In Koka City, Shiga Prefecture, there is a beautiful area where 600 cherry blossom trees line both banks of a clear stream. It's a tranquil spot, perfect for leisurely cherry blossom viewing, and the view from the center of the pedestrian bridge is fantastic.

The filming location is "Takatori Castle" in Kamikoshima, Takatoricho, Takaichi District, Nara Prefecture. "Takatori Castle" is associated with Toyotomi Hidenaga, one of the Toyotomi brothers, and is counted among Japan's three great mountain castles, making it quite a hidden gem. What I want to introduce here is the "Kunimi Yagura Ruins" of Takatori Castle. The Kunimi Yagura offers a panoramic view of the "Asuka-Fujiwara Capital Area," which is set to become a World Heritage site. This photo captures "Mt. Unebiyama (where the Mausoleum of Emperor Jinmu is located)," "Fujiwara-kyo ruins," "Asukamura," and "Mt. Nijo (a symbol of the ancient capital Nara for the people of Nara)." Under good conditions, you can also see "Mount Hiei in Kyoto" and "Mount Rokko in Kobe." The view, especially during the time from sunset to twilight, is magnificent. Have you noticed it? In the distance to the right of Mt. Nijo, the skyline of Osaka's high-rise buildings is visible. One of those buildings is "Abeno Harukas." Getting to the "Takatori Castle Ruins" involves a mountain trail hike. Please check the information and prepare suitable clothing and gear for a short mountain climb to enjoy your visit. Additionally, Takatori Castle has no lighting facilities, and at night it becomes pitch dark, which can be dangerous. It's necessary to have lighting equipment like headlamps. Last year, the Takatori New Tourism Association held a night walk tour. Please consider participating in such events.

In the sweltering heat of the rainy season, I was drawn down into the valley by the sound of the clear stream and a cool breeze. Upon reaching the valley floor, I found myself in another world! Before me lay a fantastical landscape! At the information center at the valley entrance, I was informed that "Due to fallen trees and safety concerns, access to the upstream area leading to the Chockstone is currently prohibited." It was a bit disappointing, but there's always next time!! Location: Oita Prefecture, Yufu City

This is the illumination of Nishi-no-Kawara Onsen, located deep within Kusatsu Onsen. It's a mystical place that sees fewer visitors at night, making it a hidden gem. It will be a great photo spot!

Iwayado Park In summer, it is cool like a summer resort, and in autumn, the foliage is beautiful.

Nestled along the rugged coastline of Otaru, Hokkaido, stands the remarkable Sea Lion Rock, a lesser-known gem that remains largely undiscovered by international visitors. In winter, the surrounding waters become a gathering place for hundreds of Steller sea lions, creating a spectacular wildlife scene against the dramatic backdrop of the Sea of Japan. As the seasons change, summer brings flocks of black-tailed gulls that fill the skies and cliffs with life. Rising behind this iconic rock formation is the striking red-and-white Shukutsu Observatory, visible prominently above the coastline and extending toward the vast Sea of Japan. Together, the observatory, the wildlife, and the rugged seascape create a breathtaking panorama that captures the essence of northern Japan's natural beauty. While Otaru is often celebrated for its canals and historic streets, this hidden coastal viewpoint offers a different perspective—one where nature, history, and scenery converge.

Dining inside the hangar is an irresistible experience for airplane enthusiasts. The recommended omurice is a type of "Japanese Western cuisine" that originated in Japan and is now one of the elements of Cool Japan spreading worldwide. Although there are gates and security checks, the surprisingly low crowd inside, thanks to this "high threshold," made it a true hidden gem. Anyone can enter (no need to board a flight). The location is Chofu Airport in Tokyo.

The "hidden gem" of Tokyo Station is the rooftop of KITTE, located right in front of the Yaesu South Exit. Surprisingly, it's not very crowded, making it a favorite spot where you can relax with a coffee in hand. As you watch the people passing by, you can quietly sense each individual's pace.

Goto City, Fukuejima. An endless blue sky and a winding road. As you walk while feeling the breeze, you can forget the hustle and bustle of everyday life and enjoy a moment that lightens your heart.

A quietly extending passageway beneath Shinjuku. With few people around, it feels like a hidden gem, separated from the hustle and bustle of the city. In the calm light and reflections, there was an atmosphere reminiscent of a passage leading to a secret base.

A mosque located near Yoyogi-Uehara Station, at the border of Shinjukuku and Shibuyaku in Tokyo Metropolis. Visiting is free, and even on holidays, there are few people. You can also enjoy Turkish coffee at the neighboring restaurant. As I looked up at the dome, I was enveloped in a strange sensation, as if I were peering into the "structure of the universe."

The clear stream flowing beside Daio Wasabi Farm in Nagano. Surrounded by fresh greenery, the waterside offered a refreshing feeling just by looking at it.

We visited Ogijima, an island with nature and art in Takamatsu City, Kagawa Prefecture, as a family and took a walk to the edge of the island (the walking ark). It was a hot day, making the walk challenging, but we had a great time.

The pagoda of Tō‑ji, blending into the blue, found from the station.

This tea plantation, located at an altitude of 300 meters, is referred to as the "Tea Fields in the Sky" or "Machu Picchu of Gifu." After a 10-minute walk up the trail, you can enjoy a panoramic view of the tea fields from the observation deck. The photo was taken from the observation deck. Kasuga Rikugō Kamigana, Ibigawacho, Ibi District, Gifu Prefecture.

At the end of the gently winding path, a view that seems to connect with the sky unfolds at Mt. Oomuro. Each step taken while holding hands feels as if you are getting closer to the sky. It is a hidden gem of breathtaking scenery that is still not widely known, where your heart can truly unwind.

