One of my friends from Europe said.

The Oki Islands encompass four inhabited and many uninhabited islands located in the Sea of Japan 40-80 km north of Shimane Peninsula. Although they are isolated islands with poor transportation, they are very famous in Japanese history.

The Oki islands used to be a location of remote islands for the exile of nobles (Sometimes even the emperor! ) and government officials. They are mentioned in many of our history textbooks.
Nowadays, the islands are famous not only for their history even for their nature, they’re designated as a UNESCO Global Geopark.
You can enjoy the stunning view which includes the impressive rocky cliff coastline.

Today, let’s take a quick look at the natural beauty of the area.

1. Mount Akahage (アカハゲ山, Akahage-yama)  in Chiburijima (知夫里島)  .

Chiburijima is the smallest of the 4 major islands in the Oki Islands. It is said that this observatory is the only one in the Oki Islands where you can see the four main islands.

I felt like I arrived in some faraway European Country.

2 Sekiheki (赤壁), a sea-cliff composed of red rock, in Chiburijima (知夫里島)  .

The cliffs are 200 meters at their highest point and were originally a part of a volcano.
Volcanic eruptions and subsequent erosion have created this impressive landscape on the Oki island.

3  Chichi-sugi(岩倉の乳房杉),  Japanese Cedar, in Okinoshima(隠岐の島)  .

Okinoshima is the largest of the 4 major islands in the Oki Islands. This tree is about 800 years old and it’s a sacred tree and an object of worship.

4  Dangyo-no-taki (壇鏡の滝, Dangyo Waterfalls, in Okinoshima(隠岐の島)  .

In this waterfall where you can enjoy the mysterious sight of delicate water spilling down from a circular skylight.

It looks like a mist shower！
The water from this waterfall is one of the listed “100 famous natural water sources in Japan”. it is said that there are many long-lived people on this island because of it’s high-quality water.

The post Let me introduce the Amazing scenery on the Oki Islands UNESCO Global Geopark. appeared first on Trip Planner Japan.

It is located in northern Fukushima, in the Tohoku Region,  with an elevation of 800 m above sea level.
About 3-hour drive from Tokyo Metropolitan Area, 4 hours and a half by Highway Bus from Shinjuku(Tokyo).

The area has mountains, a group of lakes, rich flowing wetlands,  a clean river, and hot springs.
Because of the cold winters, you can also enjoy great skiing on powder snow.

Despite all these tourist resources, Urabandai is still not widely known by foreigners compare to Niseko, popular ski resort in Hokkaido.

”Recently, skiers who are tired of Niseko have been coming to Urabandai,” said the owner of one guesthouse.

One of my American friends also said, “There are so many tourists in Niseko and I can hear English all over the place. I don’t feel like I’m in Japan！In addition, prices are very expensive!”.

I think it is likely that this place will become famous among foreign Ski enthusiasts.

However, today, I want to talk about cherry blossoms in this area, not skiing.

There are many cherry blossom viewing spots in the Inawashiro area, which is easily accessible from Urabandai.

Here, the cherry blossom season is usually about a month later than in Tokyo, and is enhanced by the view of the lake and mountains.

🌸1. Bandaisan Ranch（磐梯山牧場）

There are about 200 cherry trees (Somei-Yoshino) in the Bandaisan Ranch, and you can see the splendid cherry blossom road every spring.

The rows of cherry trees stretch for more than a kilometer, you can walk for more than ten minutes enjoying the flowers.

You can see the view of Mt.Bandai , which is listed on the 100 famous mountains in Japan.

On the other side of the mountain, you can see Lake Inawashiro, Japan’s 4th largest lake.

Rows of cherry trees are common in Japan, but cherry blossom trees with a view of the mountains and lake are kind of rare.

⇒ See detail

🌸2. Sakura-touge（桜峠）

More than 3,000 cherry trees are located on this mountain path. The cherry trees that bloom here are an uncommon variety of cherry trees called Oshima Sakura which has a darker pink color.

The tree planting began in 2001 to celebrate the birth of Princess Aiko to the royal family. There are about 800 trees along the Meguro River which is one of the most famous cherry blossom viewing spots in Tokyo, so as you can see this pass is on a very large scale.

Beyond the cherry blossoms, you can see the mountains, making it a very photogenic place.

⇒　See detail.

🌸3. Kannonji River Cherry Trees（観音寺川さくら並木）

The small river is lined for about one kilometer on both sides with cherry trees (Somei-Yoshino). It is  the most famous place to see cherry blossoms in Fukushima Prefecture.

