’s unique natural environment within a flexible half-day schedule.

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Evenings at the hotel come alive with free live performances of traditional island songs by local artists in the lobby. By night, Sky Bar CAPRICORN transitions into an atmospheric bar overlooking the city lights, offering a relaxed setting to savor a final drink before turning in.

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During the warmer months (mid-March to the end of October), the seasonal Garden Pool provides a refreshing space to relax, complete with a children’s pool and water slide for added family-friendly enjoyment. After a day of marine activities or sightseeing, guests can unwind in the large public bath and sauna, where the ultra-soft “Niifai-yu” water delivers a soothing and restorative experience.

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For practical amenities, the hotel offers coin-operated laundry facilities and on-site parking, adding convenience for longer stays and international travelers.

Dining options

The hotel’s all-day-dining AQUARIUS serves buffet-style breakfast, lunch, and dinner, with an extensive Western menu including staple breakfast favorites like bread and jams. Local ingredients are incorporated into Western-style creationss, alongside specialties like Yaeyama soba, pork and egg rice balls, and yushi tofu.

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Lunch buffets feature seasonal themes, with weekday a la carte selections including one-soup, three-dish plates. Dinner buffets rotate seasonally and include cocktails made with local fruits and a wide range of alcoholic beverages.

If you’re drawn to Asian flavors, Yakiniku & Chinese Harusaa serves high-quality Ishigaki beef and Misaki beef in approachable portions, grilled right at your table for a freshly prepared experience. The menu is complemented by a variety of vegetable dishes and classic stir-fries, creating a well-balanced selection that highlights both premium local ingredients and comforting regional favorites.

Shop and gallery

The ART SHOP offers a convenient selection of items tailored to island travel, from drinks and snacks to practical essentials such as sunscreen and other tropical necessities. It also carries a wide range of souvenirs unique to Ishigaki, including local specialties like purple sweet potato sweets and awamori, making it easy to pick up thoughtful gifts without leaving the hotel.

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The attached gallery at The ART SHOP showcases works by artists and craftspeople from Ishigaki Island and the wider Yaeyama region. Seasonal and themed exhibitions rotate throughout the year, highlighting the island’s arts and crafts. Many of the displayed pieces are available for purchase, and domestic shipping is offered.

Access

ART HOTEL Ishigakijima is about a 15-minute walk to downtown and approximately eight minutes by local bus to the Port of Departure for remote islands. From Ishigaki Airport, it takes around 35 minutes by bus, with a stop located directly in front of the hotel. A free shuttle to FUSAKI BEACH RESORT HOTEL & VILLAS is available (subject to schedule). A flight from Tokyo to Ishigaki takes approximately 3 to 3.5 hours, while a direct flight from Osaka takes around 2.5 to 3 hours.

FUSAKI BEACH RESORT HOTEL & VILLAS for easy beach access

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FUSAKI BEACH RESORT HOTEL & VILLAS is designed for travelers who want to wake up a few minutes from the sea and fully embrace Ishigaki’s laid-back coastal atmosphere. The resort is an Okinawan-style beachside retreat distinguished by its iconic red-tiled roofs, charming cottage-style buildings, and villa accommodations set across expansive tropical grounds. It’s an ideal choice for couples seeking romance, families wanting space to play, and anyone looking to balance comfort with the simple pleasure of island living.

Guest rooms

FUSAKI BEACH RESORT HOTEL & VILLAS offers a variety of room types, ranging from ocean-view guestrooms and garden patio rooms to spacious family rooms, villas, and refined suites. Designed with red-tiled roofs and elements of Ishigaki stone, the architecture reflects the island’s culture and history while blending seamlessly into the tropical surroundings.

Ocean-view rooms provide sweeping vistas of Fusaki Beach, while patio rooms enveloped in greenery create a closer connection to nature. Across categories, open layouts and generous floor plans enhance the sense of space and freedom that defines a true island stay.

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Suites elevate the experience further, with select options featuring kitchens and bar counters for added flexibility. There’s also two types of villas for groups, an exclusive retreat ideal for couples and families.The Forest Suite Villa comes with a terrace, a private pool, and a fire pit, while the Garden Suite Villa comes with a terrace, a large dining area with BBQ facilities, and a fire pit.

Family rooms are thoughtfully appointed with educational toys and picture books, while some accommodations also provide beauty appliances such as specialty shower heads, facial devices, and hair irons. In select rooms, guests can even take home beach sandals and eco-bags as a keepsake of their stay.

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Beach, pool, and water activities

FUSAKI BEACH RESORT HOTEL & VILLAS enjoys one of Ishigaki Island’s most celebrated sunset locations, where the sky gradually shifts into brilliant shades of orange and pink over the horizon. The iconic Fusaki Angel Pier extends gracefully into the sea, offering a picturesque setting to take in ocean views by day, glowing sunsets in the evening, and star-filled skies after dark. The natural beach stretches approximately one kilometer directly in front of the resort, providing immediate access to swimming, snorkeling, and sea kayaking. The surrounding waters are home to coral reefs, adding to the site’s ecological significance.

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The Aqua Garden, which comprises the beach side and splash park areas, offers a different rhythm throughout the day—sun-soaked relaxation in the afternoon, front-row sunset views in the evening, and illuminated ambiance at night. Families will especially appreciate the island’s largest splash park, complete with giant tipping buckets and multiple water slides. For added convenience, towels can be borrowed and exchanged freely at both the pool and the large public bath.

THE STAR BAR, set directly on a poolside area overlooking the ocean, serves authentic cocktails in a uniquely atmospheric setting—perfect for enjoying cocktails under the stars or at sunset.

Facilities and wellness

The resort’s facilities are designed to support both relaxation and recreation. Well-equipped amenities include an indoor pool, a gym, spa facilities, and large public baths, ensuring guests have everything they need on-site.

Wellness offerings range from morning yoga sessions accompanied by the sound of waves to professional spa treatments for deeper relaxation. Families traveling with children can visit Animal Square, where guests can feed and walk goats and interact with other friendly animals—an experience that remains a highlight for younger visitors.

Dining options

FUSAKI BEACH RESORT HOTEL & VILLAS features seven restaurants and bars on-site, offering a diverse culinary lineup that ranges from buffet dining and beachside BBQ (during the warmer seasons) to a cafe, cocktail bars, Ryukyu specialties, and innovative fusion cuisine. Whether you’re in the mood for a casual family meal or a more refined evening experience, the variety ensures there is something to suit every palate and occasion.

ISHIGAKI BOLD KITCHEN, for one, presents a vibrant live-kitchen buffet with approximately 80 dishes, blending international flavors with Okinawan ingredients such as beef, purple sweet potatoes, and sea grapes. For an additional feed, the spread also includes a wide selection of tropical fruit juices—guava, pineapple, and mango among them—alongside abundant desserts and self-serve ice cream. Families are well catered to with kids’ meals, baby food, and child-friendly tableware, while adults can opt for an all-you-can-drink plan to complement dinner.

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Beyond the buffet, additional venues offer distinct dining experiences. Ryukyu Shintenchi serves Ryukyu and Asian cuisine in a refined setting, while HANARÉ offers reservation-only creative courses for a more intimate meal. For a relaxed yet memorable evening, the BEACHSIDE GRILL Kachibai allows guests to savor American-style BBQ just steps from the sea, combining local flavors with an unmistakable oceanfront atmosphere.

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Other dining options include Aqua Garden Cafe, a laid-back spot serving gourmet burgers and refreshing drinks, ideal for a casual lunch or light bite, and Lounge Bar ADAN, a resort lounge offering coffee and other refreshing drinks.

Shops

Two on-site shops offer Fusaki original products such as jams, cakes, and ready-to-eat items, alongside local brand goods and island souvenirs. A 24-hour complimentary shuttle cart service makes it easy to move comfortably around the expansive property. But during busy times, guests may need to wait around 20 minutes. Additionally, carts are not permitted to enter the North Wing area, so guests staying in the North Wing will be picked up and dropped off near the front desk.

Access

FUSAKI BEACH RESORT HOTEL & VILLAS is conveniently connected for both domestic and international travelers. A complimentary shuttle bus operates between Ishigaki Airport and the hotel (multiple trips per day, exclusively for guests and depending on the season), making arrivals and departures seamless. Free parking is also available, offering added flexibility for those exploring the island by rental car.

The resort is located approximately 15 minutes by car from the Port of Departure for remote islands, allowing easy access to ferries bound for nearby destinations. Direct flights from Haneda or Osaka reach Ishigaki in around three to three and a half hours, placing this beachfront retreat within comfortable reach of Japan’s major cities.

