One of Japan's Three Great Hidden Scenic Spots: "Iya" in Tokushima Prefecture

One of Japan's Three Great Hidden Scenic Spots: "Iya" in Tokushima Prefecture

The Iya River stretches 10 kilometers, and within this lush, wooded gorge, one can see the sheer cliffs carved by nature, showcasing the unparalleled craftsmanship of the natural world. The Iya region can be simply divided into East Iya and West Iya. To the west, there are the Iya River hot springs, while to the east lies the hidden scenic village of Ochiai and Tsurugi Mountain, the second highest mountain in Western Japan.
Japan's Three Great Cat Legends: The Hidden Shrine of Tokushima with Over Ten Thousand Lucky Cats

Japan's Three Great Cat Legends: The Hidden Shrine of Tokushima with Over Ten Thousand Lucky Cats

In Tokushima, there is a paradise for cat enthusiasts called "Amasu Daigongen Shrine" (お松大権現). This shrine was established based on Japan's three great cat legends and is adorned both inside and out with cat decorations and stone cat statues. A special area has been created to house over ten thousand fortune cats of varying sizes. Cat lovers shouldn't miss this hidden cat shrine in Tokushima!
Experience the Stunning Natural Scenery of the Naruto Whirlpool in Tokushima

Experience the Stunning Natural Scenery of the Naruto Whirlpool in Tokushima

Japan is rich in natural beauty, and when it comes to the most famous tourist attractions in Tokushima Prefecture on Shikoku Island, the Naruto Whirlpool is certainly among the top. It is particularly spectacular during the spring and autumn tides, with diameters reaching up to 20 meters when timed with the tidal schedule. Travelers can choose to take a sightseeing boat for a close-up view of the whirlpool or enjoy the breathtaking sight from above on the Great Naruto Bridge, making for an unforgettable experience.
Tokushima Mima City Historic Street: Home of Artisans

Tokushima Mima City Historic Street: Home of Artisans

Located in eastern Shikoku, Tokushima Prefecture serves as the starting point for the pilgrimage of the 88 sacred sites of Shikoku. Its long and rich history has given rise to unique cultures such as Awa Odori and Awa indigo dyeing. About 40 kilometers from Tokushima City, Mima City not only preserves wooden houses built during the Edo period but is also a hub for traditional indigo dyeing and washi (Japanese paper) artisans, making it an ideal destination for a cultural experience.
Shikoku, Japan: Discover the Hidden Beauty of Tokushima Prefecture's Iya Region

Shikoku, Japan: Discover the Hidden Beauty of Tokushima Prefecture's Iya Region

When it comes to Shikoku, one cannot overlook Tokushima Prefecture's Iya region, known for its rich natural resources and historical cultural heritage. As one of Japan's three great hidden scenic spots, Iya is remote yet preserves its pristine landscapes, rustic vine bridges, magnificent waterfalls, and relaxing hot springs, making it an ideal destination for experiencing Japan's rural scenery and enjoying green tourism.
Japan Travel Guide! 6 Must-Visit Attractions in Tokushima, Japan

Japan Travel Guide! 6 Must-Visit Attractions in Tokushima, Japan

Tokushima in Shikoku is renowned for its abundant natural resources, breathtaking landscapes, rich history, and distinctive Awa culture. With a plethora of attractions to explore, ranging from hidden gems and remarkable bridges to unique tidal phenomena, we have curated a selection of six must-visit spots in Tokushima for you to fully immerse yourself in the allure of this region from a myriad of perspectives.
Exploring Glamping in Japan: Discovering the Best Sites!

Exploring Glamping in Japan: Discovering the Best Sites!

