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Wanderlog staff Updated • updatedMar 31, 2023
How long is the drive from Kanazawa to Sapporo?
The direct drive from Kanazawa to Sapporo is 723 mi (1,163 km), and should have a drive time of 15 hrs 12 mins in normal traffic.
If you’re going on a road trip from Kanazawa to Sapporo, we did the research for you and compiled some great stops along the way — with Hakodate, Takayama, Otaru, Aomori, Nagano, Yamanouchi-machi, Noboribetsu, Toyama, Niigata, and Hirosaki, as well as top places to visit like Notojima Aquarium and Ueda Castle Ninomaru Ruins, or the ever-popular Daio Wasabi Farm.
The top cities between Kanazawa and Sapporo are Hakodate, Takayama, Otaru, Aomori, Nagano, Yamanouchi-machi, Noboribetsu, Toyama, Niigata, and Hirosaki. Hakodate is the most popular city on the route. It's 12 hours from Kanazawa and 3 hours from Sapporo.
Toyama is a city situated on the coast of Honshu, Japan's main island. A restored castle from the 1500s can be found in Toyama Castle Park, along with art and history museums. The Toyama Glass Art Museum showcases modern artworks that are impressive in their own right. In Rakusui-tei, visitors can explore an art museum located within a traditional home amidst a formal garden.
19% as popular as Hakodate
7 minutes off the main route, 5% of way to Sapporo
Takayama, situated in the mountainous region of Gifu Prefecture in Japan, boasts its Sanmachi Suji historic district with narrow streets and wooden merchants' houses dating back to the Edo Period. This charming city is renowned for its biannual Takayama Festival that has been celebrated since the mid-1600s. The festival includes parades featuring extravagant gilded floats and puppet shows during spring and fall.
50% as popular as Hakodate
59 minutes off the main route, 9% of way to Sapporo
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Nagano is a city located in the Nagano Basin in central Chūbu, Japan. It's the highest prefectural capital in Japan, sitting at an altitude of 371.4 meters. The Chubu Sangaku National Park, which spans across several prefectures including Nagano, boasts stunning natural scenery and diverse flora due to its varying altitudes. This park attracts around 10 million visitors annually who come to enjoy activities such as hot spring relaxation and mountain climbing.
27% as popular as Hakodate
48 minutes off the main route, 16% of way to Sapporo
4
Yamanochi
Yamanouchi, a municipality situated in the Shimotakai District of Nagano Prefecture, Japan is home to an estimated population of 12,403 individuals residing in 5,020 households. With a population density of approximately 47 persons per square kilometer, Yamanouchi spans over an area of 265.90 square kilometers. As of April 1st, 2019 this town boasts a considerable amount of land for its populace to inhabit and thrive within.
Niigata, located on Honshu island in Japan, is a significant harbor city with several attractions. The Minatopia historical museum complex houses the Niigata Customs House and other heritage buildings. Marinepia Nihonkai aquarium along the coast has dolphins and sea otters to see. Ito Estate, part of Northern Culture Museum, showcases art collections from a wealthy family in the 1800s who once lived there.
18% as popular as Hakodate
7 minutes off the main route, 21% of way to Sapporo
I'll never travel to Sapporo without this trip planner again
The city of Hirosaki, located in Honshu, Japan, features the iconic Hirosaki Castle from the seventeenth century. Visitors flock to this area to witness the stunning cherry blossoms within Hirosaki Park. Nakamachi also boasts preserved samurai homes such as Ito and Umeda family residences. Fujita Memorial Garden is another must-see attraction with its traditional two-tiered garden and teahouse.
18% as popular as Hakodate
10 minutes off the main route, 54% of way to Sapporo
Aomori is the administrative hub of Aomori Prefecture, situated in the Tōhoku region of Japan. With an estimated population of 278,964 individuals dwelling in 136,457 households as of April 2020, the city boasts a population density of around 340 people per square kilometer across its total area spanning over 824.61 square kilometers.
30% as popular as Hakodate
8 minutes off the main route, 57% of way to Sapporo
Hakodate, located on Hokkaido, Japan's northernmost island, is a city known for its stunning attractions and sights. The 334m-high Mount Hakodate offers dramatic nighttime views from its summit, accessible by aerial ropeway gondola. The neighborhood of Motomachi features steep streets with early-20th-century Western-style buildings. A notable landmark is the grand Old Public Hall of Hakodate Ward, built in 1910.
Most popular city on this route
6 minutes off the main route, 79% of way to Sapporo
Noboribetsu is a city situated in Hokkaido, Japan that boasts of its natural hot springs. The region has volcanic craters like Jigokudani (Hell Valley), which emits steam from mountains and boiling water from Tessen Ike geyser. In the center of the city, you can see stone demon statues while trails between oak trees are present in the Noboribetsu Primeval Forest.
20% as popular as Hakodate
18 minutes off the main route, 92% of way to Sapporo
Otaru is a charming port city located on the Hokkaido island in Japan. It is renowned for its glassworks, music boxes, and sake distilleries. The Nishin Goten, a historic fish processing plant turned museum, showcases the city's earlier ties to the fishing industry. The Otaru Canal, completed in 1923, is now lined with cafes and shops housed in converted old warehouses.
48% as popular as Hakodate
9 minutes off the main route, 96% of way to Sapporo
Best stops along Kanazawa to Sapporo drive
The top stops along the way from Kanazawa to Sapporo (with short detours) are Mount Hakodate, Hotel Torifito Otaru Canal, and Snow Monkey Park (Jigokudani Yaen Koen). Other popular stops include Zenkōji temple, Jigokudani (Hell Valley), and Goryōkaku Tower.
Daio Wasabi Farm is a picturesque and popular tourist attraction in Azumino, Japan, that features a river, windmills, and cafe. The farm produces up to ten percent of Japan's wasabi production, which is real wasabi - a world away from the tame, tubed stuff served at cheap soba and sushi restaurants.
The area was very nice to walk around for about 45 minutes. I’d recommend stopping by to try a few of the wasabi treats. My favorite was the wasabi beer and the wasabi ice cream. I’d go for the expensive option for the ice cream as it comes with a bit of wasabi to mix with every bite. Definitely the best ice cream that I’ve ever had. I also tried the croquette but, even though it was nice, it didn’t have a lot of a wasabi taste. The surrounding area is very nice in the autumn and one of the better wasabi farms to visit.
Dan Barbella — Google review
1. Good scenery but nothing much to see. Little explaination board provided. Not sure if it is because of the season or the time I visited the place but many shops were close during my visit.
2. The retail is with little variety of merchandise.
3. The toilet design is fanciful and it is worth a visit
S.Yun_traveller — Google review
9月あたまに来ましたが、まだまだ暑さが残っていて汗だくになりました。
いろんなお店があるので、グルメとしても楽しめます。
歴史的な流れなどの解説もあるので、非常に興味深い場所ですね。
犬と一緒に入れるので、飼われているかたには大変にいい場所だと思います。
(Translated by Google)
I came in the middle of September, but it was still very hot and I was drenched in sweat.
There are various shops, so you can also enjoy gourmet food.
It's a very interesting place as there are explanations about the historical flow.
You can bring your dog with you, so I think it's a great place for people with dogs.
???????? — Google review
Very quite on a Monday 3pm. Guess this is not the peak for the growing season.
Tried the wasabi beer- ok
The wasabi ice cream was good, very good. Tempura wasabi was good too. All was very reasonable price. Entry was free. Gift shop was excellent.
Stephen Lu — Google review
A beautiful farm that Is free to look around. Great wasabi foods to try. Friendly staff
Tom Logan — Google review
The visit is free, there's only the plantation to see but indications about wasabi's growth. But it's nice there's panels with the direction to make walks. There's Wasabi ice-cream and restaurants. There's also a smoking area on the right side of the entrance.
Biesse Fr?d?ric — Google review
Depending on the time of year of your visit, you probably can see more than we could. But still, interesting to see how wasabi is grown. And, of course, in the shop you can buy everything with wasabi. And have a wasabi ice.
Sven Wischnowsky — Google review
8/20に訪問しました。この時期は暑さ対策でワサビ田に黒い日除けが掛けられていています。
ワサビは見れませんでしたが、水は冷たく涼しさを感じられる景色の良い所です。食べ物も美味しかったです。
無料で楽しめるのでおすすめです。
(Translated by Google)
Visited on 8/20. At this time of year, the wasabi fields are covered with black shades to protect against the heat.
I couldn't see wasabi, but the water is cool and the scenery is nice. The food was delicious too.
It is recommended because you can enjoy it for free.
se ho — Google review
I am glad we didn't miss visiting this wasabi farm. It is really an attraction for domestic tourists. There is plenty of parking but also many visitors. The farm covers a big area, but there is a path to guide you to where you can visit. Prepare to spend 2 hours here, including lunch. There is also a wasabi ice cream stall just outside the gift shop, which usually has a line.
There is a shallow river beside the farm and there is a boating activities but the price of 1200yen for adult and children is kinda steep for a mere 15mins
Won Soon Lau — Google review
Went in winter. Even though wasabi was being covered, the view was fantastic and was able to view the alps. We went on 29th dec and it was not crowded even at 12-1pm!
We enjoyed the frankfurter, matcha beer, oyaki, ice cream. Plenty of souvenirs and was able to buy fresh wasabi as well.
Hamwichh — Google review
Wasabi farm. Not many places in Japan that you can see wasabi has made. Recommended for family with kids and pets. Very huge parking lots available but it might take time to wait if you visit during weekend or public holidays.
Thira Tian — Google review
Such a lovely serene farm to visit with a shallow clear babbling stream through it watering the wasabi plants. There were workers doing there thing and it was peaceful and pretty.
The wasabi ice cream was a treat too.
ToBe True — Google review
There are a couple of wasabi farms in the area but this one seems more popular, perhaps as it is the closest to the train station.
There are several walks there, as well as a wasabi statue. In the autumn season, there is one especially majestic tree all decked out in yellow. Do also check out the mills by the river with its clear crystal waters.
There are a couple of eateries, including a steak house and a rice pot eatery where you can mix the local wasabi, which you freshly ground, in. They serve wasabi ice cream and wasabi croquettes too.
Do visit the shop where you can buy locally made products and wasabi related items. The young wasabi smells nice but is not as pungent or spicy like commercial ones where mustard is added.
Getting there is relatively easy - you can get discounted taxi coupons for @1300 yen both ways from the tourism office, and then ask the wasabi farm staff to call a cab for your return to the train station.
steven lim — Google review
Everything you wanted to ask about wasabi (but where afraid to ask)! In Azumino is the Daio Wasabi Nojo, with a surface of 15 hectares one of the largest wasabi farms in Japan. Ever since 1915, the wasabia japonica plants have been grown here in the clear, pebble-rich mountain streams, the raw material for the famous Japanese, spicy, green paste. Those who are hungry or thirsty can go to one of the restaurants where just about everything is prepared with wasabi, from a wasabi croquette to wasabi ice cream. A visit to this farm is fun, educational and delicious!
Koen — Google review
Ideal for a relaxing trip out of town. Visiting the field is free, and you’ll find plenty of restaurants, souvenirs. You can also try the wasabi beer and wasabi ice cream!
Nadir Shaari — Google review
8月後半の平日に行きました。相変わらずの盛況振りで観光バスのツアー客が集中するとゆっくり楽しむ余裕はないかもしれません。
駐車場、入場料は無料です。ワサビ畑には真夏の強い陽射しを遮る寒冷紗が引かれていて、景観を楽しむには涼しくなる秋の方が良いのかもと思いました。
名物ワサビソフトは、上品で爽やかな辛さがヤミツキになるでしょう。
(Translated by Google)
We went on a weekday in late August. You may not have time to enjoy it slowly if the tourist bus tours are concentrated as usual.
Parking and admission are free. The wasabi fields are lined with cheesecloth to block the strong sunlight in midsummer, and I thought that the cooler autumn would be better to enjoy the scenery.
The famous wasabi ice cream has an elegant and refreshing spiciness that will make you addicted.
????????? — Google review
Beautiful farm. You can view all the crops. Eat wasabi infused goods, and walk around the grounds. If you go in the morning, you’ll have most of the place to yourself.
Kai Middlebrook — Google review
Fun area to explore. Lots of walking trails and interesting points along the way. You can try wasabi ice cream and other snacks. The field is covered by black tarps in the summer to protect the wasabi plants so it may be better to visit during another season.
Max Kennard — Google review
A good place to visit if you enjoy walking and it's free parking and free & easy.
Do not expect any guided tour like introduction, wasabi processing related stuff.
It's refreshing as well and can get some nice souvenirs like their wasabi soba, fresh wasabi, and related products.
M Lee — Google review
The landscape of the Japan Alps in the background from Hotaka Station to Daio Wasabi Farm was wonderful. Although some stretches of the route were quite narrow for pedestrians, the views of the lightly snow covered alpine was more than make up for it. The layout of the farm was impressive. We chose to visit on a weekday so the crowd was more sensible. Meals are available in 3 restaurants . We dined at The Oasis. The pork loin was well seasoned and cooked just right. Delicious. So was the beef rump. The wasabi goes well with the meat. The dessert set was lemon and wasabi cheesecake and lemon wasabi sorbet. Interesting combination. Love it.
Kok-Wah Yeap — Google review
This place is a neat piece of Japanese history. Quick ride from the train station by taxi. Awesome information on the cultivation of wasabi in the area.
CHRIS WESTLEY — Google review
Entrance is free. Had a walk around the wasabi plantation & bought a wasabi ice cream to try. It was a very pleasant visit filled with local tourists. Would recommend dropping by
MX Tan — Google review
A little bit cold as the farm is in the open. There are some finger foods available. While pleasant, they are not amazing. Wasabi ice cream is worth a try.
Darren Wong — Google review
The Daio Wasabi Farm is a great stop on your way to your destination. If you've ever wanted to know where Wasabi comes from and how it is "processed" this is the place.
The farm is interesting for its it waterways, windmills and waterwheels. Irrigation of the fields is also an interesting exploration.
There are a few eating options, a nice gift shop and plenty of public toilets.
There is also free parking on site.
This is a welcome stop away from the crowded touristy places in the area.
The Notojima Aquarium is a well-known zoo which features a diverse range of marine life, including whale sharks, sea lions and dolphins. Visitors can enjoy shows and feedings that are executed exceptionally well, such as the penguin march and dolphin show. Admission fee is approximately 1800 yen but it's possible to get a discount coupon for 200 yen off at the roadside station in Notojima.
The aquarium has long been a favorite of the locals, and you can see the whole place in about two hours. It is one of the few aquariums where whale sharks can be seen, and there are two whale sharks. The tanks are generally lowered to make it easier for children to see the exhibits. The dolphin show is a must-see, and although the pool is small in size, the dolphins' performance is spectacular. Infection control measures are taken, and parents and children will be able to look around in peace.
Tadashi Toyama — Google review
Nice and beautiful aquarium. Whale sharks, dolphins rays and many others must visit.
Ken Teshiba — Google review
We arrived sorta late and walked fast so I only took us about 1 hour to finish the whole aquarium. (To enter the parking lot took us almost 30 mins, it was pack during the golden week.)
Not bad, not impressive neither. Or maybe I’m just not a aquarium person.
Uhaan — Google review
This aquarium is huge inside even though it does not look like it from the outside. They have quite complete collections of fish and other marine creatures. It is well kept, clean and informative enough. Although most the information is in Japanese, the basic info of the creatures is in English. They also have a dolphin and sea lion show. The aquarium is in the side of the ocean so you can see the sea. The view is beautiful. There are a lot of restaurants in the place. But the public transport access to this place is not good. Only a few busses a day.
Lalu — Google review
Really great local aquarium. The penguin march and dolphin show were very well executed and so exciting. Entry costs around 1800 yen but you can get a discount coupon of 200 yen off, at the road side station in Notojima. The aquarium boasts variety of aqua life and some of them are extremely interesting. Definitely worth a visit.
Josh Josh — Google review
I came this aquarium second times. This time there were not many people at the aquarium. When my family were watching a dolphin show, there was only one couple except us. Because of the pandemic of COVID. I think this aquarium is so amazing. I hope many people will come this aquarium after the pandemic.
Sei One — Google review
Hands down my favorite aquarium in Japan. The aquarium has lots of exhibits between its few buildings, most with English translations of animal names as well. The dolphin and sea-lion show was AMAZING, and definitely worth waiting for. Not to mention the beautiful views of the ocean and Noto peninsula
Molly Minamyer — Google review
It had some rain in the morning but the performance of penguins was still be operated. Its look interested. Slot of sea creatures are presented here including a very big salamander. It will be better if go on a sunny day when you could observe the dolphins performance both outside and inside of the aquarium. The performance of dolphin should not be missed here. It will be better if the managers could reorganize the pools and aquarium since they are quite old and not so effectively placed. Also, the road to reach the aquarium which is placed in an island is very beautiful on sunshine or at dawn.
Hung Ba — Google review
4.3
(5714)
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4.5
(325)
15-40 Notojima Magarimachi, Nanao, Ishikawa 926-0216, Japan
The Ueda Castle Ninomaru ruin, which dates back to 1583, has been reconstructed atop a hill. The site includes two Shinto shrines and a museum that showcases the area's local history. Despite being relatively small in size, the place is quite pleasant. Although I did not have the opportunity to explore the castle itself, I was impressed by the abundance of flowers in the surrounding park and a delightful traditional event taking place nearby.
Huge park with museums, a shrine, and much more. You can spend so much time appreciating the history and beauty here. The whole month of April is a cherry blossom festival and it becomes very lively with street food stalls and people.
Nicholas Murphy — Google review
Really lovely castle with a very rich history of one of the coolest samurai clan in all of Japan, the Sanada clan, famous for their samurai uniform with antlers and red color (you've probably seen in movies). Ueda castle also had legendary defense battles against many sieges, the subject of a popular Japanese tv show "sanadamaru". The castle is also featured in other works such as "Summer Wars". While the castle gates aren't as big as Matsumoto castle, I think they are definitely worth visiting if you are in the area..they have amazing armor on display and a rich cultural center and museum nearby.
Baruch Tabanpour — Google review
A magnificent place to visit
Ben Goodman — Google review
The place overall is nice, even though rather small. We did not check out the castle but the park around it was full of flowers and there was a nice traditional event taking place
José Augusto — Google review
Well the old castle is basically destroyed, but the river around the castle, the Earth and the historic atomosphere is still there, telling people the stories in old days
redphone pink — Google review
Came here 4/10/2022 and the sakura were all in full bloom. Depending on the year, the time of the bloom will change so check before you go. There were many food stalls selling your standard Japanese snack foods. I walked around the moat about 3 times just to admire the beautiful sakura trees on both sides.
TIP: In the middle of the moat is this small park that everyone just tends to overlook so it's not that crowded. Bring or buy food from the food stalls and eat it here. If you have a tarp, you can spread it out on the grass. There are also benches you can sit on as well. I climbed up the stairs and got a seat under a gazebo, right in front of a GORGEOUS pink sakura tree.
Highly recommend this place during cherry blossom season. I personally wouldn't plan a trip here off-season though since there's not much of a castle to see (but I'm just not a castle person in the first place...)
Thoa Nguyen — Google review
just been here last Sunday 5/28/2023
yoshabel75 — Google review
Fun walking around the ruins. Great place for Pokemon go.
Hakuba Happo-One Snow Resort is a popular ski destination that also served as the site for the 1998 Winter Olympics. The resort offers a variety of trails suitable for skiers of varying skill levels, and visitors can enjoy international cuisine while taking in the stunning mountain views. In addition to skiing, the resort offers summer activities such as hiking, with beautiful vistas along the way.
Really enjoyed the mountain. Most of the runs are intermediate or advanced so it would not be the place to go if it is your first time. Runs were long and spacious. Did not feel cramped even when crowded.
Max Kennard — Google review
The most well resourced, biggest ski resort in Hakuba valley. Plenty of lifts and runs for all abilities, and lots of modern restaurants and cafes dotted along the mountain. Vending machines are everywhere as well as toilets. Good for a first visit to ease yourself in before venturing to the other resorts
Yushi Peng — Google review
You don’t need to buy the day pass online and you can get slightly cheaper deal from your hotel.
Gondola seemed long queue but moved fast so it is still good to start from there, other lifts could be quiet but slow.
If you come across any whiteout condition in the middle range of mountain, it could be completely clear and worthy to go up higher if your skill can manage higher mountain and more difficult runs.
Storage place costs 300/500/700 yen with different sizes and only takes 100 yen coins.
Hannah Zhang — Google review
We wanted to experience the mountains in the summer, and we’re glad we did. We took the gondola and lifts up as far as we could, and then hiked to the pond. It was a challenge for our children (3, 5, and 8), but they made it up and down with a only a few shoulder rides. I never thought hiking in an unforested area could be so beautiful. The clouds that move up and over the trail really give the mountain an otherworldly feel. Great hike!
Justin Kesselring — Google review
Beautiful fresh power. Plenty of gondolas and no waiting lines on the ski lifts.
The food at the ski centers on the mountain have toilets, shops and food. Pretty affordable overall.
Definitely recommend.
The cost for 9ne day of lifts at Happo one is 65000 Yen.
Anastasia G — Google review
Had a great day of skiing here. The weather and snow were perfect. If the weather is bad, the top of the mountain would be difficult to ski. The food and views were amazing! They serve up some great coffee and cakes here too!
Mike Forstner — Google review
Great resort! Huge and caters more to the intermediate to advanced riders. We were there in early March and were lucky to have a huge dump of powder.
Facilities are great, lot's of different terrain to explore and good lunch spots at good prices. It's fairly central in Hakuba Valley so a good spot to base yourself
Jez Bond — Google review
Nature is breathtaking but ski infrastructure is really outdated. It would need some urgent renovations. Staff was more or less friendly. When crowded you spend most of the time waiting in the line. Quite a few free parkings which is unusual for Japan.
Jure Vodnik — Google review
Spent 4 days on this mountain in total. It was aweaome. The Ramen at the bottom and top of the Gondola were such good snowboarding lunches!
Nigel Cottle — Google review
Lovely ski village in the heart of the Japanese Alps. Easy to get to from Tokyo, via bullet train and bus. Plenty of ski slopes for all skill levels. The 7 different mountains are connected by a bus service, which is kind of convenient and kind of not. If you want first tracks, ski at the mountain you can walk to.
Steven Tuhy — Google review
As one of the only ski resorts that I visited, Happo One was a great place for extending my skiing ability.
There were so many great runs to choose from, however making some signs to show where we were will make the experience better, as many times I didn’t even know where we were.
Conditions when I went was that it was quite icy, due to not having snowed for a while, but when it did, the snow was the best I had ever seen.
Lots of food choices and accomodation around, ski shop hires were cheap and the lift ticket was also for a great price.
Matthew Peng — Google review
Great central place to ski, when the powder arrives, the place becomes a great ski resort. The Skyline slope is great, and Grat Quad is so much fun when its deep snow.
Martin Hexeberg — Google review
The Hakuba Happo One Snow Resort is where the 1998 Winter Olympics were held.
I visited on the 23rd Dec and was quite surprised that there was pretty rich and powdery snow, even though other ski resorts in Nagano Prefecture have no snow or have not opened yet. It was so much fun and I felt why Hakuba is so attractive for every winter sports lover.
A deposit is not required for a lift ticket. Because the resort is so big, there are a lot of car parking lots, some are close to the resort, and some are far away, recommended to check the official website prior to visit.
Shige SHIMOYAMA — Google review
First skiing experience and had an amazing teacher, Ryoji Matoba! Tought me the basics on my first day and then the next day I headed up and took on the mountain! What an amazing experience this was and I will definitely visit Hakuba again! Beautiful place!
Calvin Marais — Google review
my favorite ski resort in Hakuba. I go here at least once every season enjoy a pow snow😍
leo_xfit — Google review
Advantages:
The most foreigner friendly snow resort in Hakuba. The slopes are quite wide and long compared to others in the valley.