Elevate your stay with a two-part escape

For the best of both worlds, consider dividing your time between the two hotels if you plan to stay in Ishigaki for multiple days. Begin with ART HOTEL Ishigakijima, where the central location makes it easy to stay active—join island-hopping excursions, explore remote beaches, and spend evenings discovering local izakaya bars and dining spots in town. Its convenient access and lively surroundings set the tone for an adventure-filled day trip from Ishigaki.

Then transition to FUSAKI BEACH RESORT HOTEL & VILLAS for a slower, more indulgent finale. Here, you can shift your focus to pure relaxation—lingering by the beach and embracing the simple luxury of doing nothing at all. It’s a smart way to balance exploration with restorative downtime before check-out.

Beyond the hotels themselves, Ishigaki Island can serve as your gateway to the wider Yaeyama archipelago of Japan and reveal a compelling mix of vivid marine landscapes, deep-rooted Ryukyu heritage, and an easygoing island atmosphere that anyone will surely enjoy. So, step beyond the city—or your chosen stay—and let the island shape your days.

Of course, with traveling comes accommodations, and Izu Kogen has no shortage of Izu dog friendly hotels, from the laid-back YU-FURI IZUKOGEN to the blissful Wan Wan Paradise Izukogen—both of which provide numerous amenities to satisfy everyone’s needs. Plus, a free shuttle bus stops at both hotels twice a day, adding convenience to the already inclusive stays.

Apart from your Izu Kogen dog friendly hotel, Izu Kogen is also home to a plethora of activities for you and your canine companion, including coastal exploration, mountain views, shrine visits, and various craft-making workshops. While in the area, you can also sample the region’s local cuisine, featuring premium wagyu, fresh seafood, and top-tier wasabi.

Explore Izu Kogen as your dog reaps the benefits of Inu Kogen!

YU-FURI IZUKOGEN: A self-service experience

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Let’s start with YU-FURI IZUKOGEN, a special kind of hotel that prioritizes comfort and freedom. This peaceful, self-service accommodation minimizes staff interactions and excessive services to create a home-like environment where people can unwind at their own pace and shy or anxious dogs can relax. The Izu Kogen pet friendly hotel is set scenically on a spacious hilltop overlooking the sea and offers condominium-style rooms that are ideal for longer stays and moments of solitude.

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Your adventure begins the moment you step into the lobby, where local Guricha green tea and self-grilled mitarashi dango (rice dumplings coated in a sweet and savory glaze) are on offer. Even the hallways are adorned with adorable dog illustrations.

Comfortable guest rooms

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YU-FURI IZUKOGEN offers two types of guest rooms—standard and pet-friendly. One of the highlights of these spaces is their fully equipped kitchens. Since there are no restaurants on site, the kitchens allow you to prepare and/or enjoy local food, like kinmedai (Golden eye snapper) sashimi or Izu Beef, in the comfort of your room. This perk is perfect for travelers with dietary restrictions and for picky dogs who only like to eat their favorite food. Hot plates and gas burners are available for rent.

Additionally, all guest rooms are fitted with wide windows that frame Mt. Omuro, granting you a calming connection to Izu Kogen’s grand outdoors. Solo travelers and couples, as well as larger groups can all find rooms that comfortably suit their needs.

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The pet-friendly rooms mirror the standard ones, while also providing a crate, pee pads, deodorizer, food bowls, and cushioned floors to protect dog’s joints and reduce the risk of injury. Staff thoroughly clean and deodorize the rooms, so even the dog-friendly rooms remain fresh and inviting.

Hot springs for you and your dog

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Nothing says relaxation like soaking in some healing hot spring water. For its spacious public bath, YU-FURI IZUKOGEN sources its water from Akazawa Taishima Onsen, a natural hot spring heated to 38℃ (100.4℉) and known for its skin beautifying effects and neuralgia relief. The bathing area also has a dry sauna where you can enjoy a revitalizing sweat.

Of course, pooches can also look forward to a refreshing bathing experience thanks to the hotel’s “private bath with dogs.” This private hot spring features a specially designed bathtub for dogs right next to your bath, allowing you and your best friend to unwind together in complete privacy. Private baths are also available for guests without dogs. Both require advance reservations.

Various on-site facilities

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YU-FURI IZUKOGEN’s dog-centered offerings don’t stop there. The hotel also has:

• Three dog parks: There is a large dog run, about the size of a tennis court, a scenic dog park with captivating views of Izu’s seven islands (on a clear day), and an indoor playroom for rainy weather. Dogs of all sizes and breeds are welcome, and foot-washing stations are available.
• A heated rooftop dog pool: Open and heated year-round, this pool is a haven for water-loving dogs. After your dog’s playtime, you can use the complimentary dog towels, along with a towel return box. This unique offering is available before check-in, during your stay, and even after check-out, so you and your dog will undoubtedly create everlasting memories.
• A dog sitting service: This paid service provides care for your pet when you visit nearby attractions that do not allow dogs.
• Dog food and pet goods: At YU-FURI IZUKOGEN’s on-site shop, you can browse a variety of food and essential items for your dog, helping you travel light and/or discover new goods.

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Speaking of the shop, it also sells a host of Izu specialties, including gourmet ready-to-eat meals, canned goods, and sweets. Even more, the gourmet corner features handmade frozen bento meals from popular restaurants in Izu Kogen, as well as bread, hot dogs, and hot sandwiches. The frozen meals are available 24 hours a day, so they are perfect for late night munchies or on days that you don’t feel like going out. Savor the authentic Izu flavors in your room alongside your dog. The shop’s 24-hour, self-checkout system also ensures that you can shop for treats and wares anytime.

Practical amenities, such as a laundromat/launderette and a vending machine corner with alcoholic and nonalcoholic drinks, cup noodles, and ice cream, complete the comfortable stay.

Wan Wan Paradise Izukogen: Luxury for everyone

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Encircled by a mild climate and beautiful ocean scenery, Wan Wan Paradise Izukogen offers a rejuvenating getaway for you and your pooch. With its indoor and outdoor amenities, numerous guest room types, authentic Japanese cuisine, and so much more, this accommodation will surely guide you and your companion into vacation mode.

Once you enter the lobby, start your stay with a commemorative photo in the nearby photo booth where both you and your dog are invited to smile wide. One of the hotel’s greatest features is that dogs are permitted in most areas, eliminating separation anxiety. For peace of mind, the facility also has cleaning supplies, such as paper towels, deodorizing spray, and pee pads, stationed throughout the property at places like elevators, corridors, and the entrances to dog parks. Here, relaxation meets comfort.

Numerous guest rooms

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Wan Wan Paradise Izukogen has five different room types—Triple, Twin, Japanese-Western-style, Japanese-style, and Cottages. All of the rooms are dog-friendly and come equipped with a crate, pee pads, deodorizer, and food bowls. Co-sleeping is even allowed as long as your dog wears a diaper, so you and your furry friend can cuddle after a fun day. The pet rooms are thoroughly cleaned and deodorized, so you can expect a fresh, comfortable stay. Some rooms even offer terraces where you can admire sweeping views of Sagami Bay.

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For an especially memorable experience, consider booking a Cottage-style room. These spacious accommodations are akin to small homes, making them ideal for medium to large dogs, big groups, and those looking for homey amenities. Each cottage also features a private natural hot spring bath where you can unwind in your own personal slice of paradise. It is perfect for foreign tourists who may be apprehensive about using a communal bath.

Nature-entwined hot springs

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Set aside a moment for yourself in the accommodation’s revitalizing hot spring baths. Wan Wan Paradise Izukogen has two large public baths—one open-air and one indoor. The facility’s pride is its outdoor bath, nestled in the quiet mountains, fragranced by the seasonal breeze, and touched by greenery. Unwind deeply in the serene setting and treat yourself to ultimate comfort with its outdoor reclining baths.

Please note that the open-air baths are under renovation and are scheduled to reopen on April 1, 2026. Dogs are not allowed in the indoor or outdoor bathing areas.

Local flavors

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The facility’s on-site restaurant, Hana Izumi, brings Izu Kogen’s delectable cuisine to you. For dinner, the restaurant offers numerous traditional Japanese kaiseki meals showcasing delicacies like Japanese Black Beef, spiny lobster, golden-eyed snapper, and fresh sashimi from Sagami Bay. The restaurant is also dog-friendly, offering a dog menu with delicious meals like venison, chicken, tuna, and even Japanese Black Beef. Your dog is welcome to join you at the table by sitting on a chair with a café mat, and you both are guaranteed to salivate over the mouthwatering eats. The Japanese-style breakfast set is prepared using seasonal ingredients from Izu and crafted by an Izu-born chef.

For those staying in a cottage, catering is available. The service includes pre-cut meat and vegetables, as well as rice, allowing you to cook and dine in the comfort of your own home away from home.

