Kodawari Times

19/12/2025

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Experience Aomori's snow, traditional crafts & gourmet cuisine
Hoshino Resorts Kai Tsugaru
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●Japan's Snow Country: Tsugaru
The Tsugaru region of Aomori Prefecture, located at the northernmost tip of Japan's Honshu island, is renowned as a snow country, enveloped in a pure white world during winter. In his travelogue Tsugaru, the renowned writer Osamu Dazai, a native of Tsugaru, describes the snow falling here as seven distinct types.
This time, we introduce a seasonal event themed around Seven Snows.

●Hoshino Resorts Kai Tsugaru
At Kai Tsugaru, a Hoshino Resorts Onsen inn located in Owani Onsen, Aomori Prefecture, the theme of these “Seven Snows” inspires the creation of the fantastical “Seven Snows Kamakura.” These original snow huts, each handcrafted by staff, feature the “Tsugaru Seven Snows Kogin Illumination” adorning their outer walls. This illumination showcases the Seven Snows pattern from the traditional Tsugaru craft of “Kogin Stitching”.

●Seven Snow Amuse and Reservations
Guests can also enjoy the “Seven Snow Amuse” dish, which luxuriously features Oma tuna prepared in seven distinct ways to represent the “Seven Snows,” paired with local sake.
As this is a limited-time plan for February 2026, please book early.

Period: February 1 - 28, 2026
Price: ¥5,000 per person (tax included)
Reservations and details on the official website https://hoshinoresorts.com/en/hotels/kaitsugaru/

17/12/2025

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Discover Japan Like Never Before!
TOMOGO!
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●Experience Japanese culture
TOMOGO! is a tour booking platform for Japan travel launched in 2024 by TANGLE Inc. It matches you with tour guides who deeply understand Japan’s hidden charms, allowing you to choose the perfect tour from a wide range of options. Its appeal lies in offering locally focused tour experiences that take you to lesser-known spots across Japan, helping you discover new facets of the country.
Now, let’s discover the charm of this welcoming town together with our friendly tour leader!

●Taiyaki Experience (Tokyo, Akasaka)
At Okuman-ya in Akasaka,Tokyo, a special tour lets you make your own taiyaki. Taiyaki is a traditional Japanese confection made by baking wheat flour batter shaped like a sea bream, filled with sweet red bean paste or cream. Learn about the culture and history of taiyaki while crafting and enjoying your very own creation. After the taiyaki experience, you can visit Hie Shrine, famous for its thousand torii gates, and enjoy exploring Akasaka.

●Sushi Experience (Kawagoe, Saitama)
Kawagoe City in Saitama Prefecture is an ideal area for strolling, featuring the old townscape preserved from the Edo period, known as “Koedo Kawagoe.”
Here, you can experience making traditional Japanese sushi at the 140-year-old traditional Japanese house cafe, Musubiya. Under the careful guidance of a skilled sushi chef, learn not only the techniques but also the history of sushi and the Japanese spirit.

●Yanesen Tour (Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo)
Yanesen refers to the area encompassing the Yanaka, Nezu, and Sendagi districts in Tokyo’s Bunkyo Ward. Having escaped damage from the Great Kanto Earthquake and wartime destruction, it retains a nostalgic atmosphere, making it a precious place where you can experience Tokyo’s past.
While strolling through the historic streets, you can visit shrines, purchase souvenirs at traditional shops, and explore cafes, bars, and restaurants.

●Travel Companion: The Tour Leader
Shumpei
Shumpei, a soccer enthusiast. He guides you through Tokyo’s hidden gems and local folklore from a uniquely Japanese perspective. Recommended for those seeking a friendly Japanese guide!
Melissa
Melissa, originally from Mexico, has traveled and explored over 47 countries. Our guides are knowledgeable and friendly, like true travel professionals.

●Download the app and book your tour!
For first-time visitors to Japan, and anyone wanting to discover Japan’s hidden gems, we highly recommend TOMOGO! tours.
To experience special tours curated by tour leaders across Japan—including Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, Hiroshima, and Hokkaido—first download the app!
Reservations can be easily made through the inquiry form. We hope you enjoy a wonderful trip to Japan with TOMOGO!