This small river curves gently to the right and left, flowing quietly with clear water in its natural state without any bank protection work.

It is my opinion that cherry blossom photos are more beautiful with the addition of greenery.

🌸4. Hanitsu Jinja（土津神社）

The shrine honors Aizu’s first feudal lord, Masayuki Hoshina, built in 1675.

This area was controlled by the Aizu clan during the Edo period. Who were defeated by the new government forces in the civil war at the end of the Edo period.
The shrine building was  lost at that time, but was later rebuilt in 1880.

Masayuki is the half-brother of the third shogun of the Tokugawa Shogunate, a historical figure who is respected for his intelligence and other qualities.

This shrine is known for its autumn leaves and cherry blossoms. You can also visit the graveyard of the Matsudaira（=Tokugawa) family, lords of the Aizu Clan.

Where to stay?

After you have enjoyed Cherry Blossom Viewing in Inawashiro Area, I recommend that you to stay at a nice guesthouse in front of a beautiful lake in Urabandai. The location is wonderful!

Bandai Lakeside Guesthouse is a small accommodation with a great view of Lake Sohara and Mt.Bandai.
It is the best place for canoeing, cycling, and trekking in Summer.

They have a craft beer tap in their dining room. You can enjoy a tasty beer after your outdoor activities.

There is a spectacular observatory within walking distance of this guesthouse.

・　Urabandai tourism official website.

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Daiji Iwase, editor-in-chief of a web magazine specializing in Champagne and a writer on alcoholic beverage and travel, has selected five wineries in Japan where you can enjoy photogenic scenery and fine cuisine.

――What made you start paying attention to Japanese wine in the first place?

I think it was around 2005. Before then, “Japanese wine” had an image of being a tourist souvenir from the Showa era (1926-1989).
I had a negative impression of Japanese wine and did not think I would go out of my way to order it.

However, when I “had to” taste some of the wines because it was my job, I was pleasantly surprised at how delicious they were. I was shocked to find out that it was not that Japanese wines had not been updated, but that I had not been able to update myself.

Since then, I have considered Japanese wines to be unique among wines from the rest of the world.
At that time, there were still many old-fashioned wines, but in the past five years, I feel that some Japanese wines with truly wonderful characteristics have been introduced to the world as a matter of course.

――So, the level of Japanese wine today is improving rapidly… so in connection with this, what are the current trends?

Japanese wine can be broadly divided into two categories: craft wines made from local grapes, and those that aim for global standards, both of which produce excellent wines nowadays.

At present, wineries are actively trying out difficult varietals and techniques, and various experiments are being actively conducted, which is exciting.
I hope that while they continue to enthusiastically pursue these routes, they will also increase the number of wines that can be drunk easily and be loved by all.

――Finally, what is the appeal of “Japanese wine” from your point of view?

Because it originated in Japan, it goes well with Japanese food. Or should I say, rather than traditional Japanese food, it is more suitable for local cuisine or everyday dining.
Japanese wine producers, even the big ones, are small in scale. Because of this, the wines have an honest, handmade feel to them, and it is easy to see that the producers enjoy their closeness with the product.

The best part of it all is that it’s in a relaxed destination!
Wineries often grow their grapes on spacious slopes, on hills with spectacular views, or with restaurants and tasting corners, making them the perfect travel destination.

5 Wineries in Japan to Travel to and Fill Your Heart, as selected by Daiji Iwase.

1. SAYS FARM

This winery is located on a hill with a spectacular view overlooking Himi Bay, famous for its cold yellowtail; a real taste of winter.
This winery completely overturned my previous knowledge about Japanese wine. Not only the taste and balance of the wine, but also the design is all excellent.
It is a wine resort with lodging facilities and restaurants that anyone can enjoy.

2. Grace Wine

This long-established winery is located in Katsunuma, about two hours by train from Tokyo.
The sparkling wine is made by Ms. Ayana Misawa, a winemaker, using the Champagne method that is highly acclaimed around the world.
The wine made from grapes from the newly opened Akeno vineyard is also excellent.
Many of the wines sell out very quickly, so don’t forget to check out the store when you visit the winery.

