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A day trip from Osaka! 12 popular sightseeing spots to visit by train
Osaka, the financial center of west Japan. Are you thinking about visiting this amazing city? Or about to start looking for the best tourist attractions in and around Osaka? The following is going to introduce you the most recommended spots for a one-day trip. All of them are easy to access by railway started from the biggest terminal station Osaka-umeda. If you are making plans for your trip, let’s check it out! -INDEX- 1.【Hyogo】Kobe City Center 2.【Hyogo】Mt. Rokko area 3.【Hyogo】Arima Hot Spring 4.【Hyogo】Himeji Castle 5.【Hyogo】Kinosaki Hot Spring 6.【Hyogo】Awaji Island 7.【Kyoto】Arashiyama Area, Kiyomizu-dera Temple and Kyoto City Center 8. 【Kyoto】Nishiyama Area 9. 【Kyoto】Amanohashidate Area 10. 【Kyoto】Miyama Village 11. 【Nara】Nara Park, Todai-ji, Kasugataisha Shrine and Nara City Center 12.【Shiga】Biwako Valley Kobe, a coastal city, developed rapidly under the influence of foreign cultures since the opening of Kobe Port in 1868. Since it has a completely different atmosphere from Osaka and Kyoto, we recommend you to visit Kobe to learn more about West Japan’s culture. Besides, it only takes 30 minutes by railway from Osaka to Kobe. The center of Kobe City is Sannomiya area, which is not very big but full of attractions. In addition to visiting the bay area where you can experience living in a coastal town, you may also go to Kitano Ijinkan street, where has a lot of modern western-style mansions. We also recommend you to visit the art galleries and museums around. If you want to try some authentic Chinese food, Nankin-machi, one of the biggest Chinatown in Japan, is where you should go. Besides that, Kobe also provides you with the experience of Western food culture and Western sweets. ▼Click here▼ First Time in Kobe. 21 Best Things to Do! Sightseeing, Spots, Dining, Model Course Mt. Rokko is the perfect spot to see the entire city of Kobe. Take the cable car to the mountaintop and enjoy the fabulous city view surrounded by beautiful nature. Also, it is close enough to Osaka that you can easily plan it as a one-day trip. Mt. Rokko offers the best night view of Kobe and in the daytime there is chance to see Osaka from afar. In addition, the mountaintop also has a photogenic observatory, a botanical garden, an athletic park, BBQ area and a ranch where not only adults, but children can enjoy themselves. From spring to autumn, the mountain area is covered by alpine plants. A large-scale of art exhibition is held every autumn. During winter, Rokko ski resort is open during the daytime and it is the closest ski resort from Osaka. If you get tired, the famous Arima hot spring is accessible by ropeway from the mountaintop. ▼Click here▼ Mt. Rokko tourist guide Arima Onsen has been known as one of the three best hot springs in Japan, including two popular gold and silver hot spring. It is highly recommended for a one-day trip from Osaka. Besides the hot spring, you can find some authentic Japanese food and taste the famous “carbonated rice crackers”. Walk along the street slowly and enjoy the traditional atmosphere. If you are looking for a cost-effective way to go by railway. Arima hot spring is now offering two kinds of package tickets, both of which includes a one-day railway pass and hot spring ticket. Hankyu expressway bus offers direct access to Arima hot spring and is also highly recommended. ▼Click here▼ Arima Onsen Taikou-no-yu Package Tickets ▼Check out this article!▼ Arima Onsen-1 Day Trip|Enjoy Hot Springs, Gourmet, and Nature! The 10 best food and sweets in Arima Onsen Town Himeji Castle is designated as world cultural heritage and national treasure. It is also called “White Heron Castle” because of its unique wings-shaped rooftop. The main donjon was built in 1609 and keeps showing its beauty to people from all over the world till now. At night, you can see different colors of light up in different season. Himeji Castle was built with strong defensive system in the past. If you want to have an immersive experience, use the AR and CG provided by Himeji Castle. ▼Check out this article!▼ 5 castles in Osaka, Kyoto and Hyogo. From World Heritage Sites to the Newest Castles, Places to Visit for Sightseeing Kinosaki Hot Spring has been loved by great writers from the past. Many tourists choose to stay overnight and enjoy the calm atmosphere, but a one-day trip is also possible if you departure early in the morning. 7 different public baths are provided and take your time to enjoy the street. Walking along the river full of elegant willow trees, you can see a lot of people dressed in Japanese traditional yukata and going on a tour of all baths. When snow falls in winter, you can enjoy the indescribable breathtaking scenery during the bath. Also, Kinosaki hot spring town is famous for fresh fish cuisine due to its seaside location. Snow crab is their specialty and you don’t want to miss that. Awaji Island is a leisure spot that is becoming increasingly popular in west Japan. Island bus is provided for those who want to go around the island by public transportation. Awaji island has not only one of the oldest shrines in Japan, but also delicious sea food and chic cafes in which you can enjoy the spectacular view of the ocean and sky. In addition, you can find a roadside station which has