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7 Amazing Things to Do in Wakayama, Japan (Temples, Castles & Hidden Gems)

Marc B — Thu, 14 Aug 2025 23:52:08 +0000

7 Amazing Things to Do in Wakayama, Japan (Temples, Castles & Hidden Gems)

Looking for the best things to do in Wakayama, Japan? From spiritual temples and ancient castles to white-sand beaches and off-the-beaten-path adventures, Wakayama Prefecture is a must-visit destination in Japan’s Kansai region.

Wakayama Prefecture is a historical and spiritual centre of Japan. Located on the Kii Peninsula, south of Osaka in the Kansai region, Wakayama plays host to some of the most scenic spots in Japan, including the well-known Kumano Kodo pilgrimage route the holy mountain Koyasan, and many other attractions. As well as the world-famous Wakayama Castle, Wakayama also hosts Mount Koya or Koyasan, one of Japan’s most sacred and most beautiful places – one place that definitely needs to be on your bucket list. It is said that Wakayama is Japan’s spiritual heartland because of the area’s numerous, well-known religious sites and the extensive network of hiking trails that lead to the Kumano Kodo pilgrimage site. Shirahama beach, onsen resorts, beautiful natural scenery, and inhabited islands are just some of the other popular destinations in the prefecture. Listed below are some of the best attractions in Wakayama Prefecture that I can 100% vouch for!

1. Wakayama Castle (和歌山城)

Wakayama Castle was built in 1585, opened to the public in 1867, destroyed during World War II and rebuilt in 1958. It is a symbol of Wakayama city and was designated as a national treasure in 1935. Still need more convincing?

The castle sits at the mouth of the Kii River in Wakayama City and makes a perfect place to visit if you’re staying in the city. While the original structure was built in 1585, much of the current infrastructure was reconstructed in 1958 after World War II. Only the Okaguchi Gate and the stone walls of the original castle are left. There is still an original moat and stone wall around Wakayama Castle, which overlooks the city from its perch. As one of the best castles in Japan, it is especially beautiful in the spring, when the cherry trees are at their peak of bloom. Matcha green tea can be found in a teahouse in the nearby Momijidani Japanese Garden, which is especially lovely in the autumn.

It is also possible to visit the castle museum, which is located inside the castle’s main building and contains a collection of historical artefacts. You can also visit the Wakayama Museum of Modern Art in the castle grounds, which houses an impressive collection of Japanese and Western contemporary art. Nishi-no-Maru Garden, built in the 17th century, features a pond as well as a waterfall.

Wakayama Castle opens from 9 a.m. to 5.30 p.m. and has a ¥410 yen entry fee.

Some of Wakayama’s best seafood and Wakayama-themed souvenirs can be found in the Kuroshio neighbourhood near the castle. If you’re a fan of hot springs, the Kishu Kuroshio Onsen is a great place to relax and unwind after a long day of sightseeing.

You can find out more information on Wakayama Castle here.

2. Kimiidera Temple (紀三井寺)

A major tourist attraction during cherry blossom season, Kimiidera Temple is a popular place to visit especially in spring. It was built in 770 and has a striking red facade that stands out against the surrounding green mountains. Kimiidera Temple is a striking example of Buddhist architecture and is the most revered temple in Wakayama, even said to have been visited by emperors.

The early blooming cherry blossoms at this temple are well-known hence it’s a popular place to go in early spring. This temple is close to Wakayama city, only a couple of stops away from Wakayama station. Take the Kisei Line to Kimiidera station, with the temple only a short walk away.

3. Wakayama Dentetsu

Do you know a cat that has a better job than you? Well Tama is the super-station master along the Wakayama Dentetsu’s Kishigawa Line. When you board the train you’re’ greeted by this furry station master, and she even has her own themed café!

From Wakayama Station to Kishi Station, the Wakayama Electric Railway serves as a branch line and is known for its Station Master cats. On certain days of the week, visitors are able to peer into the enclosures of the current feline residents. There are four different themed trains that run on a rotating basis. There are several sites to see along the route, despite the fact that the train line passes through rural territory. Whether you’re a cat lover or a train enthusiast, the Wakayama Electric Railway is an excellent way to get away from the city’s hustle and bustle.

You can find out more info from the official website here.

4. Tomogashima Island (友ヶ島)

Like exploring abandoned places, then make sure you visit Tomogashima! An abandoned military fort complete with batteries, ruins, a lighthouse and stunning scenery. It also resembles the Studio Ghibli movie ‘Castle in the sky’.

Tomogashima is a lot less well-known, and even many native Japanese people aren’t aware of this great day trip not far from Osaka Kyoto’s bustling cities. We were tipped off by a friend of a friend, and were so glad to find and explore this hidden gem. In this area, you won’t find many tourists, but you’ll find a few locals and older Japanese people who like to go hiking or water-colouring, or independent travellers (like me!). The island you’ll be visiting is actually known as Okinoshima Island. It’s an abandoned military base, with fortresses and battery sites built by the Japanese Army in the 1890s to protect Osaka Bay during the Meiji period (1868-1912).

5. Nachi Waterfall / Daimon-zaka / Kumano Nachi Taisha

In Japan, one of the most well-known waterfalls is the Nachi Waterfall. The highest waterfall cascade in Japan, Hirou Gongen, is revered as a Shinto deity because of its 133-meter height – the country’s tallest single uninterrupted waterfall.
The Shinto shrine at Nachi Falls, Kumano Nachi Taisha, is part of the UNESCO World Heritage Sacred Sites and Pilgrimage Routes in Japan’s Kii Mountain Range, along with the nearby Buddhist temple Nachisan Seiganto-ji Tenda. Japan’s harmonious mix of Shintoism and Buddhism is exemplified by the close proximity of both shrines and temples to the enormous waterfall.
One of the most iconic, scenic and photographed spots in Japan is the three-story vermilion pagoda Daimon-zaka with the falls directly behind.
Walking to Nachi waterfall you pass through Japanese cedars, camphors, and bamboo, creating a serene surreal environment.

