Unveiling Tottori: Japan's Hidden Gem Where Nature, Culture, and Adventure Collide

Japan's Least Populated Prefecture | Tottori Prefecture Travel Guide (YouTube link)

Tottori & Kinosaki ONSEN (YouTube link)

Tottori Prefecture, nestled on the Sea of Japan coast, holds the distinction of being Japan's least populated prefecture. However, what it lacks in crowds, it more than makes up for in natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and off-the-beaten-path charm.

Tottori offers a unique blend of mountains, coastline, and charming towns, making it an ideal destination for travelers seeking a tranquil and authentic Japanese experience.

Discovering Tranquility: Shitori Shrine (YouTube link)

Here's a glimpse into what awaits you in Tottori:

Natural Wonders:

• Tottori Sand Dunes: The crown jewel of Tottori is the vast Tottori Sand Dunes, stretching for over 16 kilometers along the coast. These impressive dunes, reaching heights of up to 50 meters, are a haven for sandboarding, camel rides, and exploring the unique desert-like landscape.
• Mt. Mitoku: It is located in Tottori Prefecture, Japan, is a sacred mountain revered for its natural beauty and spiritual significance. It's home to several temples and shrines, including the famous Sanbutsu-ji Temple, which houses important Buddhist artifacts. 
• The mountain offers stunning hiking trails with breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside. Visitors can also enjoy hot spring baths and local cuisine, making it a popular destination for nature lovers and spiritual seekers.
• Mount Daisen: A dormant volcano, Mount Daisen is a majestic peak offering stunning vistas, hiking trails, and a chance to soak in natural beauty. You can find charming villages, hidden waterfalls, and serene hot springs nestled around the mountain.
• Uradome Coast: This scenic coastline boasts dramatic rock formations, secluded beaches, and crystal-clear waters. Take a boat tour to admire the unique rock formations and spot marine life.

【Tottori/鳥取】MISASA Hot Springs〔三朝温泉〕(YouTube link)

Cultural Delights:

• Traditional Crafts: Tottori is a treasure trove of traditional crafts. Witness the creation of beautiful woodblock prints, delicate lacquerware, and exquisite ceramics.
• Sand Museum: A unique highlight of Tottori is the annual Sand Museum (online ticket booking; time: 1 hr), showcasing intricate sculptures made entirely of sand. The artistry and detail of these sculptures are truly awe-inspiring.
• Shrine and Temple Visits: Explore the numerous shrines and temples scattered throughout Tottori, offering a glimpse into Japan's rich spiritual heritage. Visit a serene sanctuary: Shitori Shrine or the renowned historical Sanbutsu-ji Temple.
• Misasa Onsen: Misasa Onsen, renowned for its high radon content, is a popular health resort. Soak in the therapeutic waters, especially at the riverside rotenburo. The charming town offers scenic bridges, historic temples, and the soothing sounds of nature.

Local Flavors:

• Tottori is a paradise for seafood lovers. Savor the freshest catch, including crab, sandfish, and delicious sea urchin. Don't miss the local specialty, "Tottori WagyuTottori Wagyu" beef, renowned for its melt-in-your-mouth tenderness.
• Eastern Tottori's twist on yakisoba? Look for "horu soba," a beloved local dish featuring beef entrails (horumon) served in over 30 eateries. Each shop offers its unique spin, so go on a culinary adventure and discover your favorite combination of sauce, entrails, and noodles!

Tottori may be off the beaten path, but it's precisely this aspect that makes it a gem waiting to be explored. With its stunning natural landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and friendly locals, Tottori promises an unforgettable Japanese adventure.

Download the timetable pdf (link)

