Malaysia Edition
Tokyo - Singapore - L.A - Taiwan - Thailand - Paris - Hong Kong - Indonesia - Mexico - Australia
TA K E FREE
Autumn 2018 VOL.26 PP18029/03/2013 (033318)
Kyoto’s A glimpse
sanctuary
into
and dining experience
Three Sisters’ Road Trip from
Southern to Central
Hokkaido
Love Japan? Follow
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暦 Koyomi Late October -
こよみを楽しむ
IN HARMONY WITH THE SEASONS
Mid November
Shichig o san 七五三
Chitose Ame (Thousand year candy) are presented to children on this day as a symbol of longevity. text & coordination/ Rieko Ido, photo/ Hajime Watanabe 文とスタイリング:井戸理恵子、写真:渡辺肇
Shichigosan, which is a celebration for children, happens on the 15th of November on the old lunar calendar. “Shichi, go, san” literally means “seven, five, three”, the age of children who are blessed on this day. In ancient China, prime numbers such as 3, 5, 7 were regarded lucky. The 15th of the month was chosen for the celebration, as it is the sum of those three numbers and in itself is regarded as having even stronger powers
to repel evil spirits. It was believed that children are given the gift of language at the age of three, intelligence at five, and teeth at seven. It was also believed that young children belong to the world of spirits, only becoming properly human at the age of seven. In old days when children’s mortality rate was much higher, it’s not difficult to imagine parents’ joy at celebrating the growth of their kids. This is also a day for
children to get a sense of their own growth. Quite often this is the first day for girls to put on some make up, just like the ladies!
Rieko Ido A graduate of Kokugakuin University, researcher of ancient Japanese customs and knowledge, conducting technical analysis on findings to apply them to modern lifestyles. Currently teaches at Tama Art University.
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Summer
Autumn
Winter
in Yamagata
Minshuku Experience Minshuku (民宿), otherwise commonly known as guesthouses, are a great way for Singaporeans to experience life away from the city. Usually located in suburban or rural areas in Japan, visitors who stay in these cosy places can enjoy the changing seasons while learning about daily life in Japan as well as their customs. Often run by families, these Japanese-style lodgings serve homely dinners and breakfasts homemade from scratch. Each dish is then displayed individually on a tray, turning it into piece after piece of edible art. During your stay, you may even get to try hands-on activities such as traditional sweets-making in summer or harvesting new rice and other crops
農家民宿 いろり
IRORI MINSHUKU
〒999-0436 Iwakura, Iide-machi
Nishiokitama-gun Yamagata Prefecture, Japan Web: iide-irori.com Price: ¥6,800 (1 night, 2 meals) (includes farming experience activities)
農家民宿いからし本家
NŌKA MINSHUKU IKARASHI MAIN HOUSE
〒999-0432, 89 Shirakawa, Iide-machi,
Nishiokitama-gun Yamagata Prefecture, Japan ☎ +81 238-77-2088
during autumn. In winter, take in exclusive views of spectacular snow walls and structures illuminated by candles at night. You can also expect stunning scenery when spring arrives! Stay in a minshuku and be prepared to relish in heart-warming hospitality, homemade meals and once-in-a-lifetime experiences that will leave you wanting more! For reservation: info@iikanjini.com Scan QR code for more info:
www.iikanjini.com/tomaru/
Special Thanks to H.I.S Travel Japan
VOL.26
EXQUISITE KYOTO &
ROAD TRIPPIN’ IN HOKKAIDO
03
In Harmony with the Seasons
04
Minshuku in Yamagata JPN47: Yamagata
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A glimpse into Kyoto’s sanctuary and dining experience Three Sisters’ Road Trip from
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Southern to Central Hokkaido
Publisher
Shuji Ozawa FLP YOMIKO Malaysia Sdn Bhd 100.02.043, 129 Offices, Block J, Jaya One. No.72A, Jalan Universiti, 46200 Petaling Jaya, Selangor Malaysia Tel: +603 9544 3938 E-mail: yasui@flp-yomiko.com
Editor in Chief Kunio Yasui
Japan & Singapore Editorial Team
Naoki Kiyota / Ayako Miyazaki Chew Yan Qiao / Eric Voon / Michelle Kan Yuka Suzuki / Kenji Ishida
Photographer
Hajime Watanabe
Partners 16
NHK World JAPAN video on demand review On my watchlist
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JPN47: Yamagata
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Main front gate to Shimogamo Shrine & Kamigamo Shrine
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Photography Tips
A Basic Guide to Landscape Photography Launched in February this year, the Canon EOS M50 is lightweight, userfriendly, and has dynamic range. The perfect camera to bring along to capture breathtaking scenery, this article will cover some basic tips to help you get you started on your photo journey!