Disadvantages:
- Lifts close very easily with a little bit of strong wind. DO NOT come on a day with winds over 20km/h predicted.
- Some completely irresponsible ski lift operators. Me and my child were about to get a lift and the staff forgot to lower the seat flap before we got on. The lift didn’t even slow down, and kept going while I had to lower the seat myself. It was incredibly dangerous.
- Kurobishi restaurant has careless staff who take over 10 mins to serve 1 plate of food and eat on the floor while chatting to each other.
:D — Google review
4.3
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4.5
(852)
Hokujo, Hakuba, Kitaazumi District, Nagano 399-9301, Japan
Shiroyone Senmaida Rice Terraces are a stunning sight to behold. These terraced rice paddies stretch across a hillside, offering breathtaking views of the Sea of Japan. The surrounding footpaths make it easy for visitors to explore the area at their leisure. During certain months, there is an event where the ricefields are lit up at night, providing a striking image of the landscape.
The Senmaida Ricefield is a beautiful spot on the coast of the Sea of Japan. It's a great place for a break or for a more leisurely walk amongst the ricefields.
The footpaths are comfortable for easy access. During some months of the year, there is a light up events where the ricefield is lit at night, which creates a striking image of the landscape. Highly recommended.
F C — Google review
The rice field seem fine so you can definitely go and visit.
There is a parking lot and stairs / path down to the lower level of the rice field.
Shop, toilets etc are all closed.
Everything in that area is still impacted with lots of road works happening.
Madleen Hensel — Google review
Tip- Go there in the right season, the place is beautiful but it needs the green of the rice plantation.
Digu Perdido — Google review
We visited in July and had a great time exploring the rice terraces! You can of course view them from above, but you can also walk among the terraces, too! In different seasons, there are different displays, such as lights being installed for night viewing. I’d highly recommend visiting this area as it is very impressive! I have seen terraced field in many places across japan and other countries, but this place is especially magical because you it is on the coast.
Mary — Google review
It is located in the Ishikawa prefecture. It is located towards the top of the prefecture. The road to this place is sandwiched between hills and the ocean. The rice terrace has an excellent view, especially during the sunset.
Krishna K — Google review
The road leading up to this place is considered as one of the most beautiful in Japan so the drive alone is already worth the trip. I’ve visited both at night for the illumination and in day time and they have their own charms. The night illumination gives an enchanting feeling to visitors and I can only describe it as magical. Visiting during the day gives you a breathtaking view of the rice fields with sea of Japan as its backdrop. It’s a great side trip when visiting the Noto peninsula.
Criselda Cabusas — Google review
Absolutely worth a visit on your drive along the peninsula. It may be tempting to stay up top and skip the walk down the (very) steep hill to the sea but the views are worth make it worth it. The little shop but the parking also has lots of snacks including some fat onigiri.
Claire Bohrer — Google review
I visited the place in February so its kind of cold and the light up starts at 7 pm didn’t see the light up but it was a very nice place. I will definitely visit again in summer to see the light up. There is a big shop where you can enjoy your ice cream or coffee. They have some souvenirs in the shop and the rest room is big and clean.
Dodo — Google review
Delightfully golden rice terraces. Appealing and enjoyable sight at seafront. Go at the right time to see the rice terraces at their most beautiful
CK Cheong — Google review
Was a nice stop! The rice terrace and coastline were beautiful and the little gift shop smelled amazing. I didn’t get any of the food there but I wanted to!
J — Google review
I got some presumption before to visit this places. There are so many photos or advertisements about this place. It’s still a beautiful place to visit but just not as spectacular as I would expect.
Shirley V — Google review
4.2
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4.0
(552)
99-5 Shiroyonemachi, Wajima, Ishikawa 928-0256, Japan
The Zenkō-ji Temple, established in the 7th century, boasts a beautiful garden and treasure house. Its most cherished possession is the Ikko-Sanzon statue, considered Japan's first Buddhist image. Despite being unseen by even 37 generations of emperors, Zenkō-ji welcomes an influx of visitors every seven years during Gokaicho Matsuri to view a copy.
A beautiful 7th century temple and surrounding grounds with a long shopping street leading to it from the city centre. You can find lots of delicious treats on the way up the hill and some good gifts to take back home.
This temple is said to hold the first Buddhist statue to ever come to Japan and it is considered to be the birthplace of Buddhism in the country. Nagano Town was built around the temple and it continues to be a major point of interest in the modern city.
I love the two giant Nio Guardians at the outer gate south of the main gate. It is the first structure you pass as you walk up the hill from the city
Maher Itani — Google review
Visited on the first day of 2023 for the good luck new year blessing. Very crowded, but everyone was in polite manner. There's a special loop bus to digest the mass directly from Nagano Bus Terminal. It's my second visit at the temple, still as divine. The new year atmosphere is something I never experienced before. It was quite a journey!
Jason Hung — Google review
Not my favourite temple in Japan, but its size is undeniable and the architecture is praiseworthy. The straight path to the main hall reminded me a bit of Kaminarimon. My favourite part was the underground walk in the darkness (don't cheat by turning on your phone)
Éamon M — Google review
Very beautiful and picturesque old temple.
It is a national heritage site and the largest wooden structure in japan.
The pagoda at the back of the temple complex holds the ashes of those that died during WW2.
Very sacred place and worth this visit especially in winter.
Mitchell Hoeboer — Google review
This is an iconic location in Nagano. The temple area is so big and there are many shrines inside the temple area. During winter it's very attractive. It was highly crowded during weekend.
Chamal Perera — Google review
I went there to visit as a group visit during a Lamborghini event. A Beautiful temple in the heart of Nagano with different complexes. You can go up the temple to enjoy the views from the top. The temple where Kuukai the monk got raised. Very I interesting experience walking in the dark by touching the wall! The only tricky part is that you have to pay at every place you go… would be nice if there was one ticket for all. and it’s not too cheap if it adds up. But it’s I understandable as you need to maintain the temple to be visited by so many tourists !
Clara BODIN- Official — Google review
Have visited this temple at night time, around 9PM 🫣
all the stores around are already closed.
It was majestic at night because there was no crowd. Only the temple and the very silent sound of the area.
You should try to visit it and stroll around the area!
Jay-ar — Google review
Very cool temple in Nagano with a large complex of important buildings with interesting history! The temple itself is a very iconic building that has been the favorite temple I’ve visited so far in Japan. I’d recommend buying the combination pass (1200 yen) which allows you to enter to enter all the ticketed areas of the Temple grounds. Each is quite unique and worth a look. The Main Hall includes an underground passage which is quite dark and a fun experience to walk through! The Main Gate provides great views of the temple itself and the surrounding scenery. The museum offers many pieces of art related to the museum and the deities relevant to the temple. It also has a cool section with artifacts from when the 14th Dalai Lama visited Zenkoji. The last ticketed building has a large revolving storage for scripture that if you push it one full revolution will give you the same status as if you had recited all the scripture itself! Visiting Zenkoji is a must-do activity when visiting Nagano and the transportation is very easy from the city center! Also, the temple is surrounded by great small shops with souvenirs and some excellent food!
Max Davis — Google review
This is a beautiful and culturally important Buddhist temple. On the day we visited, there were hundreds of people. Many tourists were enjoying the beauty of the buildings, gardens, and statues. The locals were going about their rituals of prayer or celebration. Family groups celebrate their children's coming of age, dressed in their traditional kimonos. Worshippers receiving blessings from the priest or praying for good health. A great experience.
Master English — Google review
Main highlight to visit in Nagano. This gigantic buddhism temple has a long history over 1400 years.
Before getting to the main temple, there is a shopping street where you can enjoy buying souvenirs or snack or food.
The main temple offers an interesting activity that is, walking into a pitch black tunnel. You wont see a thing. What you do is to put your right hand on the walk and use it to guide your direction. There are a few turns there. As long as you hav your right hand on the wall it will be fine. It is believed that once you walk you are purified and then can go to get blessings with several places in the temple. There is also 'a key' in the tunnel ( I feel like a door handle) it is believed that if toy find the key in the tunnel, yoy will be blessed. It is about a waist level on the right and I reckon its about 2/3 of the journey.
There are some other activities also like meditation (called zazen) and calligraphy.
Tony Chote — Google review
30 min walk from Nagano station thru the main street to get there, with interesting shops/buildings along the way. Nice temple grounds.
Norris C — Google review
It's the better asakusa in every way. Way bigger temple, nicer area, beautiful garden. More food stalls, better quality food and souvenirs, cheaper too. It's never crowded, almost no foreign tourists. It's one of the best places I've been to.
Prady — Google review
Personally had a decent time walking around all aspects of the temple and admiring its beauty and significance.
Just sadly found the place a bit too over commercialised with the main hall of the temple with the Buddha for prayer costing people 700 Yen to pray. A bit too far from my perspective.
Nixon Tan — Google review
Stunningly beautiful location in the lovely city of Nagano. Would advise going early in the day as it gets a little busier later on. Well worth a trip into the main temple itself for a look around (no pictures, so take it all in!) and a talk to the staff there who are welcoming & explained to us (in very good English) the meaning of the temple & various adornments within.
The rest of the grounds are picturesque with a mountainous backdrop against various temple buildings. We also left a Gankake-Kitsune as an offering at a small shrine & made a wish.
Take your time to soak it all in & enjoy the serenity of this amazing place :)
Julius Anson — Google review
One of the most beautiful temples to visit while in Japan. The complex is surrounded by multiple structures, sculptures and gardens.
The entrance to the complex is free except for the main temple.
There are many stores at the side of the road leading to Zenko-ji temple.
Ilan Kader — Google review
Beautiful temple! Highly recommend visiting this place if you’re fortunate enough to visit Nagano. We visited on the 1.1.2024. Lots of lovely colourful shops with lots of souvenirs to purchase. The only thing I don’t recommend was the earthquake that we experienced! Very scary but all part and parcel of a fantastic experience at Zenkoji Temple.
Annette Scott — Google review
Great experience. At 7 am is the ceremony and it worth it to be there so early in the morning. The surroundings are beautiful and you can find statues of Buddha. You can also make your Goshuin for 500 yen.
Leonardo — Google review
It is an amazing place to feel the spirit and history of ancient times. The temple and the surrounding buildings are of a grandeur scale. There is a sense of serenity. We walked up from Nagoya Station in what was a very flat sand easy walk. Lots of souvenir shops, coffee shops, and restaurants on the way up to the temple.We got there around 3:30 in the afternoon, and there were very few signs of crowds. There was lots of information about Zenko-ji on display for those curious. Lots and lots of photo opportunities. Definitely put it on your must do list if in or near Nagano.
Was lucky enough to head back there a few days later but went at about 6 pm. Totally different vibe at night and lovely picture opportunities. Very few people, just a few locals walking through the grounds. Zenkoji is well lit up, as are the gates. If you have tome, a night walk up there is recommended.
Harro — Google review
This is a must if you are visiting Nagano, especially for the first time. The area can be quite crowded especially in the afternoon. For people who prefer walking, you can also walk from Nagano station to Zenkoji temple. There are also busses you can take from Nagano station to Zenkoji temple. The place is really nice and quiet!
Bryan James Ilaga (Bryan James) — Google review
Great temple complex in Nagano.
Especially nice to walk up to this temple from the Station as there's a big shoppong street leading towards the temple.
Matthijs — Google review
We loved this place. It payed by itself the travel to Japan. Nagano is a beautiful town, completely different to Tokyo. Architecture is amazing and whole vibe.
Zeko-ji it's a complete town itself, surrounded by several other minor temples, gardens and amazing landscapes.
There're options to stay in small temples and houses around the temple and live the spiritual lifestyle, that has to be an unforgettable experience.
Woodwork, wood sculptures are like nothing you've seen before. The giant warriors keeping the gigantic gates seems like they're alive.
A must visit in Japan, don't miss this place and please reserve at least half day in the area.
If you're ok with walking, it is just 30 mins from Nagano Station in a straight direction to the temple. The avenue is packed with nice design stores and astonishing design houses.
juan arbelaez — Google review
Exploring the temple grounds revealed beautifully manicured gardens, serene ponds, and various smaller shrines, each with its unique charm. In the heart of Nagano City, Zenkoji Temple stands as a testament to the enduring power of spirituality and the beauty of cultural heritage.
Yubatake is a popular tourist spot that features a human-made pool filled with geothermal water, which is centrally located and surrounded by bathhouses and traditional lodges. The thermal waters are sourced from nearby hot springs and provide visitors with a relaxing soak in the warm mineral-rich water. Yubatake offers an authentic Japanese experience where guests can immerse themselves in local traditions, including indulging in delicious food and taking part in cultural activities.
どうしても来たくなりハルニレテラス来たついでにこちらに立ち寄りました。
湯畑はもちろん、見る事が出来て満足してるしその周辺の探索や食べ歩きなどもなかなか楽しいですね♪犬連れてペットカート乗せたり歩かせたりしながら色々と見て回れるし楽しいですね♪今回は温泉♨️利用していないので次回はぜひ堪能してみたいと思いました。犬と一緒に入れるお店がもっと多くなりますように。犬が入れるペット温泉みたいのがあったらいいのになぁ〜って思っちゃいました。
(Translated by Google)
I really wanted to come and stopped by here while visiting Harunire Terrace.
I'm satisfied with not only the Yubatake, but I'm also happy to be able to see it, and it's quite fun to explore the surrounding area and eat while walking. This time I didn't use the hot spring ♨️, so I would like to enjoy it next time.I hope there will be more shops that allow dogs. I thought it would be nice to have a pet hot spring where dogs can enter.
sayuri tsujiyama — Google review
The most beautiful open onsen water area. The green colour of the sulphur is just spectacular! Amazing views, lovely place to walk around. There are free foot baths and taps where you can feel the warm onsen water. What a great experience.
Joyce K — Google review
Although super touristy, it is amazing to see the onsen pool and waterfall. Night and day environments are different, so it is advised to visit at all hours. I visited in Jan 2024 so the steam created a haunted feeling. Fallen snow created an amazing scene
Villagemayor — Google review
土曜日の夕方でしたがやはり人が多かったですねw
湯もみの体験?には長蛇の列が。。汗
湯畑は何度もいったことがありますが、個人的にはこの硫黄のにおいが大好きで冬も夏も四季折々な風情が十分に味わえます!
周囲には多くの旅館や日帰り温泉の施設があるのでふらっと観光に行っても十分楽しめます( *´艸`)
(Translated by Google)
It was a Saturday evening, but there were still a lot of people.
Yumomi experience? There is a long line in the . Sweat
I've been to Yubatake many times, but I personally love the smell of sulfur, and I can fully enjoy the taste of the four seasons in winter and summer!
There are many ryokan inns and day-trip hot spring facilities in the area, so you can fully enjoy yourself even if you just go sightseeing (*´艸`)
MT MUSASHI — Google review
Summer visit to onsen to me was skeptical.
But visiting Kusatsu was not a bad choice.
Rain during summer season in Japan is quite unpredictable. So, we had dark clouds overhead which did not make summer hard around the boiling sulphur water.
There is a Ashiyu (Foot Bath) just beside Yubatake for you to relax.
There is a 7-11 just beside Yubatake.
Also, there are various other Japanese food stalls, authentic Japanese Omiyage (gifts) shops while walk through Yukitaki Streets.
And lot of Onsen resorts in and around Yubatake.
Reshma Soiru — Google review
Night colors are magical, has Michael Jackson's thriller vibes. The rising steam and emerald waters are pleasant to watch. Nearby foot baths are nice too.
Hallelujah — Google review
Absolutely stunning and magical place.
Love the color of the water, the smell of the hot spring, the colorful lights at night, and the magnificent sound of the rushing hot spring. I must have walked around Yubatake 5 or 6 times nights and days, looking at it from different angles.
If only I could visit this place every weekend, I would.
Foliageink TTX — Google review
The coolest destination in Gunma prefecture. There’s some good energy here. There’s many dining options, attractions, and photo opportunities available . If it’s not on your “bucket list”, it should be.
Parking. There’s free parking and toilets close to the roadside station (zip-line/ski area) walking down is not difficult or long at all.
Aaron E — Google review
硫黄泉好きならずっとここにいたいくらいの場所です。
源泉の香りを味わいながら、その流れを見て、
湯気を浴びていると入っているかのような気分になります。
人は多いけど大満足でした♪
(Translated by Google)
If you like sulfur springs, you will want to stay here forever.
While enjoying the scent of the source, watching the flow,
Bathing in the steam makes you feel as if you are inside.
There were many people, but I was very satisfied ♪
Takashi T — Google review
This open plaza and the yubatake are centrally located in Kusatsu. There are restaurants, souvenir shops, and even the Yumomi Show building surrounding it. It is beautiful during the day and night, with illuminations during the latter. The foot bath next to it is a great place to stop and take a rest too.
Rachel Boatwright — Google review
Quite special place! Maybe best at winter? For sure need to book room far in advance if you want to stay for a night and enjoy local onsen, especially long holiday weekend.
LFI 06 — Google review
wow! Finally, Ive been here in this very famous onsen in Gunma. How good to spend my golden week here in this place. I highly recommend this place to visit. By the way, you cannot use your IC card going here, you need to buy a ticket
Ardith Telewik — Google review
The performance wasn't very long. A lot of filler with a lengthy introduction and long line to wait to buy tickets and to be seated. You cannot repurchase tickets online. We caught the 3:30pm performance and had to start waiting around 2:40pm at the box office to wait until they sell tickets at 3pm. Then waited another half hour while seated for the performance to begin. There's no obvious sign for where to line up for tickets so even though we were first to arrive, later 8 people got in front of us because apparently we lined up at the wrong window. But we still managed to get front and centre seats. A lot of reviews complain about the intro but we just used Google translate to listen to the mc and were able to piece together what she was saying and enjoyed it a lot more that way. There is a coupon on their website for 50cents off.
Sapphire Hogan — Google review
It was amazing and once-in-a-lifetime memory that a traditional way of cooling a hot spring could be this much gorgeous even if it built hundreads of years ago.
I think most great moment is morning. Just after sunrise, hot spring's steam will fly to sun and you can enjoy warm foot bath with great scenery.
라선생 — Google review
It’s the best play for relaxation. Everything is good but the smell of the chemicals is so strong it makes you feel weird.i stayed at the villa, at night it’s kinda scary that at the jungle you living alone there😅my best opinion is that if you are single or couples best to stayed at hotel but villa is best option for groups.its also cheap to stay at villa .
DJENTlemen — Google review
Ubatake boasts a variety of shops, yet a subtle sulfur scent permeates the area. While exploring, take the opportunity for a leisurely walk around, but be mindful that the distinct odor might linger in the surroundings. Despite the sulfur smell, the diverse range of shops provides an intriguing experience for visitors. The unique offerings within the area make it worth venturing through, allowing one to immerse themselves in the local ambiance.
The sulfur odor, while present, doesn't overshadow the charm of the place. It's advisable to allocate some time for a casual stroll, savoring the offerings while being aware of the lingering scent. This distinctive characteristic might be a part of the locality's natural features, contributing to its identity and adding a peculiar element to the overall experience.
Ultimately, the exploration of Ubatake, though accompanied by a faint sulfur aroma, offers a delightful blend of shops and local charm. It's an opportunity to discover a unique side of the area, provided one takes the time to embrace its offerings while acknowledging the particular olfactory element that accompanies the visit."
Num Tnn — Google review
Absolutely stunning at day and night. This onsen town has some small shops and restaurants which you could easily spend a day here. But worth staying here overnight
Yvonne Lau — Google review
1st ranking onsen town in Japan, definitely worth to pay a visit here. The only cons was the inconvenience of getting here by either bus or self drive , no train can even reach nearby this tiny little town.
kunlam86 — Google review
Memorable place to visit with great old town scenery. Only one thing is the place must go down from the hell with slope. To come here by public transportation with a large luggage is not recommended. Need to connect different way of public transportation to reach here.
Rintrlapas Lertsirikajorn — Google review
I went in march so it was snowy. It's a beautiful place to enjoy a hot spring. The area is pretty small so in just a day I walked the entire place. There are a lot of different shops to spend the day eating but many are packed so remember to go early to avoid long queues. I recommend visiting in winter time, the snow and the cold helps to enjoy more the very scalding temperatures of the hot springs. Oh ! every Friday evening there is a public onsen open for mix genders and families that you can wear your own swimsuit and cost around ¥800.
Ale Lay — Google review
4.5
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4.5
(1421)
401 Kusatsu, Agatsuma District, Gunma 377-1711, Japan
The Snow Monkey Park, also known as Jigokudani Yaen Koen, is a secluded park where visitors can get an up-close view of snow monkeys. However, a recent report describes the experience as disappointing. Despite this, there are still recommendations for making the most out of your visit if you decide to go anyway. Alternatively, Kenruko-en Garden in Kanazawa offers a peaceful and visually stunning alternative destination while visiting Japan.
Free parking is available for the monkey park. It’s about a 30 minute flat walk to the entryway that is not paved. I would recommend shoes for hiking. Although it was a Saturday when we visited, we arrived at 8:30 and entered at 9:00 when the park opened. We had the place to ourselves for about 45 minutes undisturbed. At the time, only two monkeys were inside the onsen however many monkeys were around or near the water. The monkeys themselves are not aggressive and left you alone without incident. I rather enjoyed watching the babies play and the mothers cling to the babies for protection. Overall, I am happy to see the snow monkeys relatively crowd free.
Annie Sobol — Google review
The hike up to the monkeys was very beautiful! And the snow monkeys are definitely worth the visit! The pool they are in is much smaller than expected but nonetheless enjoyed the experience. Just a tip, the path in winter is slippery at the beginning, so I would recommend bringing shoes with good grip and spikes. We had flat shoes and after we made it up the first steps, we were fine the rest of the way. But would've definitely felt safer with some more snow-suited boots!
Zane Holmes — Google review
Visited this place during winter in January. My visit was a captivating blend of natural beauty and adorable wildlife. The chilly weather was undeniable but the sight of the snow covered landscape and endearing snow monkeys enjoying a hot bath in their natural habitate more than made up for it.
The journey to the park itself was an adventure, through picturesque trails that added an element of excitement to the experience. Upon arriving at the park's ♨️ springs, the sight of the 🐒🐵 soaking in warm waters was an absolute delight.
Vincent F. — Google review
Great park, easy hike to see a bunch of snow monkeys.
There are many baby monkeys as well. They are so cute and naughty.
A tip, if you take bus to get there with luggage, you can store them at the museum cafe next to the bus stop.
Sheng Song — Google review
Amazing experience being up close with the Snow Monkeys (which are actually Japanese Macaques). They are indifferent to human presence so you will have no trouble going up to them to take pictures, though the guideline is to stay at least 1 meter away to respect their space. It's a little surreal, almost like humans are invisible. There's a 20 to 30 minutes trek up to the park on foot, so traveling light is best if visiting. If you're staying at the hotels nearby, ask the reception about the park and they might give you discount coupons which makes the park admission tickets cheaper.
Wong Yi — Google review
To reach the Snow Monkey Park, you'll need to walk around 1.6km. In winter, ensure you wear waterproof hiking or trekking shoes. While the park isn't large, the scenery is breathtaking, and you can watch the snow monkeys enjoying a hot spring. Remember not to bring food inside, follow the rules, and avoid disturbing the wild monkeys. There are no restaurants within or near the park; they're only available near the parking lot, so please plan accordingly.
Ghifaroza R. — Google review
Compared to other attractions in Japan it wasn’t that crowded maybe because the snow monkey is a little bit of a walk. Which I appreciate a lot. Not overly packed. The staff could have been a bit nicer. But overall I highly recommend!
Very natural surroundings it felt real when exploring the area. I could do it again. Monkey can be aggressive.
So it is better exercising caution around them.
Tahnee Stockhem — Google review
A bit far from everything else. The walk to the monkey park is about 20 minutes and along a beautiful path surrounded by trees. Admission tickets are 800 yen for adults. Although the monkeys roam freely, there are a few areas that are marked off. You can enjoy seeing them without getting too close as they can be quite aggressive.