6. Kumano Kodo Pilgrimage Trails (熊野古道)

There is a network of pilgrimage trails in the southern Kansai region known as Kumano Kodo. For over a thousand years, the Kodo (“old ways”) have been an important part of the region’s UNESCO designation. They are one of two in the world pilgrimage routes to be designated a world heritage site.
The pilgrimage routes on the Kii Peninsula grew out of the need for people to travel between sacred sites. It is said that Kumano Sanzan is made up of three shrines, Hongu Taisha, Hayatama Taisha and Nachi Taisha, located in the heart of this religious area.
There are four main routes that run through Kyoto, Koyasan (the headquarters of Shingon Buddhism – see below), Yoshino & Omine (mountain-worship centres), and Ise Japan’s holiest shrine): the Kodo pilgrimage trails.
Coastal trails have largely been obliterated by development, but there are still a few mountain trails and passes. Stopping at one of the main temples or anywhere along the pilgrimage trails is definitely worth it.

7. Mt Koya / Koyasan (高野山)

Kukai the monk, later known as Kobo Daishi, built a large monastery complex known as Mount Koya in 819 which became the heart of Shingon Buddhism. At the centre of Koyasan is Okunoin Temple, home Kukai’s mauseoleum. Large cedar forests surround Okunoin (奥の院), which is home to a cemetery with the mausoleums of many famous Japanese people, including Toyotomi Hideyoshi, who was the samurai ruler of Japan at the time. Okunoin is one Japan’s most sacred places and a popular pilgrimage destination, and it marked the culmination of an incredible adventure along the Kumano Kodo pilgrimage.

The total area of Koyasan is relatively large and it was home to more than 2,000 temples during the Edo period (1603-1868), but only 117 of them remain today. About half of the mountain’s temples now serve as shukubo lodgings, where guests can spend the night, dine on vegetarian fare prepared by monks, and participate in morning prayers. This has to be one of the top 3 experiences you can do in Japan. As part of staying at a buddhist temple, you get to go on a midnight tour through the cemetery which is incredible.

In 2004, the UNESCO listed Mount Koya and its associated sites as a World Heritage Site. For more information or the different temple lodgings, visit here.

Bonus Spot: Shirahama (白浜町)

Living in Osaka, I definitely missed the beach in summer so spent quite a few summer days exploring the best beaches in Osaka and Kansai – one of which is Shirahama.

According to local legend, the beach’s white sand was imported from Australia, hence the name “white beach,” which translates to “sparkling beach” in Japanese. It’s Kansai’s prettiest beach, if not the prettiest in Japan. The 600-meter-long curved beach is home to a number of hotels with direct access to the ocean.

Shirahama is also known as a hot springs resort because of its well-developed infrastructure. Wakayama’s coastline features more than 600 kilometres of beaches, many of which have fine, white sand yet Shirahama still remains a favourite for Japanese residents and tourists alike. The swimming season is at its busiest in the months of July and August, and accommodation prices understandably increase during these times.

Conclusion: Why Wakayama Belongs on Your Japan Itinerary

Wakayama is a magical blend of spiritual heritage, breathtaking nature, and coastal charm—offering something for every kind of traveller. Whether you’re hiking ancient pilgrimage trails, soaking in Shirahama’s hot springs, or discovering hidden islands like Tomogashima, each experience adds a new layer to your Japan journey. Easy to access from Osaka or Kyoto, Wakayama is the perfect side trip or standalone destination that delivers history, serenity, and unforgettable views. Add it to your travel list—you won’t regret it.

10 Most Instagrammable Places in Hokkaido

Marc B — Tue, 20 Jun 2023 10:57:49 +0000

10 Instagrammable Places in Hokkaido, Japan

Hokkaido (北海道 ) is one of the most popular places in Japan to visit for tourists, especially those interested in winter sports and onsen, but it also happens to be one prefecture that has an incredible array of natural landmarks and attractions that are sure to make anyone envious with wanderlust. Below you’ll find the roundup of the most Instagrammable places in Hokkaido that are a definite must see if you’re heading to the second largest island of Japan.

For more adventures in mainland Japan, make sure to check out some of the amazing experiences that are worthy of any bucket list!

Without further ado…

Shirogane Blue Pond

青い池

20 minutes by car from JR Biei Station or a two- and half-hour drive from Sapporo will get you to one of the most famous and beautiful views of Hokkaido; the Shirogane Blue Pond, more simply known as the Blue Pond and takes the #1 spot for the most Instagrammable places in Hokkaido..

Also known as Aoiike in Japanese, this picturesque place is actually man-made as a by-product of dam construction following the eruption of Mount Tokachi in 1988. The unbelievable blue colour is due to minerals in the lake – which means you can’t swim in it – but you can still enjoy incredible views across all four seasons – the most famous, winter and autumn. And best of all, it’s free!

biei-hokkaido.jp
Shirogane, 美瑛町 Biei, Kamikawa District, Hokkaido 071-0235, Japan

Takino Reien

頭大仏殿（Hill of the Buddha）

World famous architect Tadao Ando asked himself “How does a statue become a more solemn, attractive figure?” and his answer was the creation of Hill of the Buddha; the symbol of Makomanai Takino Cemetery where the giant Buddha statue is surrounded by a hill of lavender with just the head poking out.

Although stunning in all seasons, the Buddha surrounded by lavender is best viewed in July, or in winter when covered in snow. The concept of showcasing hidden depths is perfectly captured and portrayed, and easily one of the most beautiful places in Hokkaido to add to your insta feed.

takinoreien.com
2-3 Takino, Minami Ward, Sapporo, Hokkaido 005-0862, Japan

Takinoue Park Shibazakura

芝ざくら滝上公園

From early May to early June, the small town of Takinoue transforms into one of the most Instagrammable places in Hokkaido, Japan. Shibazakura, also known as moss pink, moss phlox or creeping phlox blooms, transforming the landscape into a sea of pink, purple and white. In other places in Japan, notably near Mount Fuji in Yamanashi Prefecture, you can also see Shibazakura but in Takinoue you can stroll through millions of beautiful flowers over 100,000 square meters. It’s a small town without a train station, so it will take a threeand a half-hour drive from Sapporo – but don’t worry there’s plenty of other things to see in do in the area!

town.takinoue.hokkaido.jp
Motomachi, Takinoue, Monbetsu District, Hokkaido 099-5604, Japan

Sapporo Factory

サッポロファクトリー

The Sapporo Factory is a shopping and entertainment complex in downtown Sapporo which is made up of four large buildings. Originally the Sapporo Brewey in 1879 it is now a popular place for eating, shopping and the Sapporo Kaitakushi Brewery where you can observe the brewing process and taste a damn good beer!