References

1. JR鳥取駅・鳥取空港～鳥取砂丘へのアクセス
2. 空港～鳥取駅区間　連絡バス 時刻表(鳥取駅まで約20分)
3. 空港～倉吉駅・青山剛昌ふるさと館区間　連絡バス 時刻表
• The first bus (1便) from Kurayoshi Station to Tottori Airport requires a reservation. No reservations are needed for the other buses.
4. 鳥取砂丘周辺 Map & Information (pdf)
5. 鹿野そば道場
6. 三朝温泉　木屋旅館
7. 三朝観光 (pdf; good)
8. Misasa Onsen Official Site (transportation link)
• Tokyo (Haneda) Airport --ANA ~1h 25m--> Tottori Airport --Limousine bus ~45 mins --> JR Kurayoshi Station --local bus ~ 20m--> Misasa Onsen
• Misasa Onsen Kanko Shoko Center (8:55 AM) --1h 39m --> Tottori Airport (10:20 AM)
• Kurayoshi station (9:30 AM) --airport limousine 50m--> Tottori Airport (10:20 AM)
9. Mount Daisen Hiking Trail
10. Shukubo at Wakoin Temple (Buddhist cuisine) in Tottori (total: 13 posts)
11. Shoji Ueda Museum of Photography
12. Camel ride experience (in Japanese)
• Beginning January 2024, camel photo opportunities will be available only on Saturdays, Sundays, national holidays, and during school breaks including spring, summer, autumn, winter, Golden Week, and Silver Week.
13. Mt. Mitoku Reception Information Center (link)
14. Mt. Mitoku 三徳山 Hiking map (pdf)
• Round trip: 1h 30m - 2h
15. Sakai Dune Center Panoramic Hill Bus Pack (11/01/2024 - ~)
• Discount tickets can be purchased at Tottori Bus Terminal operated by Nihon Kotsu (日本交通株式会社).
16. Nihon Kotsu (日本交通株式会社) 
• Please note that bills other than 1,000 yen bills cannot be exchanged on route buses. Please prepare coins in advance.
17. 鳥取駅～砂丘 (Timetable pdf)

Side Trips from Takamatsu: A Cultural and Artistic Journey

Giving you the world’s best tour around Ritsurin Garden Part 1 (YouTube link)

Giving you the world’s best tour around Ritsurin Garden Part 2 (YouTube link)

Takamatsu (高松), the capital of Kagawa Prefecture, Japan's smallest prefecture, was once the primary entry point to Shikoku Island until the Seto Ohashi Bridge opened in 1988. During the Edo Period, the Matsudaira Clan, relatives of the Tokugawa Shogun, ruled Takamatsu's former castle town and the surrounding Sanuki Province. The clan is also credited with constructing Ritsurin Koen, one of Japan's most renowned gardens.

Autumn colors at Ritsurin Garden (栗林公園)

Things to Do

Takamatsu serves as a great base for exploring the nearby islands and cultural attractions.  Notable side trips from Takamatsu include:

• Ritsurin Garden (栗林公園): One of Japan's most famous gardens, featuring traditional tea houses, ponds, and walking paths.
• Yashima Park: A hilltop park with panoramic views of Takamatsu and the Seto Inland Sea (瀬戸内海).  Yashima Observatory offers stunning panoramic views of Takamatsu city and the nearby islands of Megijima and Ogijima. It's a delightful spot to watch ferries and boats navigating the waters below.
• Shikoku Village: The village is an open-air museum located in Takamatsu, Kagawa Prefecture, Japan. This charming village showcases a collection of traditional buildings and structures from across Shikoku Island, dating back to the Edo and Meiji periods.

The Insider Guide to Naoshima - Japan's Art Island Paradise (YouTube link)