Alexis Busso — Google review
Amazing place in the winter! The park with the monkeys are not big, but so worth it. Monkeys are very cute, not aggressive and totally ignores people and just goes about their business as always. You park the car, go for a 2 km hike through amazing nature, and you end up with the most fantastic group of monkeys take the full spa treatment.. And it's wild monkeys, no fence, no feeding them, the can go as they please.. It costs 800 yen per adult and is worth all and then some..
Carsten Heinmann — Google review
We went in the summer and it was a great day. Easy trip from Tokyo by bullet train. Less crowded in the summer and fun for children as well. The walk in is beautiful and an easy, well maintained trail.
Clint Collins — Google review
It's a must on your bucket list if you love monkeys. I caught the Limited express Snow Monkey from Nagano Station and got on the local bus which drops you off. Walk about 10min, past the cafe (where you will have the best apple ice cream in the world) up past a gift shop. The stairs next to it will take you to the Park roughly about 30min walk. What a beautiful walk once you are there the monkeys will not disappoint, I was there from 2pm. Make sure you check the live Web Cam and see yourself 😆🐒. PS so so Mandy babies 🤣
Marc B — Google review
Traversing the autumn landscape of Snow Monkey Park, where the absence of snow didn't diminish the enchantment. Although it was raining and the muddy paths posed a challenge, the availability of boot rentals came to the rescue, ensuring our comfort during the journey. The cold air, the quiet forest, and the decision to offer boots showcased the park's commitment to visitor satisfaction. As we approached the hot springs, the rain added a mystical quality to the setting, making the playful antics of the snow monkeys even more captivating. Despite the weather's unpredictability, the thoughtful details, like boot rentals, made the visit to Snow Monkey Park a truly enjoyable adventure.
Colleen Plumb — Google review
I have heard about this like most people so decided to take a tour to see the Snow Monkeys. It’s about 3 1/2 hours from Tokyo Shinjuku. Once we got there there is a little bit of a walk to get to the monkeys. ( 1 mile each way from the entrance) It’s about a 20 minute walk but be careful as there was a lot of ice and snow. When you see the geyser ( which is pretty interesting in itself) you are almost there. A few more steps up. There wasn’t a lot of snow but lots of monkeys. A few were in the water but it was really nice to finally be able to see them. You have to go at least once.
M H — Google review
Definitely worth a visit amidst the touristy feel. It’s been warm the last few days, hence not icy and more like muddy. But safer to walk, did not need spikes. We were lucky to have a few of them, especially the grandfather (last photo) in the on a warm day. On the way down don’t forget to stop by at Enza Cafe for their homemade apple pie…. Simply awesome…
Danny Leong — Google review
This is a really well run and maintained park. The monkeys are amazingly docile because of the complete lack of interaction with humans over the years.
In winter, they bathe a lot in the pool constructed for them which is very cute. You can get very close so there's lots of opportunities for great pictures.
It's a long cold walk, but the path up the mountain is well maintained. It's well worth it! You don't often get the opportunity to see nature this up close and personal. They close at 4PM so don't start your walk too late!
Drew Carroll — Google review
A bucket list destination if you have the opportunity while visiting Japan. You can easily get lost in nature and most of the visuals make you feel like you working for national geographic. The walk to the park from the bus stop was about 40 minutes. We went in early January and the weather was beautiful. It costs ¥800 for adults to enter but it was worth every yenny. I highly recommend visiting this park as it's a once in a lifetime experience.
Elias Chelala — Google review
We visited despite the weather being really rainy and we are so glad we did!
The way up, despite the poor weather, was no problem since it was very well maintained. The path up is easy to traverse. We were also pleased with the little shop and the facilities.
You can get really close to the animals and if you follow the guidelines, you are absolutely safe. Experiencing the monkeys up close really is something special.
The animals are not caged and can leave if they want to.
Overall I can more than recommend the experience.
Andreas Waltinger — Google review
Wow!!!! Definitely worth a visit, even coming to the area just for this experience. There are so many monkeys once you reach the onsen, they bathe there, have little fights, play - it was lovely to watch them. We were lucky enough to see a lot of baby monkeys as well (march-may I think is a good time to go). The weather wasn't perfect but there were still a lot of monkeys for all the visitors to see. 800 yen is also a fair price. The 'hike' there is very easy, also with kids or even a wheelchair. There are restrooms next to the park.
San R. — Google review
It was nice to visit. Make sure you have good boots for a muddy trail. More interesting in the colder months definitely because the monkeys won’t bath when it’s warm. The walk to the park is really nice and has only a couple of steep parts, so it’s really easy. Watching the monkeys go about their business is really adorable. The entrance fee was 800 JPY in 2023, which I found a bit high for what you get. If I visited again, I would come in the winter/early spring.
Iiro V — Google review
I really really really loved it here! It was way more fun then expected. I ended up staying 5 hours in total here. The monkeys mind their own business and they pretty much act like you aren't there.
There were a lot of babies as well. Which I found super cute. A couple of them also ended up bathing amd playing in the hot springs which was really fun to see.
Luckily it wasn't that busy when I visited. But next time i would love to come during the winter!
Bram esendam — Google review
5 stars for the very cute monkeys. 2 stars for getting there. Bus drops at main road so need to walk in. Very convenient taxi service from Yudanaka Station cost <2000 yen. But need to book a return ride. Then walk 1.5km along a nature trail, when wet is muddy. Don't wear anything new. Still worth visiting.
Edwin Chong — Google review
Snow Monkeys Park offers a unique, albeit slightly crowded, experience. The park, though small in size, is a treasure trove for nature lovers. The pathway to the park is scenic, leading to the extraordinary sight of snow monkeys in their natural hot spring habitat. Despite the limited space occasionally feeling crowded, the opportunity to observe these photogenic monkeys up close is unparalleled. The staff's dedication is commendable, and the facilities are well-maintained. Overall, it's a must-visit for an unforgettable glimpse into the serene world of these charming creatures. A truly remarkable, photogenic encounter!
Josh (SaltyNomadicLife) — Google review
Must visit place if you are coming to Japan in January or February. From the bus stop to the the snow monkey park the road was narrow and covered with snow. It was slippery. Finally when you will reach to the snow monkey park you will be happy to see those cute well mannered monkeys. They are really special. They soak their bodies in the hot spring water and they are camera friendly. They will look at your camera in a nice way.
Archi H — Google review
Its a long long walk on a slippery path. Took us almost and hour one way to walk 1.8 kilometers.
The pool with the monkeys is great once you get there. Probably spent half an hour and then had to do the 1 hour walk back.
Maybe it's better without snow. But then again: your coming to see the snow monkeys.
Matthijs — Google review
You MUST do this!!! This was a once in a lifetime experience. It is a large hike up a steep street. Then you go up some steps. At the top it flattens out. You the have a long but fairly flat and very muddy walk along a trail. At the end of the trail there is a flight of extremely steep steps. At the top it flattens out again and you walk up a concreted slope to a hut. On the other side of the hut is the monkey park! It is amazing!!! You need good knees to do this and you must be sturdy on your feet. It is ok to go slow! Well worth the effort for the incredible experience!!!
Sandi Grace — Google review
We went in middle of March . Didn’t expect the snow fall and it was magical experience indeed. Then you see the cute snow monkeys relaxing in the hot spring. What a perfect moment.! You can check online to see if the snow monkeys are there. They have live broadcasting website to confirm sightings. Highly recommended
Leah Camarello — Google review
Winter January 2024
Walking up the snowy track was breathtaking. Amazing view and many beautiful scenery for photo shooting. It's 1.8km one way and takes about 45 minutes. However, give it extra for taking photos.
Once you've reached the top, the village is spectacular, and every step you've climbed is worth it.
The monkeys are friendly. However, do not carry food or drink as the smell or aroma may attract them. There'll be T&C at the ticket counter for patrons to take cautions when visiting.
I would recommend this place to visit, especially when you've not seen monkeys in hot spas before. And definitely the view and scenery.
Joel Chia — Google review
Please do not visit this place. If you truly care about animals, avoid visiting the Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park. It is a tourist trap that is really affecting their habitat. They cannot be called wild if staff members feed them, making them fight for food just to keep them around to please tourists who want a good photo, they cannot be called wild if we cared about a good photo + tourism more than conservation, and they cannot be called wild by having hundred of cameras in front of them every second for 7 hours day by day… that’s is so sad and I truly regret my visit, it was not was I was expecting. I hope people start thinking it twice and making a good research about this place before visiting, I thought I did but in fact, I was wrong.
Eliana Vanegas — Google review
Visit the place when the snow started to melt. Be prepare to walk over the muddy path that takes about 20-25 min walk to reach the ticket entrance. Definitely worth the visit to see how the monkey enjoy the hot onsen. Admission - 800Yen . Parking fee - Free
david ng — Google review
This is a very popular tourist attraction year round. We got there by bus just like most of the other people. It's roughly a 40 minute walk from the bus stop to the snow monkeys park. Part of the trail can be muddy and slippery due to rain or snow, so wear appropriate footwear as suggested by the other reviewers. Luckily the trail is mostly flat, we made it there without much difficulty even in the snow.
It's definitely worth the walk. We saw plenty of monkeys inside the park. Most of them were soaking or just hanging around the hot spring. The others were cuddling or running around the riversides. It got a little bit crowded around the hot spring, but there was enough room for everyone to get a good view and shots of the monkeys.
Stephen Lam — Google review
We loved this place. We went there during the winter in January and were afraid that there would be too many tourists but it was alright. You have a small hike from the parking of 20-25min and just this is already really nice to do. Beautiful views in a snowy forest. There were so many monkeys it was impressive. It’s really magical with those hot onsen and all the monkeys walking around. Be careful and don’t touch them though ! Vibes are immaculate
Nicoflamme 99 — Google review
4.5
(8480)
•
4.5
(2740)
6845 Hirao, Yamanochi, Shimotakai District, Nagano 381-0401, Japan
Nozawa Onsen Snow Resort is a winter sports destination that offers skiing and snowboarding opportunities, equipment rentals, on-mountain dining options, and a bustling village. This resort is ideal for beginners as it provides an environment that is friendly to new skiers. Hiromi from Snow Crystal Yoga and Wellness can assist in arranging everything needed for your trip, including ski passes and lessons. The resort also boasts some unique experiences like having dogs on the slopes!
It's a really great getaway from Tokyo. This place has so many spots to go and is super close to all the things you need. The ticket and rental is not too bad either. Unfortunately, we came in late March so the snow is kinda melting already
Valentino Rocco — Google review
Great ski resort, easily accessible from Tokyo (shinkansen and then express bus). The slopes are great and the town itself is very quaint with tons of onsens and great restaurants. No problem if you speak no Japanese either. Only real complaint is that some of the connectivity between lifts is a bit weird. There are a number of "connector" lifts to help get you over little ridges so sometimes instead of just skiing down to the lift you want, you have to skate for a bit and take another short lift. Also, wouldn't necessarily recommend this place for total beginners since there's not a lot of ways for beginners get off the top of the mountain. (There *are* ways though so it's not a deal breaker). Terrain park options are also a bit slim. Overall though, I'd still highly recommend this resort.
Michael Mauer — Google review
A great resort with plenty of runs and good off piste parts. Great POW when it snows , highly recommend for a traditional town who plenty of local Japanese attributes, cheap lift pass as well.
Only a handful of restaurants actually on the mountain, but more on the bottom , with fair prices for food and drink.
Kieron Tang — Google review
A wonderful snow resort. It was my first time skiing, and it's very beginner friendly. We had a blast!
Hiromi from Snow Crystal Yoga and Wellness organized our whole trip, arranging our rentals, lessons, and ski passes. Highly recommend using her services if you don't want the hassel of arranging everything, especially if you don't speak Japanese well.
Brittany — Google review
Amazon snow resort! Totally loved it. The slopes were great, less crowded compared to other famous mountains. The gondolas were brand new and quite fast! They even have an amazing park for practicing tricks and stuff. I would totally visit again.
Rohit Chakraborty — Google review
Love the snow and slopes at nozawa onsen! Thick and fluffy snow, with plenty of long and wide green slopes. Which are good for beginners. Still preserved well to keep local tourist and business active. They’ve multiple stations and beginner slopes for both ski n snowboarding. Highly recommended!
Price - okay
Location - great, 2 hours Shinkansen from Tokyo
Snow - amazing
Cleanliness - great
Thy do not have blue slopes. Thy have plenty Forrest trail for skiing too.
Mavis Chuah — Google review
Fantastic experience snowboarding here for three days. Two gondolas that may shut down for high winds. Well marked trails. Nice places for lunch or coffee at various locations on the mountain.
Tony Han — Google review
Lovely ski resort - there were dogs on some of the slopes the day I went!! Not sure why but they were SO cute. I guess you can bring your dog here???
Reagan B — Google review
This resort is my favorite place on earth. I am so glad that it is quite close to Tokyo and easy to access for a weekend. The runs are amazing, and there are plenty of trees to play in. Huge resort with two gondolas. Can’t ask for much more!
Mary — Google review
A great resort town that is authentic and full of hidden character. Some of the best snow, best food, and best people here. Enjoyed some touring with Experience Nozawa guides and the hidden yakitori restaurant was amazing. Great snow conditions too!!!
Maria Baker — Google review
Great resort, plenty of runs that will takes days and days to explore. A really cool village vibe. The mountain is 1650m so plenty of vertical to snowboard and at the half way point of the mountain plenty of mild blue runs for the family. Great cat trail runs from the top that keep you entertainedand challenged as to how fast you can decend, Skyline is an amazing long run to the bottom. You won't be disappointed!
Justin paris — Google review
20 April 2023: Had a great skiing day! To give some info: I was afraid that the snow would be totally gone, however as of 20 April the higher slopes are still available. These are 2 lifts and around 5 slopes which 4 are of medium difficulty and 1 a bit harder. Good fun for 3 hours. Price info: full day skiing around 4.800 yen, 4 hours pass: 4.200 yen, ski rental just infront of the lift has ski gear and shoes for 2.800 yen for half a day. Next time I come back before April so all the slopes are open:) I came for a day from Tokyo by train and bus. Cheers!
Daan Versloot — Google review
The Nozawa Onsen Snow Resort is one of the largest snow resorts in Japan. It has the longest ski slope 11km in Japan.
I often visit by car and park at the Park 1, which is next to the longest gondola lift, for 1,000 yen for the weekend. It seems the Park 2 and 3 are always free, these parks are a bit far away but one or more free buses are available from the parks to the gondola.
The area is very large and the slopes are wide and so long, so you can ski with your children without any worries. However, there is a lot of walking and climbing around lift stations and at the connections between the slopes and or areas. When I visit with my children, I wonder whether we are skiing or walking.
Please note if visiting with a pre-school child. The child is not issued a ticket as they are free to ride the lift, so the child has to go through the gate with a parent or a companion, but once holding up the ticket, the time between the gate opening and closing again is very short. Therefore, I met several times that only the child went through the gate and I could not. There were no staff around the gate and it was very difficult. Improvements requested.
The snow resort is really huge and one day is not enough to enjoy. Nozawa village also has great hot springs, I want to revisit here for a longer stay to enjoy the whole resort.
Shige SHIMOYAMA — Google review
Small village/town with a lot of tourists who come for the ski resort. There's a lot of local restaurants a short walk from the ski resort and the snow was really powdery and soft during January. Although there has been a lack of snow which didn't seem like an issue to me since the snow in Australia set a very low standard
Sandra Fu — Google review
Scenery was beautiful. Awesome powdered snow. There are varied runs of different difficulties and lengths.
Antonio Xu — Google review
Fabulous resort surrounding a cute town with 13 onsens free to use at any time. Restaurants in town get very busy so you'll need to book. Food on the slopes is high quality and well priced. There is ski rental in various places. Ski runs can be very long. Lots of lifts and options for intermediate skiers.
Beatrice Cheer — Google review
Stunning scenery and we were blessed with best snow I’ve seen in years 🤩 rental center is quite good also, well organised and gear is decently maintained
Alexei Anisimov — Google review
Super beautiful ski resort with onsen in town. The town is super quaint. Would love to go again
Jingwei Zhou — Google review
4.6
(3653)
•
4.5
(752)
7653 Toyosato, Nozawaonsen, Shimotakai District, Nagano 389-2502, Japan
The Echigo Sake Museum Ponshukan is a unique sake tasting bar located inside JR Echigo Yuzawa. This unconventional establishment features coin-operated dispensers offering a vast variety of sake, as well as rice balls and local souvenirs. The shop is easily recognizable by its mascot, a large drunken figure lying in front. Visitors are provided with tasting cups upon entry and can also enjoy delicious Japanese cucumbers seasoned with various salts.
For all sake lovers, this is sake heaven on earth!!! There are more than 100 types of sake to sample from. ¥500 gets you 5 tokens. Each sample is approximately 1 token. The bespoke sake may require more than 3 tokens. There is no reason not to like this place. Super love!!!
Elena L — Google review
I could not appreciate sake until I came here. They rate them with dryness, aroma, and richness. I got a sake that was 5 star dry and 1 star aroma/richness and then got one with 1 star dry and 4 star aroma/richness. You can tell the difference with each one. It's a smaller place and when it was crowded, a lot of people were standing in front of the sake dispenser even if they were just drinking. It made it harder to get to the sake I wanted to try and to read the name plate and description.
Greg Caliwag — Google review
1st time trying sake sampling machine! 500 yen for 5 coins, and most of the sake costs you 1-3 coins, i.e. 100-300 yen each. So it's not that cheap compared to other local sake stores, but there are plenty of sake choices than other shops. It's an interesting experience that you must try once.
Victor Li — Google review
Amazing sake brewery tour in English. The guide is extremely friendly and knowledgeable. They can give many cool facts about sake that are hard to learn about otherwise! There's even a fun photo opportunity at the end of the tour, as well as an excellent sake tasting experience!
Amy Yuka Vogenthaler — Google review
Service really bad towards non Japanese. Sake taste also just as unfriendly. Go to the Niigata or Nagaoka station branches. Too many foreigners around Echigo and the staff are not having it.
Donpen The — Google review
You exchange ¥500 for 5 gold-coin tokens and then use those tokens in the vending machines.
There is more than enough sake to choose from. Nearly 100 sake to choose from! You can also choose Shōchū and I believe I saw wine but we were there for the sake.
You can also get cucumbers to munch on. You can either have that with various types of salt or miso paste.
Water is available to cleanse your pallet.
Very enjoyable and heaven if you love sake!
Jenny D — Google review
We can enjoy many kinds of sake with only 500 yen. It was too crowded with many tourists... The selection is very plentiful, so I could not enjoy everything but each of them have various characters. It is because I like sake the best. You can buy it if you find sake you like.
Hiro Pon — Google review
A wealth of samples with Niigata nihonshu, wine and umeshu. Anyone can stay longer and chat with friends while waiting for your train home.
Ricaleen Celeste-Mendoza — Google review
I give it a 5 star! It’s so awesome where you can taste literally all sake made by the neighbours!
Jean Sheung — Google review
Nice place for sake tasting. For those that wonder how it works. You pass by the cashier and for 500¥ you get 5 coins. They give you a cup and you are able to serve yourself. Some sake required one coin and can go up to four. You are able to taste a lot of different sake from different regions and there is also wine.
Cédrick Nault — Google review
A place for sake tasting. Located inside JR Echigo Yuzawa. A really weird and spectacular place. Too many kinds of sake were presented as vending machine. At first while you enter the staff will give you tasting cups. Japanese cucumbers with too many kinds of salt was so delicious. Always crowded. The shop was easily saw. You will see their mascot, the large figure of drunken guy lay down in front of the shop.
Ruby Lib — Google review
Enjoying walking around the souvenir shops inside JR Echigo-Yuzawa Station.
There are a lot of local foods, sweats and Japanese sake as well as local restaurants.
Great place to visit and enjoy!
From web site
Drink Deep. You’re in the Snow Country.
The Ponshukan Saké Tasting Room features nearly 100 types of saké from Niigata’s 90 breweries. Arranged by geographic location, take your pick from among seasonal specials, staff recommendations, or whichever labels happen to catch your eye.
Visitors can pay ¥500 at the door to receive a saké cup and five tasting coins. Sample up to five cups of saké or use multiple tasting coins to sample from a selection of premium saké.
As the microbrewery saké capital of Japan, there is no better place to experience saké than Niigata.
KIICHIRO KOBORI — Google review
There are 130 coin operated vending machines to choose from. Most of them dispense sake, but they also do soju, plum wine and red wines as well. Coins are 100 yen each. Most machines take 1 coin, and premium drinks are 2 or more.
There is space to put your bags or coats if you don’t want to carry them around, but nothing is secured, so do so at your own risk.
The staff are polite and accommodating.
Lorne Inglis — Google review
We stopped by the ponshukan on our first day in the area. There is a wide variety of sake to choose from, as well as some shochu and other tipples.
You exchange ¥500 for 5 gold-coin tokens and then use those tokens in the dispensing machines. We went through 15 gold-coins each. Some dispensers cost more than one coin, there are a good number of 2-coin machines and even one 7-coin machine! (We didn't try that one) If you want to get the most out of your coins, then there are plenty of 1-coin machines that have some great tasting sake. My favourite (number 69) was actually a 1-coin machine.
There are cucumbers and salt available as pallete-cleansers, but I opted for having an occasional water after some of the particularly strong tasting options.
There is no seating, it's standing room only. Which makes sense as customers (and you) will be moving back and forth to sample a number of drinks.
Fair warning: Beware of the alcohol % of number 95!
Wex Viator — Google review
A nice sake shop. You can also buy other Omiage, also the very big Onigiris (Rice Balls).
It’s in the station, so you can reach it very fast.
Ryusei Hosono — Google review
Great variety of Sake and other liquors to choose from. 130 types in total. ¥500 gives you 5 coins, most of the sakes are 1 coin per cup. The premium ones are 2 coins and above. Definitely worth a visit if you're around the area.
Donald Teo — Google review
Waiting for my Shinkansen I walked in, amazed at how many sake you can sample
500jpy for 5 coins and you are given a small cup
Recommended sakes are on the wall, but there are some I wanted to try that are here
Some same cost more than one coin
Had great fun trying different sake, as ppl know Niigata is famous for sake
Kevin KW — Google review
Conveniently located right at the train station. Managed a quick visit right before boarding our Shinkansen - and chanced upon this really awesome umeshu (which I ended up purchasing from the store).
A must-go if you are a Sake fan! There are SO MANY types of sake to test! ❤️
Emi G — Google review
The price was 500 yen and you get 5 coins in return, the sake cost 1-2 coins depending on the type, there's a recommended sake list on the board if you dont know where to start. Was very fun! This way you can really tell the difference between types of sake
Rama Dana — Google review
Fun and inventive sake tasting experience. Pay the fee, get cups and coins then start tasting!
Suggestions are on the wall in English and Japanese.
It's more tasting than museum, don't let y the name fool you.
Joel Buchanan — Google review
4.3
(2291)
•
4.5
(340)
2427ー3 Yuzawa, Minamiuonuma District, Niigata 949-6101, Japan
Tsuruga-jō is a reconstructed castle, resembling a 14th-century structure that provides picturesque views and encompasses five floors of historical exhibits. The museum offers insights into the region's crucial role in the country's history for hundreds of years, including its significance as the last fortress of the old regime. Visiting on a rainy Monday morning meant no lines or wait times, and I thoroughly enjoyed learning about this area's past.
It’s basically a five story museum with a really nice view at the top. I learned a lot about the local history. I had no idea how important and strategic this region was for the country for hundreds of years. I also didn’t know that it was kind of the last hold out of the old regime. I came in on Monday morning when it was raining so there was no line and no wait. I’m really glad I spent a few hours here. I learned a lot and would happily recommend it to anyone in the area. Not sure how it is on the weekends once the cherry blossoms start to bloom but I can say for sure that in early April on a weekday it is a must see destination.