Bring the right equipment
The importance of lighting
The best timing for taking photos are usually just after sunrise or just before sunset. During these moments, the light that falls on the subject of the photo is less harsh, thus making the colours pop. You will end up with a picture having better contrast and appearing more vibrant.
As a mirrorless camera, the Canon EOS M50 is the perfect tool for capturing landscape images that are filled with refined details and rich colours. Other useful equipment you can bring along include wide-angle lens and a tripod stand.
Canon EOS M50
Composition matters Find a wide backdrop
A vast open field is the best! Keep a moderate ratio of sky to showcase the landscape’s unique features. Shoot as wide an angle as possible while maintaining the balance of the photo. The Vari-angle LCD monitor feature in the Canon EOS M50 will come in handy when shooting at difficult angles.
Stick to the Rule of Thirds, which is the placement of the subject within the intersection of the grid lines. This helps to guide the viewer’s gaze to the focus of the photo. You can also use diagonals by creating points of interest or emphasize the distance between objects in the foreground and background to add depth.
For urban landscapes or architecture
Capturing straight lines is key. Sometimes, standing below the structure and using a wide-angle lens to point upwards might lead to unwanted distortion. Therefore, it is alright to take a few steps back to get a wider shot.
Adapted from Canon Snapshot, the One-stop Photography Portal. snapshot.canon-asia.com/ Photos taken by Canon EOS M50.
Three Sisters’ Road Trip
from Southern to Central
HOK K A IDO There is no better way to spend summer in Hokkaido than to travel by rental car! Explore the region’s vast natural landscapes with your best buds.
Otaru Sapporo
Trip goals Indulge in a recommended Onsen Ryokan in Hokkaido
Visit all the major tourist spots
Eat all the delicious food of the region
Experience Hokkaido like a true local
Noboribetsu Onsen Yunokawa Onsen Hakodate Hakodate Airport
Goryokaku Park
函館
Get to know the regions of Hokkaido! Japan’s northmost island consists of four main areas: Douou (道央 , Central Area), Dounan (道南, Southern Area), Doutou (道東 , Eastern Area) and Douhoku (道北 , Northern Area). This time, we drove up from Dounan to Douou where Sapporo, the biggest city in Hokkaido, is located.
五稜郭公園
HAKODATE
An aerial shot of the area. You can rent a boat to row around the moat for 40 minutes at the price of ¥2,000 for 2pax.
Upon arrival at Hakodate Airport, we rented a car immediately. We recommend reserving a car in advance to avoid disappointment as some rental car services may be fully booked for the day. By car, you can reach your first sightseeing destination in just 30 minutes from the airport! These three places are not to be missed: ❶ Goryokaku Park, ❷ The night view of Hakodate, and ❸ Hakodate Morning Market.
The Night View of Hakodate
e who can that thos It is said takana word for spot the ka e illumination will th “ heart” in d true love! fin
Built in 1886, this is the first French-style fortress constructed in Japan. Learn its history as you roam the place; you will find cannons and moats left from the past in the park! What makes this area unique is the star-shaped feature—you can get a good view of it from the observation deck of Goryokaku Tower.
函館夜景
You can reach the summit of Mt. Hakodate via the ropeway in just 3 minutes for ¥1,280. (Round trip) Hakodateyama, Hakodate-shi 0138-273130 Daily 10am – 10pm (Park closes at 9pm from 16 Oct to 24 Apr) Free admission for observation deck 3-minute via the ropeway from Sanroku Ropeway Station
Located 334 metres above ground, the night view from Mt. Hakodate Observatory is like a sparkling jewel. With both sides encompassed by the sea, such a scene is truly rare in Japan. It is no wonder this beautiful sight was ranked No. 1 for the most impressive night view according to a JTB survey. The charms of the scenery change with every season, drawing visitors to return. | WAttention Malaysia
Hakodate Morning Market
函館朝市
A romanti c perfect fo night view, r dates ♥
Be dazzled by the gorgeous illumination of the streets. There is a therapeutic effect just by taking in the sight!