As well as some stellar fine dining and standard restaurants, there is also a wine cellar and beer hall – but if you’re looking for the most photogenic spots then it’s definitely the outside of the buildings, where it changes appearance across seasons – again, autumn being my favourite!

sapporofactory.jp
4 Chome Kita 2 Johigashi, Chuo Ward, Sapporo, Hokkaido 060-0032

Snow Crystal Museum

雪の美術館

Located in the middle of Hokkaido on the outskirts of Asahikawa and housed within the Hokkaido Traditional Arts & Crafts Village is the mesmerising Snow Crystal Museum. Like a scene out of Beauty and the Beast crossed with Frozen, the European style building surrounded by snow is simply captivating.

Easily one of the most Instagrammable spots in Hokkaido, you will be captivated from the luxe spiralling staircase to the Snow Crystal Museum which is decorated with countless snow crystals and snowflakes. Making your way into ‘The Hallway of Ice’ allows you a closer look at the surrounding ice structures that are constantly changing in the -15 degree Celsius weather outside. Relive your Beauty & the Beast or Frozen fantasies in this one-of-a-kind museum.

yukibi.marryblossom.com
3 Chome-1-1 Minamigaoka, Asahikawa, Hokkaido 070-8028, Japan

Daisetsuzan National Park

大雪山

Spanning over 2000 square kilometres, smack bang in the middle of Hokkaido is Japan’s largest national park, Daisetsuzan National Park – and 100% is easily one of the most Instagrammable places in Hokkaido.
With several mountains surrounding Mt. Daisetsu, some of which are active volcanoes, this unspoiled wilderness is a paradise for outdoorsy types, hikers and nature lovers. Whether you want to hike and snap away or catch the cable car followed by the chairlift to the summit, there are endless ways and opportunities to get all the shots you need for your feed. There’s no better way to finish off your trip to Daisetsuzan National Park than by soaking in one of the numerous onsen in the hot spring towns located in the foothills of the area.

env.go.jp/park/daisetsu/
Yukomanbetsu, Higashikawa, Kamikawa District, Hokkaido Prefecture 071-1472

Mount Yotei

蝦夷富士

Located in Shikotsu-Toya National Park, Mount Yotei is an active stratovolcano roughly 3 hours from Sapporo – but don’t worry, the last eruption was roughly 6,000 years ago. Also known as Yezo Fuji or Ezo Fuji, Mount Yotei has garnered this nickname based off the old name for the island of Hokkaido (Ezo), due to its resemblance to Mount Fuji.

As one of the tallest peaks in Hokkaido, rising to 1,898 meters, Mount Yotei dominates the skyline of the Niseko Valley and overlooks the largest of Hokkaido’s ski resorts, Rusutsu. If you’re up for hiking there are four trails to the top, generally taking around 4-6 hours. If you’re not up for the hike or venturing out into the cold weather, being a single mountain you can get a 360 degree uninterrupted view anywhere – win-win!

Mount Yōtei, Kawanishi Kutchan, Abuta District, Hokkaido 044-0131 Japan

Lake Toya

洞爺湖

Located in Shikotsu-Toya National Park and attributed as one of the three great landscapes of Hokkaido, Lake Toya is also the ninth biggest lake in Japan.

Formed from volcanic activity, this large donut-shaped lake is free to enjoy and one of the most picturesque places to enjoy scenic and stunning views of the surrounding mountains. The Shikotsu-Toya National Park is a part of the “Toya Caldera and Usu Volcano Global Geopark” and the surrounding region features several onsen, as well as the perfect place for outdoor adventures including camping, hiking and fishing.

laketoya.com
Toyakonsen, Toyako-cho Abuta-gun, Hokkaido, 049-5721, Japan

Sapporo Snow Festival

さっぽろ雪まつり

Probably one of the most notable festivals in Japan and definitely one of the most instagrammable places in Hokkaido is the Sapporo Snow Festival – blending creativity with the winter dreamland of Hokkaido. Think sand sculptures are cool, wait till see you massive ice sculptures that take your breath away!

In 2020, the Sapporo Snow Festival will begin Friday 31 January and end on Wednesday 12 February – and it’s absolutely worth visiting, along with the other 2 million people from Japan and abroad that travel to attend the largest winter festival in Japan. Snow statues, ice sculptures, illuminations and interactive events – there’s so much to enjoy. The Snow Festival is held across three primary locations, Odori Avenue (Odori Park), Susukino, and Tsudome, which are all easy to get to so you don’t have to worry about missing out on anything.

snowfes.com
Odori Ave, Chūō-ku, Sapporo, Hokkaido, Japan

Cape Kamui

神威岬

A 2-hour drive from Sapporo is the stunning seaside of Cape Kamui on the Shakotan Peninsula. This is the perfect place for 360 degree panoramic views of the peninsula and the sea called ”Shakotan Blue” which is a popular tourist attraction noted for the jutting steep precipes that protrude into the deep sea.

With a thrilling 800m walking trail that extends to the tip of the cape, the easy hike will take roughly 20-30 minutes each way providing you with refreshing sea breezes and striking views of the clear blue sea. Arriving in the car park provides one of the best vantage points for Instagram snaps, and visitng in the afternoon offers mesmerising sunset views.

Kamui-misaki, Kozakicho, Shakotan-cho, Shakotan-gun 046-0321, Hokkaido

Even if you’re not a winter person like me (I could live in summer weather all year round), you have to admit that Japan, and in particular Hokkaido has some of the most amazing places to see. If you want to discover more amazing places in Japan you check out my other Japan articles here!

Save this article by pinning it, and adding it to your bucket list!

