It looks just like a famous spot overseas! A beautiful Japanese view that looks just like ◯◯

[Hokkaido] Get lost in the world of "Anne of Green Gables" at "Canadian World"

Canadian World in Ashibetsu, Hokkaido, is a park that faithfully recreates the world of Anne of Green Gables. Published in 1908 by Canadian female author Lucy Montgomery, the timeless masterpiece Anne of Green Gables is a memorable work that depicts the young girl Anne growing up in the lush Canadian nature. Here, Green Gables (Anne's house) and Terrace Dufferin (the central streetscape) are built to blend in with the real nature, allowing you to experience the world of Anne.

It was established in 1990 because Ashibetsu and Charlottetown on Prince Edward Island, the setting for "Anne of Green Gables," have similar climates. It is said that the existence of Canadian World was also what led to the two cities becoming sister cities in 1993.

If you visit Canadian World, you should first visit Green Gables, where Anne lived. This Green Gables was built to the exact same blueprints as the one in Prince Edward Island, Canada, and when Green Gables on Prince Edward Island burned down, the blueprints from Canadian World were borrowed to rebuild it, so much so that Anne's world is reproduced so accurately.

Canadian World was built on the site of a former coal mine in the mountains, far from the city, so the surrounding nature remains untouched. Around the pond in the center of the park is the Terrasse Dufferin, reminiscent of a 19th century Canadian townscape. Taking a leisurely stroll while looking at the beautiful townscape is sure to make you forget the passage of time.

There are many other attractions in the park, such as Orwell School (Anne's school) and Anne's church. Why not take a novel in hand and get lost in Anne's world?

Canadian World

[Fukushima Prefecture] Japan's Lake Carezza "Goshikinuma" shines like a jewel

Goshikinuma, located on the north side of Mount Bandai, a famous mountain representing Fukushima Prefecture, is a spot that looks just like Lake Carezza, a World Heritage Site in the Italian Dolomites. Lake Carezza is famous for the scenery of the mountains reflected in the cobalt blue lake surface, and is also said to be "the most beautiful lake in Italy."

The eruption of Mount Bandai caused avalanches that dammed the river, forming hundreds of lakes and marshes in 1888. Goshikinuma is the collective name for numerous lakes and marshes, including Bishamon-numa, Akanuma, Midoronuma, Tatsu-numa, Benten-numa, Ruri-numa, Aonuma, and Yanaginuma, and is officially called the Goshikinuma Lakes and Marshes Group.

The Goshiki-numa Swamp was named after the variety of colors that can be seen in the lake, including emerald green, cobalt blue, turquoise blue, emerald blue, and pastel blue. The different colors are thought to be due to factors such as the weather, season, viewing angle, and volcanic substances contained in the water. The colors look different depending on when you visit, making it a fantastical experience that can only be enjoyed here.

There is a nature trail (trekking course) at Goshiki-numa, and you can see the main lakes in about 1 to 1.5 hours. There are relatively few ups and downs, so it is safe for beginners. The total length is about 4km, so it is a bit far to go round trip, so we recommend taking a local bus on the way back. At Bishamon-numa, the largest of the Goshiki-numa lakes, with a circumference of about 4km, you can also try rowing a boat. If you have time, we recommend giving this a try.

The best season to see a view like Lake Carezza in Italy is July to August. The direct sunlight of summer makes the color of the lake shine even more vividly, like a jewel. Goshiki-numa, a miraculous and magnificent view that never ceases to fascinate people, is one tourist destination that you should visit at least once.

Five-colored Lake

[Chiba Prefecture] Spectacular cliff views! Experience the thrill of Preikestolen at "Mt. Nokogiri"

"Preikestolen," which means "speaking platform" in Norwegian, is a rectangular slab jutting out into the fjord, and as its name suggests, it is one of Norway's most popular tourist destinations, overlooking the fjord. Many people from all over the world visit to see the magnificent view.

