2026 Koka Travel Guide: must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transport & travel experiences (updated in August)

Bottom line: This was one of the most memorable museums I've ever visited in Japan. A glass tunnel that suddenly appears in the middle of the mountains. A space where sunlight pours in and creates sparkling reflections. 👉 It feels exactly like a portal to another world. Honestly, the "path" leading up to it is the most breathtaking part. ✔ The Pros ・The architecture is just stunningly beautiful ・The way the space blends with nature is an absolute masterpiece ・Every corner is totally Instagrammable ✔ The Cons ・Access is a bit inconvenient ・Requires a decent amount of walking ・Hard to take good photos during peak hours 👉 Perfect for people who: ・Love architecture and art ・Want to experience a surreal, out-of-the-ordinary space ・Love taking photos 👉 Not ideal for people who: ・Want a quick and easy sightseeing trip ・Aren't fans of walking 🌸 Essential tips for your visit ・Spring → The cherry blossoms and tunnel combo is god-tier ・Fall → The autumn foliage makes it even more photogenic 👉 The best seasons are Spring and Fall ⏰ Best time to go ・Morning → Less crowded, easier to snap photos ・Midday → The lighting is gorgeous, but it gets packed 👉 Verdict: Morning is your best bet What I actually felt visiting there was: 👉 "This place is a 'work of art' in itself." Rather than just a museum, it was more like a "place to experience the space." 📍 Location MIHO MUSEUM

Miho Museum is the most beautiful museum I've ever been in Japan. It was designed by the renowned Chinese-American architect I.M. Pei, who also designed the Louvre Pyramid. It is surrounded by beautiful natural landscape. Visitors have to be walked through a walkway, tunnel or suspension bridge before getting to the museum itself. I think the building itself is much more attractive than the collections inside the museum. Ancient art, antiques from Egyptian, Roman and Asian civilizations are exhibited in the museum. I went there by driving and there are free parking space provided. But you can also go there by public transportation. It is really worthing visiting if you go to Kyoto. #travel#thingstodo#museums

MIHO MUSEUM is a private art museum located in Koka City, Shiga Prefecture, Japan. Its founder is Mihoko Koyama, the founder of the Shinji Hidemei-kai. The museum was designed by the famous architect I.M. Pei and officially opened in November 1997. At that time, it was selected as one of the top ten buildings in the world by Time magazine. 💞Recommended reasons: MIHO MUSEUM has beautiful scenery and a quiet environment. It is recommended to visit during the cherry blossom season. The branches in the photo are full of pink cherry blossoms, which must be even more beautiful. 💰Average consumption per person: 1000 yen 🕰️Business hours: Tuesday to Sunday: 10:00am to 5:00pm Monday: Closed (but if Monday is a national holiday, it will be closed on Tuesday) 📍Address: Tashiro 300, Shigaraki-cho, Koka City, Shiga Prefecture, Japan* #MarchGoodPlaces2025

An art museum surrounded by nature on a vast site 🌿 The building was designed by world-renowned architect I.M. Pei, famous for the glass pyramid at the Louvre! When the sunlight shone through, it was fantastic and very beautiful ✨ The tunnel leading to the museum is also very mysterious 😌 The tunnel, covered with silver walls, reflects cherry blossoms in spring 🌸 and autumn leaves 🍁 in autumn, allowing you to enjoy different expressions with each season 𓂃𓈒𓏸 ┈┈┈┈┈┈┈ ❁ ❁ ❁ ┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈ ☑︎300 Tashiro Momodani, Shigaraki-cho, Koka-shi, Shiga ☑︎Opening hours: 10:00-17:00 (last entry 16:00) ☑︎Closed: Mondays during spring, summer, and fall, and during each opening period (next weekday if a public holiday falls on a Monday) ☑︎Admission fee: 1300 yen for adults, 1000 yen for high school and university students, free for elementary and junior high school students ☑︎Parking available (free) #mihomuseum #shigatourism #shigatrip #shigadrive #domestictriptrip

Tamura Shrine A Shiga Prefecture's number one festival with 150,000 visitors over three days! The Great Exorcism Festival (Tamura Shrine) is currently being held on 2/17, 18, and 19. Location: Shiga (lower area) Title: Great Exorcism Festival Address: 469 Kitatsuchiyama, Tsuchiyama-cho, Koka City, Shiga Prefecture P. Free parking available! The Great Exorcism Festival is currently being held! Every year, 150,000 people visit over three days! There seem to be about 50 stalls! There are many food options such as ramen, takoyaki, crepes, melon bread, steamed oysters, fried chicken, and salt-grilled sweetfish. #TamuraShrine #Shiga #ShigaTouristSpot #ShigaToko #ShigaPhotoClub #ConnectWithPhotoLovers

#FuriTabi #Shiga #ShigaTourism #Koka #KokaCity #Shigaraki #Pottery #Kiln #KilnTour 📍1087 Nagano, Shigaraki-cho, Koka-shi, Shiga 🕰️10:00-18:00 (10:00-17:00 in winter) Closed: Mondays and the second and fourth Tuesdays "TUBO-BUN" is a place where you can buy stylish Shigaraki ware. You'll come across the shop as you walk up the hill lined with houses, wondering if there's a shop in a place like this. At first glance, it looks like a warehouse, but once inside, there's a sophisticated atmosphere, and many of the vessels and accessories on display are simple and modern in design. From November 1, 2023, the brand name will be changed from "Bungoro Kiln" to "TSUBO-BUN", and the romanized notation is said to convey the intention to create vessels that are loved by people all over the world.

