#onsentown

#summervacay If you're looking for an easily accessible, off-the-beaten-path destination where you can indulge in a top-tier hot spring experience, then I'd say Saga's Ureshino Onsen (嬉野温泉) is definitely a spot you should bookmark! Super Convenient Transportation: From Takeo Onsen, it was a mere 6-minute Shinkansen ride to Ureshino Onsen – incredibly convenient and practically at my fingertips! Since I had a rail pass, it felt like the perfect side trip to enjoy a beautiful hot spring soak before heading refreshed to my next destination. I also found that the Shinkansen ride from Nagasaki to Ureshino Onsen took less than half an hour, so I realized it's an excellent choice for a day-trip onsen experience too. One of Japan's Top 3 "Beautiful Skin" Onsens: Ureshino Onsen is renowned for its unique water quality and is celebrated as one of Japan's top three "beautiful skin" hot springs. The onsen water is rich in sodium bicarbonate, which is said to be highly effective at removing dead skin cells, leaving your skin incredibly smooth and soft. As someone who appreciates skincare, this was a true blessing! Strolling the Onsen Town: I took a casual stroll through Ureshino's onsen town, and my impression was very positive. Although it was about a half-hour walk from Ureshino Onsen JR Station to the main onsen town, the path took me along the historic "Nagasaki Kaido". This old road was a crucial trade route connecting Nagasaki to Kokura during the Edo period, so it felt quite steeped in history. While I didn't find anything particularly stunning during my walk itself, it was still interesting to feel the echoes of history. Of course, I noticed there are also buses connecting the station to the town if you prefer not to walk. Breakfast Detour: When I arrived, I looked for a place to grab breakfast to fuel up. It seemed like the only place serving breakfast around there was just this one "shokudo" (diner). They were very generous with the ingredients, but I found the noodles to be just okay. I actually noticed that what other people were eating (rice dishes) looked much more appetizing, so if I go again, I might choose to try their rice-based meals! All in all, Ureshino Onsen was a fantastic place to relax, rejuvenate, and experience Japan's unique onsen culture, especially given its excellent value since I was using a rail pass! #Saga #UreshinoOnsen #JapanOnsen #BeautifulSkinOnsen #OffTheBeatenPath #KyushuTravel #OnsenTown #JapanTravel #RailPass #MyTravels

#cityplaybook Step into the timeless charm of Dogo Onsen, one of Japan’s oldest and most iconic hot springs, nestled in the heart of Matsuyama, Ehime. Surrounded by retro streets and historical landmarks, this area is perfect for a slow and scenic stroll. 🚃 Bocchan Train A nostalgic steam-style train that chugs through the city—named after Natsume Soseki’s famous novel Bocchan. It’s a must-see (and ride!) when visiting Dogo. 🏛 Bocchan Train Museum Get a closer look at the train’s history, enjoy train-themed interiors, and grab a coffee or snack while you’re at it. ⛩ Yuzan Shrine A peaceful hilltop shrine overlooking Dogo. A great spot to take a break and soak in the atmosphere (and views!). Why I recommend this area: ・Perfect for a nostalgic stroll filled with history and local charm ・Great mix of cultural spots and scenic relaxation 📍Dogo Onsen Area, Matsuyama City, Ehime #DogoOnsen #BocchanTrain #MatsuyamaTrip #EhimeTravel #OnsenTown #CityPlaybook #JapanHeritage #SlowTravel

#cityplaybook Looking for a peaceful escape from city life? Atami, just a short train ride from Tokyo, offers the perfect blend of seaside charm, history, and a relaxing onsen town atmosphere. 🌳 Kinomiya Shrine This sacred spot is known as one of Atami’s most powerful energy places. The centuries-old giant camphor tree is said to grant long life—walk around it once for good luck! 🍡 Café-hopping in Town Atami is full of hidden gems when it comes to sweets and cafés. One favorite? Fukuya, a nostalgic-style dessert shop serving Japanese classics like matcha sweets and seasonal wagashi. Why I recommend this area: ・A peaceful escape with a slow pace and calming atmosphere ・A perfect mix of nature, culture, and local treats 📍Atami City, Shizuoka Prefecture #AtamiTrip #KinomiyaShrine #AtamiCafe #WagashiLover #OnsenTown #CityPlaybook #JapanTravel #SlowTravel

#cityplaybook Lake Tōya in Hokkaido is one of those places where every step feels calming. The view of the still water, the gentle mountain air, and the quiet charm of the lakeside town all add up to the perfect slow-paced getaway. I began my day with a visit to Tōya Shrine, a small but peaceful spot surrounded by trees and silence. Not far away, Abuta Shrine offered another moment of stillness and a beautiful view of the lake from its grounds. To see the lake from a different angle, I hopped on a Lake Tōya cruise. Floating across the wide, glassy surface with mountains all around was incredibly relaxing—just sit back and breathe it all in. And of course, no trip is complete without good food. I stopped by Tōya Sun Palace Resort for their buffet, which had everything from fresh seafood to warm desserts. The best part? Enjoying it all with a view of the lake. Why I recommend Lake Tōya: ・It’s a peaceful retreat where you can enjoy nature, local shrines, and quiet walks ・The lake views—whether from the shore, a cruise, or a restaurant—are unforgettable 📍Lake Tōya area, Hokkaido, Japan #LakeToya #Hokkaido #ShrineWalk #ToyaCruise #NatureEscape #PeacefulViews #SlowTravel #OnsenTown #CityGuide #ToyaBuffet

#cityplaybook Rainy days can be magical—especially in Dōgo Onsen. With covered arcades, charming shops, and the scent of onsen in the air, this historic hot spring town in Matsuyama is a joy to explore, no matter the weather. The shopping arcade is full of local souvenir stores, from traditional crafts to modern favorites. One stop you can’t miss? The Rilakkuma shop—it’s full of adorable goods you’ll want to bring home, whether you’re a fan or just need a bit of cute in your day. There are also plenty of cozy cafés. I grabbed a seat at Yukemuri Café and tried their freshly grilled dango—warm, sweet, and perfect for a rainy afternoon. Even under gray skies, Dōgo Onsen glows with charm. And once you’re done wandering, there’s always a hot bath waiting. Why I recommend Dōgo Onsen: ・The covered streets make it an ideal destination even when it rains ・Between the hot springs, sweet treats, and charming shops, there’s comfort at every corner 📍Dōgo Onsen, Matsuyama, Ehime Prefecture, Japan #DogoOnsen #Matsuyama #RainyDayTravel #CoveredArcades #JapaneseSweets #YukemuriCafe #RilakkumaShop #OnsenTown #SlowJapan #PerfectDay