• Naoshima Island: A Contemporary Art Haven.  For photographing rules, read this.
• Benesse House Museum: This iconic museum features works by renowned artists like James Turrell and Richard Serra, seamlessly integrated into the natural landscape.
• Chichu Art Museum: Housed underground, this museum showcases large-scale installations by artists like Claude Monet and James Turrell.  Advance ticket  reservations are compulsory here.
• Art House Project: Honmura, a quaint port town on Naoshima's eastern coast, hosts the Art House Project, transforming abandoned houses, a temple, and a shrine into contemporary art installations. These spaces, integrated into the traditional neighborhood, provide a unique and immersive experience for visitors.  There's one  art house in particular, called Minamidera,  which has a visitor limit each day. I think  it's the best of the permanent installations,  so I highly recommend booking your slot as soon  as you can. Actually, since opening hours for the art house installations are also limited,  if you want to try and see all of  them, it pays to get here early too.
• Lee Ufan Museum: The museum is a contemporary art museum dedicated to the works of Korean artist Lee Ufan. The museum is known for its minimalist and serene atmosphere, which complements Ufan's abstract and meditative art. 
• Yellow Pumpkin: This iconic yellow pumpkin sculpture by Yayoi Kusama is a must-see for art lovers and Instagram enthusiasts.
• Teshima Island: A Peaceful Retreat
• Teshima Art Museum: Designed by architect Rei Naito, this museum blends seamlessly with the island's natural beauty, featuring works by artists like Christo and Jeanne-Claude.
• Kotohira Shrine (金刀比羅宮): A Shinto Pilgrimage
• 1,368  Steps: This iconic staircase leads to the main shrine and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside.
• Kompirasan is a popular pilgrimage site despite its challenging approach. Starting in a touristy shopping arcade, visitors climb 785 steps (about 45 minutes) past auxiliary shrine buildings and museums to the main hall. There, they can enjoy views of Kotohira Town and visit the Ema Hall, which displays plates and pictures of various vessels, including a real mini submarine. For the adventurous, it's an additional 583 steps (45 minutes) through a forested path to the inner shrine (Okusha).
• Kanamaruza Kabuki Theater is a historic kabuki theater located in Takamatsu, Kagawa Prefecture, Japan. Built in 1890, Kanamaruza is one of the few remaining traditional kabuki theaters in Japan.
• Kotohira Museum: This museum houses a collection of Japanese art, including paintings, ceramics, and textiles.
• Omagari Bashi Bridge: This unique bridge is a popular spot for photography and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
• Marugame Castle: A well-preserved castle with beautiful gardens and a museum.

Whether you're an art lover, history buff, or simply seeking a peaceful getaway, Takamatsu and its surrounding islands offer a diverse range of attractions to suit all tastes.

Kompirasan, formally known as Kotohiragu (金刀比羅宮, Kotohiragū)

Official interactive approach map in Japanese

See Also:

1. KOTOHIRA-Gu Official Guide  (金刀比羅宮)
• List of annual events and special events
2. Benesse Art Site Naoshima
3. Aisunao (vegan restaurant)
4. Francoile
• Hours: 9 AM–6 PM (closed on Monday & Friday)
5. 四国汽船株式会社
• 高松→直島（宮浦）:
• 高速旅客船（約30分）: 7:20 AM, 9:20 AM, 8:30 PM
• フェリー（約50分）: 8:12 AM, 10:14 AM, 12:40 PM, 3:35 PM, 6:05 PM
• 直島（宮浦）→高松 : 
• 高速旅客船（約30分）: 6:45 AM, 8:40 AM, 7:45 PM
• フェリー（約60分）: 7:00 AM, 9:07 AM, 11:30 AM, 2:20 PM, 5:00 PM
6. Naoshima Town (Japanese + Google translation)
7. 金刀比羅宮の博物館施設 (Japanese)
• 表書院・高橋由一館・宝物館: ３館共通拝観券: 一般1,500円、高校大学生800円
8. JR-West (link)

Discover the Charm of Kinosaki Onsen

6 things to do at Kinosaki (YouTube link)

KINOSAKI ONSEN: A Serene Journey Through Japan's Hot Spring Paradise (YouTube link)

Onsen pilgrimage (Sotoyu Meguri or "Wander the hot spring trail") is a unique Japanese cultural experience.  It can offer numerous health benefits, including relaxation, stress relief, improved circulation, and pain relief. It's also a great way to connect with nature and experience traditional Japanese hospitality.

Kinosaki Onsen is a charming traditional onsen town in Hyogo Prefecture, Japan, renowned for its Onsen Pilgrimage (Sotoyu Meguri). This unique experience involves visiting seven public bathhouses, each with its distinct architectural style and ambiance. Visitors can rent a yukata (traditional Japanese robe) and geta (wooden sandals) and wander through the town, immersing themselves in the tranquil atmosphere. Each bathhouse offers a different bathing experience, from open-air baths surrounded by nature to indoor baths with soothing mineral waters. Kinosaki Onsen is a popular destination for those seeking relaxation, rejuvenation, and a taste of traditional Japanese culture.

Public baths (Sento 銭湯)

• Public baths are segregated by gender, and swimsuits are not worn (read more on bathing rules).
• Some sento, typically in hot spring resort towns, utilize natural hot spring water for their baths.
• More commonly, however, public baths simply use heated tap water instead.

