Here are things you can do according to what interests you
Explore History and Folktales
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Kotohira-jinja Shrine / Kijima-jinja ShrineKyoto Amanohashidate -
Funaya of IneKyoto Amanohashidate -
WarabeeLandGifu Mino -
Kanmangafuchi AbyssTochigi Nikko -
Ukiha-inari ShrineFukuoka Ukiha -
Fuden-Toge Pass and Yokogaki-Toge PassMie Kumano Kodo Mihama -
Kumano Sanzan Kumano Hongu TaisyaMie Kumano Kodo Mihama -
SogisuiGifu Gujo -
Shimo-imaichi StationTochigi Nikko -
Ikutora StationHokkaido Minamifurano -
Lake MiboroGifu Takayama Shirakawa Go -
Arimura Lava ObservatoryKagoshima Sakurajima -
Setsugetsufuka FukuchiinHiroshima Sera -
ImakoyasanHiroshima Sera -
Mameda machiFukuoka Ukiha -
Nakabashi BridgeGifu Takayama Shirakawa Go -
Gujo Hachiman CastleGifu Gujo -
Tonkori Kobo InonnoHokkaido Naganuma -
Hida Beef Sukiyaki Nakabashi WakachiyaGifu Takayama Shirakawa Go -
Nagaragawa RailwayGifu Seiryu Satoyama Park -
Takiharanomiya ShrineMie Okuise Odai -
Nakayama-jinja ShrineOkayama Tsuyama -
Chogakuji TempleNara Tenri Yamanobenomichi -
Shoji Hamada Memorial Mashiko Sankokan MuseumTochigi Motegi -
Tamba WineKyoto Kyotamba -
C’est la Saison!Wakayama Kushimoto -
Gujo-Hachiman HakurankanGifu Gujo -
Kurozuka KofunNara Tenri Yamanobenomichi -
Kozuchi River Port / Kawaminato LighthouseGifu Mino -
Shitsumi ShogakkoKyoto Kyotamba -
Shiroyama ParkTochigi Motegi -
Five Waterwheels of ShokawaGifu Takayama Shirakawa Go -
Nihon Doyo-no-Sono Park（Nihon Doyo-no-sono Koen）Wakayama Kumano Kodo Susami -
OlivaSiculaOkayama Hiruzen Highland
Kotohira-jinja Shrine / Kijima-jinja Shrine
Kyoto Amanohashidate
A BASE Where Cat Lovers Want to Visit at Least Once to Truly Appreciate Cats
It is said that Kotohira Shrine is the only shrine in Japan that has guardian cats instead of guardian dogs. It is popularly known as "Kompira-san" among the local people. There are many illustrations and figurines of cats in the precincts of the shrine, so have fun walking around looking for your favorite ones. Unfortunately, we could not see any real cats.
Writer
tamaco
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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
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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
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Fairfield by Marriott Gifu Mino
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Kanmangafuchi Abyss
Tochigi Nikko
A Different Number of Expressive Statues on the Way There and Back? A BASE to Pray to Expressive Jizō Statues
Formed by lava erupted from Mount Nantai, a picturesque place where the clear stream of Daiyagawa River and mossy greenery create a natural beauty. Passing through the hall of Jiunji Temple, you will be greeted by Jizō statues lined up in a quiet forest. The number of statues is said to change on your way there and back, earning them the name "Bake Jizō (Ghost Jizō)." The rich nature and expressive Jizō statues purified me spiritually and calmed me.
Writer
yuko watanabe
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Fairfield by Marriott Tochigi Nikko
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Ukiha-inari Shrine
Fukuoka Ukiha
A BASE to Reset Your Mind at a Revered Power Spot With Stunning Vistas
The sight of 92 torii gates lined up along the approach to the hilltop is truly awe-inspiring, and it fills your heart with serenity. As you ascend the approximately 300 steps, the harmonious fusion of crimson torii gates and the picturesque Ukiha landscape unfolds before your eyes in a spectacle of breathtaking beauty. The shrine is all lit up at night, too, so don't miss it!
Writer
aki
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Fairfield by Marriott Fukuoka Ukiha
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Fuden-Toge Pass and Yokogaki-Toge Pass
Mie Kumano Kodo Mihama
A BASE to Deeply Relax on a Mountain Path With a Sense of History
The Kumano Kodo is one of the few World Heritage roads. The moss-covered mountain path feels like it has endured a long history. At the foot of the Fuden-Toge Pass, massive early morning fog envelops the mountain from autumn to spring, creating a breathtaking scene. It's a place where you can feel the long history of nature and people, and your soul can deeply relax.