In Japan, you can experience a thrilling view similar to that of Preikestolen at Mount Nokogiri, which straddles the cities of Futtsu and Kyonan in Chiba Prefecture. The name comes from the fact that the shape of the ridge resembles the teeth of a saw.

To see this magnificent view, first head to the summit of Mt. Nokogiri. Mt. Nokogiri is about 329m above sea level, making it easy for beginners to climb, and another attractive feature is that you can easily reach the summit by car or ropeway. After reaching the summit, head up and down another 2,639 steps to the southern slope of Mt. Nokogiri... and you will see "Hell's Peek" in the grounds of Nihon-ji Temple, which is about the size of seven Tokyo Domes! It is a sheer cliff that looks just like Preikestolen.

Unlike Preikestolen, there is a fence, but this is the most terrifying spot where you can look down about 100m from the cliff. As the name Hell Peeks into Hell suggests, you will feel a sense of fear as if you are peering into hell, but the panoramic view of Tokyo Bay and the Boso Peninsula that spreads out beyond is spectacular. The view you can enjoy while feeling the pleasant breeze blowing up from the sea is breathtaking.

Mount Nokogiri

[Gunma] Lockheart Castle - Reminiscent of ancient castles in Britain and Europe

Surrounded by magnificent nature, Lockheart Castle is a theme park centered around a historic, authentic stone castle that was relocated and restored from Scotland, UK. The vast grounds also include gardens and a church, making you feel as if you have traveled back in time to medieval Europe.

At the main entrance to the castle, you can see the British flag and the Lockhart family coat of arms. The sandstone exterior walls are carved with intricate detailing, each piece being hammered into place, giving you a glimpse of the skill required to build them.

Once you step inside the castle, you will be amazed at how well it has been recreated, with marble staircases, giant bronze statues, rooms used by generations of owners of the mansion, and a library, giving the castle a unique European feel.

There are also many other valuable exhibition spaces, including exhibits that tell the history of the castle and a jewelry collection, that give a sense of the passage of time since it was built in 1829. Among them, the "World Santa Museum" by the late actor Masahiko Tsugawa, who contributed to the relocation of the castle and is also the honorary lord of Lockheart Castle, is well worth seeing.

In addition to the main castle, there are many other attractions where you can experience British culture within the vast grounds of about 100,000 square meters. For example, there is the European-style labyrinth garden, Williams Garden. In this green space, you can enjoy seasonal flowers and the "David Austin English Rose," known as the "ultimate rose."

The stone chapel, which was revived after about 200 years, has a warm atmosphere of wood and stained glass, and has an atmosphere like a building from a fairy tale. The pipe organ and antique-style triangular roof are also appealing. This chapel is actually available for use, and is also popular as a place to hold weddings.

There is a restaurant and an open-air cafe on the premises, so you can spend a relaxing time there. There is also a "princess experience" service where you can rent an elegant dress that matches the atmosphere of the castle and enjoy a professional photo shoot. If you pretend to be a princess without being shy, you will be able to enjoy this place even more.

Lockheart Castle

[Hyogo] A mystical and spectacular view of the sea of clouds! Japan's Machu Picchu, "Takeda Castle Ruins"

Takeda Castle Ruins, also known as the "Castle in the Sky," is a mountain castle built on Kojoyama, 353.7 meters above sea level. As a ruin from the Warring States period that remains on the mountaintop, it has been designated as an Important Cultural Property (Historic Site) by the nation.

This area is known for the thick fog that sometimes occurs on clear mornings from autumn to winter, making the castle look as if it is floating in a sea of clouds. The fantastic sight of the castle appearing through the gaps in the clouds has earned it a reputation as being "just like Machu Picchu (the ruins of the Inca Empire)," and it now attracts many fans from both within Japan and overseas.

One of the best parts of mountain scenery is being able to enjoy the scenery of each season, but the most popular seasons are autumn and winter, when you can see the sea of clouds. To get a glimpse of the view, people don't mind climbing the castle early in the morning in the bitter cold. Every year, people of all ages, both men and women, visit the mountain.