Awaji specialties and souvenirs beside Akashi-Kaikyo Bridge, the main bridge connecting Awaji Island and mainland. On the way back, you can also choose to take Awaji Jenova line ferry instead of railway. Besides, the leisure area Awaji Yumebutai designed by world-famous architect Tadao Ando has the perfect location overlooking Osaka Bay. This terrific architecture puts nature elements and the modern world together. ▼Click here▼ This is the place to go! An overwhelmingly beautiful architectural spot that harmonizes with the nature of Awaji Island! When it comes to sightseeing in Japan, Kyoto is one of the best places to experience Japanese culture and it only takes 50 minutes to go from Osaka. Now sightseeing express railway “Kyo-Train Garaku” is run together with Hankyu railway. Japanese-style interior is popular among travelers. Passengers just need to pay the regular fee and no reservation is required. For your information, Kyo-Train Garaku is available only on weekends and holidays. ▼Click here▼ “Kyo-train Garaku” Ride Guide ▼Check out this article!▼ Must-visit! 12 World Heritage Sites in Kyoto Arashiyama Sightseeing Guide Nishiyama area is an undiscovered sightseeing spot in Kyoto. In additional to its astonishing nature, Nishiyama area is very close to Osaka. This area has shrines such as Yoshiminei Temple, where you can overlook the whole city area along the mountain road, and Yanagidani Kannon Temple, which is famous for its hydrangeas and Hana-chouzu (the arrangement of flowers and plants on the surface of a water basin). In addition, “Kyoto City Rakusai Bamboo Forest Park” and “Bamboo Path” are more expansive than Arashiyama’s “Bamboo Forest Path” and are good places to hole up. There are also experience facilities such as “Suntory Yamazaki Distillery” known worldwide as one of the “Japanese Whiskey” and “Suntory <Natural Water Beer Factory> Kyoto”. ▼Click here▼ Kyoto Nishiyama|An undiscovered sightseeing spot in Kyoto! Amanohashidate is one of the three best views in Japan, locating in north Kyoto. It has a unique landform with about 6,700 pine trees growing on the reef approximately 20m to 170m wide and 3.6km long created over thousands of years by nature force. Its large undulating shape has long been compared to that of a descending dragon. In addition to walking through Amanohashidate or viewing it from a boat, the view from the observation deck is especially recommended. There is a standard way to enjoy viewing Amanohashidate. Stand with your back to Amanohashidate, bend at the waist and look at Amanohashidate from between your legs. You may be able to see a dragon aiming for the sky while the world is upside down. ▼Click here▼ 【Kyoto】Amanohashidate Travel Guide|Access, Attractive Points, Ine Town and More! Miyama-cho, Nantan city, Kyoto prefecture is a ‘country town’ where still retains peaceful rural atmosphere and traditional houses with thatched rooftops. It takes about 3 hours to go from Osaka city so it can be visited as a one-day trip destination. If you want to have a deep experience of traditional culture of Miyama-cho, we recommend participating in tours such as cycling, mochi pounding, and the ‘half-day home visit’ where you can get a glimpse of the local lives. All sightseeing related information can be found at Kyoto Tamba Kogen Quasi-National Park Visitor Center. English is available at the visitor center. ▼Click here▼ Why is Miyama-cho, Kyoto recommended for overseas tourists? Nara, a city with a long-established culture, used to be the capital city of Japan in 710. The capital Heijo-kyo was built at the site of present-day Nara city and is designated as World Cultural Heritage, together with Todai-ji Temple, Kasuga-taisha Shrine and Yakushi-ji Temple. In particular, Todai-ji Temple has the famous Buddha statue known as the ‘Great Buddha of Nara’. Daibutsu-den, where the Buddha statue is, has been rebuilt and is one of the largest wooden structures in the world. Moreover, Nara is famous for its wild deer which are designated as national monument. Deer in Nara can be seen along the street and they would get close to tourists, making it a rare scene of people and wild animals coexisting in the city. ▼Check out this article!▼ Enjoy the Great Buddha of Nara, the pride of Japan’s World Heritage and power spot Biwako Valley is an activity area built on the top of the mountain with an altitude of about 1,100m to the west of Biwako Lake, the biggest freshwater lake in Japan. The attraction of Biwako Valley is the magnificent panorama of Lake Biwa! Take the ropeway at the bottom of the mountain for 5 minutes and you can enjoy the whole view of the terrific Biwako Lake. Chances are that you may also see Osaka, Kyoto and even the 3,000m mountains from the terrace. At the main view spot Biwako Terrace, you can find sofas and chairs set on a wide wooden deck where you can fully relax yourselves. For those who likes thrilling activities, zipline is available at the mountaintop and there are also athletic facilities called Skywalker for both children and adult. What’s more, ski resort is open during winter and is the perfect place to go for ski and snowboard lovers. Have you found a good place for a day trip? Enjoy! OSAKA KYOTO KOBE” provides useful information for visitors to Japan visiting the Kansai region. Be sure to check out the latest trendy tourist spots and unknown hidden gems!