Breakfast is also available in the form of a kaiseki-style bento box, which features the same Japanese set meal that hotel guests enjoy.

On-site offerings

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Wan Wan Paradise Izukogen has numerous pet-friendly amenities:

• Three dog runs: The facility has one artificial turf, one natural grass, and one indoor dog run. The areas are separated by dog size and breed, so all dogs can play safely.
• A self-grooming room: This paid, advance-reservation room is an excellent place to freshen up your dog after an exciting day.
• A professional photo studio: Located on the second floor, this studio, with an on-site professional photographer, helps you capture special moments with your pets, including family photos.
• A dog sitting service: This paid boarding service is available when you go out for events or sightseeing.

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The accommodation also houses a shop that sells a selection of dog food and pet goods, as well as local souvenirs.

Nearby sightseeing and activities

Located just a five-minute drive from each other, these two accommodations are surrounded by Izu scenic spots, attractions, and experiences that both people and dogs can enjoy. All of the below destinations are dog-friendly.

Nature

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Izu Kogen is blessed with breathtaking nature. Let’s start with Jogasaki Coast, one of the region’s most iconic landscapes. Formed roughly 4,000 years ago when lava from Mt. Omuro hardened in the sea, this dramatic coastline features rugged cliffs interspersed with plant life and sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean. The composition of stone and greenery against blue skies and water make for an awe-inspiring sight, and your dog will love the fresh air and exercise.

Kadowaki Suspension Bridge, a symbol of the coast, grants mesmerizing views of the scenery. The walk rests 23 meters above sea level and provides a thrilling experience for you and your canine. Follow the coast southwest, and you will come across Tajima Waterfall, a rare waterfall that flows directly into the ocean. From the observation deck, you can witness incredible views of the horizon.

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Another prominent site is Mount Omuro, Izu about a 15-minute drive from Jogasaki Coast (near Kadowaki Suspension Bridge). Formed approximately 4,000 years ago and designated as a UNESCO Global Geopark site, this mountain is characterized by its beautiful bowl-shaped silhouette. From its summit, you can see stunning nature and urban views, as well as Mount Fuji on clear days! The top is also home to Asama Shrine, Mt. Omuro souvenirs, wasabi ice cream, and even archery experiences. To reach the summit, simply ride a six-minute-long chair lift. Dogs under 45 centimeters tall can ride the lift too. Just be sure to hold onto your dog tightly.

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At the base of the mountain, Sakura no Sato cherry blossoms invite you to experience Japan’s cherry blossom season at its best. Recognized as one of Japan’s top 100 cherry blossom spots, this park has roughly 1,000 cherry trees and 40 varieties. The wide range of species allow you and your dog to enjoy cherry blossoms almost year-round. The seasons also color the park in a multitude of flowers. If you are an avid cherry blossom fanatic and are visiting the area in early February, consider driving about 40 minutes (from the hotels) to Kawazu, a town renowned for its early blooming cherry blossoms.

If you are hoping for more panoramic views, head over to Komuroyama Ridge Walk MISORA, a 166-meter-long wooden skywalk that provides you 360-degree vistas of Sagami Bay, the Izu Islands, the Amagi Mountains, and even Mount Fuji on clear days. The area also sports an underground-style cafe (Café 321) and Komuro Shrine, popular for its cherry blossom-themed ema (wooden tablets for writing wishes or expressing gratitude) and English omikuji (paper fortunes).

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About a 10-minute drive southwest from the skywalk is Lake Ippeki, considered the “Eye of Izu.” This scenic crater lake formed roughly 100,000 years ago and serves as a scenic getaway where you can admire reflections of the encircling mountains and seasonal scenery in its gentle waters. Dogs and humans alike can enjoy walking trails, fishing, and boating.

For nature excursions mixed with modern comforts, we recommend Jogasaki Orange Village and Aiken no Eki. The former is a delicious place where you can enjoy mandarin orange picking and authentic barbeque in an urban farm setting, while the latter is a dog-themed park complete with cafes, lunch spots, souvenir shops, dog runs (indoor and outdoor), and a relaxing dog terrace.

Culture and crafts

In addition to its rich environment, Izu Kogen is also home to numerous cultural destinations and crafty workshops where you can let your inner artist shine. Let’s begin with Jingi Shrine, a must-visit destination for dogs and people alike. This attractive shrine encircled by trees is famous as a place where people pray for pet health. Dogs are even allowed to enter—a rarity in Japan. The shrine also offers dog-themed ema and pet omamori (amulets/good luck charms), creating a cultural experience deeply intertwined with your pet.

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About three minutes away on foot from YU-FURI IZUKOGEN, Izu Craft House is your gateway to artistic exploration, and one of its most popular offerings is its glassblowing experience. Under the guidance of a skilled craftsman, you can blow, shape, and heat glass, forming it into a predetermined item with the color and pattern of your choosing. English instructional sheets are available, and the facility will ship your finished piece four to five days after your visit (only domestic shipping is available). Additionally, the facility also offers sandblasting, glass bead-making, and pottery painting workshops. The engaging experiences are suitable for most ages, and dogs can enter if they are kept in a carrier or pet cart—so the whole family can join in on the fun.

If the Izu Craft House sparked your creativity, visit Pinokio Studio and Hachimanogama Pottery Studio as well. Approximately a five minutes’ drive from Izu Craft House, Pinokio Studio (ぴのきお工房) is a unique facility where you can order a realistic, palm-sized figurine of your dog. The sculpture is handcrafted by clay artist Aya Kinoshita, and thus, can take two to three months to complete. However, at the end, you will be left with a stunning keepsake of your furry companion. Then, you can get your hands dirty at Hachimanogama Pottery Studio (陶芸体験 八幡野窯), where you can try an electric wheel or hand-building pottery experience without a reservation.

Up north, about 20 minutes by car from the hotels, is the Roadside Station Ito Marine Town, a seaside complex where you can enjoy restaurants, shops, an ocean-view hot spring, footbaths, and a marina. Dogs are allowed, making it a great place to explore Izu Kogen’s flavors, souvenirs, and vibes together.

Izu Kogen eats

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Thanks to its deep connection to both land and sea, Izu Kogen is ripe with fresh agricultural produce and seafood. Listed below are some local delicacies you will not want to miss.

• Izu Beef: This premium brand of wagyu is only produced in Izunokuni, Shizuoka Prefecture. The meat is characterized by its deep umami and melt-in-your-mouth tenderness.
• Kinmedai (Golden eye snapper): This renowned fish in Japan is prized for its mild yet umami-rich flavor and delicate tenderness. It is often sourced from Shimoda Port in Izu, which is one of Japan’s top landing ports. You can enjoy it simmered, as sashimi, or in a hot pot.
• Negomeshi (Fisherman’s rice bowl): This local specialty from Ito features chopped tuna or bonito, green onions, and ginger served over rice. When you are about halfway done, pour miso-flavored broth over the dish and finish it as ochazuke (a dish in which tea or broth is poured over a rice bowl).
• Wasabi, Izu: Izu is Japan’s leading wasabi-producing region. So, it only makes sense to try its various wasabi eats, including wasabi pickles, wasabi rice bowls, and even wasabi ice cream.
• Guricha: This unique green tea grown in Izu has a low bitterness, mellow sweetness, and refreshing aroma.
• New Summer Orange: This local citrus fruit is known for its bright, refreshing tartness. Typically harvested in early summer, you can enjoy it fresh or in products like marmalade and juice.

Tips for traveling safely with pets

A trip with your pooch is sounding pretty amazing, right? To ensure that the entire journey is stress-free for both you and your dog, we have outlined some important notes for public transportation and plane travel, as well as general safety practices.

Buses and trains

• Mandatory carrier use: Pets must be placed in a carrier bag, crate, or backpack that fully covers their body (including head and limbs).
• Size and weight limits: For JR East and other rail companies, the total dimensions of a carrier must generally be within 120 cm, and the combined weight of the carrier and pet must not exceed 10 kg.
• Hand luggage ticket required: A “hand luggage ticket” must be purchased at the ticket gate.
• Pet strollers: Pets cannot remain in their strollers during the ride. The stroller must be separated, and only the carrier portion may be brought onboard if it meets regulations.

Transportation type

• Trains and Shinkansen: Large dogs that do not meet size regulations are not permitted to board. If a pet causes disturbance to other passengers (i.e., prolonged barking), boarding may be refused.
• Buses: While permitted under Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism regulations, pets must be fully enclosed in a carrier out of consideration for passengers who may be uncomfortable around dogs.
• Taxis: In principle, only small pets are allowed, and only with the driver’s consent. It is recommended to confirm in advance.

