Recommended Places to Try Hōtō

Here are three well-known spots near Mt. Fuji to experience authentic hōtō :

Hōtō Fudō (ほうとう不動) – Kawaguchiko North Main Branch

What makes it special : Famous for its giant cast-iron pots and thick handmade noodles. The modern white hut-shaped building is hard to miss.
Details : Tourist-friendly with English menus, quick service, and a warm, rustic atmosphere. Great after visiting Lake Kawaguchi or nearby caves.
Address : 〒401-0304 Yamanashi, Fujikawaguchiko, Kawaguchi 707
Official website : https://www.houtou-fudou.jp

Kosaku (小作) – Fujikawaguchiko Main Store

What makes it special : A local institution, serving deeply flavorful miso-based hōtō in large portions.
Details : Well-known for its authentic vibe and wide selection of side dishes. Expect a bit of a wait during peak times.
Address : 〒401-0301 Yamanashi, Fujikawaguchiko, Funatsu 2458
Official website: https://www.kosaku.co.jp

Hōtō Kura Funari (ほうとう蔵 歩成) – Funatsu Area

What makes it special : Award-winning hōtō with perfectly balanced miso and tender noodles. Slightly more upscale than traditional shops.
Details : Clean, modern design and friendly staff. A good choice for couples or travelers looking for a stylish lunch spot.
Address : 〒403-0004 Yamanashi, Fujiyoshida, Shimoyoshida 2-1-18
Official website: https://www.funari.jp

What’s the Difference Between Hōtō and Udon?

At first glance, hōtō may look like a type of udon—but they’re quite different in both texture and tradition.

🔹 Ingredients & Dough
While both use wheat flour, hōtō noodles contain no salt, unlike udon. This makes the dough softer and more rustic, and it absorbs the flavor of the soup better.

🔹 Shape & Texture
Udon noodles are typically round or square and smooth, but hōtō noodles are flat, wide, and unevenly cut. They are more chewy and starchy, giving the soup a slightly thickened texture after cooking together in the same pot.

🔹 Cooking Method
Hōtō noodles are simmered directly in the miso-based soup with vegetables, rather than boiled separately like udon. This process allows the noodles to thicken the broth and blend into the overall flavor.

🔹 Cultural Role
Hōtō is not served in a delicate, refined style like udon sometimes is. Instead, it’s seen as a rustic, local farmhouse dish—hearty, seasonal, and made to warm you up. It’s deeply rooted in Yamanashi’s rural food culture, especially in colder seasons.

From the flashing *Glico Running Man sign* to the *giant moving crab* at Kani Douraku, Dotonbori is Osaka’s most iconic destination.  
This is the home of *takoyaki*, *kushikatsu*, *neon lights*, and *countless photo spots*.  

In this guide, we’ll explore Dotonbori’s highlights—with one-point travel advice from our avatar guide, Kaede!

Glico Sign & Canal Life

The Glico Running Man has lit up Ebisubashi Bridge since 1935. Towering over the canal, this giant LED sign is a symbol of Osaka’s energy and pride.

The Glico Running Man has been glowing above the canal since 1935. It celebrates the Japanese candy company Glico and has become the ultimate Dotonbori landmark.

Tips for great photos

• Time : Visit at night for full neon glory
• Angle : Stand across the canal for a full shot
• Pose : Copy the runner or get creative—jump, dance, or dab!

Nearby, you’ll also find other fun signs like the moving crab at Kani Douraku, the octopus at Kukuru, and the iconic fugu fish from Zuboraya.

Kuidaore – Eat Like a Local in 3 Stops

Kuidaore means “eat until you drop”—and Dotonbori makes it dangerously easy.

From sizzling street snacks to full-course crab dinners, the options are endless. Here’s a 3-stop walking food tour to taste the best of the area :

1. Kukuru Takoyaki
Marked by a huge red octopus, Kukuru is one of the most famous takoyaki shops in Osaka.
The outer shell is perfectly crispy, while the inside stays molten and packed with fresh octopus.

2. Kani Douraku
Famous for its moving crab sign, this restaurant serves premium crab dishes in a calm, traditional setting.
It’s a chance to experience omotenashi, Japan’s famous hospitality culture.