Thanks for reading my fellow avid traveller…

Xx Marc

Sourced Images

Shirogane Blue Pond
Right -© Instagram/amakakeru1127
Left – © Instagram/dionjonathn

Sapporo Factory
Top left – © Instagram/kanco_m
Top right – © Instagram/masa2833
Right – © Instagram/marirink0809
Bottom right – © Instagram/tarbo1978
Bottom left – © Instagram/mimichan4646

Mount Yotei
Top left – © Instagram/kiniseko
Top right – © Instagram/martinotirelli
Left – © Instagram/fortch
Bottom right – © Instagram/loveniseko
Bottom left – © Instagram/shoko0118i

Takino Reien
Top left – © Instagram/bombrack
Top right – © Instagram/craycray_carly
Right – © Instagram/capkaieda
Bottom right – © Instagram/93kumi93
Bottom left – © Instagram/claudiuslauder

Snow Crystal Museum
Top left – © Instagram/tellevamosmx
Top right – © Instagram/tsumizo
Right – © Zekkei Japan
Bottom right – © Instagram/leisypeisy

Daisetsuzan National Park
Top left – © Instagram/hoshinoresorts_magazine
Top right – © Instagram/oka_photo
Right – © Instagram/cyaruwaffle
Lower right – © Instagram/suparuj
Lower left – © Instagram/hideaki_hanaoka
Bottom right – © Instagram/kaylegordon
Bottom left – © Instagram/tracking.trout

Lake Toya
Top left – © Instagram/suz_toya
Top right – © Instagram/yunhoshinki
Right – © Instagram/xabibarreneche
Bottom right – © Instagram/y.kato.beta
Bottom left – © Instagram/10ryu16

Takinoue Park Shibazakura
Top left – © Instagram/tellevamosmx
Top right – © Instagram/tsumizo
Right – © Zekkei Japan
Bottom right – © Instagram/leisypeisy

Sapporo Snow Festival
Top left – © Instagram/demidemi_0410
Top right – © Instagram/mrmchonen
Left – © Instagram/tokyo_one
Bottom left © Instagram/visitjapan.us
Bottom right – © Instagram/visitjapan.us

Cape Kamui
Top left – © Instagram/katsudanna
Top right – © Instagram/urlaubsguru
Right – © Instagram/tripnote.jp
Bottom right – © Instagram/journeybeer
Bottom left – © Instagram/sazzannka

Takachiho Gorge – the Ultimate Guide to the Most Beautiful Waterfall in Japan

Marc B — Mon, 21 Nov 2022 10:00:54 +0000

Warning! This Waterfall at Takachiho Gorge Will Make You Book at Trip to Japan!

Takachiho Gorge, Miyazaki, Japan

Does the perfect place really does exist? Are the most mesmerizing waterfalls in Japan? Well Takachiho Gorge (高千穂峡) in the lush Miyazaki Prefecture of Kyushu will make you want to put all your travel plans on hold, and book a ticket to straight to Japan! Designated as National Place of Scenic Beauty, Takachiho Gorge is one of the most breathtaking natural attractions in Kyushu, as well as the whole of Japan – the waterfall pouring down over the iconic rowboats that slowly roam throughout the chasm.

Nestled in a steep gorge forged from an eruption of Mt. Aso volcano, Manai Falls (the actual name for the waterfall) are the most captivating cascades you will see in Japan, with the walk through the gorge no less than breathtaking.

The Gokase river runs through the 7-kilometre-long gorge reaching up to 100 metres in height giving you plenty of photo spots to capture the most picturesque photos of the gorge that resembles a dragon snaking its way through lush green foliage. The photos alone should do enough to convince you go!

Takachiho Gorge Itinerary

As a must-see attraction when visiting the Kyushu region of Japan, it’s best to plan ahead and get most out of your time there. The basic itinerary when visiting Takachiho Gorge includes:

Arrive at Takachiho Gorge.
Discover/Walk to the Manai Waterfall (30 minutes)
Boating in Takachiho Gorge (30 minutes) – need to book ahead
Eat Nagashi Somen / Catch Flowing Water Noodles For Lunch (30-40 minutes)
If you want to spend extra time in the area you can also:
Hike the Kyushu Nature Trail (30 minutes)
Visit Takachiho Shrine (高千穂神社, Takachiho Jinja) (30 minutes)

Walking to Takachiho Gorge

Whether you arrive by bus or drive there, you will ost likely start out from the Takachiho Bus Center, just outside the town centre. The walk from the town centre to the gorge is roughly 30 minutes. The path to the gorge continues to descend gently to the Takahiho shrine, providing excellent views along the way. Remember when leaving, or when you arrive, to check out the Machinaka Tourist Information Center directly across the street from the Takachiho Bus Center. Not only can you get some unique gifts you can also pick-up important information or brochures for attractions in the region.

We walked down the lengthy winding road to the gorge after passing through the relatively quiet streets. If you choose to visit the Takachiho Shrine on the way, it takes about 15 minutes, with signs indicating how far you have to go. On the walk through the gorge you will be blown away by the incredible surroundings; the chasm was formed around 90,000 years ago when the Mount Aso volcano erupted. The pyroclastic flow that had been flowing across the Gokase River had abruptly cooled and in turn producing the stunning columnar rock formations with organ pipe-like characteristics.

The the serene blue-green Gokase river cuts through the canyon providing a spectacular contrast, culminating with the water cascades falling from the cliff’s edge creating one of the most breathtaking views and a memorable natural experiences in Japan.

After visiting the falls, we took a leisurely stroll down to the Takachiho Promenade. There is a viewing point along the walkway where you can see the rowboats and the rush of the falls straight down to the river. This wooden observation deck is another great place to take in Manai’s famous views and interesting rock formations. It’s impossible to describe how beautiful the vista is and photos still don’t do it justice. Along the promenade, there are a few unique locations that you can’t miss. Kihachi no Chikaraishi, a massive boulder reported to be 3 metres tall and 200 tonnes in weight. Kihachi was a demon who was notorious for his bad activities, according to folklore. When ancient gods in Japan came after Kahachi, he threw this massive stone. There are quite a few myths surrounding Takachiho gorge, and it’s commonly referred to as the gorge where Gods live. Another location to check out on the walk is the Yaritobi Birdge that spreads across the narrowest part of the Gokase River.

