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Korea
Hong Jong-hyun、Kim YoungKwang
Hong Jong-hyun and Kim YoungKwang,,,Two up-and-coming, hottest models-turned-actors who are called “Avengers of the modelling world.”
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Taiwan
Sam Tseng、James, a master of creative cuisine
Sam Tseng is a TV talent, radio personality, MC and actor. James is an extraordinary chef with excellent sense of taste.
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Taiwan
Jessica Oey、Julianne Chu
Jessica and Julianne are popular caster, reporter in Taiwan. They are specializes in gourmet report and language.
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China
Li Weijia
Li Weijia regularly appears in the long hit programs titled “Happy Camp” and “Encyclopedia” produced by Hunan TV which is regarded as No.1 variety show maker. It exceeded 2 million followers on Weibo.
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Thailand
Noon-Woranut Wongsawan
Noon is an actress. Her SNS exceeded 2.7 million followers. Noon-Woranut Wongsawan is also well known by non-SNS users, people in the 50 and older age bracket.
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Hong Kong
William Chak
William Chak, an actor belonging to TVB, won the Grand Prix at the Mr. Asia Contest in 2005 and Mr. Hong Kong Contest in 2010.
(Korea)Hong Jong-hyun、Kim YoungKwang
「Hakata Station」
We bought a delicious-looking ekiben (railway station lunch box).
Hakata Sta. / Fukuoka Hakata-ku「Hakata Station」
Just before boarding “Yufu 3” at Hakata Station.
My rail trip finally starts. I’m so excited!
Hakata Sta. / Fukuoka Hakata-ku「Yufuin Station」
Preparing money for shopping and eating.
Yufuin Sta. / Yufu-city「B-speak」
Eating a delicious cake in front of a store.
Yufuin Sta. / Yufu-city「Milch」
We took a rest, eating pudding and cheese cake.
Yufuin Sta. / Yufu-city「Bakudanyaki Honpo」
I finally found the store! In front of Bakudanyaki Honpo.
Yufuin Sta. / Yufu-city「Square in front of Onto Community Center」
I found a nice place where I played Innocently as if I went back to my childhood!
Yufuin Sta. / Yufu-city「Café La Ruche」
Having a cup of coffee and mango-flavored shaved ice at a nice café inside the MARC CHAGALL MUSEUM beside Lake Kinrin, Yufuin.
Yufuin Sta. / Yufu-city「Lake Kinrin」
With beautiful Lake Kinrin in the background.
Yufuin Sta. / Yufu-city「GAHAMA terrace(Hotel)」
My first bathing in an onsen. I’m determined to come here again in the next winter.
Beppudaigaku Sta. / Beppu-city「Beppu Shoningahama beach」
I took a morning stroll, going out from the backyard of the hotel.
Beppudaigaku Sta. / Beppu-city「Beppu Shoningahama beach」
At the beautiful seaside
Beppudaigaku Sta. / Beppu-city「Beppu seaside sand bath」
It was my first bathing in a sand bath.
Beppudaigaku Sta. / Beppu-city「Kurokawa Onsen Fureai Hiroba (Friendship Plaza)」
I finally arrived at the Friendship Plaza in Kurokawa onsen resort area.
Aso Sta. / Aso-gun Minamioguni-cho「Kurokawa Onsen Face bath」
I ventured to do it, as it seemed good for my skin.
Aso Sta. / Aso-gun Minamioguni-cho「Kurokawa Onsen」
Strolling around the onsen town.
Aso Sta. / Aso-gun Minamioguni-cho「Kumamon」
Taking a picture of us two together with Kumamon was more fun than playing Pokemon GO.
Aso Sta. / Aso-gun Minamioguni-cho「Kurokawa OnsenMiyama-sansou (hotel)」
Please make yourself comfortable and get rid of your everyday fatigue at the hotel surrounded by nature – river, fields and footpath filled with song of birds.
Aso Sta. / Aso-gun Minamioguni-cho「The Hill of Oshitoishi, Aso」
I’ve wanted to take a picture of me like a scene of “Attack on Titan!”
Aso Sta. / Aso-gun Minamioguni-cho「The Hill of Oshitoishi, Aso」
I prayed that a happy time will come around for me.
Aso Sta. / Aso-gun Minamioguni-cho
(Taiwan)Sam Tseng、James, a master of creative cuisine
「A streetcar in Kagoshima City」
Kagoshimachuo Sta. / Kagoshima-city「Shabu-shabu at Nanshukan (hot spa inn) 」
Photographing staffs
Tenmonkan dori Sta. / Kagoshima-city「Shabu-shabu at Nanshukan (hot spa inn) 」
Tenmonkan dori Sta. / Kagoshima-city「Stall village」
Kagoshimachuo Sta. / Kagoshima-city「Stall village」
Kagoshimachuo Sta. / Kagoshima-city「Stall village」
Cheers!