There are two main ways to view the sea of clouds: from the outside or from the inside. If you want to see the whole view of Takeda Castle ruins, we recommend climbing up to Tateunkyo Gorge on Mt. Asago, opposite the castle ruins, and looking at it from the outside. You can see a fantastical view, as if the castle is floating in a sea of pure white clouds.

If you want to experience the sensation of being enveloped in the sea of clouds along with the castle, climb up to the ruins of Takeda Castle itself. The pure white sea of clouds spreading out below the castle tower is truly spectacular. You'll get the illusion that you're standing on a flying island.

It takes about 40 minutes on foot to reach the viewing spots in either case, but the spectacular views are well worth the effort. Breathe in the fresh mountain air and refresh your mind and body as you look at the magnificent views.

The sea of clouds depends on the season, time, and weather, so it's all down to luck whether you can see it or not. But even if you can't see the sea of clouds, the Takeda Castle ruins, which change beautifully with the seasons, are well worth seeing in themselves. It's definitely worth a visit.

Takeda Castle Ruins

[Kagawa] The spectacular view of Chichibugahama Beach, reflected in the sky like the Uyuni Salt Flats

Chichibugahama Beach in Mitoyo City, Kagawa Prefecture, is a calm beach with a total length of about 1 km. Although it is a simple local beach, it has been making waves on social media, with people saying, "You can take miraculous shots just like at the Uyuni Salt Flats (in Bolivia)!"

The calm water reflects the sky, creating a mysterious, vertically symmetrical scene that is so romantic it is difficult to put into words. Everyone will surely be left breathless by this miracle born from nature.

The true identity of this water surface that acts as a "mirror in the sky" is tide pools that form on the tidal flats when the tide goes out. At low tide, calm water surfaces that are not affected by waves appear here and there on the shallow Chichibugahama Beach. This is why you can enjoy this magnificent view all year round.

In particular, when low tide and sunset coincide, or when there is no wind and the water surface is still, it's the perfect time to take photos! (*The times of low tide and sunset change daily. The Mitoyo City Tourism and Exchange Bureau's official website publishes a "calendar for the best viewing times," so be sure to check it out in advance.)

If you want to experience a more dramatic atmosphere, we recommend the time known as the golden hour, about 30 minutes before and after sunset. The mirror reflection on the water's surface becomes even more divine when illuminated by the beautiful sunset, which has been selected as one of the "Top 100 Sunsets in Japan."

Don't just focus on the water in front of you, but also pay attention to the sand at your feet. The ripples in the sand, cast in beautiful shadows by the setting sun, are incredibly photogenic. You're sure to get a great shot.

The key point when taking a photo is to keep the water level. Also, be aware that the whole body is reflected in the water. If you are aware of the subject's "movement" - lifting their arms and legs, walking, jumping, etc. - you can create a photo that looks more dynamic and is more suitable for social media.

Chichibugahama Beach

[Kochi Prefecture] A live-action version of a world-famous painting! "Monet's Garden Marmottan in Kitagawa Village"

Claude Monet was a French painter who epitomized the Impressionist movement. Known as the "painter of light," his masterpiece "Water Lilies" has stood the test of time and is still loved around the world today. Did you know that there is a place where you can see the world of this painting in person?

The famous painting "Water Lilies" was created in the village of Giverny, where Monet's mansion is located. Monet was interested in the scenery reflected on the water's surface, so he built a pond near his house, planted water lilies, and built his beloved Japanese-style drum bridge... Over the years, he gradually made improvements to create a "water garden." Monet's beloved garden has been recreated at "Kitagawa Village 'Monet's Garden' Marmottan" in Kochi Prefecture.

As the only "Monet's garden" permitted outside of France, the level of reproduction is extremely high. This is no surprise. The garden was developed under the supervision and guidance of the garden manager of the original house, and the staff also made multiple visits to the site to steadily create it. The garden's creation was so highly praised that the manager was awarded the Order of Arts and Letters by the French government.

The Water Garden, which is reminiscent of the famous painting "Water Lilies," is decorated with vibrant flowers and plants that surround a pond, centered around familiar Japanese trees such as wisteria, willows, and cherry blossoms.

