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03/04/2023

A Captivating Sight of 1,200 Sakura Trees: Hitome Senbon Zakura

If you're up for some adventure not too far from Tokyo, then heading up Miyagi Prefecture might be for you. Here, spots that offer lush greenery as well as interesting cultural spots - such as the yokocho alleys of Sendai, garner a visit from many. As the prefecture is located on the northeastern part of Japan, it enjoys many of nature's bounties - usually in form of fresh agricultural produce as well as scrumptious seafood.

During spring though, the trees lining Shiroishi Riverside turns to a resplendent pink, and is one of the go-to spots for Cherry Blossom viewing (花見; hanami). As much as 1,200 sakura trees make up the “Hitome Senbonzakura,” or literally a "thousand cherry blossom trees at a glance," casting a perfect foreground against the still snow-capped Mt. Zao. There's even the Sakura Matsuri (Cherry Blossom Festival) on the Ogawara side (April 6 ~ 19), where you can enjoy fresh gourmet at food stalls, a breathtaking view of the scenery past their slope car, boat rides, and many more! Plus, these sakura trees offer a different kind of beauty during the festival's night as they are illuminated throughout the bank's stretch.

For more details, access: https://hitome-senbonzakura.jp/jp/ (Japanese)

14/03/2023

The 3000-Year-Old Bathhouse at Hime Prefecture

While the season has been settling down, transitioning into Spring, hot springs are still one thing to jot down your list when visiting Matsuyama, Ehime. As it's still somewhat chilly, Dogo Onsen might be the perfect spot for you - boasting a history of 3,000 years and one of the oldest hot springs you'll find in Japan. This structure is designated as a National Important Cultural Property, even garnering a points in the Michelin Green Guide Japon as a 3-star attraction! The Onsen Honkan (main building) has since been operating from 1984.

Sadly though, the three-story, wooden architecure is scheduled for renovations until late 2024, but Tama-no-Yu, located on the 1F, is still open for visitors looking for a quick onsen dip. The 2nd and 3rd floor resting lounges will be closed to the public.

Shutterbugs that are a fan of Ghibli films may notice the building for its appearance in Spirited Away. Some parts are in renovation right now, but you could still take a shot of its eastern side if you're up for those memorable shots.

07/03/2023

Akita's Cuddly Companion during the Winter

Akita has many up its sleeve when for a very snug winter. Adrenaline-pumping festivals, piping hot gourmet, cozy attractions, and as well as heartwarming events are one to satisfy your stay. One example of the latter is housed at Akita's Yuzawa City, where the Akita Inukko Festival is located. The Akita Inu is known for its fierce yet loyal qualities, even making the the perfect cuddly companion to the Matagis (traditional winter hunters of the Tohoku region). As such, their long history is honored through snow sculpture at the "Akita Inukko Festival."

Here, adorable snow sculptures, parades, local crafts, and gourmet grab the attention of people and their cuddly dogs alike. Sadly, this year's just wrapped up but you can catch them during the second Saturday of February next year. In the meantime, why not visit the Akita Dog Museum and the Akita Dog Visitor Center at Odate City? The station's unmissable as there's a family of these lovely dogs waiting by, plus, you'll spot more across the area!

For an even comfortable sojourn by Akita, join us at our newly opened WAttention House for traditional Japanese-inn stays plus accommodations! We're looking how hands-on experiences, farm visits, and workshops can be integrated with your stay too, for experiences most memorable. Check out our links below for more info:

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14/02/2023

Japanese Macaques Chilling at the Base of Nagano's Hell Valley

Nagano is one of the candidate areas during winter as it's easily accessible via shinkansen from Japan's capital. Each trip is bound to be a memorable one as the landscape changes each season. The prefecture is also dotted with shrines, temples, parks, and other cultural landmarks that will leave your curiosity engaged!

Snowboard and ski resorts are one destination tourists are eager to visit in Nagano, however, onsen (hot springs) too share a fair attention. In particular, there's a dipping location for our adorable Japanese macaques - the Jigokudani Monkey Park.

Years ago, the monkeys saw humans dip by the surrounding ryokan (Japanese inn) onsens nearby; they, too, copied such behavior. In 1964, a conservation area was made for them, wherein these snow monkeys would come from the cliffs above and take a comfortable dip at the hot springs specially provided for them. Today, you can catch them taking long comfy dips at the hot spring during winter (up to March), or observe them roam freely around the park.

