Summer vacation is the perfect time for Japanese Tohoku festivals, and the Aomori Nebuta Festival is one of the most famous festivals in the Tohoku region. Aomori is especially beautiful in summer. Besides enjoying delicious apples, visitors can also explore scenic spots such as Oirase Stream and Lake Juniko. Although the weather is still warm, these places offer a refreshing escape from the heat. So how should you choose accommodation in Aomori? If you want to experience the Aomori Nebuta Festival, where are the recommended places to stay? This article introduces hotels I have stayed at during previous Nebuta Festival trips as well as my personal hotel picks. Some are located close to Aomori Station, and I also recommend accommodations in Towada, allowing you to experience the hot spring ryokans of Aomori, Tohoku.
Author: Gentle Evening Breeze
[Snoopy Museum Tokyo]2026 Ticket and Transportation Guide—An Incredibly Photogenic Attraction!
If you are a Snoopy fan, do not miss the adorable SNOOPY MUSEUM TOKYO when visiting Tokyo. It is the only officially licensed Snoopy-themed museum in Asia, and it was newly renovated in 2024, making it even cuter and more photogenic than before. It is recommended to purchase your Snoopy Museum tickets online in advance, which also allows you to reserve your preferred admission date and time. Inside, you can join a hands-on workshop and make your own Snoopy plush toy. After exploring the museum, do not forget to stop by PEANUTS Cafe for a cup of coffee and a comforting dessert.
[SHIBUYA SKY]Rise Above Tokyo at Shibuya’s Observation Deck and Experience the Enigmatic Pulse of the City at Night
Located in Shibuya, Tokyo, the SHIBUYA SKY observation deck has quickly become a must-visit landmark since opening in 2019. Situated at the top of the approximately 230-meter-tall Shibuya Scramble Square, it combines indoor and outdoor observation areas and offers 360-degree views over Tokyo. During the day, visitors can see landmarks such as Tokyo Skytree, Tokyo Tower, and Yoyogi Park; after nightfall, they can immerse themselves in the romantic glow of millions of city lights. As Japan fully reopened its borders in 2023, SHIBUYA SKY has felt like an almost entirely new experience for many international travelers, drawing visitors eager to experience Shibuya’s energy and Tokyo’s sweeping cityscape.
[Ibaraki Travel Guide]30 Recommended Attractions, Local Foods, and Places to Stay for a Charming Getaway in Every Season
Ibaraki Prefecture lies north of Tokyo along the Pacific Ocean. In recent years, it has become widely known for the nemophila and kochia at Hitachi Seaside Park, as well as promotional campaigns featuring Naomi Watanabe. Ibaraki is also home to Kairakuen, one of Japan's Three Great Gardens; Fukuroda Falls, one of Japan's Three Great Waterfalls; the dreamlike seaside torii gate at Oarai Isosaki Shrine; and the dazzling golden Sweet Potato Shrine. Now, let us take a direct Tigerair Taiwan flight to Ibaraki and begin an independent trip around the prefecture! This article highlights 25 recommended attractions in Ibaraki.
Complete Guide to Yoyogi Park: Cherry Blossoms, Ginkgo Trees, Markets, Nearby Attractions, and How to Get There
This guide covers transportation to Yoyogi Park, seasonal scenery, events and markets, nearby attractions, and frequently asked questions, giving you all the practical information you should know before visiting. Whether you plan to see cherry blossoms or autumn foliage, enjoy a picnic, or arrange a full-day walking itinerary, planning your trip will be easy.
Tanukikoji Shopping Street Guide: Hokkaido’s Liveliest Shopping Arcade—Must-Try Food, Souvenirs & Transportation
When traveling independently in Sapporo, Hokkaido, do not miss Tanukikoji Shopping Street, a historic arcade with more than a century of history. Developed since the Meiji era, it is Hokkaido’s largest shopping street, extending across seven blocks from 1-chome to 7-chome and containing approximately 200 shops.
Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine Guide: Cherry Blossom Tunnel, Pigeon Charms, Transportation & Admission Information
Tsurugaoka Hachimangu is the spiritual symbol of the historic city of Kamakura. Dedicated to Hachiman, the guardian deity of warriors, it is commonly regarded alongside Usa Jingu and Iwashimizu Hachimangu as one of Japan’s three great Hachiman shrines. The shrine is approximately a 10-minute walk from Kamakura Station. Its vermilion Main Shrine, the cherry blossom tunnel along Dankazura, and Genji Pond are beautiful throughout the year, while the adorable Pigeon Bell Charm is a particularly popular souvenir among Taiwanese travelers.
Oishi Park Day Trip Guide: Stunning Seasonal Flowers at Lake Kawaguchi
If you want to see Mount Fuji at Lake Kawaguchi, Oishi Park is highly recommended. Located on the lakeshore, the park offers free admission and unobstructed views of Mount Fuji. Different flowers bloom throughout the year, with purple lavender fields creating especially beautiful scenery in summer and round kochia bushes adding charm in autumn. Do not miss Oishi Park during a Lake Kawaguchi day trip. This guide covers transportation and seasonal blooming periods so you can photograph the flowers with Mount Fuji, and you can also combine the visit with a ropeway ride at Mt. Fuji Panoramic Ropeway.
Matsuya Ginza Shopping Guide: Must-Buy Fashion and Souvenir Brands, Plus the 5% Discount for International Visitors
Matsuya Ginza, a department store with more than a century of history, is one of Ginza’s essential shopping destinations. Located in the heart of Ginza and directly connected to a subway exit, it offers everything from international luxury brands and contemporary fashion to traditional crafts, premium fruit, wagashi, Japanese-style souvenirs, and household goods. International visitors can also benefit from tax-free shopping and a 5% discount. Below is a guide to the must-visit shops, recommended purchases, and floor layout at Matsuya Ginza.
Hokkaido Must-Buy Souvenirs 2026: Recommended Sapporo and Otaru Snacks, Cookies, Chocolates, Drugstore Products, Local Specialties & Keepsakes
What are the must-buy Hokkaido products on your list? When people think of Hokkaido, they often picture delicious milk, exceptionally sweet fruit, and the famous Shiroi Koibito cookies. However, Shiroi Koibito is only one of many popular souvenirs. Brands such as Rokkatei, Kitakaro, and SNOW CHEESE are also highly sought-after for their cookies and confectionery. These Hokkaido souvenirs and snacks are easy to find at souvenir shops throughout central Sapporo, along Tanukikoji Shopping Street, and at New Chitose Airport.