Vince Prep — Google review
This castle is one of the plain looking ones that I’ve been to but it does look elegant. You won’t need to spend too much time here, maybe just an hour. There is a gift shop at the castle where you can buy some souvenirs. There is also parking nearby.
Celestine — Google review
戊辰戦争の地、鶴ヶ城でいかに激しい戦闘だったのかがよくわかる。駐車場がわかりやすく、本丸奥あります。石垣の壁を越えてお堀の中に入り、また石垣を越えてその奥に駐車場がある。この段々城に入っていく流れがいい。このような石垣内の堀の中にある駐車場は数少ない。そこから徒歩で数分で場内に入れます。最上階からの眺めも大変いいです。戊辰戦争の説明は、詳しく、会津藩の立場がよくわかります。戊辰戦争は、なぜ起きたのかと、読む人の胸に迫ったくる。会津藩出身の偉人が明治期に入って多数輩出されたことの説明もあり、明治期の日本の勉強になる。城主が、保科から松平に姓が変わった背景にも説明してあった。
(Translated by Google)
You can clearly see how fierce the battle was at Tsuruga Castle, the site of the Boshin War. The parking lot is easy to find and is located at the back of the main enclosure. Go over the stone wall and enter the moat, then cross the stone wall again and there is a parking lot behind it. I like the flow of entering the castle step by step. There are only a few parking lots like this inside the moat inside the stone wall. From there, you can enter the venue in a few minutes on foot. The view from the top floor is also very nice. The explanation of the Boshin War is detailed and makes it easy to understand the position of the Aizu clan. The reader will be struck by the question of why the Boshin War occurred. There is also an explanation that many great people from the Aizu domain were produced during the Meiji period, and this is a great way to study Japan during the Meiji period. It also explains why the castle lord changed his surname from Hoshina to Matsudaira.
トオルイカラシ — Google review
One of the 100 famous castles. Located in the city, it is easily accessible. From the parking lot in the moat, it is a short walk up Umezaka to the castle tower. The vast grounds of the palace ruins and the location of the castle tower are excellent. Starting from the salt storehouse inside the stone walls, you can view the historical documents on each floor before heading to the top floor. You can see Mt. Iimoriyama.
Youji Nomo — Google review
When visiting the castle in the early morning we had a great time. With a permission we could fly our drone around the castle and inside we could enjoy the detailed museum without crowds. The content explanation is in Japanese but also various other languages like English and Chinese, so many people can enjoy it
Japan meine Liebe (Sayu) — Google review
The castle looks fantastic at night with the spotlights on during the autumn season. In comparison, the day views of the fall foliage in the Tsurugajo City Park are more appealing. Parking fees are 300 Yen for 2 hours. Or, it takes about 30 minutes (2.8km) to walk from the Aizuwakamatsu Station. 1105-06
So Jo Urn — Google review
One of the pretty decent castle in Japan. Not as nice as osaka castle but very similar in size and shape. Did not get to enter but just looking at the surrounding area from the outside. You just need to pay for parking for 300 yen. Need to buy another ticket to enter. We arrived late at 4pm. Places starting to close but we are allowed to wonder around outside the castle.
Budiyono Ong — Google review
鶴ヶ城
🐶ワンちゃんも入城できますが、お城の中まで、入れません。
🏯お城の周りをのんびりと散歩できます。
🏯有料駐車場があります。
🏯会津の有名なお城
🏯お城は、改装が終わり綺麗になっています。
😊 白虎隊で有名なお城
(Translated by Google)
Tsuruga Castle
🐶Dogs can also enter the castle, but they cannot go inside the castle.
🏯You can take a leisurely walk around the castle.
🏯There is a paid parking lot.
🏯Famous castles in Aizu
🏯The castle has been renovated and is now beautiful.
😊 Castle famous for Byakkotai
katsu Katsu — Google review
It was a really nice place to go have a look around. The tickets were more than fairly priced and castle grounds themselves were extremly neat and well cared for. The history of the castle was very interesting and well presented. I had a really nice time.
Its a shame that so many tourists around japan are rude, especially at tourist attractions.
Micah Kujawski — Google review
Don’t need to buy ticket in advance. From outside, it looks beautiful but inside is a bit disappointed. I expect to see how did the Lord live in the past, for example how did they eat and work. Inside is just a list of history events.
V? Minh Th?ng — Google review
The outside of the castle is beautiful. The museum inside is well made, but I don't know if it's worth it if you don't speak japanese. Very few of the information were translated in english.
Sophie Solioz — Google review
Beautiful grounds. Not much English written on the descriptions inside the castle so you might want to read ahead to have an overview of what happened. 30 minutes walk from Aizuwakamatsu station. There’s also a tour bus with single tickets 270 yen or a day pass 600 yen that stops at the main tourist sites.
Nicole Carr — Google review
2023.11
新潟からワンコと共に。
🅿️西側の駐車場、舗装はされてない🅿️で料金は300円。
反対側の方が舗装されてる駐車場が有ります。
城内は無料で、お城の中に入るのに料金がかかります。
城内には、自販機や茶屋が有ります。
紅葉時期なので、けっこうなお客さん。
また、🌸春にでも来たいですね。
(Translated by Google)
2023.11
With a dog from Niigata.
🅿️The parking lot on the west side is not paved🅿️ and the fee is 300 yen.
There is a paved parking lot on the opposite side.
Admission to the castle is free, but there is a fee to enter the castle.
There are vending machines and a tea shop inside the castle.
Since it's the autumn leaves season, there are quite a few customers.
I would like to come again in the spring.
かずよ — Google review
The castle was opened at night from 3/2-10/2 for winter festival. Tickets were sold on site without a queue. It was a completely different experience with lights up compared to daytime. There was a mini festival with food stalls and an area for people to eat. Amazing place to visit!
Venus Lee — Google review
It was really pleasant walking around the Castle grounds and admiring the Castle's magnificence. Luckily for us the weather was unseasonably warm and dry with sunshine.
Inside the Castle itself there is lots of historical information and plenty in English too, all wonderfully presented. We learnt an extensive amount about the Castle, the Boshin War, the Byakkotai and more. It was quite an emotional journey through history.
The gift shop was well stocked with souvenirs, foods, sake and other drinks.
Jenny D — Google review
Very beautiful castle for an Autumn visit. I also believe in Spring it is surrounded by cherry blossoms. Included in the ticket price for the castle is entry to the tea ceremony garden, where for an extra 800 yen you can actually have some tea and dessert. What really disappointed me about this castle was the lack of translation available. That sounds so pretentious going to a foreign country and expecting English everywhere, but the Japanese government wants to encourage tourism outside of the major cities. Through the castle grounds most signs had English, Chinese and Korean (as well as Japanese of course). But inside the castle was only Japanese. I love history, and the history of this castle is very interesting, but trying to Google translate every single thing is annoying. Even if I could purchase an audio guide I would be happy. At the end of the day I would definitely still go. I also timed it badly as I thought I could go to the museum next to it for a bit more info of the area, but I didn’t realize it closes on Monday.
Thomas Cullen — Google review
Beautiful and easy to reach by bus. Great for cherry blossom viewing & has a really awesome gift shop!
Celi Reeder — Google review
Really scenic place, good for an afternoon walk around the area before picking up some souvenirs and moving to your next destination. You can also go to the top of the castle with a small entry fee.
Russell Huang — Google review
Beautiful place. Base of the castle is still remaining and most of the other parts are renewed. Lot of historical items are divided floor wise and showed in a nice order. Some of the ruins, old stories and etc. photos are not allowed inside. View of city from the top floor is very beautiful.
Entrance fee is ¥520.
Chaminda Madugalle — Google review
4.2
(17116)
•
4.0
(979)
1-1 Otemachi, Aizuwakamatsu, Fukushima 965-0873, Japan
The Kamo Aquarium boasts an impressive display of colorful jellyfish in well-lit tanks, accompanied by entertaining seal shows and a touch pool featuring starfish. Despite the lackluster exhibition of other marine creatures such as fish, visitors still give it a high rating due to its unparalleled collection of jellyfish species which is the largest in the world. This small aquarium is highly recommended for families with young children who will surely marvel at these fascinating creatures.
Finally have the chance to visit this place. They have the largest collection of Jellyfish in the world and they are being shown in great fashion. However, the other exhibitions (e.g., fish) are lacking. I still give it a 5 star because people do come here for the Jellyfishes.
Gladwin Suryatin — Google review
クラゲで有名な水族館。クラゲ以外の展示もあり、念願かなってやってきました。クラゲ以外はそこそこにして、クラゲエリアを楽しみました。最後に圧巻が巨大な円形の水槽で、ゆっくり回っているように見えるクラゲ水槽で、眼の前の椅子に座っていつまでも飽きずに見てられました。暗い中でほのかな光があたりとても美しい光景でした。
(Translated by Google)
An aquarium famous for its jellyfish. There were also exhibits other than jellyfish, so my long-cherished wish came true. I enjoyed the jellyfish area, except for the jellyfish. The highlight at the end was a huge circular aquarium with jellyfish that seemed to be spinning slowly, and I could sit on the chair in front of it and watch it forever without getting tired of it. It was a very beautiful scene in the darkness with a faint light.
K N. — Google review
山形県で唯一の水族館でクラゲをメインに
展示しています😺
クラゲの種類では常時50種類以上を展示
していて世界一の展示数を誇ります。
2012年にはギネス世界記録にも認定を
されました👏
そして加茂水族館の最大の目玉は
クラゲドリームシアターですね😸
直径5mの水槽を1万匹近いクラゲが浮遊
する様子はなんとも言えません。
人によっては癒されたり、クラゲの数に
驚いたりと反応は様々です😺
クラゲ以外にも庄内地方の海水魚や淡水魚
の展示があり
私は未体験ですが、アシカ🦭やアザラシの
事を学べるプログラムもあるそうです。
最後になりますが、加茂水族館の売店で
販売しているクラゲソフトはオススメです。
淡白なクラゲの『コリコリ』とした食感が
癖になる美味しいソフトクリームですよ😋
(Translated by Google)
The only aquarium in Yamagata Prefecture that focuses on jellyfish
On display 😺
More than 50 types of jellyfish are always on display
It boasts the largest number of exhibits in the world.
Recognized by Guinness World Records in 2012
It was done👏
And the biggest highlight of Kamo Aquarium is
It's Jellyfish Dream Theater 😸
Nearly 10,000 jellyfish float in a 5m diameter aquarium
I can't tell you how it works.
Some people may feel relieved, or the number of jellyfish may increase.
There are various reactions, including surprise.
In addition to jellyfish, there are also saltwater and freshwater fish from the Shonai region.
There is an exhibition of
I have never experienced sea lions🦭 and seals.
There are also programs where you can learn things.
Last but not least, at the Kamo Aquarium shop.
The jellyfish software they sell is recommended.
The ``crunchy'' texture of the pale jellyfish
It’s a delicious soft serve ice cream that you will get addicted to 😋
マサ — Google review
This jellyfish exhibit is amazing! The jellyfish ice cream is an interesting experience as well! My partner and I watched their pacific octopus for 10 minutes exploring his tank ✨ there is a large seal (?) that does tricks and you can take a picture with 👏🏻 their are views from the top deck of the building and I highly recommend stopping by to check it out 🤗
Caitlin Ishii (Cai) — Google review
One of a kind aquarium. Lots of types of jellyfish, there is also display above how they breed Jellyfish in captivity. Very photogenic.
Krishna Kumar — Google review
小さめでクラゲメインみたいなので期待してなかったのですが、素晴らしかったです。
【良い所】
ガラスが綺麗で見やすい。
ひれあしプールからの屋上テラスが素晴らしい。周りの海も綺麗。
クラネタリウム圧巻。
出口前で100円以上寄付すると綺麗なポスターが貰える。
ひれあしの時間が大迫力で海獣を観察できる。
やっぱり実際足を運んでみるとハートに刺さることもあるので、行動大事。クラゲだけに刺さりました。
(Translated by Google)
I wasn't expecting much because it was small and seemed to be mainly jellyfish, but it was amazing.
【a nice place】
The glass is clean and easy to see.
The rooftop terrace from the fin-foot pool is wonderful. The surrounding sea is also beautiful.
The cranetarium is spectacular.
If you donate 100 yen or more in front of the exit, you will receive a beautiful poster.
You can observe marine mammals in a very impressive time during the time of fin feet.
After all, it's important to take action because it can really touch your heart when you actually visit. Only the jellyfish stung me.
kunie tanaka — Google review
ここのレストランで昼食を食べたのですが水族館にしては値段が安く、自分は醤油ラーメンを食べたのですが値段がなんと820ぐらいだったのですごく安かったです。〆にご飯を単品で頼んで余ったスープに入れて食べました。すごく美味しかったです。水槽もきれいで50%がクラゲでした。
(Translated by Google)
I had lunch at the restaurant here, and the price was low for an aquarium. I had the soy sauce ramen, and it was about 820 yen, so it was very cheap. To finish off the meal, I ordered rice separately and added it to the leftover soup. It was very delicious. The aquarium was also clean and 50% were jellyfish.
TK's Chanel — Google review
Beautiful place, recommend to visit. Plenty kinds of jelly fish (Kamo) and cutie seal are waiting for you.
Satanun Chaiwattanawasu — Google review
A rather small aquarium specializing in mostly jellyfishes. Apparently they have the most number of jellyfish species. Would recommend for young children too
Johannes Nicolaus Wibisana — Google review
A must visit place with your family when driving along the coast of Japan sea. Educational and entertaining. The creatures look well taken care off.
arthur xvii — Google review
クラゲがいっぱい!!!
というちょっと珍しい水族館です。
山形県の鶴岡市の海沿いにあります。
クラゲはとても幻想的で、
素晴らしく、見どころたくさんです。
ぜひ一度は訪れたい水族館でした!
(Translated by Google)
Lots of jellyfish! ! !
This is a rather unusual aquarium.
It is located along the coast of Tsuruoka City, Yamagata Prefecture.
Jellyfish are so fantastic,
It's wonderful and there's a lot to see.
It was an aquarium that I definitely wanted to visit at least once!
東北グルメ — Google review
夕方5時の閉館まで1時間ほど館内でお魚やクラゲの鑑賞を楽しみました。後半30分はクラゲ鑑賞でした。海水浴中に出会ったら怖いクラゲもまさに光の当て方で美しい生き物に変わるのだなと感動しました。あとクラゲの幼生も楽しめました。こちらのユニークな水族館はお勧めです。
(Translated by Google)
We enjoyed watching the fish and jellyfish inside the museum for about an hour until it closed at 5pm. The last 30 minutes was spent watching jellyfish. I was impressed by how even the scary jellyfish you encounter while swimming in the sea can turn into beautiful creatures depending on the way the light shines on them. I also enjoyed seeing jellyfish larvae. This unique aquarium is highly recommended.
Yuki Amarone — Google review
I was very surprised how many kinds of kurage (jelly fish) exists. They say this aquapark has the most kinds of kurage in the world. Very nice place. 👍
Martin Fritz — Google review
Really cool aquarium perched on the side of the coastal road, overlooking the Sea of Japan. I have never seen so many types of jellyfish, especially in one aquarium. They are amazing and beautiful creatures. There are also seals. Educational- great for children (and adults). * It can get busy - popular place - so usually buy tickets in advance.
Shank Craft — Google review
amazing experience!!
getting to see all the sea creatures and the performances of the seals and sea lions was unreal!!
the giant jellyfish display was the icing on the cake!!
Almariah — Google review
An impressive exhibit of jellyfish and other animals. It's definitely worth a visit if you're in the area and happen to enjoy the mesmerising nature of these creatures.
Steve — Google review
Nice regional aquarium. Definitely been to better in Japan. The jellyfish were pretty cool but other than that the tanks were fairly small.
Would not ring me in making a special trip but if you find yourself with extra time and you're in the area it's worth a visit for the jellyfish dream theater alone.
hugh marshall-tate — Google review
It was a wonderful aquarium. Also it had a fun seal and sea lion show. The exhibits of jellyfish we're amazing! I never knew there were so many species of jellyfish. The shows and most information are in Japanese but it was still incredible. FYI my friend and I were coming from the airport nearby and the taxi ride to and from cost ¥4000 each time. There is a bus if you have more time but we needed to catch a flight.
Shelly Moher — Google review
4.3
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4.5
(470)
Okubo-657-1 Imaizumi, Tsuruoka, Yamagata 997-1206, Japan
Rissyakuji Temple, also known as Yamadera or the Mountain Temple, is a centuries-old Buddhist temple located on a mountaintop outside of Yamagata City. The temple was founded in the 9th century and has been visited by famous haiku poet Matsuo Basho. To reach the temple, visitors must climb 1,100 steps along a mountain path that offers panoramic views. The temple is especially beautiful during autumn when the leaves change color.
First of all. If it is winter, get GOOD SNOW SHOES. The past is extremely slippery to the extent you cannot stand straight if you wear normal shoes. Stairs are non existent and you will have to crawl up holding the rails. Unless you have good shoes. Coming down is bad no matter what. Just slide your way down without losing control. The free shoes they give at the base are useless. Both in terms if heat protection & grip.
The view from the side temple before the main area is amazing. The main temple is pretty meh. The side temple has a overlook area looking into the valley. It is stunning. Is it worth the death climb? Who knows. It was fun.
Sutirtha Das — Google review
This picturesque temple has become one of my favorite locations in Japan. The journey up the mountain requires you to climbs countless stairs but the statues, carvings, shrines, and nature that surround you make the impending cardiovascular explosion worth every step. Once you reach the top you are treated to an astonishingly beautiful view of the valley. I went in November and the trees were all showing their autumn splendor.
If you are able to make the hour long train ride from Sendai, then you should seize the opportunity to make a lasting memory at this magical temple.
Jason Camorlinga — Google review
Such stunning scenery! We went early in April and it was still snowing. Got here just before 8am where there is no one but just the locals. The climb was easy to the top and you're rewarded with an amazing view of Yamadera. Highly recommend coming here for a little stop, especially with a bit of snowfall in the morning.
Lex Xiao — Google review
Beautiful. You will climb up 1085 steps up, so be prepared. I came in early, so there were not many people, but the elderly who climbed up with me taught me what to do in some temples and shrines.
There is also an admission fee to go up. Amulets and other things are also sold at the top and downstairs.
Denisse Fernandez — Google review
Love this place! It was snowing but still possible to climb up the stairs to the top. Obviously need to be careful as steps could be slippery, but totally worth it for the view.
Norris C — Google review
Hiking through the cedar forest to see the various shrines is fun and provides some great views of the area! A few spots were under construction when we visited, but you were still able to see most of the different sights. Be prepared for walking as you will need to go up many steps to reach the top!
Mary — Google review
Don't be intimitated about the 1100 steps of stairs. Take your time and you will be rewarded. People say this is one of the most beautiful place to visit and experience in Japan, yet it is so underappreciated. Perhaps it is a little hard getting to without a car, but the flip side is that it's not too crowded. Take your time, take frequent stops along the way, breath in the fresh air, enjoy and meditate on whatever spiritual journey that comes to you - it's a hugely and surprishgly rewarding experience.
People say it normally takes 1.5 hours to go up to the top and back down. I took a full 4 hours - it was right after a heavy rain so the air was so fresh and sweet. A few of the cherry trees were blooming. It was quite magical.
Oh, highly recommend taking a couple of hiking sticks with you. It really helped my old knees going up and down those steps.
Paul YYZ — Google review
The historic Rissyakuji temple complex atop of a mountain, with glorious views across the valley below. Wooden structures well trodden by the plentiful tourists, yet well maintained by the staff. Make a small donation and say a small prayer at the numerous shrines along the route.
Jason Chuei — Google review
Gather all your energy before coming here, must be well rested to enjoy the long stairway hike. Ahh 😳 summertime heat+humid will tire anyone out so easily ..
But but!!!.. baby it’s worth it 💪🏼💪🏼💪🏼🥵🥰
Hazel — Google review
Beautiful temple set atop a mountain. I’ve been now in winter and autumn and so far don’t think the scenery can disappoint. Please be respectful when you go. Too many noisy people running around screaming. This is a sacred place, be quiet and calm.
Thomas Cullen — Google review
April 16th, 2024. Challenges and worthwhile to visit. Thousands steps to climb up. 😅😅 Very tired but very happy to go up around the forest and Japanese style sculpture amongst the way.
Banyen Sae-Lee — Google review
Absolutely stunning in the winter. The hike up is barely 30 mins, but slippery so hiking boots + crampons recommended.
Viraf Patrawala — Google review
It takes ~30 minutes to hike up the stairs very slowly with breaks, so it's a definitely on the easier side of moderate hikes at least in fall with better temperatures to keep cool. I would not come here in summer. The sweeping views were great at the top, and I saw a Japanese serow on my hike up! Fall foliage was already well past peak.
Tori H — Google review
Beautiful temple on top of the hill in Yamagata.
The access is super easy. Only a couple of minutes of walking from the station to the entrance.
Only 20 minutes are required to reach the top. You will be rewarded with an amazing view of Yamagata city once you reach the top.
Entrance fee of ~200 yen is required to enter.
Hadid Windoro — Google review
Amazing shrine/temple with a quiet little town to walk around. I rode the train from Sendai to Yamadera, which took about an hour, and got there at about 1:30PM. The train ride was not crowded, and takes a really cool route through mountain forests and past some small stations.
Unfortunately, I arrived in Yamadera just as about 3 or 4 busloads of tourists unloaded, so the walk up the mountain was slow and crowded. Once at the top, it was again crowded and full of people taking selfies and glamour poses, which killed any kind of peacefulness that I was seeking. I went back down to the start and waited it out a bit; once all the other tourists departed, it was very nice and enjoyable and was able to wander around alone. The shops at the bottom are very quaint and sell souvenirs, and everyone was very friendly.
I highly recommend checking out Yamadera, but suggest going early in the morning or late afternoon to beat whatever crowds might show up. If you're staying in Sendai, it's a can't miss!
Justin Crowe — Google review
This is truly and amazing and unique experience. It’s not just one temple but a group of temples. Not to difficult to get to the top. From the train station it is an easy walk. ¥300 to enter. Very well kept and the views from the top are amazing. Set aside at least two hours to check out the whole complex.
Daniel Scott — Google review
This place is absolutely beautiful. The entrance fee (very cheap, around 500 yen if i recall correctly) and the long, hard climb is incredibly worth it. The views of the mountains are spectacular, and the best time to go is during fall leaves time. Everyone else knows this, though, so it may be a bit busy.
Unfortunately, it is completely inaccessible to those who can’t climb a lot of stairs.
Ethan M — Google review
Admission fee ¥300 for adult.
To reach the top you need to take the stairs and the view is mesmerising. Also, there are a few shops on top selling souvenirs.
Mualifah — Google review
Amazing place, I really recommend it, I was lucky to have a sunny day, but it was really cold. You have 1500 steps to go up crossing the forest, and then you will arrive in so many beautiful Temples and with an amazing view. The Shrine is unique.
Mari Palma — Google review
Located a short train travel away from Yamagata station via the train headed towards Sendai.
I visited as a little spot of sightseeing following some climbing the previous day. There are 1,000 steps to ascend so I would recommend footwear that is appropriate, as well as bring along some form of hydration as there is only one vending machine near the top.
The view from the pagoda at around the 800 step mark offers a pleasant panorama of the Yamadera area.
The entrance fee is just 300 yen, located at the foot of the mountain as a part of the main shrine.
AJT — Google review
Such a beautiful temple in the hills of Yamadera, 100% worth the journey from Sendai as even the train ride had some stunning views.
The hike up to the top was stunning and was quite easy (although someone was throwing up from exhaustion) and the view from the top was also amazing.
Definitely recommend bringing a snack to reward yourself at the top as I did since it makes it so much better.