Writer
Naoyuki Kubo
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Fairfield by Marriott Mie Kumano Kodo Mihama
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Kumano Sanzan Kumano Hongu Taisya
Mie Kumano Kodo Mihama
A BASE to Bathe in the Majestic Air Continuing Since Ancient Times
Located deep in the mountains stands the Kumano Hongu Taisha Shrine. Kumano is a sacred place with a long history of strong faith since ancient times, with the saying, "Go to Ise seven times, go to Kumano three times." As soon as you enter the grounds here, the sacred air feels otherworldly. You will surely feel overwhelmed by the inner shrine's cypress bark-roofed buildings all lined up!
Writer
Naoyuki Kubo
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Fairfield by Marriott Mie Kumano Kodo Mihama
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Sogisui
Gifu Gujo
A BASE to Soothe Your Soul with the Clear Water
This natural spring water has always supported the lives of local people since the old days. It is no longer used for daily water supply. However, it has become an iconic town site, and its name is used as such in the Sogi sui Jinsai Festival of the Gujo Odori Festival! The sight of the atmospheric cityscape unfolding around the flow of crystal-clear water is refreshing to the mind.
Writer
MIKI
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Fairfield by Marriott Gifu Gujo
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Shimo-imaichi Station
Tochigi Nikko
A BASE Where You Can Experience the Excitement of Steam Locomotives, as if You've Traveled Back in Time
The powerful steam locomotive SL Taiju slid into the platform with steam billowing from its big whistle as it blew. Running between Shimoimaichi and Kinugawa, the train was an impressive sight to behold. It definitely dazzled not just the ticket holders waiting to board, but also those who just came to catch a glimpse of the train that day. Being in that retro station building and charming waiting lounge with design reminiscent of the Showa era made for a truly unforgettable experience.
Writer
myu_travelplan
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Fairfield by Marriott Tochigi Nikko
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Ikutora Station
Hokkaido Minamifurano
A BASE Where You Can Feel Like You've Entered the World of Showa Movies
Ikutora Station is famous as the filming location of a movie and an album cover. Everyone in the town is proud of this place, which is no longer used as a station but remains a tourist attraction. This is the only place that reminds me of the atmosphere of the Showa period, and I feel as if I have traveled back in time.
Writer
yuuka0829
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Fairfield by Marriott Hokkaido Minamifurano
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Lake Miboro
Gifu Takayama Shirakawa Go
A BASE for Meditation With Magnificent Sceneries and Fresh Air
When traveling from Shokawa Town to Shirakawa Go on a nice day, it's best to take local roads rather than the expressway. The drive along the shore of Lake Miboro, surrounded by mountains, is exceptional. It also takes you by the Shokawa Zakura Cherry Trees, a Gifu Prefecture designated natural monument. The trees were successfully transplanted, which was previously thought to be impossible, and are now called the "Miracle Cherry Trees." The scenery that includes 500-year-old cherry trees, the mountains, and the lake is spectacular.
Writer
mikimisaki
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Fairfield by Marriott Gifu Takayama Shirakawa Go
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Arimura Lava Observatory
Kagoshima Sakurajima
A BASE Where You Can Get Vitality from an Active Volcano
The Arimura Lava Observatory is located near Minamidake, an active volcano. The volcanic fumes rising from the volcano are very powerful! The lava field and Japanese black pines spreading all over the area gave me a sense of the volcano's wild history and the power of nature. Walking along the 1-km-long promenade, you can enjoy a 360-degree panoramic view of Sakurajima and Kinko Bay.
Writer
Ryotaro Takeshima
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Setsugetsufuka Fukuchiin
Hiroshima Sera
A BASE Where You Can Relax in an Atmosphere That Feels Like You Have Traveled Back in Time to the Edo Period
A former temple lodging built in the Edo period that has been renovated into a Japanese tea café. Here, you can enjoy teas and sweets incorporating local Sera ingredients, while marveling at the building's ambiance and surroundings. It's a quiet place where you can unwind in a serene environment that will stimulate all five senses.
Writer
Naoyuki Kubo
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Imakoyasan
Hiroshima Sera
A BASE Where You Can Soak in the Beauty of Every Season
Imakoyasan is a historic site designated by Hiroshima Prefecture. With its landscape painted in vibrant colors every season, such as cherry blossoms in spring, fresh verdure in summer, and autumn leaves, Imakoyasan (Ryuge-ji Temple) is the spot for you if you want to witness and feel the changing of the seasons. You can ring the bell at this temple yourself, so definitely give it a try. When I rang the bell, the sound it made was unexpectedly beautiful, making me feel as if my heart was being cleansed.