If you want to get close to nature but don't want the hassle of traditional camping, what should you do? Consider glamping! Glamping has become popular not only in its origins in Australia and Africa but also in Japan. To help you enjoy this luxurious outdoor experience, I've gathered information on three major glamping destinations in Japan—Tokyo, Yonago, and Osaka—so you can easily connect with nature while in Japan.
Tottori: A Journey to the Roots of Gegege no Kitaro and Detective Conan

Tottori: A Journey to the Roots of Gegege no Kitaro and Detective Conan

To attract more visitors, towns across Japan are getting creative. In Tottori Prefecture, both Sakaiminato City and Hokuei Town have developed anime-themed attractions dedicated to Shigeru Mizuki, the creator of Gegege no Kitaro, and Gosho Aoyama, the creator of Detective Conan. Even the airports are named "Yonago Kitaro Airport" and "Tottori Sand Dunes Conan Airport," immersing travelers in the worlds of Kitaro and Conan from the moment they arrive!
The Aroma of Coffee in the Air! Recommended Cafés in Yonago

The Aroma of Coffee in the Air! Recommended Cafés in Yonago

Although Tottori Prefecture has the smallest population in Japan, it was once ranked first in coffee consumption nationwide. This is because the residents of Tottori Prefecture are coffee enthusiasts. As a result, you can find many high-quality cafes in Yonago, Sakaiminato, and Tottori City. Here are three selected cafes in Yonago that will not disappoint you in terms of atmosphere and food quality!
Tottori Sand Dunes: The Magical Wonders of Nature

Tottori Sand Dunes: The Magical Wonders of Nature

Yonago City, one of the two major cities in Tottori Prefecture, is a must-visit spot in the region—the largest coastal sand dune in Japan, the "Tottori Sand Dunes." Here, you can experience the incredible craftsmanship of nature. The Tottori Sand Dunes are located near the center of Tottori City, making them easily accessible. You can take a bus from JR Tottori Station heading towards the sand dunes, which takes about 22 minutes. Alternatively, you can use the Kirin bus for transportation.
Recharge Journey: Tottori Misasa Onsen Village Ryokan Recommendations

Recharge Journey: Tottori Misasa Onsen Village Ryokan Recommendations

In Tottori Prefecture, Misasa Onsen, Kaike Onsen, and Togo Onsen are all considered prestigious hot spring villages in Japan. Among them, Misasa Onsen Village, located in Tohaku District, Tottori, has been selected as one of Japan’s top 100 hot springs. It is also adjacent to the popular tourist destination of Kurayoshi in central Tottori and the national treasure, Mitokusan Sanbutsu-ji Nageiredo. Many visitors stop by Misasa Onsen after exploring Kurayoshi to relax in the healing hot springs and then challenge themselves by visiting Nageiredo the next day.
Recharge Trip: Tottori Daisen Family Adventure

Recharge Trip: Tottori Daisen Family Adventure

Tottori Daisen, part of Japan's third National Daisen-Oki National Park, is formed by eight mountain peaks. At 1,729 meters, Daisen is the highest peak in the San'in and Sanyo regions and is also known as "Hoki Fuji." Daisen has been selected as one of Japan's 100 famous mountains. As a sacred site for Buddhism, the mountain was closed to the public until the Meiji era, allowing it to preserve its pristine natural environment. It boasts the largest beech forest in western Japan, offering stunning views and making it a popular destination for hiking and winter skiing. No wonder it’s considered a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts.
Tottori’s Ultimate Fishing Port! Sakaiminato – A Seafood Haven

Tottori’s Ultimate Fishing Port! Sakaiminato – A Seafood Haven

Tottori Prefecture, located between the Sea of Japan and Japan’s Chugoku Mountain Range, is about a three-hour journey from Osaka or Kyoto. Thanks to Greater Bay Airlines’ new direct flights from Hong Kong to Yonago, access to Tottori has become much more convenient. Sakaiminato, in the western part of Tottori, is one of Japan's top fishing ports, producing 60% of the country's red snow crabs. This has solidified the association of "Tottori = Crab Prefecture" in the minds of many. Visitors coming to Sakaiminato during crab season must indulge in this seafood treasure trove!
Hidden Gems of Tottori - Top 5 Must-Visit Photo Spots

