A desert which stretches along sea coast gives a serene wilderness. It’s a pure bucket list destination. Recommendations: there is no vending machine at the spot so better to bring water with you. Toilet: no Parking: plenty of paid parking. But there is free parking spaces in front of サンコスモスshop.

The sand dunes were absolutely incredible! It was definitely a workout — walking through the sand was so tiring, but honestly so worth it once you reach the top. The views were amazing and unlike anything I’ve seen before. Such a unique experience — I’d 100% recommend it, just make sure to bring water and good shoes!

This was my first time treading through a sand dune and IT WAS THE BEST TIME OF MY LIFE! On terms of parking, the price is reasonable and there are a lot of spaces. For the sand dune itself, although it was really windy (As the sand dune was facing the Sea of Japan), the view was very mesmerizing! However, my shoes and socks were covered in sand. So, I recommend you wear sandals / slippers to any kind of sand dunes! Therefore, you’ll have more fun! I highly recommend to go here if you ever have the chance to go to Tottori!

The sand dunes are a really nice attraction, it is so beautiful but be ready to empty you shoes from all the sand afterwards! Go inside the information center to get your stamp if you are collecting them. The parking is 500 yen for 24 hours, but it is only valid as long as you don't exit.

Worth visiting and people will not believed you that you are in Japan. The sand dunes is huge and you need to reserve lots of energy to walk both ways to the beach. You can take lots of pictures with the spectacular views…. A place with unique experience in Japan. ❤️

Go for a tourist stop horseback dune. But, if you cross to the other side (West), where there is more vegetation covered dunes, you will discover plenty of floral and fauna. Not many people on that side.

AMAZING, if you are in the surroundings areas, this is a must do! I went there in this July 2025 so a little hot but then, you can just jump in the sea. I had a very good time.

This world’s first indoor sand museum doesn’t do your average beach sandcastles. Think massive faces, amazing life-sized human figures, towering structures, even detailed entire cities. All sculpted from JUST SAND and WATER. Unreal. 🏰🇯🇵 #SandMuseum #Tottori

An amazing exhibition! The craftsmanship and detail in each sculpture are incredible. I really appreciated how much information was provided about each piece, which made the experience even more interesting. In my opinion, the entry price is very fair - I would have happily paid more for something of this quality. Definitely worth a visit if you’re in Tottori!

I really enjoyed this. I'm a history teacher and the history shown here was amazing. The talent of the sculptures was really awe inspiring. I highly recommend coming to visit here. When I went, it was japanese history. It changes every year.

Insanely pretty! Must visit spot if going to the sand dunes! Relaxing after a long hike as well. Staffs are super helpful too and there’s toilets!!! When we went to the staff to get a locker, they offered us to keep our luggage’s with them! They were super dupe friendly. There’s also a bus nearby, I think 4 lines total so it’s pretty flexible if you want to get to Tottori station or surrounding towns. Would recommend a lot.

Absolutely amazing experience! The museum was so well put together — every exhibit was fascinating and beautifully displayed. I learned so much and genuinely enjoyed every minute of it. The staff were friendly, and everything was super organized. I would highly recommend visiting if you get the chance — definitely one of the highlights of my trip!

I grew up in Tottori, but this was my first time visiting here. It was amazing! This is one of the best places that tourists should visit in Japan. Tottori is the smallest prefecture in Japan, but I’m proud that it has such an amazing sand museum.

By far the most impressive exhibition I have seen for a long time. Blown away by the skills of and detail with which the artists were able to create these sculptures, using nothing but water and sand.

Discover a stunning park that's breathtaking any time of the year. Spend a whole day exploring its scenic beauty and relaxing atmosphere. Inside, you'll find charming eateries and a delightful tea house, perfect for a quick refresh or a leisurely sip. Don't forget, for just 100 yen, you can buy food to feed the cheerful fish, adding a fun touch to your visit.

It’s a beautiful park with many things to see and many rest areas for guests to get a snack and experience the zen-ness of Japanese gardens. I think that this one is better than korakuen at nearby okayama ;) a round trip within the garden takes about 1hour so pace yourself!

One of my favourite gardens in Japan! Not crowded at all but so well maintained and it was absolutely beautiful! I was not expecting it to be so big and they had a stamp rally that made it fun to go around and collect them! The teahouses were also lovely. Even the staff and volunteers were incredibly nice, met a wonderful volunteer named Toyota-san who spoke wonderful Englush and had amazing stories to tell!

It was better than I expected. The Kikugetsu Stay, which borders the largest pond inside the park, made me want to be there for a long time. The staff wearing kimonos guided me inside an old wooden house, drank tea, and it was an experience that made me realize that I had come to Japan. I went around every corner of the building, felt the atmosphere, and explored the space. I would like to visit again next time. 🌳

A very nice Japanese park, good for strolling and bird watching. A lot of people were bringing their long lense camera. There's also stamp rally going on inside the park, you don't have to collect all of them (there are 8 spots), you can get a sticker! The routes are very pebble-ly , might be challenging for wheelchair users. There's quite a few steps as well. There's also a tea house where they serve you green tea in ceremony style... and lots of koi fishes! They sells the koi treats for 100円 there's stick version (like ice cream cone) and the normal pellet too. Wedding ice cream is fun to eat too.

I decided on a morning run from my hotel to Ritsurin Garden, hoping for a quiet solo stroll. Upon arrival, a guide kindly offered me a tour. I was hesitant at first due to my limited Japanese, but the guide was incredibly patient and welcoming. We managed to communicate using a mix of basic phrases, gestures, and a little help from Google Translate. The result was a fantastic, personalized tour that taught me so much about the garden's deep history and exquisite beauty. It was a highlight of my trip—highly recommend accepting the offer if you get the chance!

We made a reservation online weeks earlier for the boat tour at 9:30am. I originally thought the boat tour would take us around the whole garden, especially since it was summer and I wanted to avoid walking too much under the hot sun. But I was wrong, the boat only goes around one corner of the garden (though it is the most beautiful part), and it is not shaded. A hat was provided to each customer, which helped a little. The boat rower kindly explained the garden’s history and even sang an Italian song for us towards the end 😁 Still, I found the garden itself rather boring, and summer is probably not the best season to visit.

Really nice view and went there close to sunset and it was pretty amazing the place was rather crowded though but would still highly recommend going there. As the view is pretty stunning!

✨ A magical and romantic place ✨ Visiting Angel Road was an unforgettable experience. The sandy path appears during low tide, connecting several small islands and creating a unique scenery. The atmosphere is peaceful, perfect for a romantic walk or enjoying the sunset. There’s also a viewpoint with a bell where couples ring it for good luck in love, which makes the place even more special. Make sure to check the tide schedule to walk the entire path. A must-see spot in Shodoshima, full of natural beauty and romance. 🌊💫

When we arrive the sun was already going down and the sunset view was amazing. The tide was already rising but there is still people trying to cross over. ( pls becarful if you do but I don’t recommend 🫣) There is a car park near by but not a lot of space tho.

We made a beeline straight for this place as soon as we got off the ferry, and were glad we took our car. The bus wait seemed a bit slow. We missed the tide around sunset, and it wasn’t too crowded when we went. I was able to fly my drone here and capture some beautiful footage of the rock formations around here. There was a couple that was getting wedded that day, and most people edged out of the way to let them take their wedding pictures. Most folks descend down the steps to here, and come straight to the beach area to take pictures of the “island”. But there also steps to the left that are a bit discreet; they lead up to a series of stairs that give you a nice panoramic view of the island and there is a lover’s bell up on the top as well.

Wonderful experience, check the low tide times before you go (your window is 2 hours before to 2 hours after for a total of 4 hours). Cool to see the flora and fauna that clearly were in the ocean water hours ago. Crossing the sand bar and back is picturesque and can be done in less than 30 minutes. Bonus trip up the stairs near the entrance leads you to a bell you can ring for love!

Took Olive bus no. 6 here. As it was low tide, we could walk on the road or rather the beach. We walked till the end where we saw past visitors had hang blessings notes on the branches of the tree. It was a nice stroll on the beach. After that we headed to Yumi Katsura Lover's Sanctuary where we could ring the bell and looked down on Angel road

Beautiful. But I recomend to stay there for 15 to 30 mins only

Being here feels like walking into a Ghibli wonderland. One almost senses benevolent forest creatures just behind some leaves or up in the trees. It’s pretty magical. How is it possible there are places like this available to anyone fortunate enough to visit. Admission is ¥500. So worth it!!

A wonderful set of two vine bridges. The area is very peaceful and not a lot of other people are around, so you will find lots of space to relax and enjoy the scenery. There is also a small rocky river bank to relax, paddle and swim in below the bridges.

Difficult to get to without a car but wow it's amazing! Even in fairly heavy rain, it added to the atmosphere. It's a long, winding and narrow drive from the other vine bridge so be careful. But it's totally worth it as we had the whole place to ourselves! The only negative was that the transport cart was out of commission.

Don't wear a skirt. :) Didn't know I was coming here but I wasn't dressed for the occasion. Was cool to see, not many people there at the time of going in May/June. There are a few steps down to the bridge.

Wow! Amazing location for hike and sight seeing! The bridge is really wabbly and the gap is enough to slip your food sideways. That's what makes it exciting. However, be careful when crossing the bridge. Ticket is required during opening hours, however after the counter closes, you can just get in and enjoy the area for free.