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44 Goryokaku-cho, Hakodate-shi 0138-40-3605 Daily 5am – 7pm (Park closes at 6pm during the months Nov to Mar) Free 15-minute walk from Goryokaku Koen Mae Station
d This star-shape fortress is just spectacular!
The Hakodate Morning Market began as a post-war black market in 1945. Today, it is patronised by locals and tourists. The market houses about 250 stalls selling fresh ocean catch, fruits and vegetables; there is also a food court where you can eat kaisendon, sushi, ramen and many more. It is most active from 8am to 10am, so we highly recommend having breakfast here!
9-19 Wakamatsucho, Hakodate-shi 0138-22-7981 Daily 5am – 12pm (May vary depending on shop) JR Hakodate Station
Before m purchase, a king a try samples a as many s you can!
Try catching a live squid yourself! You’ll be surprised by how difficult it is to get your hands on one…One try costs from ¥700. Open from 6am to 1.30pm.
登別温泉
Jigokudani 地獄谷
White fumes rise from the ground as the hot water reaches a boil from the iron springs.
NOBORIBETSU ONSEN Located about 120 kilometres from Sapporo, Noboribetsu Hot Spring is one of the most famous hot spring resorts in Japan. Visitors flock to this area annually due to the huge variety of options, most notably the sulphur spring. Hot springs aside, the following places are definitely worth a visit: ❶ Jigokudani, ❷ Oyunumagawa Natural Footbath, ❸ Oni Hanabi of Jigokudani, ❹ Noboribetsu Marine Park Nixe, ❺ Noboribetsu Date Jidaimura.
Oyunumagawa Natural Footbath
jigoku So this is how (hell) feels like… Noribestu Onsenmachi, Noribetsu-shi 0143-84-3311 Open for public viewing any time of the day
大湯沼川天然足湯
Noboribetsu Enma Yakisoba
We discovered a spot with natural footbaths where water flowed from the hot springs of Ooyunuma. If you are tired from your stroll through the nearby forests, wooden benches are available for you to take a break.
the Clear waters at e ur at er mp te t ec perf
Noribestu Onsenmachi, Noribetsu-shi 0143-843311 Open for public viewing any time of the day 20-minute walk from Noribetsu Onsen Bus Terminal
Oni Hanabi of Jigokudani
地獄の谷の鬼花火
登別閻魔やきそば
50 Noribestu Onsenmachi, Noribetsu-shi 0143-84-2560 Daily, 11:30am – 10pm (Park closes at 6pm during the months Nov to Mar) 5-minute walk from Noribetsu Onsen Bus Terminal
The word “Enma” (閻魔) refers to the appearance of Ojizo-sama (お地蔵様, a Shinto deity who is the guardian of children and protector of travellers) when he disciplines a selfish person. This slightly spicy yakisoba with hints of sesame is a reminder to remember kindness among strictness. Try this dish at any of the 33 Enma Yakisoba stores within Noboribetsu hot springs.
During this festival, people pray for happiness, health and good luck. The masks worn by the firework technicians represent the Yukijin demon; legend says that they are the guardians of Jigokudani. The firework display is rather spectacular.
Noboribetsu Marine Park Nixe
登別マリンパークニクス
Jigokudani Observation Deck, Noribestu Onsenmachi, Hokkaido Noribetsu-shi Thu-Fri from 8.30pm, only during the months Jun and Jul Free Jigokudani Obervation Deck, 15-minute bus ride from Noribetsu Station
, demons who Yukijin (湯鬼神 gs) march Watching the rin sp boribetsu hot protect the No so cool! is nd ha in ks with firewor
Noboribetsu Date Jidaimura
The existing calderas we see today resulted from an eruption some 10,000 years ago. With boiling water and steam emitting from the ground, the area resembled hell. Thus, it was later known as “Jigokudani”— “hell’s valley”. Not only does it offer a huge variety, the place also produces 10,000 tonnes of hot springs a day and supply some of its water to hotels and ryokans nearby.
