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If you have done the things to do in Japan, you’d know there are quite a few of them here in Mine.
Explore the glimmering depths of Mine, where adventure awaits at every turn and treasures beyond your wildest imagination are waiting to be discovered.
Without further ado listed below are some of the most fun things to do in Mine:
1. Yakushimaru Park
Yakushimaru Park is a beautifully landscaped garden located in Mine city of Yamaguchi Prefecture in Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the vast grounds of Yakushimaru Park, which houses a variety of beautiful trees and flowers, including azaleas, rhododendrons, and cherry blossoms (during spring).
There are also walking trails, a large pond, and several Japanese-style bridges that offer great photo opportunities.
Don’t miss: One of the highlights of the park is the stunning wisteria tunnel that blooms in late April and early May. Visitors can walk through the tunnel and admire the beautiful flowers hanging overhead.
Insider travel tips: – The best time to visit Yakushimaru Park is from late April to early May when the wisteria tunnel is in full bloom.
2. Hashima Island
Hashima Island, also known as Gunkanjima (meaning “Battleship Island”), is an abandoned island located off the coast of Nagasaki, Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors can take a boat tour to the island to explore the ruins of the former coal mining community. The island is home to multiple abandoned buildings such as residential areas, schools, and even a bowling alley.
Visitors can also see the impressive sea wall surrounding the island, which was built to protect the community from typhoons and tsunamis.
Don’t miss: One of the most iconic sights on the island is the Hashima coal mine, which can be seen from the viewing platform overlooking the island.
Visitors can also explore the abandoned apartment buildings and check out the stunning views from the rooftop.
Insider travel tips: Be sure to book your boat tour in advance, as they can fill up quickly. It’s also recommended to visit in the morning to avoid the crowds and heat.
Wear comfortable shoes, as the terrain can be uneven and slippery. And always be mindful of your surroundings, as some areas of the island can be dangerous and unstable.
3. Limestone Caves of Toyama
The Limestone Caves of Toyama are a natural wonder located in Mine City, Japan.
What to see or do: Explore the inner workings of the numerous caves that make up the underground system. Visitors can walk through well-lit paths and witness beautiful rock formations and underground waterfalls.
Don’t miss: The highlight of the caves is the stunning “Crystal Palace” which features a large, glittering quartz formation.
Insider travel tips: It can get chilly in the caves, even during summer months. So, make sure to bring an extra layer of clothing.
Moreover, comfortable walking shoes with a good grip are advised as some parts of the floor can be slippery. The caves are best visited during weekdays as they tend to get crowded on weekends.
4. Inokashira Park Zoo
Inokashira Park Zoo is a family-friendly zoo located in Mine, Tokyo. It is home to various animals and tropical birds, attracting visitors of all ages.
What to see or do: Visitors can see various animals, including red pandas, lemurs, monkeys, raccoons, and birds. The zoo also features a petting area where visitors can interact with goats and sheep.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the chance to see the zoo’s famous white tiger, a rare and majestic animal to see up close.
Insider travel tips: – The zoo can get crowded during weekends and holidays, so plan to arrive early to avoid the crowds.
5. Lake Biwa
Lake Biwa, also known as Biwako, is the largest freshwater lake in Japan. It is situated in the Shiga Prefecture and has a surface area of approximately 670 square kilometers.
What to see or do: Visitors can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities such as fishing, boating, and swimming in the pristine waters of Lake Biwa.
The lake is also surrounded by mountains, making it an ideal location for hiking and camping. Additionally, there are numerous hot springs and public bathhouses in the area where visitors can enjoy a relaxing soak.
Don’t miss: The Shirahige Shrine, situated on a small island in the lake, is a must-see attraction for visitors.
The shrine, which was founded in the 11th century, is known for its unique architecture and stunning views of the lake.
Another popular attraction is the Biwako Terrace, a viewing platform that offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
Insider travel tips: To avoid crowds and enjoy a peaceful experience, visit the lake during the off-season (September to November).
Visitors can also take a scenic train ride on the Sagano Scenic Railway, which runs along the western shore of the lake and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and countryside.
6. Tsukiji Fish Market
Famous fish market located in Tokyo, Japan.
What to see or do: Experience the bustling atmosphere of the wholesale fruit and vegetable market and the crowded tuna auctions, where giant fish are sold off to the highest bidder.
Tsukiji also offers a variety of shops and restaurants, serving some of the freshest fish and seafood in Tokyo.
Don’t miss: The tuna auctions.
Be sure to arrive early (around 3-4am) to secure a spot as only a limited number of visitors are allowed to observe the auction each day.
Insider travel tips: Wear comfortable shoes as the market can get crowded and busy. Arrive early to beat the crowds and to make the most of your visit.
Bring cash as many shops and restaurants do not accept credit cards.
7. Matsumoto Castle
Matsumoto Castle is a historic castle located in the city of Matsumoto, in Nagano Prefecture, Japan. It was built in the 16th century and is considered one of the most beautiful and well-preserved castles in Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the castle’s unique architecture and see authentic samurai swords and armor. The castle has six stories and offers stunning views of the city and the Japanese Alps.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the breathtaking views of cherry blossoms in the spring and the vibrant colors of autumn foliage in the fall.
Also, make sure to check out the beautiful moat surrounding the castle.
Insider travel tips: – Avoid visiting during peak tourist season to make the most of your experience.