Two beautiful vine bridges hidden in the Iya Valley. While the construction is not original (the wood has rotted over the years), the bridges have been in this location for over 800 years. There is a small fee (~$4 USD) per person to access the area, but we were happy to pay it to support the struggling tourism industry here and support continued upkeep of the bridges. We had the area to ourselves when we went. Recommend these vine bridges over the more popular one in the western Iya Valley, as there were 2 bridges at this location and much fewer people.

The place was not easy to go because it was inside a mountain area. Part of the road in this area was narrow and only allowed one car to pass through. The condition of the road was quite raw with nothing on the roadside, which might not be suitable for inexperienced drivers. During winter time, it was closed till the end of March. Parking was free. Shop and eateries were operating here but closed in winter as well.

If you like studio ghibli then it’s a must go. The windmill is the highlight of the place. So many people taking photo there. After parking you need to go to the museum, they have a wall where they hang the famous Kiki broom. But sometime you need to wait since many took it for photo. After taking the break you can then head to the windmill. The olive oil ice cream was good also specially after all the jumping 😆😆😆.

tbh it’s frustrating to walk uphill under scorching sun, from the bus stop. it’s a nice olive park tho, big square with art installations and the windmill that everyone is crazy about. big souvenir shop, resto and stuff, even a shrine!! also a tiny museum and noodles place along the road. i spent 3hrs there, but i think most people left faster than i did. once is enough for me; i won’t go again if no one drives me uphill.

An olive garden with a lot of photogenic spots. There are the oldest olive tree in Japan, a windmill, a lovely house and a statue of Athena. There is a large souvenir shop with various olive products from snack, food to cosmetics.

You can borrow the broom for free to pretend to be Kiki in Ghibli Kiki's Delivery Service~ Please also go to lookout~

Though I am not a big fan of theme park, this scenic olive-theme park was definitely worth a visit. Its herb garden, museum, and olive farm were both beautiful and educational. Potential visitors need to budget their time accordingly as the buses run infrequently (especially in the late afternoon)!

The Olive Garden consists of multiple Greek style structures, like the iconic windmill and the herb garden. It was fun to look for heart shaped olive leaves

Not only famous for the olive, but also with a fabulous scenery!

If you enjoyed watching Shōgun, visit this place to learn about the 47 Rōnin. And to buy good saķé from the local shops.

This is the castle of the ASANO family, who were the lords of Ako. Some buildings and gardens are recently restored to its original appearance.

It’s beautiful in the summer time. Very quiet and peaceful!

Lovely local historical place. You can walk around the castle ruins and see the foundation of where the rooms were located and what purpose did they have. On the outskirt of the ruins you can enjoy walking a long the path. Good times to visit is during cherry blossom season and fall/autumn season.

This was a very interesting setting. With the outer walls still present and some of the internal structures, you could well imagine as your walk around the structures that must have existed in times gone by. A little different but worth a visit. The nearby temple is a monument to the 47 Ronin.

Nice historical place of 47 Ronin. I rent a bicycle nearby Ako station to get there. It was spring so I could see beautiful Sakura inside the castle.

There is a lot more to do and restore.

Shops opening hours is not fix, early close… but really good feeling & relaxing place

Tried to hire bikes here today, and were rather tersly dealt with by the lady at the tourist information who refused to rent us bikes as it was cloudy and may rain. Despite expressing that we were happy to still go she refused and ushered us out the office. We couldn't understand why she had treated us so abruptly. So we went to the hotel just up the road and hired bikes there. It didn't rain.

Probably the best onsen town I've been to. The streets are very traditional, along with the bath houses. Everything is wooden and tiled. Many people wander the streets in yukata to easily change in and out for the hot springs. Visitors can buy a day pass which gives you unlimited access to any of the bath houses. Towel rental at each bath house costs around 300 yen. The outdoor hot springs are designed very beautifully, while indoor ones are very standard. I would definitely like to come again!

This is one of the first places in Japan where I got to experience warm hospitality, natural beauty and culture. A very romantic and peaceful side of the country. Authentic Onsens are really must-try in the area. Plus is the Kinosaki International Arts Center were the people are not just talented but are also friendly. Ibwill surely get back to this place when I have the chance and means. I'm constantlybpraying for that.

Beautiful little town. Would have loved to have stayed longer. Nice boutique shops and independent restaurants serving local food. You must try the beef!

Staff at this particular office were all so friendly and helpful. They truly showed their hospitality to tourists who stepped in to the office and got out of their way to help.

This place so peaceful... known have 7 onsen (hot spring) you can relaxing there or just look around too see the views

Much more pleasant and peaceful than inside the castle. Don’t miss it. There’s a tea house inside but it’s currently closed. Maybe bring or apply before coming some bug repellent, otherwise you’ll probably get bitten. Our tickets to the castle included the entrance to the gardens, and I believe most do.

We visited the garden on a saturday in autumn right after we went to himeji castle. Just like the castle, the garden felt extremely crowded. Most of the flowers and ponds in the garden are nicely arranged and well maintained. However, due to it not being one open garden but it being separated into multiple smaller "compartments", we didn't get the calm, serene feeling we usually got at other gardens and parks in japan.

Very beautiful garden that is easy to navigate and even has a recommend route to finish efficiently. Lots of wonderful fall foliage at this time and lots of ponds and small streams. There is the option for a combo ticket with himeji castle, so I recommend that option so you can hit both on the same trip

Marvelous gardens near Himeji-jo castle. Several separate Gardens linked together with great landscapes, glimpses of Hinegi castle on the distance and lovely water features with a vast variety of koo fish connected by walkway stones. Theybalso had an impressive ichibana exhibit when we visited.

While Himeji Castle is of course impressive and worth seeing, for me the real highlight was Kōko-en Garden right next to it. It’s beautifully designed, with different sections that each have their own character — ponds, small waterfalls, and perfectly kept greenery everywhere. Peaceful, scenic, and a perfect place to slow down after visiting the castle.

I have been to Himeji Castle 4 times, and I had never been to Koko-en. This time I made the effort to explore the gardens and I was impressed. I took one of my favourite photos here, with a golden Koi causing the water to glisten in the sun.

Very pretty Japanese garden, which looks amazing during our November visit due to the autumnal colours. It's much bigger than I expected, with several sections to walk around. There was a tea room where you enjoy green tea and sweets, but we didn't have time for this so not sure what it was like. If you get a combined ticket for this garden with the Castle ticket, it's only ¥50 extra than the castle alone!!

Himeji Castle is one of those places that really lives up to the photos. The white castle looks absolutely striking as you walk up to it, and the grounds are peaceful and easy to enjoy. The inside involves a bit of climbing with steep staircases, but it’s worth it to see the wooden interior and the views from the top. It’s a genuinely pleasant place to visit, beautiful, well-kept, and full of history. Tips: 1. We entered around 9 AM, and that turned out to be a great decision. The crowds were still light, so it was easy to walk around and take photos. 2. Spending about 1.5 hour feels just right without rushing.

Amazing historic castle. Do not miss this one- very beautiful and the grounds are just as pretty. I went right at opening and there were no crowds but as I was leaving it was starting to get busier so go earlier to avoid them. Spend the extra 50 yen when buying your ticket online to get access to the gardens as it’s well maintained and beautiful, with koi fish in many of the ponds! One of the highlights of my Japan trip.

Are you looking to get you steps in? This castle has you covered. Go back in time and imagine the sights and sounds, the views the people before you must have seen from each different level and window. The timber work was amazing. If you are in the area it's worth a look. We got the pass to the garden as well. Great afternoon.

Himeji castle is well preserved. Its easily accessible from Himeji station by a walk of 20 mins. Entry fee for the castle is 1000 yen but since I had JR west pass, i got a discount of 20%. I visited during September month, the weather was bit hot. Post entry gate, I was lucky to find a free english tour guide Hideyo, she explained the history of Himeji castle and should all around the castle with minute details. I really enjoyed visiting this castle

Please Read below if you are wanting to learn about this castle and what it meant to japan. This castle is amazing and is one of the BEST places I had seen in 2 weeks. My experience is 2 part, the first part was the castle which is awesome. The second part was you NEED is a guide to take you through the gardens and castle. It was very inexpensive for the history lesson I got about the castle. This was the most important part. Our guide Nobu, was amazing and was by far the thing that made the tour so amazing. Please use Nobu who has a ge eral passion and love for Meiji castle.

A must see in the Osaka / Kobe region. Impressive Castle ! Nice: You can climb up (steep staircases) the whole casle tower (need to take off shoes). When buying tickets: Do buy the combination ticket with Koko-en garden. Several themed Japanese gardens, some of them are a revelation in the art of gardening. Garden is some 200 m left of the main entrance (street)

Himeji Castle was amazing. It is best to visit in the morning getting as much natural light as possible. It is possible to do a trip to Himeji as well as going further to Hiroshima on the same day using the Shinkansen. Be warn it will be an early morning to do both trips in a day. From Himeji Train Station it is an easy 10-15 minute walk to the castle grounds. There are many shops and places to grab a quick breakfast or lunch depending what time of the day you arrive. Wear comfortable shoes since it's a gradual incline to the main castle keep. Be very aware you will have to climb steep staircases once inside the castle. We recommend bringing portable rechargeable fans, because you will sweat climbing the stairs. The views are very beautiful from the top. This excursion can be done in under 4 hours from the train station, up to the castle, and back to go to the next destination.