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Seven famous places for wisteria flowers in Kansai. Spots with purple spring flowers.
Spring in Japan is the season of flowers! Many people may think of cherry blossoms when they think of spring flowers in Japan, but wisteria flowers is a spring flower that is familiar to Japanese people and has even been written about in waka poems. The best time to see isteria flowers is after the cherry blossoms have fallen. Even after the cherry blossoms are over, there are still some Japanese landscapes that we would like visitors to see! *Admission and worship fees are required to view some spots. For details, please check the official website of each spot. -INDEX- [Osaka, Fukushima-ku] Shimofukushima Park, etc. [Osaka, Higashisumiyoshi] Nagai botanical garden [Tamba-shi, Hyogo] Byakugou-ji Temple [Takarazuka-shi, Hyogo] Nakayamadera Temple [Kyoto,Uji] Byodoin Temple [Kyoto, Fushimi] Jounangu [Nara] Kasuga Taisha Shrine Wisteria flowers can be seen even in urban centers. The Fukushima-ku and Noda area, near the Umeda area of Osaka, has been known as a famous place for Fuji trees for about 600 years. This is also where the standard Japanese name for the wisteria flowers(Fuji) is “nodafuji”. Noda’s wisteria flowers were almost completely wiped out in an air raid during World War II, but have now been restored thanks to the efforts of local residents. The flowers bloom every year at 29 locations in the ward, including parks and public facilities. In particular, Shimofukushima Park has the largest number of wisteria trellises in the ward and is worth seeing. The plaza in front of Hanshin Noda Station is also picturesque, with its fantastic contrast between the purple hues of the wisteria flowers and the urban landscape. Usual viewing time: mid-April The collaboration of blue and light purple flowers at “Nagai Botanical Garden” looks great in photographs. Nemophila, a popular spring flower in Japan in recent years, blooms all over the Life Garden, which covers an area of about 2,000 square meters. Next to it, in mid-April, nodafuji (wisteria flower) blooms with light purple flowers, making this a spot where visitors can see all the popular flowers at once. The Nagai Botanical Garden is only one subway train ride away from Umeda, Shinsaibashi, and Namba. It is easily accessible from the center of the city, and visitors can encounter a wide variety of plants, trees, and flowers throughout the year. The permanent nighttime outdoor museum “Team Lab Botanical Garden Osaka” is also popular! ▼For more information, click here.▼ Highlights and things to do at teamLab Botanical Garden Osaka Usual viewing time: mid-April (Nemophila: mid-April to early May) There is no one who is not moved by the sight of the wisteria at Byakugou-ji Temple! It takes about 2 hours and 20 minutes from Osaka Station to Byakugou-ji Temple by train and cab, but the scenery is so spectacular that it will leave you speechless. The previous chief priest planted this variety of wisteria flowers about 30 years ago, and the flower clusters are over 1 meter long. The volume of the wisteria trellises is overwhelming, as they are set up in an L-shape over a vast area of 120 meters. The wisteria flowers pour down from overhead like a shower. At night, the area is illuminated. The illuminated wisteria flowers is like an aurora borealis trailing in the sky. Usual viewing time: early to mid May Nakayama-dera Temple is famous for its fertility and safe delivery. It is located in Takarazuka, where hot springs spring water gushes out. There is an 80-meter-long wisteria trellis in “Hoshi no Hiroba” in the precincts of the temple, and from mid to late April, the wisteria flowers are in full bloom. Purple wisteria are most commonly seen in Japan, but Nakayama-dera Temple is characterized by its white wisteria. If you visit on a sunny day, they look like clouds floating in a blue sky! The sweet fragrance of the wisteria flowers also wafts through the air. Usual viewing time: mid to late April Byodoin Phoenix Hall, built in 1053, is a famous landmark depicted on the 10-yen coin, and is a must-see spot if you are visiting Kyoto as a tourist. Byodoin Garden, with its seasonal flowers, together with the Phoenix Hall built on the middle of the pond and the view of the mountains on the other side of the pond, is an image of the Paradise that people envisioned when the temple was built. In