#besttrip2023 MIHO MUSEUM in Shiga: Harmony between beauty and nature 🏛️🌿 MIHO MUSEUM in Shiga is a wonderful museum where beauty and nature are in perfect harmony. The building itself blends in with the environment and is one with the beautiful nature. The museum is located in a lush hilly area, and nature, which changes with the seasons, is part of the exhibits. Artworks are collected from all over the world, and the works in the collection create a sense of unity between the building and the surrounding landscape. MIHO MUSEUM is beautifully designed, and natural materials such as stone and wood are used. When you step inside the museum, you can feel the harmony between art and nature, which will truly move you. This museum is a place full of artistic charm and natural beauty, and a memorable experience befitting the scenic location of Shiga awaits you. 🏛️🌿 📍300 Tashiro Momodani, Shigaraki-cho, Koka-shi, Shiga-ken, 529-1814 #MIHOMUSEUM #museum #harmonyofnature #beautyofshiga #besttrip2023

#besttrip2023 CoStudio | Dr. Bei Yuming's Handwriting: A Paradise of Beauty Interwoven with Art and Nature - Mihide Museum Mihide Museum is a beautiful spot nestled in the Shigaraki Mountains, surrounded by nature. The museum was designed by Dr. Bei Yuming, an architect of Chinese descent, known for the glass pyramid at the Louvre in Paris. Dr. Bei Yuming's architecture resembles a work of art itself, harmoniously set among the mountains. Inside, a priceless art collection is on display, offering visitors a feast of art. The surrounding area is filled with beautiful natural scenery and tranquil walking paths, allowing visitors to experience the harmony between art and nature. The beauty of the architecture and its integration with the surrounding environment make Mihide Museum a special place. Mihide Museum is a fascinating destination for art and architecture lovers, offering a unique aesthetic experience designed by Dr. Bei Yuming. #Bishu Museum of Art #Shigaraki Mountains #Nature and Art #Dr. Bei Yuming #Art Collection #Architectural Beauty #Art Feast

This time we introduce a museum that is very suitable for taking pictures, the Miho Museum in Shiga. This museum was designed by the master architect Mr. Pei Yuming and was opened in 1997. The entire art gallery is built against the mountain, even visiting now feels very contemporary, and the environment is very beautiful, giving people the feeling that the whole building is already a work of art. Art Gallery Tickets 1300Yen, the museum has a very rich collection, and the exhibits are also very diverse, if you visit carefully you can see most of the day! However, since photography is prohibited in various exhibition halls in the museum, I can't share it for everyone to see. Overall, I highly recommend it to friends who like to visit the art gallery. If you have the opportunity, you can come and visit! #Japan must-see photo spots #overseas travel #art gallery

Miho Museum in Koka City, Shiga Prefecture The museum is actually about 500m from the parking lot. You can get there by bus, but you can also walk. The view of the museum beyond the tunnel is apparently very popular in spring for cherry blossom viewing. #museum #gw2022jp

Miho Museum in Koka, Shiga Prefecture Today's special exhibition was a kaiseki cuisine pottery exhibition. As Koka is famous for Shigaraki ware, it was a very extravagant exhibition. The tea utensils used in tea ceremonies left a strong impression on me. I enjoyed the glamorous culture of the Azuchi-Momoyama period. #museum #gw2022jp

While in Kyoto, we took a short excursion and visited Miho Museum(Koka city Shiga prefecture, Japan). A real architectural gem of IM Pei with an impressive collection of antiques from different parts of the world. The edgy museum building itself blends in perfectly with the beautiful natural surroundings. Recommend spending a whole day here.