Lovely views from this ancient ruin. You can take the cheap shuttle bus between the station and the ruins. It only runs each hour. Be prepared for lots of steep walking. Allow a couple of hours minimum.

I left at 08:00 and arrived around 10:00. Beautiful sights, but didn’t get the sea of clouds. If you want to see them, get there at 06:00 to 06:30!

I’d recommend going to observation deck 1 on the opposite side of the castle instead. From there you can see a panoramic view of the castle surrounded by clouds. If you hike all the way to the top you can also see the sea of clouds over town in the early morning. You don’t need to come before sunrise to see this effect! Photos in this review are from observation deck 1.

Take a bus from Takeda station to the Takeda ruin stop and you have to take a 20mins hike up to the entrance of the ruins where you can purchase your ticket with a machines. Recommended that you bring 1000yen or coins for the bus rides, bigger notes are okay for the ticket but not the bus. Be prepared to walk alot up and also inside the ruins, to exit the ruins it’s using stairs but they are pretty steep. We came abit too early for the cherry blossom and too late timing for the clouds, so you can plan your trip for it but expected a crowd at those peak periods too.

Absolutely fantastic spot that reminds me of Machu Picchu on its ruins layout and perched atop a mountain. The bus from the visitor centre departs with quite a wide gap in timing so do time it well if you are visiting, else walking or taxi is the only option. The bus takes you near, but still an uphill walk for 900m is still required. As you walk uphill, there's a turn left where the signboard says not to enter from, and that is actually the exit point. Technically if you go through there, then it's free entry? As there is no ticket checks within the ruins itself. However, the ticket price is not at all hefty and I will recommend that we all do our part to preserve this fantastic monument. At the end of the monument, you can see a sweeping view of the Takeda town below.

A few days ago, I travelled with my family to visit the "Takeda Castle Ruins" in Asago-shi, Hyōgo-Prefecture-Japan. It's a bit of a drive from Kyoto, about 21/2 hours to be precise. There are a few options available on maps, and we opted for driving most of it through the countryside. Time-wise, it hardly made a difference. About halfway in, we stopped at an udon restaurant for lunch. Our first stop was high up on NR 163; it's a winding road to the top and easily accessible by car. On the top, there is a spot from where you can see Takeda Castle Ruins. The distance to the castle is just under 3.00 kilometres or 1.8 miles. I used a 70-200 telelens with a 2X extender. The weather was not at its best, with slight rain and dark clouds; still, it was a fun experience. Of course, the prime time to shoot a legendary picture is in late autumn when there is fog in the morning. There is a second spot that is very popular with photographers. Located on the opposite side of the castle, you'll need to hike up between 10 and 30 minutes. There are three observation spots, with number one the hot place and the highest. Because it was getting dark, I opted for the third observation spot. The shooting distance to the castle is just under 2.00 kilometres or 1.2 miles. There is a path, but it is steep and rugged. This area is famous for its clusters of cherry trees during the sakura season. I definitely would like to go back in autumn to see the castle in a sea of clouds.

Took the train from Osaka station, it was quite a long train journey but the views from Takeda castle ruins made me forget about it. A special memory, lots of green and beautiful views of the landscape. Very powerful spot for the spiritually aware. For the fit like me, you can run up it in 20mins. Great exercise & the beauty at the top will rewarding. Best time to visit I was told was really early morning spring, when the whole mountain is covered in mist.

A nice spot to get a good view of Tokushima city. I recommend driving up, if you have a car, but the lift is fun and worth trying at least once. Also good for an easy hike!

Nice view over the city and mountains, I also showed interest in the many antenna towers delivering the people connectivity and radio TV

I was a little frustrated with myself only staying one day in Tokushima as I didn't think a day would be enough. I can safely say that my Bizan's views are priceless and are worth it's weight in gold. Absolutely breathtaking.

Local beloved mountain, great view from the top also has a small cafe on the top. Lots of nature on the top to walk around. Accessible by ropeway and also by car

It is a good view on a fine day and despite the modest height offers a large field of view.

STU48 brough me here. I love it. Hope someday can go here

Nice lookout spot

Visiting the **Otsuka Museum of Art** was such a cool experience! It's not your usual museum—everything is **ceramic reproductions** of famous Western masterpieces, but they're all **life-sized**, so it feels like you're touring the world's best galleries in one place. The **Sistine Chapel replica** was mind-blowing—you can even **take photos** (which you usually can't in real museums!). My favorite was Van Gogh’s *Sunflowers*—so vibrant! The museum is huge (4km of galleries!), so wear comfy shoes. A bit pricey (¥3,300 for adults), but totally worth it for art lovers!

It has 5 floors of remade art. Its not the real thing. But still fun to observe and see with your own eyes. I appreciate they have arrows on the ground to point which direction you should go. They have many cafes and places to sit and enjoy the view. I appreciate how many chairs were available to sit and relax in. I was there for 5 hours. I would have loved to stay longer. But with time constraints we had to head out. I do appreciate the lighting and the recreation. It makes you want to see the work in person. I hope I can do so one day. I would plan this as a whole day event. But if you are with kids that might not be possible. The Naruto whirlpool tours boat are near by if you want to find something different. Enjoy and take your time.

The Otsuka Museum of Art is a huge Museum that cannot be covered in one day and needs few days to see everything. The collection of reproductions from all periods, starting from ancient history through midevil, Renessainc, Baroque, Impressionist period, expressionist, until modern art is amazing. Highly recommended to any art lover!

Excellent museum with a lot of interesting painting and presentation. 3300 yen of entrance fees was worth. There were a lot of exhibits and easily 4 hours could be spent here. There is a museum parking located (600m awat) near the naruto sightseeing boat parking. The museum is courteous enough to provide free shuttle vice versa.

This is my favorite museum in Japan. Everything is a reproduction made by transferring ceramic two boards. You can take pictures, you can shoot video, you could even touch them.

This is a marvellous museum. If you visit Japan, do make an effort to visit this highly unique museum too. It is like this: whilst in Japan, you can tour the most historic and famous tourist destinations of Greece, Italy, Spain and others, all at once. How? They have recreated these places with astonishing technology. The technique of applying every colour to tiles – meaning any colour or image can be depicted on tiles. For instance, the most famous Impressionist paintings appear utterly lifelike, yet they are actually projections onto tiles. Visitors are even encouraged to touch them, revealing they are neither originals nor actual paintings. It is truly astonishing what modern technology can achieve. I repeat, this museum is an absolute must-visit. You will not be disappointed. After all, you can experience famous sights from around the world all in one place.

It is a MASSIVE museum with thousands of famous paintings in the world. It would take half a day to explore the entire area. These paintings are not the original ones but very close replicas. They offer some museum tours and it is very helpful for understanding the background of the works. I am not sure if they offer tours in English or other languages, but I think at least they provide an audio tool that explains them. The museum doesn’t just have a great replicas that made from pottery. It also replicates surrounding areas like caves and architecture transporting visitors to different places. Additionally, there is a lovely cafe where you can enjoy some food and drinks related to the arts and the area.

Visited the Naruto Whirlpools and enjoyed the views from the hilltop observation area. The whirlpools were fascinating to watch as the tides created those powerful swirling currents below. It’s a great spot for photos and to appreciate nature’s force from a safe distance. The viewing area is well maintained with clear signage and facilities. Even without taking a boat tour, it’s definitely worth a visit if you’re nearby.

The Naruto Whirlpools only appear during high or low tide. Be sure to check the tide times to catch the whirlpools at their best. We paid the ticket price to walk under the bridge to catch the whirlpools from above. Sadly we missed the peak of the ebb tide. We did see the whirlpools from the bridge surface a few days before and found them to be a spectacular sight. Take the time to walk the observation areas on and off the Onaruto Bridge to get a true sense of just how huge the tidal surge can be. At the southern observatory there are cafes and snack stands to enjoy as well.

One of the amazing experiences I’ve ever had. They offer like a Uzushio forecast that expects how possible it is to see whirlpool each hour. When I visited it showed the level would be not so high, but it was pretty sunny so I took the next boat. There are 2 types of boats you could take, one with an underwater view and the other that is bigger and not necessary to book in advance. I took the one with an underwater view and was amazing!! The whirlpool was not big just as the forecast said but I was so excited to see small whirlpools. The staff told me that the diameter of it would be about 20 meters if it’s the perfect time. Just seeing a big bridge was nice. I highly recommend this activity.

Was looking forward to seeing this amazing natural phenomenon. On hols from Oz. Travelled a couple of hours to get there. Paid a fee to access the observation deck from the bridge. My advice is do your homework before you go, its crucial otherwise in my opinion it's a waste of time going. Read that the whirlpools are best viewed at high and low tides and at certain times of the year. We didn't tick any of those boxes and it was very apparent. Was still a pleasant outing looking at the Naruto Strait.

A must see. located in the Naruto Strait near Awaji Island in Japan, which have speeds of 26 km/h (16 mph). A whirlpool is a body of rotating water produced by opposing currents or a current running into an obstacle.

