Experience / Training / Vehicle Spots in Japan

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Category

Travel / Tourism

Experience / Training / Vehicle

Hiroshima Dentestu Train

4.0

922 Reviews

Travel / Tourism

Hiroshima, Hiroshima Prefecture

This train is a convenient train means of transportation in the city center, and has the familiar nickname of “Hiroden”. Set tickets for travel to Miyajima with Miyajima Matsudai ferry are also available.

Lot of routes and different types of trams on this system. Little confusing at first. Trams are kept clean and up to date.
Mt. Omuro Lift

4.0

414 Reviews

Travel / Tourism

Shizuoka Pref. Itoushi Ike 672-2

Covered by greenery year round, 580 meter tall Mt. Omuro resembles an overturned Japanese bowl. The mountain serves as a symbol of the city of Ito City, Shizuoka Prefecture. The Mt. Omuro Lift connects the foot of the mountain and its top, and riders can enjoy a spectacular view during the approximate six minute ride. Note that climbing the mountain on foot is prohibited. The top of the mountain is a 300 meter diameter extinct volcanic crater. Walkers along the Ohachi-meguri trail, which circles the crater, can see the Akaishi Mountains, Mt. Fuji, and the Seven Islands of Izu. Each year on the second Sunday in February, a breathtaking controlled burn is conducted on the mountain. On New Year’s Day, many visitors come to watch the sunrise from the top of the mountain, and the lift begins operation from 5:40 am on the day.

This place has been my favorite for a while in the Izu area. First, shape of the mountain is good. Though it is not big, perfectly bulges from the ground. Second, you can walk around the rim in...
Botchan Train

4.0

795 Reviews

Travel / Tourism

Matsuyama-shi Ehime Prefecture

Based on the steam locomotive that ran for 67 years since the opening of Iyotetsu Railway, this diesel engine train was restored in October of 2001. It is often called the “Botchan train”, as one of the characters in Natsume Soseki’s famous novel “Botchan” rode the old steam locomotives. You can board at the following stops: Dogo Onsen, Okaido, Matsuyama City Station, JR Matsuyama Station, Komachi Station.

Using Matsuyama as a base for a 5-day visit to Shikoku, I set aside my final day for seeing the sights of Matsuyama. Armed with a 1-day tram ticket, I worked my from Matsuyama City Station across...
Yokohama Sea Bass

4.5

715 Reviews

Travel / Tourism

Kanagawa Pref. Yokohamashi Kanagawa-ku Kinkouchou 1-10 Yokohama bay quarter 2F

This is a sea transportation service connecting the main Yokohama tourism sites, which are the East exit of the Yokohama Station, the Pukari Sanbashi of Minatomirai 21, the Pier Akarenga and the Yamashita Park. Although there is some layover time between the Yokohama Station - Akarenga, and the Yamashita Park - Minatomirai 21 routes, but all other sites can be visited without delays. The routes vary in length from five minutes to 20 minutes. The sight from the wide windows set low to the sea allow for easy viewing. Passengers may also enjoy a fuller cruise experience from the aft deck. Passengers enjoy taking photos at various sites using the different scenes as a backdrop. The 60-minute night illumination cruise on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays is highly recommended.

great boat rides around the bay at a fair price for the area. lots of great views form the boat, see the city from the sea. great staff
Kurobe Gorge – Electric Trolley

4.5

419 Reviews

Travel / Tourism

Toyama Pref. Kurobeshi Kurobekyoukokuguchi 11

The Kurobe Gorge electric trolley is a train running through the Kurobe Dam—selected as one of Japan’s Top 3 Gorges and Top 100 Hidden Locales—that lets you fully enjoy Kurobe Gorge according to your schedule and goals. There are three different passenger trains which draw your attention to sites along the way with announcements. They run from mid-April to November 30. Approximately 20 minutes by car via Kurobe Interchange on the Kan-Etsu/Joshin-Etsu/Hokuriku Expressway.

Take this small Torokko Electric Train from Kurobe Kyokuku (Unazuki Station), which is located within a 5-minute walk from JR Unazuki Onsen Station and enjoy sitting either in the open-air cars or...
Hakkoda Ropeway

4.0

312 Reviews

Travel / Tourism

Aomori Pref. Aomorishi Arakawa Kansuizawa 1-12

This is a ropeway connecting Sanroku Station and Sanchou Kouen Station, with a one-way trip taking 10 minutes. From the gondola window and Sanchou Kouen Station one can see the magnificent Hakkouda mountain range in the colors of all four seasons, past Aomori City and out to Mustu Bay. In the area there is a walking course rich with ponds and alpine plants, popular with visitors who come to watch the leaves changing color in autumn. In winter it is favored as a ski resort.