Pracso Gamings — Google review
Nothing to not love. Easy hike up, 40 minutes slowly, with beautiful views. Autumn colors even in spring. Do it!
Richie Henry — Google review
Check for snowfall/snow accumulation before coming in winter. Without snow, it's a lot less impressive with all the dead trees, even on a sunny day. The steps are well defined and easy to walk on (about 1000+!)
Shalom Alexandra — Google review
Highlight of our driving holiday!
The hike actually only takes no more than 30-45 minutes and the scenery is definitely worth it!
Mickey Cheng — Google review
Beautiful venue to watch Autumn foliage. About 1,000 steps up to this temple on a mountain. Worth the visit if you are in Tohoku region. Don't forget to have some soba and soft cream while here.
Livvy Tan — Google review
8.3.24 many buildings are covered with plastic panels due to renovations, but still beautiful. The ice on the stairs was quite bad, we managed, but several older people fell. The couple that made it look effortless had those shoe spikes strapped on. 2 hours between train arrival and departure was the perfect amount of time for us
Michal Turcel — Google review
I've always wanted to visit Yamadera, the thousand-year-old mountain temple 350 kilometers (220 miles) from Tokyo. Basho, one of Japan's most famous haiku poets, even wrote about it. Climbing the 1,015 stone steps to the summit was worth it for the spectacular views. I don't know if I'll ever have the chance to visit again, but I'm so glad I did.
Ryo Flying — Google review
I came during winter, and braved the slippery, snowy, wet treacherous climb (then descent) to get to Yamadera. I was justly rewarded with beautiful views and the experience of having accomplished something special. It rained, then snowed, so I probably picked the worst weather, but the views are worthwhile seeing no matter the season. I couldn't access the closed trails but the rest of it was lovely.
After you finish your climb, you should definitely reward yourself with a hearty bowl of noodles at a nearby place. There's a restaurant with 4.5 stars on google maps at the foot of the mountain on the shopping street - I highly recommend it.
The JR local train is awfully infrequent - when you get to Yamagata station, go inside the shelter on the platform and learn the schedule so you can time yourself to catch your train. The trains towards Sendai are frequent enough, but going the opposite direction, only one arrives per hour.
Senshu Park is a serene and enchanting Japanese garden located near the ruins of an Edo-period castle. It is renowned for its picturesque water gardens that showcase seasonal blooms such as cherry blossoms, lotus flowers, and azaleas. The park offers a tranquil ambiance that makes it the perfect destination to spend some quality time with loved ones or just relax in peace. Visitors can embark on a leisurely stroll through the lush grounds, admiring the stunning natural beauty that surrounds them.
Beautiful park near Akita station that has a Sakura Matsuri during spring
Jovin D'sa — Google review
Loved this park and the castle ruins too!
Beautiful views of Akita City and enjoyed walking around in the snow.
Savan Gandecha — Google review
One of the historical public parks in Akita. It had been the castle, now it belongs to Akita city. Very beautiful red leaves in a Japanese style garden. There are fountain with carp fishes, lotus pond, Japanese shrines and others. Free to visit. It's very nice and relaxing for us.
Lily Chan — Google review
It's not the best place to visit in the middle of summer but since I'm only in Akita to catch the Kanto Matsuri, this seems like a good place to explore within minutes from the train station. Of course, I was made to regret my decision because the weather was scorching and as I made my way to the park, I was greeted by the insane screeching of cicadas. I was told this would be a beautiful place for cherry blossom viewing in spring (and I have no doubts about that). But maybe in summer, it's more advisable to give this park a miss. Not even the sight of the Osumiyagura turret / guard post is of any consolation... And the lotus littered moat? Let's just say it kind of looks like a total mess...
Matsuri Japan — Google review
A big, beautiful, and historic park in Akita city. You can easily walk to here from city centre. And there is a Akita Arts Theatre Mille Has around the entrance. Visitors can also have a short break at the Art Theatre. If visited this park at the right time, guess the red leaves or green leaves can show a different view of this park.
Emily Yu — Google review
Japanese parks are unique with their design and atmosphere. Lovely place to spend time so chill place 😌
Davron Rakhmonov — Google review
Beautiful park. It was a fairly big and nice for a walk.
ariane wagner — Google review
Visited on January 8th.
There was a light amount of snow and it was a fantastic atmosphere.
There were hardly any tourists so I was able to sightsee comfortably.
Akira — Google review
After a last minute change of plans, we found ourselves in Akita for a few hours longer on a drizzly Friday morning in June than expected. We were hanging around to see the Akita inu at "Akita Dog Station" that didn't open until 11AM and stumbled across this park nearby while walking around earlier that morning.
I honestly wish I had known about this park earlier. It was the quintessential Japanese park with little shrines, a mini waterfall, garden, woods, bamboo and even a small eatery and gift shop. We didn't have time to do any eating or shopping, nor did we have time to go into the small museum located in a restored building. Instead we spent it just walking around the garden areas and enjoying being outside of the city. If you're in Akita, do yourself a favor and block out a few hours to give this park and surrounding areas some of your time, you won't regret it.
Brittany Sharpe — Google review
Had a short walk during the winter period and it was quiet, nice and beautiful! Worth a visit.
Tiago DSP — Google review
One of my favourite places in Akita city... It's perfect for picnic, walking, jogging and reading too... The view from the senshu tower is so beautiful
Ps: beware of the strong wind
Hanan — Google review
Beautiful park that is very well maintained. When I went, the were doing some tree-trimming which created some unpleasant noise, but that was the only thing I could possibly say negative about it. Some buildings near the entrance like the Culture Creation Center run events occasionally, so it's good to watch out for those too.
Ethan M — Google review
I was here at the start of March, and while not the best time to visit the park, it was still a good experience. There's a lot to see!
Koiwai Farm is a sprawling dairy farm that offers a range of engaging activities and scenic horseback-riding tours. The farm's idyllic setting provides an ideal backdrop for outdoor recreation, and visitors can enjoy delicious treats such as soft-serve ice cream made from fresh milk. Japanese people particularly love this farm because it is well-managed and has ample parking space, making it easy to explore the various activity zones on offer.
Chill and relaxing farm.
Now I understand why Japanese people love to do outdoor activities. They have very nice and well manage farm. Lots of parking lot and wide farm with many zone to do variety of activity.
Ive visited in summer, August. Even shiny day the weather is nice and chill, don’t feel hot at all. Sunflower zone is so beautiful. Milk zone is great they have fresh milk ice cream and delicious western food. We walk through many zone in circle flow and at the end near exit they have grilled BBQ provided. Eat delicious BBQ with very nice weather is awesome!
I really love this place, if I travel to Iwate again I gonna visit this place.
Yk Wong — Google review
Visited late October 2022 but I think we went too early to fully enjoy the fall colours. Nonethless it was a fun visit and a few activities to do. We arrived a bit late and wasn't familiar with the activities but you could sign up for multiple activites such as butter making experience and cow visiting activity. Personally enjoyed the archery and net resting area.
Highly recommend this place to enjoy the greenery.
Riki Urabe — Google review
I visited in early March 2024. Traveling was difficult because there was no bus, so I had to take a taxi. There were no activities at the farm. There are only restaurants and souvenir shops. The children did not see the animals and did not play in the playground because it was fenced off. I'm not impressed
Lek Mickey — Google review
Always heard about this place and I finally visited! The food at the cafe is excellent! The meat tasted great and the ice cream was delicious! The atmosphere is also very nice and cozy. Kids were sledding, and they also had a snowmobile pulling a sled! You can also eat inside an igloo if you choose to do so. It was a nice stop on our way home from Morioka. I wish I saw the illumination! I am sure it is amazing too!
Vincent F — Google review
Big farm with lots of illuminations and snow during the winter. There is also good food inside. Spacious fun and interesting! It costs 1000 yen to go in as an adult.
Caleb Gelsthorpe — Google review
It is an amazing farm with lots of fun activities. The parking lot is big and free. The admission fee is reasonable. You need to pay each activity separately inside. There is no free pass. Comparing the the other similar farms it is not too big, you can walk around with your kids easily. There are restaurants (pizza, bbq, etc), shopping areas for souvenirs and fresh products like milk, yogurt, soft cream and many more. Soft cream is definitely recommended. Very tasty. Fresh milk is must try one. We couldn’t see cows since they very in a different place but we had a chance to watch a dog and sheeps show. Pony ride, craft activities, archery, mirror maze, horse car, water activities are great options. There are guided tours. Better to check the times at the entrance.
Ceco23 — Google review
We came here in the middle of winter and there is not much to do so we just walk around the place taking some photo. The BBQ place was really good with some great beef and very good price. I worth just to come here to eat BBQ.
Pun O — Google review
3/30. Paid to enter the farm. Most of the attractions, restaurants and shops were closed. Having been many times I expected more to be open on days when you PAY to enter. If it is free then having most things closed is acceptable. Staff was not helpful when I suggested they inform customers of the limited offerings.
Kathryn Akasaka — Google review
Paid to enter the farm in late March. Most of the shops and restaurants were closed. I would expect this during the off season when it’s free to get it. Having paid to enter I fully expected to be able to access all the attractions. Staff were less than helpful. Very disappointed.
GSmominJapan Akasaka — Google review
If you love cheese, green plains the smell of cow poop and the surreal baying of distant cows, then this is the place for you. The cheese pizza was simply the best I had in Japan. It was a beautiful environment that soothes the soul (unless you think about the inherent cruelty in the dairy farming system too much). Great place for photo ops and of course the history of the farm is pretty darn interesting.
R. Zehmke — Google review
Spent around 3 hours at Koiwai Farm last week. It was a good place for family or friends to relax. Some areas were perfect for reading.
JR pass holders got a small discount on the tickets.
Desmond Hui — Google review
If you want to learn about sustainable farming come here. Their cheese is also awesome you can grill it and it doesnt melt.
Latoyaa Roberts — Google review
A very nice place for a family outing. You can use the public bus from morioka station east exit bus stop no:10. On weekends and holidays there is a morning bus around 9am. All other days only at 13:00. The last bus return from the farm is at 15:30. All rides and experience costs extra apart from entry fees. There are enough rest rooms and food stalls and restaurants. Overall a good experience.
Ganesan M — Google review
First time in Japan, this farm is so huge. So many cows, sheep, and horses. They also have archery if you want. The softcream (ice cream made of milk from Koiwai Farm's cows ) is very delicious.
J CARTER — Google review
Very beautiful illumination place.
Fresh Yogurt and milk was very delicious 😋
MD MANJUR HASAN — Google review
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36-1 Maruyachi, Shizukuishi, Iwate District, Iwate 020-0507, Japan
Hirosaki Castle is a well-maintained, historic castle surrounded by over 2,600 cherry trees. The grounds are lush and green with a moat and many charming turrets. It's a popular cherry blossom viewing spot in late April.
The main tourist attraction in Hirosaki City, which not only garden but also has castle inside. The access is very easy, you can take bus from Hirosaki Station for 100¥ (please check the timetable for bus using app/ask the tourist information center inside the station). I went here during Chrysanthemum and Autumn Leaves Festival, so the entrance is free. Normally, the entrance to the park is free but if you want to visit Hirosaki Castle area or Botanical Garden, you need to pay for a ticket, but I think the price is still reasonable (520¥ for all access). This park is spacious and has some picnic areas inside. There are also some cafe you can visit if you’re hungry. This park has various events in a year, so, make sure you come when the festival is held.
Aghietyas Zahra — Google review
There are snow removal vehicles in the winter so you can visit without difficulty. Notice the snow falling from the pines and cherry trees. The snow is quite slippery, so it is recommended to wear winter shoes with anti-slip soles. i think the park will be very beautiful in cherry blossom season.
Duhucu — Google review
I just love that place!!! It has a very special place in my heart, it has a really romantic atmosphere and is definitely a great place to go, even if you have missed the cherry blossoms in Central Japan! 🌸🥰🩷
Sue Mae — Google review
2 big gates, the main keep (honmaru) and a little keep are all that is left of the castle. The keep was recently moved from the fortifications wall to the centre of the place after an earthquake threatened its stability. Great place for pictures. Limited historical artefacts.
Nicolas weng kan — Google review
Visited in Jan and as my photos show, it was snowing everywhere and they closed the castle. But I do enjoy this peaceful moment.
The castle is much smaller than what I thought.
Stephen Shao Chi-Ching — Google review
It is a very beautiful place to visit all times of the year, but it is really nice in the Spring with all the cherry blossoms in full bloom! Unfortunately, we went a little too late to see them, but still managed to get some nice photos/views of the area. There were still a lot of vendors out selling delicious food and the path is lengthy and nice. It is absolutely worth the trip!
Vinny F — Google review
Great little castle park with a nice botanical gardens. Tickets are cheap and right now there is an autumn garden show happening. Definitely a must-see attraction in Hirosaki.
Flo — Google review
Lovely park and Castle would recommend to anybody. We will lucky enough to be there during the Autumn festival so we got in for free. But prices were very reasonable would have happily paid. Beautiful autumn colors
hugh marshall-tate — Google review
The gardens were trained out this year but the castle and autumn leaves were beautiful. Can go inside the castle and view pictures of how it was moved while the base gets fixed. Big areas to enjoy
Katrina Kyllo — Google review
Really cool place full of cherry blossoms. I believe the cherry blossom festival starts around April 20th until the end of the first week in May.
Lots of food shops around, all around super fun.
Kazu Naito — Google review
The castle itself it’s pretty ordinary, quite small and nothing inside to see, however what’s so special about this place is the moat along the outskirts of the park, during cherry blossom season when the falling patels covering the river, it’s quite a spectacular scene that hard to find elsewhere.
Susan Liu — Google review
A great place to take pictures and watch the sunset. Even better in the fall 🍁 or cherry 🌸 blossom season
Daniel Vaughn — Google review
During the autumn leave festival it is best to go at night. However, I would say don’t pay for botanical gardens and just walk around the free sections. They were better imo. The castle is pretty small but at night you don’t pay for ticket so was nice.
niels hurst — Google review
Great place to visit! The castle itself might not be so amazing, but the place around looks beautiful and it got great views.
I went the on May 5th 2023 with some friends.
The cherry blossoms still had lots of flowers.
A Roza — Google review
Super mini castle and yet this is the smallest castle i ever see, cute and move able. Of course this is about the most famous place to visit during Sakura Season.
Warren Chua · 小峰 — Google review
Beautiful castle. Would visit again. Would spend more time there next time approximately 3 hours.
Philip Thong — Google review
Small but nevertheless beautiful castle overlooking the garden.
It is three stories high and on each floor there are some artifacts and a movie showing how they moved the castle to its current location.
Ilan Kader — Google review
April 18 - beautiful pink willows and white cherry trees along the cherry tree tunnel. However, many cherry trees are also falling.
Personally, one of the best cherry blossom locations because of the variety of different types of trees, a castle, a mountain view, cherry blossom tunnel, water + bridge view, and many reflection spots. In addition, the Sakura festival/matsuri is very lively with the ROWS of food and activities.
Castle entrance: come before 9am for free entry and after 5pm! Entering the castle is also free :)
They also have night illuminations all around the park for free! They're especially beautiful here because there are no gimmicks-- just plain white light 💕
Allie W — Google review
4.3
(9083)
•
4.0
(827)
1 Shimoshiroganecho, Hirosaki, Aomori 036-8356, Japan
This museum features an interesting ecological display and local photography. It has good service and the hot spring is wonderful. There are a lot of cute souvenirs to buy here.
Interesting place. Good coffee shop inside
Andy McDonald — Google review
Came here to start my Oirase gorge walk. Dropped my luggage in the coin locker (it was empty). The cafe sells apple pies, which is just okay for me because it’s very tart and the crust is very thin. Toilets are clean and modern with bidet. Ample parking. Took the JR bus from Aomori to get here and then back to Towada city. There’s some apple souvenirs sold inside as well.
Hani D. S — Google review
There's so many cute souvenirs stuff
Alin leonardo — Google review
Good stop if you're driving the Oriase gorge. Not really a museum but an adventure center for winter (snow shoe tours) and summer activities, and a store specializing in apple products and elegant (but expensive) moss terrariums. Lots of maps and hiking guides as well. There are some displays of the local flora and fauna and microscopes for the kids to examine moss up close. Did I mention the area is famous for moss? There are also apple snacks and a cafe next door.
Douglas Aberdeen — Google review
Good service and the hot spring is wonderful
Ho Joanna — Google review
Neat little museum.
Tony Wang — Google review
The weather is all important for a good time and taking photos.
paul mah — Google review
Beautiful little rest area! They sold ice cream and had a small convenience store. Beautiful place to take pictures. Best times to go are April-October!
Jamie P. (Jam.Phi) — Google review
Good stop for a coffee before your walk up the gorge. Apple pastries were yummy too, just pricy but that's expected for a place like this
Jia Tsing Ng — Google review
An interesting place to learn more about the wildlife and nature from the surrounding areas.
Samuel Ng — Google review
Just general information about the area Oirase, not worth the visit but there is a bathroom you can use here free of charge. There is also a shop selling cakes and drinks
Raymond Hung — Google review
A good place for you to learn a story in this area.
Oscar Chang — Google review
This is more of an information center than a museum, but it has some interesting ecological displays and local photography. It also seems like you can rent bikes from here to ride along the stream.
Adam Butterworth — Google review
3.9
(1398)
•
4.5
(1075)
Tochikubo-183 Okuse, Towada, Aomori 034-0301, Japan
The Nebuta Museum WA RASSE showcases the colorful Nebuta festival parade floats and taiko drum displays with a historical context. The museum is conveniently located a few minutes walk from the Japan Railways Aomori train station.
Awesome modern museum that tells you the history of these traditional parades and floats. It's not very big but lots of detail and history. They have a few live shows and demonstrations per day. Check the time table so you can catch a show. Your ticket allows for re-entry.
Free lockers available on the first floor. Tickets can be purchased on the second floor.
Kevin Kwok — Google review
It's a genuinely unique experience. The museum has recent year lanterns and provides full details about Nebuta history.
Even if you didn't catch the Nebuta festival, they show a 10-minute show every 30 minutes. The entrance fee is 620 yen (2023 Oct)
Rahal Jayawardane — Google review
Good to visit when you are in Aomori . Extensive art done with bamboo and wired frames papered in 3D . The entrance fee is 620 yen for each adult, and you can spend about 2 hrs to admire the artwork. They also activities for the guests to take part .
Choo HengHeng — Google review
Really different vibe inside the museum, really enjoyed every minute here. The Nebuta statues are so intriguing with interesting facial expressions and stories to tell. If you visit around 11:00, 13:00 or 15:00 you can witness a small performance too. The workshops are not on at the moment due to Covid.
Viraf Patrawala — Google review
Unique architecture from the outside. Impressive displays inside. The floats on display change every year so you get to see different floats depending on which year you go. There’s a section on Nebuta Festival’s history but it’s in Japanese. One can appreciate the photos though and see how the festival has grown.
Angelo (?????) — Google review
It was great to know more about Nebuta History and begin. I never knew Nebuta celebration before I stepped into this museum. The creation and lantern does give me a whole new level of experience and creations are so nice. Amazing stunning.
Alan Yeong — Google review
We ended up here half by accident while making our way to A factory and it was totally worth it. A great display of the floats of the Nebuta festival that are amazing pieces of art. I would say the top site to visit in Aomori if you cannot go to the festival itself.
Pedro — Google review
Well curated, maintained and affordable to visit! Why would you NOT stop into this place while in Aomori!? See the famous floats used in the parades of past years, get up close and personal with the inner workings and read about the creators/sculptors and past winners. Their shop isn't to be missed, you can easily spend 1-2 hours here if time allows. It's a large "open warehouse" style museum, great for kids to aw at the wonder of these hand created floats. It was a perfect stop for our all too short day in Aomori.
Brittany Sharpe — Google review
Absolutely fell in love with this form of art, I was very excited to visit this place, and words nor photos can truly capture how I felt looking at these mind blowing works of art.
I felt so drawn into these, I’d imagine it’s what a mosquito feels like as the glow of a bug zapper draws it in.
The museum is spacious in terms of available space to walk around the main floats, with high ceilings and perfect dimmed lighting, it provides these lantern sculptures a real nice space to truly shine.
It seemed like most visitors walked through it in less than an hour, but I easily spent 2 and a half hours walking around. Not just for the chance to try and capture what I was seeing in photo and video, but just simply admiring the detail and craftsmanship of the art.
The staff are kind as well, eager to capture a photo of you with the floats of you want or even share a little history about the festival, art form, etc. One lady was cool enough to not only share details about the art and the work one of the artists was doing in a studio beneath the entrance stage, but she even gifted me some of the paper used in making these. I listened carefully, gave her my undivided attention as she was clearly pouring her heart out about the love she had for this work, but I understood nothing she said from the words she spoke, but sometimes you can understand someone by just how they talk with their gestures, and it all made perfect sense, I think 😅
Two take aways, one was I want to now desperately make my own, and it seems very doable, but I won’t know where to put it. And two, I want to not only attend this festival next summer, but I want to participate in it if possible. I don’t know how, but I’ll find a way.
Love this place, love the art, love Aomori, want to move here and raise a family of Nebuta craftsman and sleep under the warm glow of these magical lanterns.
Moh — Google review
This museum is just 3-4 min walk from aaomori station. We paid around 1500yen ticket which includes other two museum including this.. This museum is super amazing which had huge collection of 3D floats which are used in aaomori traditional matsuri event..
great work of art 🥰😍😍
Bijay Thulung Rai — Google review
A great place to visit if you aren't able to see the Nebuta festival itself. This museum gives you a chance to view the floats up close and really take in all of the details. Photos don't do justice to how enormous and complex they are.
N M — Google review
A love letter to the nebuta festival. Beautiful exhibit and they put on a show a few times per day. Worth stopping by if you you're on your way through Aomori.
Houssam H — Google review
Fabulous displays of the Nebuta sculptures. There are mixed language short movies to explain the history. Great photo opportunities. Good for those of us not lucky enough to get tickets for the festival.
Gene Genie — Google review
While my shipmates were visiting this place, so why not visit this place and meet with them. It did charge an admission fee but not too expensive. Inside had some drum playing for visitor. Several amazing float or that may be some other name. Good experience. The Apple juice that they sell near the entrance was very sweet.
Kevin Lai — Google review
I think I don't need to say anything about it. It's a must go to appreciate the art and culture that's been kept for hundreds of years. Just share a couple of the pictures taken. Come and see it for yourself and you'll be amazed at the persistence of the Japanese to pass on their valued traditions from generation to generation. Valuable culture is never lost but destroyed.
Upasaka Aruna — Google review
Absolute must visit for anyone coming to Aomori. The intricate artwork took my breath away. I was teleported to those ancient mythological times while marvelling at the magnificent craftsmanship. If there is only one thing one must not fail to visit in Aomori, it is this place. Hands down!
Sourav Dey — Google review
Fun and great museum about "big illuminated paper lanterns". It's showcasing the history of the nebuta festival and their floats. There is also a movie showing about the last festival.
It has a great merchandise shop with nebuta merch, shirts and other aomori specialities.
I recommend going there when you are also visiting the A-Factory or the ASPAM. It's like 2min away from the aomori station. Apparently you can also buy a ticket set with Museum, ASPAM and the ship museum.
Waldemar Synkow — Google review
A really cool experience to get to see these up close! Not a lot of descriptions or things in English to read but just being right next to the floats and seeing the details is amazing.
Josh Rose — Google review
A must stop during your time in Aomori as it's very close the train station. A small museum but with huge impact about the cultural significance of this art form. Entry and ticketing is easy and there is usually no wait. Try to catch one of the live performances if your schedule allows.
Sean Crook — Google review
Must visit musuem with the famous nebuta floats. It's not a big museum, but you can view a few of the larger floats and they are massively impressive.
Definitely something to visit, not expensive, doesn't take long and right next to the station.
Max Jensch — Google review
This museum showcases the Nebuta festival paper floats that are paraded around Aomori prefecture every year.