★Click here to see the details of the information.
https://kodawari-times.net/experience/tomogo/

12/12/2025

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TripAdvisor Japan Announces!
Top Hotels and Spots for Winter Sports This Season 2025
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●Japan's Winter Season Has Arrived
Japan has entered the heart of winter season! This time, we introduce “Popular Hotels and Spots for Winter Sports This Winter 2025*,” announced by the Japanese version of the world's largest travel platform, Tripadvisor®.
*The ranking is based on search data from TripAdvisor, covering hotel check-in dates from December 1, 2025, to February 28, 2026, and page views for destinations from December 2024 to February 2025.

●Top Hotels for Winter Sports in 2025
1: Hoshino Resorts Tomamu The Tower (Hokkaido)
2: Hilton Niseko Village (Hokkaido)
3: Naeba Prince Hotel (Niigata Prefecture)
4: Rusutsu Resort (Hokkaido)
5: Karuizawa Prince Hotel West (Nagano Prefecture)
6: The Green Leaf Niseko Village (Hokkaido)
7: Shiga Kogen Prince Hotel (Nagano Prefecture)
8: Hoshino Resorts Risonare Tomamu (Hokkaido)
9: Club Med Hokkaido Tomamu (Hokkaido)
10: Shin Furano Prince Hotel (Hokkaido)

●Top Winter Sports Destinations for 2025
1: Gala Yuzawa Snow Resort (Niigata Prefecture)
2: Niseko Tokyu Grand Hirafu (Hokkaido)
3: Hakuba Happo-one (Nagano Prefecture)
4: Yamagata Zao Onsen Ski Resort (Yamagata Prefecture)
5: Nozawa Onsen Ski Resort (Nagano Prefecture)
6: Hakuba (Nagano Prefecture)
7: Fujiten Snow Resort (Yamanashi Prefecture)
8: Niseko Village Ski Resort (Hokkaido)
9: Shiga Kogen Ski Area (Nagano Prefecture)
10: Furano Ski Resort (Hokkaido)

●For reference in Japanese winter sports
Winter tourism remains popular in areas like Hokkaido, Niigata, and Nagano, where heavy snowfall and abundant ski resorts abound! Especially for winter sports enthusiasts, resorts offering easy access from urban centers—combining ski slopes with Onsen—tend to be top choices. We hope this serves as a helpful reference for your winter travels in Japan!
▼TripAdvisor Official Website
https://www.tripadvisor.jp/

10/12/2025

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Collect Daruma Dolls While Touring Hotels Across Japan
Autograph Daruma Journey
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●Autograph Daruma Journey
Japan's five distinctive Autograph Collection hotels. The Autograph Daruma Journey campaign allows you to collect palm-sized limited-edition Autograph Daruma dolls—each embodying the unique essence of a hotel—and embark on a journey.
Running from January 1, 2026, for approximately one year, this journey transforms stays into a collection experience.

●THE OSAKA STATION HOTEL, Autograph Collection
Inspired by railway heritage that weaves memories of the original Osaka Station, which opened in 1874, this design features the motif of ticket punch dies used at major stations in Western Japan.
The pattern of daruma figures fluttering down symbolizes the accumulation of time, while the colors—gold and black, reflecting the hotel’s logo—embody the aspiration to take strong root in this land.

●The Prince Kyoto Takaragaike, Autograph Collection
The iron door of BAR ASCOT, symbolizing architect Togo Murano’s aesthetic sensibility, serves as the motif expressing the hotel’s timeless spirit. Infused with Japanese design elements reminiscent of a kimono sash, the design embodies the harmony between Kyoto’s local culture and refined quality.
The design of the kanji character for “treasure” (宝), also featured in the hotel’s name, is truly lovely.

●The Prince Sakura Tower Tokyo, Autograph Collection
The soft Sakura (cherry blossom) hues and floral patterns echoing the Japanese garden express a sense of renewal throughout the seasons. The Autograph Daruma, captures scenes unique to each moment and the resonant chime of the bell—a symbol of the Japanese garden—as time flows by. With Sakura as its seasonal theme, it evokes a dignified Japanese aesthetic.