Air travel policies for domestic flights

• Handling method: In principle, pets must be checked in as baggage and transported in the cargo hold.
• Crate requirements: Only sturdy plastic or metal crates are permitted. Soft carriers are not allowed (some airlines offer rental crates).
• Conditions for transport:
  • Pets must be in good health (those with poor appetite, heart conditions, or respiratory illnesses are not permitted).
  • Brachycephalic breeds (e.i., bulldogs) may face restrictions or bans during summer months.
  • Pets under four months old or those that are pregnant are not permitted.
• Procedures & important notes:
  • Arrive at the baggage counter at least 30 minutes before departure to sign a consent form and pay the pet fee.
  • To reduce stress on the pet, a pre-flight health check by a veterinarian is recommended.
  • Low-cost carriers (LCCs), such as Peach, do not allow pets onboard.

Manners and safety at accommodations and tourist spots

• Toilet training: Make sure your pet is properly toilet-trained in advance to avoid accidents at your accommodation.
• Prevent getting lost or accidental ingestion: Do not take your eyes off your dog in unfamiliar places. Be cautious of scavenging or picking up food from the ground.
• Noise and barking: If your dog tends to bark, ensure proper training and adjust the environment as needed.
• What to bring: Bring your pet’s usual food, as well as familiar items such as their leash and mat.

Izu Kogen: An adventure for you and your best friend

Izu Kogen, or should we say “Inu Kogen,” is a destination where people and facilities treat dogs like one of the family. With its accommodating hotels, outdoor attractions, and dog-friendly experiences, Izu Kogen is a haven where you and your furry friend can create joyful memories, relax, and explore side by side.

In Izu Kogen, smiles are wide and tails are wagging.

Access to the hotels

Both hotels are located in Ito, Shizuoka Prefecture. From Tokyo, the easiest and most direct way to reach Izu Kogen Station is via the Odoriko Limited Express train. Taking roughly two hours and 15 minutes, this scenic train follows Sagami Bay’s coastline and grants you impressive ocean views, and from February to March you can even see cherry blossoms. For the utmost comfort, consider booking a seat in the Premium Green Car.

From Izu Kogen Station, you can catch a free shuttle bus to both hotels, which departs at 2:50pm daily. It will arrive at YU-FURI IZUKOGEN at 3pm and Wan Wan Paradise Izukogen at 3:05pm. Please note that you must make a reservation in advance for the shuttle.

If you choose to travel by rental car, both hotels also offer free parking.

Instead, the best time to go to Japan depends on what you want to see and do. From cherry blossoms in spring to vibrant festivals in summer, fiery foliage in fall, and powder snow in winter, Japan offers something unique year-round.

This guide breaks down the best time of year to visit Japan, season by season, helping you decide the best month to visit Japan based on your interests, budget, and tolerance for crowds.

When is the best time to visit Japan?

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If we’re going by popular opinion, the best time to visit Japan is typically during spring (March to May) and fall (September to November). These seasons offer mild temperatures, stunning natural scenery, and some of the country’s most iconic experiences.

Spring is famous for cherry blossoms, while fall delivers brilliant autumn foliage. Both seasons are visually spectacular and ideal for sightseeing, no matter where you’re planning to go.

However, each season has trade-offs:

• Spring: Beautiful, but crowded and expensive
• Summer: Festival-rich, but hot and humid
• Fall: Comfortable and colorful with fewer crowds than spring, but getting chilly
• Winter: Quiet, affordable, and ideal for snow sports, but cold

When is the best time to visit Tokyo?

If you're wondering about the best time to visit Tokyo, spring and fall are particularly appealing due to pleasant weather and walkable conditions.

However, winter can also be a magical time to be in Tokyo, blessed with an abundance of illuminations and Christmas markets.

Spring in Japan: Weather, Events & Cherry Blossoms

Spring weather in Japan

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Spring temperatures typically range from 45°F to 70°F (7°C to 21°C) (45°F to 70°F)*, depending on the month and region.

• March: Cool, early blooms in southern regions
• April: Peak cherry blossom season in central Japan
• May: Warm and sunny, ideal for outdoor exploration

*Please note that these average temperatures are based on the central Honshu Island. Areas further south or north of Japan may see more extreme highs and lows.

Average temperature in Tokyo in spring

What to wear during spring in Japan

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Light layers are key. Bring a jacket or sweater for cooler mornings and evenings, especially in March and early April.

What to do during spring in Japan

Spring is widely considered the best time of year to visit Japan. The country awakens with blooming flowers, comfortable temperatures, and a festive atmosphere centered around cherry blossom viewing (hanami).

Hanami: Cherry blossom-viewing picnics

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Hanami is one of Japan’s most iconic annual traditions. Locals gather in parks with friends, family, and coworkers to enjoy picnics beneath blooming sakura trees. In major cities like Tokyo and Osaka, parks stay lively well into the evening with illuminated blossoms (yozakura).

Fuji Shibazakura Festival

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Taking place near Mount Fuji, the Fuji Shibazakura Festival showcases fields of pink moss phlox flowers with the famous mountain as a backdrop. It’s a lesser-known, but incredibly photogenic, alternative to cherry blossoms.

Takayama Spring Festival

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Held in Hida-Takayama, the Takayama Spring Festival features elaborately decorated floats (yatai), some dating back centuries. Karakuri puppet performances and lantern-lit parades make it one of Japan’s most visually stunning spring events.

When to see cherry blossoms in Japan?

Cherry blossom timing varies by region, but generally:

• Late March: Tokyo, Kyoto
• Early April: Peak bloom in central Japan
• Late April to May: Northern regions like Hokkaido

Ueno Park (Tokyo)

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Ueno Park is one of the most famous hanami spots in Japan, with over 1,000 cherry trees. Expect a lively, festival-like atmosphere with food vendors and crowds.

Philosopher’s Path (Kyoto)

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Philosopher’s Path in Kyoto is a tranquil stone path following a canal lined with hundreds of cherry trees. Ideal for a quieter, more reflective experience.

Hirosaki Castle (Aomori)

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Hirosaki Castle in Aomori Prefecture is widely considered one of Japan’s most beautiful cherry blossom locations, with petals covering the castle moat like a pink carpet.

Find out more: Best Places to See Cherry Blossoms in Japan

Popular spring foods in Japan

Sakura mochi

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A delicate pink rice cake filled with sweet red bean paste and wrapped in a salted cherry leaf—symbolizing the flavors of spring.

Bamboo shoots (Takenoko)

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Fresh bamboo shoots are harvested in spring and used in rice dishes, soups, and simmered recipes.

Spring tempura

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Seasonal vegetables like fukinoto (butterbur buds) and wild mountain greens are lightly battered and fried.

Your Guide to Spring in Japan

Spring is ideal for first-time visitors looking for memorably pastel-pink experiences. While crowds can be intense, the beauty of the season is unmatched.

Planning ahead—especially for accommodations—is essential.

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Summer in Japan: Weather, Events & Staying Cool

Summer in Japan is vibrant, energetic, and festival-filled—but also hot and humid.

Summer weather in Japan

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Temperatures range from 75°F to 95°F (24°C to 35°C)* with high humidity.

• June: Rainy season begins
• July: Hot and humid
• August: Peak heat

*Please note that these average temperatures are based on the central Honshu Island. Areas further south or north of Japan may see more extreme highs and lows.

Average temperature in Tokyo in summer

What to wear during summer in Japan

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Lightweight, breathable clothing is essential. Consider moisture-wicking fabrics.

Pro tip: Get a UV-reflecting umbrella to keep your temperature down.

What to do during summer in Japan

Summer is festival season in Japan, offering some of the most energetic and colorful cultural experiences.

Gion Matsuri (Kyoto)

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Gion Matsuri is held throughout July in Kyoto, this is one of Japan’s most famous festivals. Towering floats parade through the streets, accompanied by traditional music and yukata-clad crowds.

Sumida River Fireworks Festival (Tokyo)

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Taking place in Tokyo, Sumida River Fireworks Festival is one of Japan’s largest fireworks displays, with over 20,000 fireworks lighting up the summer sky.

Obon Festival

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An annual Buddhist event adopted by many to honor the spirits of ancestors as they temporarily return to the world of the living. During this time, there are Bon Odori dances and lantern-lighting events to guide spirits back to the other side.

Tips for staying cool during summer in Japan

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• Stay hydrated and carry water
• Use cooling towels or handheld fans
• Take breaks in air-conditioned spaces—department stores are perfect for this!
• Explore early mornings or evenings, avoiding peak daylight hours

Popular summer foods in Japan

Soba noodles

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Often served chilled with dipping sauce (zaru soba), making them perfect for hot weather.