Hidden Gems of Tottori - Top 5 Must-Visit Photo Spots

Taking photos during trips and sharing the sights and experiences with friends on social media is a great way to extend the joy of travel! Tottori Prefecture, located in the western part of Japan's Honshu Island, boasts rich natural landscapes and local historical architecture, offering countless scenic spots worth visiting. Here, we present five must-visit photo spots in Tottori. Make the most of your holiday and enjoy Tottori to the fullest!
Top 3 Glamping Sites in Tottori City – Only 15 Minutes from the City Center

Top 3 Glamping Sites in Tottori City – Only 15 Minutes from the City Center

In recent years, many travelers have been opting to stay at "Glamping" sites that do not require bringing their own tents or camping equipment, allowing them to easily enjoy the luxury camping experience with top-notch facilities and services. Tottori Prefecture, rich in natural resources, is particularly well-suited for activities like Glamping. Within the prefecture, you can find a variety of unique Glamping sites such as starry domes and cabins, many equipped with luxuries like air conditioning and private bathrooms. Even camping beginners can easily get close to nature in Tottori!
Hong Kong Local Street Food Guide: A Day of Tasting Adventure in Shau Kei Wan's Main Street

Hong Kong Local Street Food Guide: A Day of Tasting Adventure in Shau Kei Wan's Main Street

When visiting Hong Kong, immersing yourself in the local food and drink scene is an essential experience. Popular districts like Causeway Bay, Tsim Sha Tsui, and Mong Kok boast a diverse array of restaurants catering to various palates. Moreover, the city is home to numerous hidden gem eateries waiting to be discovered. Hong Kong Island's Shau Kei Wan, East Street, renowned as the Michelin street of the Eastern District in Hong Kong, hosts over 50 eateries in just a short stretch, drawing many locals to explore the area for culinary delights.
Exploring Island Scenery in Zhoushan, Zhejiang: Mount Putuo Pilgrimage Guide

Exploring Island Scenery in Zhoushan, Zhejiang: Mount Putuo Pilgrimage Guide

The four major Buddhist sacred sites in China are Mount Wutai in Shanxi, Mount Putuo in Zhejiang, Mount Emei in Sichuan, and Mount Jiuhua in Anhui. Among them, Mount Putuo in the Zhoushan Archipelago of Zhejiang is not only a place dedicated to Guanyin Bodhisattva(觀世音菩薩) but also a famous island scenic tourist destination. The island boasts beautiful scenery, numerous cultural relics, and historical sites that are unparalleled nationwide. To experience the charm of Putuo Mountain, plan for at least two to three days.
Mount Putuo in Zhoushan, Zhejiang Province: A Travel Guide of Nature and Spirituality

Mount Putuo in Zhoushan, Zhejiang Province: A Travel Guide of Nature and Spirituality

Mount Putuo, situated in Zhoushan City, Zhejiang Province, is one of China's four major Buddhist mountains, renowned for its stunning natural scenery and deep Buddhist culture. This is the abode of Guanyin, the Goddess of Mercy, with incense burning throughout the year. It serves not only as a sacred site for pilgrims but also as a haven for nature and culture enthusiasts.
Experiencing Hong Kong's Traditional Lunar New Year - Part III

Experiencing Hong Kong's Traditional Lunar New Year - Part III

Chinese New Year, which usually falls between late January and mid-February in the Gregorian calendar, is the longest holiday in Hong Kong, spanning from the eve of the Lunar New Year (the 30th day of the twelfth lunar month) to the third day of the first lunar month. Apart from reuniting with family, exchanging New Year greetings, and wishing each other good luck for the upcoming year, there are also numerous lively celebratory events. You might consider following the locals and experiencing the authentic New Year culture of Hong Kong.
Experience Hong Kong's Traditional Lunar New Year - Part I

Experience Hong Kong's Traditional Lunar New Year - Part I

With the Lunar New Year approaching, households are getting busy preparing for the festivities by purchasing Lunar New Year goods. From abalones, ginseng, and shark fins to melon seeds and candies, from home decorations to new year clothing, Hong Kong, an international metropolis, still preserves many traditional customs. Why not take a stroll through the Lunar New Year markets in Hong Kong, Kowloon, and the New Territories to experience an authentic Hong Kong Lunar New Year celebration.