●TIAD, Autograph Collection
The motif of Yabane (arrow feathers), inspired by the origin of the name Yabacho in Nagoya—home to TIAD—and the site of the Owari Tokugawa clan’s archery range (a place where bow shooting practice took place), conveys the dynamic energy of each yabane (arrow feather) through brush-drawn lines, communicating Nagoya’s history and culture.

●Mesm Tokyo, Autograph Collection
The design features gold brushstrokes layered over midnight blue, embodying the rhythm and contrast of the brand concept “TOKYO WAVES.” The gold pattern evoking waves and the central “東京波-TOKYO WAVES” lettering symbolize the city’s dynamism, aspiration, and driving force. This design expresses Tokyo’s vibrancy and stylish atmosphere, with the central calligraphy also conveying a distinctly Japanese feel.
●Let’s collect all five daruma dolls!
An Autograph Daruma Journey you receive when staying at the hotel. While quantities are limited, a storage case for five figures is also included, so be sure to collect all five signed daruma dolls within Japan!
Eligible Period: Thursday, January 1, 2026 (National Holiday) to Thursday, December 31, 2026
Participating Hotels (in alphabetical order):
THE OSAKA STATION HOTEL (Osaka) / The Prince Kyoto Takaragaike (Kyoto) /The Prince Sakura Tower Tokyo (Tokyo) / TIAD (Nagoya) / Mesm Tokyo (Tokyo)
How to Participate:
Reserve and stay at a participating hotel’s “Autograph Daruma Journey” accommodation plan to receive one ‘Autograph Daruma’ per adult per stay.

★Click here to see the details of the information.
https://kodawari-times.net/goods/autograph-daruma-journey/

05/12/2025

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4 Recommended Souvenirs from the Senshu Area
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●The Merchant Town, Senshu
The Senshu area developed as a hub for shipping and commerce, with merchants supporting its economy.
In the 17th century, it prospered as a major production center for cotton cloth known as Izumi cotton. Even today, the textile industry thrives in the Senshu region, with “Senshu Towels” and “Izumi Cotton” promoted as branded products both domestically and internationally.

●Sakai Cutlery
Traditional knives and blades crafted in Sakai City. Each blade is meticulously handcrafted by artisans, renowned for its durability and exceptional sharpness. These knives cut smoothly without crushing food fibers, making them beloved by professional chefs worldwide. 17th-century Edo period, Sakai knives gained nationwide recognition through the production of to***co knives.

●Senshu Towels
In 1887, production began in Izumisano City on what became Japan's first towel, the Senshu Towel. These towels are made using the “Ato-sarashi(post-bleaching method),” where the “sarashi” process—bleaching out starch and impurities to achieve whiteness—is performed after the towel is woven. Finished with exceptional cleanliness, they are gentle enough for sensitive skin and babies, and boast outstanding absorbency.

●Sakai Incense
Incense sticks first arrived in Japan from China at the end of the 16th century, with Sakai City producing Japan’s first incense.
Renowned as a premium incense, Sakai incense features diverse blends of carefully selected natural fragrances, earning it the reputation as an artistic fragrance. It is also designated as a Traditional Craft of Osaka Prefecture.

●Izumi Glass
Glassmaking techniques were introduced from Europe in the late 19th century, and by the early 20th century, the craft had become established and flourished in Izumi City.
Initially, colored glass beads were made for use in Buddhist prayer beads and hairpins. Traditional glass beads (tonbodama) are still made today, and visitors can even try their hand at making them.

★Click here to see the details of the information.
https://kodawari-times.net/sightseeing/senshu-area-osaka/

03/12/2025

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Southern Osaka Prefecture, Rich in Traditional Japanese Culture
Senshu, Osaka Prefecture, Japan
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●What is the Osaka-Senshu area?
The Senshu area collectively refers to 13 municipalities (9 cities and 4 towns) located in the southwestern part of Osaka Prefecture: Sakai City, Takaishi City, Izumiotsu City, Izumi City, Tadaoka Town, Kishiwada City, Kaizuka City, Kumatori Town, Izumisano City, Tajiri Town, Sennan City, Hannan City, and Misaki Town. Kansai International Airport is also located here, making it a tourist area with convenient air access.