Discover Minainotaki Waterfall

At the end of the walk through gorge you’ll arrive at the sheer cliffs where the 17 meter high Minainotaki waterfall cascade down to the river below. Surrounded by a background of lush foliage and grey cliffs it’s truly impressive.

The gorge can be viewed from two different angles that provide the best photo opportunities. The first method involves rowing down the river from below. The river is calm and easy to navigate, and rental boats are available near the south end of the gorge. The cliffs and waterfall may be seen up close and personal on this highly recommended route, but it does come with a fee. Walking along the paved walkway that runs along the brink of the gorge provides the second perspective, which is from above. Beautiful views can be seen all along the walk, and at some spots you can see almost straight down to the river below. The walk continues for nearly a kilometre before arriving at Takachiho Shrine.

There are a few more attractions near the gorge’s southern end, such as a freshwater aquarium, a stocked fishing pond, and a few restaurants and gift shops. During the summer, the gorge is lighted until 22:00 so if you can visit at night you’ll be in for an amazing sight.

Takachiho Gorge Boats

One of the must-do things in Takachiho Gorge is paddling around in a boat through the profound volcanic canyon. Boat rides are the best way to see the gorge, but you can only row within an approx. 200m area. When I visited the Takachiho Boats cost ¥2000 for 30 minutes with a max of 3 people per boat, yet in recent years this has jumped to ¥3000 which is nearly $40 AUD. If you do want to jump in a boat GO EARLY! The rental hours are 8.30am-4.30pm and you can expect to wait a few hours if you don’t go early. You can get more information on Takachiho Boat rentals here.

If you have a tight budget or aren’t sure if it’s worth it, remember you can simply see everything from the walkways and viewing platforms and still have an extraordinary encounter without hacking up $ for the boat rental. If you skip the boats, you will also save a few hours from waiting, which you can use to visit other places in the region.

Catch the Flowing Water Somen Noodles

After viewing the falls we decided to explore the promenade and maybe grab a quick snack. If you’re hungry or simply want to try a one-of-a-kind dining experience then make sure you try the Nagashi Somen Noodles (流しそうめん). Nagashi Somen Noodles are the most well-known and popular dish and were actually invented here in the 1950s at the Chiho no Ie Teahouse (千穂の家) so make sure to try out this signature local speciality. It’s quirky and fun to try and catch the somen noodles as they flow down the bamboo, and they actually taste great! Somen are thin and white noodles made from wheat flour and are generally eaten cold or dipped in cold broth. A set meal will cost you ¥1200, or ¥1700 with grilled fish in the set menu.

Planning Your Trip to Takachiho Gorge

How to Get to Takachiho Gorge

I drove to the gorge, and trust me, it’s a lot better than wasting most of your day waiting for and catching a bus there and back. If you’re driving to the gorge you have more freedom with your time and you can also stop at various scenic places along the way such as Mt Aso and Reidaikyo Bridge (below). If you’re getting to Takachiho Gorge via public transport make sure to allocate your time wisely and give yourself enough time to get back to Takachiho Station.

Driving to Takachiho Gorge

While you can stay in Miyazaki, it’s far more typical to stay in Fukuoka (Kyushu’s largest city) or Kumamoto. If you are staying in either of those locations, you should rent a car for the day or, like I did, for the duration of your trip on Kyushu Island. Apart from the lines to and from the larger cities, having a car made it very easy to visit all of the amazing natural sights, since there wasn’t much in the way of public transportation. For the most part, getting to remote waterfalls or volcanoes is done on a tour or by car.

Takachiho Gorge from Fukuoka: It takes roughly 3 hours to travel 178 kilometres from Fukuoka City to Takachiho Gorge. You could make a few stops along the route to break up the journey (like we did) but it will unavoidably be long.

Takachiho Gorge from Kumamoto: If you want to visit Takachiho Gorge, Kumamoto is a closer place to start. It’s a 77-kilometer drive from Kumamoto that takes 1 hour and 40 minutes by automobile. It is also 1 hour to Mt Aso.

My advice is to do yourself a favour a drive – it’s approx.. 1.5hrs from Kumamoto Airport, and 3.5hrs from Fukuoka airport. If you’re like me, and planned a few days in and around Kyushu visiting different towns, then it’s easy to add the waterfall to your trip.

As a sidebar, my week-long Kyushu trip went from Fukuoka > Beppu > Takachiho > Kumamoto > Nagasaki > Fukuoka. Unfortunately, I didn’t have enough time to get down to Kagoshima (there’s always next time!).

When you arrive at the gorge following GPS, it will take you to the small-town centre with the gorge a 30-minute walk away. Tourist buses are infrequent and there are no buses on regular weekdays (from my research as well as information from Japanese friends). When you arrive in the town centre there are parking lots on two side of the trail providing easy parking.

Tour / Day Trip to Takachiho Gorge (if You Don’t Want to Drive)

If you’re based in Kumamoto and worried transportation or are not planning on driving, there are day tours you can book that come with an English-speaking guide such as this tour on Klook. It will let you do all the things you want to do such as explore the gorge, row in the famous boats as well as visit the ancient Takachiho shrine.

If you’re based in Fukuoka then you can book a similar day trip tour such as this tour on Klook. I haven’t taken a tour on Klook so can’t speak to the overall experience, but if it gets you to Takachiho Gorge then I doubt you will be disappointed.

Best Season to Visit Takachiho Gorge

Summer and fall are the most popular tourist seasons on Kyushu Island, and they are both stunning; Japan transforms in each of the four seasons so visiting anytime has its benefits. The trees turn a gorgeous hue of orange and other colours in the fall (best visited between mid-November and early December). The combination of fall foliage, waterfall mist, and stunning rock formations creates a magical ambience. If you choose to visit May-July you are blessed with the nicest weather in the summer (I went in the summer, providing leaf greens and moderate weather for the short hike). If you want to visit without the crowds, Takachiho Gorge is less crowded, quieter, and more picturesque in the winter. The result is that it is essentially a year-round attraction that only varies somewhat at different periods of the year and it is open all year for visitors.