Or try nagashi somen: Nagashi somen refers to the “flowing” thin noodles sent down a bamboo chute with ice-cold water, to be caught with chopsticks. This particular noodle dish is especially popular during the summer months, where any refreshing dish is welcomed with open arms.

Kakigori (shaved ice)

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A shaved ice dessert topped with fruit syrups, matcha, or condensed milk—Japan’s answer to beating the heat and enjoying something sweet at the same time.

Unagi (grilled eel)

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Grilled eel is traditionally eaten during summer for stamina, especially on the Day of the Ox. Smothered in a sweet-savory, sticky sauce and laid on a bed of rice, this dish will have you overcoming summer fatigue in no time.

Find out more: Japanese Eels: Your Guide to Unagi & Anago

Recommended restaurant: Asakusa GYUUNA Yadoki

Your Guide to Summer in Japan

Despite the heat, summer is one of the best times to experience Japan’s cultural festivals and nightlife. If you can handle the humidity, it promises to be a lively and memorable season.

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Fall in Japan: Weather, Events & Fall Leaves

Fall rivals spring as the best time to visit Japan, offering cooler weather and stunning autumn colors, with slightly fewer crowds.

Fall weather in Japan

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Temperatures range from 50°F to 75°F (10°C to 24°C)*.

• September: Warm, with occasional typhoons
• October: Mild and comfortable
• November: Crisp and cool

*Please note that these average temperatures are based on the central Honshu Island. Areas further south or north of Japan may see more extreme highs and lows.

Average temperature in Tokyo in fall

What to wear during autumn in Japan

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Layered clothing works best, with a light jacket for cooler days.

What to do during fall in Japan

Fall combines cultural events with some of the most breathtaking natural scenery in Japan.

Jidai Matsuri (Kyoto)

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A historical parade in Kyoto featuring participants dressed in costumes representing different eras of Japanese history.

Tokyo International Film Festival

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Held in Tokyo, the Tokyo International Film Festival is a major cultural event that showcases films from around the world.

Chase the fall foliage across Japan

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Temples and gardens across Japan host nighttime illuminations, enhancing the beauty of fall foliage.

When to see fall foliage in Japan?

Foliage timing varies:

• October: Northern Japan
• November: Tokyo, Kyoto
• Early December: Southern regions

Fall foliage (koyo) moves gradually from north to south—the opposite of cherry blossom season!

Arashiyama (Kyoto)

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Arashiyama is a scenic district known for its bamboo grove and vibrant autumn colors along the river.

Nikko National Park

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Nikko National Park is a UNESCO-listed area with waterfalls, mountains, and stunning fall colors.

Mount Takao (Tokyo)

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Mount Takao is a popular hiking destination just outside Tokyo, offering panoramic autumn views within a Tokyo day trip.

Popular autumn foods in Japan

Matsutake mushrooms

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Rare and highly prized, often grilled or served in rice dishes.

Sweet potatoes

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Roasted and sold from street vendors—warm, sweet, and comforting.

Chestnuts

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Chestnuts (kuri) are a beloved symbol of autumn in Japan, in season between September and October. They’re served in both sweet and savory dishes, from roasted chestnuts (yakiguri) to mont blanc cakes and chestnut rice (kuri-gohan).

Your Guide to Autumn in Japan

Fall is perfect for travelers seeking fewer crowds and comfortable weather. It’s an excellent alternative to spring, especially for repeat visitors.

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Winter in Japan: Weather, Events & Snow

Winter offers a completely different perspective on Japan, from snowy landscapes to cozy hot springs.

Winter weather in Japan

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Temperatures range from 30°F to 50°F (-1°C to 10°C)*.

• Northern Japan: Heavy snowfall
• Central cities: Cold, but manageable
• Southern areas: Mild

*Please note that these average temperatures are based on the central Honshu Island. Areas further south or north of Japan may see more extreme highs and lows.

Average temperature in Tokyo in winter

What to wear during winter in Japan

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Warm layers, including a coat, gloves, and scarf.

What to do during winter in Japan

Winter in Japan offers a mix of cultural traditions, snowy landscapes, and unique wildlife experiences.

Sapporo Snow Festival

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The Sapporo Snow Festival is held in Sapporo, this world-famous event features massive snow and ice sculptures.

New Year Celebrations

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Japan’s most important holiday, marked by temple visits, traditional foods, and family gatherings. If you’re up to the challenge, it’s also a tradition for many to watch the first sunrise of the new year!

Winter sports

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Japan offers some of the best powder snow in the world, with unbeatable slopes in Niseko (Hokkaido) and Hakuba (Nagano).

Warming hot springs

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Japanese hot springs are wonderful all year round, but there’s something truly magical about escaping the winter cold with an onsen soak. It’s even better if you can experience yukimi-buro—relaxing in outdoor baths while surrounded by snow.

Where to see snow in Japan?

Niseko (Hokkaido)

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A world-renowned ski destination famous for its light, powdery snow.

Shirakawa-go (Hida)

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Shirakawa-go is a UNESCO World Heritage village known for its traditional thatched-roof houses blanketed in snow.

Jigokudani Monkey Park (Nagano)

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Jigokudani Monkey Park is famous for wild monkeys bathing in natural hot springs surrounded by snow.

Popular winter foods in Japan

Ramen

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Hot, hearty noodle soups that vary by region—perfect for cold weather.

Nabe (hot pot)

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These communal dishes, like sukiyaki or shabu-shabu, often contain a range of seasonal vegetables, thinly sliced meats, seafood, and noodles. They are commonly cooked at the table and enjoyed between a group of people.

Oden

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A comforting stew of fish cakes, daikon radish, and eggs simmered in broth, commonly found in convenience stores.

Your Guide to Winter in Japan

Winter is ideal for budget travelers and snow enthusiasts. It’s also one of the least crowded times to visit Japan, offering a more relaxed experience.

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When is the best month to visit Japan?

January

Cold, but peaceful, January offers fewer crowds and excellent conditions for skiing. New Year traditions provide cultural insight.

February

One of the cheapest months to visit Japan. Snow festivals and winter scenery make it appealing, especially in northern regions.

March

A transitional month with early cherry blossoms and warming temperatures. Great for avoiding peak crowds.

April

The best month to visit Japan for cherry blossoms—but also the busiest and most expensive.

May

Warm and pleasant, though Golden Week brings heavy domestic travel early in the month.

June

The rainy season begins. Fewer tourists and lower prices, but outdoor plans may be affected.

July

Hot and humid, but filled with festivals and fireworks displays.

August

Peak summer heat. Best for festivals, but can be uncomfortable for sightseeing.

September

Cooling temperatures and fewer crowds. Some risk of typhoons.

October

One of the best months to visit Japan for comfortable weather and early fall colors.

November

Arguably the best overall month if you don’t mind missing the cherry blossoms—great weather, stunning foliage, and fewer crowds.

December

A festive time with winter illuminations and fewer tourists before the New Year rush.

Found your best time to visit Japan?

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The best time to visit Japan ultimately depends on your travel goals. For iconic scenery and mild weather, spring and fall are unbeatable. For festivals and energy, summer shines. And for snow, savings, and serenity, winter offers a unique charm.

Whether you're planning your first visit or returning to explore more, understanding Japan’s seasonal rhythm will help you make the most of your trip.

Best time to go to Japan: FAQs

What are the best months to visit Japan?

The best months to visit Japan are:

• March to May (spring) for cherry blossoms
• September to November (autumn) for fall foliage, offering mild, comfortable weather.

Spring is vibrant but crowded; autumn is equally beautiful with cooler temperatures.

What is the cheapest month to go to Japan?

The cheapest time to visit Japan is usually from mid-January to February and June. During this time, more extreme weather means fewer crowds and lower prices for flights and accommodations.

What month is Japan most expensive?

From April 29 to May 5, Japan celebrates Golden Week, a collection of four national holidays. May is the most expensive month to visit Japan due to the massive internal travel during this time, making it the peak season in Japan for domestic tourism.

What are the least crowded months to visit Japan?

The best months to visit Japan to avoid crowds are January, February, and mid-May to early June. Late September and early October are also quiet, offering pleasant weather with fewer tourists.

Everyday life, of course, includes the need to eat well. And even though many places in Japan aren’t known for catering to vegans, Fukuoka has been increasingly accommodating for folks particular about avoiding animal products, negotiating food allergies, or requiring halal foods. And even at establishments with broader menus, there is a strong culture of promoting healthy, locally produced ingredients using sustainable and environmentally friendly techniques. Combined with great care and seriousness concerning service and food quality even at inexpensive establishments, Fukuoka makes for an exceptional foodie destination.