8. Himeji Castle
A UNESCO World Heritage site, Himeji Castle is a beautifully preserved feudal-era Japanese castle complex located in the city of Himeji, Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the castle complex which includes multiple gates, towers, and the main keep. The interior of the castle features exhibits showcasing the castle’s history and artifacts.
Don’t miss: The view from the observation deck of the main keep is breathtaking, offering panoramic views of the castle complex and surrounding area.
Insider travel tips: To avoid crowds, it’s best to visit early in the morning or later in the afternoon. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended as there are many stairs and steep inclines to navigate.
9. Todai-ji Temple
Todai-ji Temple is a historic Buddhist temple located in the city of Nara, Japan.
What to see or do: Marvel at the largest wooden building in the world, the Daibutsuden hall, which houses a magnificent 15-meter tall bronze statue of Buddha.
Admire the intricate details of the temple’s architecture and its surrounding gardens.
Don’t miss: Witness the daily rituals performed at the temple by the resident monks. Head to the Nigatsu-do hall for a stunning panoramic view of Nara.
Insider travel tips: Arrive early to beat the crowds. Wear comfortable shoes as there is a fair bit of walking involved.
Combine your visit to Todai-ji with a trip to Nara Park where you can encounter friendly wild deer.
10. Miyajima Island
Miyajima Island is a small island in Hiroshima Bay, Japan, known for its iconic Itsukushima Shrine and surrounding natural beauty.
What to see or do: – Visit the Itsukushima Shrine, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Japan’s most photographed landmarks.
Don’t miss: – Watching the sunset over the Itsukushima Shrine and the torii gate.
Insider travel tips: – Avoid visiting during peak tourist season (late July to mid-August) to avoid the crowds.
11. Kiyomizu-dera Temple
Kiyomizu-dera Temple is a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Kyoto, Japan that was founded in 798 AD.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the stunning temple grounds, which include several buildings and structures such as the main hall, bell tower, and pagoda.
Don’t miss the famous Kiyomizu Stage, a large veranda made entirely of wood that offers panoramic views of the city. The temple also has a beautiful garden and a waterfall that visitors can access through the Otowa Waterfall.
Don’t miss: The Kiyomizu Stage is a must-see, and visitors should also check out Jishu Shrine, a small shrine dedicated to the god of love and matchmaking.
Another highlight is the Nio-mon gate, which features two large wooden statues of Agyo and Ungyo, the two wrathful and muscular deities tasked with protecting Buddhist temples.
Insider travel tips: Be prepared for crowds, as Kiyomizu-dera Temple is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Kyoto. To beat the crowds, it’s recommended to visit early in the morning or later in the afternoon.
Visitors should also wear comfortable shoes as the temple’s grounds and surrounding area are quite hilly.
Lastly, be sure to try the local specialty, Kiyomizu-yaki pottery, which is made in the traditional style and sold in souvenir shops around the temple.
12. Arashiyama Bamboo Grove
A serene bamboo forest in Arashiyama, a district on the outskirts of Kyoto, Japan.
What to see or do: Take a leisurely stroll along the bamboo grove trails, snap some photos of the towering bamboo stalks, and soak in the peaceful ambiance of the surrounding nature.
Don’t miss: The iconic path that stretches for about 500 meters and is flanked by towering bamboo stalks on both sides, creating a truly mesmerizing and magical atmosphere.
Insider travel tips: Visit early in the morning or later in the afternoon to avoid the crowds and fully appreciate the soothing sounds of the bamboo leaves rustling in the wind.
Be sure to bring comfortable footwear, sunscreen, and a camera to capture the beauty of this one-of-a-kind natural wonder.
13. Fushimi Inari Shrine
A Shinto shrine located in Mine, Japan, dedicated to Inari, the god of rice and fertility.
What to see or do: Take a serene walk through the shrine’s stunning torii gates, which form a network of trails leading up the mountain, and enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding scenery.
Don’t miss: The iconic vermillion torii gates that spread across the mountain slopes and create a unique and picturesque atmosphere. Also, try the local street food and visit the souvenir shops.
Insider travel tips: Arrive early to avoid crowds and take advantage of the quieter and more peaceful atmosphere. Wear comfortable footwear as some of the trails can be steep and challenging.
Don’t forget to bring a camera to capture the beautiful landscapes along the way.
14. Ginkaku-ji Temple
Ginkaku-ji, also known as the Silver Pavilion, is a temple complex located in the Higashiyama District of Kyoto, Japan. It was built in the late 1400s and is considered one of the most iconic temples in Japan.
What to see or do: The temple complex features a variety of buildings, gardens, and statues that are worth exploring. Visitors can admire the Silver Pavilion, which was modeled after the famous Kinkaku-ji Temple.
They can also stroll through the moss garden, which is filled with various types of greenery and stones that create a tranquil atmosphere.
Don’t miss: One of the most popular features of Ginkaku-ji is the Sand Garden, which features a large mound of white sand that symbolizes Mt.
Fuji. Visitors can walk around the garden and enjoy the simplicity of the design.
Another must-see is the Togudo Hall, which features a beautiful ceiling mural of a dragon.
Insider travel tips: It’s recommended to visit Ginkaku-ji during the early morning hours to avoid crowds. Make sure to wear comfortable shoes, as the temple complex requires a fair amount of walking.
If possible, try to visit during the fall season when the leaves change color and the scenery is breathtaking.