The picturesque gorge and its surroundings take on a varied look depending on the season and even from a different angle. The leaves remain green along the gorge from April to October, and this is the classic shot for Takachiho Gorge.

During the spring, it is not a popular site for sakura viewing but you can see plenty of sakura throughout Kyushu. Whilst Takachiho Gorge is popular in the summer, it can be crowded, especially on weekends and holidays. The waterfalls and the promenade are illuminated by powerful spotlights at night creating a mysterious and serene atmosphere.

Best Time to Visit Takachiho Gorge

The most critical aspect of your trip to Takachiho Gorge is the time of day that you visit, not the season of year that you visit. This is because during a brief hour-spell, light shines down upon the waterfall, creating a golden flow. When I arrived at 10 a.m., the sun was in the right location, and the waterfall began to sparkle around 11 a.m. Whether you have a camera or not, this was the greatest time to take photos and simply enjoy the gorge in the best lighting. Arrive in the middle of the morning and stay for a while, giving you time to set up and get your rowboat, or to locate a beautiful position to take in the views of the gorge.

We showed up at Takachiho Gorge at around 10 am, which ended up being incredible luck. The brilliant lighting hit the cascade around 45-minutes after the fact so we were in the ideal timeframe for photographs. If you book a towboat, the walk down to the harbor region allows you to pass a wonderful cascade, the well known Minainotaki Waterfall, which is the superstar in the crevasse.

The second method for partaking in the Takachiho Gorge is from one of the many viewpoints around the falls. My two top picks were the scaffold and the lower (generally well known) perspective. The extension provides you with an exceptionally raised perspective on the boats and the cascade beneath, outlined pleasantly by the overhanging trees and the walls of the chasm. The lower perspective is supposed to be staggeringly packed during crowded seasons however we had it generally to ourselves, as there weren’t many people on the trail plus people continue to hike to and fro instead of staying in the same spot.

After visiting the falls, make sure to keep an eye out for local wildlife and try out the the noodle shops close to the stream giving you a truly unique way to eat somen noodles. Strips of bamboo run along the tables, with water flowing constantly. Be quick to snatch up your noodles as they drift down. And if you are thinking, wait are these cold noodles? Yep, the restaurant uses cooled water from the cascades to keep the somen noodles at the right temperature, and honestly makes it a truly incredible experience.

What to See & Do in Kyushu

Nearby Attractions in Takachiho & Where Should You Go in Kyushu

Fukuoka – If you want to be in a vibrant city scene and a central base, you may want to stay in Fukuoka. Fukuoka has heaps of incredible sites and is famous for Hakata Ramen!

Kumamoto – If you’re looking to get away from the bustling city life and be centrally positioned for all hotspot tourist locations then visit and stay in Kumamoto.

Beppu – If you want to check out a lot of hot springs, mud baths, and sand baths, Beppu in Oita prefecture is the best place for you.

Kagoshima – If you are eager to go hiking in Kirishima and see Mt. Sakurajima, head to Kagoshima prefecture.

Yakushima (Separate Island) – If you want to hike through the stunning Shiratani Unsuikyo Valley, see ancient cedar trees, and waterfalls, Yakushima is the best place for you.

How to Travel Around Kyushu

While the train may suit those in Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, and even in Fukuoka, it won’t cut it out here on Kyushu. The trains will get you from major towns and even into some regional areas with bus connections but almost all of the adventure spots I visited had no bus connections. When I searched on Google Maps and clicked the public transport option it would just say ‘not available’. I also got Japanese friends to help find travel arrangements and the results are very clear; Kyushu island is best to explore by car, especially if you are doing hikes and activities outside of the main cities.

Renting a car wasn’t too expensive and I did the car booking online finding the best-reviewed and the cheapest options. I flew in from Osaka so picked the car up from Fukuoka Airport and dropped it back when I was done. I got a very small car as it was cheap but it turned out very handy on narrow roads and for parking. Remember you need to have an international driver’s license to rent a car in Japan. In fact, they won’t even look at your actual driver’s license and only want to see the international driver’s license. Without it, no car, no refund.

Overview – Day Trip to Takachiho Gorge

All in all, words can’t describe how beautiful Takachiho Gorge was. The volcanic rock formations are almost ethereal and completely mesmerising. Try to allocate at least 3 hours if you’re walking to and from the gorge, though it can be done in 1.5hrs if you blaze through it. It is definitely worth the long drive out there to view such a unique breathtaking natural attraction and still remains one of the most memorable and beautiful trips I’ve undertaken in Japan. If you are interested in Kyushu, check out other Kyushu blog articles on my site or if you have any questions don’t hesitate to drop us an email if you need any information and help on the Takachiho travel guide.

This waterfall is a definite for any bucket list! Pin it now, plan later!

The Best Animal Cafes in Osaka

Marc B — Thu, 18 Aug 2022 17:46:54 +0000

The Best Animal Cafes in Osaka, Japan

Anyone who knows me, knows that I’m an absolute animal lover! Every trip includes zoos, aquariums, wildlife etc., and when in Japan a definite must-see for any itinerary is one of the many raved-about animal cafes! When the animals are just so cute, how can you not visit?

Let’s get stuck into the list of the best animal cafes in Osaka in no particular order…

1) Owl Family Cafe

Starting on the hour and lasting only an hour, Owl Family Café is quaint little place that boasts over 30 different owls and is a definite addition if you plan on visiting animal cafes in Osaka. You can spend your whole 60 minutes patting owls, holding them (perched on your arm) or snuggling up to them and taking dozens and dozens of snaps.

Hot tip: you can reserve your spot online or arrive early to leave your name and then explore the local area such as Kuromon Market! If you arrive early and close to the hour on a weekday, you’ll most likely just walk straight in, like I did.

Cost: ¥1,500 per 1 hour session with 1 soda/coffee or tea (+¥200 for beer)

Location: Close to Minami-Morimachi Station, you can find Owl Family Café at 1 Chome-10-13 Tenjinbashi, Kita-ku, Ōsaka-shi, Ōsaka-fu 530-0041, Japan

Opening hours: Tuesday to Friday 12:00pm – 8:00pm, Saturday, Sunday, PH 11:00am – 8:00pm, Closed Mondays.