I took the ropeway up the mountain at the beginning of March, and the snow monsters were still very monster-like (completely covered in snow), even though the rest of the prefecture is lacking in...
Hozu-gawa River Boat Ride

4.5

382 Reviews

Travel / Tourism

Kyoto Kameokashi Hoduchou Shimonakajima 2

This thrilling riverboat ride travels approximately 16 kilometers from Kameoka in Tamba to scenic Arashiyama in Kyoto over a period of about two hours. The boat course was originally used as a means to transport materials down the Hozu River to Kyoto and Osaka. The natural and seasonal beauty of the gorge through which the river travels, however, was so great that this section of the river was turned into a boat ride course for tourists in 1895. Veteran boatman use pole, rudder, and oar to guide the vessel, impressively squeezing through rocky stretches. The boat continues to operate even on rainy days, when a tent is erected for the comfort of riders.

Nice 2 hour boat ride. There are at least 20 people on the boat and in some areas the current is a bit fast but it is safe. The scenery is amazing. While we went during late Oct, leaves have not...
Gero Onsen Gassho-Mura

4.0

361 Reviews

Travel / Tourism

Gifu Pref. Geroshi Mori 2369

Gero Onsen Gassho-Mura is an outdoor museum featuring a collection of traditional gassho-style thatched farmhouses that have been moved to the site from areas such as Shirakawa-go. There is also the Kage-e Geki Shirasagi-za shadow puppet theatre, displays about traditional folk customs, and workshops where visitors can try their hand at craft activities, etc.; at Gero Onsen Gassho-Mura, visitors can get a real feel for how people used to live in the Hida region. Visitors can also enjoy the “Gassho no Ashiyu” footbath, which uses water from the Gero Onsen hot springs (one of the top three ranked hot springs systems in Japan).

When you get inside, you can see the familiar thatched roof. You can watch the introduction of Hezhang Village. In addition to the facilities of the slide, there are also art performances. Going...
Daisetsuzan Sounkyo-Kurodake Ropeway

4.0

345 Reviews

Travel / Tourism

Hokkaido Kamikawa-gun Kamikawacho Sounkyo

"This ropeway joining the Sounkyo Hot Spring with Mt. Kurodake sits as the front entrance to Daisetsuzan National Park. The large-scale gondola fits 101 people, and takes you up to the fifth station of Mt. Kurodake. If you continue on by taking the lift, you can get up to the seventh station at an elevation of 1520 meters. It is used by both casual tourists, and mountain climbers headed for the peak. It takes seven minutes one-way, and comes at 20-minute intervals. On days with good weather, you can get above the ""cloud sea"" and see the Mt. Daisetsuzan Mountain Range."

Being mid-October the snow had started to fall and the top of the ropeway had the first snowfall covering the mountains of the range. Its a beautiful place with really stunning views. Cant wait...
Matsushima Shimameguri Kankosen cruises

4.0

395 Reviews

Travel / Tourism

Miyagi Pref. Miyagigunmatsushimamachi Matsushima Chounai 85

Matsushima Shimameguri Kankosen cruises offer scheduled trips on large ships, setting out from the Matsushima Coast, for 50-minute cruises in which passengers can enjoy viewing the Matsushima Islands, which have traditionally been ranked as one of the “Three Views of Japan.” For an additional charge, passengers can relax and enjoy the views from the luxury seats on the ship’s upper deck. Other island cruises using medium-sized and small-boats (for groups of at least 15 passengers and at least 12 passengers respectively) are also available; because these boats have a shallower draught than the larger Nio-maru, they are able to follow different routes, giving passengers a closer look at the Matsushima Islands.

Many islands, small to large, in various shapes, some with caves, are there. In addition, there are many gulls and black-tailed gulls (in Japan black-tailed gull is called Umineko – sea cat – as its...
Kobe Nunobiki Herb Gardens & Ropeway

4.5

222 Reviews

Travel / Tourism

Hyogo Pref. Koubeshi Chuou-ku Kitanochou 1-4-3

This is Japan's largest herb gardens which are located in Kobe City. This vast site holds about 75,000 herbs and seasonal flowers of about 200 varieties which bloom in profusion. There is a medieval times old fortress style rest house, a rose garden with about 60 varieties of roses planted, a garden terrace and a garden for all four seasons, etc. In addition, there are a restaurant where you can taste buffet-style herb cuisine and an open cafe. You can also enjoy illuminations along with night views during evening opening hours.