Very exciting whirlpool view. The museum where I have learnt a lot. Good place to go. Buy one ticket so you will visit the museum and see the whirlpool closely.

Tip top place. Choose time to match tidal flows

Had a great experience. It is a must visit place and you will be out of the world. Visit during summer for best experience of clear water swimming, beautiful sunset, illumination at night (after 7p.m) can carry tent but no barbecue. Take a chair lift while going & coming back to View land for best experience.

Good place to get the picture but nothing much I recommend for tourists. That picture is worth 1000 yen going up the mountain. If you enjoy small scale carnival style rides, you probably will spend more time there. They got puddin and some present you can buy, but that’s pretty much it. Pay attention to the monorail time table, it goes up specific interval and if you miss that you will need to wait 30-ish minutes for next. Of course you can choose the lift but folks might be afraid of such gondola style way up.

We did a daytrip to Amanohashidate and Ine on our vacation in Osaka. We were blessed with good weather and the places we visited were not crowded that day. We rode the monorail up to the viewdeck and the chair lift going down. We had a family photo with the breathtaking view of the sandbar for a fee. My daughters also did the lucky pottery throwing. There were a lot of things to do at Viewland. Ride the cycle-car, view Amanohashidate upside down from between your legs, walk at the viewing sky path and some children activities. We really had fun. Please note and make sure to check the weather before you go on this trip so you will enjoy it more.

Came here as part of our roadtrip around Japan. One of the wonder spots, and a very nice, little amusement park, clean, quiet and well priced, the chair lift was also really fun and nice to use. And the views were lovely!

The sky lift was definitely an experience for me being scared of heights and no seatbelts lol. Beautiful view and cute things to do at the top such as peddling a coaster type bike, merry go round, shooting etc.

This place truly delivers one of Japan's three best views—the "Flying Dragon" scenery is amazing. Crucial Tip: Go early ! I was there around 10:30, it was still peaceful enough with almost nobody there at the start, making for perfect photos and quiet enjoyment of the landscape. However, the crowds built up quickly within an hour, making the viewing decks congested.

Viewland – A Cute Amusement Park with Amazing Views! What a great idea to have a mini amusement park at the top of a hill, where both kids and adults can enjoy themselves! It was so much fun that I completely missed seeing the sandbar… Guess I’ll just have to come back another time!

Amanohashidate truly lives up to its name — “the bridge to heaven.” Stretching gracefully across the blue waters of Miyazu Bay, this 3.6-kilometer sandbar lined with thousands of pine trees feels like something out of a painting. Whether you walk, cycle, or view it from above, every angle offers a sense of calm and wonder. From the southern hill, the view from Amanohashidate View Land is breathtaking — the sandbar appears like a floating path connecting sky and sea. Locals say to look at it upside down through your legs (matanozoki) to see it as a “bridge to heaven,” and it’s easy to see why. The rotating bridge adds a charming touch, gracefully turning to let boats pass, symbolizing the gentle pace of life here. A speed boat ride beneath it adds a spark of excitement, giving a fresh perspective of the pine-covered stretch and the surrounding mountains. Quiet temples like Chion-ji, cozy cafes, and the peaceful rhythm of the sea make Amanohashidate not just a scenic spot, but a place that soothes the soul.

I went with my baby and toddler, absolutely worth the visit. We arrived at 2:30pm which is quite late for this location since the attractions close at 5pm. There is not enough time to enjoy and walk around the place if you arrive after 12pm. You can put your baby or toddler on your lap and ride the chair lift up the hill. We took a ride drom kyoto straight to amanohashidate station costing a fortune for 3 adults and 1 child reserved seats (36400 yen) round trip.

I went for a day trip. I would like to say don’t double think about visiting the city, go there and don’t think about it. The city alone is amazing and calm for a walk. You will feel the peaceful vip on the street. There is a nice beach there so prepare for it if you wish to get wet. You can rent a bicycle and drive throw the island.

LOVED it, I very highly recommend going here. The views were amazing and there are many activities to do as well. There’s a tiny cafe for quick refreshments too. Definitely take the cable chair up and down, it’s safe and a great experience.

Perfect place to stand on the dry land between fresh and sea waters. You will enjoy the best of both worlds and peaceful walk. This place fill with nature and peaceful, you will enjoy the walk and cycling .

This is the one of the best place in Japan …. People whoever are visiting Osaka should definitely plan a day tour to Amanohashidate the locations are very much amazing …. There will a cable chair lift and monorail to go up it is highly recommend to go with the chair lift because have good clicks and advance booking is always a better option still you have a wait time for sitting on the chair lift but worth visiting this place and there are rides also which is also gives a good experience

If you’re coming with your family and just want a relaxing walk to see a traditional Japanese village, this place is nice to visit. But for young and energetic couples, it might be a bit boring.

The view here is beautiful, with flower fields spread across a hill overlooking the sea and the Akashi Kaikyō Bridge in the distance. It is not a full sea of blooms and not large in scale, but it has its own charm. I visited in late July and literally melted walking under the scorching sun, even with an umbrella. Parking costs 200 yen, and admission is free. There is also a restaurant and a souvenir shop selling Awaji produce and local specialties.

After a quick stop at the Aikashi-Kaikyo Bridge, we decided to visit this flower park. The park was well-maintained and wonderfully peaceful. The flowers were beautiful. We spent an hour in the park. Parking was cheap (200 yen) and the restrooms were very clean. The park itself wasn't expensive, but the bridge toll made it a short and expensive visit (2,410 yen times 2).

I love the view of this place. Beautiful scenery and they have a restaurant and museum located in this place! The park is huge and the view is spectacular! I have seen lots of tourists coming by bus. And you need a car to get here but the entrance is free!

Lovely place to visit. Beautifully kept flower gardens, easy to park and relaxing place to walk around and just enjoy the view and the wonderful atmsphere. The cafe has some nice choices of food and the omiyage shop can tempt you with some of my favourite onion soup packs and other nice offerings.

Such a beautiful spot. You only need to pay for parking as the gardens are free. The views are amazing and the flowers seasonal. We always go during the himawari (sunflowers) blossoming.

Not really alot of flower but maybe I come on the wrong timing.

1st time to this page. Nice scenery and also had super fresh seafood & sake

🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 Amazing Shopping Experience at Kobe-Sanda Premium Outlets! If you love shopping for great deals in a beautiful and relaxing setting, this is the place to go! Kobe-Sanda Premium Outlets offers a wide selection of both international and Japanese brands at discounted prices. The layout of the outlet is spacious, clean, and feels like a mini resort, making it enjoyable to walk around even if you're not planning to buy much. There are plenty of well-known brands like Nike, Adidas, Coach, Kate Spade, Onitsuka Tiger, and even luxury options like Prada and Gucci. I was especially happy to find great deals at Uniqlo and The North Face. The atmosphere is calm and not too crowded, even on weekends. The food court has many delicious options, and there are clean restrooms, helpful staff, and lockers for storage if needed. The views of the surrounding mountains also add to the relaxing vibe. Access from Kobe or Osaka is easy via bus or train, and there’s even a shuttle from Sanda Station. Highly recommended for tourists and locals alike! Be sure to come early and wear comfortable shoes — you'll want to spend hours here!

Easy access car parking, many shops. not much people & the food court is quite good. There is a park for kids

​I had a great time at this outlet! It's huge and has an awesome mix of well-known international brands and popular Japanese shops. The layout is really beautiful and relaxed. Pro-tip: head to the information center for a special coupon code to get an extra 5% off (bring your passport for tax free)

This is a large, outdoor outlet with a huge variety of goods and brands. The weekend can get a little crowded. Parking is free. If you like shopping, this is a great place for you, but be prepared for a lot of walking. There is also a very big Aeon mall right across the street, so you can easily spend the whole day in this area.

I decided to take a taxi from my hotel to Kobe Sanda Premium Outlets, which took about an hour. The outlets were spacious with no waiting lines and a great variety of stores to browse. I especially appreciated the lack of crowds, which made for a relaxed shopping experience. In terms of pricing, I wasn’t sure if there were significant savings compared to premium outlets in California, even with the tax credit. Language barriers were a slight challenge as many shop staff couldn’t assist in English, but Google Translate was helpful. The Moncler store stood out with its wide variety of items, clearly designed for Japan’s colder weather—much more diverse than what you’d find in California. Dining options were excellent. I had ramen with fried rice, and both were absolutely delicious. For the taxi ride back to the hotel, I learned you need to call for one at stop #4, and it usually arrives within 15 minutes. Overall, it’s a great outlet for stress-free shopping and tasty food, though some additional savings would have made it perfect!

🚶‍♀️ Step-by-Step Directions: 1. Inside JR Shin-Osaka Station, go through the Central Gate (中央改札口). This is the 3rd floor. 2. Take escalator to 2nd floor. Head toward Exit 4 3. After going out Exit 4, you’ll walk across a short pedestrian bridge. 4. At the end of the bridge, go down the stairs. Once you reach the bottom, make a slight right turn and continue walking straight. 5. In a minute or two, you’ll see a covered bus stop on your left with signs that say: 神戸三田プレミアム・アウトレット行き (Kobe-Sanda Premium Outlets)

There were definitely plenty of shops and the place looked very clean. The prices are not super low unless there is a sale, but it can be worth it if you find something you really like. All of the food spots and the outlets were packed, so expect a lot of people around.

