Here are things you can do according to what interests you
Experience Local Heritage
-
Funaya of IneKyoto Amanohashidate -
Bicycle Hub AwajiHyogo Awaji Higashiura -
WarabeeLandGifu Mino -
CAZACLEMie Okuise Odai -
NishinoharaSaga Ureshino Onsen -
Kakinoha-zushi HirasoNara Tenri Yamanobenomichi -
Kawayu OnsenMie Kumano Kodo Mihama -
Mameda machiFukuoka Ukiha -
GREENable HIRUZENOkayama Hiruzen Highland -
Oku-no-Oku Tofu CuisineGifu Gujo -
Fairywood Glass MuseumOkayama Tsuyama -
Tonkori Kobo InonnoHokkaido Naganuma -
Fumi no Mori MotegiTochigi Motegi -
Shoji Hamada Memorial Mashiko Sankokan MuseumTochigi Motegi -
Nikko one stroke dragon -Takase-Tochigi Nikko -
Ichinoseyaki MarutagamaFukuoka Ukiha -
KunjudoHyogo Awaji Higashiura -
Sample Village IWASAKIGifu Gujo -
Five Waterwheels of ShokawaGifu Takayama Shirakawa Go -
Heshiko Factory HISAMIKyoto Kyotamba -
Chaya AmamakiTochigi Motegi
Funaya of Ine
Kyoto Amanohashidate
A BASE That Reminds You of Your Childhood, Somehow Nostalgic Even Though You Are Here for the First Time
The Ine Boathouses is a 30-minute drive from Amanohashidate, one of the three most scenic spots in Japan. The town is lined with boathouses that look as if they are floating on the sea. Take your time and stroll around town, or ride on a sightseeing boat to view the scenery from the sea. If you go to the Michi-no-Eki (roadside station), you can also see the boathouses from the top. See the daily lives of the fishermen and residents there, such as laundry, fishing boats, and fishing equipment.
Writer
tamaco
Enjoy the experience based on
Fairfield by Marriott Kyoto Amanohashidate
about the Hotel
Bicycle Hub Awaji
Hyogo Awaji Higashiura
A BASE That Will Make You Want to Take on the Challenge of "Awa-ichi" on Awaji Island, a Holy Place for Cyclists
Awa-ichi = Circumnavigation of Awaji Island. Bicycle Hub Awaji at Higashiura Michi-no-Eki (roadside station) has a wide variety of bikes for rent, from cross bikes to road bikes. The manager, Mr. Takahashi, will help you choose a bike according to your height and skill level, so even beginners can enjoy cycling with confidence. Feel the joy of biking by the ocean through towering palm trees that rise toward the blue sky!
Writer
yuko watanabe
Enjoy the experience based on
Fairfield by Marriott Hyogo Awaji Higashiura
about the Hotel
WarabeeLand
Gifu Mino
A BASE to Immerse Oneself in Washi, a Specialty of Mino
You can experience "Mino washi," one of the three major papers in Japan, in various forms, which will arouse your curiosity. In the paper-making experience, you can make your unique washi design with the craftsman, Mr. Senda. Interacting with staff members from various backgrounds is also an essential part of the experience.
Writer
Akira Onoue
Enjoy the experience based on
Fairfield by Marriott Gifu Mino
about the Hotel
CAZACLE
Mie Okuise Odai
A Bese to Savor True Luxury With Rare Matsusaka Beef and Freshly Picked Vegetables
As the lights in the surrounding houses began to glow, we arrived at this 300-year-old traditional Japanese house. It felt like slipping back in time as we enjoyed sukiyaki made with special Matsusaka beef, which accounts for only 4% of the beef in the market. The sweet fat of melt-in-your-mouth Matsusaka beef and the handpicked vegetables each have their own unique story. Savoring sukiyaki while listening to local folktales truly makes for a luxurious experience you won't have anywhere else.
Writer
Noe＊Nao
Enjoy the experience based on
Fairfield by Marriott Mie Okuise Odai
about the Hotel
Nishinohara
Saga Ureshino Onsen
A BASE to Touch the Sensibilities of Various Artists
Nishi no Hara, the birthplace of Hasami ware. In a building designated as a national tangible cultural property, cafes, restaurants, and general stores line up, and every shop is stylish and lovely. It’s also a plus that the facility is close and easy to get to from Ureshino Onsen, about a 15-minute drive across the prefecture.
Writer
yuuka0829
Enjoy the experience based on
Fairfield by Marriott Saga Ureshino Onsen
about the Hotel
Kakinoha-zushi Hiraso
Nara Tenri Yamanobenomichi
A BASE to Discover the Essence of Nara's History by Making Its Specialty, "Kakinoha-Zushi"
Immerse yourself in the art of making Nara's renowned delicacy, Kakinoha-zushi, a kind of sushi that is delicately wrapped in persimmon leaf. Choose salmon and mackerel and then wrap the sushi in a large persimmon leaf, paying attention to the underside and intricate veins of the leaf, and the size of the rice grains as you pack them snugly into a wooden box. It tastes even better when you discover the rich history behind this handcrafted delight.
