Author: Tossy
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Kobuntei at Kairakuen: Where Plum Blossoms and Scholarship Bloom Together
When you first arrive at Kairakuen in February, your attention naturally drifts upward — toward the pale pink and white plum blossoms floating against a winter sky. But if you stop there, you miss the quiet center of the garden. Hidden within the plum groves stands Kobuntei, a historic villa built in 1842 by Tokugawa…
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Tokiwa Shrine in Mito: A Quiet Spiritual Stop Within Kairakuen
When people visit Kairakuen in February, they usually come for the plum blossoms. Soft pink. White petals. A quiet sign that spring has begun. But just beside the famous plum groves, there is another place that many first-time visitors almost overlook — a place that adds depth, history, and spiritual calm to the experience. That…
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Kairakuen in February: The Best Place to See Plum Blossoms in Japan Before Cherry Blossom Season
February may not be the first month that comes to mind when you think of traveling to Japan. Cherry blossoms dominate postcards, guidebooks, and social feeds — but February can feel quiet, even uninviting. I get it: visiting Japan in winter might sound like you’ll see bare trees and chilly streets. However, in Japanese culture,…
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Exploring Asahikawa Ramen Village: The Rich and Comforting Taste of Shoyu Ramen
When traveling through northern Japan, food experiences often become just as memorable as the landscapes. During my visit to Asahikawa — a city known for its snowy winters and laid-back atmosphere — I discovered a destination that perfectly captures local culinary culture: Asahikawa Ramen Village. Located in Japan’s northern island of Hokkaido, this unique ramen…
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Kamikawa Shrine Travel Guide — History, Meaning, and How to Visit from Asahikawa
Introduction: Searching for a Shrine Beyond the Usual Tourist Path When you plan a trip to Japan, visiting a shrine often feels like an obvious part of the experience, and you probably imagine red gates, lively pathways, and seasonal beauty such as cherry blossoms or autumn leaves. That image is not wrong, but if you…
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Farm Restaurant Chiyoda: A Calm Biei Meal Surrounded by Fields and Cattle
When you travel through Biei, you probably imagine rolling hills, quiet farmland, and wide skies that seem to stretch forever. But once you start planning where to eat, you might notice something that surprises many first-time visitors: there aren’t endless restaurant choices in rural areas, and deciding where to stop can feel harder than expected.…
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Visiting Shirogane Blue Pond and Shirahige Waterfalls in Winter — A Practical Guide from Asahikawa
If you have already explored Tokyo and started thinking about seeing a different side of Japan, you may find yourself curious about Hokkaido, yet unsure how to actually plan it. The island feels distant, the scale seems intimidating, and the idea of winter travel there can sound exciting but also slightly overwhelming. This guide promises…
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A Perfect Day Trip from Asahikawa: How to Enjoy Biei and the City in One Relaxed Day
1. “Can We Really Do Biei and Asahikawa in One Day?” When you hear the names Biei and Asahikawa, they sound big.They feel like places that need several days, careful planning, and a lot of energy. When you look at a map, the wide empty spaces between spots can quietly increase that feeling. You might…
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What Is Ehomaki? A Simple Guide to Japan’s February Sushi Tradition
Why Ehomaki Feels Confusing at First on 3rd February? If you have heard about Ehomaki before, you probably have a vague image in your mind: a thick sushi roll, eaten in February, while facing a specific direction.But when you actually try to understand it, things start to feel a little confusing, don’t they? People mention…
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Hard Exercise
I genuinely want to work out. Like, not just a light stretch or a short walk, but real, intense exercise. The kind that makes you sweat, struggle, and actually feel your body changing. I want to get stronger, build muscle, and feel proud of my body. Every time I make a to-do list, I confidently…