Kagoshimachuo Sta. / Kagoshima-city「Stall village」
Kagoshimachuo Sta. / Kagoshima-city「Satsumaji」
Reservation is required for Sakezushi (fermented sushi made with lots of local sake)
Tenmonkan dori Sta. / Kagoshima-city「Satsumaji」
Tenmonkan dori Sta. / Kagoshima-city「Shiroyama Park」
A view of the city and Sakurajima
Ijuin Sta. / Kagoshima-city「Statue of Takamori Saigo」
Asahi dori Sta. / Kagoshima-city「Ichi Ni San 」
Tenmonkan dori Sta. / Kagoshima-city「Suteki Steak restaurant」
Teppanyaki-style restaurant with counter seats which provides steak at a reasonable price.
Tenmonkan dori Sta. / Kagoshima-city「Sakurajima Noryo (enjoy cool breeze) ferry boat」
Fireworks on the water
Suizokukanguchi Sta. / Kagoshima-city「Sakurajima Noryo (enjoy cool breeze) ferry boat」
Fireworks on the water
Suizokukanguchi Sta. / Kagoshima-city「Sakurajima Noryo (enjoy cool breeze) ferry boat」
Kagoshima special bento
Suizokukanguchi Sta. / Kagoshima-city「Kato Shrine and Kumamoto Castle」
“iWalker” in front of a kitchen car
Kumamotojoshiyakushomae Sta. / Kumamoto-city「Kato Shrine and Kumamoto Castle」
“iWalker” after serving the food
Kumamotojoshiyakushomae Sta. / Kumamoto-city
(Taiwan)Jessica Oey、Julianne Chu
「Kumamoto Castle」
Kumamotojoshiyakushomae Sta. / Kumamoto-city「Misumi Station」
Misumi Sta. / Uki-chity「Amakusa」
Dolphin Watch (against the sea)
Amakusa Apt. / Kumamoto Sta. / Amakusa-city「Amakusa」
Dolphin Watch (on board)
Amakusa Apt. / Kumamoto Sta. / Amakusa-city「Amakusa」
Dolphins
Amakusa Apt. / Kumamoto Sta. / Amakusa-city「Hotel Yumeshizuku」
Room
Kumamoto Apt. / Kumamoto Sta. / Aso-gun「Hotel Yumeshizuku」
Onsen (hot spa)
Kumamoto Apt. / Kumamoto Sta. / Aso-gun「Hotel Yumeshizuku」
Kaiseki ryori (simple meal served before a ceremonial tea)
Kumamoto Apt. / Kumamoto Sta. / Aso-gun「SL (steam locomotive) Hitoyoshi」
Car’s interior of SL Hitoyoshi
Kumamoto Sta. / Kumamoto-city「SL (steam locomotive) Hitoyoshi」
Ogottsu O-bento (lunch box)
Kumamoto Sta. / Kumamoto-city「SL (steam locomotive) Hitoyoshi」
Commemorative photo with SL Hitoyoshi
Kumamoto Sta. / Kumamoto-city「SL (steam locomotive) Hitoyoshi」
Isshouchi Station
Isshouchi Sta. / Kuma-gun「Hitoyoshi」
Hanatebako, a décorated wooden box for keeping important things.
Hitoyoshi Sta. / Hitoyoshi-city「Limited Express Umisachi Yamasachi」
Miyazaki Sta. / Miyazaki-city「Limited Express Umisachi Yamasachi」
Car’s interior
Miyazaki Sta. / Miyazaki-city「Chicken nanban」
(fried chicken in Japanese spicy sweet sauce filled with sliced vegetables)
Aoshima Sta. / Miyazaki-city「Aoshima Shrine」
Torii gate
Aoshima Sta. / Miyazaki-city「Aoshima Shrine」
The precincts
Aoshima Sta. / Miyazaki-city
(China)Li Weijia
「Yunotsubo Kaido road」
Scenery
Yufuin Sta. / Yufu-city「Yunotsubo Kaido road」
In front of a souvenir shop
Yufuin Sta. / Yufu-city「Floral village」
With an owl
Yufuin Sta. / Yufu-city「Floral village」
With an owl
Yufuin Sta. / Yufu-city「Milch」
Cheese cake shop
Yufuin Sta. / Yufu-city「Milch」
Cheese cake shop
Yufuin Sta. / Yufu-city「Agura」an Oita local delicacies restaurant
Chicken tempura
Yufuin Sta. / Yufu-city「Agura」an Oita local delicacies restaurant
A scene of dealing with customers
Yufuin Sta. / Yufu-city「Yamashiroya」a Yunohira onsen inn
Entrance hall
Yunohira Sta. / Yufu-city「Yamashiroya」a Yunohira onsen inn
Entrance hall
Yunohira Sta. / Yufu-city「Yamashiroya」a Yunohira onsen inn
Front desk
Yunohira Sta. / Yufu-city「Traditional Craft Hall」
After making a basket
Kumamotojoshiyakushomae Sta. / Kumamoto-city「Traditional Craft Hall」
With the teacher who taught us basket-making
Kumamotojoshiyakushomae Sta. / Kumamoto-city「Kumamoto Castle」
Kumamotojoshiyakushomae Sta. / Kumamoto-city「Kumamoto Castle」
Sakura no Kouji, a restaurant/souvenir shop, in the Kumamoto castle town.