When people think of Aomori, they think of Apples, and these beautiful floats. They depict stories and fables from Japanese folklore, and are extremely vibrant, colourful and intricate. It is a must see if you are in the area, and it is also very affordable.
There are also periodical demonstrations of the music and dancing that would accompany the floats in the festival.
Lorne Inglis — Google review
A no-brainer to visit if you're in Aomori. It's right next to the A-FACTORY and very close to the JR station.
Showcases the history of the festival in Aomori and has a number of full-size floats from previous festivals on display. A unique experience and definitely well worth the admission fee.
Mount Hakodate, standing at 1,096 feet tall, is a popular spot for taking in stunning city views. Accessible by cable car or hiking trail, it offers a breathtaking panorama of the city lights below. The area also holds historical significance as a cemetery for foreigners with Western religious beliefs dating back to the late 19th century.
View was great during sunset and early evening. Actually got quite busy up on the observation deck as some school tours all arrived around dusk. Make sure to bring a jacket as the deck is outdoor with not much cover from the elements.
Norris C — Google review
I came here just for fun seeking to find a nice view and serene calm everything. And this area did not disappoint. I got to see an amazing view of the mountain. I got up to the mountain but using the rope lift which is basically a ski lift. And while riding the ski you will get insane views of the ocean, buildings, random floating things and etc. If you go to hakodate you HAVE to come here, it's a must.
ivangun0213 — Google review
Breathtaking view at sunset. The sunshine pierced through the perfect opening of clouds today, giving us all an awesome view of Hokodate and its surrounding area.
I could spend an entire day up here just looking out as far as the eye can see. I love winter and the cold, so it was perfect timing for me, snow blanketed the ground and fell gentle from the sky. The cold air blowing ranges from gentle frosty breeze to bull whip to the face; reminds you you’re alive, ha ha.
But I’d imagine any season you visit would be beautiful. Don’t worry about crowds, sure there are other people there, work your way around the entire 360° of the top and you’ll find a turn to take photos or just look out at a majestic view. Enjoy it within the company of fellow humans. Go, now, don’t be shy, worth the trip.
Moh — Google review
To get a bird's-eye view of Hakodate Bay, you must take a cable car to Mount Hakodate. Especially at dusk, the city lights will make the view of the whole bay very beautiful. And in winter, if you're unlucky, you won't see anything but the fog that covers the bay.
Amnat Wangboonkerd — Google review
I believe that Mount Hakodate offers a great view of the city on good days but unfortunately, it was extremely misty during our visit there. We could hardly see the view and it was covered with thick clouds.
Mount Hokodate is another inactive volcano in Japan. The 3 minutes ropeway was enjoyable and there is a decent size souvenir shop, a restaurant, and an event hall at the peak of the mountain.
Ting Ting — Google review
The view is... incredible, from almost every angle, especially in the late afternoon and at night. The biggest down side are the crowds. Other tourists may or may not give you a chance to get to a decent spot to see or take pictures. It's very crowded...
David Schooley — Google review
A really memorable scenic view from the observation deck. Unfortunately I had to miss the sunset view due to the vast amount of tourists there but it ok. It kind of make no sense not to visit the place if you stepped into Hakodate for sure.
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I created a video tour of the Mount Hakodate via. my YouTube channel: WhenaGeekTravels. Feel free to check it out. Thanks☺️
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#函館山 #函館市 #hakodate #mounhakodate #tttvlog
Nicholas Lo — Google review
breathtaking view. keep warm at the top of the observatory or there’s a shop inside for rest as well
Grace Lee — Google review
Great landmark for photos, it's the best spot for pilgrimage trip to. Love Live Sunshine is here on Hakodate ep 8-9 🤩👍
David Hartono — Google review
From my travel diary - "We had our breakfast near the markets on the wharf and then left for Mount Hakodate. You get to it by cable car and I think that Sharon and I may well have conquered our fear of this type of travel. The view from the top of the mountain over Hakodate was just beautiful with the city nestled in between a huge range of snow crested mountains and the Japan Sea and the Pacific Ocean. It was really very beautiful"
Ross Daniels — Google review
Wonderful views of Hakodate city and the ocean, but the place is extremely crowded though. Be there before sunset so you can enjoy both day and night views.
A P — Google review
The Ropeway to Hakodate is about 8 to 10 mins drive from Hakodate Train Station & it costs about JPY1000… Therefore I suggest just pay for the ride & go to the ropeway if you have a tight schedule.
The view up there is spectacular but you probably won’t spend more than 10 mins due to the crowd and wind.
阿宝 — Google review
Great views but you’ll be fighting over photo spots with bus loads of organized tour groups. I’d really like to recommend this place but it’s too touristy and at least when I went the other tourists weren’t very friendly and didn’t allow to take turns often staying put after taking photos and only letting others from the same tour group occupy the spot. I believe more can be done to make this a better experience
Ricardo Seah — Google review
Great view over the city and the best thing to do in Hakodate. Also quite cheap to get here. Fully recommend it.
Willem F. — Google review
A quick ride on the Mt Hakodate Ropeway and we got to enjoy the beautiful view of Hakodate.
LG Tan — Google review
4.6
(2443)
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4.5
(3683)
Hakodateyama, Hakodate, Hokkaido 040-0000, Japan
I'll never travel to Sapporo without this trip planner again
I used it a lot when I went to Hakodate. It is convenient because you can go to tourist spots such as Goryokaku and Mt. Hakodate.
Michael — Google review
Hakodate eki mae trem station. So minimum protection from wind, rain and others. But it's still fine to wait for a couple minutes.👍👍
Ferry Tjahjadi — Google review
Rudimentary stop. The tram has a great potential, it it rests unused. Very old school operational model, ticketing, tracks, stops. It cannot attract passengers used to either the high-quality trains or private cars.
Daniel Brvni??an — Google review
History and convenient
Kevin Kaku — Google review
Most convenient to the train station. Has some protection from the weather.
Villagemayor — Google review
Close to everything, markets, restaurants, minimarts, train stations, sea
Chuang Vesvarut — Google review
(Translated by Google) How can you come to Hakodate and not experience riding a streetcar?
(Original)
來函館怎能不體驗搭乘路面電車呢
Grace Cheng — Google review
(Translated by Google) There are many new barrier-free trains in Kyushu...
This place is full of tanks that remind me of the Showa era...
(Original)
큐슈쪽은 베리어프리 되는 신형 전차들도 많은데...
여기는 쇼와시대가 생각나는 전차들 투성이네요...
minhyuk i — Google review
(Translated by Google) It's very convenient because you can use transportation IC cards that can be used nationwide!
Transfers will be automatically calculated.
(Original)
全国相互利用できる交通系ICカードが使えるのでとても便利!
乗り継ぎも自動計算してくれる。
kkkaz — Google review
(Translated by Google) I stayed at the Comfort Hotel.
It’s right in front of the hotel and right in front of Hakodate Station.
Directions to Goryokaku, Akarenga, and ropeway
I used it very often as it was an advantageous location from both sides.
(Original)
컴포트 호텔에 묵었는데
호텔 바로앞, 하코다테 역 바로앞이기도하고
고료가쿠, 아카렌가, 로프웨이 가는 방면
어느쪽에서도 유리한 위치라 정말 자주 이용했다
이승재 — Google review
(Translated by Google) Exit JR Hakodate Station 🚉, walk 3 minutes 🚶♂️,
You will need to transfer to the tram station!
You cannot change trains inside the station building, so
You need to be careful 👍
(Original)
JR函館駅を出て🚉、徒歩3分🚶♂️で、
市電の駅に乗換えとなります!
決して駅舎の中で乗換えはできませんので、
注意が必要です👍
望月弘 — Google review
(Translated by Google) I think the curved roof is distinctive. There is also the starting point of National Route 5 and Hakodate City's colored manhole nearby. I often use it to go to Goryokaku Park or Suehirocho Station.
(Original)
湾曲した屋根が特徴的だと思います。近くには国道5号の起点と函館市のカラーマンホールも有りますね。よく五稜郭公園前や末広町駅まで行く時に利用します。
けん坊 — Google review
4.0
(138)
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4.0
(1622)
15 Wakamatsuchō, Hakodate, Hokkaido 040-0063, Japan
Goryōkaku Tower, standing at 107 meters tall, features an observatory offering stunning views of the star-shaped fort below and the surrounding mountains. The fortress was strategically designed to accommodate more gun turrets and minimize blind spots along its walls. Visitors can take a lift to the observation deck for panoramic vistas before exploring other nearby attractions such as Mount Hakodate, Hakodate Morning Market, and Onuma Quasi-National Park.
Fun touristy site with a great 360° view of Hakodate, including Fort Goryokaku. It is a little out of the way to get to, but it is worth a visit.
It also has many eats in the lobby area!
Jimmy Hu — Google review
Amazing view at the top. Pay 950 to visit the top level is a must. U can have 360 view of the Hakodate area with the mountains as the backdrop.
Car park is opposite the tower. So park and walk across the street to the tower entrance.
The lift to go up is fast.
The view is really great. Highly recommend.
ThianYong Chan — Google review
Adult ticket prices are at 1,000 yen each. View at the top of the tower is picturesque and worth the money! There’s a mini cafe and store at the top of the tower. Souvenir shop is at the entrance.
James Khoo — Google review
Beautiful tower with great elevator service. There is an elevator attendant that gave a talk as you ride the elevator up to the top. The top features a 360 view of the surrounding city and goryokaku fort. It also has cute comics explaining the history of the fort.
You can buy tickets at the first floor and there is also a large gift shop on the first floor with lots of souvenirs and some food as well.
Ava Wu — Google review
五稜郭ですが、タワーとしては見ごたえは、五稜郭を見るなら高さ的にもここに登るのが最適です!ただ、タワー上層記念メダル販売機の補充が従業員が少ないからなのか、週末にもかかわらず売り切れが多く人気と貼り紙して有るのになぁ〜と、少し思う所は有りました、同じ階で食べたソフトクリームはそこそこ美味しくラムネ味を何人かでシェアーし、タワー中層のジェラート屋さんで、桜とミルク系のフレーバーをシェアーし、こちらはめちゃめちゃ美味しかったです!(お勧めです)1階のお土産屋コーナーで買い物したのですが、近隣の駐車場の値引は出来ませんでした。
(Translated by Google)
Although it is Goryokaku, it is impressive as a tower, and if you want to see Goryokaku, this is the best place to climb in terms of height! However, I did wonder if it was because there were not enough employees to replenish the commemorative medal vending machines on the upper floors of the tower, as they were often sold out even on weekends, even though there was a sign saying that they were popular, on the same floor. The soft serve ice cream we ate was pretty good, and we shared the ramune flavor with a few of us, and at the gelato shop in the middle of the tower, we shared the cherry and milk flavors, which were really delicious! (Recommended) I went shopping at the souvenir shop corner on the 1st floor, but I couldn't get discounts for nearby parking lots.
0093 ASK — Google review
Great place to see the famous star shaped Goryokaku Fort! I was impressed by how much history they have shared in the museum - all of it provides in multiple languages. The view was impressive and it was nice to be able to learn a bit about the historical significance as well!
Erin Power — Google review
Beautiful view from the tower, you can see the whole city panorama. There are souvenir stores, coffee and food places too. I went during winter, but really want to come back during spring.
Monika Bednarczyk — Google review
Amazing view. Amazing food. Amazing location. One of the best sites I have been, during Sakura full blossom - Although a long line, it went really quickly.
Ate a squid that was much fresher than what you get on the main island. Also the Sakura icecream on top of the tower was amazing!
Arie Platkov — Google review
Beautiful place to visit. Ticket is 1000 yen per adult.
They accept credit card.
John Z — Google review
1000 Yen / adult was worth it.
At first I put my bag in the locker - which was too expensive (400 Yen) compared to other facilities.
The view is quite nice especially the seeing the park from above. There is also a small history about the park available in several languages, also in German.
If I had the choice between 2 observatory platforms, I would definitely choose Mt. Hakodate at night.
Leo Adolf — Google review
Goryōkaku in Hakodate is an impressive star-shaped fort offering a glimpse into Japan's history. The Goryōkaku Tower provides a panoramic view, allowing visitors to appreciate the fort's design and surrounding landscapes. It's a must-visit for history enthusiasts and anyone seeking stunning views of Hakodate.
Jun — Google review
展望施設は90mの高さから見る四季折々の五稜郭が堪能できる。タワーは1回フロア、2階は飲食店3階~4階にあたる展望施設は有料大人1000円にて行くことが出来る。
高い安いは人それぞれですから。
駐車場は近郊に有料施設何カ所かが有りますので特に問題は無いかと。
(Translated by Google)
The observation facility allows you to enjoy the seasonal views of Goryokaku from a height of 90 meters. Adults can access the observation facility on the 3rd and 4th floors of the tower once, on the 2nd floor, and on the 3rd to 4th floors.
What is high or low is different for each person.
There are several paid parking facilities nearby, so I don't think there will be any problems with parking.
ちょもらんま2号 — Google review
Such a pretty place. The family loved it. Their is a nice place up top to get an ice cream. We will come back again.
Christopher Walters — Google review
Goryokaku Tower is not a very high tower at 107 meters but the observation deck offers a spectacular view of Goryokaku park and its beautiful star-shaped fort completed in the year 1866.
Apart from the view, visitors will also find exhibits on Goryokaku stories from the observation deck. It was a pleasant experience overall and is recommended for anyone who is interested to learn more about the fortress.
There is also a souvenir shop at the entrance of the tower which sells locally produced food products such as seaweeds and other cooking ingredients.
Ting Ting — Google review
The park where various flowers planted. When arrived there, only few trees with sakura flowers still blooming, but no time to get there. We got lucky to find one sakura tree near the parking lot when going back to the bus. The souvenir shop also sell various items from cakes, snacks, tshirts, etc. View from the tower is also nice. You can see the park in 360 degree from above.
Widi B — Google review
Absolutely breathtaking sight during cherry blossom season! Super easy to get to and an amazing place for a picnic or just to go lay down in the grass and enjoy the amazing sights
Tom Corvi — Google review
Well worth a visit. Great views overlooking Goryokaku fort. Interesting historical site of significance. Bilingual signage telling the history of the battle of Hakodate.
Johnniewon — Google review
The tower offers a 360 degree view of Goeykaku star shaped park.
There are 2 elevators going all the way to the top floor.
Tickets can be bought inside of the building, usually the queue is not long.
There is a restaurant, coffeeshop and souvenir store on the first and second store
Ilan Kader — Google review
Easy access from Hakodate Station through trams. There are also busses avail and near the tower itself. There are lot of history here and k did not had time to read all the sighs, i want to come back when i have time.
Sake Navigator — Google review
Goryokaku Fort, historic site, park blessed with nature. You can enjoy walking around through beautiful scenery in four seasons: Cherry blossoms in spring, green trees in summer, autumn leaves in fall and snow in winter. The observation floors of adjacent Goryokaku Tower command a sweeping view of the huge star-shaped fort.
Pon Peng Leong — Google review
We came here on a Sunday and the place was not too crowded. The entry fee was around 7 USD, pretty cheap compare to the ones at Tokyo City. Overall the scenery was very nice, we can saw whole city, the large and beautifully lanscaped garden, and we even saw the mountains. Worth every penny!
Sharron Sharron — Google review
五稜郭の南側に立っています。
タワーに登ると
五稜郭の魅力である外形がここから一望できます。
五稜郭の城郭として特異なのがよくわかります。
勿論函館全体も美しいです。
ここから見る箱館山方面も面白いですね。
タワー自体も五角形の形でユニークです。
タワーの中にも五稜郭の模型があったり、
当時の五稜郭作成時の状況模型もあったりします。
(Translated by Google)
It stands on the south side of Goryokaku.
when you climb the tower
From here you can see the attractive outline of Goryokaku.
You can clearly see that it is unique as a Goryokaku castle.
Of course, Hakodate as a whole is beautiful.
The view of Hakodateyama from here is also interesting.
The tower itself is also unique in its pentagonal shape.
There is also a model of Goryokaku inside the tower,
There is also a model of the situation when Goryokaku was created at that time.
武蔵弾正 — Google review
函館に観光に来た際、函館市や周囲の景色を眺めることができる良いスポットがいくつかありますが、そのひとつとして外せないところだと思います。五稜郭の形を見ることができるのはもちろん、函館山の方向には市街地が広がり、その他の方角には海や山。旅行のプランを立体的にイメージできることを考えると、函館に行ったら、まず、五稜郭へ、となるのではないかと思い、旅の最初に訪問しました。
(Translated by Google)
When you come to Hakodate for sightseeing, there are several good spots where you can see the scenery of Hakodate city and its surroundings, but I think this is one of them that you can't miss. Not only can you see the shape of Goryokaku, but you can also see the city area spreading out in the direction of Mt. Hakodate, and the sea and mountains in other directions. Considering that you can visualize your travel plans in 3D, I thought that when you go to Hakodate, the first thing you should do is go to Goryokaku, so I visited it at the beginning of my trip.
Tad Edamura — Google review
五稜郭(ごりょうかく)は、江戸時代末期に江戸幕府が蝦夷地の箱館(現在の北海道函館市)郊外に築造した稜堡式の城郭です。
五稜郭タワーには、新選組副長・土方歳三のブロンズ像(立像・座像・胸像)があります。
制作はすべて、函館出身の彫刻家・小寺眞知子さんの作品です。
タワーからの眺めは星形がよく見えます。
行った時は雪が積もっていたので、余計に綺麗でした。
その時代を生きた人々の真摯な思い、私たち日本人は忘れては行けないなあと思いました。
(Translated by Google)
Goryokaku is a fortress-style castle built by the Edo shogunate in the suburbs of Hakodate in Ezo (present-day Hakodate City, Hokkaido) at the end of the Edo period.
Goryokaku Tower has bronze statues (standing, seated, and bust) of Toshizo Hijikata, vice-commander of the Shinsengumi.
All of the pieces are created by Machiko Kodera, a sculptor from Hakodate.
The view from the tower gives you a good view of the stars.
It was snowing when I went, so it was even more beautiful.
I believe that we Japanese cannot forget the sincere thoughts of those who lived through that era.
ひめみこ — Google review
函館初めてで、外せない!と思い五稜郭タワーに行きました。週末で人混み心配でしたが、季節?のせいか、閑散に近い状態でした。タワー前にラッキーピエロと塩ラーメンのあじさいがあるので、そこは、いいかなと感じました。
五稜郭タワー自体は、大人向けです!
子供連れの方だと子供がすぐ飽きちゃうんじゃないかなぁと感じました。
上階の景色と五稜郭を一望できるところは、いいなと思いました。
またあまり知らなかった(忘れていた?)歴史も紐解いて解説してくれていて、少し時間かけてそこを、しっかり見れれば面白い!と思います。
日本にもあまりない景色だなとは、感じたので一度は、見てみると!いいかなと思いました。(*^^*)
(Translated by Google)
This is my first time in Hakodate and I can't miss it! So I went to Goryokaku Tower. I was worried about crowds because it was a weekend, but is it the season? Perhaps because of this, it was almost deserted. There is a lucky clown and a salt ramen hydrangea in front of the tower, so I thought that was a good place.
Goryokaku Tower itself is only for adults!
If you were traveling with children, I felt that the children would get bored easily.
I thought the view from the upper floor and the view of Goryokaku was great.
He also explains the history that I didn't know much about (or forgot?), and if you take a little time to look at it carefully, it'll be interesting! I think.
I felt like it was a scenery that doesn't really exist in Japan, so I thought I'd check it out at least once! I thought it was okay. (*^^*)
チャンネルレッドピース — Google review
五稜郭公園に隣接して建ち、展望フロアから五稜郭跡の星形を俯瞰できるタワーです。
2006年4月1日にオープンした現在のタワーは2代目です。
初代タワーは五稜郭築城100年を記念して1964年に建造されたものですが、2006年にパワーアップして現在のタワーがオープンしました。高さは107mです。
(Translated by Google)
This tower is built adjacent to Goryokaku Park and offers a bird's-eye view of the star-shaped Goryokaku ruins from the observation floor.
The current tower, which opened on April 1, 2006, is the second generation.
The first tower was built in 1964 to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the construction of Goryokaku Castle, but the current tower was upgraded in 2006 and opened. The height is 107m.
Teruya Koga — Google review
10月下旬の函館五稜郭は、秋の深まりを感じさせる、風情あふれる観光地です。この時期、五稜郭の周囲に植えられた木々は紅葉が進み、美しい景色を作り出しています。特に、五稜郭タワーから見下ろす星型の縄張りとその周囲を彩る秋の色彩は、訪れる人々を魅了します。
歴史的な背景を持つこの場所は、幕末に建設された独特の星形の要塞で、日本の歴史における重要な役割を果たしました。タワー内の展示は、五稜郭の歴史を詳しく学べる点で評価できます。ただ、展示内容はやや古臭さを感じさせる部分もあり、特に若い世代にとってはもう少し現代的なアプローチがあればより興味を引きつけるかもしれません。
また、五稜郭公園内を散策するのもおすすめです。秋の涼しい風が心地よく、公園の中で過ごす時間はとても穏やかです。しかし、観光客向けの土産物店や飲食店は限られており、もう少し多様性があれば訪問者はさらに楽しめるかもしれません。
全体として、五稜郭は歴史好きな人には特におすすめの場所であり、秋の紅葉はその美しさを一層引き立てています。現代的なアプローチや設備の更新が進めば、さらに多くの人々を引きつけることができるでしょう。
(Translated by Google)
Hakodate Goryokaku in late October is a scenic tourist destination that gives you the feeling of deepening autumn. At this time of year, the trees planted around Goryokaku are turning red, creating a beautiful scenery. In particular, the star-shaped territory seen from Goryokaku Tower and the autumn colors surrounding it fascinate visitors.
This historical site is a unique star-shaped fortress built at the end of the Edo period and played an important role in Japanese history. The exhibits inside the tower are highly praised for allowing you to learn about the history of Goryokaku in detail. However, some of the exhibits feel a little old-fashioned, and perhaps a more modern approach would have been more interesting, especially for younger generations.
We also recommend taking a walk around Goryokaku Park. The cool autumn breeze is pleasant, and the time spent in the park is very peaceful. However, there are limited souvenir shops and eateries for tourists, and visitors might enjoy more if there was a little more variety.
Overall, Goryokaku is a highly recommended place for history buffs, and the fall foliage only enhances its beauty. With modern approaches and updated facilities, we will be able to attract even more people.
Jin MISHUKU — Google review
4.3
(12403)
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4.0
(2188)
43-9 Goryokakucho, Hakodate, Hokkaido 040-0001, Japan
Onuma Quasi-National Park, located just 20 kilometers north of Hakodate, is a picturesque forested park known for its island-dotted lakes and the majestic dormant volcano, Mount Komagatake. The park offers hiking and cycling trails, campsites, and boating opportunities on several lakes. It's easily accessible from Hakodate or Sapporo via limited express trains that stop at Onuma Koen Station.
Beautiful scenery with peaceful vibes around this place. They have several trails you can follow and for a beginner like me, it was a great experience. I came here on Autumn and honestly I was not disappointed! Very worth it to came here.
Sharron Sharron — Google review
Beautiful park! I visited in December - I really enjoyed my walk in the snow and would still recommend it - but I think it might be more enjoyable in other seasons! I recommend checking visibility prior to visiting - I didn't get to see the volcano, but walking around the small islands and over the picturesque bridges in the snow was a really beautiful experience! I also would note that in this off season, the majority of restaurants were closed - making the trip a bit less convenient. I still highly recommend going! One of the highlights of my trip to Hakodate!
Erin Power — Google review
Even on a rainy, cloudy day, the mountain was still so majestic and beautiful. I had to wait a few minutes to get a good view through the clouds. But it was worth it. The air smells so clean and fresh. The bridges are beautiful.
Karine Wilson — Google review
A lovely national park with beautiful landscape, lakes, islands and spectacular view of active volcano mount Komagatake!