spring, the pond is filled with blooming wisteria flowers, which harmonize beautifully with the gorgeous Phoenix Hall. This is truly a paradise-like setting with an elegant Japanese flavor that should not be missed. Usual viewing time: mid-April to early May Jonangu is a place where visitors can enjoy seasonal flowers. There are five gardens within the precincts of the temple, and every year the hues of wisteria flowers in the “Muromachi no Niwa” garden, a garden with a circular garden with a pond. In spring, there is much to see, as not only the wisteria flowers but also the Yamabuki and azalea trees on the grounds bloom around the same time. In addition, there is a “wisteria miko kagura” performance (free admission) in which a shrine maiden holding a wisteria branch in her hand and crowned with a cluster of wisteria flowers performs a kagura dance, and if you receive a “wisteria flower charm,” the shrine maiden will purify you with a kagura bell (1,000 yen per charm). This is a spot where visitors can not only admire the flowers, but also enjoy the “experience. Usual viewing time: Late April Wisteria Miko Kagura: twice a day at 10:00 and 15:00 on May 1-6, 11, 12, 18, 19, 25, and 26, 2024 Kasuga-taisha Shrine is one of Nara’s major tourist attractions with its beautiful shrine pavilions painted in bright vermilion, and is designated as a World Heritage Site. The wisteria flowers is an important flower for Kasuga Taisha Shrine, and is even used in the shrine’s crest. The wisteria flowers grow wild throughout the shrine grounds, and the “Wisteria of Sunazuri” at the Main Sanctuary is known as a famous tree. In addition, about 300 varieties of flowers and plants related to Japan’s oldest anthology of poetry, Manyoshu, are planted in the Manyoshu Botanical Garden, where about 200 wisteria flowers of 20 varieties are grown, allowing visitors to learn about the differences in shape, size, and color of the flowers depending on the variety. Usual viewing time: mid-April to early May Since ancient times, Japanese people have been sensitive to the changing of the seasons. Don’t you think that the graceful and dignified impression of the wisteria flowers is linked to the Japanese image of harmony? Please visit a spot where you can see the Japanese-style scenery of the wisteria flowers.
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The 8 best winter illuminations in Osaka, Kyoto, Kobe and Nara!
Are you wondering where to go sightseeing in Kansai in winter? In Japan, major illumination events will be held in various locations. Starting with Umeda, Osaka, the center of Kansai, historic buildings and symbols in Kyoto and Nara will be decorated with gorgeous colors for a limited period of time. This year, Kobe’s traditional festival, which is filled with the prayers and hopes of the citizens of Kobe, will also make a comeback. Please be sure to include it in your travel plans. ※All photos are for illustrative purposes only. <Osaka>Festival of the lights in OSAKA 2023 <Osaka・Umeda>UMEDA SKYBUILDING Christmas 2023 <Osaka>OSAKA CASTLE ILLUMINAGE <Osaka・Umeda>GRAND FRONT OSAKA「GRAND WISH CHRISTMAS 2023~Joyful Winter~」 <Osaka・Umeda>Also recommended! Umeda’s Winter Event “UMEDA MEETS HEART 2023” <Hyogo>Kobe Luminarie <Kyoto>NAKED YORU MO-DE 2023 Heian Jingu Shrine <Nara>Tenpei Water Symphony 「Midosuji Ilumination2023」~2023/12/31 「OSAKA Hikari-Renaissance 2023」2023/12/14~2023/12/25 「Illuminaight Bampaku」~2023/12/30(Friday, Saturday and Sunday only),2023/12/28 “Festival of the lights in OSAKA 2023” is a major winter event that takes place in various locations throughout Osaka Prefecture! “Midosuji Ilumination2023” will illuminate Midosuji, the symbolic street connecting Umeda, Shinsaibashi, and Namba, for a total length of 4 kilometers. At the Umeda Suction Tower, the starting point of Midosuji, Japan’s first landmark laser will pierce the sky! “OSAKA Hikari-Renaissance 2023”, the Osaka City Central Public Hall, an important cultural asset located in Nakanoshima, will be decorated with projection mapping using overwhelming visual beauty, sound effects, and the latest technology. The symbolic Tower of the Sun at the “Illuminaight Bampaku” in Expo’70 Commemorative Park will be decorated with luster and color. Venues: Midosuji area, Osaka Central Public Hall, Expo’70 Commemorative Park, etc. Date:~2023/12/25 Umeda Sky Building, a tourist spot in Umeda, is also holding an illumination