Kumamotojoshiyakushomae Sta. / Kumamoto-city「Kumamon Square」
Entrance
Suidocho Sta. / Kumamoto-city「Kumamon Square」
With Kumamon
Suidocho Sta. / Kumamoto-city「Kumamon Square」
With Kumamon
Suidocho Sta. / Kumamoto-city「Kumamon Square」
Entrance
Suidocho Sta. / Kumamoto-city「Jiyujin」a Kumamoto food restaurant
With Jiyujin staffs
Suidocho Sta. / Kumamoto-city「Jiyujin」a Kumamoto food restaurant
At a counter seat
Suidocho Sta. / Kumamoto-city
(Thailand)Noon-Woranut Wongsawan
「Fukuoka Airport」
Arrived at the airport
Fukuoka Apt. / Fukuoka Hakata-ku「Yufuin」
Checking souvenirs
Yufuin Sta. / Yufu-city「Yufuin」
Getting on a rickshaw
Yufuin Sta. / Yufu-city「Yufuin」
Enjoying quiet rural scene in a rickshaw
Yufuin Sta. / Yufu-city「Mt. Yufudake」
With Mt. Yufudake in the background
Yufuin Sta. / Yufu-city「Shouya no Yakata inn」
Onsen water was beautiful blue.
Yufuin Sta. / Yufu-city「Kumamoto Castle」
Kumamoto Castle which were heavily damaged in the aftermath of the 2016 Kumamoto Earthquake
Kumamotojoshiyakushomae Sta. / Kumamoto-city「Kokutei」
Kokutei, a popular ramen noodle shop
Kumamoto Sta. / Kumamoto-city「Kumamoto」
With Kumamon, a representative mascot of Kumamoto
Kumamoto Sta. / Kumamoto-city「Kumamoto Castle」
We came to Sakura no Kouji, a restaurant/souvenir shop in Johsaien tourist facility, in the Kumamoto castle town.
Kumamotojoshiyakushomae Sta. / Kumamoto-city「Kumamoto」
Spicy Karashi-renkon, lotus root filled with a mustard
Kumamoto Sta. / Kumamoto-city「Yutoku Inari Shrine」
There are also many Ema (votive horse tablets) written in Thai language at Yutoku Inari Shrine.
Hizenkashima Sta. / Kashima-city「Yutoku Inari Shrine」
Worshipped at Yutoku Inari Shrine in the traditional Japanese manner.
Hizenkashima Sta. / Kashima-city「Arita City」
With a pottery craftsman
Arita Sta. / Arita-city「Arita City」
Hands-on experience in painting of decorations on an Arita porcelain.
Arita Sta. / Arita-city「Arita City」
I did it!
Arita Sta. / Arita-city「Arita City」
Arita Porcelain Park
Arita Sta. / Arita-city「Arita City」
There is a palace in Arita Porcelain Park.
Arita Sta. / Arita-city「Gunkanjima Island」(literally means battle ship island) whose official name is Hashima Island.
With a tour guide, a native of Gunkanjima Island
Ourakaigandori Sta. / Nagasaki-city「Gunkanjima Island」(literally means battle ship island) whose official name is Hashima Island.
All in Gunkanjima Island are ruins of various concrete buildings.
Ourakaigandori Sta. / Nagasaki-city「Gunkanjima Island」(literally means battle ship island) whose official name is Hashima Island.
It was my first to see scenes of destruction and to feel a long history behind them.
Ourakaigandori Sta. / Nagasaki-city
(Hong Kong)William Chak
「Johsaien, tourist facility, at Sakurano-baba」
Soon after entering, I found a best spot to take a selfie with Kumamon.
People already formed a line to take a selfie with Kumamon.
Kumamotojoshiyakushomae Sta. / Kumamoto Chuo-ku「Johsaien, tourist facility, at Sakurano-baba」
We found a “group of samurai whose mission is to entertain visitors in Kumamoto Castle,” who appeared in the events held at the outdoor stage twice a day.
“Hey, please take a selfie with me?” William-san asked them in high spirits.
Kumamotojoshiyakushomae Sta. / Kumamoto Chuo-ku「Kato Shrine」
After taking a selfie with Kumamon at Nino-maru square of Kumamoto Castle, We headed for Kato Shrine. I took a selfie with Kumamon at Kato Shrine where you can get a full view of Kumamoto Castle.
※Kumamon is not usually here.
Kumamotojoshiyakushomae Sta. / Kumamoto Chuo-ku「Kumamoto ramen Komurasaki」
The original Kumamoto ramen shop has kept the same taste of its specialty Chashu-men (Ramen with roast pork) for about 60 years. As slices of roast pork on top of ramen are properly cooked, soft and so delicious, I(we) ate them all in an instant.
Fujisakimiyamae Sta. / Kumamoto Chuo-ku「Suganoya Horumon」horse meat dish restaurant
It was William-san’s first time to eat horse meat dish. He looked nervous first, but ate all of a single serving!
Karashimacho Sta. / Kumamoto Chuo-ku「Yamamizuki inn」Kurokawa onsen
After enjoying open-air bath to my heart’s content, I savored water gushing out of underground spring beside the entrance. It was very cold, mild and delicious.