3. Tsuno Winery

Tsuno Winery, located in Tsuno City, Miyazaki Prefecture, is recommended for those who want to taste the pairing of fine food and wine while traveling.
While looking out at the clear blue sky and the crystal blue sea, you can enjoy wine pairings with the food of Miyazaki, which boasts an abundance of ingredients from the mountains and ocean.
The highlight is the “Campbell Early Rosé”. It has a good balance of sweetness and freshness, and it is rare to find a wine made from this grape variety that is so lovely and gastronomic.
Speaking of gastronomy, I also recommend the Tamba Winery in Kyoto. This winery also has a restaurant where you can pair wine with local products of Tamba, such as Kyoto vegetables and wild game.
When you visit, be sure to pay attention to the Tana grape variety, which is rare in Japan and is grown on the winery’s own farm.

4. Osa Winery

This winery is owned by a couple who have worked in the restaurant, retail, and liquor industries.
They are now making wine in the city of Otaru. The grapes they use are a local Hokkaido variety, which are pretty, simple, and sparkling. While making the most of these merits, the wine also has the sophistication of northern Italy, which the couple loves.

The design of the wine is also beautiful, and it is now a rare wine that is hard to find nowadays, so you should definitely buy a bottle when you visit, or even several bottles as souvenirs.

5. Chateau Mercian Kikyougahara Winery

Japanese wine is becoming more and more popular because of its small scale and craftmanship. But if you know the power and quality of the big players, you can learn more about the world of Japanese wine.

Chateau Mercian, one of the biggest players in the industry, continues to produce wines that make the most of the charm of the land with the stable quality of its wines, which is the result of techniques cultivated over 140 years and its large harvest. The wineries are located in Katsunuma in Yamanashi Prefecture, and in Mariko and Kikyougahara n Nagano Prefecture.

Among them, the Chateau Mercian Kikokogahara Winery is still proud of its “fantastic Merlot,” which was depicted in the movie “The Usuke Boys“. The first thing to do when you visit this winery is to try the Merlot.
Incidentally, there are many other wineries in the area, so it is fun to visit several of them.

Meanwhile, don’t miss the nearby Chateau Mercian Mariko Winery (Ueda City, Nagano Prefecture).
This winery opened in September 2019, and it was the first Japanese winery to be selected in the World’s Best Vineyards 2020 competition to select the world’s best wineries for wine tourism, ranking 30th in the world and 1st in Asia. You can take a tour here all year round (reservations required).

Daiji Iwase

Wine Magazine Editor-in-Chief and Sake/Travel Writer.

He is also involved in the planning and management of various alcohol-related media and events.

The post 5 Wineries in Japan to Travel to and Fill Your Heart, as selected by Daiji Iwase, Alcohol Magazine Editor-in-Chief appeared first on Trip Planner Japan.

It’s said “If you make pilgrimage to Ise in the West, you must make pilgrimage to the end of the East.” (here, that means Dewa Sanzan). It’s a mysterious and sacred site in the north, and it’s said that if you visit, you can be reborn.

Dewa Sanzan was originally an important site for Shugendo worshippers to be reborn while still alive, where the three mountains represent a person’s present (Mount Haguro), past (Mount Gassan), and future (Mount Yudono). Even now, mountain monks and people dressed in white can be seen coming to worship, which creates a very sacred atmosphere.

the official route is first to pray for the happiness of this world at Mount Haguro, the paradise and afterlife at Mount Gassan, and rebirth at Mount Yudono, but if you’re a beginner, it’s recommended to aim for the Dewa Sanzan Shrine on the summit of Mount Haguro.

The Dewa Sanzan Shrine houses the ‘Mount Haguro Sanjingosaiden’, a sanctuary which deifies the three gods of Mount Haguro, Mount Gassan, and Mount Yudono. You can more easily ‘tour’ the three mountains by visiting it.

After taking a 30-minute bus ride from the Tsuruoka Station, you arrive at the Haguro Center. Right before you is Zuijinmon, the main entrance to the holy precincts of the Dewa Sanzan Shrine.

Upon entering, a 1.7km(1mi), 2446 stair stone path begins. Along both sides of the stone steps are a series of 350-500 year old cedar trees awarded 3 stars by the Michelin Green Guide Japan.

The stairs going up are quite tough, but, strangely as you’re walking along the wide road surrounded by enormous cedar trees, you feel a sense of safety and relief akin to being in your mother’s womb.

If you’re feeling bored, watch the stone steps as you continue climbing, and you’ll surely sometimes notice small glasses and lotus flowers have been carved. It’s said that if you find 33 of them, your wish will come true. By the way, I only found about 5…

After climbing for about an hour, you’ll reach the Dewa Sanzan Shrine. Visit the Mount Haguro Sanjingosaiden set up amidst the magnificent shrine and experience rebirth.