Writer
horii miho
Enjoy the experience based on
Fairfield by Marriott Nara Tenri Yamanobenomichi
about the Hotel
Kawayu Onsen
Mie Kumano Kodo Mihama
A BASE to Soak Up to Your Shoulders in a Hot Spring River and Feel Like in a Dream
Located on a tributary of the Kumano River, this is a rare hot spring in Japan where you can dig your own open-air bath on the riverbank. Enjoy playing in the river in summer, and in the winter, the entire river becomes a hot spring, making the "Sennin-buro River Bath!" It's a dreamy place where you can relax body and soul.
Writer
Naoyuki Kubo
Enjoy the experience based on
Fairfield by Marriott Mie Kumano Kodo Mihama
about the Hotel
Mameda machi
Fukuoka Ukiha
A BASE Where You Can Immerse Yourself in the Allure of History Within a Nostalgic Townscape
Mameda town still retains its old streetscape dating back to the Edo period. Marvel at the rows of well-preserved merchant houses and warehouses that transport you to a bygone era you never knew existed. Don't miss the chance to experience the famous Hita geta (wooden clogs) and consider strolling through town, perhaps clad in a traditional kimono and geta, and enjoying a leisurely afternoon in a café.
Writer
aki
Enjoy the experience based on
Fairfield by Marriott Fukuoka Ukiha
about the Hotel
GREENable HIRUZEN
Okayama Hiruzen Highland
A BASE to Feel the Breeze and the Trees Through the Architecture
In addition to "Kaze no Ha" pavilion, designed and supervised by architect Kengo Kuma, the facility's museum features various exhibitions. The shop sells sustainable products made of recycled and natural materials as well as traditional crafts under the concept of "GREENable." It is a place to experience culture and art in harmony with nature, and feel rejuvenated.
Writer
@r_films_japan
Enjoy the experience based on
Fairfield by Marriott Okayama Hiruzen Highland
about the Hotel
Oku-no-Oku Tofu Cuisine
Gifu Gujo
The Versatile World of Tofu - A BASE to Feed Your Body and Soul
Oku-no-Oku is located on the upper reaches of Kurusu-gawa River that flows into Nagara-gawa River. As I got closer to the restaurant and heard the sound of the river, I seemed to forget the hectic pace of everyday life. There are handmade tofu dishes and fresh yuba (tofu skin) that you scoop up yourself. I relaxed by the warm sunken hearth and felt my body and soul fulfilled.
Writer
MIKI
Enjoy the experience based on
Fairfield by Marriott Gifu Gujo
about the Hotel
Fairywood Glass Museum
Okayama Tsuyama
A BASE Where You Can See, Make and Learn About Uranium Glass
The mysterious uranium glass glows a pale green when exposed to ultraviolet light. The fantastical atmosphere drew me in. They actually have workshops where you can make glass using uranium, so I joined one. I was able to make my own glassware with ease thanks to the attentive and supportive staff. Try making glass yourself and for sure, you'll become attached to that glass.
Writer
Akira Onoue
Enjoy the experience based on
Fairfield by Marriott Okayama Tsuyama
about the Hotel
Tonkori Kobo Inonno
Hokkaido Naganuma
A BASE to Feel Comfortable With the Sound of Ainu Culture
A workshop that handcrafts each tonkori, a Karafuto Ainu ethnic string instrument. While the instrument is known only to a few in Hokkaido, orders come from all over Japan, and production is currently a year’s wait. The sound of the tonkori played by the owner, who is also active as a performer, is beautiful and delicate and has made me aware of the new charm of Ainu culture.
Writer
kenji & Akari
Enjoy the experience based on
Fairfield by Marriott Hokkaido Naganuma
about the Hotel
Fumi no Mori Motegi
Tochigi Motegi
A BASE Where You Can Reflect on Yourself While Being Surrounded by Books
The library was built using trees from the town. Its wooden arches in the ceiling are a unique architectural feature developed for this very building. Anyone can borrow books, and some of the library's visitors come from outside the prefecture. When you see the names attached to the bookshelves, you will surely be curious and excited at the same time. There is also a gallery in a renovated sake brewery attached to the building, further enhancing its castle town ambiance.
Writer
yamako mom
Enjoy the experience based on
Fairfield by Marriott Tochigi Motegi
about the Hotel
Shoji Hamada Memorial Mashiko Sankokan Museum
Tochigi Motegi
A BASE Where You Can Feel the Spirit of the Ceramic Artist Who Loved Mashiko
Built by relocating old private houses and stone warehouses, ceramic artist Shoji Hamada’s memorial museum is a place where you can experience his world view, born of a healthy rural lifestyle. The building, which showcases his collection of craftwork and furniture from around the world, used to also serve as a guesthouse. I enjoyed a peaceful and relaxing moment at this spacious old house with an air of openness in a natural setting.