But before we sit down to eat, let’s explore some of the city’s natural attractions to work up an appetite.

Islands of Natural Urban Color

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If a whiff of the city’s fresh air and quiet outdoor charms piques your interest, here are three inexpensive or free natural realms the locals enjoy.

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Fukuoka Castle Ruins

West of Hakata and near the central area of Tenjin lies the sprawling grounds of the castle remains in what is now known as Maizuru Park. Explore the old stone walls and moats, and stroll through the gardens, gates, and turrets before enjoying the panoramic views of downtown from the highest levels of the complex. Marking the beginning of spring, the cherry blossoms bloom within the walls and make for the city’s number one place to picnic and enjoy the sakura season.

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Along the outer castle walls, walk along the moat toward Tenjin under the shade trees for a glimpse of local waterfowl and the lotus that bloom in summer. Crossing the bridge back into the park, you’ll find the site where a guest facility once stood to receive foreign envoys in the 7th century.

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Adjacent to west of the castle lies Ohori Park, containing a lake with walking and jogging paths, a wild bird forest, playgrounds, a Noh theater, the Fukuoka City Art Museum, paddleboat rentals, and a very special Japanese garden.

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Ohori Park Japanese Garden

This relatively new garden, dating from 1982, is a creation of Kinsaku Nakane, a master designer also known for the Adachi Museum of Art in Shimane. Organized to perfection, this island environment features sculpted trees and shrubs, tiny bridges, stone lanterns, precisely arranged rocks, and a dry landscape garden. A green space even in winter, visit any time of year for a bit of urban serenity.

Amble along a meandering stream that connects quiet ponds and soak in the sounds of the gentle waterfalls. Breathe in the fresh air of the pines, oaks, maples, and camphor trees dwelling here. Depending on the season, you might also see blooming azaleas, camellias, plum blossoms, or Japanese andromeda.

There’s even a teahouse that blends in harmoniously with the garden. It hosts traditional ceremonies and events.

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Kashii Shrine

Another treasure of the city, found on the east side at the foot of Mt. Tachibana, lies a short taxi ride or 15-minute walk from Kashii Station. The tree-lined road from the station passes through a huge torii (gate) leading to the magnificent Kashii Shrine and its expansive surroundings.

This high-ranking shrine hosts the deities Emperor Chuai and Empress Jingu and holds an imperial festival once every decade. You can easily spend an hour or two strolling the grounds and admiring the architecture, history, and scenery.

Enter through the magnificent main gate to see this ancient shrine’s uniquely styled and culturally significant main hall, rebuilt in 1801. Many small shrines surround it, and a giant Japanese cedar tree, known as the Ayasugi, dominates the courtyard. Its bark has a mysterious aya-style pattern that makes it a symbol of national protection. In the outer reaches, you can hike along a forest path and visit the Spring of Immortality.

Near the entrance and free parking lot, there’s a picturesque pond that’s home to ducks, turtles, and colorful carp you can feed. In June, 5,000 irises bloom here, and the shrine hosts events throughout the year, such one in October with Japanese archery, and the 7-5-3 Festival among the fall colors in November, in addition to weddings and rituals.

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Vegan Dining

After working up an appetite soaking in the city, here are three suggestions from among Fukuoka’s culinary delights that serve outstanding vegan meals: brunch in a quiet downtown art space, a gourmet café for lunch, and a classy evening getaway.

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RILL BAGEL

A popular destination in the lively central area of Nakasu, the Kawabata shopping arcade connects the subway station with Kushida Shrine (the base for the Yamakasa festival) and the Canal City mall. Just outside the arcade, there’s a renovated apartment complex full of art shops.

On the first floor, you’ll find the quiet dining room of RILL BAGEL, tastefully and simply decorated with timeworn wooden tables and dried flowers. All bagels are made right here from scratch with wheat sourced in Kyushu, known for its distinctive texture perfect for noodles and bagels, delicious and soft, with just the right amount of chewy goodness. Among the variety of bagel sandwiches, their vegan option is the peanut-butter and banana bagel, superb with their fine coffee.

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Rota Café

This all-vegan café near Yakuin Station uses locally sourced health-conscious ingredients to make everything on their menu from scratch without dairy or any animal products. They also serve nutritious brown rice, or genmai, grown without pesticides or synthetic chemical fertilizers. Rota Café’s homemade dishes are of such high-quality that people trying vegan food for the first time will be impressed.

Their Special Plate is a colorful delight of brown rice, seasonal vegetables, homemade pickles, rotating side dishes, and miso soup. Other meals include veggie burgers, veggie ramen, Bolognese pasta with soy meat, and fresh homemade bread with soup.

For drinks, choose from fine coffee and teas, homemade amazake shakes and smoothies, or domestic apple and other juices. Delicious desserts include tofu cheesecake, banana chocolate cake, soy soft-serve ice cream, and muffins.

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IMURI

IMURI is a stylish option near the Fukuoka Zoo and Botanical Garden. This dining complex serving western and Japanese cuisine has classy rooms, picturesque views of downtown, a large terrace dining space, an exclusive outdoor balcony table, a jazzy bar, and a vegan grill in the evenings.

Sitting at the bar along the open kitchen, you point to your choice among a daily assortment of attractive and delicious vegetables that IMURI’s chef will prepare right before your eyes. Watch each upcoming dish in anticipation as the flavors float on air from the sizzling grill or as they steam in bamboo baskets. Every choice is delicious and pleasingly presented.

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More to Explore

These are just a few of the out-of-doors attractions and vegan-friendly restaurants worth visiting. Fukuoka adapts quickly with the times, and new options spring up every year. Which will you choose for your gourmet gallop through Kyushu’s capital city?

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The hotel's design extends well beyond the rooms, with Naminami Terrace in particular being a star of the show in its own right. With its wave-like lawn and relaxed seating, it's a spot where visitors can appreciate a front-row view of the strait. Children can enjoy Fugu Beach, a sandy play area featuring a “fluffy dome” and pufferfish-inspired décor, while the all-weather Fugu Pool invites the whole family to splash and play.

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Dining at RISONARE Shimonoseki reflects both creativity and local flavors. OTTO SETTE SHIMONOSEKI serves a full Italian course featuring fugu, highlighting its textures and subtle flavor, while PUKU PUKU buffet offers a mix of local favorites, from fried fugu to Kawara Soba for breakfast, ensuring guests can savor Shimonoseki's culinary culture throughout their stay.

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Guests can also engage with the strait through hands-on activities, including boat rides introducing its waters and history, bingo games that turn the scenery into fun challenges, and art workshops using seashells and upcycled materials. Evening lectures on the Kaikyokan Aquarium, home to the world's largest collection of pufferfish species, add a touch of learning to the stay.

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RISONARE Shimonoseki's combination of thoughtful design, immersive activities, and local gastronomy has also earned it global recognition. This year, TIME magazine named it one of the world's greatest places to stay, highlighting it as a must-visit destination for travelers seeking both comfort and a sense of place.

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Over the decades, Yakult has grown into a global brand, but its cultural roots remain firmly planted in Japan. That connection has evolved into a range of experiences here that go beyond the bottle, from factory tours that reveal the science behind the drink to themed cafés and even beauty-focused facilities.

If you're curious about diving deeper into this uniquely Japanese phenomenon, here are several Yakult-themed destinations worth exploring.

Yakult Honsha Shonan Cosmetics Factory

Located along the scenic Shonan coast in Kanagawa, the Yakult Honsha Shonan Cosmetics Factory offers a unique behind-the-scenes look at how beauty and science come together. Designed as a 90-minute, five-senses experience, guided tours include a walk through the production line, hands-on cosmetic testing, and even a taste of Yakult's signature ingredients. Open on weekdays with advance reservations required, tours are conducted in Japanese and cater to visitors aged 13 and up.

If you can't visit in person, an interactive virtual tour is also available, letting you explore a seaside-inspired digital world and learn about lactic acid bacteria from anywhere.

2-5-10 Kugenuma Shinmei, Fujisawa City, Kanagawa Prefecture 251-0021. Online bookings can be made here.

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Yakult Cafe & Gallery

Set beside Utsunomiya Castle Ruins Park, the Yakult Cafe & Gallery is a stylish, light-filled space that blends modern design with nods to the area's castle heritage. Opened in 2023, the café pairs Yakult-inspired treats like creamy desserts, smoothies, and inventive light meals with a calm atmosphere.

Seasonal menus add extra appeal, especially in spring when cherry blossom-themed sweets and drinks arrive just as the neighbouring park bursts into bloom. It's an ideal stop after a stroll under the sakura, whether you're lingering over lunch or grabbing takeaway. Upstairs, a beauty salon also offers a chance to experience Yakult's skincare line firsthand.