Among the colorful water lilies floating on the water, the blue ones are the ones that attract the most attention. Because blue water lilies are tropical, Monet tried to cultivate them until the end of his life, but was never able to make them bloom. It is also interesting to view the paintings while thinking about the background behind the blue lilies.

The best time to visit the Water Garden is from late April to late October. If you want to see the blue water lilies, we recommend going from late June to late October. The flowers close during the day, so it's best to visit in the morning.

There are other gardens in the park themed on Monet's paintings. The "flower garden" is filled with seasonal flowers, and looks like a palette of colorful paints. The most striking feature is the rose arch, which was also used as a motif in the painting, so it's a spot you won't want to miss.

The Bordighera Garden was inspired by Monet's paintings of Bordighera, a town on the Mediterranean coast that he was fascinated by. Palm and olive trees are planted to recreate the light and colors unique to the Mediterranean.

When visiting "Monet's Garden," we recommend studying his works beforehand. By learning how Monet painted "Water Lilies," "The Rose Lane," "Bordighera," etc., you can enjoy the beauty of the landscape and the worldview more deeply.

Kitagawa Village "Monet's Garden" Marmottan

[Kumamoto] "Aso Farmland, Great Nature Aso Healthful Forest" is reminiscent of a Southeast Asian resort

Aso Farmland, where you can feel the natural breath of Aso, is a stay-based health promotion facility where you can forget the hustle and bustle of everyday life and relax both body and mind. Within the premises is the Great Nature Aso Healthy Forest, a dedicated accommodation area lined with round dome-shaped hotels.

This is a so-called "hotel in the forest" that makes use of the magnificent natural topography within the national park. It is surrounded by lush trees, a stream and the pleasant breeze of the plateau. Because it was built based on the natural environment, even though there are over 300 rooms, not a single one has the same environment. The view from the window and the path leading to the inn each have their own unique look, which is interesting.

Once you step inside, you'll find yourself in a small village surrounded by a lush green forest. All you'll see is lush nature and strangely shaped buildings. This unique location makes you feel like you've wandered into a fairy tale world, and will excite both adults and children.

The Aso Healthful Forest is divided into sections based on themes. The "Village Zone" is where the standard guest rooms are lined up. The cute egg-shaped pink and yellow roofs will make your heart flutter. The atmospheric stone paving and rounded doors will surely arouse the child within you.

Sleeping in an extraordinary space with a view of the domed ceiling. Wake up in the morning to the sunlight of Aso streaming in through the windows. A comfortable start to your day.

Meanwhile, the "Royal Zone" is a luxurious area with each guest room surrounded by a wall, gated entrance, and private garden. It is popular for its villa-like feel.

The bathrooms in each room are equipped with claw-foot bathtubs, something that everyone has dreamed of owning at least once, so you can enjoy feeling like a princess in this special space.

The view is spectacular not only during the day, but also after sunset, when the flickering lights shining from the dome create a truly fantastical sight. The air is clear, so you can enjoy the beautiful stars in the sky.

You can also enjoy meals made with plenty of fresh vegetables grown on-site, so it's sure to be a satisfying stay for both adults and children.

Aso National Park Healthful Forest (within Aso Farmland)

[Kagoshima Prefecture] Sogi Falls, affectionately known as the "Niagara of the Orient"

Sogi Falls is located in Isa City, Kagoshima Prefecture, a water town surrounded by mountains on all sides. This waterfall is the widest in Japan (approximately 210m) and is called the "Niagara Falls of the Orient," and has been loved by locals for a long time. There is also an anecdote that even Toyotomi Hideyoshi once enjoyed its majestic appearance.

The biggest attraction of Sogi Falls is its magnificent scale, about 210m wide and 12m high. The roaring sound of the water flowing down, carving the rock face of Senjoiwa Rock, is truly spectacular. Bathing your whole body in negative ions is sure to refresh your mind and body.