event, with an LED mapping tree using the latest digital technology welcoming visitors to the plaza on the first floor. The tree is 25 meters high, making it a very impressive sight! At the Kuchu Teien Observatory, the indoor observation floor on the 40th floor will be transformed into a forest of white trees! The space is enveloped in blue light, as if it were covered with snow. Don’t forget to take a commemorative photo at the photo spot that resembles a snow globe! Venue: Umeda Sky Building Date:~2024/2/25 An illuminated space appears with Osaka Castle, one of Osaka’s tourist attractions! The history of Osaka, from the Warring States Period to the present day, will be represented with approximately 3.5 million illuminated bulbs on the vast waterfront of light. In addition to the fun Osaka-style programs, unique illuminations, and LED neon lights, there will also be participatory illuminations such as a gimmick in which the lights move along with the movements of the participants and a glowing seesaw. The night is sure to be full of attractions and vividly illuminated scenography. Venue: Osaka Castle Nishinomaru Garden Date:~2023/12/25(Christmas illumination) ~2024/2/29(Winter illumination) The tree at Grand Front Osaka entertains visitors with surprising tricks every year. This year, a 12-meter high tree with a merry-go-round motif will make its debut. The gorgeous sound and light lighting show is also a must-see! This year’s event is also a collaboration with the world-famous LEGO (R) brand. A rally in which you can complete your own LEGO (R) mini-figure is being held. Outside the facility, the Umekita Plaza and the Yaki-no-Namiki trees will be decorated with gorgeous champagne gold, adult-like illumination, creating a fantastic winter mood. Venue: Grand Front Osaka Date:~2023/12/25 The town of Umeda will be decorated and illuminated in the shape of hearts. Messages of dreams and hopes from children will be displayed as giant artworks, stamp collecting will be held to make walking around the town fun, and the whole town will be filled with heartwarming hearts. From December 15 to 17, a Marche (at Nishi-Umeda Park) with hot drinks and gourmet kitch Venue: Umeda area Date:2024/1/19~2024/1/28 Kobe Luminarie, a winter festival held in the heart of Sannomiya, has been held as a symbol of hope for the citizens of Kobe, who suffered great damage in the 1995 Great Hanshin-Awaji Earthquake. This year, the event will be held for the first time in four years, and the venue has been expanded. Under the theme of “Kobe, Shining Light for the Future,” giant works of light will appear, including the 39-meter-wide, 19-meter-high “Spalliera” light wall hanging (Kobe East Park venue) and a 70-meter-long corridor of light (Meriken Park venue). Venue: Kobe East Park, Former Foreign Settlement, Meriken Park Date:~2023/12/25 The shrine pavilions of Heian Jingu Shrine are transformed into a different world with light and sound effects! This is a new type of event in which important cultural properties and the Japanese garden are decorated with art such as projection mapping and lantern lighting. Of particular note is the interactive art “Corridor of Light”. Lanterns illuminate the long corridor of Daigoku-den Hall, an Important Cultural Property, which is normally off-limits to visitors. If you place the lanterns in the right places, the projection mapping will change! At “Chozuya of Light” visitors can also experience the magical experience of having colorful lights projected in the palm of their hands as they purify their hands and mouths before praying. Venue: Heian Jingu Shrine Date:~2023/12/28 A limited-time water projection is now being held at the Heijo-kyo(Nara Palace Site Historical Park), the capital of Japan that flourished some 1,300 years ago and is registered as a World Heritage site! The huge water screen, 15 meters wide and 5 meters high, will be projected on a winter evening with a variety of visuals and effects. The water projection reproduces the world of the Tenpyo Period with motifs such as the origins of Heijo-kyo, the concept of the five colors handed down in Buddhism, and world heritage sites around the world. Enjoy the fantastic space of shimmering water and colors! Venue: Heijo-kyo(Nara Palace Site Historical Park), Suzakumon Hiroba Illuminations that warm the heart are a special treat on a cold winter night. We hope it will be a memorable part of your trip to Japan!