●Tomb of Emperor Nintoku (Sakai City)
Registered as a World Heritage site in 2019 under the name “Mozu-Furuichi Kofun Group,” this is one of the world’s three largest burial mounds and Japan’s largest Zenpo-koen-fun (keyhole-shaped tumulus).
For those wishing to view the kofun from above, we recommend MI-TE Sakai (the observation lobby on the 21st floor of the Sakai City Hall High-Rise Building) or the gas balloon “Osaka Sakai Balloon,” which began operations in October 2025.

●Kishiwada Castle (Kishiwada City)
Kishiwada Castle, alongside Osaka Castle, is one of the few castles in Osaka Prefecture with a keep. It is said to have been built in 1334 by the warrior Wada Takaie. Today, visitors can see the three-story, three-tiered keep constructed in 1954.
The beautiful scenery combining cherry blossoms in spring and autumn foliage with the castle tower is a given, but the Japanese garden known as the “Hachijin Garden” is also a major attraction.

●Mt. Inunaki (Izumisano City)
Japan’s oldest Shugendo sacred site with over 1,300 years of history. It was founded in 661 by En no Gyoja, the founder of Shugendo. The mountain name Inunaki-san originates from the legend of a loyal dog that saved its master hunter from a giant serpent.
At Shipporyu-ji Temple within the mountains, practitioners can undergo training while being struck by the waterfall known as Gyoja no Taki. (Reservation required)

●Danjiri Festival (The entire Senshu area)
The Danjiri Festival is the quintessential traditional event representing the Senshu area.
Residents powerfully pull ornate floats called danjiri—elaborately carved mountain floats used in shrine festivals—through the streets.
Every September and October, danjiri festivals are held throughout the Kansai region. Among them, the Kishiwada Danjiri Festival, held in its birthplace, is the most famous.

★Click here to see the details of the information.
https://kodawari-times.net/sightseeing/senshu-area-osaka/

28/11/2025

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4 Recommended Souvenirs & Gourmet Picks in Beppu
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●Beppu City in the Onsen Prefecture
Oita Prefecture, Japan's most famous Onsen destination, is home to Beppu City, which boasts the largest number of Onsen in Japan.
The “Beppu Hatto” (Eight Onsen of Beppu), featuring Beppu Onsen and seven other scattered Onsen within the city, and the “Jigoku Meguri” (Hell Steam Tour) visiting seven unique Onsen sources, are classic tourist attractions.

●Recommended Souvenirs (1) Beppu Bamboo Crafts
Oita Prefecture is Japan’s top producer of madake bamboo. Traditional crafts made from madake are produced mainly in Beppu City.
With over 200 distinct weaving techniques, the craft produces a wide range of items from everyday goods to fine art pieces. You can take home your favorite souvenirs, including baskets, strainers, small storage containers, and woven bags.

●Recommended Souvenirs (2) Kabosu
Kabosu, a fragrant citrus fruit native to Oita Prefecture. About the size of a tennis ball, it features a refreshing aroma and a mellow tartness. Enjoy its juice squeezed over grilled fish or fried chicken, or pair it perfectly with shochu or highballs. Within Beppu City, you can purchase various souvenirs featuring kabosu juice, such as dressings, juices, and snacks.

●Recommended Gourmet (1) Toriten (Chicken Tempura)
Oita Prefecture boasts the highest chicken consumption in Japan. While it features various dishes like Torimeshi (chicken rice) and Karaage (Fried chicken), “Toriten” (chicken tempura coated in a batter made from flour, egg, and water) stands out as a popular local specialty representing the prefecture.
ts crispy coating and juicy, tender chicken create an addictive texture.

●Recommended Gourmet (2) Jigoku-mushi (Hell Steam)
Jigoku-mushi, a cooking method passed down in Beppu’s Kannawa Onsen. True to its name, it uses the intense steam heat—around 100 degrees Celsius—blowing up from the hellish springs to steam and cook various ingredients like vegetables, eggs, fish, and meat. Since no oil is used, it’s healthy, and steaming concentrates the pure, natural flavor of the ingredients.

