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Top 10 Must-Visit Onsen Destinations in Japan
What Makes Japan’s Famous Onsens So Special? Japan, home to over 27,000 hot springs, has long been a global hotspot for onsen enthusiasts. With their high-quality mineral waters, convenient access, and abundant sightseeing opportunities, these onsen destinations also offer heartfelt hospitality that makes you want to return time and again. In this guide, we introduce the top 10 onsen resorts, carefully selected by experienced writers who have visited these locations multiple times. 1. Kusatsu Onsen (Gunma Prefecture) 2. Hakone Onsen (Kanagawa Prefecture) 3. Arima Onsen (Hyogo Prefecture) 4. Noboribetsu Onsen (Hokkaido) 5. Shirahama Onsen (Wakayama Prefecture) 6. Beppu Onsen (Oita Prefecture) 7. Gero Onsen (Gifu Prefecture) 8. Dogo Onsen (Ehime Prefecture) 9. Kinosaki Onsen (Hyogo Prefecture) 10. Naruko Onsen…
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Nature and Healing Journey
A theme exploring Japan’s seasonal nature and relaxing hot spring experiences.We bring you content about hot spring resorts, spectacular scenic spots, and seasonal attractions.
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Exploring Tradition and Culture
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Japan’s Most Sacred New Year’s Eve Bell Temples
A Journey Through Time and Tradition As 2024 draws to a close, Japan prepares for one of its most significant cultural traditions – Joya no Kane, the ritual of ringing temple bells 108 times on New Year’s Eve. This ancient Buddhist practice symbolizes the cleansing of the 108 earthly desires and sins that cause human suffering. The final toll resonates precisely at midnight, bridging the old year and the new. Each strike of these massive bronze bells, some weighing several tons, sends deep, resonant waves through the crisp winter air, creating an atmosphere of profound spiritual reflection. Visitors can participate in this meaningful ceremony at many temples across Japan, where…
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Tokyo’s Top 5 Hatsumode Destinations 2025
Your Guide to New Year’s Shrine Visits As the New Year approaches, millions of visitors flock to Tokyo’s shrines and temples for Hatsumode, the traditional first shrine visit of the year. Each location offers its own unique blend of spiritual significance, cultural experiences, and festive atmosphere. Here are the top 5 destinations that showcase the best of this cherished tradition. Meiji Shrine (Meiji Jingu) Located in the heart of Tokyo, Meiji Shrine welcomes over 3 million visitors during the New Year period, making it the city’s most popular Hatsumode destination. A majestic forest path leads to the shrine, creating a serene atmosphere despite being in the center of the metropolis. …
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Characteristics of Hatsumode in Japan
Hatsumode, the first Shinto shrine or Buddhist temple visit of the New Year, is one of Japan’s most significant cultural traditions. This centuries-old practice typically occurs between January 1-3, drawing millions of Japanese people and visitors to religious sites across the country. During Hatsumode, visitors perform specific rituals that have been passed down through generations. Upon arriving at a shrine or temple, people first purify themselves at the chozuya (water pavilion) by washing their hands and rinsing their mouths. They then approach the main hall, where they toss a coin as an offering, ring the bell to grab the attention of the deities, bow twice, clap twice, make their prayers…
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Ultimate Guide to Tokyo’s Yurakucho & Shinbashi
Welcome to Tokyo’s vibrant business and entertainment district, where the sophisticated charm of Yurakucho meets the energetic atmosphere of Shinbashi. This comprehensive guide will take you through these fascinating neighboring areas that perfectly showcase the contrast between old and new Tokyo. The Nostalgic Charm of Yurakucho’s Gado-shita Step into a time capsule beneath the railway tracks The atmospheric area beneath the elevated train tracks in Yurakucho, known as “gado-shita,” captures the essence of post-war Tokyo. As you walk through this dimly lit corridor, the rumbling of trains overhead mingles with the cheerful chatter from countless izakayas (Japanese pubs) and yakitori joints. The air is filled with the enticing aroma of…
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Luxury, Tradition, and Excitement: The Ultimate Guide to Exploring Ginza
Tokyo’s Most Glamorous Neighborhood High-End Shopping ExperienceCulinary Delights and Michelin-Starred RestaurantsTraditional and Modern Art GalleriesArchitecture and Urban DesignCultural Experiences and NightlifeLuxury Brands and Fashion BoutiquesHidden Gems and Local Secrets Ginza Unveiled – A Shopper’s Paradise and Cultural Epicenter Imagine stepping into a world where luxury meets tradition, where every street corner tells a story of elegance and innovation.Ginza, Tokyo’s most prestigious neighborhood, is more than just a shopping district – it’s a vibrant tapestry of Japanese culture, high-end fashion, and culinary excellence. Located in the heart of Tokyo, this iconic area seamlessly blends cutting-edge modernity with deep-rooted Japanese traditions, creating an unparalleled urban experience that captivates visitors from around the…
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Ultimate Guide to Shinjuku
Tokyo’s Dynamic Heart of Entertainment, Shopping, and Culture Standing in the heart of Tokyo, Shinjuku is a dazzling testament to Japan’s modernity while still preserving pockets of traditional charm. As one of Tokyo’s most vibrant districts, it perfectly embodies the city’s dynamic spirit – from towering skyscrapers and neon-lit entertainment districts to serene gardens and historic temples. This comprehensive guide will help you navigate this exciting district like a local. Key Points of Interest:– Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden– The neon-lit streets of Kabukicho– Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building– Golden Gai’s historic alleyways– Historic Hanazono Shrine The Modern Face of Shinjuku: Skyscrapers and Shopping Walking through the west side of Shinjuku Station,…
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Discovering Akasaka
Tokyo’s Sophisticated Entertainment and Business District Where Modern Tokyo Meets Traditional Charm Nestled in the heart of Tokyo, Akasaka presents a fascinating blend of Japan’s business prowess and cultural heritage. This distinguished district, home to foreign embassies and major corporations, transforms from a bustling business hub by day to a vibrant entertainment zone by night. Its strategic location and sophisticated atmosphere make it an ideal base for exploring both the modern and traditional faces of Tokyo. The district’s unique character comes from its careful preservation of historic sites alongside gleaming skyscrapers. Here, you’ll find centuries-old shrines peacefully coexisting with contemporary architecture, and traditional tea houses operating next to trendy cocktail…
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Tokyo’s Ikebukuro: A Comprehensive Travel Guide
Ikebukuro – An Overview of Tokyo’s Dynamic Cultural Hub Ikebukuro is one of Tokyo’s most vibrant city districts, offering a mix of shopping, entertainment, cultural experiences, and hidden gems. As one of the busiest stations in Tokyo, it serves as a gateway to unique attractions that appeal to both locals and international visitors. Whether you’re into anime, shopping, or exploring quieter corners of Tokyo, Ikebukuro has something for everyone. Must-Visit Spots in Ikebukuro Sunshine City – An All-in-One Entertainment Complex Sunshine City is Ikebukuro’s iconic shopping and entertainment destination, featuring everything from department stores and an aquarium to a planetarium and observatory. Sunshine Aquarium – A Unique Aquatic Experience Above…