In Onuma Quasi-National Park, visitors can enjoy various activities such as relaxing boating around the serene lake, cycling, canoeing, and more. Highly recommended to visit this lovely place!
Ting Ting — Google review
Absolutely wonderful and peaceful nature without the crowds. I can not say that it is more than half a days trip, but the nature is certainly worth the travel. It is free admission with plenty of touristy stuff nearby. Additionally, plus is that it is dog friendly, but note, some of the trails might not be improved enough for smaller breeds. The biggest advantage, though, for me over other tourist sites in Japan was that the crowds were not there like most other places.
Joe Riggert — Google review
It reminds me of the 100 Acre Woods from Whinnie the Pooh. So many beautiful different bridges!
Mariah Gardner — Google review
One of the best memorable place.lake virw is awesome.one whole day is needed to walk around the lake & boating
Speed boat option available
You can rent bicycles to roam.
Renga raj — Google review
Highly recommend taking the walk 1 to 7 over the many bridges between the islands and ponds full of lillies. Very different from the normal views you get in Japan
Ivon Robson — Google review
Nice place.. small little trails to walk around... you can rent bicycles.. tricycles and even paddle a boat.. came with my elderly parents.. they enjoyed it.. Wil definitely l come back again if I am back in Hakodate.
Kimberly Yer — Google review
We came here during Japan’s public holidays, it was crowded but we really enjoyed the atmosphere, seeing kids playing around with snow and surrounded by laughing was so fun! 🇯🇵
PingYew Tan — Google review
Awesome place, beautiful and peaceful park close to Hakodate, Hokkaido.
It has a huge, two story restaurant with all kinds of seafood dishes and other regional specialties. We had a feast of a meal after our walk!!!
E C — Google review
Visited on a Friday late morning late Sep.
Plenty of free parking onsite.
Took the shorter route as we were on a schedule. Nice easy walk in abt 20min.
Good place to stop and stretch those legs a little.
Melon soft serve afterwards is a treat!
V Chua — Google review
Very beautiful public park that includes many cool bridges and provides great views of Komagatake and Lake Onuma. There are three main walking routes which are all great and well maintained! There are also several places to eat and a places for boat rentals.
Cai Davis (Max) — Google review
I went there during winter can see large plain of white snow, beautiful scene.
Ong Gim Seng — Google review
Beautiful scenery in Onuma lake. Also there is monument of thousand winds. But the wheather is quite windy, and little hot. Also there is restaurant with seafood menu there, they also sell soft ice cream, try their melon soft ice cream. Nice flavour.
The Usuzan Ropeway is a recreational tramway that affords its riders stunning views of Lake Tōya and Mount Usu's volcanic crater. A visit to this attraction is essential if you are in the Lake Toya area. The cable car takes about six minutes to reach the top, where visitors are treated to a breathtaking panoramic view of the surrounding mountains and lake. Adjacent to the observatory deck, there is a hiking trail that passes by a large crater.
An absolute must if you’re in the Lake Toya area. The ropeway takes about six minutes. At the top you’re greeted with a gorgeous panoramic view of the surrounding lake and mountains. There’s a hiking trail off to the side of the observatory deck that passes by a large crater. The cable car rotates every 15 minutes, so you have plenty of flexibility on how much time you want to spend in the area. Highly recommend.
Marklin Nixon — Google review
以前より、とても綺麗になった。頂上についたら展望テラスになっててスムージーとか軽食がある。そこから遊歩道を歩き、登山道に続く先のほうからの景色は格別です。風が強く、気温が低いので上着が要ります。久しぶりに自然を楽しみながらの散歩は気持ち良い♪
(Translated by Google)
It has become much more beautiful than before. When you reach the top, there is an observation terrace where you can enjoy smoothies and light meals. From there, walk along the promenade and follow the mountain trail, and the view from the end is exceptional. The wind is strong and the temperature is low, so you'll need a jacket. It feels good to take a walk while enjoying nature after a long time ♪
ねこ小雪 — Google review
This is my second visit to the mountain because on my first visit, I could only stay there for about five minutes before I had to go back to the tour bus.
On my second visit, I could be more relaxed and take my time to explore the area. As I was up in the mountain, I took the time to breathe in fresh air and enjoy the peace and quiet.
There is a long flight of stairs to go up to the observatory and get back. So, if you do not have the physical stamina, please stay near the cable car station.
Atsuta Toda — Google review
A must-visit around Toya lake area. The ropeway to the top of Usa mountain is for panoramic view of lake, ocean, and other mountains. The ropeway fee is 1,800 yen round trip, the cable leaves every 15 minutes. We went there in winter so it was really cold and windy on the top. Very nice scenery!
Pavinee — Google review
The ropeway is worth a visit to see Mount Usu. There are 2 observation decks, and a 1.1km track for those who wish to walk around the foot of Mount Yotei but the foot path is closed in winter. It is good for a 40 min to 1 hour visit, including taking the rope way up.
Se Yean Leong — Google review
A great place to visit if you are touring the area. Seems like having 2 hours available is good to do the whole walking trail at the top.
Nicholas Valentine — Google review
Great View and a short easy hike
Nathanael Tan — Google review
リニューアルされてとても綺麗になってました。
スロープあるから車イス&ベビーカーも行けて助かる!
広めのテラスにはガーデン家具が並んでて、併設されているカフェで飲み物買って景色を見ながらくつろげて最高。ホットココア450円…山価格。けど量多めだからいいかな。ホットサンドとか軽食もあり。
火口も歩いて見に行けるけど、階段、上り坂結構しんどかった〜
新しいゴンドラは窓が大きくて景色たくさん楽しめる!紅葉時期オススメ!
お土産も充実〜。
(Translated by Google)
It has been renovated and is very beautiful.
There is a slope so wheelchairs and strollers can access it!
Garden furniture is lined up on the spacious terrace, and it's great to buy a drink at the attached cafe and relax while looking at the view. Hot cocoa 450 yen...Mountain price. But I guess it's okay because it's a large amount. Hot sandwiches and light snacks are also available.
You can walk to see the crater, but the stairs and uphill were quite tiring.
The new gondola has large windows so you can enjoy a lot of scenery! Recommended during the autumn leaves season!
Lots of souvenirs too.
夜型わがままボディ — Google review
I visited this beautiful place yesterday and I must say that it was truly magnificent, I’ve seen many places in Japan that have breath taking views and this place is up there with the best of them, in all fairness the views and scenery in Japan are all truly unique. When you first arrive you see this beautiful green area at the bottom of one of the mounts, there’s a big car park which will cost 500yen, you then make your way up to the cable car booking office and purchase your tickets at 750yen each then it’s climb aboard for the trip to the top. The further you climb the better the views, once at the top there’s a very big viewing platform and an area where you can maybe enjoy an ice cream whilst taking in the panoramic views. You then follow a trail that leads to another viewing area, be warned the steps up to the area are a tad bit gruelling-it took the wind out of my sails but when atop there are 270-degree views of the towns below, breath taking vistas on a beautiful clear day are second to none. I really hope that you take the opportunity to visit Mt Usu Ropeway Observatory I promise you that you’ll not be disappointed.
Shinboner — Google review
Beautiful views with the option to hike around the outer rim. You get lovely views coming out of the cable car, sit at the cafe to soak in said views. The cafe takes only cash.
It gets really sunny, bring hats for sun protection. After the cable car station, there is are steps to hike up to the volcano’s rim. And then another hike to go around the outer rim. The pathway isn’t stroller friendly although we did see a couple carry up their baby stroller (10/10 effort).
Payment for rope way tickets available via cash and credit card.
E Chong — Google review
Mt.Usu Ropeway
Recreational tramway providing rides to elevated views of Lake Tōya & Mount Usu's volcanic crater. Breathtaking mountain/ lake toys / volcano view.
A 40-minute/70-minute drive (with toll/without toll) from Noboribetsu is a famous caldera, Lake Toya. The best view of the caldera is from the top of Mount Usu via the Usuzan Ropeway (¥1600) which leaves every 15 minutes. ¥500 for Parking. Though, it’s really only worth the trip if the weather is sunny. If it’s cloudy, give it a miss.
Lee CK — Google review
You either walk/hike up or by ropeway(cable car) 1800¥.2ways.
On mountain peak, there's a trail walk to see volcano crater or near ropeway station can see birdseye view of lake Toya.
Ng Wayne — Google review
For 1800 yen (2 way), you can take the cable car up to Mt Usu. The staff are friendly and able to speak in English abit. Do note of their last timings for cable car rides down the mountain (5.45pm on summer, 4.30pm on winter), otherwise you will get stuck!
Liau Yuan Wei — Google review
Pretty cool way to climb up the mountain time and energy-efficiently, obviously, but not the most reasonable cost-wise just as how other cablecars aren’t. Still quite worth it and you’ll get to see thins you wouldn’t have otherwise.
Kyuwon Lee — Google review
4.2
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4.0
(324)
184-5 Showashinzan, Sobetsu, Usu District, Hokkaido 052-0102, Japan
Jigokudani, also known as Hell Valley, is a striking crater featuring sulfurous hot springs, volcanic steam columns and scenic hiking paths. This famous local attraction in NoboribetsuOnsen serves two popular dishes named after it: jigoku ramen (hell ramen) and Enma yakisoba. The former comprises spicy red soup that resembles something the devil would offer while the latter is named after Enma, the god who judges souls in the underworld.
A must-visit place in Hokkaido. There is a parking lot nearby for 500 yen. The scenery is just stunning! The valley with hot water runs in creating steam and sulfur smell.
Pavinee — Google review
I don’t know how famous or popular this place is. But it is still well maintained and I have seen a lot of kids here to learn and to experience the natural resources that Japan has.
Mostly here has local visitors. Most of the texts here are in Japanese without English. It seems a local attraction. We still can see the educational meaning of the natural resources without understanding the language. And that is how good Japan is.
I don’t see people cooking with the hot water here though.
Richard Wu — Google review
Interesting view of sulphur (it legit smells like rotten eggs) and its gas coming out from the ground. Beside the valley, there’s a few hikes you can choose to take! I took one path to a stream that has fine grey sand for us to soak our feet in (hot water) and it felt so good!
Liau Yuan Wei — Google review
I visited here because of a day tour package. You can smell the sulfur odor here. The place is clean, and there are some convenience shops nearby the area.
The entrance is free here.
Coby Khor — Google review
It was walking distance from our hotel.
It has a strong sulphuric smell. Thanks to the fall season, it had a beautiful backdrop.
It was crowded with bus loads of tourists, but I was still able to walk around and take amazing pictures.
Try to avoid peak periods.
It's worth a visit if you are around the area as it is free to visit.
Sara MJ — Google review
Such nice place and worth visiting. Indescribable volcanic eruption scenes around this place recalled me a trip of Bromo in Indonesia. You may need a mask if you could not stand Sulfur smell, or even you could; mask is also required when you go outside now ;)
Subhakrit C. — Google review
Hell Valley" is a spectacular, appropriately named valley just above the town of Noboribetsu Onsen, which displays hot steam vents, sulfurous streams and other volcanic activity. It is a main source of Noboribetsu's hot spring waters.From the valley, there are attractive walking trails through the wooded hills above Noboribetsu. If you follow them for about 20 to 30 minutes, you will get to Oyunuma, a sulfurous pond with a surface temperature of 50 degrees Celsius and a smaller, even hotter, mud pond nearby. Stunning scenery!!
Simone Artuso — Google review
Easy access from the car park (¥500 parking fees). Interesting landscape with easy walking paths and boardwalk along and into some parts of the volcanic area.
Mihwa Lee — Google review
Strong smell of sulfur which some people might feel sick from it (personally i was fine)
If u want to experience onsen or bathhouse you should probably make sure to come during its season.
Very mesmerizing place something you can not see often. Fascinating to know about the boiling water underneath and how its producing steam due to it.
fatiha AS — Google review
This spot didn’t disappoint me. Not so crowded, maybe because of the day I visited was weekday. It has a sulfur smell which some people may not like. Another point is that if you want to park your car here, you need to buy a ticket by 500 yen. Better not to lose the ticket, because you can use the ticket one more time in another parking spot.
Samimuzzaman — Google review
A little touristy but otherwise really amazing to see! The smell is what you would expect from a volcanic place, lots of sulphur.
There were a lot of great places nearby to take photos and have amazing food.
A lot of the walking paths are shut in winter.
Katie Bun — Google review
What a exotic place in hokkaido.
If anyone visit here, they can feel the power of our land, earth.
Hot spring always boiling on the ground(Not danger actually lol).
??? — Google review
This was my first experience at one of these sites, the sulphur smell is the first thing to hit you as you get out of the car. We visited here when it was raining but the scenery was still really good and it was likely less crowded. You can see the mountain at low level viewpoints pretty much straight away as you enter the park. There are some walking trails around the park which we would recommend trying as you get to some higher viewpoints and the walks don’t take too long (each section was maybe 10-20mins), you also walk through some wooded and more scenic areas. If you are not interested in walking, you can drive to two other car parks using the same parking ticket (500yen). However, the one place you will need to walk to is the footbath (10-15min walk from the car park next to the lake), this is a popular spot where you can dip your feet into the hot water and there is also a good photo opportunity next to a small waterfall.
Rohatash Chaudhary — Google review
We walked on the boardwalk, and it was magical to see the volcanic area. We hired a walking tour guide with adex base for 1 hour, and he gave us a very good narration. It cost us yen 2000. We think it was worth the money since we got a good narrated value of the place.👍 Definitely recommended to do the walk and hike if you have time.
Susan Lam — Google review
I thought there would be Hot Springs that you can go into, but that is not the case. It is a series of hiking trails that are a lot of fun and easy to use. You can go to different lookouts and see the sulfer pools from different places. A place of beauty. The spas and restaurants in the area are great. I spent two days here and it’s really great.
David Mayberg — Google review
Other than the hordes of tourists, the visit to this place was well worth it. It lived up to its name indeed, as you see plumes of steam arising from the ground around you. It smells of sulphur of course, but the sight is unique.
Steven Lee — Google review
Very interesting place, fuming coming out of the rocks, the colors, the odor. Would recommend doing onsen in some of the hotels. You can do this as a one day trip or spend a night as part of a larger Hokkaido trip. It’s not worth it to travel to Hokkaido just for this.
peterlow01 — Google review
Easy parking with car ( 600 yen ). 5 minutes walk and the access is free. We were lucky to have such sunny moment of time. Nice place to have a walk. I can imagine in the summer this is an awesome place to picknick.
Gee-Kin Lam — Google review
Assuming that you stay near by, wake up slightly earlier than the normal tourist and head over to this area for a quick walk around the Hell's valley where you wouldn't be bogged down by the waves of tourist and enjoy some peace and quiet.
1. We headed over at around 7am to the park, spent sometime around the main area which was pretty relaxing
2. Subsequently we drove up to another valley just about 7 minutes in which is also walkable (but will take you around 25-30 minutes)
Generally quite a nice place given our hotel was just beside it, very convenient.
If you're lucky you would be able to catch wild deer's grazing.
Jon Song — Google review
A popular tourist attraction in the form of a crater with boiling sulfuric hot springs, volcanic steams and hiking paths.
Enjoy a hike around the Hell Valley, and then go to any nearby hot spring to relax your muscles; my friends and I had a wonderful experience doing so 💯
Nicholas Tan — Google review
Dear San Franciscan,
Friday 12.8.23 @10 am
The sky is a tad cloudy, no rain nor wind. The weather was just perfect.
The night before the snow fall, not a lot but made it looks pretty.
We explore the area up to the steam vents.
The sulphuric smell gets stronger as you walk closer to the source.
It was about 5 mins walk from our hotel. The sunrise is about 7.30 am and. Sunset about 4 pm.
lalamiumiu ieie — Google review
Came here on a gloomy weather and when it was snowing. Not the best time to capture nice scenes.
Walking path was done well. Some areas are off limits during winter due to heavy snow. Managed to walk about 500m of trail only.
Quite impressed by this geological wonder of a hot spring.
KF Yoon — Google review
Unless u happened to be nearby, then this is a nice place to visit due to the scenic views else the travel and time taken just to see this is not worth it. Me thinks.
When I was here in early December, the views were magnificent as the place is partly covered with snow and gives me a sense of calmness and peaceful feeling. The weather was also nice to stroll along the guided path especially with light snowflakes falling on me.
Those who dun like the strong smell of sulphur, then have to skip this cos the smell is very very strong and, worse, if the wind directions is to wards you.
Jimmy Ang — Google review
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無番地 Noboribetsuonsencho, Noboribetsu, Hokkaido 059-0551, Japan
Niseko Mt. Resort Grand Hirafu Ski resort is a top-notch, all-inclusive ski destination that offers a range of activities and amenities for visitors. The resort boasts numerous shops, eateries, snow parks, and hiking trails for summer adventurers. On a perfect day, the snow conditions are excellent with no long lines to wait in. Renting equipment is an easy process thanks to the friendly staff who are always ready to lend a helping hand.
Best powder snow in Japan. The weather was not great on the day we got here. Many lifts were closed due to strong wind. However we still enjoyed the course. My advice is plan your play a head by checking weather n current lift status on website.
Faiz — Google review
Powder and lots of of it! Worth a visit and feels like something everyone should experience if you're seeking deep lines of powder.
Things I wish I knew before: Runs are short compared to North America, restaurants are very crowded, rentals are okay, and there is a free shuttle that is available throughout the town. Lunch options on the hill are awesome and much better than most resorts in North America.
Jason — Google review
This ski resort deserves the world wide fame it gets, snow is amazing, views are amazing and the terrain is amazing. It is on the expensive side compared to other Japanese resorts but it’s the most famous so they charge what they want.
The little villages at the base are amazing but it’s way more expensive, food and drinks are double what you will pay in other places.
First day we were stuck in just HIrafu as the wind had the top of the mountain in hold.
Night riding was an incredible experience and it started snowing just as the sun went down.
Second day was 5-10cm of fresh snow and the riding was incredible. Hiked to the summit pf the resort and ride fresh lines on the return.
We can’t wait to come back to Niseko.
Mikal Fulton — Google review
Fresh powder, and amazing slopes. The food at the restaurants were pretty good too. Getting rental equipment was easy and the rental shop staff were very nice and helpful!
Richmond Manzana — Google review
Very good location and nice setup. This is a great place for those who love skiing and snowboarding. They have areas with all kind of skill levels. Niseko area is known for one of the best ski resorts and this one won’t disappointed you. Parking can be difficult at times but you they have staff that help directing the traffic.
Dr. Piya Chayanuwat — Google review
Amazing powder! Hirafu is the largest of the 4 mountains it seemed and the most to explore. Some trees. Still smaller than US mountains in UT, CO. It is fairly easy to navigate despite minimal signage. Often snowing (visibility can be tough momentarily if it's windy). Hirafu is connected to one other mountain in the set of 4, the other 2 are a 15 min drive. Above the tree line is accessed by a single lift with a small back at both Nisseko and Hirafu. It was easy on and off even for the kids (8, 10). Vegetarian food is limited even at Hirafu. Some food can sell out even on low volume days.
Nadine Wilches — Google review
Variety of groomed runs, tree sections all offer the best powder snow I've seen anywhere.
If the weather is kind to you, you'll wake up to a morning with the slopes coated by fresh snow, often more than 20cm and then the bright sun offers such spectacular views!
If the weather reminds you it's winter after all, the snow is still there in abundance, but it can get blustery at the mid-top mountain.
A winter wonderland!
Must visit place for all those enjoying skiing/snowboarding.
Bonny Rais — Google review
Excellent snow on a perfect day. No lines when I went, base camp restaurant has pretty good lunch food too.
Rental equipment staff were helpful and friendly.
The higher up lifts actually have windshields installed on the chairs which is surprisingly convenient too.
Rich Manzana — Google review
Powder snow and breathtaking sights make this ski resort amazing. Lots of people travel here because it has some of the best snow in the world.
A 5 hour pass / full day pass is recommended when you are able to ski well. It can also get particularly crowded on the beginner slope with people sitting around.
Royce Ho — Google review
Stunning resort with amazing skiing. A must, and the powder when it snowes is amazing Village is nice as well, with many shuttles going around (though they are very crowded). Would recommend staying on the hill or renting a car if you can because of the crowded buses.
Mackenzie Johnson — Google review
The slopes were amazing. Powder day was incredible.
Staff at the Annex rental store were lovely and so helpful (best to know some basic Japanese though, as some of the staff aren't English speakers).
Over-priced food for Japan at least at the cafe/ restaurant ($25 for a beef burger and wedges). Knowing this, buy food at the Lawson convenience store down the road from the Annex rental shop and save yourself heaps of money. Just don't go to the Lawson after a day of skiing (>6:00pm) and expect there to be food left. Massive lines and most of the food gone. Save yourself the trouble and buy it in the morning before you head up to the mountain.
Facilities are plentiful. Lots of info desks, toilets are easily accessible, lifts are very easy to catch, ski passes and rental stores are easily accessible/ easy to purchase on the day. Places are nicely heated and comfortable to rest in after a few hours of skiing/ snowboarding.
A few down sides. The place is absolutely overrun with tourists (specifically Aussies and Americans). I'm an Aussie so no prejudice here. Some of us can be a bit...much, especially when drunk, which is a frequent occurrence here. The problem is that the Japanese staff that operate the buses and convenience stores have to put up with this, day in and day out, so expect some staff to be snappy or even yell at you if you step out of line, even a smidge. I asked a bus driver in Japanese if the bus was going to a particular stop. He death stared me for about 3 seconds and suddenly started yelling at me, waving his arms around. He obviously wasn't having a good day. Not a big deal, just be prepared for it.
Some buses just don't arrive, are full of people and so you can't get on or in some cases, just don't stop in one rare case.
Overall, a great experience. Just tailor your expectations, so that you're not surprised by an ocean of tourists, lack of restaurants that don't require a reservation or angry bus drivers. Otherwise, an amazing time. (Take the gondola up to the green King run).
Luca Moschenski — Google review
Excellent runs and good tree area. Many different runs has views of Mt. Yotei which is magnificent. You can easily spend few days just explore this area. The runs are super fun for snowboarders. The only bad thing is way too many people here. Nieseko area had been getting so popular that getting to lift is long wait. When we were here 6 years ago, it was so quiet. Big portion of beginners are at the lower area, I saw someone got ski over and broke her arm. It become a bit chaotic. This is the reason I gave this area 4 stars. If you are advance skiers/ riders, spending all your times in tress area, this is less of problem. But again, you still need to deal with insane amount of the people at lift.
The Foodie Architect — Google review
Excellent snow condition, fresh powder everyday. A large variety of runs.
Good food.
The night session is super fun, it's not cold. Don't miss it!
My only complaint: stickers and magnets price are too high and only limited selections.
Leo Shi — Google review
Even when the forecast calls for limited or no snow, there’s still powder to be found.
The hikes are amazing. Be sure the pack your beacon and ride with a friend, but you can’t beat the back country access.
The town itself leaves a lot to be desired. Impossible to get in anywhere without a reservation, so you really have to script your trip.
Very touristy, so if you’re looking to experience Japan, this is not your resort
Chris Nielsen — Google review
Fabulous place for skiing and snowboarding! The gondola is amazing, great food, some shopping but mainly aimed at snowboarding and skiing. One little souvenir shop above a restaurant called Tozanken that was so popular the wait was up to 2 hours but highly recommend the wait! Had Christmas lunch there and it was delicious!
Annette Scott — Google review
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2-chome-9-1 Nisekohirafu 1 Jo, Kutchan, Abuta District, Hokkaido 044-0080, Japan
Rusutsu Ski Resort, located in Hokkaido near Niseko and Sapporo airports, offers an exciting powder skiing and snowboarding experience. The resort features Disneyland-style attractions alongside its beautiful tree runs and stunning views. While not as large as some other resorts, Rusutsu offers plenty of tree areas to explore with easy options for beginners on all chairs.