Writer
Naoyuki Kubo
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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
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Fairfield by Marriott Fukuoka Ukiha
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Nakabashi Bridge
Gifu Takayama Shirakawa Go
A BASE to be Healed by the Retro Nostalgic Streetscape
In Takayama, where visitors enjoy strolling through the old streets, the vermilion red of Nakabashi Bridge stands out. It is nice to cross the bridge, but there are also stairs leading to the riverbank a little south of it, leading to a lovely spot to take photos of the weeping willow that is a protected tree of Takayama City, and of Nakabashi Bridge and the stone paved path! The carp swimming in the river increases the charm.
Writer
mikimisaki
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Fairfield by Marriott Gifu Takayama Shirakawa Go
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Gujo Hachiman Castle
Gifu Gujo
Between the Sky and Nature - A BASE With a Sense of Dignity and History
Also known as "the most beautiful mountain castle in Japan," this imposing structure stands guard over the castle town of Gujo Hachiman. Even on the way to the castle, there is a sense of the sacred. With the mountains stretching as far as the eye can see and the castle rising silently, there is a sense of dignity and respect that is inspiring.
Writer
MIKI
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Fairfield by Marriott Gifu Gujo
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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
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Fairfield by Marriott Hokkaido Naganuma
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Hida Beef Sukiyaki Nakabashi Wakachiya
Gifu Takayama Shirakawa Go
Enjoy the Taste of Hida! A BASE to Fill Both Your Heart and Stomach
Don't miss Hida beef if you are visiting Hida Takayama. This is a lovely restaurant to enjoy sukiyaki with views of the iconic Nakabashi Bridge and the river! Enjoy Hida cuisine prepared with local produce such as Momiji Egg from Yamada Egg and Hida Koshihikari rice. The sukiyaki beef is large and filling. Part of the fun is to prepare the sukiyaki yourself following detailed instructions!
Writer
mikimisaki
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Fairfield by Marriott Gifu Takayama Shirakawa Go
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Nagaragawa Railway
Gifu Seiryu Satoyama Park
A BASE to Enjoy a Relaxing Train Ride Like the Locals
The Nagaragawa Railway is a cute red local train. On the day of the visit, the train was wrapped in decorations of creatures living in the Nagara River, with illustrations of numerous fish inside the train! It was a relaxing, slow train ride listening to the comforting voice of the conductor and taking in the atmosphere together with local passengers. There were other passengers from overseas to enjoy taking pictures with.
Writer
pisaki
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Fairfield by Marriott Gifu Seiryu Satoyama Park
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Takiharanomiya Shrine
Mie Okuise Odai
A BASE Where You Can Go Deep into the Woods and Purify Yourself
Walking along the path to the shrine through a majestic grove of trees said to be several hundred years old led us to Takiharanomiya Shrine, a subordinate shrine of the Inner Shrine of Ise Jingu, which is also known as Motoise. We first purified ourselves in the clear river that is also used for handwashing. Then, we entered the shrine grounds where a divine atmosphere pervades, all while accompanied by the murmurs of the river. As I basked in the beautiful sunlight filtering through the trees, a profound sense of purity and peace enveloped me.
Writer
Noe＊Nao
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Fairfield by Marriott Mie Okuise Odai
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Nakayama-jinja Shrine
Okayama Tsuyama
A BASE Where You Can Reexamine Yourself and Feel Your Burden Being Lifted
The main shrine, designated as a national important cultural property, exudes a distinct kind of beauty coming from well-aged wood that sets it apart from other shrines. If you look at the main shrine from the side, and not just the front, you'll surely be surprised by its size. I was enveloped in a state of calm in the quiet and solemn grounds.
Writer
Akira Onoue
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Chogakuji Temple
Nara Tenri Yamanobenomichi
A BASE to Refresh Your Mind With Nature's Symphony of Blossoms and Bird Songs
"In these challenging times, a temple serves as a sanctuary to refresh the mind. I hope it provides a moment of relaxation, where you can admire the flowers and listen to the birds singing." The teaching imparted by the temple's chief priest adds profound depth to your visit, making every moment within the temple grounds truly memorable. Amidst the enchanting tableau of flowers, birdsong, and dappled sunlight filtering through the foliage, you are enveloped by a sense of unparalleled beauty.