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〈2023〉Best 14 Places to See Autumn Leaves in Japan (Kyoto, Osaka and More)!
Japan in autumn colors. Here are some of the best places in Kansai to see the autumn leaves, by area, from once-in-a-lifetime viewing spots to hidden gems. Please refer to the fall tourism in 2023. -INDEX- 【KYOTO】 〇Higashiyama Area Famous place:Eikando Little known good spot:Anrakuji 〇Arashiyama Area Famous place:Daikaku-ji Temple Famous place:Jojakko-ji Little known good spot:Takenotera-Jizoin 〇Other Area Famous place:Rurikoin Little known good spot:Komyo-ji 【OSAKA】 Famous place:Minoh Waterfall Little known good spot:Katsuo-ji 【KOBE】 Famous place:Sorakuen Garden Famous place:Kobe Municipal Arboretum Little known good spot:Rokko-Arima Ropeway 【Other Area】 Himeji:KOKO-EN Nara:Hasedera temple Eikando is the best place in Higashiyama to view the autumn leaves. About 3,000 maple trees cover the entire precincts of the temple. The sight of the tallest pagoda, Dabotou, enveloped by the autumn leaves is a fantastic sight. Japanese maples are planted around the Housho Pond, and the reflection of the Japanese maples and the Gokuraku Bridge in the water is a must-see. Normally closed to the public, this special temple is open to the public only during the cherry blossom and autumn foliage seasons. Within walking distance is the Philosopher’s Path, which is tinted in autumn, so a walk along this path is recommended. Highlights include the scattered autumn leaves that turn the stone steps of the temple gate bright red and the beautiful garden with Nyoigatake in the background. The combination of the beautiful colors of the pagoda and the fiery maple leaves is gorgeous. Osawa Pond to the east is also a popular spot for viewing autumn leaves. The reflection of the autumn scenery on the surface of the water is fantastic. This temple is located on Mt. Ogura, known for the Ogura Hyakunin Isshitsu. In autumn, the approach from the entrance gate to the Niomon Gate is covered in autumn leaves, creating a tunnel of foliage. The autumn leaves surrounding the 12-meter tall Dabotou (pagoda), which is located at the top of the stone steps, is a must-see. The precincts of the temple and the area around the pagoda also offer a panoramic view of Kyoto City. It is a well-known autumn foliage viewing spot for those in the know. The trees change color later than other places in Kyoto, and the autumn leaves can be enjoyed until mid-December. Surrounded by lush bamboo groves, the contrast between the green of the bamboo and the changing colors of the autumn leaves is magnificent. The heart-shaped window, Inome-mado, in the Hojo is also open to the public. The autumn leaves cut by the window are breathtakingly beautiful. Ruriko-in Temple is a popular spot in Rakuhoku Yase, and the spectacular view of the autumn leaves reflecting on the lacquered desk on the second floor is a sight to behold. Anyone can take pictures of this spectacular view by holding up a camera at the desk. It is open to the public only twice a year, in spring and fall. Please enjoy the wide-open view of the autumn leaves as they spread across your field of vision. Sohonzan Komyoji Temple is located at the foot of Nishiyama in Nagaokakyo City. Visitors can see the rich expression of nature in each of the four seasons. Every year from mid-November to early December, a special entrance to the temple is held for the autumn foliage. The maple approach to the temple, with its impressive lineup of about 250 old maple trees, is a superb photo spot. Minoh Great Falls is one of the best places in Osaka to view the autumn leaves. The contrast between the waterfall and the autumn leaves in the vast Minoh Park is spectacular. You can enjoy the autumn leaves everywhere along the 2.6 km route from Hankyu Minoh Station to the falls. If you come to Minoh, you must try the famous “Momiji no Tempura” (maple leaf tempura). It is a slightly sweet and crunchy snack made by carefully frying real maple leaves one by one. You can buy it at a store on Takimichi. Known since ancient times as a temple of good fortune, the precincts of Minoh’s Katsuo-ji Temple are decorated with brilliant autumn leaves in November. The tunnel of autumn leaves covering the approach to the temple is especially spectacular. The contrast between the green mountains in the background and the autumn leaves is like a painting. Katsuo-ji Temple is also known as the temple of “Kachi-Dharma”. Small Dharma dolls are laid everywhere, including on the stairs and stone walls. Please enjoy the adorable Dharma and beautiful nature. Sorakuen Garden is the only Japanese garden in Kobe City’s urban parks. It is a kaiyu-style garden with a pond, with stepping stones and stone bridges across which visitors can view streams and waterfalls. The garden is famous for azaleas in