2) Rockstar Reptile Cafe

I may be weird, but I love creepy crawlies, and Rockstar Reptile Café was my favourite animal cafes in Osaka to visit. If your faint of heart or not a fan of reptiles and insects then quickly scroll down to the next café.

Like something from a Harry Potter movie, the café/bar is wall-to-wall packed with a HUGE range of creatures you can get up close and personal with and with unlimited time, you can spend all day and night here! The extensive range of hair raising, spine tingling animals includes lizards, snakes, tarantulas and other spiders, chameleons, geckos, iguanas, bats, owls, turtles, bugs, beetles and centipedes.

Once you get over your initial fear and hesitation, this café will definitely become a highlight on any Japan trip! Trust me, I took a friend who was petrified of snakes and spiders, and by the end they were wanting more!

Hot tip: you have to ask staff to remove the animals from their tanks and cages, you can’t simply get them yourself. To save time and waiting, or to get your hands on a desired creature the best way is to be friendly and talk to other people in the café. Making small talk will allow you to swap creatures with your café neighbours and will allow you to hold pretty much all animals without having to wait or flag down a staff member.

Cost: ¥1,000 without drinks, but you do get a membership to visit for free in the future – so if you’re like me, then that’s a bonus!

Location: A 5-10 min walk from Namba station, you’ll find this café on the 3^rd floor of the Namba FK Building (2-7-7 Namba FK building 3F , Naniwa-ku, Osaka-shi Nanbanaka, 〒556-0011)

Opening hours: 12:00pm – 11:00pm

3) Small Animal Cafe Rock Star

Run by the same people as the Reptile Cafe, the Small Animal Café has a range of unusual and different animals that you get to interact with. As an Aussie, in Australia we don’t have hedgehogs, squirrels and chipmunks so this café is the perfect place to hold some furry little creatures that you don’t normally get to see. Don’t worry, there’s still a normal range of animals such as rabbits, hamsters and ferrets. Again unlimited time, so play and take a load of super cute instagram pics that are sure to make your friends jealous.

Cost: ¥1,000 not including drinks. Same one-time entry fee as the Reptile Café.

Location: A 5 min walk from Namba station and reasonably close to Dotonbori.

Opening hours: 1:00pm – 10:00pm

4) Dog Tail Cafe

In my personal opinion (and don’t hate me for it) dogs are way cuter than cats, and Dog Tail Café is the best place to cuddle some playful little pups.

With an assortment of dogs whose tails will all be wagging when you walk in the door, take your pick of the litter and play with dozens of dogs including dachshunds, poodles, chihuahuas and more. When you enter you’re assigned an area where you can enjoy a coffee or cool drink whilst a small army of cuteness-overload will run around trying to get your attention. It’s hard to snap away at the cute little faces, adorable puppy eyes and general canine antics when you have plenty of puppies that all want a pat and to play.

(source Twitter)

Cost: ¥1,000 for 50 minutes

Location: You’ll find Dog Tail on the 4^th Floor of the Yoshie Building at 2-4-6 Yoshie Building, Chuo-ku, Osaka Dotonbori

Opening hours: Mon-Fri: 12:00pm – 10:00pm, Sat & Sun & Public Holidays: 11:00am – 10:00pm

5) Neco Republic (Cat Café)

If you have your heart on heading to a cat café, then Neco Republic is where you need to go. On the 3^rd floor of Neco Republic you will find a cat café where you can relax with many cute cats, but the best thing about Neco Republic is that the whole building is one big business animal shelter that supports cat rescue activities. So you can not only enjoy patting these loving felines, but you can also adopt one if your heart desires. As well as the cat café, there is a nap room on a different floor where you can nap with a cat, as well as a shop to purchase any cat related items.

Cost: ¥1,100 for 30 minutes, ¥1,500 for 60 minutes with ¥500 additions for an extra 30 minutes. All prices include one drink. Holidays and weekends are an additional ¥200 yen per half/full hour.

Location: Only a ten min walk from Shinsaibashi station, you’ll find Neco Republic at 1-26-9 Higashishinsaibashi, Chuo-ku, Osaka-shi.

Opening hours: Mon, Wed-Fri: 2:00pm – 8:00pm, Sat & Sun & Public Holidays: 1:00pm – 7:00pm, Closed Tuesdays.

Other notable animal cafes in Osaka…

The Original Cat Café – Neko no Jikan

Located close to Umeda, Neko no Jikan was the first ever cat café in Japan and a lot more traditional i.e. you can relax with some beautiful cats, in a Japanese-style café with tatami mats (what a tongue twister!). There is a free time period (from 6:00pm to 9:00pm) which is recommended if you plan to spend a few hours at this traditional café. If you’re more inclined to a modern venue with a younger crowd, check out their second café in Americamura (America Town) that’s filled with many young fashionistas.

Cost: ¥1,100 for 60 minutes including one drink, and ¥1,200 for weekends . The free time period is ¥1,200 for as long as you want (between 6:00-9:00pm) on weekdays)

Location: Only a 2-3 minute walk from Nakazakicho station, Neko no Jikan can be found at 2-17-10 Nishishinsaibashi, Chuo-ku, Osaka.

Opening hours: Mon: 11:00am – 7:00pm, Tue-Sat: 11:00am – 9:00pm, Sun: 10:00am – 7:00pm

America-mura Snake Cafe

Yes I love snakes, I think they’re awesome. So if you’re a fan of these cool creatures like me then make sure you check out America-mura Snake Café by the same team behind Osaka Reptile Cafe and Small Animal Cafe Rockstar. In a sexy new venue in the heart of America town that’s a brief walk from Shinsaibashi station, you can get up close and personal with an abundance of snakes from across the globe. With a range of pythons, rat snakes, corn snakes, several boas and more, there are so many of fascinating , slithering snakes in palette of colours and patterns that are sure to get your spine tingling.

Cost: Same as the Reptile Cafe, ¥1,000 without drinks, but you do get a membership to visit for free in the future.

Location: You’ll find the Snake Café on the 4^th floor of the

Yajima Building at 1-8-11 Nishi-shinsaibashi, Chuo-ku, Osaka

Opening hours: 12:00pm – 10:00pm

Know another good animal cafes in Osaka? Leave a comment below, I’d love to know!