3. Kushikatsu Daruma
A local favorite for deep-fried skewers. Pair your food with a cold beer and enjoy over 30 skewer options.
Top recommendations : original pork, chicken meatball (tsukune), garlic chicken—and don’t forget: no double-dipping!

❓ Quick Questions About Dotonbori

A Bite of History

Though today it’s famous for food, Dotonbori began in 1612 when a merchant named Yasui Doton dug a canal to boost local commerce. The area soon blossomed into an entertainment hub, filled with kabuki theaters and tea houses.
While most theaters are gone now, the spirit remains—especially at the still-operating Shochikuza Theater.

Getting There

You can access Dotonbori from :
• Namba Station (Osaka Metro / Nankai Line)
• Nipponbashi Station (Osaka Metro)
• Kintetsu-Nipponbashi Station (Kintetsu Line)
From Shin-Osaka : Midosuji Line → Namba (15 min)
From Kansai Airport : Nankai Line → Namba (40 min)

What Is the Philosopher’s Path?

The Philosopher’s Path (Tetsugaku no Michi) is a scenic 2-kilometer walkway that runs alongside a cherry tree-lined canal in Kyoto’s Higashiyama district. Named after the famous Kyoto University philosopher Nishida Kitaro, who used the path for daily meditation walks, it offers a calm and contemplative escape from the city bustle.

This path connects the iconic Ginkaku-ji (Silver Pavilion) in the north to Nanzen-ji Temple in the south, passing smaller temples, shrines, and charming residential areas along the way. In spring, the cherry blossoms form a stunning tunnel of pink, drawing visitors from around the world.

History of the Path

The canal that borders the Philosopher’s Path was originally part of a waterway built in the Meiji period to help bring water from Lake Biwa to Kyoto. Over time, the path beside it became popular for daily walks.

In the 20th century, the trail was named after Nishida Kitaro, who helped shape modern Japanese philosophy. Locals and visitors alike began to cherish the area’s serene charm, and the route was gradually preserved as a public walking path.

Today, the Philosopher’s Path stands as a blend of natural beauty, intellectual history, and spiritual presence.

Highlights & Nearby Spots

Best Time to Visit

How to Get There

• Start at Ginkaku-ji:
From Kyoto Station, take bus #5 or #17 to Ginkakuji-michi (35–40 min), then walk 5 minutes.

• Start at Nanzen-ji / Eikan-dō area:
From Kyoto Station, take the subway to Keage Station (Tozai Line), then walk 10 minutes.

Tip: Start early in the morning or visit on a weekday for a more peaceful experience.

Quick Q&A – Philosopher’s Path

Visitor Info

📍 Location: Higashiyama District, Kyoto
🕒 Suggested Visit Duration: 1–2 hours
👟 Recommended: Comfortable walking shoes, seasonal attire
🌸 Best Time to Visit: Early April (cherry blossoms) or mid-November (fall colors)

Why Is Itsukushima Shrine Famous?

Itsukushima Shrine (厳島神社) is one of Japan’s most iconic and photogenic landmarks—famous for appearing to float on the sea. Built in the late 6th century and expanded in its current form by warlord Taira no Kiyomori in the 12th century, the shrine sits on stilts over the tidal flats of Hiroshima Bay. At high tide, it looks like it’s drifting atop the water.

This unique design symbolizes the sacred nature of the island: according to ancient beliefs, the entire island of Itsukushima is holy ground, and no ordinary person should set foot on it. To respect that, the shrine was constructed offshore—allowing worshipers to pray without violating the sacred land.

Why is it built in the water?

It’s not just for beauty. The shrine’s position reflects Shinto beliefs about purity and nature. The ever-changing tide is a reminder of nature’s rhythm, and the reflection of the torii gate and buildings on the water makes the shrine seem alive with the sea itself.

In 1996, Itsukushima Shrine was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, cementing its importance not just to Japan, but to world culture. It is also considered one of the Three Scenic Views of Japan (Nihon Sankei), alongside Matsushima Bay and Amanohashidate.

What’s the Difference Between Itsukushima and Miyajima?