The surrounding area is a natural park, and Sogi Falls is beautiful in every season, with cherry blossoms in spring and ginkgo and maple trees floating in the water in autumn. It's a truly romantic scene. If you want to see a more spectacular waterfall, try visiting in the summer. In summer, the water volume increases more than usual, making it even more impressive.

If you want to get a closer look at the falls, we recommend the waterfall observation point. From here you can see the powerful spray of the waterfall. There are several other photo spots in the park, and depending on the location you can capture the falls from a variety of angles, so it's fun to search for your favorite spot.

In addition to restaurants and souvenir shops, the park is packed with attractions such as Shimizu Shrine, which enshrines the gods of matchmaking and safe childbirth, and a hydroelectric power generation tunnel that was dug by hand. About a 20-minute walk away is the brick-built Sogi Power Plant Ruins Observatory, reminiscent of the remains of a medieval European castle, so why not visit this as well?

Just like Niagara Falls, one of the three great waterfalls in the world, Sogi Falls never ceases to captivate visitors. Not only can you enjoy the spectacular view, but it's also a spot that's sure to soothe you with plenty of healing power.

Sogi Falls

[Okinawa Prefecture] Outstanding transparency! Italy's Blue Grotto can also be found here at "Maeda Cape"

About an hour from Naha City, under the cliffs of Cape Maeda in Onna Village in central Okinawa, there is a beautiful cave that is just like the Blue Grotto on the Italian island of Capri. The Blue Grotto on the Italian island of Capri, described as a "breathtaking view that you must see at least once in your life," is famous for its mysterious sight enveloped in blue light.

Cape Maeda, affectionately known as the Blue Cave just like the real thing, is a perennially popular spot for diving and snorkeling. It is also widely known as a scenic spot as it is designated as part of the Okinawa Kaigan Quasi-National Park.

The Blue Cave is about 30 meters long and was formed by seawater erosion. Apparently it was used as a refuge for fishermen in rough seas in the past.

There are two ways to enjoy this Blue Cave: snorkeling or diving. You can swim close to the cave on your own, but if you join a tour organized by a marine shop or similar, you can travel by boat to the entrance of the cave and enjoy exploring inside the cave while listening to the tour staff's guide.

As it is one of Okinawa's most popular tourist destinations, it often gets crowded. It gets very crowded from morning until early afternoon, so if you want to enjoy it at a leisurely pace, we recommend joining a tour in the early morning or evening.

The sunlight that shines through the entrance of the cave reflects off the surface of the sea, creating an indescribably beautiful blue glow as if it were lit up at night. A fantastical world created by nature unfolds before your eyes. Even if you're not good at swimming, you can still enjoy the beauty of the sea just by peeking out from Cape Maeda.

From the promenade that stretches out to sea, you can see the crystal clear ocean, steep rocks, and if you're lucky, you can even see whales peeking out from between the rocks, making this a great place to experience nature. Be sure to stop by during your trip to Okinawa.

Cape Maeda

In fact, many people may not know that Japan is dotted with beautiful spots that are just like those overseas. Even if you can't go abroad right now, you can start by immersing yourself in the feeling of traveling abroad while you're in Japan, and planning your future overseas trips.

Related article

A trip to a domestic resort hotel that will make you feel like you're abroad

The exhilarating feeling of being in a perpetual summer paradise. Or the extraordinary townscape that makes you feel like you're on a trip to a Mediterranean resort. There are resort hotels like this all over Japan that will make you feel like you're traveling abroad.

ontrip.jal.co.jp

Feel like you're traveling abroad while in Japan. Travel to Tohoku and enjoy the scenery of the world

Traveling through unknown landscapes and experiencing foreign cultures and traditions. What if you could enjoy the thrill of traveling abroad in Japan? In fact, Tohoku has many places that resemble the world's most spectacular scenery, such as Turkey's Cappadocia and Italy's Blue Grotto, as well as spots that exude an exotic atmosphere. In this article, we will suggest a trip to Tohoku that takes you to spots that look just like the world's scenery.

ontrip.jal.co.jp