登別伊達時代村
Dance performance by Japanese courtesans.
s waddling! Adorable penguin e them ♥ lik ng lki Let’s try wa
Built to replicate the cityscape of the Edo period from 400 years ago, visitors can experience the ancient culture and customs at this theme park. We were able to rent Ninja costumes and undergo some training they had in the past! Other attractions include an energetic Ninja performance and an Oiran (花魁, courtesans) showcase; it felt like we were transported back in time!
ninjas! We are certified aki im ch ha r ou k ec Ch nds). ba ad he , き ま (はち
53-1 Noribetsumachi, Noribetsu-shi Daily 9am – 5pm (Park closes at 4pm during the months Nov to Mar) ¥2,900 (Middle school students and above), ¥1,500 (Primary school students), ¥600 (Children 4 years and below) http://edotrip.jp/en/ *Reservation required for Ninja Experience Available on Sat, Sun & PH during 21 Jul’18 (Sat) – 19 Aug’18 (Sun), and 13 Aug’18 (Mon) – 15 Aug’18 (Wed) Inclusive of costume rental, ¥2,700 (Primary school students), ¥3,240 (Middle school students) 8-minute bus ride from JR Noribetsu Station
Catch exciting sea lion and dolphin shows with the whole family at this North European and marine fantasy-themed aquarium! The highlight is the wondrous light and music showcase in the “Galaxy Aquarium” which features 10,000 sardines. Other popular shows include the penguin parade. 1-22 Noribetsu-higashicho, Noribetsu-shi 0143-83-3800 Daily 9am – 5pm (Last admission 4.30pm) ¥2,450 (Middle school students and above), ¥1,250 (Primary school students and children 4 years old), Free (Children below 3 years old) 5-minute walk from JR Noribetsu Station https://www.nixe.co.jp/pdf/leaflet_eng.pdf WAttention Malaysia |
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Former Hokkaido Government Office
札幌
北海道庁旧本庁舎
Established in 1888, the Former Hokkaido Government Office was an important symbol as the administration centre of Hokkaido. You can almost feel the history of Hokkaido’s development come alive just by touching the red bricks―an architecture style reminiscent of America.
SAPPORO
When it comes to the heart of Hokkaido, nothing can beat Sapporo. From sightseeing and shopping to gastronomical adventures, the region is just brimming with attractions to explore! These are three highly-recommend spots: ❶ Former Hokkaido Government Office, ❷ Sapporo Hitsujigaoka Observation Hill, ❸ Mt. Moiwa Summit Observation Deck.
About 2.5 million bricks are used for the outer walls of the building. The vibrant flower gardens surrounding the building nicely complement the entire look of the compound! 3-6 Chuo-ku, Sapporo-shi 011-204-5019 (Mon – Fri), 011-204-5000 (Sat & Sun) Daily 8.45am – 6pm Free 7-minute walk from JR Sapporo Station South Exit
Sapporo Hitsujigaoka Observation Hill
さっぽろ羊ヶ丘展望台
Built in 1959, The Sapporo Hitsujigaoka Observation Hill is best known as the site of Dr Clark’s statue, who was famous for the phrase “Boys be ambitious!”. The vast nature of the area changes with each season, giving tourists something new to look forward to with each visit. You can also eat the popular dish Jingisukan here.
The three-section section arch at the main hallway, beautifully decorated with intricate engravings on the railings of the stairway.
Savour some hearty Jingisukan (ジンギスカン, Japanese grilled mutton) at the rest house. Not only does the dish has many health benefits, the meat is exceptionally tender and soft!
Pastoral views of grazing sheep~
e field behind th The wide open ke is a great ar Cl r D of statue oto fun! backdrop for ph
Catch the lavender fields in full bloom during July and inhale the fresh floral scents! You can even take some home for free during certain period♪
Mt. Moiwa Summit Observation Deck
ful it is to bask Ah, how wonder of nature! ns in the lush gree from the way A perfect geta of the city ♪ le hustle and bust 1 Hitsujigaoka, Sapporo-shi 011-2851-3080 Daily 9am – 5pm 10-minute bus ride from Subway Toho Line Fukuzumi Station
¥520
もいわ山山頂展望台
The ropeway journey from Moiwa Sanroku Station to Moiwa Chufuku Station via the Morris Car!