Big mall near Kobe harbor with lots of shops and restaurants. We went there to eat. I ate my food with a beautiful sea view.

A smaller mall compared to the bigger cities in Japan but it had all the essentials. Designed nicely and it had a very contemporary feel. Love the glass ceilings as well!

Very cozy and safe area to visit

Very nice mall close to the Harbor. They have a good selection of stores for those interested in shopping. There's also a cinema on 5F. Love the glass roof as it gives a lot of natural lighting.

20250324 Lots of shops. A big book store, huge sports shop and more. Just never have enough time for this area

Great place for a relaxing day with many activities for the kids.

I ate this disgusting sushi restaurant in umie today. Corrupt sea urchin refused to admit that I had to pay the bill in the end. The chef appeared at our repeated request and reluctantly ate the stinky sea urchin, but they claimed it was still fresh.

Arrived in the evening—most shops were already closed, but the Chinese-style architecture and the soft glow of red lanterns still wrapped the street in a rich, exotic charm 🎐✨ I can only imagine how vibrant it must feel during the day. Next time, I’m definitely coming earlier—how about a steaming bowl of beef noodle soup and a classic milk tea? 🥡🧋

Historical and scenic but I tried some food and was not too impressed. It's a great place to take some photos and enjoy the ambiance. It's a pity that most of the shops sell the same thing probably from the same factory. I found one shop that seemed to make their things from scratch. The dumplings were not bad in taste but the skin was under needed so there was a lack of gluten development. I make them some and dumplings at home so I know what I'm talking about.

We visited during the day and it was a bit busy, but not overwhelming. We just walked around and didn’t buy anything, but the area itself is really cute. There are so many food stalls, restaurants, and little shops, so it’s definitely a place to explore if you like street food or souvenirs. The atmosphere is lively and colorful, with traditional decorations and lanterns everywhere. Even if you don’t eat, it’s fun to stroll through and soak up the vibe. Overall, it was okay — nice for a short visit, especially if you’re already in Kobe city. Tips for visitors: - Easy to reach on foot from Motomachi Station - Can get busy during peak lunch hours, but manageable - Great for photos and just soaking up the Chinatown atmosphere

Was here in July recently. Chinatown itself is nothing much. But the walk through the Motomachi shopping street from one end near Motomachi station to the other end near Nishi-motomachi station is worth visiting, buying some stuff and trying some snacks Also stopped for lunch in a restaurant within.

I enjoyed this more than the Yokohama Chinatown. The location is also perfect as it's just in front of the Motomachi station, but a leisurely walk to Sannomiya station is a great option if you want to visit the numerous stores along the way.

Lots of street food and gets busier once it gets dark. Not just popular with tourists but local Japanese as well. Short walk from Kobe Harbourland and Kobe Ropeway. Not as big as Yokohama Chinatown but worth a visit if you are in Kobe.

It's my first time visiting a Chinatown in Japan and the experience is like visiting a sanitized version of Binondo, the eldest Chinatown in the world, located in the Philippines. There seems to be an ongoing activity since the Chinatown is packed with tourists. I found the food just okay. Perhaps, I was spoiled by the food in Binondo, but the food here is very mid. Not authentic based on my tastebuds . An okay experience.

Wakayama Castle isn’t as famous as Osaka Castle, but that doesn’t mean it’s any less stunning! The ticket’s cheaper, the view from the top is incredible, and since it’s not packed with tourists, the staff here are extra warm and friendly. I almost never tip anywhere, but when I saw a little donation box for the castle, I suddenly felt like giving them all my money 😂

A relatively small castle compared to other famous castles in Japan. However, it has hidden gems all around. May it be the local neighborhood zoo, the mystical moss covered garden, or the local shop in front of the castle that we spent more money than a famous department store lol. We love local products there so much that we almost can't leave the place. The castle itself is beautiful and the walk is quite easy. There are artifacts from medieval Japan you can check out or even lift it as well.

We need to hike a bit to get to the castle compound. It was not a very big one but still impressive. The collection inside were also interesting. We can visit the deck and enjoy the view of Wakayama city and the sea from up there with a strong breeze. On the ground, they also have a small shop for souvenirs. 410¥ admissionfor adult was very worth to visit.

Good landmark for the first time in Wakayama. The museum will tell you the history here. The view is pretty good when you get the tickets to the top of it. And there is a zoo inside it. The animals are cute.

The Wakayama Castle site is defintely less crowded than those in Kyoto. The whole area was larger tha I thought. Too bad it was a rainy day when I visited in May. There is quite a bit of walking and stairs up to the main castle.

At first time, I hesitated whether to go up or not because it was a concrete restoration Tenshu(天守閣). However, when I went up to the Tenshu and looked down at the view, I thought it was beautiful and the interior exhibits were good, so I was glad to come up. I recommend this castle.

Absolutely deserves 5 stars! The view from Wakayama Castle is simply stunning — you can see the river, the sea, and the mountains all at once. It’s peaceful, beautiful, and totally worth the visit.

Visited during off-peak so d shopping is leisure n comfy. Many big brands around n there r different bargains to attract. Visit for d bargains n not a specific brand/model, it beats shopping at d malls. There r 2 food courts which offer affordable food options JPY 1000-2000, including 7-11. Walkway between station n buildings aren't covered. Will need brolly during rainy season.

Parking is 3 hours free for 2000 yen spending. Lots of shops. International brands. Discount is around 30 percent. There is sea side strip to see the view. Pretty nice before heading to the airport l.

It is a very nice outlet with lots of shopping opportunities. I was able to shop nicely at furla, cosmetics company store, versace and swarowski. They had good deals on top of the sale prices. Would highly recommend.

20251031 - premium outlet mall that can be accessed by train or shuttle bus from the airport. Besides both local and discounted brands, there are also other normal stores nearby. Most shops offer good discount, and more with the discount voucher you can scan at the information counter. Managed to get some exclusive design bags that are only available in Rinku at good prices.

Rinku Town Premium Outlet is much bigger than I expected and such an easy place to shop. They have a good mix of popular labels and smaller niche brands, and the prices are quite reasonable — you can easily spend the whole day here without getting bored. The food court is also worth a stop. A simple rule works perfectly here: if you see a long line, the food is almost guaranteed to be good. I happened to visit during the Osaka Art Fireworks, and it made the experience even more memorable. The weather by the seaside was cool and refreshing, and the fireworks were stunning. If you’re lucky enough to catch the show while you’re here, don’t hesitate — it’s absolutely worth watching.

Rinku Preium outlet is a fantastic shopping destination near the Kansai International Airport. The outlet mall is huge and offers an impressive variety of stores from high end luxury brands to popular sports labels, along with shops selling kitchenware, household appliances, cosmetics. It’s an excellent place for shopping and casual browsing as well. The dinning options are varied and the view of Osaka Bay add a beautiful scenic touch to the shopping experience.

Premium Outlet shpping centre in Rinku town. 5 minute bus ride from Kansai (KIX) airport. There is a bus that leaves either way every hour and can be caught for 300 yen. About a 8 min walk from closest train station, passing through another outlet centre. Mall is spread over 2 levels and 2 buildings. Has alot of local and foreign branded stores. Has free wifi, small food court and another area containing several restaurants. Various discount vouchers can be obtained from their website. QR codes on posters throughout the centre can be scanned to access the website.

This is easily one of the best aquariums we’ve visited. It took us about 3 hours to walk through and explore, and we got to see a wide variety of aquatic species. They also offer a stamp rally, which was a fun bonus. Be sure to bring a blank passport book or some paper so you can collect all the stamps. It's a nice little keepsake to remember your trip.

We loved our visit here! Lots of animals who seem very well cared for. There is a huuuge central tank with sharks and other fish in which you can see from various angles - it is great to see these big fish have so much space to move and swim. We enjoyed the kids stamp rally here too which was a nice extra. The gift shop was also lovely and very well priced.