Writer
horii miho
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Fairfield by Marriott Nara Tenri Yamanobenomichi
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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
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Fairfield by Marriott Tochigi Motegi
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Tamba Wine
Kyoto Kyotamba
A BASE to Find Wines That Pair Well With Kyoto's Cuisine and Japanese Food, Bringing You Closer to Happiness
Tamba Wine was born from a passionate desire to create wines that complement Kyoto's culinary culture. It was a luxurious moment to taste the exquisite wines, imbued with the passion and soul of the winemakers, under the clear blue sky during a winery tour. It was A BASE where even wine beginners could immerse themselves in a feeling of happiness.
Writer
Mayumi
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C’est la Saison!
Wakayama Kushimoto
A BASE to Make Your Childhood Dreams Come True
This cake shop is located in Yoshun Elementary School, which closed in 2011. The playground equipment and cherry blossom trees in the schoolyard made me feel as if I traveled back in time to elementary school. As I opened a classroom door, I was greeted with the sight of numerous cakes with a wide variety of seasonal fruit! I couldn't help but smile when tasting the wonderful flavors.
Writer
ayana kato
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Fairfield by Marriott Wakayama Kushimoto
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Gujo-Hachiman Hakurankan
Gifu Gujo
A BASE to Experience the Vibrant Culture of Japan and Rejuvenate Yourself
Gujo Odori is one of Japan's three major folk dances and is also famous for "Tetsuya Odori" that lasts the whole night. You'll enjoy demonstrations of Gujo Odori and exhibitions of traditional Gujo crafts. Why not master the dance here and join in Gujo Odori Festival this summer?
Writer
MIKI
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Fairfield by Marriott Gifu Gujo
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Kurozuka Kofun
Nara Tenri Yamanobenomichi
A BASE to Unwind Amidst Ancient History
The lush greenery and ancient burial mounds have transformed this park into a haven for locals to relax. Simply sitting on one of the benches here made me feel like I was soaking in the essence of Nara's rich history. Venture to the museum on the park's eastern side and explore reconstructed stone chambers, ironware, mirrors, and more.
Writer
horii miho
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Fairfield by Marriott Nara Tenri Yamanobenomichi
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Kozuchi River Port / Kawaminato Lighthouse
Gifu Mino
A BASE to Relax and Think about the History of the Nagara River
Mino once prospered as a gateway for the transportation of goods. The Kawaminato Lighthouse is a symbol of its prosperity. Sitting at the foot of the lighthouse and looking out over the Nagara River, which flows as it did in the past and still does today, I felt myself heal from the fatigue of daily life. At sunset, I felt as if I had stepped back in time to the Edo period.
Writer
Akira Onoue
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Fairfield by Marriott Gifu Mino
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Shitsumi Shogakko
Kyoto Kyotamba
A BASE Where You Can Encounter Your Nostalgic Past Self
The old wooden school building of the former Shitsumi Elementary School is filled with memories and has a nostalgic Showa-era charm. The scenery somehow links to my own memories, making me remember my past self. Savoring the handmade pizza in the former science room and surrounded by countless picture books that captivate children, I felt as if I had encountered my long-forgotten past self.
Writer
Mayumi
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Fairfield by Marriott Kyoto Kyotamba
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Shiroyama Park
Tochigi Motegi
A BASE Where You Can Enjoy a Picnic on a Hilltop
Perched on top of a hill, Shiroyama Park offers a breathtaking view of Motegi Town. Its lawn is maintained so well that I brought snacks and went on a picnic here. Sneakers are recommended, though, as it feels a bit like hiking in the mountains. Enjoy the view of the town while imagining the lord of the castle during the Kamakura period.
Writer
yamako mom
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Fairfield by Marriott Tochigi Motegi
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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
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Fairfield by Marriott Gifu Takayama Shirakawa Go
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Nihon Doyo-no-Sono Park（Nihon Doyo-no-sono Koen）
Wakayama Kumano Kodo Susami
A BASE to Feel Nostalgic and Remember Childhood in Nature
As you walk through the park overlooking the Pacific Ocean, you will hear nostalgic children's songs that you can't stop singing along to. Further along, you can find stairs leading to Esuzaki Island visible from the hotel. A straight path leads to the island after the stairs. The whole island is considered a sacred area, making you feel like something good might happen.
Writer
NAO
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Fairfield by Marriott Wakayama Kumano Kodo Susami
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OlivaSicula
Okayama Hiruzen Highland
A BASE to Immerse Yourself in Sicilian Culture
This store sells olive oil produced in Sicily that the owner, a former chef, is particularly fond of. The owner says that many households in Japan use olive oil on a daily basis, which is rare even from a global perspective. Here, you can taste the oils and consult with the owner to find the bottle that is just right for you.
Writer
@r_films_japan
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Fairfield by Marriott Okayama Hiruzen Highland
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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!