07/02/2023

Our Furry Pals, too, Love Onsen (Hot Spring)!

During the winter season, one go-to spot you might opt for is the onsen. While most known spots are dedicated to humans, one quirky version you'll find is hot springs tailored for capybaras. Our adorable rodent pals do not do well in cold climate, however, a zookeeper working at Izu Shaboten Zoo in Shizuoka prefecture found out once that they can survive harsh winters if kept at the comfort of an onsen. Since pioneering said practice in 1982, everyone can now spot many onsens keeping capybaras cozy. Places to catch them lulling by the hot springs include Izu Shaboten Zoological Park, Nagasaki Bio Park, Saitama Children's Animal Park, Nasu Animal Kingdom, and Ishikawa Zoo.

17/01/2023

One of Akita's Comfort Food: Rice Skewers (+ Hotpot) !

Akita, being surrounded by lush nature, produces many tastes to satisfy your cravings. One such soul food to warm you during the winter is the Kiritanpo or pounded rice skewers. This comfort food served along with the oh-so savory "Hinai-Jidori" chicken along with vegetables in a hotpot around a traditional open hearth makes for a memorable trip when visiting Odate.

While the origin of its name is up for debate, many say that its name is a portmanteau of two words: 'kiri' referring to cut, and, 'tanpo' pointing to short rice plant/something resemblant of a cattail reed. Odate is home and birthplace to this celebrated delicacy; farmers holed up in the mountains for charcoal making and logging mashed leftover rice and skewered them as a viand partnered along their chicken hotpots.

Hungry for more Akita tidbits? Hail by our miroku・AKITA page for finds surrounding the prefecture! Also, check out our newly opened WAttention House for Japanese-style lodgings/accommodations - warm encounters and memorable stays await everyone here~

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12/01/2023

Chichibu's Three Great Icicles

January spells the coldest season and Japan, and during this time, the Chichibu region of Saitama becomes home to one of nature's wondrous spectacles. The area is known for its natural scenery just easily accessible from Tokyo, and here, the frosty temperatures help shape what is known as the prefecture's "three great icicles."

One of them is at Yokoze Town - Ashigakubo Icicles - which is the largest of them all. The icicle park starts from a torii gate, where you'll be lead to a valley covered in a stunning display of its once flowing streams. The Onouchi Icicles is famous for it being man-made but still equally breathtaking. If you're a fan of both naturally and artificially made ones, then the icicle of Misotsuchi's the spot for you.

Day trips will allow you to visit the neighboring villages and tourist spots, but don't miss out on night visits too - as these are the time they become illuminated in wonderful colors for those gorgeous shots!

29/12/2022

One way to celebrate the New Year in Japan - Hatsumode!

During New Year, one annual tradition you'll see being observed by Japanese people is the Hatsumode, or the first shrine visit they make to pray for good fortune. The word is a combination "Hatsu," meaning first, and "mode," referring to a shrine visit. Here, people buy their new "omamori" or good luck charms, then surrender old ones where they are then cremated afterwards. There's also the "omikuji," a kind of fortune-telling told in form of "lot" or "slips." Some of the popular spots for Hatsumode include Tokyo’s Meiji shrine and Sensoji Temple, as well as Kyoto's Fushimi Inari Shrine and Kiyomizu-dera Temple. Make sure to bring a 5 (five) yen coin too - as these are the ones most commonly tossed into the collection box (or saisen-bako) for fateful encounters!

20/12/2022

A Seemingly Badminton Game during the Edo Period

Hagoita (羽子板) are traditional Japanese wooden paddles used in
hanetsuki (羽子突き) a sort of battledore that were a thing among girls. Hanetsuki was once a traditional sight during the New Year holidays, along with a prayer for good health among people. During 17th century though, these wooden paddles were no more mere rackets, as it started to become a popular gifts to wish loved ones good fortune as well as a present for newborn girls, both set up as decoration for new year.

For those wanting one, Sumida Ward's the spot if you're looking into buying hagoita. The ward is famous for Tokyo Skytree but if you stroll down its alleys, you are bound to find a more elaborate paddles - oshie-hagoita - workshops. Motifs vary from Furisode up to Kabuki ones. While a famous decoration during the New Year (like the big ones you'll find at Asakusa), oshie-hagoita are found during seasonal events too like during the "Tanabata" festival.