As we go on the weekend, we have to buy the ticket at the counter as it was unavailable on klook apps. we got here around 2 hours earlier than opening time and start queing at 9am before they opened on 9.30am. We are the first in line so the wait time are not that long. however, coming later than this might make you wait even longer. the attraction was super good. every window were super cleaned except for penguin area, not sure why tho.. nonetheless, we can see all animal super clear and nice. we started the visit with sea otter, however the otter was lazy as they are still sleeping despite the opening hour 🤣🤣 the seal were super cute and interactive, the dolphin weee also very playful hahaha. the shark looks very mesmerizing and wow, super elegant! oh ya! please dont forget to check out the sunfish as well, so cuteeeee! all area outdoor and indoor was super clean including the toilet, love that very much! all in all, love the visit so much and please dont forget to end your visit with riding the ferris wheel! very much recommended! <3

The Osaka Aquarium is HUGE! I was told to visit it if I was ever in Osaka & I'm glad I did. It was very busy during the day, so we opted to get tickets later in the evening. On one hand, glad we went later on, because it was still busy with people & families. On the other hand, we saw later when the feeding times were & gathered that was one of the reasons why it had peak times. The animals were still relatively active when we went in the evening. There is a wide variety of nautical life & it was beautifully laid out in terms of walking. Seeing the lively animals, regardless of it not being feeding time, they seemed happy in their environments. Osaka Aquarium really cares about the environment of the creatures & continuously works on providng the best possible. It certainly shows in the animals lively behaviour. I left feeling positive about this place. It also had a great gift shop with many of the sea creatures in cute plushy form, so you can take home a little creature of your favorite! There's also themed plates, cups, Keychains & snacks. I highly reccomend visiting Osaka Aquarium. A+++

ABSOLUTELY A MUST. I’ve been to a few Aquariums. This one exhibits sea life along the “ring of fire” of the world, meaning along the coasts of land that line the Pacific Ocean. They had animals from fresh water to artic waters (5 degrees Celsius). Pro tip 1: get your tickets in advance as each time-slot does have limited entries. My family of 4 went on November 14th at 2pm, we thought it is low tourist season but there was still quite a line for same-day tickets. Waiting in like might have taken ~30 minutes and there was a sign that was updated that they just sold out thru 3pm. By luck, I tried to buy same-day tickets via online and was able to grab enough for 3:15pm slot. There is also a small mall so visitors can walk around, shop, eat. There are also other activities such as boat ride, Ferris wheel (maybe 8–10 stories high), so come and hangout more in the area. There are storage lockers at the entrance. Bring $400-1000yen, depending on size. Paying with coins worked best for us. Pro tip 2: Visitors enter in droves every 15 minutes, so the first few exhibits are VERY crowded. The building is built around the main tank in the center of the building which holds giant sharks, stingrays, and whales. The exhibits begin at the top of the tank and spiral downwards so I I suggest you immediately walk past the first 3-5 stations (or floors). Don’t worry you won’t miss too much as there’s still plenty more to enjoy along the little nooks towards the lower floors. There are even benches to sit and watch up against the tank. We planned to spend 1 hour here but ended up enjoying it for 2 hours at a very leisurely pace.

Best aquarium ever. Prebook tickets if possible, or get timed entry tickets at the venue. If you have a waiting time, enjoy delicious food at the Tempozan Market area and maybe do shopping too. Coming to the aquarium, though there is high crowd, it tends to clear very soon and youll get a glimpse of every tank.All tanks are neatly maintained for crystal clear view of the aquatic lifeforms. The central tank is huge and houses multiple types of sharks and the whalesharks (star of the show). We spent 3 hours at the aquarium and 2 hours at the tempozan marketplace. Also, there is a giant ferriswheel nearby for breathtaking view of Osaka port area.

Fascinating! Great collection of various species. Very interesting! We didn't have a reservation, so we had to wait around 1,5h to enter. Good point that you don't have to wait all this time in the queue (they sell tickets for specific time slot and the queue for that is very fast, I think we spent less than 10 minutes to buy the tickets). There is a market nearby(~3 mins by feet) where you can have lunch while waiting. Sometimes it gets a bit crowded inside, especially in front of the aquariums with some interesting kind of fish but if you wait just a bit, you can fully enjoy the view :)

Universal Studios Japan is a wonderful park for both kids and parents. The atmosphere is vibrant and full of energy—the entertainers and staff may look exhausted, but they continuously smile, dance, and greet guests, pouring their energy into the experience. However, the park can get quite crowded. Unless you opt for a VIP pass, expect to wait around 40 minutes for most attractions. As an American theme park located in Japan, the entry fee is about $90, and while many experiences inside are free, you'll need to budget an additional $90 if you want to access the Mario section (which is really aimed at die-hard fans—not necessarily for everyone). Additionally, if you plan to eat, budget around $50 on average for food (one meal). One thing I found disappointing was the lack of affordable costumes or hats. Offering items around $5-$8 for costumes or Mario hats would enhance the park's atmosphere and foster a greater sense of community among visitors. It would also be a nice touch for guests to choose their favorite movie or franchise and receive a corresponding badge. This could create a sense of unity, similar to the houses at Hogwarts, and enrich the overall experience. A highlight of my visit was the mobile app, which conveniently shows wait times for attractions. It's user-friendly and features two mini-games in PWA format—very fun! I believe the park could benefit from even more interactive quests for visitors to enjoy. (For example, searching for objects while traveling in a park to fill out a badge) Overall, I give Universal Studios Japan a 4 out of 5. It would be great to see more affordable souvenirs available to help visitors feel like a part of the studio, as the audience and fans are just as much a part of the movie success as the actors and characters themselves.

WOW. Exceeded expectations!! Tips for a smooth day at USJ: 1. Bring at least one 100 Yen coin for lockers (you’ll get it back). Change machines are available if needed. 2. Arrive early—about 45 minutes before opening—for the rope drop. 3. Hit Flying Dinosaur and the Hollywood rides first before crowds build. 4. Small snacks seem fine to bring in. Pack an empty water bottle to refill throughout the day. NOTE: There are a coiple convenience stores right off the train. 5. Must-do: Nintendo World! Even if just browsing, splurge on the Light-Up Star popcorn purse and a souvenir drink bottle. 6. If budget allows, buy an Express Pass—it makes a huge difference. 7. There's more variety to eat outside of the park, even a Shake Shack! The rest of the park: - Food is fun but mixed—the turkey leg was my standout favorite. - Plenty of characters to meet and endless photo ops. - Transit is simple: just follow the crowds. - The park and all bathrooms are clean spotless, well-organized, and the staff are incredibly warm. They even clap when you return from rides, which adds a joyful touch. Final thought: USJ is a place to enjoy to the fullest—lean into the atmosphere, savor the details, and let the day feel cinematic.

We visited USJ on November 6th (Thursday, weekday) and enjoyed our time there. We purchased express passes for 4 attractions (Flying Dinosaur/Hollywood Dream, Jaws/Jurassic Park, Forbidden Journey, and Mario Kart) and it really saved us time. However, it’s worth mentioning that if you have evening slots for designated zones/attractions, you don’t need to come early like we did. We had a slot for Forbidden Journey at 18:30 and Nintendo World at 20:00, and arrived at the park at 11:00. There was almost no waiting time to enter the park, up to 10 minutes maximum. Honestly, we visited all the interesting attractions with our pass within several hours and were just wandering around waiting for our time slots, even though we stood in a 40-minutes standard queue for Hollywood dream. In our opinion, only these attractions are worth visiting and waiting in queue: Flying Dinosaur, Hollywood Dream, Forbidden Journey (this attraction surprised us a lot!). Mario Kart and Jaws didn’t meet our expectations and honestly can be easily skipped. Also, if you don’t want to pay extra for express passes, you may want to visit popular zones like Nintendo World, Harry Potter and Kong in the evening. At 8pm there were almost no crowds in the Nintendo and Kong zones, and waiting time for attractions without passes was about 20-30 minutes. Though we generally enjoyed our experience, I deducted one star for overpriced food and merch. If you visit the Harry Potter Studio in Tokyo as well, consider purchasing your merch there — it’s way less expensive. Also, I brought my wand purchased at Warner Bros. Studio in Tokyo to the Harry Potter zone to try out some wand interactions, but it only worked with wands purchased at USJ, which felt like a money drain. On the positive side, the park staff were amazing, they were extremely encouraging and created a cheerful mood for our day.

One of the best themeparks in the world, probably better than disneyland too. Would recommend prebooking your tickets a month prior for a weekday.Also, would highly recommend getting the express pass 7 to cover all the high-thrill rides. The park itself is very convinient to travel through and from anywhere in Osaka, thanks to public transport (JR and Subway). Tip - if youre not buying the express pass, head to the park enterance 1 hour before the official opening time so you can access the supernintendo world/donkey kong land for free (else you need a timed ticket which is hard to get)

I had never been to a Universal park before, and I confess I even cried with emotion when I entered. I loved the experience and the immersion in this very whimsical and cool universe. In Super Nintendo World, you truly feel like you are inside the games, and all the staff pays special attention to ensure the experience. We would find an attendant, and because it was Halloween month, we would say 'trick or treat' and receive candy or a sticker. At the end, we went to the customer service center and asked for the stamp, and the lady brought it to us on top of a beautiful red velvet cushion and even gave us a '1st time visiting' sticker. Incredible! The park was not on its busiest day, but even so, the lines were super long (up to 2 hours), but every ride was worth it. Next time, I will definitely buy the Express Pass to be able to enjoy all the attractions calmly. I loved the experience

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Universal Studios Japan is an incredible theme park with amazing attractions, immersive worlds, and some of the best entertainment you’ll find anywhere. The attention to detail in areas like Super Nintendo World and The Wizarding World of Harry Potter is outstanding, and the rides are a perfect mix of fun, thrills, and nostalgia. Crowds can be intense, and waiting times get long—especially for the most popular rides—so buying Express Passes is almost essential if you want to make the most of your day. Food options are fun and thematic, though prices are on the higher side, which is normal for major theme parks. Overall, USJ delivers a fantastic experience full of energy, creativity, and unforgettable moments. Just plan ahead and prepare for long lines.

Beyond the famous rides, what I loved most about USJ were the small details people rarely mention. The staff are incredibly friendly and really stay in character, which adds so much fun to the day. The park is very clean and well-organised, and even the queues are beautifully themed with lots of little details and props to enjoy while waiting. It’s also very family-friendly, with clear signs, helpful crew members, and easy navigation. Even the food stands are well run and thoughtfully themed. Overall, USJ’s attention to detail and amazing staff make the whole experience feel magical from start to finish. Would definitely visit again!