Kinosaki Onsen's seven public baths (sotoyu), each with its unique charm:

• Goshono-yu: Open daily from 7:00 AM to 11:00 PM, except on Thursdays.
• Ichino-yu: Open daily from 7:00 AM to 11:00 PM, except on Wednesdays.
• Kounoyu: Open daily from 7:00 AM to 11:00 PM, except on Tuesdays.
• Mandara-yu: Open daily from 3:00 PM to 11:00 PM, except on Wednesdays.
• Yanagi-yu: Open daily from 3:00 PM to 11:00 PM, except on Thursdays.
• Jizo-yu: Open daily from 7:00 AM to 11:00 PM, except on Fridays.
• Satono Yu Onsen: Temporarily closed

Scattered throughout the town are also beautiful foot baths (ashiyu) and drinking fountains.

The best way to explore the area is to don a yukata (light kimono) and stroll leisurely among the many traditional ryokan. When visiting the public baths, it's recommended to bring your own towel or use one provided by your accommodation, although towels can also be purchased or rented at the bathhouse. Soap and shampoo are provided in the baths.

In essence, Kinosaki Onsen offers a unique opportunity to experience traditional Japanese bathing culture. With its seven distinct public baths and charming atmosphere, it's a must-visit destination for anyone seeking relaxation and cultural immersion.

Local Foods

Kinosaki Onsen offers a variety of foods including local specialties like matsuba-gani (snow crab season: November 6 to March 20), Tajima beef, izushi sara soba (buckwheat noodles; Mikura), and local sake. Enjoy fresh seafood such as konoshiro, a fatty fish from Kumihama Bay. 

References

1. Kinosaki Onsen Bathing in Tradition NHK WORLD
2. Akiu In the footsteps of a legendary warlord NHK WORLD
3. Japanese Public Bathing Exposed: The Naked Truth 日本の銭湯と熊鍋
4. Sento (銭湯) Guide (Kyoto)
• Kurama Onsen
• Tenzan No Yu
• http://www.day-onsen.com/area26.aspx (in Japanese)
• http://www.chikara-u.com/ (in Japanese)
5. Shigisan Hot Springs
6. Visit Kinosaki official site (link)
7. Goshono-Yu (Scroll down to the bottom to see the occupation rate at each Onsen.)
8. Takenohama Beach (YouTube link)

A Hidden Gem: The Enchanting Town of Onomichi

The Most Beautiful Japan City Nobody Talks About (YouTube link)

Onomichi is a quaint port town nestled along the scenic Seto Inland Sea in eastern Hiroshima Prefecture, Japan.  The town spreads out from the mainland onto neighboring islands, connected by the bridges of the Shimanami Kaido route.   ferries also operate between downtown and the islands, adding to Onomichi's nostalgic port town atmosphere.

Onomichi is characterized by its many slopes.  Many of the town's attractions are located along these slopes, and visitors will enjoy exploring the narrow alleys and streets that wind through the residential areas.  A popular activity for visitors is the Temple Walk, a 2.5 kilometer hike that winds its way past 25 temples.  Despite its compact size, Onomichi has played a significant role in Japanese culture.  Respected authors and directors were born in the city, and it has been the filming location for numerous movies and TV dramas.

Cat Alley:  Cat Alley (Neko no Hosomichi猫の細道 )

Click here for an interactive Onomichi map on Google MyMaps

Things to Do

Here are some of the things to see and do in Onomichi:

