Treasures of Japan

About the destination: Hiroshima is an industrial city of wide boulevards and cross-crossing rivers, located along the coast of the Seto Inland Sea. Although many only know it for the horrific split second on August 6, 1945, when it became the site of the world's first atomic bomb attack, it is now a modern, cosmopolitan city with excellent cuisine and a bustling nightlife. There are two World Heritage Sites in Hiroshima. One is Itsukushima Shrine and the other is the A-Bomb Dome of the Hiroshima Peace Memorial. There are several historical places in Hiroshima. The Hiroshima castle stands in the center of Hiroshima-city. You can see the old town which was formed in Edo era at Tomonoura in Fukuyama-city and in Takehara-city, but in Hiroshima-city there are few old buildings as lots of buildings were destroyed by the atomic bomb. But some are still showing their toughness – for example, the Old Bank of Japan Hiroshima Branch, the Rest House and so on. Around the peace memorial park, you can see many kinds of statues for praying the victims of the atomic bomb. The whole of Hiroshima can be a textbook of Hiroshima’s history.

About the destination: Welcome to Kurashiki, Japan's Hidden Gem Nestled in the Chugoku region of Okayama Prefecture, Kurashiki is a picturesque city where traditional Japan meets modern comforts. Known for its beautifully preserved Edo-period (1603-1868) canal area, Kurashiki is a destination that invites travelers to step back in time while enjoying the serene beauty of its historical architecture and natural surroundings. Begin your journey in the heart of the city, the Bikan Historical Quarter. With its weeping willows elegantly draping over the timeless canals and the stone bridges that arch over the waterways, the district is a perfect example of the city's storied past. Lined with white-walled storehouses and former merchants' homes, now converted into charming shops, cafes, and museums, the Bikan area is a delightful place to wander and discover. Don't miss the chance to take a traditional boat ride along the canal to fully immerse yourself in the ambiance of old Kurashiki. Art enthusiasts will find a haven at the Ohara Museum of Art, the first museum of Western art in Japan. Opened in 1930, the museum hosts a remarkable collection including works by European masters such as El Greco, Matisse, and Picasso, as well as pieces by prominent Japanese artists. After soaking in the art, enjoy a peaceful stroll through Ivy Square, a complex of ivy-clad brick buildings that once housed a textile mill but now serve as a symbol of the city's industrial heritage and a space for culture and leisure. Before leaving Kurashiki, make sure to indulge in the local cuisine. Sample the city's specialty, "demikatsu," a mouthwatering breaded pork cutlet with a rich demi-glace sauce, or savor the simplicity of fresh sushi and sashimi, testament to the region's access to the Seto Inland Sea's bounty. Whether you're here for the history, the culture, or the serene beauty, Kurashiki is a destination that promises an unforgettable experience in one of Japan's most enchanting cities.

About the destination: The present-day castle town of Matsue was originally established by Horio Yoshiharu, lord of the Matsue clan, when he built Matsue castle and planned the surrounding Castle town over a five-year period from 1607 to 1611. Matsue continued to be the seat of power in the Sanin Region for many years. Matsue was first ruled by the Horio family. Horio Yoshiharu's son Tadauji died before his father, thus the province was inherited by his grandson Tadaharu. However, Tadaharu died childless so the province was passed on to the Kyogoku. The Kyogoku were daimyō from Omi and Wakasa. Kyogoku Takatsugu served Nobunaga and Hideyoshi. Takatsugu's son Tadataka married the 4th daughter of Hidetada, Hatsu. He served in the Battle of Osaka and reportedly took 300 heads. In 1634, he received the province of Izumo, succeeding the childless Horio Tadaharu. During his rule he was instrumental in engineering projects that helped control the flow of the Hiikawa river.

About the destination: Osaka is a big modern city in Japan. It is the central metropolis of the Kansai region and the largest of the Osaka-Kobe-Kyoto trio. It is a lively and exciting place that exudes a definite charm. Its history is rich, its scenery is gorgeous, and it's well-located close to the major cultural centers of Kyoto and Nara, and just a few hours by bullet train to Tokyo. Osaka has two major city centers, Kita, north side, and Minami, south side. Kita is a large shopping and business area, Minami is Osaka's most famous entertainment district. Osaka’s major attractions are the impressive, beautifully restored, castle and the truly wonderful aquarium. Osaka has some striking modern architecture, a vibrant nightlife scene and tasty local cuisine. To experience the city’s nightlife head to bustling Dōtonbori, a street jammed with restaurants and bars. There are also some beautiful places to visit just outside of the city. Minoo is a suburb of Osaka which offers pleasant woodland, an impressive waterfall, hiking opportunities and a relaxing spa. Osaka combines historical, cultural and artistic attractions with all the delights of a modern Japanese metropolis. Japan's third-largest city offers an exciting atmosphere, with fantastic connections to some of the most historic cities in Japan.