Aso Sta. / Aso-gun Minamioguni-cho「Hiranodai Plateau Observatory – Lovers hill 」
On my way to Senomoto Plateau after leaving Kurokawa onsen, there was “Hiranodai Plateau Observatory – Lovers Hill” overlooking “Seiryu no mori” forest. The observatory commands a panoramic view of Mr. Aso, too
Aso Sta. / Aso-gun Minamioguni-machi「Aso Café SOSUI」
I enjoyed “Aso tomato Roll Cake” in which 1.5 pcs of Aso-grown tomatoes called “Momotaro 8” were used. There were many other delicious-looking hand-made mildly-sweetened sweets such as apple pie and brandy cake.
Minamiasoshirakawasuigen Sta. / Shirakawa Asogun Minamiasomura「Shirakawa suigen」 (literally means Shirakawa water source)
Shirakawa suigen is an area called “a village where water was born.” As the water gushing out from underground spring was so transparent, the trees reflected on the mirror-like surface of the water were twinkling.
Minamiasoshirakawasuigen Sta. / Shirakawa Asogun Minamiasomura「Aoshima Shrine」
It is called “Old road of wishes” along which many votive picture tables were hanging.
The road has a solemn atmosphere. Once you set your foot in the road, you’ll be healed as if cool and refreshing air swept away the heat you had so far been felt.
Aoshima Sta. / Miyazaki-city「Oni no Sentakuita(literally means “demon’s washboard”), (a rock)」
The rock which makes an appearance at ebb tide was said to have naturally been formed taking a long time.
The shining light made the picture look spiritual.
Aoshima Sta. / Miyazaki-city「Aoshima Shrine」
I found bright red hibiscus flowers which had an imposing presence among varieties of subtropical plants growing thick in Aoshima!
Aoshima Sta. / Miyazaki-city「Ranbou, Jidori Momoyaki」 (grilled chicken)
The restaurant is famous for delicious grilled upper joint of the chicken leg, Miyazaki’s specialty, which has long been loved by local people. I took a selfie at the storefront having charm of old history. The red lantern creates a unique atmosphere.
Miyazakijingu Sta. / Miyazaki-city「Ogura, Segashira store」
Chicken nanban (fried chicken in Japanese spicy sweet sauce filled with sliced vegetables) is the soul food of Miyazaki people. Ogura is said to be the originator of the recipe. I ordered a plate of chicken nanban at Ogura’s Segashira store. A large portion, but I ate it all as it tasted light. Its powerful appearance urged me to take a selfie with it.
Miyazaki Sta. / Miyazaki-city「Gamadase Market」
Delicious foods gather in the market from all over Takachiho Town. I took a selfie with a Takachiho cow. Both vegetables and beef were so delicious.
Nobeoka Sta. / Nishiusuki-gun Takachiho-cho「Kunimigaoka」
It is the place which provide the best view in Takachiho Gorge. From here you can see Mt. Aso, mountain range of Sobokatamuki and Takachiho basin at a glance. It is said that there are days in early fall when you encounter sea of clouds in the morning.
Nobeoka Sta. / Nishiusuki-gun Takachiho-cho「Takachiho Gorge 」
Manai no taki waterfall, which plummets 17 meters, was solemn and beautiful. I failed a chance to take a boat, to my regret. At the next visit, I want to feel the power of the waterfall from the boat.
Nobeoka Sta. / Nishiusuki-gun Takachiho-cho「Amanoyasugawara」
Amanoyasugawara and Takachiho Gorge are famous spiritual places. If you pile up pebbles, your dream will come true, according to a legend. The piled up pebbles makes the place look more mystic.
Nobeoka Sta. / Nishiusuki-gun Takachiho-cho「Lake Kinrin」
A symbolic scenery of Yufuin onsen is seen at the lake where hot water is gushing out. I’d like to visit here again to enjoy autumn leaves which adorn the area.
Yufuin Sta. / Yufu-city「Yufuin Samurai goods store」
Newly built store along the Yunotsubo Kaido road, where I took a selfie with a samurai.
William-san posed like a real samurai, making every efforts to be photogenic.
Yufuin Sta. / Yufu-cityRyukyu donburi, 「Nidaime Yoichi」
A bowl of rice with thin slices of horse mackerel dipped in special sauce was so delicious, I ate it all. I was highly pleased as I had a chance to see a chef cut a horse mackerel into pieces.
Oita Sta. / Oita-city「Beppu seashore sand bath」
A cup of very cold water was so delicious when my body became warm after taking a sand bath. I took a selfie against Beppu Bay spreading in front of my eyes.
Beppudaigaku Sta. / Beppu-city「Takegawara onsen」
Takegawara onsen is a communal bathhouse built in this hot spring area in Meiji Era and has been loved since by local people. Its façade was overwhelming and looked like the one which appears in old stories of Japan.
Beppu Sta. / Beppu-city「Takegawara onsen」
There was a retro mailbox and beautiful flowers beside the front door. The red mailbox was so cute.
Beppu Sta. / Beppu-city「Tuge (Japanese boxwood) crafts」
By using the technique of Tsuge zaiku, one of Japanese traditional crafts, combs and hairbrushes are handmade one by one. It is said, the more you comb your hair by a “Tsuge comb” or brush by a “Tsuge hairbrush”, the glossier your hair will become.