• Temple Walk 古寺めぐりコース: Hike along a scenic path that winds past 25 temples.
• Jodo-ji 浄土寺: Explore this temple said to have been built in 616.  
• The Temple Walk starts just north of the first bridge crossing over the train tracks, approximately 200 meters east of Onomichi Station.
• A taxi ride from Onomichi Station to the far end of the Temple Walk takes a few minutes and costs around 800 yen. Taxis are readily available in front of Onomichi Station, but may be hard to find at the other end of the Temple Walk.
• Senkoji Temple 千光寺: Admire the beautiful architecture of this historic temple.  Senkoji Temple is located at an altitude of 140m on the slopes of Mt. Daiho, overlooking Onomichi Port. It was founded by Kobo Daishi (in 806), and is said to have been restored by Tada Mitsunaka.
• Cat Alley:  Cat Alley (Neko no Hosomichi猫の細道 ) is a 200-meter-long alley running along the left side of Ushitora Shrine, the oldest shrine in Onomichi. It extends on both sides at the end of the alley, continuing silently, as if guarded by the camphor trees of Ushitora Shrine.
• Saikokuji Temple: See the interesting pairs of 2 meter high sandals hanging from the Niomon gate.
• Shimanami Kaido: Cycle or drive across this scenic route that connects Onomichi to Imabari on Shikoku Island.
• The Shimanami Kaido crosses six islands. Opened in 1999, it offers modern bridges and beautiful scenery of the Seto Inland Sea and island towns.
• Read this article for the bike rental information.
• Kosanji Temple:  Kosanji Temple (耕三寺, Kōsanji; Hours: 9 AM-5 PM), on Ikuchijima Island 生口島, belongs to the True Pure Land Sect of Japanese Buddhism. Founded in 1936 by a businessman devoted to his mother, the temple's construction spanned over 30 years. Many buildings are modeled after Japan's famous temples, including impressive replicas of Nikko Toshogu's Yomeimon Gate and Byodoin's Phoenix Hall, offering a colorful and varied complex.
• Cave of 1000 Buddhas 千仏洞地獄峡: This cave allows visitors to visually experience the Ojoyoshu, written by Pure Land Buddhism founder Genshin Wajo. The 350-meter-long cavern, made of Mount Fuji lava and Mount Asama burnt stones, depicts hell and paradise with carved scenes and around 1,000 stone Buddha statues by sculptors Magose Mitsuo and Shohachi from Imabari City. Today, as hell and paradise are often overlooked, we encourage you to revisit this cave.
• The Hill of Hope: As part of its artistic activities, the museum is working on "Hill of the Hope 未来心の丘," a 5,000-square-meter white marble garden by world-renowned sculptor Kuetani Iitto. The marble, mined in Carrara, Italy, was transported by container ship. The garden features monuments, squares, and paths of various shapes and sizes. Kuetani Iitto always considered harmony with nature, including the surrounding scenery, wind, rain, and light when creating his works.
• Onomichi City Museum of Art: The annual Onomichi City Art Exhibition, held every June since 1957 at the Onomichi City Museum of Art, showcases local artists' works and enriches the city's cultural vibrancy. It features Japanese and Western paintings, sculpture, crafts, calligraphy, photography, and design. The museum offers a great view of the city, especially in the misty mornings, and houses an impressive jewelry collection with intricate laces.
• Enjoy fresh seafood or other local delicacies
• Setouchi lemon: The Seto Inland Sea is known for its lemons, mandarins, and other citrus fruits. Onomichi, connecting many islands with the mainland, offers various "Setouchi lemon" products. From ice cream and sweet drinks to lemon-flavored beer, you can find these treats in most shops around Onomichi.
• Take a boat tour of the Seto Inland Sea.

Click here to find the starting point of Temple Walk on Google Map 

Download official Onomichi map (pdf or click to enlarge)

See Also

1. First-Timer's Guide to Shimanami Kaido Cycling
2. Bicycle rental at Google Map
3. Kiso Cycle (Line)
4. Setouchi Cruising (Timetable and Fares)
• Onomichi Port Terminal→生口島［瀬戸田港］
5. Setoda Sunset Beach
6. Sankoji Temple Mountain Ropeway (尾道 千光寺山ロープウェイ)
• The ropeway leave every 15 minutes. (Hours: 9 AM - 5:15 PM)
7. JR West Japan
• JR West Japan Train Operation Information

Sunshine and Tranquility: Unveiling Okayama, Japan's Hidden Gem

Top 10 Best Things To Do In Okayama, Japan (YouTube link)

Basking in the nickname "Land of Sunshine," Okayama 岡山市 boasts beautiful weather, perfect for exploring its many treasures. From serene gardens to captivating art and rich history, Okayama offers a delightful smorgasbord of experiences. Unlike the bustling crowds of other Japanese hotspots, Okayama allows you to immerse yourself in its charm at a relaxed pace.