At any time of year, but especially from late spring through autumn (I would imagine; I visited in early December), the Nunobiki Herb Gardens and Ropeway are really worth a visit -more so, perhaps...
Kobe Municipal Rokkosan Pasture

4.0

238 Reviews

Travel / Tourism

Hyogo Pref. Koubeshi Nada-ku Rokkousanchou Nakaichiriyama 1-1

A tourism-oriented farm located on Mt. Rokko in Kobe’s Nada Ward designed to resemble an old fashioned European farm situated amidst the Alps. Visitors can interact with sheep, goats, miniature pigs, milk cows, and horses as well as feed them. The farm’s exciting sheep dog show and tethered pony rides are particularly popular with children. Visitors can also watch Kobe cheese being made in the Rokkosan QBB Cheese Museum as well as try making ice cream and butter. Visitors are sure to have a fulfilling and refreshing time at this remarkable farm surrounded by natural beauty.

We spent half a day at this farm where we met sheeps, pigs, horses and cows. The sheets were left to roam around freely which is nice and makes a lovely scene. It was a cool comfortable day with the...
Abashiri Drift Ice Sightseeing & Icebreaker Ship Aurora and Aurora 2

4.5

252 Reviews

Travel / Tourism

Hokkaido Abashirishi Minamisanjouhigashi 4-5-1 Road Station Ice Rink Road Abashiri

The icebreaking ship Aurora/Aurora 2 are large sightseeing vessels that in seasonal service break the drift ice of Okhotsk. In addition to enjoying the sound and impact of breaking ice from the observation deck, you might also be able to catch sight of wild animals such as seals if you are lucky. You can also watch and relax from the first or second floor where there is good heating. The ships’ schedule is decided depending on the drift ice so it is recommended that you check the official site before you go. Shuttle buses are available from Memanbetsu Airport and JR Abashiri Station.

Took this trip when the ice flows were prevalent in February. We fully expected to see an intriguing panorama of ice, but what surprised us most was just how many bird species there were out on the...
Zao Ropeway

4.0

229 Reviews

Travel / Tourism

Yamagata Pref. Yamagatashi Zaouonsen 229-3

This is a ropeway operating at Zao Onsen, Yamagata City, Yamagata Prefecture, running from Zao Sanroku Station in Zao Onsen town to Juhyo-Kogen Station, and from Juhyo-Kogen Station to Jizo Sanchou Station in Zao Jizoson. Winter season demand is high from skiers who want transport and visitors to the Juyo Light Up Event, and in summer it is used by many mountain climbers. By using a gondola named “Funitel” one can have a pleasant ride without any harsh humps or bumps. In all four seasons, from autumn leaves to frost-covered trees to new spring ones, a visitor can enjoy all of the splendid nature Zao has to offer.

Our experience was fun and smooth. The ticket is a bit expensive for a round way trip but the view was wonderful and it’s a good way to get to the top and access the crater lake. The Ropeway is very...
Nokogiriyama Ropeway

4.0

169 Reviews

Travel / Tourism

Chiba Pref. Futtsushi Kanaya 4052-1

This ropeway connects Sanroku Station of Futtsu City’s Kanaya with Sancho Station on top of Mt. Nokogiri. It is a four-minute ride, with 15-minute waits between cars, and it operates year-round (though it is closed for inspection for a part of January every year.) You can enjoy a 360-degree panoramic view of the area around Mt. Nokogiri from the car. Also, Mt. Nokogiri was selected as one of “Kanto’s Top 100 Fuji Views.” If you make use of the early morning service on New Year’s Day, you can enjoy a great view of the “Red Fuji” sunrise.

With 500 yen it saves you from puffing up the hill. Nice views on the ropeway car. Once you get off at the hill top, head to the observatory above the station for a small souvenir counter and a small...
Kita Yatsugatake Ropeway

4.0

249 Reviews

Travel / Tourism

Nagano Pref. Chinoshi Kitayama 4035-2541

This large ropeway, able to carry 100 people, is located at the northern tip of the Yatsugatake mountain range and connects Mt. Kita Yokodake and Mt. Shimagare. It takes about seven minutes to reach Yokodake-Tsuboniwa summit station with an altitude of 2237 meters from the station at the base of the mountain with an altitude of 1771 meters. The magnificent view of the mountains seen from the gondola window is spectacular, and is especially popular among mountaineers.