13/12/2022

Obama's all About Seafood!

Something's fishy in the town of Obama City located in Fukui Prefecture. And while many would think that it was named after the former U.S. President, this would be a misnomer. The place Obama (小浜) has nothing to do with the former but you'll find locals poking fun at the joke as you'll find them using this to promote the town's tourism.

Obama City shares a spotlight, however, when talking about seafood or mackerels in particular. Back then when Kyoto was the capital of Japan, Wakasa was known for its bay as it was a source of treasured seafood as well as salt. This region earned the title of a "miketsukuni," an area that directly supplies or provide food offerings to the then Imperial Court. Ingredients brought from Obama to Kyoto then traversed this route. Today, such routes are collectively called as Saba Kaido or Mackerel Highway.

You can taste Obama City's well-loved mackerel by visiting the Wakasa Obama Fish Center to enjoy the prized delicacy of the locals - freshly caught ones or even the fermented 'heshiko' mackerel. Similarly, a tour to the Miketsukuni Wakasa Obama Food Culture Museum would be equally enjoyable too, as you'll learn how to make handmade traditional wood lacquer chopsticks there, one of which the city is famous too!

06/12/2022

Tohoku's Winter Phenomena: An Eerie Yet Captivating Sight of Snow Monsters!

The Tohoku region becomes home to some of the most breathtaking scenes especially in winter. Take these "Juhyo" (樹氷), or better known as snow monsters as the locals would refer to them. During the icy season, harsh Siberian winds descend upon Japan's northern landscape, blanketing trees in frost that make them look like an army of snow monsters. The most famous spots where this phenomena appears include Mt. Hakkoda (Aomori), also a great place to unwind for ski enthusiasts, Zao (Yamagata), with the area around offering comfy onsen dips, and Mt. Moriyoshi (Akita), equipped with gondola that'll let you enjoy the stunning scenery from above. Those heading to the latter, Akita, are in for heartwarming encounters too, as skis, resorts, and onsens, you name it, probably have their own mascot or resident dogs to greet you. A warm winter indeed!



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29/11/2022

Warming Up Your Winter with Amazake!

One drink you'll find popular during the winter season is amazake or sweet sake. While the name may imply that it would be alcoholic, you'll find the quite opposite as most are made from koji or 'Aspergillus Oryzae' with steamed rice and water - a perfect guilt-free drink packed with probiotics and nutrients. For those who like a little kick, the low-alcohol version uses sake 'kasu' (or lees, the leftover during the sake extraction process), mixed with steamed rice and water.
You'll find this beverage easily at most convenience stores or supermarkets, as well as at festivals and shrines.

Tokyo holds one historic bit that shows a snippet of how it ranks number one as most amazake sold though. Amazake Yokocho (甘酒横丁; reads as "sweet sake alley") got its name as there was a one bustling forefront sweet sake shop that greeted passers-by at the entrance of the street. It is one scenic place you may want to visit along Nihonbashi prior to buying snacks, sweets, and treats to keep you full during the holidays while in full view of Tokyo's old and new.

22/11/2022

As the temperature takes a comfortable dip in Japan heading to the autumn to winter season, you'll find plenty of places having dishing own their gourmet to warm one's body and soul. Famous establishment whip out treats making use of chestnut, sweet potato, winter squash, and even persimmons. But have you heard of maple leaves (momiji) make for a munch as well?

Head towards Minoh City, in Osaka, for a maple leaf delicacy you'll find popular with the locals! While the city is known for its striking autumn scenery, shrines & temples, bustling nature home to thousands of flora and insects, and as well as a splendid park and falls within, you'll find that the path leading to the falls are lined with momiji tempura vendors.

These tempura-battered leaves date more back than a millennium, or as the story goes. Momiji leaves that are ripe yellow with prominent veins are generally chosen, and then preserved in salt for a full year. They are then coated in batter and fried - some batters are seasoned with sugar or even has sesame seeds added to them. Probably a interesting snack along with your "momijigari," or "autumn-leaves hunting" trip?

15/11/2022

Riding Along the Tracks of Akita's Odate-Kosaka Scenic Views

Wondering how a former railway area can breathe life into several depots and cultural properties as it is turned into a theme park? Visiting the Kosaka Railroad Rail Park may offer you something to keep your Japan trip unique. Here, trains that has served its purpose dot the site - from the same nostalgic train station as your gateway to the theme park up to diesel locomotive driving and railbike riding experiences, there's no shortage of interesting experiences a train fan shouldn't miss out. And oh, did we mention there's the Akebono sleeper train too where you could stay your night in?