Beppu Sta. / Beppu-city「Tuge (Japanese boxwood) crafts」
This is also one of Tsuge zaiku technique. Tsuge combe is handmade one by one by a craftsman. The beautiful décorations on the comb is also engraved by a craftsman.
Beppu Sta. / Beppu-city「Beppu」
A beautiful lid of underground fire hydrant in Beppu which drew my attention. I heard there are many fire hydrants of various décorations. It’ll be fun to take a stroll, hunting for artistic hydrants of different décorations.
Beppu Sta. / Beppu-city
Fukuoka
「Hakata Station」
We bought a delicious-looking ekiben (railway station lunch box).
Hakata Sta. / Fukuoka Hakata-ku「Hakata Station」
Just before boarding “Yufu 3” at Hakata Station.
My rail trip finally starts. I’m so excited!
Hakata Sta. / Fukuoka Hakata-ku「Fukuoka Airport」
Arrived at the airport
Fukuoka Apt. / Fukuoka Hakata-ku
Saga
「Yutoku Inari Shrine」
There are also many Ema (votive horse tablets) written in Thai language at Yutoku Inari Shrine.
Hizenkashima Sta. / Kashima-city「Yutoku Inari Shrine」
Worshipped at Yutoku Inari Shrine in the traditional Japanese manner.
Hizenkashima Sta. / Kashima-city「Arita City」
With a pottery craftsman
Arita Sta. / Arita-city「Arita City」
Hands-on experience in painting of decorations on an Arita porcelain.
Arita Sta. / Arita-city「Arita City」
I did it!
Arita Sta. / Arita-city「Arita City」
Arita Porcelain Park
Arita Sta. / Arita-city「Arita City」
There is a palace in Arita Porcelain Park.
Arita Sta. / Arita-city
Nagasaki
「Gunkanjima Island」(literally means battle ship island) whose official name is Hashima Island.
With a tour guide, a native of Gunkanjima Island
Ourakaigandori Sta. / Nagasaki-city「Gunkanjima Island」(literally means battle ship island) whose official name is Hashima Island.
All in Gunkanjima Island are ruins of various concrete buildings.
Ourakaigandori Sta. / Nagasaki-city「Gunkanjima Island」(literally means battle ship island) whose official name is Hashima Island.
It was my first to see scenes of destruction and to feel a long history behind them.
Ourakaigandori Sta. / Nagasaki-city
Kumamoto
「Kurokawa Onsen Fureai Hiroba (Friendship Plaza)」
I finally arrived at the Friendship Plaza in Kurokawa onsen resort area.
Aso Sta. / Aso-gun Minamioguni-cho「Kurokawa Onsen Face bath」
I ventured to do it, as it seemed good for my skin.
Aso Sta. / Aso-gun Minamioguni-cho「Kurokawa Onsen」
Strolling around the onsen town.
Aso Sta. / Aso-gun Minamioguni-cho「Kumamon」
Taking a picture of us two together with Kumamon was more fun than playing Pokemon GO.
Aso Sta. / Aso-gun Minamioguni-cho「Kurokawa OnsenMiyama-sansou (hotel)」
Please make yourself comfortable and get rid of your everyday fatigue at the hotel surrounded by nature – river, fields and footpath filled with song of birds.
Aso Sta. / Aso-gun Minamioguni-cho「The Hill of Oshitoishi, Aso」
I’ve wanted to take a picture of me like a scene of “Attack on Titan!”
Aso Sta. / Aso-gun Minamioguni-cho「The Hill of Oshitoishi, Aso」
I prayed that a happy time will come around for me.
Aso Sta. / Aso-gun Minamioguni-cho「Kato Shrine and Kumamoto Castle」
“iWalker” in front of a kitchen car
Kumamotojoshiyakushomae Sta. / Kumamoto-city「Kato Shrine and Kumamoto Castle」
“iWalker” after serving the food
Kumamotojoshiyakushomae Sta. / Kumamoto-city「Kumamoto Castle」
Kumamotojoshiyakushomae Sta. / Kumamoto-city「Misumi Station」
Misumi Sta. / Uki-chity「Amakusa」
Dolphin Watch (against the sea)
Amakusa Apt. / Kumamoto Sta. / Amakusa-city「Amakusa」
Dolphin Watch (on board)
Amakusa Apt. / Kumamoto Sta. / Amakusa-city「Amakusa」
Dolphins
Amakusa Apt. / Kumamoto Sta. / Amakusa-city「Hotel Yumeshizuku」
Room
Kumamoto Apt. / Kumamoto Sta. / Aso-gun「Hotel Yumeshizuku」
Onsen (hot spa)
Kumamoto Apt. / Kumamoto Sta. / Aso-gun「Hotel Yumeshizuku」
Kaiseki ryori (simple meal served before a ceremonial tea)
Kumamoto Apt. / Kumamoto Sta. / Aso-gun「SL (steam locomotive) Hitoyoshi」
Car’s interior of SL Hitoyoshi
Kumamoto Sta. / Kumamoto-city「SL (steam locomotive) Hitoyoshi」
Ogottsu O-bento (lunch box)
Kumamoto Sta. / Kumamoto-city「SL (steam locomotive) Hitoyoshi」
Commemorative photo with SL Hitoyoshi
Kumamoto Sta. / Kumamoto-city「SL (steam locomotive) Hitoyoshi」
Isshouchi Station
Isshouchi Sta. / Kuma-gun「Hitoyoshi」
Hanatebako, a décorated wooden box for keeping important things.