The air up here is crisp and cool, making it a simply refreshing place to be. This is also known to be a romantic spot !
With an altitude of 531 metres, Mt. Moiwa Observation Deck boasts the most beautiful nightscape of Sapporo City. Here, you can take in a full 360 degree view of the metropolis. If you’re in the area, be sure to make this famous scenic spot a mustgo destination! Bring along an outerwear as it can get quite chilly, even during summer. 14
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The “Fortune Bell” at the observation deck. Couples who ring the bell together will find happiness!
3-7-5 Chuo-ku, Sapporo-shi 011-561-8177 Daily 10.30am – 9.30pm (Park opens from 11am during the months Nov to Mar) ¥1,700 for ropeway + Morris Car return trip 10-minute walk from Moiwa Sanroku Station Sapporo Shiden (Streetcar) Ropeway Entrance http://moiwa.sapporo-dc.co.jp
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Tax Free
Happy Coupon
Get your tax-free procedure done at any of the 37
Scan this QR code for a
tax-free counters, open from 10am to 8pm daily.
5% discount coupon
Simply flash your passport and receipt to receive your tax refund, valid for same-day purchases only.
*Applies to selected items only.
AEON Hokkaido Your one-stop department store! M u st
From seasonal foods to local delights, healthcare and beauty products, AEON Hokkaido offers a wide selection to fit your every need.
ts t treoa e e w aid -try s Hokk
EON from A
Lotte Petit Busse (Waguri Mont Blanc) 149 yen Calbee Osatsu Snacks 86 yen
SENKA face wash (New pink packaging, Collagen in) 537 yen Biore UV Mild Care Milk 615 yen
KTCCL Lip Oil 993 yen
Morinagaseika Waguri Cake 213 yen KTCCL Tint Gel 756 yen
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Saviour the flavours of Hokkaido at the various restaurants and food court.
KTCCL Cream 432 yen
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Free Wi-Fi
40 stores
all over Hokkaido AEON MAP
Wi-Fi connection is available at 12 branches of AEON Hokkaido
Check our website for more info
http://welcome-aeon-hokkaido.jp/en/
Reviewer
YW Lam
NHK WORLD-JAPAN offers free-to-view programs that introduce lesser known sights in Japan as well as informative educational shows. Aside from English, a total of eight other languages are available, making the programs accessible to people from all around the world.
3-Day Dare*Devils
A Heavenly Onsen beyond the Cliffs of Hell Duration: 15 mins
Born and raised in sunny Singapore, YW holds a double degree in Journalism and Public Relations and has been active as an editor/copywriter for nearly three years. Her favourite destinations in Japan include Hakodate (Hokkaido), Kobe (Hyogo) and Kamikochi (Nagano).
Follow popular Indonesian influencer Edho Zell’s trek to the top 3-Day Dare*Devils is a new entertainment-style documentary featuring special guests from across Asia who fly in to Japan to take on different challenges. Discover another side to the Japan you know and love through the eyes of the daredevil! The show kicks off with famous Indonesian social media influencer Edho Zell meeting his guide on Day 1, who brings him on his first hike up a 3-kilometre mountain trail where a hidden hot spring lies. Watching Edho struggle reminded me of a tough uphill climb I did in Bali and the aches and pains which followed, so it was easy to empathise with him. However, he still managed to inject humour into the situation, keeping the show light-hearted and entertaining.
Journey through the wilderness to soak in legendary waters.
Can Edho finally make it to the secret onsen?
Be rewarded with the crystal clear waters of Hirogawara after an arduous climb.
Watch this episode now!
Available till May 16, 2019
Unable to finish the course, Edho visits a temple to pray for success on the second day and is renewed with positive energy. His guide then drops a bombshell — he has to climb down a 30-metre cliff! Sharing his fear of heights and having hated high elements since trying them at secondary school adventure camps, I could feel my heart beating fast and mouth going dry as he made his way down the near-vertical cliff. On Day 3, I could feel myself cheering him on as he overcame obstacle after obstacle, including crossing gushing streams and a treacherous, pathless stretch to reach Hirogawara Onsen. Having Edho experience the course makes it more real and relatable to me, who has never scaled a mountain before. The fun-filled program also made me curious about hitō ( 秘湯), or secret onsen, and where to find them in Japan. Throughout the show, Edho’s exuberance is contagious, so you feel like rejoicing when he finally reaches the top. Catch this and loads more daredevil adventures on NHK WORLD-JAPAN today!
