Free Nature Bath: Immerse Yourself at Hirayu no Yu
Nestled amidst stunning mountains, Hirayu Onsen ⭐is renowned for its rejuvenating hot springs. Escape the city's clamor and immerse yourself in tranquility. Enjoy easy access with direct express buses from Tokyo. Whether you seek relaxation, outdoor adventures, or authentic Japanese experiences, this charming town caters to all.
Highlights include:
Soaking in natural hot springs: Rejuvenate in the mineral-rich waters.
Exploring the outdoors: Enjoy hiking, skiing, and other activities in the scenic surroundings.
Immersing in local culture: Stay at a ryokan and savor the local cuisine for an authentic experience.
Accessing Okuhida Onsengo 奥飛騨温泉郷: By Train or bus (link)
Finding Peace in Hirayu Onsen
Spending two nights in Hirayu Onsen provided plenty of time to enjoy the healing mineral waters and explore nearby attractions such as the Shinhotaka Ropeway. Although the off-season meant missing out on Kamikōchi, the experience was still incredibly rejuvenating and fulfilling.
Hirayukan 平湯館
The ryokan boasted both indoor and outdoor onsen, alternating between genders daily. Immersed in these mineral-rich waters, I found ultimate relaxation. The cuisine was equally delightful, completing the perfect getaway.
A Quiet Day in a Berlin Park, 1933 In the early 1930s, Takehisa Yumeji's studio became a hub for artists, inspiring ventures like the Mt. Haruna Art Research Institute. In 1931, Yumeji began a journey to the United States and Europe, supported by exhibitions of his work. While in the U.S. for 16 months, he continued to paint, creating pieces like Nude on the West Coast. Afterward, Yumeji taught in Berlin until the school was closed by the Nazis. He returned to Japan in 1933, his overseas experiences shaping his final works. His last exhibition was held in Taipei that year. Yumeji passed away from tuberculosis in 1934, leaving behind a legacy of beauty and cultural exchange. Read more: Prints in Collection—Takehisa Yumeji (1884-1934) Kuronosuke 黒の助: a Legacy Little Black Cat (YouTube link ) Photo Gallery The Yumeji Art Museum in Okayama exhibits many black cat paintings because the artist, Yumeji Takehisa , frequently featured them in his work, particularly in his bij...
Hagi City , Yamaguchi Prefecture, Japan, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its maritime and historical significance, particularly from the Edo period and Meiji Restoration . This coastal town captivates with its well-preserved samurai districts, pine-lined roads, clear waterways, and serene ambiance, evoking a nostalgic journey back in time. Historical figures like Yoshida Shoin and Shinsaku Takasugi shaped its legacy. Cycling, boat trips, temple visits, and local specialties like summer tangerines and Hagi ware highlight Hagi’s charm. Hidden gems like Tokoji Temple make it a must-visit for an authentic, enriching experience. Japan’s Timeless Beauty – 2 Days in Hagi, a World Heritage Town (YouTube link ) Things to Do Boat Trip: A 40-minute sightseeing boat tour provides a unique perspective of Hagi, with reflections on the town’s historical significance during the ride. Bicycle Rental: You can rent a bike at the station, which is a recommended way to explore Hagi. C...
This is a passageway leading to Nankai-Namba Station. Be aware that underground passages in Japan can be quite complex for visitors. When you arrive at Kansai International Airport (symbol: KIX) and try to reach your destinations via trains, sometimes you need to make connections at Namba Station (see Fig. 2). Namba Station is one of the main connection points (the other two are Umeda and Tennoji Stations). But, Namba Station actually means 4 different stations on Google map (see Fig. 3&4) : Namba Station (Subway): This station provides access to the Osaka Metro lines: Midosuji (see Fig. 4), Sennichimae , and Yotsubashi . These lines can take you to popular destinations like Osaka Station, Koreatown, Honmachi, and Nippombashi. JR-Namba Station: This smaller station has only four tracks and two platforms. It's located within the Osaka City Air Terminal (OCAT) building, and the entrance can be easy to miss. Thankfully, it's connected to the ...
