A Brief History Goryokaku (五稜郭), located in Hakodate, Hokkaido, is Japan’s first Western-style fortress. It was completed in 1864 during the late Edo period, designed by Takeda Ayasaburō under the order of the Tokugawa shogunate. Its purpose was to protect … Read More
Japan has more than a hundred original castles, but only five are designated as National Treasures by the Japanese government. These castles are recognized for their historical, cultural, and architectural importance. Visiting them offers a rare opportunity to step back … Read More
Hidden within the grounds of a serene temple in Hiroshima Prefecture lies a breathtaking white marble paradise that looks like something from another world. Welcome to Miraishin no Oka (未来心の丘), or “Hill of Hope,” a unique open-air art space where … Read More
Nestled in Niigata Prefecture’s Tokamachi region, Kiyotsu Gorge (清津峡 / Kiyotsu‑kyō) ranks among Japan’s three great gorges, along with Kurobe Gorge and Ōsugi Valley. Carved by the emerald-clear river and towering columnar-jointed cliffs, it’s a masterpiece of nature. In 2018, … Read More
A Brief History Yūtoku Inari Shrine, located in Kashima City, Saga Prefecture, was established in 1687 by the wife of the ruling Nabeshima lord. It enshrines Inari Ōkami, the deity of prosperity, agriculture, business success, and good fortune. It is … Read More
Nestled in the coastal town of Otake in Hiroshima Prefecture, the Simose Art Museum has quickly become a destination of global acclaim. Opened in March 2023, it was named to the “World’s Most Beautiful Museums” list by the Prix Versailles, … Read More
Nestled at the foot of Mount Kurama, north of Kyoto City, Kifune Shrine (also spelled Kibune) is the head shrine of over 500 Kifune shrines found throughout Japan. It sits near the source of the Kamo River and enshrines the … Read More
Hidden beneath a concrete overpass in Yokohama’s Tsurumi Ward lies Kokudō Station, one of Japan’s most mysterious and atmospheric train stations. Despite its eerie, almost forgotten look, this station is very much in use — a living relic of the … Read More
Nestled in the mountains of Yusuhara Town in Kochi Prefecture, Kumo-no-Ue Gallery (literally “Gallery Above the Clouds”) is a stunning wooden museum designed by world-renowned architect Kengo Kuma. This architectural gem offers visitors a chance to experience the harmony between … Read More
If you’re traveling through central Japan and looking for a one-of-a-kind cultural experience, the Toyama Glass Art Museum is a must-visit. Located in Toyama City, this architectural marvel and artistic haven perfectly captures the spirit of “Glass City Toyama.” Highlights … Read More