★Click here to see the details of the information.
https://kodawari-times.net/sightseeing/beppu-city-oita/

26/11/2025

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Japan's premier Onsen for Healing Body and Mind
Beppu City, Oita Prefecture, Japan
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●What is Beppu City, Oita Prefecture?
Oita Prefecture is renowned as Japan’s premier Onsen destination. Located in the central part of the east coast, Beppu City boasts over 2,800 Onsen sources, ranking first in Japan for both the number of sources and total output.
The steam rising from hot springs visible throughout the city offers a spectacular view unique to Japan’s premier onsen destination.

●Takegawara Onsen
This iconic public bathhouse in Beppu Onsen is located about a 10-minute walk from JR Beppu Station. Founded in 1879, it originally featured a bamboo-roofed bathhouse, later renovated with tile roofing, hence the name Takegawara Onsen.
Its signature feature is the Sunaba (sand bath), where visitors can cover themselves in sand warmed by the Onsen water, enjoyed alongside bathing.

●Kannawa Steam Bath
This historic Onsen was founded in 1276 during the Kamakura period by the monk Ippen Shonin.
Mushi-yu is a bathing method where you lie on medicinal herbs spread across an approximately 8-tatami-mat (about 142 square feet) stone chamber heated by the onsen’s steam. It gently warms you from the inside out, causing sweat to bead up.
After the mushi-yu, you can also enter a regular onsen bath to wash off the sweat.

●Steam Observation Deck
A viewpoint offering panoramic views of the steam rising from the Kannawa Onsen area, the townscape, and the surrounding mountains.
Beppu’s steam was selected as Japan’s second most beautiful landscape after Mount Fuji in NHK’s (Japan’s public broadcaster) “Landscapes of Japan We Want to Preserve for the 21st Century” in March 2001. Why not experience this unique Beppu scenery, along with the Kannawa Onsen?

●Jigoku Meguri (Hell Steam Tour)
Enjoying onsen in Beppu isn’t just about bathing. We also recommend the Jigoku Meguri tour, where you can see onsen vents spewing steam, hot mud, and boiling water at temperatures around 100°C.
The Kannawa area features seven unique hells, including the cobalt blue “Umi-Jigoku (Sea Hell)” and the crimson “Chi-no-ike Jigoku (Blood Pond Hell).” Visitors can enjoy not only the hellish scenery but also local cuisine and souvenir shopping.

★Click here to see the details of the information.
https://kodawari-times.net/sightseeing/senshu-area-osaka/

20/11/2025

Congratulations🎉 Thank you for your review!
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Made by the only sake brewery on Shodoshima using sake lees, this soap moisturise and soften my skin after prolonged usage.
Thank you Kodawari Times for this exquisite gift! 😃

19/11/2025

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Takamatsu City's Park, Like a Work of Art
Ritsurin Garden
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●One of Japan's Most Famous Gardens
Ritsurin Garden in Takamatsu City, Kagawa Prefecture, is a strolling daimyo garden constructed in the early Edo period (1603-1868), where quiet and leisurely time flows.
Six ponds and thirteen artificial hills are arranged across its vast grounds, borrowing the scenery of Mt. Shion, allowing visitors to enjoy beautiful views throughout the seasons.

●Traditional Japanese Pleasure Boat
The grounds feature historic structures like the Kikugetsu-tei and the Former Higurashi-tei. Visitors can also take a traditional Japanese boat tour around South Lake, which takes about 30 minutes.
Ritsurin Park has earned high praise both domestically and internationally, including the highest rating of three stars in the Michelin Green Guide Japan, ensuring you will have a special time.

●Asagayu is also available
Several dining spots are scattered throughout the grounds. At Hanazono-tei, open from 7:00 AM, you can enjoy Asagayu (morning porridge).
Why not spend a luxurious morning in the detached tea room, enjoying the garden view stretching out before you all to yourself?
*Advance reservations are required, so please check the official website.
https://hanazonotei.com/

17/11/2025

Congratulations on your win! Thank you for submitting your review. We're thrilled you love the vibrant colors of our Nishiguchi Kutsush*ta Socks. May their comfort bring you wonderful days!

Thank you Kodawari Times for the Nishiguchi Kutsush*ta sock! 😊
It's comfortable, and I received my favourite colour, really brighten my mood whole day 🥰