Awesome tourist trap with excellent views and lots of shopping. Bare in mind each block is mostly just the same couple of retailers over and over again The views of the water way is stunning and is a really great place for photo ops. Just beware of the random "characters" hanging around the bridge, the moment you take pics of/with them they will ask for money Try to head there earlier or later in the day as it gets very very busy Memorable experience and definitely somewhere to experience while in Osaka

Dotonbori is a great place to visit, the buildings, the lights, the food, the shops. It’s an attraction you’d want to visit at least once. But, it’s very very busy. You are bombarded with people trying to take photos, and can’t really stand there peacefully just to enjoy the view without trying to not be in other peoples photos. With all the shops, lights and people, it’s pretty overwhelming. And after you do see everything, you’re kind of like, “what now?” With all those cons, I still would recommend visiting. It’s fun, it’s great to visit to say you have been there, and it’s great for photos.

A huge shopping area packed with local restaurants and snack shops. International brands are easily found too. The evening lights are bright and stunning, creating a lively atmosphere. The only downside - it gets super crowded in the evening! Shops closed early at 8pm.

The heart of Osaka’s food and nightlife! Dotonbori is full of life, color, and amazing food! The bright neon lights, giant signboards, and lively atmosphere make it one of the most exciting places to visit in Osaka. You can try all the local specialties like takoyaki, okonomiyaki, and ramen while walking along the canal. Perfect for photos, food trips, and experiencing Osaka’s fun spirit. A must-visit spot both day and night!

Tourist trap.. but there is a ton to see. You don't even really need to spend money. Just soak up the scenery. Lots of shopping here as well as food. Being around the water is the cherry on top. Very crowded, obviously. It's one of those places where you have to visit, but you'll never go back again unless you're a local.

Beautiful at day and I bet it gets even better at night! Lots of 3D and 2D signage to view, many shops to go into and lots of restaurants and cafes. There is also a small riverboat service you can use (for a price, of course)! I loved seeing the Glico running man in person (he's huge) and seeing all the different signs, like for takoyaki and crab legs.

Loved every moment in Dotonbori! The neon lights, bustling streets, and endless food options create an unforgettable experience. From takoyaki to ramen, everything was delicious. It’s busy, lively, and full of character. A perfect place to soak in Osaka’s vibrant energy!

Visited Osaka Castle in autumn and really enjoyed wandering the grounds and crossing the Gokurakubashi Bridge. The atmosphere was calm and peaceful, which made the walk even nicer. From the top, the views of the cityscape were lovely and worth the climb. A nice spot to spend a few hours, though it felt more about the scenery than the exhibits inside.

Osaka Castle is absolutely stunning! The architecture, history, and views from the top are incredible. The surrounding Osaka Castle Park is beautifully maintained, spacious, and perfect for a relaxing walk. The combination of the serene park and the majestic castle makes this one of the most memorable places in Osaka. A must-visit! Also book tickets in advance or right there from Klook and avoid the queues!

Beautiful, but so crowded! Do expect a lot of people during your visit. You can also walk up and enter the castle, but expect a long wait. The grounds are clean and expansive, featuring water, like ponds, and lots of greenery. I really loved looking at this beautiful and historic area! Swing past if you have the time, I reckon dedicate at least an hour to really soak everything in.

Visiting Osaka Castle on a Sunday is definitely worth it, but it gets very crowded. The busiest hours tend to be between 11:00 AM and 2:00 PM, so the flow of people is constant. If you can buy your tickets in advance, it’s much better (not sure if it’s possible), the line for same-day tickets can take around 30 to 40 minutes, and that’s before starting the walk through the museum up to the top floor. The interior is interesting, with several exhibits on each level, and the view from the top is great, although you’ll be moving along with a lot of visitors. Outside, the castle grounds offer plenty of food options and several souvenir shops. Just note that only one of them is tax-free if you’re planning to purchase gifts. Overall, it’s a beautiful landmark and a good experience as long as you go prepared for the crowds. Tips • ⏰ Avoid 11:00 AM – 2:00 PM if you want fewer crowds. • 🎟️ Buy tickets in advance to skip the long line. • ⏳ Expect 30–40 minutes of queue for same-day entry. • 🏯 The climb to the top is steady but crowded. • 🍡 Plenty of food stalls and small shops around the castle. • 🛍️ Only one souvenir shop is tax-free. • 📸 The top floor offers the best views worth the patience.

Can’t really miss coming to the Castle if you’re in Osaka. It’s beautiful and iconic. I walked from Namba to the Castle and it allowed me to explore different neighbourhoods. I recommend buying tickets online as it can hasten your waiting time a little bit, but you still need to queue. When entering the castle, you have to decide if you go left (to the elevator) or right (the stairs). Take the stairs. They are easy to climb and on each floor you have exhibitions. Unfortunately, no photography is allowed on two of those floors. Also, I found the available bathrooms tiny. Maybe use those near the shops and cafés on your right when entering and facing the castle from the grounds. The souvenir shop has some cute gifts, such as lego-like mini Japanese shops, restaurants and facilities. I bought two for my brother who loves Lego. The views from the top are amazing and I believe it’s even better than at Umeda Sky Building. Also, visit the gardens (200 yen). They are peaceful and although you don’t find beautiful flowers there like in French gardens for example, you can take beautiful pictures of the castle from different perspectives.

Yes the castle was rebuilt in the 1930s, but it remains beautiful. The massive castle walls; however, are not recent and their size took my breath away. How such a massive castle and moat was breached in the war of unification is amazing. Visited on a weekday in November and it was pretty busy, but very manageable. Inside the large European style building there is an excellent historical timeline in English. Wonderful woman working took time to provide in depth explanations. She was an amazing asset for this site.

Impressive outside, so-so inside. That’s my impression of Osaka Castle. After seeing the majestic Nijo Castle in Kyoto, Osaka Castle feels like a bit of a letdown. The inside is a museum and it feels commercialized. The long wait for the elevator also ruins the experience for some. The only thing I really liked is the 8th floor where you can see the Osaka skyline. The surrounding gardens are also beautiful, especially in autumn. Pro-Tip: 1. Buy your ticket in advance online through Klook or Kkday. 2. Do not take the elevator. Use the stairs for the fastest access to the 8th floor.

As one of Japan's most famed landmarks and a symbol of reunification, the construction of the Osaka Castle was built in 1583 and has undergone many restorations throughout the centuries. Visitors can enjoy leisurely walks around the vast Osaka Castle Park, which offers breathtaking views, particularly during the cherry blossom period. While it's free to walk around the park, it is paid entry to your main castle tower. Just admiring the castle's grandeur from the ground was enough for us! For those who want to take photos of the castle without swarms of tourists milling around, we recommend taking photos from the side or beyond the moat.

A beautiful place to walk around — spacious, clean, and full of greenery. One thing to note is that the restrooms can be a bit hard to find, so it’s good to plan ahead. Along the paths, you’ll often see students practicing sports and plenty of people jogging, which gives the park a lively and energetic atmosphere. During my visit, there was even a ramen-themed event happening, which was a fun surprise.

The area around Osaka Tower is filled with beautiful gardens and flowering trees. There’s also a pond-like section surrounding the tower, which creates a very scenic atmosphere. It’s a lovely place to visit for both local and international visitors. When I visited during autumn, the trees were especially gorgeous with their seasonal colours. Inside Osaka Tower, you can also enter with a ticket to explore exhibits about the ruler connected to the tower’s history. You can then climb up to the observation deck at the top floor for a stunning view of the surroundings. Overall, I highly recommend visiting this place. It’s a peaceful, beautiful spot that offers both nature and history in one location.

Plan ahead as this place can get really busy. You need to buy a ticket to enter the castle, but the outside view and grounds are amazing. There is a public bus to get back to the entry gate/car park for about $3 AUD if you have exhausted yourself walking around the entire site. It will take some time to see it all and I suggest you set aside a couple of hours to get the best out of your visit.

Cost a bit of money each to visit, but it was well worth the cost. There are several floors of interesting artefacts, videos and informative displays. The view from the top isn't bad either. If you are looking for the touristy stamp, it's down on the bottom floor of the main castle. There is a lift that you can choose to go up in. However, they don't like you using it to come down, unless you are injured or have a disability.

Osaka Castle Park is wide, relaxing, and perfect for a long walk. Beautiful trees, open spaces, and great views of the castle from every angle. It’s the kind of place where you can slow down, take photos, and enjoy the atmosphere away from the noise of the city.