Hitoyoshi Sta. / Hitoyoshi-city「Traditional Craft Hall」
After making a basket
Kumamotojoshiyakushomae Sta. / Kumamoto-city「Traditional Craft Hall」
With the teacher who taught us basket-making
Kumamotojoshiyakushomae Sta. / Kumamoto-city「Kumamoto Castle」
Kumamotojoshiyakushomae Sta. / Kumamoto-city「Kumamoto Castle」
Sakura no Kouji, a restaurant/souvenir shop, in the Kumamoto castle town.
Kumamotojoshiyakushomae Sta. / Kumamoto-city「Kumamon Square」
Entrance
Suidocho Sta. / Kumamoto-city「Kumamon Square」
With Kumamon
Suidocho Sta. / Kumamoto-city「Kumamon Square」
With Kumamon
Suidocho Sta. / Kumamoto-city「Kumamon Square」
Entrance
Suidocho Sta. / Kumamoto-city「Jiyujin」a Kumamoto food restaurant
With Jiyujin staffs
Suidocho Sta. / Kumamoto-city「Jiyujin」a Kumamoto food restaurant
At a counter seat
Suidocho Sta. / Kumamoto-city「Kumamoto Castle」
Kumamoto Castle which were heavily damaged in the aftermath of the 2016 Kumamoto Earthquake
Kumamotojoshiyakushomae Sta. / Kumamoto-city「Kokutei」
Kokutei, a popular ramen noodle shop
Kumamoto Sta. / Kumamoto-city「Kumamoto」
With Kumamon, a representative mascot of Kumamoto
Kumamoto Sta. / Kumamoto-city「Kumamoto Castle」
We came to Sakura no Kouji, a restaurant/souvenir shop in Johsaien tourist facility, in the Kumamoto castle town.
Kumamotojoshiyakushomae Sta. / Kumamoto-city「Kumamoto」
Spicy Karashi-renkon, lotus root filled with a mustard
Kumamoto Sta. / Kumamoto-city「Johsaien, tourist facility, at Sakurano-baba」
Soon after entering, I found a best spot to take a selfie with Kumamon.
People already formed a line to take a selfie with Kumamon.
Kumamotojoshiyakushomae Sta. / Kumamoto Chuo-ku「Johsaien, tourist facility, at Sakurano-baba」
We found a “group of samurai whose mission is to entertain visitors in Kumamoto Castle,” who appeared in the events held at the outdoor stage twice a day.
“Hey, please take a selfie with me?” William-san asked them in high spirits.
Kumamotojoshiyakushomae Sta. / Kumamoto Chuo-ku「Kato Shrine」
After taking a selfie with Kumamon at Nino-maru square of Kumamoto Castle, We headed for Kato Shrine. I took a selfie with Kumamon at Kato Shrine where you can get a full view of Kumamoto Castle.
※Kumamon is not usually here.
Kumamotojoshiyakushomae Sta. / Kumamoto Chuo-ku「Kumamoto ramen Komurasaki」
The original Kumamoto ramen shop has kept the same taste of its specialty Chashu-men (Ramen with roast pork) for about 60 years. As slices of roast pork on top of ramen are properly cooked, soft and so delicious, I(we) ate them all in an instant.
Fujisakimiyamae Sta. / Kumamoto Chuo-ku「Suganoya Horumon」horse meat dish restaurant
It was William-san’s first time to eat horse meat dish. He looked nervous first, but ate all of a single serving!
Karashimacho Sta. / Kumamoto Chuo-ku「Yamamizuki inn」Kurokawa onsen
After enjoying open-air bath to my heart’s content, I savored water gushing out of underground spring beside the entrance. It was very cold, mild and delicious.
Aso Sta. / Aso-gun Minamioguni-cho「Hiranodai Plateau Observatory – Lovers hill 」
On my way to Senomoto Plateau after leaving Kurokawa onsen, there was “Hiranodai Plateau Observatory – Lovers Hill” overlooking “Seiryu no mori” forest. The observatory commands a panoramic view of Mr. Aso, too
Aso Sta. / Aso-gun Minamioguni-machi「Aso Café SOSUI」
I enjoyed “Aso tomato Roll Cake” in which 1.5 pcs of Aso-grown tomatoes called “Momotaro 8” were used. There were many other delicious-looking hand-made mildly-sweetened sweets such as apple pie and brandy cake.
Minamiasoshirakawasuigen Sta. / Shirakawa Asogun Minamiasomura「Shirakawa suigen」 (literally means Shirakawa water source)
Shirakawa suigen is an area called “a village where water was born.” As the water gushing out from underground spring was so transparent, the trees reflected on the mirror-like surface of the water were twinkling.