Technically, the island is called Itsukushima (厳島), but almost everyone refers to it as Miyajima (宮島), which means “Shrine Island.” The nickname comes from Itsukushima Shrine itself—so central to the island that it gave rise to the popular name.
Historically, “Itsukushima” appears in official records, maps, and religious texts, while “Miyajima” became widely used by locals and travelers over the centuries. Today, both names are used interchangeably, but if you see “Miyajima,” it generally refers to the island as a destination, while “Itsukushima” often refers to the shrine or the spiritual concept.

What Is Special About Miyajima?

Miyajima is special not just because of Itsukushima Shrine, but because the entire island is considered sacred. For centuries, people believed that deities resided in the island’s mountains, forests, and waters. Even today, nature and tradition are deeply intertwined here.
Beyond the famous torii gate, you’ll find:

Whether you’re watching the sunrise over the floating torii or wandering quiet backstreets, Miyajima offers a unique balance of spiritual calm and cultural richness.

How to Get to Miyajima from Hiroshima

Step 1: Train to Miyajimaguchi

From Hiroshima Station, take the JR Sanyo Line to Miyajimaguchi Station (about 25 minutes). Alternatively, you can take the Hiroden streetcar, which is slower (about 70 minutes) but scenic.

Step 2: Ferry to Miyajima

From Miyajimaguchi Pier, take a ferry across the bay:
• JR Ferry (covered by Japan Rail Pass): departs every 15 minutes
• Miyajima Matsudai Ferry: similar schedule and price (around ¥360 one-way)
The ferry ride takes about 10 minutes and offers your first view of the floating torii gate—especially impressive at high tide.

How Much Does It Cost to Visit?

🎫 Shrine Admission

Visiting the outer grounds of Itsukushima Shrine is free, but to enter the main halls and walk through the corridors, there is a small admission fee:

• Adults: ¥300
• High school students: ¥200
• Children: ¥100

🚢 Ferry to Miyajima

To reach the island, you’ll need to take a ferry from Miyajimaguchi Pier. There are two main options:

• JR Ferry (covered by Japan Rail Pass)
• Miyajima Matsudai Ferry Round-trip fare is about ¥360 one-way.

🚠 Mt. Misen Ropeway

If you plan to explore Mt. Misen, the ropeway is the easiest way up:
Round-trip fare: ¥2,000 for adults, ¥1,000 for children

Visitor Tips & Best Time to Go

🌅 Best Time to Visit

• Spring (late March – early April): Cherry blossoms around the shrine and Mt. Misen make for stunning views.
• Autumn (late October – early November): Maple trees in Momijidani Park turn brilliant red and orange.
• Early morning or sunset: These times offer fewer crowds and the best light for photos—especially when the torii gate reflects on the water.

🌊 Check the Tides

The shrine’s famous “floating” effect depends on the tide. At high tide, the torii gate appears to float on the sea. At low tide, you can walk out to its base. Check the tide schedule in advance for your preferred experience.

🦌 Be Deer-Smart

Miyajima’s deer are friendly—but curious! They may try to nibble on paper, bags, or even maps. Feeding them is not allowed, so keep your belongings secure.

Visitor Info

📍 Location

Itsukushima Shrine is located on Miyajima Island, in Hiroshima Bay. The island is part of Hatsukaichi City, Hiroshima Prefecture.

🕒 Shrine Hours

• Opening: 6:30 AM (varies slightly by season)
• Closing: Around 5:00 PM
• Note: Opening hours may be extended during festivals or peak seasons.

💴 Admission

• Main shrine area: ¥300 (adults), ¥200 (students), ¥100 (children)
• Free access to the outer shrine grounds and paths

📅 Seasonal Closures

• Open year-round
• May close partially during severe weather or restoration work

🌐 Languages

• English signs available throughout the island
• Audio guides or multilingual pamphlets often provided at the shrine

What Happened on August 6, 1945?

At 8:15 AM on August 6, 1945, the United States dropped an atomic bomb—nicknamed “Little Boy”—over Hiroshima. The bomb exploded approximately 600 meters above the city, instantly leveling buildings, igniting fires, and causing widespread devastation.