The water level in the ‘mirror pond’ in front of the shrine has remained virtually unchanged over the years, and so has been worshipped for its mysterious nature. By the way, the mirror that was brought up from the pond can be viewed at the nearby Dewa Sanzan History Museum.

Well then, you could be satisfied and head back to Tsuruoka by bus at this point, but from July to September, there’s a bus from the summit of Mount Haguro to Mount Gassan, so I also recommend checking it out if you have the chance.

If you want to head to the summit, you’ll need to prepare for some real hiking, but it’s also fun to stroll about the area around the bus stop which has nearly the same elevation.

In shugendo belief, Mount Gassan represents the past and the afterlife, and it’s also the main peak of Dewa Sanzan. Mount Gassan Shrine is located at the peak, and it enshrines ‘Tsukuyomi No Mikoto’, the younger brother of the sun goddess ‘Amaterasu’ who is the highest deity in Japanese Shinto.

Although it had been sunny up until then, when I got off the bus at Mount Gassan, the sky suddenly became obscured by fog. The atmosphere was really like an entrance to the afterlife.

I was deeply moved by the mysterious scenery and atmosphere. It made me really understand why people in the past felt that this was the entrance to the afterlife.

This time I didn’t bring any sort of hiking equipment, so I gave up on going to the summit. Next time, I’d love to take the challenge.

If you visit during summer, you may want to experience a 3-day, 2-night traditional mountain pilgrimage tour package of Mount Haguro, Mount Yudono, and Mount Gassan.

I also recommend staying at pilgrimage-friendly accommodations called ‘Shukubo’, literally meaning ‘sleeping with monks’, or temple lodging.

The cuisine served is called ‘shōjin-ryōri’ and is typically vegetarian.

The post Experience a Pilgrimage of Rebirth at the Sacred site Dewa Sanzan. appeared first on Trip Planner Japan.

Many people come here to escape the heat of summer and to enjoy winter sports such as skiing and snowboarding during winter.

If you like

Shopping: You can buy very sophisticated artisan products and clothes in Sapporo, the biggest city in Hokkaido. Asahikawa is famous for its woodworking furniture. One of Hokkaido’s most famous handicrafts is “Kibori kuma“(wooden carving of a bear).

Arts and culture: Moerenuma Park in Sapporo, CHAPEL ON THE WATER in Tomamu, Nakasatsunai Art Village in Obihiro are popular art spots.

Outdoor activities:In addiction to the skiing , snowboarding and hiking activities that the area is renowned for, there are also rivers in Niseko and Kushiro where you can enjoy canoeing and rafting. Seeing drift ice in Abashiri and trekking in Kushiro Marsh are also popular.

Hot springs: Noboribetsu Onsen  is the most famous hot spring resort, but there are about 250 hot spring resorts in Hokkaido.

Traditional townscape: In general, Hokkaido is a land that began to be fully developed in the late 19th century, and there are few historical sites. However, there are a few places where you can get in touch with the history of the Ainu, the indigenous people. Such as , National Ainu Museum,
Lake Akan Ainu Kotan, Shiraoi Porotokotan.

Gourmet food: Exhibitions displaying Hokkaido products are held almost every day all over Japan. That’s how popular Hokkaido’s food is among Japanese people.

The extensive list of local gourmet foods include, miso ramen, soup curry and jingisukan. In addition, parfaits are also becoming popular these days. Sapporo has a unique habit of eating perfait after drinking an alcholic beverage. They call this custom “Shime Pafait”.

Places to go on a date: Night view in Moiwa Mountain,Mt. Hakodate.
Nightlife: Susukino is one of the most popular entertainment districts in Japan, along with Kabukicho in Tokyo and Nakasu in Fukuoka.

Popular places

Popular among Japanese people: Walking around the towns of Sapporo, Hakodate and Otaru, the flower fields of Furano, and the spectacular scenery of Kushiro and Tokachi, Asahiyama Zoo.

Popular among foreigners: Niseco. Shirogane Blue Pond, Asahiyama Zoo.

Films about Hokkaido

・Detective in the Bar
・Love Letter
・The Yellow Handkerchief

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Holy mountain, Mt. Fuji is also Power Spot

Kudaka is an Island of Prayer and Sacred Ritual in Okinawa.

Takuhi shrine, Shimane. This shrine is dedicated to the deity of safe sea voyages.

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