#TOKYO
Keyword: Budget Hotel Duration: 15 mins
Instagram-worthy hotels designed to fit both your budget and expectations Find out what’s trending in Tokyo on social media! #TOKYO features only the best and the latest as chosen by experienced travellers. In this episode, we are introduced to some of the most highly reviewed budget accommodations in Tokyo. The incredibly informative program even shows you step-by-step instructions on how to get from the airport to each location. We also get to tour the place and see the sleeping quarters for a better understanding of each hostel or hotel. I especially love the unique concept behind Book and Bed Tokyo, a bookshop-themed hostel, which is a must-stay for bookworms and those who want to meet like-minded book lovers. Don’t forget to snap and share photos with the hashtag #TOKYO when you visit, and you might just see your recommendation appear on the show! 16
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These top-rated hostels are easy on your wallets yet uncompromising in quality.
Watch this episode now!
Available till June 30, 2019 For more information, go to
山 形 県
SIGHT-SEEING
EXPLORE JAPAN’S PREFECTURE
Writer’s profile: Chew Yan Qiao – Currently living his dream in Japan. Cannot live without Japanese food and enjoys discovering the hidden charms of every prefecture.
YAMAGATA
Ginzan Onsen 銀山温泉
Kuhe Hotel 九兵衛旅館 山形
Fruit picking at Takahashi Fruitland
Mt. Haguro Gojū-tō 羽黒山 五重塔
Dinner at Kuhe
Fresh greens
Yummy soup
Smoothies from baby green
YAMAGATA - BASK IN AN IDYLLIC NATURE PARADISE
Shonai Airport [Domestic] おいしい庄内空港
An up and coming prefecture in the Tohoku region to visit amongst Singaporeans, this destination has everything a nature lover will swoon over. Simply breathing in the fresh air here will revitalise you! While there are plenty of places to visit in Yamagata, here are a few of the most memorable ones. Mt. Haguro (羽黒山) is one of the Three Mountains of Dewa in the ancient province of Dewa (modern-day Yamagata Prefecture and Akita Prefecture). Standing at 414 metres, this is the lowest of the three mountains and the only one which is accessible throughout the year. Visitors will need to climb 2,466 stone steps to reach its summit, passing by 600-year-old cedar trees and the famous Gojū-tō (五重塔, five story pagoda) along the way. The steps and pagoda are known for being National Treasures (国宝), the most precious of Japan's Tangible Cultural Properties. As you venture deep into the mysterious mountains of Yamagata, you will get to enjoy the crisp, cool air and lush greenery. 18
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Another must-go is Ginzan Onsen (銀山温泉) , where you can rent traditional costumes popular during the Taisho era and stroll along the atmospheric streets and river. Be sure to visit the place in winter, as the beautiful snowfall provides a magnificent scene for all to enjoy.
Yamagata Prefecture 山形県
Yamagata Station 山形駅
At night, rest and relax at Kuhe Hotel (九兵衛旅館 山形) , a grand, secluded Japanese ryokan with hot spring services. After a nice soak, feast upon an exquisite dinner made using locally grown produce. The luxurious meal was so good that it made my heart sing with glee! If you like hands-on experiences, try fruit-picking at Takahashi Fruitland in Kaminoyama City. Sign up for the hour-long grapes picking session and be prepared to eat as many big, juicy grapes as you can. While roaming around the city area, keep an eye out for creative smoothies from baby green , a brand made with only the freshest local ingredients. Taste the refreshing goodness and don’t forget to take a cute Instagram snap of the drinks before you gulp them down!
Sendai Airport 東仙台空港
Tokyo 東京都
Tokyo Station Yamagata Station Shinkansen 2hr 30min ¥11,000 (S$134.64~) Narita Airport Shonai Airport Airplane 1hr ¥23,180~ (S$283.72~)