Minamiasoshirakawasuigen Sta. / Shirakawa Asogun Minamiasomura
Oita
「Yufuin Station」
Preparing money for shopping and eating.
Yufuin Sta. / Yufu-city「B-speak」
Eating a delicious cake in front of a store.
Yufuin Sta. / Yufu-city「Milch」
We took a rest, eating pudding and cheese cake.
Yufuin Sta. / Yufu-city「Bakudanyaki Honpo」
I finally found the store! In front of Bakudanyaki Honpo.
Yufuin Sta. / Yufu-city「Square in front of Onto Community Center」
I found a nice place where I played Innocently as if I went back to my childhood!
Yufuin Sta. / Yufu-city「Café La Ruche」
Having a cup of coffee and mango-flavored shaved ice at a nice café inside the MARC CHAGALL MUSEUM beside Lake Kinrin, Yufuin.
Yufuin Sta. / Yufu-city「Lake Kinrin」
With beautiful Lake Kinrin in the background.
Yufuin Sta. / Yufu-city「GAHAMA terrace(Hotel)」
My first bathing in an onsen. I’m determined to come here again in the next winter.
Beppudaigaku Sta. / Beppu-city「Beppu Shoningahama beach」
I took a morning stroll, going out from the backyard of the hotel.
Beppudaigaku Sta. / Beppu-city「Beppu Shoningahama beach」
At the beautiful seaside
Beppudaigaku Sta. / Beppu-city「Beppu seaside sand bath」
It was my first bathing in a sand bath.
Beppudaigaku Sta. / Beppu-city「Yunotsubo Kaido road」
Scenery
Yufuin Sta. / Yufu-city「Yunotsubo Kaido road」
In front of a souvenir shop
Yufuin Sta. / Yufu-city「Floral village」
With an owl
Yufuin Sta. / Yufu-city「Floral village」
With an owl
Yufuin Sta. / Yufu-city「Milch」
Cheese cake shop
Yufuin Sta. / Yufu-city「Milch」
Cheese cake shop
Yufuin Sta. / Yufu-city「Agura」an Oita local delicacies restaurant
Chicken tempura
Yufuin Sta. / Yufu-city「Agura」an Oita local delicacies restaurant
A scene of dealing with customers
Yufuin Sta. / Yufu-city「Yamashiroya」a Yunohira onsen inn
Entrance hall
Yunohira Sta. / Yufu-city「Yamashiroya」a Yunohira onsen inn
Entrance hall
Yunohira Sta. / Yufu-city「Yamashiroya」a Yunohira onsen inn
Front desk
Yunohira Sta. / Yufu-city「Yufuin」
Checking souvenirs
Yufuin Sta. / Yufu-city「Yufuin」
Getting on a rickshaw
Yufuin Sta. / Yufu-city「Yufuin」
Enjoying quiet rural scene in a rickshaw
Yufuin Sta. / Yufu-city「Mt. Yufudake」
With Mt. Yufudake in the background
Yufuin Sta. / Yufu-city「Shouya no Yakata inn」
Onsen water was beautiful blue.
Yufuin Sta. / Yufu-city「Lake Kinrin」
A symbolic scenery of Yufuin onsen is seen at the lake where hot water is gushing out. I’d like to visit here again to enjoy autumn leaves which adorn the area.
Yufuin Sta. / Yufu-city「Yufuin Samurai goods store」
Newly built store along the Yunotsubo Kaido road, where I took a selfie with a samurai.
William-san posed like a real samurai, making every efforts to be photogenic.
Yufuin Sta. / Yufu-cityRyukyu donburi, 「Nidaime Yoichi」
A bowl of rice with thin slices of horse mackerel dipped in special sauce was so delicious, I ate it all. I was highly pleased as I had a chance to see a chef cut a horse mackerel into pieces.
Oita Sta. / Oita-city「Beppu seashore sand bath」
A cup of very cold water was so delicious when my body became warm after taking a sand bath. I took a selfie against Beppu Bay spreading in front of my eyes.
Beppudaigaku Sta. / Beppu-city「Takegawara onsen」
Takegawara onsen is a communal bathhouse built in this hot spring area in Meiji Era and has been loved since by local people. Its façade was overwhelming and looked like the one which appears in old stories of Japan.
Beppu Sta. / Beppu-city「Takegawara onsen」
There was a retro mailbox and beautiful flowers beside the front door. The red mailbox was so cute.
Beppu Sta. / Beppu-city「Tuge (Japanese boxwood) crafts」
By using the technique of Tsuge zaiku, one of Japanese traditional crafts, combs and hairbrushes are handmade one by one. It is said, the more you comb your hair by a “Tsuge comb” or brush by a “Tsuge hairbrush”, the glossier your hair will become.
Beppu Sta. / Beppu-city「Tuge (Japanese boxwood) crafts」
This is also one of Tsuge zaiku technique. Tsuge combe is handmade one by one by a craftsman. The beautiful décorations on the comb is also engraved by a craftsman.