Things to Do

Okayama is a destination worth visiting. It’s known for its beautiful landscapes, rich history, and cultural significance. Here are some highlights that make Okayama special:

• Okayama Korakuen Garden 岡山後楽園: One of Japan’s Three Best Landscape Gardens, offering peaceful walks and traditional landscape design.
• Featuring a pond, a plum grove, a tea plantation, and a Noh Stage, this circuit-style garden offers various attractions for visitors to enjoy. One must-see highlight is the view from atop Yuishinzan Hill, overlooking the garden. Visitors are encouraged to explore both the garden and Okayama Castle, which towers on the opposite shore of the garden's pond.
• Boat rental: Hekisuien offers Swan boats, hand rowing boats, and Peach boats for rental. Enjoy a relaxing time on the gently flowing Asahi River. Feel free to bring any drinks and food ordered from the café on board.
• Kibitsu Shrine: A significant religious site, once the head shrine of the Kibi Kingdom, is the region's most important shrine. It features long covered corridors and a striking main hall on the mountain. Legend says Prince Kibitsuhiko battled an ogre here, causing it to turn into a bird and fly away.
• Okayama Castle: Also known as “Crow Castle” due to its black exterior, it provides a glimpse into Japan’s feudal past.
• Inside the six-story castle keep, you'll find exhibits about the castle's history and development. Additionally, the castle park features a pottery studio where visitors can craft Bizen-yaki, a pottery type native to Okayama Prefecture. Advance reservations are recommended.
• Okayama Temple Walk: Okayama Temple Walk lets you wander amidst serene gardens and historic temples, soaking in the city's cultural and spiritual atmosphere.

Side Trips from Okayama

• Kurashiki Bikan Historical Quarter: A charming district with well-preserved Edo-period buildings, perfect for history enthusiasts.
• Inujima: An island known for its modern art installations and the Inujima Seirensho Museum.
• Bizen Osafune Japanese Sword Museum: Witness the Craft of Swordsmithing: Visit the Bizen Osafune Japanese Sword Museum.
• Kibi Plain (吉備路, Kibiji) : A charming area with an attractive 17-kilometer cycling route connecting Bizen-Ichinomiya and Soja Stations. The route follows the legend of Prince Kibitsuhiko, passing important shrines, temples, and burial mounds. While the trip can be made in either direction, it's easier to start from Bizen-Ichinomiya Station. Bicycles can be rented and returned at either station or the rental shop near Bitchu-Kokubunji Temple.  
• Naoshima: Naoshima (直島) is an island in the Seto Inland Sea that is known for its contemporary art museums, architecture and sculptures.

THE VENICE OF JAPAN | Exploring Kurashiki's Historical Town (YouTube link)

Exploring Himeji Castle: A Journey Through Architectural Splendor and Cultural Heritage

Himeji | Day Trip from Osaka (YouTube link)

Things to Do in Himeji

• Mount Shosha: Mount Shosha, home to the ancient Engyoji temple complex, is a short 30-minute journey from Himeji City center. Visitors can explore its expansive grounds and historic buildings, including the striking Maniden hall, after a scenic ropeway ride and a brief hike or a convenient minibus trip.
• Hours: 8:30 AM–5 PM
• Take bus number 8 from Himeji Station (North Exit 姫路駅［北口］) or Himeji Castle to "Mount Shosha Ropeway" (30 minutes, every 20 minutes). Then, take the ropeway (every 15 minutes) or hike up the mountain in 45-60 minutes.
• Himeji Castle: Himeji Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is an architectural gem with beautiful gardens, offering a unique cultural experience. However, consider potential crowds and travel time for a day trip from Osaka or Kyoto.
• Please bring a shoe bag: No outdoor shoes are allowed inside the buildings. You'll receive a plastic bag at the entrance. Please use your own bag to protect the environment.
• Hours: 9 AM - 4 PM (The best times to visit are a few hours before closing or right after opening to avoid crowds. Allocate at least 2 hours to explore the castle, more if it's crowded or if you take your time with stairs.)
• English guided tour (link): Time: ①10:00-11:45 ②13:00-14:45.  Tours are limited to 10 guests each. (Up to 20 guests per day.) Guide fee: Adults (19+) 1,000 yen.
• Kokoen (好古園, Kōkoen): KOKO-EN in Himeji City offers nine Edo Period-themed gardens, including the expansive “Garden of the Lord’s Residence” and a tea garden with a traditional tea house. This historical site, often featured in period dramas, provides picturesque views of Himeji Castle and a dining experience at “Kassui-ken” restaurant.
• Hours: 9 AM - 5 PM (Autumn colors from November 18 to December 4, 2023)