Travelers can also visit a neighboring attraction, the Odate-Kosaka Rail Bike that takes you on a scenic tour on top of the abandoned tracks on the decommissioned Kosaka Railway. Enjoy the breathtaking views of Akita's nature, mountains, as well as the Nagaki River!

08/11/2022

Nestled in Nature: Tochigi Prefecture's Nikko City

Nikko in Tochigi is full of temples, wonderful scenery, and has sort of a majestic atmosphere to it as you'll see past its nature and town. Some of its well-known spots include The Great Waterfalls of Oku-Nikko, and Mt. Nantaisan; during winter, the onsen town of Yunishigawa also includes a Kamakura festival seen through the bright small kamakura that dot the white landscape. When talking about food, however, Nikko takes pride on its yuba (as well as its soba!).

Also known as tofu skin, it is made from when simmering fresh soymilk; a sort of a beancurd that forms on the liquid surface. There's an array of dishes that could be enjoyed from it, namely, tofu skin rolls seen in yuba soba, and even as sashimi. Deep-fried yuba, Yuba dumplings, and even Yuba spring rolls are some of these that you can try when in Nikko, too!

01/11/2022

Want to experience a fun-filled trip not too far from Tokyo? One choice for travelers is Chiba as it is dotted with parks, shrines, stadiums, museums, and malls that offer a peek into urban or rural areas. Furthermore, its great outdoor merit attention from everyone - such as that of the Nomizo Falls (濃溝の滝) tucked in the city of Kimitsu.

Its scenery looks straight out of a fairy tale book, with hues of yellow, green, and blue giving a inviting tone to the spot. The humble falls, located in the valley, was a result of drilling the cave to provide water to irrigate the rice fields hundred of years ago. Inside, there's a rock resembling a turtle too; the area is referred to as "Kameiwa no Dokutsu" (亀岩の洞窟) or, "Turtle Rock Cave."

During the autumn, the lush verdure turns into golden leaves and canopies. For shutterbugs, catching the view during the early mornings (until 8:30 a.m.) is recommended to make the most out of your shots!

31/10/2022

[ miroku・AKITA Updates!] Miroku project animation project begins!!

We are pleased to announce that our miroku project is moving towards producing a ANIME called "Miroku Dosojin-sama ♡ Project" (ミロク道祖神様❤プロジェクト) !!

----- Dosojin is a Japanese deity that remains in the culture of Japanese villages.
Miroku, a senior in high school, is an ordinary schoolgirl who falls into a pit on a mountain road during a club training camp and loses consciousness then when she wakes up......

Follow our twitter for more storyline and updates!
https://twitter.com/AkitaMiroku

Other projects for Miroku
- " WAttention House " where you can enjoy countryside Japan life at our guest house with a pure natual waterfrom the undergroud.
More info : https://www.facebook.com/mirokuAKITA/

- "Wonderland Japan", an online shopping site makes the local
delights is avaiable outside Japan. One of the produces are the famous
Sake, "Chitosezakari" and healthy drinkable oil "Egoma".
More info : https://wonderlandjapan.com/

日本中にこの場所を知っている人は、まだ、ほとんどいないかもしれません。 でも、いつかは世界中の人が憧れる、みんなの”心のふるさと”にしたい―。 未だ知られてない魅力を発掘し、発信する、「＠miroku・AKITAプロ.....

25/10/2022

One of the tranquil and scenic spots to enjoy during the fall season, Ruriko-in Temple is one hidden gem that allow you to breathe in what make these autumn leaves fascinating to all. Alight at Yase-Hieizan-guchi Station (八瀬比叡山口駅) in Kyoto and walk for 5 minutes to access this temple. Once here, you will be greeted by a dreamy sight filled with lush nature, majestic architecture, and a striking illumination at night (during November ~December).

Ruriko-in Temple's Ruri-no-niwa garden, features a most well-beloved view on the second floor as it allows one to view the beautiful autumn "kōyō" leaves in perfect symmetry as its silhouette reflects of the glossy and polished interiors. Visitors can also reel in the atmosphere along with matcha tea on the first floor.