spring, and in autumn the garden is decorated with autumn leaves. Important cultural properties such as the boathouse and the former Hassam residence, which were relocated for preservation, are also highlights. Why not enjoy an authentic Japanese garden and fall foliage viewing in the city of Kobe? The park is divided into different regions of the world, such as North America and Europe, and different types of trees, so that visitors can learn about the diverse beauty of autumn leaves. The area around Hase Pond is a particularly beautiful spot for viewing the autumn colors in a water mirror. Let’s take a stroll through the vast park and enjoy the world tour of autumn leaves! The Rokko-Arima Ropeway connects the top of Mt. Rokko and Arima Onsen in about 12 minutes. Visitors can enjoy the changing autumn leaves depending on the elevation. The view of the autumn foliage from the gondola’s large foot-high windows is spectacular. There are nine gardens of different styles with Himeji Castle, which is registered as a World Heritage site, in the background. Because of the atmosphere of the Edo period, the gardens are often used for filming movies and TV dramas. In the fall, the Autumn Foliage Festival is held from mid-November to early December. (November 18 – December 4, 2022) The best time to visit is during the “Momiji-kai” (autumn foliage viewing), when the leaves are illuminated for a fantastic view. You can enjoy a fantastic view that is different from that of daytime. Hasedera Temple, located in Sakurai City, Nara Prefecture, is known as the “Temple of Flowers”. The temple is open twice a year, in spring and fall, for a limited time for special visits. A must-see spot is the floor of the hall of worship. In autumn, visitors can enjoy the “Yuka-momiji” (floor maple leaves) that turn bright red. The view of the autumn leaves from the stage in front of the main hall is not to be missed. The five-story pagoda surrounded by autumn leaves is a magnificent sight. Be sure to visit Hasedera Temple, where the entire mountain is decorated with autumn leaves. Autumn in Japan is very vivid. There are so many places to see the autumn leaves that it is impossible to visit them all at once. Please find your favorite spot and enjoy the autumn foliage as you wish.
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9 Best Fall Flower Spots in Japan|Rose, Dalia, Cosmos And Kochia
From the end of the hot summer to the beginning of the fall foliage, pretty flowers bloom beautifully under the fresh blue sky. There are many colorful and beautiful sights unique to this season. In addition to introducing typical autumn flowers and plants, we will also introduce autumn flower spots in the Kansai region. The best time to see the flowers is only a guide, so please check the web before you go. 【Cosmos】 Best time to visit: early October to early November (NARA)HANNYAJI (HYOGO・AMAGASAKI)Mukogawa Hige no watashi cosmos garden (OSAKA)Toyono Cosmos-no-sato 【Kochia】 Best time to visit: Early October to late October (OSAKA)Expo ’70 Commemorative Park (SHIGA)Biwako Hakodateyama 【Dahlia】 Best time to visit: early October to early November (HYOGO・TAKARAZUKA)Takarazuka Dahlia Garden (HYOGO・KAWANISHI)Kurokawa Dariya Garden 【Rose】 Best time to visit: Mid-October to early November (HYOGO・ITAMI)Aramaki Rose Park (OSAKA)Nakanoshima Rose Garden The cosmos is a typical Japanese autumnal flower. Blooming in the autumn sky, swaying gently in the wind, cosmos make a magnificent sight when planted in clusters. They come in a variety of colors, including pink, red, white, and yellow. Hannya-ji Temple is known as a temple where flowers bloom from season to season. It is especially famous for its cosmos in autumn and is nicknamed “Cosmos Temple”. About 150,000 cosmos trees of 30 different varieties are planted, and when they are in full bloom, the cosmos flowers look as if they are enveloping the old hall and stone Buddha, creating a charming atmosphere. Glittering glass cubes of cosmos are placed here and there in the precincts of the temple. These glass squares are decorated with cosmos flowers floating in water, looking like jewels. The Mukogawa Hige no watashi cosmos garden was established in 2003. The riverbed, which was once in disrepair, has been transformed into a magnificent cosmos garden through the efforts of local residents. It has now become a well-known cosmos garden, attracting many visitors every year. From mid-October to mid-November, when the cosmos are in full bloom, a carpet of approximately 5.5 million brightly colored cosmos will spread over the riverbed. The park is scheduled to open on October 21, 2023. The cosmos garden was started by flower enthusiasts about 30 years ago, and is a popular cosmos viewing spot that attracts many tourists and photographers from within and outside of the prefecture. The