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The Most Instagrammable places in Osaka!

Marc B — Thu, 17 Mar 2022 15:26:08 +0000

I’m gonna come out and admit it, I’m an Instagram addict (it’s where you’ll find me the most) and there are so many places in Osaka that are ace to capture the perfect pic – ergo I decided to create a list of the most Instagrammable places in Osaka (in case you’re planning to visit – which I hope you are)! Every region and prefecture of Japan is different and offers it’s own beauty – so I’ll hopefully do a few more of these posts for other regions across Japan.

Anyways I’ve broken this list into 2 sections – the first, my recommendations on where to go for cool pics, and the second where most tourists take photos (not necessarily my favourite spots).

A quick tip I’ve learnt living here, if you’re not sure if you can take a photo somewhere you can ask:

Shashin ii des ka?

This literally translates as ‘photo ok?’ and it should be ok. A couple of times, people have been confused wondering whether I wanted to take a photo of them, so if you ask, just point what you want to take a photo of. Aside from this, if it’s outdoors or a public space, no need to ask, just snap away. Without further ado, here’s my list of fave places in no particular order that will hopefully help you rack up the likes!

For city nights with neon lights… Shinsekai

If you think of nightlife in Osaka, you either think of Namba, Shinsaibashi, Horie, Umeda or…. Shinsekai. With a name that translates to ‘New World’ it was founded in 1912 as half New York half Paris, and offers a wealth of sights, sounds, smells and tastes (which you can read in short here) but it’s not a shopping area; it primarily focusses on food. A magnet for Instagrammers and is one of the best instagrammable places in Osaka – Shinsekai is all neon lights, lanterns colourful signage, as well as Tsutenkaku Tower which sits in the centre of town as the symbol of Shinsekai.

For incredible views… Umeda Sky Building

Yes this one is a little touristy-cliche BUT you can take really amazing pictures especially if you get a day with a great sunset, or you want to ride an escalator to heaven! It’s always busy as it is one of the most popular attractions and landmarks of Osaka and features an open roof with 360-degree panoramic views of the city.

For more seafood than you can handle… Kuromon Market

Osaka is considered the food capital of Japan (and for good reason) and Kuromon Ichiba is 580 meters of food goodness! I just filmed the 7 WTF Crazy Foods at Kuromon Market, which you can watch here! Though primarily used to cater to restaurants, with over 170 shops there is a huge amount of food stalls that cater to the general public. If you’re not big on seafood, don’t stress as you can also find a wide range of other food such as beef (Kobe beef), vegetables (the fresh roasted sweet potato rocks), fruit as well as famous Osaka street food.

For cute critters and creepy crawlies… Cafe Rockstar

Yes a lot of people won’t like this place, but if you’re an animal lover, want to try something different or simply want a kickass image for your Insta then this cafe has it! There are so many amazing animals to get a picture with including snakes, lizards, geckos, beetles, bugs, spiders and more! Check out other popular Animal Cafes here.

For a Harry Potter Inspired Pic… Owl Family Cafe

There are so many different animal cafes in Osaka and Japan (read more here) and one of my faves is this place. Owls are just so darn cute, so cute that I even posted a pic with me in it – and that rarely happens! Pat their little beaks or attempt a staring contest (you will lose, I tried) and just have an overall hoot!

For a little wilderness not far from the city… Minoh Waterfall

Minoh Waterfall is one of the most beautiful places and instagrammable spots in Osaka, and is so different and incredible across the seasons (have a look my post here and see for yourself). Only a quick train trip from the city this is the best place to to escape the bustle and take a breath. If you can make it for the Minoh Candle Festival in July – even better!

For the best hike just outside Osaka… Mukogawa Gorge

Seriously one of my favourite places and one of the most instagrammable places in all of Kansai. When you walk along this hiking trail through the Mukogawa Gorge you’re in fact walking along an old, abandoned train line including passing through several PITCH BLACK train tunnels – all the way enjoying the stunning scenery, lush forests, flowing river and beautiful train bridges. Seriously – go here!

For the best cherry blossoms in Osaka… Osaka Mint Bureau

With over 300 cherry trees and over 100 varieties, and for only 1 week in April, you can stroll amongst the sakura and take the most mesmerising photos!

For a booklovers dream… Hirakata T Site

Thousands and thousands of books stacked to the rafters – this place has everything! With more books, comics and magazines than you can read in a lifetime, as well as lifestyle and stationary goods – you’ll spend more of your time taking photos than with your nose in a book! Seriously this is one of the most instagrammable places in Osaka!

For a local’s secret stunning shrine… Namba Yasaka Jinja

This shrine can be a little difficult to find – but it’s so worth it. If you really want a one-of-a-kind experience to visit here then check out Kamitowa – a Japanese paper company where you can make your own Goshuin to collect calligraphy seals from temples and shrines and then go on a guided tour of this shrine!

For a photo that’s iconically Osaka… Dotonbori Glico Man

When you think Dotonbori, you think the giant neon signs, especially that of sweets manufacturer “Ezaki Glico”. Comprised of 140,000 LEDs this sign is best viewed at night before exploring the famous street food of Osaka.

For legendary landmarks… Osaka Castle

Picture perfect from any angle it is no wonder it is probably one of the most instagrammable places in Osaka. Osaka Castle is a must visit, when you come to Osaka and is particularly picturesque during cherry blossom season. Despite this, even on rainy days, cloudy days or perfect blue sky days – you’ll be able to capture this beauty in all it’s glory from a range of angles, inside and outside the castle grounds.

For aquatic creatures of every kind… Kaiyukan Aquarium

Even if you don’t like aquariums – this one will make you change your mind. One of the biggest in Japan and the world, there are more than 15 tanks, 19 sections and over 620 species of animals! The sea otters and whale sharks are the standouts in my opinion!

Seriously there are alot of great instagrammable places in Osaka to take the perfect instagram pic – and take my advice, avoid the tourist traps if you can, and head off the beaten path to some of the more secret spots that are so much more beautiful!

Know another good spot for a great Instagram snap? Leave a comment below!

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