1-43 Honmaru-cho, Utsunomiya, Tochigi Prefecture 320-0817

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Yakult Yuino Mori Mori no Cafe

Located in the innovative "Yuino Mori" smart city promoted by Utsunomiya, Yakult Yuino Mori Mori no Cafe opened in June 2024 as a botanical-inspired café. Right next to Yuino Mori Higashi Station on the Utsunomiya Light Rail, it offers Italian-style meals and Yakult-based treats which can be enjoyed while watching streetcars go by.

Highlights include a salad bar with locally sourced vegetables, pasta, pizza, and curry, the latter of which is often served with a fun rice arrangement. Desserts like the exclusive "Ice Cream de Yakult" add a sweet touch. Upstairs, MORI no Lounge hosts private events, and Yakult Beautiens offers facial treatments with Yakult cosmetics, blending food, wellness, and modern charm in one visit.

5 Chome-15-5 Yuinomori, Utsunomiya, Tochigi Prefecture 321-3226

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Yakult Factories

Japan is home to numerous Yakult factories, spread across the country to bring the iconic probiotic drink and related products to local communities. Many of these factories offer free tours, giving visitors a chance to discover the secrets behind Yakult's delicious taste and health benefits while having fun.

Tours often include a look at the production lines, hands-on experiences, and tastings, making them both educational and enjoyable. For those planning a visit, a full lineup of factories and details on each location can be found on Yakult's official site.

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From steaming bowls of ramen to lively evenings spent hopping between yatai Japanese street food stands, this city is a dream for anyone curious about authentic Fukuoka food.

In this guide, we’ll explore the best food Fukuoka has to offer, alongside must-visit attractions that make the city unforgettable.

But first… What exactly are yatai?

What are yatai?

Yatai (屋台) literally means “shop stand” or “stall” in Japanese. These small, often mobile food stands are a beloved example of the lively food stalls that Japan is known for. Typically set up along sidewalks or riversides in the evening, yatai serve ramen, yakitori grilled chicken, gyoza, and other comforting classics.

Fukuoka’s yatai culture dates back to the post–World War II period, when open-air stalls flourished as an affordable way to serve hot meals. Over time, they became woven into the city’s identity. Today, around 100 yatai food stalls operate across areas like Nakasu and Tenjin, drawing both locals and visitors eager to experience true Fukuoka food in its most social form.

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Pull up a stool, order a drink, and chat with the chef or the person next to you—that’s the magic of yatai.

Dive into Fukuoka’s yatai culture and even follow this Fukuoka Hakata Yatai map to experience the best food stalls in the city:

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Nine must-try Fukuoka foods

Below are nine local specialties that define the best food Fukuoka proudly serves.

1. Hakata Ramen

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Hakata ramen is the undisputed star of Fukuoka food. Originating in the Hakata district, this iconic bowl features a creamy, slow-simmered tonkotsu (pork bone) broth that’s rich, milky, and deeply savory. The noodles are thin and firm, designed to soak up the flavorful soup without becoming heavy.

Whether enjoyed at a dedicated ramen shop or at one of the lively yatai food stalls, it’s easily one of the best food Fukuoka experiences you can have.

2. Mentaiko

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Mentaiko—marinated spicy cod roe—is a beloved local specialty and a staple of Fukuoka food culture. Introduced in the mid-20th century and perfected in Hakata, it’s typically seasoned with a chili and soy-based marinade for a salty, umami-packed bite.

It’s served simply over hot rice, stuffed into onigiri rice balls, blended into creamy pasta, or even used as a topping for baguettes. Many visitors consider it a “must buy” souvenir, beautifully packaged and easy to transport. Its bold flavor captures Fukuoka’s love of seafood and makes it one of the most recognizable tastes of the region.

3. Motsunabe

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Motsunabe is a hearty hot pot made with beef or pork offal simmered with cabbage, garlic chives, tofu, and chili in a soy- or miso-based broth. Originally considered an affordable postwar dish, it has evolved into one of Fukuoka’s best comfort meals.

The broth becomes richer as it cooks, absorbing the sweetness of cabbage and the savory depth of the meat. It’s typically shared at the table, making it a social dining experience — perfect after an evening spent exploring the food stalls Japan is famous for.

4. Mizutaki

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Mizutaki offers a lighter, more refined hot pot experience. This dish features high-quality chicken gently simmered in water to create a clean, delicate broth. Vegetables are added gradually, and the ingredients are often dipped in citrusy ponzu sauce before eating.

Unlike the bold intensity of Hakata ramen, mizutaki highlights subtle, natural flavors. It reflects another side of Fukuoka food—one rooted in technique, balance, and high-quality, yet subtle ingredients.

5. Goma-saba

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Goma-saba sesame mackerel is a simple yet unforgettable seafood dish made from fresh mackerel dressed in a soy sauce and sesame mixture. Because mackerel spoils quickly, it’s rarely served raw outside coastal areas—making it a true local specialty.

Fukuoka’s proximity to rich fishing grounds ensures exceptional freshness. The nutty sesame sauce enhances the natural sweetness of the fish. Often enjoyed with sake, this dish highlights why seafood plays such an important role in Fukuoka food culture.

6. Fukuoka udon

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Fukuoka udon stands apart from other regional varieties because of its soft, slightly chewy texture. Unlike the firm Sanuki style, these noodles are gentler and absorb the light, savory dashi broth beautifully.

Common toppings include burdock tempura, beef slices, or a soft egg. It’s a comforting everyday meal that locals enjoy regularly. While ramen often steals the spotlight, udon quietly remains part of the authentic Fukuoka food lineup.

7. Hitokuchi Gyoza

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Hitokuchi gyoza, meaning “one-bite dumplings,” are smaller and thinner than typical gyoza. Their compact size makes them perfect for sharing—or eating by the dozen. Crispy on the bottom and juicy inside, they’re often filled with pork and cabbage.

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These dumplings are especially popular at yatai Japanese street food stands, where they’re served hot off the grill with a simple soy-vinegar dipping sauce. Pair them with a cold beer for the full experience of yatai food stalls culture.

8. Tetsunabe Gyoza

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Tetsunabe gyoza are cooked and served in a cast-iron skillet, creating a deeply crisp, golden crust. The sizzling iron plate keeps them hot from the first bite to the last.

They tend to be slightly richer and more intensely browned than hitokuchi gyoza, offering a satisfying crunch. Popular in Hakata’s nightlife districts, they’re often enjoyed late into the evening after hopping between the food stalls of Japan that visitors love.

9. Yatai Japanese street food

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While individual dishes matter, the true heart of Fukuoka food lies in its vibrant yatai culture. Visiting multiple yatai food stalls allows you to sample a range of flavors in one evening—from yakitori skewers and tempura to oden, grilled seafood, and creative seasonal specials.

In recent years, the menus at these yatai have become even more diverse, including globally beloved options, such as French cuisine and café-style dishes.

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What makes yatai Japanese street food special isn’t just the menu—it’s the atmosphere. With only a handful of seats, these intimate stalls encourage conversation between strangers and chefs alike. They represent one of the most iconic examples of Japan’s food stall culture and remain essential to experiencing the best food Fukuoka has to offer.

Fukuoka’s must-visit attractions

Once you’ve had your fill of Fukuoka’s best foods, take a moment to explore its sights.

Ohori Park

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Ohori Park is a tranquil urban oasis centered around a large pond inspired by classical Chinese garden design. A 1.9-kilometer (1.2-mile) walking path circles the water, making it popular for jogging, cycling, and leisurely strolls. Small islands connected by elegant bridges create picturesque views in every season, especially when illuminations reflect on the pond’s tranquil surface.

Nearby, you’ll also find the Fukuoka Art Museum and a traditional Japanese garden, perfect for a quiet break between meals of rich Hakata ramen and other Fukuoka specialties.

Fukuoka Tower

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Standing 234 meters tall (768 feet), Fukuoka Tower is Japan’s tallest seaside tower. Its mirrored exterior reflects the sky beautifully, especially at sunset. From the observation deck, you’ll get panoramic views of Hakata Bay, the city skyline, and even distant mountains on clear days. At night, the illuminated tower becomes a romantic landmark, often featuring seasonal light displays that make it a favorite photo spot.

Fukuoka Castle Ruins

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The historic Fukuoka Castle Ruins, located within Maizuru Park, date back to the early 1600s. Although much of the original structure no longer stands, the impressive stone walls and elevated lookout points remain. Climb to the observation area for sweeping city views.

In spring, cherry blossoms transform the grounds into one of Fukuoka’s most popular hanami (flower-viewing) spots, creating a beautiful contrast between history and nature.