Beppu Sta. / Beppu-city「Beppu」
A beautiful lid of underground fire hydrant in Beppu which drew my attention. I heard there are many fire hydrants of various décorations. It’ll be fun to take a stroll, hunting for artistic hydrants of different décorations.
Beppu Sta. / Beppu-city
Miyazaki
「Limited Express Umisachi Yamasachi」
Miyazaki Sta. / Miyazaki-city「Limited Express Umisachi Yamasachi」
Car’s interior
Miyazaki Sta. / Miyazaki-city「Chicken nanban」
(fried chicken in Japanese spicy sweet sauce filled with sliced vegetables)
Aoshima Sta. / Miyazaki-city「Aoshima Shrine」
Torii gate
Aoshima Sta. / Miyazaki-city「Aoshima Shrine」
The precincts
Aoshima Sta. / Miyazaki-city「Aoshima Shrine」
It is called “Old road of wishes” along which many votive picture tables were hanging.
The road has a solemn atmosphere. Once you set your foot in the road, you’ll be healed as if cool and refreshing air swept away the heat you had so far been felt.
Aoshima Sta. / Miyazaki-city「Oni no Sentakuita(literally means “demon’s washboard”), (a rock)」
The rock which makes an appearance at ebb tide was said to have naturally been formed taking a long time.
The shining light made the picture look spiritual.
Aoshima Sta. / Miyazaki-city「Aoshima Shrine」
I found bright red hibiscus flowers which had an imposing presence among varieties of subtropical plants growing thick in Aoshima!
Aoshima Sta. / Miyazaki-city「Ranbou, Jidori Momoyaki」 (grilled chicken)
The restaurant is famous for delicious grilled upper joint of the chicken leg, Miyazaki’s specialty, which has long been loved by local people. I took a selfie at the storefront having charm of old history. The red lantern creates a unique atmosphere.
Miyazakijingu Sta. / Miyazaki-city「Ogura, Segashira store」
Chicken nanban (fried chicken in Japanese spicy sweet sauce filled with sliced vegetables) is the soul food of Miyazaki people. Ogura is said to be the originator of the recipe. I ordered a plate of chicken nanban at Ogura’s Segashira store. A large portion, but I ate it all as it tasted light. Its powerful appearance urged me to take a selfie with it.
Miyazaki Sta. / Miyazaki-city「Gamadase Market」
Delicious foods gather in the market from all over Takachiho Town. I took a selfie with a Takachiho cow. Both vegetables and beef were so delicious.
Nobeoka Sta. / Nishiusuki-gun Takachiho-cho「Kunimigaoka」
It is the place which provide the best view in Takachiho Gorge. From here you can see Mt. Aso, mountain range of Sobokatamuki and Takachiho basin at a glance. It is said that there are days in early fall when you encounter sea of clouds in the morning.
Nobeoka Sta. / Nishiusuki-gun Takachiho-cho「Takachiho Gorge 」
Manai no taki waterfall, which plummets 17 meters, was solemn and beautiful. I failed a chance to take a boat, to my regret. At the next visit, I want to feel the power of the waterfall from the boat.
Nobeoka Sta. / Nishiusuki-gun Takachiho-cho「Amanoyasugawara」
Amanoyasugawara and Takachiho Gorge are famous spiritual places. If you pile up pebbles, your dream will come true, according to a legend. The piled up pebbles makes the place look more mystic.
Nobeoka Sta. / Nishiusuki-gun Takachiho-cho
Kagoshima
「A streetcar in Kagoshima City」
Kagoshimachuo Sta. / Kagoshima-city「Shabu-shabu at Nanshukan (hot spa inn) 」
Photographing staffs
Tenmonkan dori Sta. / Kagoshima-city「Shabu-shabu at Nanshukan (hot spa inn) 」
Tenmonkan dori Sta. / Kagoshima-city「Stall village」
Kagoshimachuo Sta. / Kagoshima-city「Stall village」
Kagoshimachuo Sta. / Kagoshima-city「Stall village」
Cheers!
Kagoshimachuo Sta. / Kagoshima-city「Stall village」
Kagoshimachuo Sta. / Kagoshima-city「Satsumaji」
Reservation is required for Sakezushi (fermented sushi made with lots of local sake)
Tenmonkan dori Sta. / Kagoshima-city「Satsumaji」
Tenmonkan dori Sta. / Kagoshima-city「Shiroyama Park」
A view of the city and Sakurajima
Ijuin Sta. / Kagoshima-city「Statue of Takamori Saigo」
Asahi dori Sta. / Kagoshima-city「Ichi Ni San 」
Tenmonkan dori Sta. / Kagoshima-city「Suteki Steak restaurant」
Teppanyaki-style restaurant with counter seats which provides steak at a reasonable price.
Tenmonkan dori Sta. / Kagoshima-city「Sakurajima Noryo (enjoy cool breeze) ferry boat」
Fireworks on the water
Suizokukanguchi Sta. / Kagoshima-city「Sakurajima Noryo (enjoy cool breeze) ferry boat」
Fireworks on the water
Suizokukanguchi Sta. / Kagoshima-city「Sakurajima Noryo (enjoy cool breeze) ferry boat」
Kagoshima special bento
Suizokukanguchi Sta. / Kagoshima-city