By the end of 1945, it’s estimated that around 140,000 people had died as a result of the blast, heat, and radiation. Many victims were civilians—children walking to school, workers starting their day, entire families going about their lives. The bombing left deep physical and emotional scars. Yet Hiroshima’s recovery has become a global symbol of peace and resilience.

Learn more in our dedicated articles:
• Atomic Bomb Dome – The iconic structure that survived
• Peace Memorial Museum – Personal stories and history
• Peace Memorial Park – Monuments and meaning

Is It Safe to Visit Hiroshima Now?

Yes—Hiroshima is completely safe to visit. In fact, it’s one of the most welcoming and vibrant cities in Japan today. Radiation levels returned to normal background levels within a year after the bombing. Because the atomic explosion occurred in the air (about 600 meters above ground), most of the radioactive material dispersed into the atmosphere rather than contaminating the ground.

Today, Hiroshima is home to parks, universities, festivals, and a strong local community. You’ll find a modern, clean city with excellent public transportation and plenty of English-friendly services for travelers. Visiting Hiroshima is not only safe—it’s an essential experience for those wanting to understand Japan’s past and how the city has built a peaceful future.

Things to Do in Hiroshima

How to Get There

Hiroshima City is located in western Japan, in Hiroshima Prefecture, part of the Chugoku region.

• From Tokyo: About 4–5 hours by Shinkansen (bullet train)
• From Osaka: 90 minutes by Shinkansen
• From Kyoto: 1 hour 40 minutes by Shinkansen
• Hiroshima has its own airport with domestic and international flights

Q&A – Hiroshima Travel Tips

Visitor Info – Hiroshima

Getting Around

• Hiroshima Electric Railway (Hiroden) streetcars connect major tourist spots
• IC cards like ICOCA and Suica are accepted
• Buses and taxis are also available, but streetcars are the most iconic

Accommodations

• Plenty of hotel options near Hiroshima Station or the Peace Memorial Park area
• From budget-friendly to modern city hotels with river views

Languages & Accessibility

• Major museums and transport hubs have English signs
• Peace Memorial Museum offers multilingual audio guides
• Many locations are wheelchair-friendly

What Is the Atomic Bomb Dome?

Originally constructed in 1915, the building now known as the Atomic Bomb Dome was once the Hiroshima Prefectural Industrial Promotion Hall. Designed by Czech architect Jan Letzel, it stood as a symbol of Hiroshima’s modernity—hosting exhibitions, trade events, and government offices. That all changed on August 6, 1945, when the first atomic bomb used in warfare exploded almost directly overhead. Nearly everything within a two-kilometer radius was reduced to ashes, but this building’s steel frame and partial outer walls remained upright.

In the years that followed, locals debated whether to preserve the ruin or remove it. Ultimately, the decision was made to leave it standing—not as a reminder of war, but as a symbol of peace. It was officially named a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1996, recognized as a monument to human tragedy and hope.

Today, the Dome is the centerpiece of the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park, serving as a place for reflection and remembrance.

Why Did the Dome Survive the Atomic Bomb?

The atomic bomb detonated about 160 meters southeast of the building—almost directly overhead. Because of this near-vertical blast, the central dome structure withstood the downward force, while buildings farther away were flattened by the lateral shockwave and fire.
Several factors contributed to its survival:
• Reinforced European-style design with thick walls and steel framework
• Proximity to the hypocenter, which oddly shielded the structure from side-blast destruction
• Partial interior collapse, but enough framework remained to prevent total ruin

It became one of the few structures left standing near the epicenter, and its skeletal form has remained almost untouched since 1945. The survival of the Dome was so unique that it quickly became a symbol—first of tragedy, and later of peace and memory.

Is the Hiroshima Dome Still Radioactive?

It’s a common question for first-time visitors—and the short answer is: no, it’s not. Radiation levels in Hiroshima returned to normal background levels within a year of the bombing. This is because the atomic bomb exploded about 600 meters above the city, dispersing radioactive material into the upper atmosphere rather than contaminating the ground directly.