Mount Shosha, home to the ancient Engyoji temple complex (YouTube link)

Click here for an interactive Himeji map on Google MyMaps

References

1. 12 Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Japan 2024 (video)
2. Himeji: Site of Japan’s most beautiful feudal castle
3. Kassui-ken Restaurant
• Reservations are accepted up to 3 days in advance, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., but may be limited during busy events. Late arrivals may face a wait. Cancel by phone at least one day prior to avoid a cancellation fee.
4. Souju-an Tea Ceremony House (Hours: 12 PM - 3:40 PM)
   
• The Souju-an Tea Ceremony House, designed by the esteemed Urasenke Grand Tea Master, reflects the simplicity and elegance of Edo Period samurai residences. Facing Himeji Castle, it offers a serene tea experience amidst traditional craftsmanship and a garden that harmonizes nature’s beauty with cultural refinement.
5. Himeji Castle official site
6. The 23 best shopping and stores in Himeji

Step Back in Time: A Nostalgic Journey to Matsuyama

Matsuyama (松山), the largest city on Shikoku and the capital of Ehime Prefecture, boasts Matsuyamajo, an original hilltop castle with views of the city and Seto Inland Sea. Featured in Natsume Soseki's novel "Botchan," the city gained fame throughout Japan. Dogo Onsen, also mentioned in the novel, is one of Japan's oldest hot spring resorts and a key attraction.

Click here for an interactive Matsuyama map on Google MyMaps

Things to Do

Here are some of the top things to do in Matsuyama:

Historical and Cultural Experiences:

• Matsuyama Castle: Explore this well-preserved castle, one of Japan's original 12 remaining castles.
• Dogo Onsen: Immerse yourself in the oldest hot spring public bathhouse in Japan, which inspired the movie "Spirited Away."
• Shiki Memorial Museum: Learn about the life and works of the renowned poet, Masaoka Shiki.
• Ishite-ji Temple: Temple No. 51 on the Shikoku pilgrimage. Discover this unique temple with its mysterious tunnel lined with statues.
• Botchan Karakuri Clock: Tourist attraction. The music began playing one minute before each hour, and the mechanism moved precisely on time.

Outdoor Activities:

• Matsuyama Castle Ropeway: Take a scenic ride up to the castle.
• Dogo Park: Relax in a beautiful park with gardens and ponds.
• Cycling: Explore the city and its surroundings by bike.

Local Cuisine:

• Dogo Beer: Try the locally brewed Dogo Beer.  One of the features of Dogo Beer is its stronger bubbles, as it is intended to be consumed after taking a meal at Dōgo Onsen.
• Mikan Juice or Beer: Enjoy fresh mandarin orange juice.
• Local Seafood: Savor the fresh seafood from the Seto Inland Sea.
• Botchan Dango (坊っちゃん団子): It has three colors. One is colored by red beans, the second by eggs, and the third by green tea. Botchan dango is a product name of Ehime’s miyagegashi, which was named after Natsume Sōseki’s novel Botchan.
• Tanimoto Kamabokoten  (谷本蒲鉾店): The most popular item at Tanimoto Kamabokoten is the Tachiuo Roll (太刀魚巻). Customers also highly recommend Matsuyama Tai Meshi, a delightful sea bream and rice dish.

By combining historical exploration, cultural experiences, and outdoor activities, you can create a memorable trip to Matsuyama.

愛媛県 松山市 道後温泉 本館 飛鳥乃湯泉 椿の湯 疲れたら愛媛 DOGO (YouTube link)

Dogo Park 道後公園 (YouTube link)

See Also:

1. National Historical Site Matsuyama Castle
2. Dōgo Onsen Annex Asuka-no-Yu 飛鳥乃湯泉
• Hours: 6 AM - 10 PM (max: 90 mins)
3. Matsuyama bus map (iyotetsu; pdf download)
1. Matsuyama Airport (4:45 PM) --- 松山空港リムジン ---> Dogo Onsen Sta.