In the corridor of Aobayuen, seasonal flowers trapped in transparent spheres shimmer under the summer light. A moment where I couldn't help but stop my feet in front of the colorful world that unfolds above. This captures the fantastical "hidden summer scenery" that exists right beside our everyday lives.

The non-flying airplane and local train The Sangi Railway Hokusei Line, one of the few narrow-gauge railways in Japan today. Along the line, seasonal flowers bloom, making it a popular railway, but the point about the non-flying airplane is a place known only to a few. Inabe City, Mie Prefecture April 2026

A blue paradise spreads just beside the residential area of Kitamoto City, Saitama Prefecture. What lies ahead, pointed out by a finger, is a small yet unknown thrill. This city offers a unique scenery that can be encountered in everyday life.

Crimson clover in Katsurao Village, Fukushima Prefecture. Although the evacuation order was lifted temporarily due to the nuclear accident, cultivation began as green manure to improve the soil of the devastated farmland. By incorporating crimson clover into the soil as green manure, it is said that the fertility of the farmland will be restored. As a result, photos of the vibrant red fields began to spread gradually on social media, and this initiative started to gain media attention. The Tokyo Camera Club and Katsurao Village are collaborating to set up three photo spots with the support of Michi-no-Eki Sera, aiming to make it a highlight for tourism. If you take photos at all three locations and show them at the Katsurao Village Reconstruction Exchange Center Azalea, you will receive seeds of crimson clover. It is a symbol of the reconstruction of Katsurao Village. This year's photo spots were available until the 24th, but be sure to check them out next year. The planting locations change every year, so it's convenient to check at the Katsurao Village Reconstruction Exchange Center Azalea before you go. The photo is of a "sofa."

Crimson Clover in Katsurao Village, Fukushima Prefecture After the temporary evacuation was lifted due to the nuclear accident, cultivation began as a green manure to improve the soil of the devastated farmland. By incorporating Crimson Clover into the soil as green manure, the fertility of the farmland is said to recover. Then, photos of the vast red fields gradually spread on social media, and this initiative started to gain media coverage. Tokyo Camera Club and Katsurao Village collaborated to establish photo spots (three locations) with the support of Michi-no-Eki Sera, aiming to promote tourism. If you take photos at all three locations and show them at the Katsurao Village Reconstruction Exchange Hall Azalea, you will receive seeds of Crimson Clover. It is a symbol of the reconstruction of Katsurao Village. This year's photo spots were available until the 24th, but please come next year. The planting locations change every year, so it's convenient to check at the Katsurao Village Reconstruction Exchange Hall Azalea before you go. The photo is of a "swing."

Crimson Clover in Katsuraomura, Fukushima Prefecture Although the evacuation order due to the nuclear accident has been lifted temporarily, cultivation began as a green manure to improve the soil of the damaged farmland. By incorporating Crimson Clover into the soil as green manure, the fertility of the farmland is said to be restored. Soon, photos of the vibrant red fields began to spread on social media, and this initiative was featured in the media as well. Tokyo Camera Club and Katsuraomura collaborated to set up three photo spots with the cooperation of Michi-no-Eki Sera, aiming to promote tourism. If you take photos at all three spots and show them at the Katsurao Village Reconstruction Exchange Center Azalea, you will receive seeds of Crimson Clover. It is a symbol of the reconstruction of Katsuraomura. This year's photo spots were available until the 24th, but be sure to visit next year. The planting locations change every year, so it's convenient to check at the Katsurao Village Reconstruction Exchange Center Azalea before you go. The photo is titled 'Piano.'

I took this on Oki Island. The wind was blowing gently.

Akita Yokote City. Here are photos of spring, which has finally arrived. I felt the beauty and dignified presence of a single cherry blossom that has overcome the heavy snowfall.

I went to Uradome Coast in Tottori Prefecture! It was the first time I saw such a transparent sea, and it was very healing. I really hope you go see it! The croquettes sold at the Roadside Station in Iwami were also very delicious!☺️

The view of the fishing port seen from Armor Station in Kami Town, Hyogo Prefecture, was breathtakingly beautiful.

This is Horokanaicho in Hokkaido. You can encounter nostalgic rural landscapes that tickle your memory.

This is Horokanaicho in Hokkaido. You can encounter nostalgic rural landscapes that tickle your memory.

A special season unique to spring has begun at Enoura in Kanagawa Prefecture. About an hour from Tokyo. During this time, you can witness the "spawning of the Japanese common squid" in the waters of Japan. Usually drifting quietly in the sea, the squids begin to gather in shallow waters for spawning as spring arrives. Underwater, a unique tension and a quiet presence of life spread throughout. Divers can observe the squids heading to their spawning grounds and the eggs laid on branches up close. Spawning has just begun. Over the next few weeks, small lives will develop within the eggs. In a few weeks, you will also be able to see tiny baby squids swimming inside the eggs. Watching underwater feels like peeking into a small story within the sea. Moreover, this scenery can only be seen during the short period of spring. It's not at an aquarium, not in a video, but a seasonal landscape you can experience in the actual waters of Japan. On this day, we encountered clownfish, sea slugs, and even "underwater Doraemon." It's another side of Japan that you won't find just by visiting Tokyo or Kyoto. A day spent at the sea, a little away from the city, will surely become a special travel memory. Enoura is a diving area that can be visited as a day trip from Tokyo. Hokule'a Shonan offers small-group diving tours suitable for beginners. They also provide English support, making it popular among travelers from abroad and foreign residents in Japan. Come to the spring-only waters of Japan. Why not go see the quiet drama of life? 📍 Enoura (Kanagawa Prefecture) 🚃 Day trip possible from Tokyo 🤿 Small group tours with English support #Near Tokyo #Day trip #Extraordinary experience #Japanese common squid #Squid spawning