Osaka Castle Park turned out to be much bigger, calmer, and more atmospheric than I expected. Walking alone through its wide, open plazas and shaded paths gave me time to slow down, observe details, and imagine the centuries of stories that once moved through this space. A Park That Feels Like a Living Museum Stepping through the old gates into the park, I was greeted by a blend of stone, greenery, and a surprising sense of openness. The massive walls, the deep moats, and the distant silhouette of the castle rising above the treetops set a strong historical mood right from the start. In one corner, I found the Minami-shikirimon Gate and Taiko-yagura Turret site, marked by a sign explaining their role in dividing the Ninomaru area during the Edo period. The turret once housed a drum used to signal emergency alerts and shift changes for the samurai — a reminder that this peaceful park once operated like a fortified city. Both structures were lost during the Meiji Restoration fire of 1868. Nearby, the towering stone walls showed impressive craftsmanship. Some blocks rose several meters high, fitted with the precision of a jigsaw puzzle. Standing close, I could see rain streaks running down the surfaces, giving the stones a deep reddish-brown tone — as if the castle still carried memories of past storms. The Walk Toward the Main Tower As I approached the main tower, the path opened up into a large plaza full of visitors. From this angle, Osaka Castle looked magnificent — white walls, intricate gold details, and the distinctive green-tiled roofs layered like armor plates. Even under cloudy skies, the structure glowed. People with umbrellas, moving slowly up the slope toward the entrance. The contrast between the bright umbrellas and the dark stone walls felt almost poetic — modern life flowing through an ancient setting. From the wall edges, I could see the moat below, calm and green, circling the fortress like a natural defense line. Across the water were lush trees and glimpses of modern Osaka’s skyline rising behind them — a beautiful layering of past and present. Camphor Tree Planted by Toyotomi Hideyoshi (豊臣秀吉手植えの楠) One of the most meaningful spots for me was the wide open area where a massive camphor tree stands. According to tradition, this tree was planted personally by Toyotomi Hideyoshi, the visionary warlord who unified Japan and built the original Osaka Castle. On that summer afternoon, benches arranged around the tree were filled with families, elderly couples, and tourists resting under its generous shade. Even though the story behind the tree stretches back more than four centuries, its peaceful presence today felt surprisingly warm and comforting. Looking from beneath its branches, the castle tower framed perfectly in the distance — a reminder of Hideyoshi’s ambition and the legacy he left behind. The Modern Echo of History: The Former Military Arsenal Building Nearby stands the striking Miraiza building, a Western-style brick structure that once formed part of the Osaka Castle Military Arsenal. The design looks like an old European fortress, adding another layer to the site’s long military history. Today it houses cafés, food stalls, and souvenir shops — a complete contrast to its original purpose. A Park for Everyone Throughout my walk, I saw joggers, parents pushing strollers, tourists exploring the gates, and people simply sitting quietly under the trees. The wide boulevards and plazas gave the whole area a relaxed, spacious feel. Even with the crowds, it never felt cramped. It’s the kind of park where you can spend an entire day wandering, learning, resting, and people-watching — especially if you’re exploring alone and taking your time. Visiting Osaka Castle Park alone allowed me to appreciate both the historical weight and the everyday beauty of the place. The mix of greenery, architecture, open sky, and ancient stone made the park feel alive with different eras layered on top of one another. It’s more than just a path to the castle — it’s a gateway into Osaka’s soul.

I booked this trip for my boyfriend’s birthday, and overall, we had a lovely experience. It was clear that guest feedback is taken seriously. The food was excellent, and we appreciated the English instructions provided throughout. After breakfast, our futon wasn’t put away, which actually worked out well since we were able to rest a bit more. There were a couple of small hiccups, nothing major, but I’ll mention them in case it’s helpful for others. When we checked in, we were told someone would show us where the morning ceremony takes place, but they forgot to do it. Before our stay, I had emailed to ask if I could pay extra for something special to celebrate my boyfriend’s birthday. I was told that while they did not offer anything for purchase, guests celebrating birthdays would receive a small gift. However, there was no acknowledgment at all during our visit. I had no expectations, but since there were only two other groups of two staying that night, it felt a little disappointing that this was completely missed. At times, it seemed like the staff were not entirely sure how to guide us through the experience. While this did not take away from the overall enjoyment of our stay, a little more attentiveness would have made it feel more complete, especially considering the price (~130,000 yen for two).

The temple itself is beautifully serene, with peaceful gardens and traditional architecture that instantly creates a sense of calm. The accommodations were very comfortable, perfectly suited to the meditative atmosphere with own private small garden. One of the highlights was participating in the early morning ceremony with the monks. The chanting, incense, and quiet reverence set a tone of mindfulness that carried through the entire day. It felt truly special to be part of such a spiritual practice. The vegetarian meals (shojin ryori) were also excellent—carefully prepared, flavorful, and beautifully presented. Every detail reflected the temple’s deep sense of hospitality and respect for tradition. If you are visiting Mount Koya and want to experience authentic temple life, I highly recommend Joki-in. It’s not just a stay—it’s a chance to slow down, reflect, and connect with a centuries-old spiritual tradition.

We stayed with the two of us for one night at Joki-in. This has been a once in a lifetime experience and absolutely magical. From the moment we entered, the friendly staff welcomed us, showed us around and gave us explanations. We had a bath in the public onsens before enjoying the traditional dinner in our room (we booked the Junior Suite with private garden view and entrance). After that there was enough time to visit the cementary for a night tour (highly recommend with a guide from Adventure Tours). Coming back the room was already cleaned and prepared for the night. The next morning we participated in the morning prayers with the head monk of the temple at 06:30, before enjoying a groups breakfast with other guests in the dining hall. I wouldn't have wanted to miss this temple experience and highly recommend visiting Koyasan and Joki-in. Additional note after reading other reviews: We feel that they have taken the previous feedback serious and improved a lot of things. The staffs English was very good and we didnt miss explanations on anything. The morning ceremony included as well English explanation. The food is ofcourse traditional and maybe not of everyone's taste, but there are otyer food options just around the corner since Joki-in is very central. The basic rooms don't include a windows, but you can upgrade your room to have a garden view and enjoying the beautiful nature, which was totally worth it for us.

We stayed at this place our second night and had an extremely different experience than our first night at Ekoin. The best thing about the stay was definitey the shower and natural wood private bath. Here, the room had more amenities including toilet and private garden, but the food was really not good. It was definitely canned food and was not prepared for our arrival. This was not the case at Ekoin which tasted substantially fresher. English was very limited at Jokiin as well, which made the ritual confusing. Me and my friend undersood what was happening only because of the prior night at Ekoin. Would not recommend here.

This temple, and perhaps all of Koyasan, feels like a scam. Reminds me of a Moroccan souk, where everyone treats you like a source of income and nothing more. The staff here was unfriendly, the building and grounds without charm, and the room like a cheap motel. The building seemed purpose-built to make money. Why have a TV in a room designed for spirituality? Why a blindingly bright fluorescent light in the ceiling? So many things could have been better, calmer… Rather than feeling any kind of pull towards enlightenment, I only had a strong desire to leave.

Experience is always a balance of quality vs price. Everything was fine, clean, food was good, but too expensive for what it is. I am glad to support the temple activity by sleeping there. I am living in Japan for more than a year and at this price you have better ryokan experience.

This was such a treat to stay and "live" the traditional way. And being able to join the morning ceremony was amazing! Would go again 🙏

To me, this was the main reason to visit Koyasan, which we did on a day trip from Osaka. It would have been cool to spend the night in Koyasan and see more, but we were very happy with our day trip, where we spent most of our time in Okunoin. We took the bus to the city center and walked to the traditional Okunoin entrance at the Western bridge, and took our time walking the path through the cemetery. The whole place felt old and magical/spiritual, probably because of the massive towering trees surrounding us. I highly recommend a visit to Korasan and take your time enjoying Okunoin!

It is a sacred Buddhist site and cemetery on Mount Kōya, in Wakayama Prefecture, Japan. Opened in 835, it houses the mausoleum of Kūkai, founder of the Shingon school of Buddhism. The cemetery spans over 2 km (1.2 mi) in length and is in a forest of tall conifers and has more than 200,000 graves. His resting place in Okunuin has since become a place of pilgrimage, and Buddhist monks bring him ritual offerings and meals twice a day. Uneven terrain, lot of walking. Lots of locals, fair number of tourists and pilgrims. Wear comfy shoes, take water, wear hat, sunscreen. Parking is easy. Free entry. Toilets available. Interesting photography place.

A truly monumental place. The cemetery offers stunning views of moss-covered gravestones and creates a unique connection between visitors and those who have passed. For a more authentic and peaceful experience, I recommend exploring the quieter side paths away from the main tourist crowds. The atmosphere is serene, spiritual, and unforgettable. A must-see in Koyasan.

Whether at night or by day, regardless of weather it is always are great visit. Due to it being a gravesite, please respect the memory of the people buried here and act accordingly. Even a little goes a long way and ensures that people can enjoy this great site together. Obviously, at the spots where photos are forbidden, please respect the rules.

Okunoin is deeply spiritual. Walking among over cedar trees and mossy cemetery, I wondered how many years it took for each to become so beautiful. A must-visit in Japan!

Okunoin is one of the most impressive and spiritual places in Japan. The path through the ancient cedar forest, lined with countless moss-covered gravestones and lanterns, creates an atmosphere that is both reverent and peaceful. Especially at dusk, the place takes on an almost magical atmosphere. The main temple and the mausoleum of Kobo Daishi are of deep spiritual significance and invite visitors to pause and reflect. A visit here is not only a cultural experience, but also an opportunity to find peace and contemplation. For us, it is one of the most moving places in all of Japan and comes highly recommended.

Very serine and tranquil, I was on this walk by myself and I am kicking myself for not going earlier, I arrive at 5 and it’s fairly empty. I came from osaka and it was around 2 and a half hours. If you want to get away from it all this is probably one of the better areas to go to, as whole meaning the whole town. I would stay overnight if I could!