Today, the area around the Atomic Bomb Dome is completely safe. Locals walk their dogs here. Children play in the nearby Peace Park. School groups, tourists, and even newlyweds in kimono stroll past the Dome every day.

Is the Hiroshima Crater Still There?

Despite the immense destruction caused by the atomic bomb, there is no visible crater in Hiroshima today—or even in the days immediately following the blast. That’s because the bomb exploded about 600 meters above the ground, designed as an airburst to maximize damage across a wide area. The shockwave and intense heat flattened buildings and ignited fires across the city, but it did not create a crater in the ground like a ground-impact bomb would.

Today, the area around the hypocenter is fully rebuilt. The city has grown into a vibrant and modern community, with almost no physical traces of the crater-like destruction—only the Dome remains as a silent witness.

Around the Atomic Bomb Dome

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You can walk the entire area in 1 to 2 hours, depending on how deeply you explore the museum. Many visitors choose to visit in the morning or late afternoon for a quieter, more reflective experience.
If you’re visiting Hiroshima for the first time, consider a guided tour that includes both the Peace Park and Miyajima Island—especially if you want cultural insights, translation support, and historical background explained clearly.

Access – How to Get to the Atomic Bomb Dome

Atomic Bomb Dome is located in Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park, along the Motoyasu River in central Hiroshima.
• From Hiroshima Station, take tram Line 2 or 6 to Genbaku Dome-mae stop (about 20 minutes)
• The Dome is a 5-minute walk from the tram stop
• The site is located in central Hiroshima, along the Motoyasu River, and is easy to reach on foot

Visitor Info

Opening Hours & Admission

• Atomic Bomb Dome: Open-air site, viewable 24 hours
• Peace Memorial Museum: 8:30 AM – 6:00 PM (until 7:00 PM in summer)
• Closed: December 30–31
• Admission (Museum): ¥200 (adults), ¥100 (students)

Language Support

• English signage throughout the park
• Museum offers multilingual audio guides
• Tours with English-speaking guides are also available

Why Is Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park Famous?

Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park is world-renowned as a space dedicated to remembrance and peace. It was built directly on the hypocenter of the atomic bombing that destroyed Hiroshima on August 6, 1945, and has since become a global symbol of the hope for a world free from nuclear weapons.
Designed by architect Kenzo Tange, the park was completed in 1954 and deliberately kept free of commercial development. Instead, it features memorials, trees, and quiet paths—a space to grieve, reflect, and learn.
Key events like the annual Peace Memorial Ceremony on August 6th, and school trips from all over Japan and abroad, highlight the park’s role in educating future generations. It’s not just a tourist destination—it’s a place of pilgrimage for peace.

Is the Hiroshima Peace Museum Worth Visiting?

Yes—absolutely. The Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum is widely regarded as one of the most powerful and important museums in Japan. Its exhibitions cover the history leading up to the bombing, the human cost of the atomic bomb, and Hiroshima’s recovery. What makes it unforgettable are the personal stories—photos, burned clothing, watches stopped at 8:15, and handwritten notes left behind by victims.

Multilingual audio guides are available, and the exhibits are designed to be informative without being graphic. While emotionally intense, the museum is not meant to shock—it’s meant to educate, to inspire reflection, and to help ensure history is never repeated.

Do You Need Tickets for the Park?

No tickets are required to enter Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park—the park grounds are completely free and open to the public, 24 hours a day. You can walk freely around the Atomic Bomb Dome, Cenotaph, Peace Flame, and various monuments without any charge.
However, admission is required for the Peace Memorial Museum:

• Adults: ¥200
• High school students and younger: ¥100
• Children under 6: Free Multilingual audio guides are available for a small additional fee.

If you’re looking to go deeper, guided walking tours of the park are available and highly recommended. These tours often include context, translation, and personal stories that make the visit more meaningful.

Can You Still See the Shadows of People in Hiroshima?

What to See Inside the Peace Park

Access – Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park

Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park is located in the heart of Hiroshima City, between the Ōta and Motoyasu Rivers.

How to Get There

From Hiroshima Station, take tram Line 2 or 6 bound for Miyajima-guchi or Eba.
→Get off at Genbaku Dome-mae stop.
→The north entrance of the park is right in front of you. (The ride takes about 20 minutes.)

