Yanagidani Kannon (Yokoku-ji Temple) in Nagaokakyo City is a hidden gem near Kyoto, known for its stunning eleven-faced, thousand-armed Kannon statue. Nestled on the mountainside, the temple boasts a scenic garden and a historic study room with a killer view. Don't miss the hydrangea path in summer and the fiery autumn foliage display. Plus, rumor has it that the holy water here can work wonders for your eyes!

Komyo-ji is a Buddhist temple in Kamakura, Japan, known for its unique blend of Jodo and Zen features. It was founded in the 13th century by Hōjō Tsunetoki and has since been a center of Amidist devotion in the Kantō region. The temple's compound includes a main hall, a rock garden, and a pet cemetery where animals are laid to rest with sotōba wooden stupas bearing their names. Komyo-ji also hosts the Ten Night Memorial Service every October, a tradition dating back to 1495. With its rich history and serene atmosphere, Komyo-ji offers visitors a peaceful retreat by the sea.

The Bamboo Path (Take-no-Michi) in Muko City is a hidden gem known for its serene atmosphere and unique bamboo hedges. With a total length of 1.8 km, this picturesque path features eight different types of bamboo hedge designs, including creative creations like "Takehogaki" and "Kaguyagaki." Visitors can enjoy a leisurely stroll through the bamboo forest, away from the hustle and bustle, while listening to the soothing sounds of swaying bamboo grass and chirping birds. Don't miss the enchanting light-up event, "Bamboo Path / Kaguya-no-yube," held every autumn with thousands of bamboo lanterns illuminating the grove.

Saihō-ji (Koke-dera) Temple is a stunning Buddhist temple in Kyoto, Japan. It is estimated to have been founded by Gyōki in the Nara period and is renowned for its moss garden. Within the temple grounds, there are tea houses, a Zen rock garden, and various temples including Sairai-dō, the primary temple dedicated to Amitabha. Additionally, the temple contains a three-storied pagoda and stone monuments containing inscriptions of haikus and writings from famous Japanese poets. As Saihō-ji is listed as an UNESCO World Heritage Site and Special Place of Scenic Beauty, visitors need to make reservations before visiting. A perfect time to visit is during late autumn when the turning leaves contrast with the lush green mounds of moss.

Arashiyama Park Observation Deck in Asahikawa City, Hokkaido offers stunning views day and night from its 250m high point. Visitors can enjoy the picturesque scenery of Asahikawa City, especially popular for its night views and fireworks displays. The deck also features a replica Ainu village, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of the Ainu people. It's a must-visit spot for nature lovers and history buffs alike!

The Kitayama Cedar, known for its ultra-straight and knot-free properties, is world-renowned and a sought-after resource in Japan. Its popularity extends back to the 15th century when foresters devised a unique solution for efficient usage of limited space - daisugi technique. The process involves pruning a mother tree in a bonsai-like fashion, resulting in slender-but-flexible cedar shoots that can be harvested every 20 years. This traditional wood is often used for chopsticks, furniture pieces, and even in architectural alcoves called Tokonoma as early as the Muromachi period. With just one mother tree lasting hundreds of years, daisugi truly earns its moniker as a work of art, with each shot being sculpted into the perfect use.

Genkoan Temple in Kyoto is a unique spot that tells a story through its eerie yet beautiful features. The temple's main hall boasts a "bloody ceiling" made from floorboards of a castle where samurai shed their blood in a historic battle. The garden changes with the sunlight, and two famous windows symbolize enlightenment and human afflictions. It's a place where history, philosophy, and nature come together for a memorable experience in Kyoto.

The Prince Kyoto Takaragaike, Autograph Collection is a stylish retreat nestled in the serene Takaragaike area of Kyoto. Surrounded by the picturesque Higashiyama Mountain Range, this hotel offers a blend of modern luxury and traditional charm. Guests can enjoy spacious rooms with stunning views, exquisite dining options, and a range of facilities including a fitness room and beauty salon. With a focus on sustainability and promoting local culture, The Prince Kyoto Takaragaike provides a unique and memorable experience for visitors looking to immerse themselves in the beauty of Kyoto.