Writer
yamako mom
Enjoy the experience based on
Fairfield by Marriott Tochigi Motegi
about the Hotel
Nikko one stroke dragon -Takase-
Tochigi Nikko
A BASE to Get Encouraged by a Unique Dragon Painting
Founded in 1954 on the Omotesando of Nikko Toshogu Shrine, the one-stroke dragon painting has been passed down for 70 years. Limiting not only to Japanese ink painting, the third-generation artist Fumiko Takase developed the technique of colorful ink painting. It's a breathtaking sight watching her paint the dragon's body in one stroke. Gold dust is blown to add the finishing touch, bringing the dragon to life, which is truly magnificent. The paintings are available for purchase, starting from a small card-size painting, to serve as a constant source of motivation at any time.
Writer
yuko watanabe
Enjoy the experience based on
Fairfield by Marriott Tochigi Nikko
about the Hotel
Ichinoseyaki Marutagama
Fukuoka Ukiha
A BASE Where You Will Lose Track of Time as You Stand Riveted by the Delicate Craftsmanship
There are various types of ichinose-yaki, and it is said that at Marutagama, instead of glaze, they use salt glaze as a distinctive feature of their pottery. The intricate and stunning blue patterns are mesmerizing. I realized how truly beautiful pottery can be. Each individual piece is truly a work of art!
Writer
aki
Enjoy the experience based on
Fairfield by Marriott Fukuoka Ukiha
about the Hotel
Kunjudo
Hyogo Awaji Higashiura
A BASE Where You Can Bring Home Your Favorite Fragrance Just for You
Awaji Island is the birthplace of Japanese incense and boasts the highest production in Japan. The handmade incense experience begins with selecting the color and fragrance. After selecting the fragrance and kneading the incense ingredients, I got engrossed in molding it into my favorite shape. The incense will be done after I take it home and let it dry. It will fill my room with a pleasant aroma.
Writer
mai_tabi
Enjoy the experience based on
Fairfield by Marriott Hyogo Awaji Higashiura
about the Hotel
Sample Village IWASAKI
Gifu Gujo
A BASE to be Inspired Like a Child
"I had no idea you could do that with wax!"—the sample-making experience is full of surprises. Dripping it carefully, spreading it thin, mixing the colors...feel the excitement of wondering what you can make as if you're back as a kid again. Food samples are a unique part of Japanese culture and I was amazed to hear it has a history of over 80 years.
Writer
MIKI
Enjoy the experience based on
Fairfield by Marriott Gifu Gujo
about the Hotel
Five Waterwheels of Shokawa
Gifu Takayama Shirakawa Go
A BASE to Go to Discover Amazing Structures Including Japan's Largest Waterwheel
You can see the Five Waterwheels, the largest ones in Japan, and a huge stone mill from a large parking lot of the soba-noodle restaurant, Sobanosato Shokawa Shinuchitei. The diameter of the largest waterwheel is 13 meters! They are far larger than I imagined looking from afar, and it was even more overwhelming up close!
Writer
mikimisaki
Enjoy the experience based on
Fairfield by Marriott Gifu Takayama Shirakawa Go
about the Hotel
Heshiko Factory HISAMI
Kyoto Kyotamba
A BASE to Enjoy the Local Flavor in a New Way and Spend a Fine Time
"Heshiko" is a preserved food that is the specialty of the Kyotango region, made by salting mackerel and then pickling it in rice bran for a long time. While heshiko can be incredibly salty when eaten as is, the staff's top recommendation is to enjoy it with plain rice or as ochazuke (rice with tea), which I savored with delight. I enjoyed sipping sake and nibbling on modern heshiko chips while gazing at the night sky from the hotel window.
Writer
Mayumi
Enjoy the experience based on
Fairfield by Marriott Kyoto Kyotamba
about the Hotel
Chaya Amamaki
Tochigi Motegi
A BASE Where You Can Savor Delicious Pizza in the Middle of the Forest
This café is nestled in a forest at the entrance to the Amamaki Mountain trail. The pizza here is known for the delightfully chewy texture of its crust thanks to the carefully selected ingredients used and the pizza oven made with mosaic pieces of Mashiko pottery damaged in the earthquake. Many people stop by and dine here on their way home from hiking the mountain. Works of local artists are also showcased inside the café, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere.
Writer
yamako mom
Enjoy the experience based on
Fairfield by Marriott Tochigi Motegi
about the Hotel
EXPLORE
Continue exploring according to your interests
Notice how you are feeling right now and just go with whatever catches your eye.
One of the joys of traveling is finding new things of interest!
One of the joys of traveling is finding new things of interest!