My daughter enjoyed this a lot! It was a great hike for us. It’s worth a trip! The rope way runs like every 20 minutes. We came early so less people and not so crowded. This is good for a family...
Tanigawadake Ropeway

4.0

192 Reviews

Travel / Tourism

Gunma prefecture Tone-gun Minakami-machi Yuzonso Yu Fukayama National Forest Tanigawa-dake ropeway

This ropeway spanning Tanigawadake at the border of Gunma Prefecture and Niigata Prefecture connects the 746-meter altitude Doaiguchi Station with the Tenjindaira Station located at an altitude of 1,319 meters. There is also an observatory, and visitors can use a lift to reach Tenjin Toge Pass which is the start of a hiking route. The trekking course from Tenjin Toge follows the mountain ridge and takes about two and a half hours, and is a veritable treasure house for plants such as　Hosobahinayukiso (a kind of Leontopodium Fairriei). The large 360-degree panoramic view from the top of the mountain affords spectacular vistas of the surrounding mountains, and is a very popular hiking course that is suitable even beginners.

I have mild height phobia so it’s a thrill ride for me. Beautiful views that change as you go higher. I went in summer so you can imagine how much more beautiful in autumn! Not cheap , 2000+¥. The...
Daisetsuzan Asahidake Ropeway

4.5

236 Reviews

Travel / Tourism

Hokkaido Kamikawa-gun Higashi-kawacho Asahidake Onsen

This ropeway connects Asahidake Onsen (1,100 meters above sea level) to the Fifth Station at 1,600 meters above sea level. It is located at the foot of Asahidake, the highest peak in Hokkaido. Visitors can enjoy a massive 360-degree panorama over the course of this ten-minute air walk. The ropeway is one of the main sightseeing spots in Asahidake, where visitors can enjoy views of the changing seasons, such as the white skunk cabbage and the melting snow as it flows towards the wetlands in the spring, and see the alpine plants in full bloom on the summit of the mountain in the summer. Of all of the views the ropeway has to offer, the most popular is the scenic views reminiscent of spilled paint covering the mountain when the leaves turn red in the autumn. And in the winter, natural phenomena such as diamond dust and sun pillar may occur, which draw many cameramen who come to capture these moments.

The ropeway is a convenient way to get to the base of Mount Asahidake. You can then walk a loop to the fumeroles and back. The views are lovely on the trip up and down. Park at the information...
Tombori River Cruise

4.0

182 Reviews

Travel / Tourism

Osaka Osakashi Chuou-ku Souemonchou 7-13 Taehwaemon Bridge Pier

Tonbori River Cruise is a sightseeing cruise boat which tours the Dotonbori River, one of the famous attractions in Osaka. It departs from Tazaemonbashi Wharf in front of the Don Quijote Dotonbori branch and goes under nine bridges while you see the sights of the Minami area of Osaka. During the tour, there are many good places for commemorative photos such as a gigantic octopus sign as well as a Glico man sign. The light-hearted talk by the guide is also one of the enjoyments. As the short trip requires only about 20 minutes, you can easily board when you have time to spare while sightseeing or on a date. The closest station is Namba Station.

A must do for first time visitors. This canal cruise will take you up and down the path in about 30 minutes. We did not purchase tickets in advance. We were able to get on the boat right away at...
Horikawa Pleasure Boat

4.5

316 Reviews

Travel / Tourism

Shimane Pref. Matsueshi Kurodachou 507-1

A pleasure cruise which goes on a 50 minute tour of the moat surrounding the National Treasure-designated Matsue Castle in Matsue City, Shimane Prefecture. The cruise’s coarse is dotted with famous and elegant castle town sights such as Shiomi Nawate-dori Street and the Former Samurai District. The water birds, flowering plants growing by the water, and other highly seasonal scenery is also a must-see. The cruise boat itself is eight meters long, two meters wide, and covered with a small roof; a toasty kotatsu (table with a blanket and heater underneath) is provided in winter. The Hori River the boat travels is spanned by 17 bridges, and when the boat travels under particularly low bridges, the roof must be lowered to pass.

The experience of having to duck down so that the roof can be lowered was fun. We had the additional pleasure of having two volunteer guides from the Matsue Goodwill Guide Group to assist us in...