The temple is only open to visitors on limited days on spring (April ~ June) and autumn (November ~ Early December) - make sure to plan your trip accordingly!


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18/10/2022

With the autumn season fast approaching, the land of the rising sun has plenty to offer. Visitors can enjoy the mellow atmosphere along with photogenic spots that offer a breath of change to one's day.

A candidate location to look out for not far from Tokyo is Saitama. Head towards Chichibu famous for its Meisen silk - you can rent out a kimono perfect for going around the prefecture as you visit spots like the Moomin Valley Park and Metsä Village (Hanno City). You can also don on a more sporty gear for the neighboring Miyazawa lake perfect for trails and treks that offer breathtaking views of Chichibu Mountains. Top your day off with a refreshing dip at the surrounding hot spring facilities!

13/10/2022

Akita's Spooky Season: the Namahage Experience

While some countries may promote the Halloween season when late October is fast approaching, Akita has something similar to celebrate but during the wintry season: the Namahage folk ritual. This is observed on New Year's Eve and you'll find the locals wearing their knitted straw along with frightful masks roaming the neighborhood and knocking on your doorstep.

Akita's society has a long history surrounding the agricultural sector. With rice paddies and fields dotting the prefecture, you'll find that it has numerous festivals or events that promote bountiful harvests/crop prosperity. One of them includes worshipping the Namahage unique to the Oga Peninsula (Oga city) to invite good fortune and ward off evil.

This folk ritual is celebrated as a reminder to locals that slack off during the winter season. As the atmosphere goes cold and people idle by the firepit, demon-like god known as Namahage visit them - a reminder for them to quit idling and work hard. Nowadays they serve as a reminder for children to be good, knocking by the doorstep, a sort of a reverse trick-or-treat.

Visiting Akita? Head on to WAttention's miroku・AKITA page for experiences and discoveries most memorable!
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Also, stay tuned as we open accommodation for everyone at WAttention House coming shortly this Autumn 2022 to Akita. We'll see you there!

11/10/2022

The Mysterious Yakushima Island

Mysteriously eerie but astonishingly captivating, Yakushima located in Kagoshima is one of Japan's first UNESCO Natural Heritage Site. Its cedar forests are a testament of beauty that stood time, with the Jōmon Sugi (縄文杉) being marked as one of the impressive cedars to greet curious travelers. This tree is estimated to be thousand of years old and dates back as much as the Jōmon Period.

The mossy habitat offers a hint to the island's diverse climate: it is characterized by both subtropical and cold temperate zones with areas often supplied by rainfall. Trips are not solitary as you'll find the indigenous red-bottomed macaques and Japanese deer peeking from afar (if you're lucky)!

Sightseeing spots include waterfalls like the Ohko-no-taki, Yakushima Toudai Lighthouse, Yakusugi Museum, Nagata Inakahama Beach, Yudomari Onsen, plus parks/gardens all around the island. There's no shortage of adrenaline rush too as you could hike, kayak, dive/snorkel, or do stand up paddleboarding all within Yakushima!

04/10/2022

If you're looking for past towns showcasing the beauty of eras bygone, Nagano is one to lookout for. Its Kiso Valley in particular showcases such place with architecture sandwiched in between lush nature; Nakasendo's Narai Post Town is known for its wood craftsmanship and beautiful lacquerware, perfect momentos for a memorable trip.

Often referred to as "Narai of a Thousand Houses (奈良井千軒)," its connecting trails that reveal the surrounding nature's hidden charms and quiet atmosphere, such as the Yabuhara-Narai Trail and Magome-Tsumago trail, are a nice choice to enjoy the tranquil nature. Upon ascent, you can enjoy accomodation at one of Narai's many traditional inns (ryokan) along with this coming season's autumn leaves, with a Japanese beer, for a calm retreat from the busy metro.

27/09/2022

One thing's for sure when talking about Gunma Prefecture— Onsen (or hot springs). These are one of the plenty ways to spend your time during the autumn season, as the temperatures cools down to a refreshing degree. Kusatsu Onsen ranks among the best; its highly acidic waters are antimicrobial in nature. Furthermore, the picturesque atmosphere along with golden autumn leaves is sure to make your trip memorable.

There's also the Yoshigadaira Wetlands in the area perfect for shutterbugs and hikers alike. Watch groundcovers, shrubs, and trees turn into wonderful shades of autumn!