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Hokkaido's Sweet Secrets: 5 Must-Try ISHIYA Sweets According to Our Expert

Sapporo / Chitose Gift Shops

ISHIYA's 'Shiroi Koibito' cookies are by far one of the most popular souvenirs one could find in Hokkaido. But despite being famous for Shiroi Koibito, ISHIYA boasts several other excellent confections, too! In this article, travel creator Nobuka Kawashima, an expert in Hokkaido travel information, compares various ISHIYA sweets to curate a list of her top 5 recommendations. In addition to the classic Shiroi Koibito, she highlights several other irresistible souvenir sweets you won't want to overlook!

8 Iconic Tokyo Locations That Will Make Your Instagram Shine

Tokyo Station Other Sightseeing

It will surprise no one when we declare that Japan is one of the topmost photogenic destinations on earth. No matter where you are in the land of the rising sun, you're merely a few steps away from glorious sights and scenes that demand to be photographed. While the entire country is a shutterbug's favorite playground, Tokyo especially has an allure that draws Insta-addicts in droves throughout the year. This curated list of eight iconic spots in Tokyo was created through thorough research and exploration. We stopped by the usual sites that tend to be on the radar of a photographer's lens but also went further to uncover hidden corners—remote islands, rooftop terraces, and shadowed alleyways illuminated by red lanterns—to bring you a collection that reflects the city's one-of-a-kind appeal. Explore the stories behind these locations, with insights from the photographers who’ve captured them.

Become a True Gundam Pilot - Stepping into the P.O.D. at a Tokyo Arcade! (Video)

Arcades

Japan and robots go together like a hotdog and mustard. One of the nation’s most famous robot exports is known worldwide simply as “Gundam.” What started out as an anime has become a huge franchise with its own games, movies, and even a life-sized statue in Tokyo’s Odaiba. What many people don’t know, however, is that there is a way to pilot your very own Gundam robot!

The Best Way to Visit Jozankei and Lake Toya from Sapporo: A Private Car Day Trip for Families and Seniors

Sapporo / Chitose Rivers, Lakes & Canyons

May and June are the seasons I most highly recommend for a spring trip to Hokkaido. In Sapporo, lilacs come into bloom, and if you venture out into the suburbs, you can also enjoy moss phlox, tulips, and fresh green scenery. The temperatures are also relatively comfortable, making it an ideal season for family trips and travel with senior companions. That said, one thing that can unexpectedly become a burden during a Hokkaido trip at this time of year is transportation. Rental cars can easily become unavailable depending on the season, and quite a few people feel uneasy about driving a right-hand-drive car on the left side of the road. In addition, after the snow melts, road conditions can still be difficult in some places, and in unfamiliar surroundings, that alone can make the trip more tiring. That is why I recommend choosing a private chartered car. Its great appeal is that it reduces the stress of getting around while allowing you to make full use of your limited travel time for sightseeing, which often makes it one of the best investments for a comfortable trip. In this article, I, a Hokkaido-based travel writer, will introduce the access pitfalls I have actually experienced while traveling in Hokkaido, the benefits you can gain from a travel plan using a chartered car, and a recommended day-trip model course from Sapporo by chartered car. (This article may contain affiliate links or coupons. All featured facilities, stores, and products are selected based on our editorial standards)

Discover the Railway Museum in Omiya, Saitama: Real Trains, Sims, and Fun for All Ages - Just a Day Trip from Tokyo!

Saitama Suburbs History Museums

About 50 minutes from Tokyo, you'll find the Railway Museum in Omiya, Saitama. It's a dream destination for hardcore train fans, but it's also the perfect spot for families to spend a whole day having fun together. From awe-inspiring full-size train displays and fascinating hands-on science exhibits to nostalgic retro train cars and driving simulators you can try yourself, this museum has something to keep everyone entertained. Join LIVE JAPAN as we take you through the must-see highlights, unique restaurants, and exclusive souvenirs waiting for you at the Railway Museum! (Main image: Timothy Sullivan/LIVE JAPAN)

Kyoto in One Day: 5 Proven Routes for Kimono Photos, Food & Transport Deals

Kyoto Station, To-ji Temple Other Sightseeing

For many travelers, Kyoto’s beauty feels timeless. Yet the way we explore this historic city continues to evolve. Kyoto is no longer just a sightseeing destination. It is actively working to balance high visitor numbers with everyday local life. Today, “efficiency” is not simply about saving time. It is the key to enjoying Kyoto’s quiet charm while avoiding the heaviest crowds. In the past, most itineraries relied heavily on the city’s dense bus network. But traffic congestion and long queues often disrupted even the best-laid plans. The new Kyoto travel norm centers on two smart strategies: making full use of the Sightseeing Express Bus and prioritizing subway routes whenever possible. To improve the visitor experience, Kyoto City has introduced direct bus services connecting major attractions with fewer stops. With the right transportation plan, you can still uncover the refined, relaxed spirit of Japan’s ancient capital even on a busy day. (Main image: PIXTA) (This page contains affiliate links)

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