Great resort, lots of tree runs, beautiful views on a nice day. Not too large but a lot of tree areas to explore. There are also easy options on all chairs for beginners.
Nice break from skiing in Niseko. Lifts were not busy, no wait, during my visit. I prefer this resort over skiing in Niseko.
That said, there is no night skiing here. Food options close just before the last lifts close so if you plan to eat you must do it during the day. Food options and bathrooms at each of the 3 main areas.
Katrina S — Google review
Great lunch spot, good place to meet people that don't ski/board, or got injured. Free gondola ride to East mountain.
Katsu curry for ¥1700
Debbie R — Google review
Epic Pow and terrain. Great views on clear days. No ski baskets for powder skis. 3/4 days I visited, half of mountain closed because they can't figure out how to work Gondola (or don't have enough staff?). Increasing price, but not investing in resort infrastructure.
Brian Tynan — Google review
Great tree and off piste skiing particularly when it’s been snowing.
You need to get a long gondola to connect west and east sections and the line to it can be very busy.
It’d be nice to have a cafe at the top of the runs to better enjoy the views.
Despite those things I’ll come again!
Monika — Google review
Great snow and value compared to Niseko. Many tree skiing options off Mt Isola.
Stuart Dunbar — Google review
We had so much fun! Good quality powder snow, trails are mostly very wide so less crowded. Almost all the lifts have covers to keep you warm and dry in the snow.
Heavenly area in Mt isola and the tree area in West mountain are gold
Susan Liu — Google review
Wonderful experience! Everyone is so nice and welcoming 🙏
adam pirtz — Google review
This would be considered Atla regarding old lodges and basic food. Fun mid skiing. Nothing real steep. Trees would be fun if powder but not very steep to rip.
Almost 2xs the cost of Niseko and not great anything. Really fun terrain. It is a fun resort but not Niseko. They do not have the easy facilities either. Limited food selections.
Mitchell Spence — Google review
Older lifts and buildings but perfectly groomed and well designed slopes, 5 days in a row no waiting time at the lifts, as known from Hokkaido plenty of snow, most of the time the slopes were deserted ... perfect!!!
Diethard Rüger — Google review
The best day of skiing in my life! There are multiple runs for all abilities. The runs are well groomed & lots of snow around. The runs weren't crowded. Lifts were quite quick. Friendly staff around the mountain too.
Melanie Simpson (Foreverbruching) — Google review
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13 Izumikawa, Rusutsu, Abuta District, Hokkaido 048-1711, Japan
Cape Kamui is a stunning peninsula with steep cliffs and breathtaking sea views. It boasts a lighthouse and a hiking trail that offers unparalleled vistas of the Japan Sea. While the main trail leading to the tip of the Cape is well-defined, parts of it can be slippery due to moist sea wind, making it unsuitable for wearing nice shoes. Visitors can explore different trails near the car park to see the Cape from various angles. The whole experience including photo time takes about 1.
Stunning wild scenery blown by the wind to get to the last point but well worth it.
Paul A — Google review
A beautiful little hike to do while exploring the Shakotan Peninsula. Although it wasn't very crowded (at the beginning of July), from looking at the size of the parking lot and the fact that the other places we stopped off at were less crowded, I don't think I would enjoy going during peak season because the trail is quite narrow for 2-way traffic and so you regularly have to make room for oncoming people to get by.
Rory Rosszell — Google review
Stunning views and amazing sea wind blowing directly from the Japan Sea (hold on tight to your cell phone when you selfie 😅). The main trail going to the tip of the Cape is not long and very well defined but it could be muddy and certain sections with metal mash bridges could be slippery under the moist sea wind, so it may not be a good idea to wear lovely shoes (I saw ladies wearing high heels 🤔). The other trails next to the car park are also short, you can see the Cape from different angles which also worth exploring.
Exploring the whole trail, including photo taking time shall be around 1.5hrs. There is a restaurant at the car park or few good options down the driveway.
Rohatash Chaudhary — Google review
It’s really beautiful but unfortunately when we visited there was a sign stating that it is closed until November 30 for maintenance so we couldn’t walk out!
Mabel Lam — Google review
Stunning views and amazing sea wind blowing directly from the Japan Sea (hold on tight to your cell phone when you selfie 😅). The main trail going to the tip of the Cape is not long and very well defined but it could be muddy and certain sections with metal mash bridges could be slippery under the moist sea wind, so it may not be a good idea to wear lovely shoes (I saw ladies wearing high heels 🤔). The other trails next to the car park are also short, you can see the Cape from different angles which also worth exploring.
Exploring the whole trail, including photo taking time shall be around 1.5hrs. There is a restaurant at the car park or few good options down the driveway.
Mabel Sin — Google review
Sometimes windy with breeze, sometimes hot 🥵 af, requires physical strength as it is similar to hiking with lots of stairs and trails
I was sweaty so I'm not posting any pictures of me
Cosmas Chan — Google review
Amazing views of the Sea of Japan and the Shakotan coast! It's an easy albeit a bit long walk to see the cape. There are lots of beautiful views along the way (but not the plastic rubbish brought in by the tides on the shores below the cliffs). After the walk and feeling peckish you can have a meal, snack or ice cream at the shop next to the parking area. They offer quite a few seafood meal sets (local specialty seems to be the sea urchins) that are reasonably priced.
Jelly Mae Moring — Google review
Went to this cape with not a lot of info. about it but this spot exceeded my expectations. The scenery along the hike to the end of the cape is really breathtaking. Not only that, the road we took to get there has stunning ocean view and was a scenic drive.
Mai T. — Google review
A wonderful walk out to the lighthouse, if only one could do it alone!
The Nikka Whiskey Yoichi Distillery is a top-notch distillery located just outside of Otaru in Yoichi. Visitors can take a self-guided tour of the grounds and then sample different Nikka whiskeys in the tasting room. If you're interested in whiskey, this is definitely worth a visit!
They have a brand new museum that just launched a couple of months ago (aug 20121) that has a lot of interesting info about Nikka (like how they created the logo, other alcohol they’ve made: gin, vodka even).
The tour is free but you have to reserve in advance. Make sure you don’t drive if you want to have a sip as they have stickers to indicate you’re not drinking
They have a limit of how many bottles each person can buy at the shop, but they sell the limited Yoichi distillery editions!
Taisuke Yamamoto — Google review
Fantastic place to visit if you are a whisky lover. The free tour requires booking ahead of time (I did it online via their Japanese website with the help of google translate). Note if you are travelling from Sapporo via train, there are very limited trains heading to Yoichi and can restrict what tour times you can make. I booked a 9:00am tour and caught a 7:14am train from Sapporo to Yoichi arriving at 8:30am. It is a short 5 minute walk from Yoichi station to the distillery grounds.
Tour is all spoken in Japanese but the tour lady and security guard have these little laminated cards in English explaining each stage of the tour which was helpful. At the end of the tour they provide three free whisky tastings as well which is nice. Whisky for breakfast. Breakfast of champions =)
After the tour you can then visit the museum and tasting bar (can only taste a maximum of 3). You can also visit their shop for well priced bottles of whisky's. Tip - there is also a restaurant as well which you can further order a whisky tasting set to sample three more Nikka whisky's, I cannot remember which whisky's they were though on the menu.
Johnny Cong — Google review
Manage to get a booking to enter the distillery tour in advance. Advance reservation required. It was free. It was a great experience and seeing the history and process of whisky making. The free tasting was such a treat. I wouldn’t come again though because I think it’s good enough to come once and experience it all also because it’s much further out from the city.
Lee Chalyn — Google review
Great side trip from Sapporo. The guided tour is only in Japanese, but the videos and pamphlet are more than required. The tasting room is amazing. You can get whiskey that can be found no where else at minimal cost. I only wish you could buy the bottles of what you enjoyed.
Chad D — Google review
This distillery brought back bittersweet memories of my first trip here back in 2016. A guided tour is available but needs to pre-book way ahead. While I took JR from Sapporo to Yoichi 7 years ago, this time I drove a rental car all the way here.
Without guided tour, we just walked around admiring the powdery view of the distillates covered in snow; then I went to their tasting room while the kids played with snow outside. They had changed a lot since my last visit and it’s more elegant and bigger space displaying the whiskies and history of the distillery. I paid for whisky tasting flight before buying the distillery exclusive whisky from the retail shop.
Boon Loong Leo — Google review
Representing Japanese whiskey made in Japan.
Museum where you can feel the effort and talent of the makers is free to see.(booking required for tour)
There is a paid tasting corner where you can try some whiskies that you can only try here. It is not that crowded in the afternoon on weekdays.
The souvenir store is well stocked with original goods, and many wealthy Chinese buy the limited edition whisky.
The restaurant is delicious! However, there is no children's menu. This place is not big, so the seats were almost full even on weekdays.
chunenma-i — Google review
Reservations required, usually one month in advance. But worth it if you're a whisky lover. Distillery was beautiful in the winter snow. Free tasting of apple wine, super Nikka, Yoichi single malt. Paid tasting for some never to be seen elsewhere whisky such as Yoichi Single Cask 10 years. Museum was very informative too.
Lim Chong Yan — Google review
Best place to visit when you are in Yoichi! We came especially to visit the distillery and it worth a visit!
Free admission to enter, wonderful environment, the building are well planned, good floor plan and most important, spectacular whiskey!
The distillery offers free whiskey tasting, although the selection of the free tasting are more entry level bottles, the quality is still good! On the other hand, the distillery also offers a separate bar area for paid tasting which includes selective award winning bottles, this is definitely one of the best places to go if you are a whiskey lover!
Don’t forget to purchase souvenirs at the merchandise store when leaving!
Luis Hsu — Google review
A nice visit for those who enjoy whiskey.
A lot of the buildings were closed due to snow/winter but we still got a good view of the grounds.
If you don’t speak Japanese, stay at the front of the tour as the guide will have a sheet explaining what is being said in English.
The tour guide and staff were very kind and generous, squeezing me into a last minute tour.
Make sure you try the samples, I’d recommended the Apple wine or Highballs.
Stuart Harper — Google review
The tour is speechless — it’s thorough, time-efficient, well-organized, and takes you to a really close look of the whisky making process. And it’s for free? I’ve lost my words. The whole place, aside from and on top of the tour experience, is simply inspiring and extraordinary. So much worth of your two-way train ride from Otaru even just for this distillery tour itself.
Kyuwon Lee — Google review
This is a very interesting place to visit, I believe that you don’t have to be a whisky drinker to appreciate the history behind this fascinating company, I’ve often seen the logo and the neon sign in Sapporo but never gave any thought about the product. Unfortunately, I couldn’t get on the 70-minute tour as it was fully booked but I strolled through the museum to see the different whiskies that have been produced over time, this company actually started out as a fruit juice company while waiting for the whisky to mature, after the museum stroll I couldn’t resist spending some time and money in the souvenir shop where I bought a single malt for 68,000yen which I believe is quite reasonable. This is a must visit destination but book early to avoid the disappointment of missing out on the tour.
Shinboner — Google review
While there was no English tour available when we were there, one of the security staff held cards with information about the distillery while the tour guide talked. As I have visited many distilleries, I was more interested in seeing the site than learning about the distillation method anyway.
It was a pleasure to visit Nikka and learn more about the founder and his wife Rita. Their story would make an excellent movie. The obstacles they overcame for Nikka to become the first Japanese whisky distillery are many.
Wonderful place to visit, and Yoichi is a nice place as well.
Rick L — Google review
The distillery is very conveniently located just across the Yoichi railway station. However trains are not very regular, so it takes some planning to match the train arrivals with the time of the tour. The tour is free, though reservations must be made in advance on their official website. There are many time slots each day to choose from, but it gets filled up fast, so if you have decided a date to visit, be sure to make the reservation 4 weeks earlier (as they accept reservations up to 4 weeks in advance). The tour is in Japanese, but instructions will be provided for downloading the "MyGuide" app and connecting to the pre-recorded audio guide. The grounds are beautiful, and at the end of the tour you get to sample 3 drinks (Apple Wine, Super Nikka, and Single-malt Yoichi) for free. If you are into collecting stamps, then there are supposedly 4 locations with stamps of different colors that will complete the "Thank you for coming!" picture. Unfortunately we only realized this when we were leaving, so could not get the other colors stamped on the card. Highly recommended.
WL Lim — Google review
Amazing whiskies! Some of my fav and the sole reason I got into fine whisky! It was a bottle of 21 year old Nikka Taketsuri that really opened my mind and changed my taste buds from Johny Walker Black to single malts! Since then I’ve embarked on a deep and expensive journey of enjoying fine whisky from the around the world!
Petko Petkov — Google review
The tasting bar was the highlight. Just come here and taste it. Not an alcoholic, it’s a museum after all. The whiskeys are amazingly tasty and amazingly cheap.
Jumi — Google review
We went there without knowing that we needed to get tickets for guided tour in advance. Thank God the counter lady managed to slot us in. The whiskey tasting is the main highlight of the day!
Jun Yea Chai (dLOFT architects) — Google review
It’s been years since I wanted to come here and I finally made it.
Highly recommend it to any whisky / Nikka lovers.
I arrived in Yoichi at 8:30am but my tour was only at 10am. They allowed me to cruise around the distillery grounds, Museum, tasting bar and gift shop.
Tour start at 10am and it was brilliant. You’ll have to see if for yourself when you come.
Staff were super helpful and friendly. Perfect side day trip if you’re staying in Sapporo.
A few days ago I went also to Nikka Miyagikyo distillery in Sendai. They’re both wonderful. There were a bit less option of tasting premium whiskys here at Yoichi, also the gift shop had less options of bottles. I guess because Yoichi is busier.
Overall, amazing! Worth coming all the way up here and taste the best whiskys and learn a bit of these masterpieces!
Jorge Taconelli Saito (Jimi Loudie) — Google review
took the whisky guided tour (70min, free drinks, advance reservation required) and was definitely worth it. beautiful place, lots of things to learn and see especially if you are Japanese whisky lover. highly recommended. Thank you Takahashi-san!
George Yap — Google review
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7 Chome-6 Kurokawacho, Yoichi, Yoichi District, Hokkaido 046-0003, Japan
Hotel Torifito Otaru Canal is a charming and unpretentious hotel that has been reimagined from the vintage Hokkaido Echuya Hotel, which was originally built in 1937. The hotel holds historical significance as it was the first hotel in Hokkaido exclusively for overseas visitors and later repurposed by the military during wartime. Designated as a historical building, it has undergone a bold renovation while preserving its historical aesthetics.
My wallet was lost on 19 Feb 2024. After thorough check in our own room, we didn't find it and proceed to seek help from the Front Desk Officer.
These two kind gentlemen (who refused to be named) assisted me to contact local authority, and confirmed that the wallet was found in local police station. They were highly effective and diligent, and I truly appreciate their assistance. They were on duty at 8:50pm 19 Feb 2024. My heroes of the day!
Of course, my gratitude to the person who reported the lost wallet to local police
I would like to highly recommend this hotel to all visitors who stay in Otaru.
Soo Sing Choi — Google review
Newly-opened, clean and comfortable hotel with reasonable price. The location is just nearby the Otaru canal (5 minutes) and in a walkable distance to the Sakaimachi street (15 minutes), a strategic location for restaurants and shopping. The room was very comfortable and quite spacious. Overall, I had a really pleasant stay here except that they charge 1000 yen parking fee while the other hotels normally offer free parking space for guests.
Pavinee — Google review
Good location and comfortable beds this hotel is a great choice if you are in Otaru.
The room was a bit small, as well as the bathroom but in line with the Japanese standards.
No complementary water provided, 1000¥ for the parking.
Pier RK — Google review
We booked two rooms and both rooms smelled. The bathroom also had a strange odor. Bathhouse was crowded in the evening. They charged us 1500 yen per night for parking. We left the car in the parking lot after checking out and visited the museums nearby. Upon leaving, they charged us an additional 3000 yen (1000 yen per hour), which they didn’t tell us about when checking in. The only good thing was that the hotel was in a convenient location.
Esther Kao — Google review
Excellent modern hotel with a great location. A walkable distance from Otaru Canal and the historic areas downtown. The rooms are comfortable and spacious. The bathing area in the room is separate from the toilet, which makes it much more pleasant to use. There's also a large communal bathing area on the 1st floor which is open late and immaculately clean.
Nishant Annu — Google review
Staff are friendly and the room is big with tub very nice and cozy
However the people who have tattoos are unable to enter the osen which it's a culture of Japan
But it didn't show on the website so kinda unfair.
And I don't want to bother other people so I stay in my room.
Tattoo unfriendly
??? — Google review
Nice big rooms, close to the canal with a delicious breakfast. They have an onsen and someone at the front desk, no automated checkin. A big sink and separate toilet room. Plenty of electric outlets. They have parking next door. Hot water and fast WiFi.
James Wernicke Sr. — Google review
The hotel is more a boutique styled one however without the perks such as a bar or communal areas. There was a set of public baths which we didn't get a chance to use.
The hotel is located perfectly as it is right near the famous Otaru Canal and other tourist hotspots, and the room is 17m2 which is typical of Japanese hotels. We had a problem with the water pressure in our bathroom, which would ease off for minutes at a time and then restore itself.
We visited Otaru during the peak season and paid accordingly, however I wouldn't say its the best value - but it is recommended due to its location and cleanliness. Also, we would like to specially thank the manager Shinji Okuda for handling the minor issue we had upon check-in in a professional and accommodating manner.
CC Wong — Google review
Hotel room is extremely small but consider he price we pay, it’s really live up the value.
We stays in the western tatami room, it’s nice and clean. Public bath is small but there ain’t much hotel offer public bath in Otaru at this price range, so it’s totally acceptable. (Check out the painting the the bath, one paints Canal, lower right is so funny and doesn’t make sense!)
But mine the car park. It offer indoor parking for a fee. We rent a 2019 FIT, a very popular rental car, they tried but the parking elevator keeps on saying it’s over hight thus forced us to pay extra to use the outdoor parking. Result is pile of snow every morning and we wasted a lot of time to wipe the snow.
And the staff.... not exactly hospitality staff.... the females staff are pretty nice but male... we though we are in US Motel.... that should say how the male staff attitude.
Sbug Sbug (Oki-Family) — Google review
The hotel itself was ok and clean.. no wow but ok.. the location was great as it was very near to the Otaru Canal BUT the service was very bad.. most of the staff was ok but there are a certain staff was quite rude even for non japanese standard. After taking bath at the communal bath.. I was probably dipped too long and get a bit dizzy and disorientated so I took a seat outside the communal bath to rest a bit. Then when we walk to the lift to go up the room. Instead of asking if I am feeling alright I was asked our room number and to show our room card by one of the lady staff from the front desk. We was wearing their hotel pyjamas and who else will have their pyjamas? We felt offended as we have booked 3 nights at the hotel and that was our 2nd night..
Then, the other day we wanted to use the washing machine and there are clothes inside which has already done. As per instruction on the washing machine, we asked the front desk to help where one of staff wanted to help to take the clothes out but the same lady staff asked us to wait for another 15mins. There are a clear instruction that if the clothes in the washing machine is done and other guest wanted to use the machine, they will help to clear it out. We felt offended for the 2nd time. Its not like our time is worthless as we need to go out to enjoy our day in Otaru also.
The rate of the hotel and service doesn't justify. Better just book other similar rate hotel nearby. Other than that particular lady staff from the front desk, the other staff were quite ok and friendly
Ryan P — Google review
Parking slots are limited, need to park at the opposite lot with 1000 yen charge per day. People with tattoo are not allow to enter the public bath, quire unfair as they didn't mention in their webpage.
PUAN YEE HONG — Google review
Would like to give a huge compliment to the wonderful staff of Hotel Torifito! We are grateful for the warmth and kindness of Japanese people here, especially the young lady at the check in counter (sorry I couldn't get your name!) who helped us with dinner reservations and answered our queries. The reservation manager Okuda San was also very helpful with changing our room type even though we have already checked in. Everyone from the counter staff, cleaning staff, breakfast staff were so friendly and helpful.
Thank you for the beautiful surprise to celebrate my parents anniversary too, we are very touched. The breakfast spread was so delicious and generous, with sashimi, Hokkaido vegetables, ankesoba with mapo tofu, hokkaido milk and yoghurt, and my favourite salted squid and sakura ebi pasta!
Rooms were clean, new and very exquisitely decorated with the port town theme. Best CP value hotel in Otaru. You have made our short stay in Otaru so pleasant and happy, and we hope to visit again.
LX — Google review
Good hotel with comfortable Beds. Rooms are spacious and the staff is nice.
TV isn't the best but big and usable.
Manuel Kunze — Google review
The rooms are comfy and great value for what you are paying for. Carpark is available at 1500yen per day
Henry Chan — Google review
Room was pretty good and location is great for visiting the canal area. Reception desk service not so great, maybe only one person seemed friendly, everyone else was cold and unwelcoming. Probably not a hotel that I would book again, even though it was good otherwise.
Angela Pan Art — Google review
I tried to book a room on Agoda, and the system encountered an error. I accidentally booked two different rooms without realizing it. Although a service agent from Agoda attempted to help me negotiate with them, the efforts were unsuccessful. In the end, I had to pay for both rooms.
They will issue you a ticket and get your car keys away, you have to show your ticket to them to get your car key everytime
fffvej — Google review
Title: Convenient Location with Room for Improvement
Period of stay: Dec 10 to 12, 2023
Room Type: 1 X Family 4 persons (24 m²/258 ft² | Non-smoking | 1 bunk bed and 2 single beds)
My recent stay at Hotel Torifito Otaru Canal offered a mix of convenience and drawbacks, making it a reasonably satisfactory experience overall.
Pros:
1. **Prime Location**: The hotel's greatest asset is its convenient access to Otaru Canal, Sakaimachi Street, Sankaku Market, and other popular attractions. This made our exploration of the city seamless and enjoyable.
2. **Onsen Availability**: Although we didn't get the chance to enjoy it due to our packed travel itinerary, the presence of an onsen is a welcome feature for those seeking relaxation after a day of sightseeing.
3. **Friendly Staff**: The hotel staff were consistently warm and accommodating, contributing positively to our overall experience.
4. **Easy Access**: The hotel's accessibility was commendable, allowing for effortless travel arrangements and quick entry and exit.
Cons:
1. **Cramped Rooms**: One notable downside was the size of the rooms, particularly for a group of four with five 28" luggages. The limited space made it challenging to move around comfortably.
2. **Inefficient Washing Facilities**: The hotel's washing machines, although available, proved to be a disappointment. The machines were not industrial-grade, and after the wash and dry cycle, clothes remained damp. Additionally, the machines were dirty and poorly maintained, leading to long wait times due to the limited availability.
3. **Charges for Parking**: The hotel charged for parking, following a first-in, first-out (FIFO) system. While this might be standard, it's worth noting for travelers on a budget.
While the rooms may not be ideal for families with numerous luggages, the hotel's strategic location compensates for some of its shortcomings. The proximity to key attractions, friendly staff, and ease of access make Hotel Torifito Otaru Canal a viable option for those willing to compromise on certain amenities. However, improvements in room size and laundry facilities would significantly enhance the overall guest experience.
Jason Lim — Google review
hotel is new,
staff explanation is clear, polite.
follow the in house rules and it wont goes wrong.
for parking, park at opposite is cheaper, pay by cash when exit.
onsen area is small( can skip), checked out BEFORE 11am.
lawson is near, highly recommended
honey bee — Google review
The location of the hotel was convenient and near to the Otaru Canal. The staff was nice and the service was excellent. Check-in and check out procedure were smooth and fast. The room was cozy and clean. Recommend to stay in this hotel.
sf c — Google review
Staff are friendly and helpful with a lot of patients. Enthusiastic on helping to answer all the queries. Rooms are clean and big. The mini Mart is just located beside the hotel. 10mins walk to the Otaru station.
T Ch — Google review
4.2
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4.0
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1 Chome-5-7 Ironai, Otaru, Hokkaido 047-0031, Japan