Visitor Info – Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park

Location

Central Hiroshima, near the Atomic Bomb Dome, surrounded by rivers and easily accessible on foot from most city attractions.

Opening Hours & Admission

Peace Park Grounds
• Open 24/7
• Free to enter

Peace Memorial Museum
• Hours: 8:30 AM – 6:00 PM (open until 7:00 PM in summer)
• Closed: December 30–31
• Admission:
　• ¥200 (adults)
　• ¥100 (students)
　• Free for children under 6

Languages & Accessibility

• English signage available throughout the park
• Multilingual audio guides at the museum
• Wheelchair-accessible paths and elevators in all major facilities

What is Gunkanjima?

Gunkanjima, or Hashima Island, is a small, abandoned island off the coast of Nagasaki. From a distance, it looks like a battleship—so people started calling it “Gunkanjima,” which means “Battleship Island” in Japanese.

The island has a powerful history. It once had a busy coal mine run by Mitsubishi. In the 1950s, over 5,000 people lived there, making it the most crowded place in the world. The island was packed with tall apartment buildings, schools, shops, and even a hospital—all built from concrete and surrounded by a high seawall. But when Japan stopped using coal, the mine closed. In 1974, everyone left. The buildings were left behind, and the island became completely empty.

In 2015, Gunkanjima became a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its role in Japan’s industrial revolution.
Today, you can visit the island by guided boat tour. Some tours even let you land and walk on the island. If you want a deeper and safer experience, we highly recommend joining one of our company’s guided tours.

Why Was Gunkanjima Abandoned?

Why Was Gunkanjima AbanHashima Island was once a symbol of prosperity. In the mid-20th century, thousands of people lived and worked here, extracting undersea coal to power Japan’s rapid industrial growth. But by the 1970s, the energy landscape had shifted—from coal to oil. The Mitsubishi Mining Company shut down operations in 1974, and within weeks, the island’s entire population left. From the world’s most crowded island to a ghost town—almost overnight.
Walking through the ruins today feels surreal. The school gym still has its faded scoreboard. Empty stairwells echo with the sound of waves. Nature is slowly reclaiming the concrete skeletons of a once-bustling city.

Can You Visit Gunkanjima Today?

Yes—but only by joining an official guided tour departing from Nagasaki Port. Because of the island’s fragile condition, individual access is not allowed, and even tours depend on weather and sea conditions. Most boat tours include:
・A cruise around the island for panoramic views
・Landing on a designated safe walkway (weather permitting)
・Live commentary about the island’s history and life there
Several local operators offer tours, with departures from Tokiwa Terminal or Mochidome Pier. Tours typically last about 2.5 to 3 hours in total.

Why Is Hashima Island Considered Scary?

The nickname “ghost island” isn’t just for show. Hashima’s abandoned concrete structures—cracked walls, empty windows, rusted balconies—create a haunting atmosphere. Nature is reclaiming the space, but slowly. There’s no electricity, no residents, and almost complete silence. For many visitors, it’s not horror, but a strange mix of awe and sadness.

The idea that thousands of people once lived, worked, and raised families here—now gone—adds a weight that’s hard to shake. Some locals whisper ghost stories, and the island has appeared in horror-themed media. But the true “scariness” of Gunkanjima lies in its silence, its shadows—and its memory of Japan’s rapid rise and sudden abandonment.

Access – How to Get to Gunkanjima

Gunkanjima (Hashima Island) lies about 4 kilometers off the coast of Nagasaki, in the East China Sea.
To visit the island, you’ll need to join an official guided boat tour departing from Nagasaki Port.
Departure Terminals:

• Tokiwa Terminal (常盤ターミナル)
• Mochidome Terminal (元船桟橋)

Q&A – Gunkanjima (Hashima Island)

Visitor Info – Gunkanjima (Hashima Island)

• Landing is weather-dependent. If the sea is too rough, tours may only circle the island without landing.
• Helmets and life jackets are mandatory when walking on the island.
• Photography is allowed in designated areas.
• Drone use is strictly prohibited.
• Walking paths are narrow and uneven—closed shoes are highly recommended.