free
-
Mt Shinobu: Looking over Fukushima
In the centre of Fukushima city stands Mt Shinobu, which overlooks the city and is splayed around its base. Mt Shinobu only has a height of 275 meters (902 ft); it is actually a monadnock – an isolated rock hill, knob, ridge, or small mountain that rises abruptly from a gently sloping or virtually level…
-
Shimokita Peninsula: Beautiful Coastline
Off of Japan’s Aomori Prefecture lies the Shimokita Peninsula. A remote place that is difficult to get to (even with a car), the Shimokita Peninsula is known for a couple of things. The first is Cape Oma, Honshu’s Northernmost Point and also Japan’s tuna capital. The second is the sacred mountain of Osorezan, which is…
-
Shukutsu Panorama Observation Deck: A View of Ishikari Bay
-
Cape Tachimachi: Looking at Honshu from Hokkaido
Located in the southernmost point of Hakodate, Cape Tachimachi is an excellent place to look over the bay to Honshu, Japan’s main (and largest) island. The name “Cape Tachimachi” has an interesting origin. The original name in Ainu means “the place where you stand and wait to hunt fish”. The Japanese have shorted meaning this…
-
Hoppogensei Flower Garden: Horses and Hokkaido Flowers
Near Japan’s easternmost point on the Nemuro Peninsula lies Hoppogensei Flower Garden. I recently visited it during my trip around the peninsula. Hoppogensei Flower Garden is a relatively untouched area of land that features two things: horses and plants native to Hokkaido. In Japanese, “Hoppo” means northern, precisely what you will find here. While many…
-
Oronko Rock: Overlooking the Sea of Okhotsk
-
Furetoi Observation Deck: Over the Okhotsk Coast and Shiretoko Peninsula
Just down the road from Koshimizu Genseikaen lies the Furetoi Observation Deck. As the name suggests, here you are able to observe something: Japan’s Okhotsk Coast and the nearby Shiretoko peninsula. Without further ado, please feast your eyes on these sights: Side note, the mascot for this area is a seal because this is where…
-
Koshimizu Genseikaen: One of Hokkaido’s ‘primeval flower gardens’
If you visit the Okhotsk coast of Hokkaido in the east, one of the best places to go is the Genseikaen, or “primeval flower garden”, near Koshimizu. Koshimizu Genseikaen is a beautiful natural park that stretches on a thin piece of land between Lake Tofutsu and the Okhotsk Sea. A genseikaen (原生花園) is an area…
-
Cape Nosappu: Japan’s easternmost point
Located on the far eastern side of Hokkaido, Cape Nosappu is Japan’s easternmost point. One of my missions during my year-long trip of Japan is to visit all of the most extreme geographical points in the country. As of writing I have been to the northeasternmost point. Nemuro The largest town and gateway to Cape…
-
Lake Abashiri: A Haven for Hikers and Birdwatchers
Nestled in the captivating landscape of eastern Hokkaido’s Okhotsk subprefecture, Lake Abashiri offers an idyllic retreat for nature enthusiasts. This stunning lake, surrounded by lush greenery and scenic beauty, is a must-visit destination for anyone seeking tranquillity and adventure. Renowned for its hiking and birdwatching trails, Lake Abashiri promises a delightful experience for both seasoned…
-
Tokiwa Park: Exploring the Serenity of Asahikawa’s Green Oasis
Nestled in the heart of Asahikawa, Tokiwa Park offers a tranquil escape from the city’s hustle and bustle. This beautiful park, known for its lush greenery and serene ambience, is a favourite spot for locals and visitors seeking peace amidst the hustle and bustle of Hokkaido’s northernmost city. My video above captures the essence of…
-
Japanese Farmland: Exploring the Bounty of Hokkaido
In mid-July, the Japanese farmland (especially in Hokkaido) comes alive with vibrant colours and the promise of abundant harvests. As a travel writer exploring this picturesque region, I recently had the pleasure of walking through some fertile fields of eastern Hokkaido, capturing the essence of its agricultural bounty in the video above. This area is…
-
Nakafurano Hokuseiyama Lavender Fields: A Wave of Purple
Nestled in the heart of Hokkaido, the Nakafurano Hokuseiyama Lavender Fields are a breathtaking spectacle of natural beauty. These vibrant fields, awash with the deep purple hues of blooming lavender, have become a must-visit destination for flower enthusiasts and travellers alike. The lavender fields are not only a feast for the eyes but also offer…
-
Panorama Road: Discover the Scenic Beauty Kamifurano (Japan)
Lying between Daisetsuzan National Park and Yubari-sanchi mountain ranges, the Furano basin is known for its breathtaking landscapes and vibrant flower fields. In Kamifurano lies the “Panorama Road”, a scenic drive that offers panoramic views of rolling hills, lush farmlands, and the majestic Tokachi mountain range. This picturesque road draws nature lovers and photographers from…
-
Hiking in Sapporo: Maruyama Park to Mt Moiwa
Are you interested in hiking in Sapporo while you are visiting the city? Fortunately, nature is very close to the city. Here is a hike that I did from Maruyama Park to Mt Moiwa via the summit of Maruyama Mountain and Arashiyama Memorial Park. Video log: Hiking in Sapporo Starting point: Maruyama Park Getting to…
