Ibusuki A hot spring area located on Satsuma Peninsula in Kagoshima Prefecture. Ibusuki is popular for an Original bathing method called suna-mushi in which the whole body is buried in sand warmed by hot spring water. Ibusuki is a charming coastal city located in Kagoshima Prefecture, on the southern tip of Kyushu, Japan. It is …
Yakushima Island Many climbers visit this island to see the ancient Japanese cedar tree called Jomon sugi, that is said to be more than 4000 years old. The moss- covered primeval forests of this island have been used as the setting for animated films. Yakushima Island is a stunning and biodiverse island located off the …
Takachiho Ravine A gorge formed by eroded lava from Mt. Aso. Cliffs 80 meters(262 feet) to 100 meters (328 feet) high continue for 7 kilometers (4.4 miles) in this valley. Many waterfalls flow into this ravine, where people can enjoy the particularly beautiful sights of fresh leaves in spring and colorful foliage in fall. Takachiho …
Fukuoka City (Hakata) The largest city in Kyushu, and renowned as a gateway to Asia. Fukuoka offers a variety of local delicacies, such as fresh seafood and tonkotsu ramen(Chinese noodles in a pork bone soup), all year round. Fukuoka City, often referred to as Hakata, is a lively and modern metropolis in Fukuoka Prefecture, Japan. …
A Pilgrimage around Shikoku Island (Ohenro) Some 1200 years ago, Kobo Daishi established 88 holy places(temples) scattered around Shikoku Island to free people from their suffering. Going on a pilgrimage to these temples is said to remove earthly desires and answer prayers, which is why many pilgrims visit these sacred locations. A pilgrimage around Shikoku …
Matsuyama Castle The main keep of Matsuyama Castle is located on top of the 132- meter (433-feet) Mt. Katsuyama in Matsuyama City, Prefecture. The Keep can be reached by an aerial tramway. Twenty-one existing structures of the castle, including the castle tower, are designated as nationally important cultural assets. Matsuyama Castle, located in Matsuyama City, …
Hagi and Tsuwano Hagi was once a castle town, while Tsuwano is a city on the water that has many waterways and canals. Nishikigoi (fancy carps) of various colors swim in waterways set in front of samurai houses in Tsuwano. Historical Samurai Town: Hagi, located in Yamaguchi Prefecture, is a beautifully preserved historic town known …