handmade, warm space and atmosphere are also attractive. About one million cosmos bloom all over the approximately 1 hectare park. Visitors can take pictures of themselves completely enveloped by the tall cosmos, which are about the height of an adult. Kochia is a unique and lovely plant with a fluffy appearance that multiplies very well. At first it is green, but in autumn its leaves turn red, a very vivid and beautiful red. The kochia at the National Hitachi Seaside Park in Ibaraki Prefecture is a popular sightseeing spot in autumn. The kochia trees growing in clusters over a large area are a spectacular sight. Since 2022, about 4,000 kochia plants have been planted in Osaka’s Expo ’70 Commemorative Park on the hill of flowers, and as of the end of September, they are gradually changing color. This fall, the “Cosmos Kochia Festa” will be held from October 1 to October 30, where visitors can enjoy autumn flowers. We are looking forward to seeing the kochia that have grown so well over the summer turn bright red when autumn arrives. There are three cute little brothers and sisters hiding among the kochia in Expo ’70 Commemorative Park. The largest kochia field in the Kansai region is sure to become a new landmark! Biwako Hakodateyama in Shiga can be enjoyed as a ski resort in winter. In summer and fall, numerous seasonal flowers delight visitors. Hakodateyama Kochia Park has 6,000 kochia trees planted along its slopes. Not only kochia but also colorful flowers are in full bloom and the park is filled with flowers. Hakodateyama is reached by gondola with a view of Lake Biwa. From the terrace with chairs on the observation deck, where a large panorama spreads out, you can see Lake Biwa and the flower garden below. Dahlias have great presence and power! Their large, bright flowers make their surroundings pop with color. They are popular not only for bouquets and arrangements, but also for gardening. The flowers come in a great variety of blooming styles, colors, and shapes. At Takarazuka Dahlia Garden, about 20,000 dahlias of 50 varieties are grown, and visitors can appreciate the colorful red, yellow, pink, and other flowers. The northern part of Takarazuka City is one of the largest dahlia bulb-producing areas in Japan, and the dahlia has been recognized as Takarazuka’s city flower. Dahlias bloom twice a year, in summer and fall. Takarazuka Dahlia Garden will be open for a limited time from mid-July to early August in summer and from early October to early November in fall. (Scheduled for October 1 – November 3, 2022. No closed days during the period) Kurokawa, Kawanishi City is located in the northernmost part of Kawanishi City and has been selected as one of the “100 best Nihon-no-sato” areas. The Kurokawa Dariya Garden is located at the foot of a nature-rich satoyama. It is operated by a local farmer. The Dariya Garden is adjacent to the Chimei Lake Campground. Approximately 1,000 dahlias of about 300 varieties are planted near the campground. The cool morning and evening temperatures make the flowers even more beautiful. Why don’t you come and see the gorgeous flowers blooming in the peaceful satoyama? The number of rose varieties is very large, ranging from 30,000 to 100,000 and even more. These flowers bloom twice a year, in spring and fall, and delight us with their many varieties and colors, including white, red, pink, yellow, and blue. About 250 varieties of roses from around the world, 10,000 of them, bloom and fragrance the entire 1.7 hectare area of the garden. The “Amatsu Otome” and “Madame Viollet,” both born in Itami, are world-famous. The antique brick masonry plantings, columns, and white walls give the building a Southern European atmosphere and enhance the beauty of the roses. Located between the Dojima River and the Tosabori River, this is one of the best places in Osaka for roses. The “Rose Path” along the river and the rose garden are filled with 3,700 roses of about 310 varieties, including modern roses and English roses. Located one stop from Osaka Umeda Station, the park is surrounded by buildings and colorful roses. You can buy a box lunch and eat it in the park, or there is a café with terrace seating on the opposite side of the rose garden where you can overlook the entire rose garden. Nearby are “Nakanoshima Children’s Book Forest,” an architecture by Tadao Ando, and “Osaka City Central Public Hall,” popular for its retro architecture, making it possible to enjoy the surrounding spots along with sightseeing in the Nakanoshima Rose Garden. How was it? Autumn in Japan is the season of colored leaves, but there are many other places where you can enjoy autumn flowers and plants. Autumn is the perfect season to go out. Enjoy the beautiful autumn scenery that can only be seen at this time of year!
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