Find out more: Best Places to See Cherry Blossoms in Japan

CANAL CITY HAKATA

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Canal City Hakata is a dynamic entertainment complex built around a central canal. Known as a “city within a city,” it features shops, cafés, theaters, hotels, and a famous Ramen Stadium where you can sample regional ramen styles from across Japan. Hourly fountain shows add energy to the space, and it’s an ideal stop if you want to compare different flavors after trying Hakata’s signature tonkotsu broth.

Shikanoshima Island

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Shikanoshima Island is connected to Kyushu by a long road on a narrow spit of sand, perfect for scenic drives or cycles. Curving around Hakata Bay, it offers a space for snorkeling, diving, and sightseeing in a serene, secluded spot. It’s a refreshing nature escape that’s easily accessible from the city center, swapping urban skylines for coastal horizons in minutes.

Nokonoshima Island

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Another escape into the scenery of Hakata Bay is Nokonoshima Island, promising memorable views of Fukuoka’s unique waterside skyline. Head to the Nokonoshima Island Park in spring for striking yellow nanohana blossoms, summer for sunflowers and scarlet sage, autumn for cosmos, and winter for snowy scenes and daffodils. For a BBQ with friends, relax at the Nokonoshima Camp Grounds.

Hakata Old Town

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Hakata Old Town preserves the historic heart of Fukuoka, with temples, shrines, and traditional streets that tell the story of the city’s merchant past. Visit Tochoji Temple to see its large wooden Buddha statue, relax in Shotenji Temple, or stroll through Kushida Shrine, which hosts the famous Hakata Gion Yamakasa festival each summer. The area offers a slower pace and a meaningful cultural contrast to the lively energy of modern shopping districts and bustling food stalls.

Explore the heart of Japan’s yatai food stalls

From creamy Hakata ramen to late-night bites at glowing yatai food stalls, Fukuoka’s culinary scene is bold, comforting, and deeply rooted in tradition. The city’s rich yatai Japanese street food culture makes it one of the most exciting destinations for exploring authentic Fukuoka food.

Beyond the plate, scenic parks, seaside views, and historic landmarks make Fukuoka endlessly memorable.

If you’re looking to escape the crowds of Honshu, consider heading west to Kyushu and discovering Japan’s “West Golden Route.” In Fukuoka, you’ll find some of the best food that Japan has to offer and an atmosphere that keeps travelers coming back for more.

Fukuoka food FAQs

What food is Fukuoka famous for?

Fukuoka is most famous for Hakata ramen, mentaiko (spicy cod roe), and motsunabe hot pot. Its vibrant yatai Japanese street food culture also makes it one of the best cities in Japan for casual, open-air dining.

What kinds of foods are sold in street food stalls in Fukuoka?

At yatai food stalls, you’ll find ramen, yakitori skewers, gyoza, tempura, oden, and seasonal seafood dishes. These Japanese food stalls offer an intimate and authentic dining experience.

How many yatai food stalls are in Fukuoka?

There are typically around 100 yatai operating in Fukuoka, mainly in Nakasu, Tenjin, and Nagahama areas.

What is a “must buy” in Fukuoka?

Mentaiko is a classic souvenir. Packaged beautifully and full of flavor, it’s a perfect reminder of your Fukuoka food adventure.

The seven-month-old monkey’s story is both heartbreaking and hopeful. After being abandoned by his mother and struggling to bond with his troop, Punch found comfort in an unusual companion—a plush orangutan toy provided by his keepers.

His touching attempts to cope with loneliness have resonated with millions of viewers and sparked global conversations about animal emotions, care in zoos, and the resilience of young animals.

Grab your nearest stuffed toy and try not to cry—we’re here to learn about the adorable Punch the Monkey.

Who is Punch the Monkey?

Punch is a baby Japanese macaque living at Ichikawa City Zoo, a small municipal zoo located just east of Tokyo in Chiba Prefecture.

Born in 2025, Punch was rejected by his mother shortly after birth, at which point the zookeepers stepped in to hand-raise him to ensure he survived. While staff cared for his basic needs, Punch still faced a difficult challenge: integrating into the troop of other macaques at the zoo.

Like many social primates, Japanese macaques rely heavily on family bonds and group relationships. Without a mother to guide him and protect him, Punch initially struggled to find his place within the troop.

Why is Punch the Monkey viral?

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Punch became viral after videos showed the young macaque clinging to a stuffed orangutan toy given to him by his caretakers. In the clips shared widely on social media, Punch can be seen carrying the toy everywhere—hugging it, grooming it, and even turning to it for comfort after negative interactions with other monkeys.

In several viral moments, older macaques push him away or ignore him, and Punch immediately runs back to his stuffed companion. The contrast between the small monkey seeking comfort and the toy standing in for a missing mother struck a powerful emotional chord with viewers. Millions of people online have described the scenes as both heartbreaking and deeply touching.

Animal behavior experts note that such comfort objects can help young animals cope with stress or separation, much like security blankets or stuffed toys help human children.

Why was Punch the Monkey abandoned?

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Zookeepers believe Punch was abandoned by his mother shortly after birth due to several possible factors.

One likely cause was an intense summer heatwave around the time Punch was born. Extreme heat can place stress on animals and affect maternal behavior. Throw into this mix that his mother was also reportedly a first-time parent, meaning she may have lacked the experience needed to care for a newborn.

In addition, the social environment within a captive troop can be complicated. Competition and hierarchy among macaques sometimes lead to inexperienced mothers struggling to raise their young successfully.

How is Punch the Monkey doing now?

The question we’re all asking. According to zoo staff, he’s now integrated with the troop!

Punch is reportedly making steady progress. He is gradually learning social cues from other macaques and interacting more with his troop. Other monkeys in the troop have even been seen grooming Punch, a key symbol of integration in the troop’s social hierarchy.

Over time, he is relying less on the stuffed toy as he becomes more confident, though he can still be seen walking hand-in-hand with his orangutan at times.

Where is Punch the Monkey?

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Punch lives at Ichikawa City Zoo, located in Ichikawa City in Chiba Prefecture, just across the Edo River from Tokyo. The zoo is a small community zoo known for its family-friendly atmosphere and for housing animals native to Japan, including Japanese macaques, red pandas, and various birds and small mammals.

Punch continues to live with the macaque troop at the zoo, where keepers are carefully monitoring his development and social progress.

How to get to Ichikawa City Zoo

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From Tokyo, visitors can reach Ichikawa by local JR train lines in about 30–40 minutes. From the nearest station, buses or taxis provide access to the zoo.

The easiest way to reach Ichikawa from faraway Japanese cities is the Tokaido Shinkansen, which connects key destinations including Tokyo, Nagoya, Kyoto, and Osaka.

Whether you’re visiting Mount Fuji, exploring Kyoto’s temples, or heading to Osaka for street food, the line offers unmatched speed, comfort, and reliability—meaning you’ll always have the opportunity to meet Punch.

Going to see Punch the Monkey?

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Punch the Monkey’s story highlights both the challenges and resilience of young animals. Despite being abandoned by his mother and struggling to fit in with his troop, the tiny macaque has shown remarkable adaptability—with a little help from his caretakers and his unusual stuffed companion.

As he continues growing and learning social behaviors from other monkeys, Punch’s journey is gradually shifting from one of heartbreak to one of hope.

See this story come to life at Ishikawa City Zoo, where Punch is likely waiting for your visit—orangutan in hand.

Punch the Monkey FAQs

What is going on with Punch the Monkey?

Over the past few weeks, a baby macaque at Ichikawa City Zoo named Punch has taken the internet by storm. Viral videos show the young monkey being pushed away by older members of his group and seeking comfort by hugging a stuffed orangutan toy given to him by zookeepers.

How old is Punch the monkey?

At the time of writing, Punch is about seven months old. He was born in 2025 and quickly gained global attention after videos of him with his stuffed toy went viral online.

What kind of monkey is Punch?

Punch is a Japanese macaque, a species also known as the snow monkey. These monkeys are native to Japan and are famous for their social behavior and adaptability to cold climates.

Why does Punch carry a stuffed toy?

Zookeepers introduced the stuffed orangutan toy as a comfort object after Punch was abandoned by his mother. Similar to how human children use stuffed teddies, the toy helps reduce stress and provides emotional reassurance.

Can visitors see Punch at the zoo?

Yes. Visitors to Ichikawa City Zoo may be able to see Punch with the macaque troop, though animal viewing depends on weather, activity levels, and the zoo’s daily schedule.

Why are Japanese macaques called snow monkeys?

Japanese macaques are often called snow monkeys because they live farther north than any other non-human primate and are well adapted to cold environments, including snowy mountain regions of Japan.

Find out more: Jigokudani Monkey Park