#cultureshock I visited several exhibitions in the Kansai region this year. First, I saw an oil painting exhibition by a Dutch artist in Kyoto, and then a Japanese National Treasures exhibition in Osaka. I had originally planned to continue my tour in Nara, but the emotional impact of the previous exhibitions was so intense that I felt I needed some time to process it, so I decided to take a break. In fact, visiting exhibitions has become an indispensable part of my itinerary every time I go to Japan. Not only are the exhibits of high quality, but the curation and overall viewing experience are also exceptional. 1. Unless explicitly permitted, most major exhibitions do not allow photography. While it can be a bit disappointing, it's actually a good thing for true art lovers, as it filters out those who are more interested in taking photos for show than in the art itself. 2. Many Japanese people bring a dedicated viewing telescope to exhibitions. I later realized how necessary this is, especially when looking at ancient paintings or calligraphy. 3. When I see ancient Chinese calligraphy and paintings, I often feel as if I've traveled back in time to converse with the ancients; it's a magical feeling. For instance, when I saw "Returning Home with Cattle in the Snow" in Osaka this time, the scene felt exactly like my childhood. 4. Many museums and galleries are masterpieces in themselves. Most are understated and restrained, with a subdued color palette. I remember one autumn when I visited the Miho Museum in Kyoto, designed by I.M. Pei. Standing before its floor-to-ceiling windows, looking out at the mountains and fields of maple leaves, the view surpassed the beauty of any traditional Japanese garden. 5. The restrooms are not only clean but also thoughtfully designed. I can't recall which museum it was, but the restrooms were entirely white yet not dull at all, and the mirrors were spotless. 6. Many collections in public museums and galleries are donated by wealthy Japanese individuals. 7. In recent years, Japan has been using exhibitions to revitalize remote villages and islands, such as the small islands in the Seto Inland Sea. 8. The general etiquette among visitors is quite high. It's rare to see people on their phones, let alone taking photos. Most people rent an audio guide, carry a telescope, and take their time viewing the exhibits. They also tend to dress formally, often in long sleeves and pants. 9. There are many staff members on site. If someone is not following the rules, an attendant will immediately approach them to offer guidance. 10. It's incredibly quiet. You can hardly hear any conversation, and there are very few unruly children. Even when staff members need to intervene, they do so in a very low voice. 11. The curation level is generally high. Whether it's the lighting, the flow of the exhibition, or the text descriptions, everything feels harmonious and doesn't distract from the artwork. 12. The internationalization is impressive. There are many major exhibitions. For example, the "Draft of the Requiem for My Nephew" by Yan Zhenqing, which I heard was not even viewable in Taipei, was on display in Tokyo. #japan#tokyo#exhibition#culturalshock#exhibitionexperience#apersonsjourney#osakamuseumofart#tokyonationalmuseumofwesterfwester...#art#chinajapan

Have you ever seen a bodhisattva statue with a carved cicada on its head? This is a stone bodhisattva statue with a cicada crown from the Eastern Wei dynasty, excavated from the Longhua Temple site in Boxing, Shandong. The bodhisattva’s crown features a carved cicada in the center, based on an ancient Han dynasty belief. The ancients thought cicadas could shed their shells and be reborn, symbolizing the soul’s transformation and transcendence beyond life and death. This Buddhist statue, influenced by foreign Buddhism, incorporates native Chinese culture, making it an excellent example of Buddhism’s sinicization. The soft, open facial features unique to the Eastern Wei dynasty show slightly closed eyes and a faint, reserved smile. After thousands of years, the stone statue has some damage to the nose, crown edges, and arms, but traces of the original paint remain on the halo behind it. The artifact was once lost to the Meishu Museum in Japan. After years of negotiation, it was returned to its homeland in 2007 and is now permanently housed in Shandong Museum. More than 1,500 years have passed, yet the gentle and calm expression remains unchanged. 📍 Shandong Museum

It's convenient because you can check the water level online beforehand. I went the day after it rained! It was interesting because it was a dam with a shape I'd never seen before.

📝 Impressions Took a day trip to explore Shiga Prefecture's popular spots: MIHO MUSEUM and Shigaraki Tanuki Village. It was a luxurious itinerary where you can enjoy the charm of art, nature, and Shigaraki ware all at once. 🌸 MIHO Museum The MIHO Museum appears amidst the deep, mountainous nature of Shigaraki. It was designed by world-renowned architect I.M. Pei, who is also famous for designing the glass pyramid at the Louvre Museum. The journey to the museum itself is breathtaking. You pass through a path lined with cherry blossom trees, walk through a magical tunnel, and cross a suspension bridge before the museum finally reveals itself. This approach was designed to evoke the image of the "Peach Blossom Spring" (Shangri-La) from the ancient Chinese tale, drawing you into an extraordinary world before you even arrive. Inside, Japanese art and ancient art from around the world are on display, and the building itself is a masterpiece of art. The lush green mountains and the glass architecture blend in perfect harmony, creating a picture-perfect space from every angle. 🦝 Shigaraki Tanuki Village After visiting the MIHO Museum, we headed over to see Shigaraki's famous raccoon dogs (tanuki) at Shigaraki Tanuki Village. From the moment you enter, tanuki of all sizes are there to welcome you. They are so incredibly adorable that you can't help but smile. Inside the village, you can enjoy: 🏺 Shigaraki ware exhibitions 🏺 Souvenir shopping 🏺 Pottery making experiences 🏺 Taking photos with giant tanuki and much more. Another fun detail is that as you drive through the town of Shigaraki, you'll literally see tanuki statues everywhere. It's easy to see why it's called the "Village of Tanuki." 🌴 Recommended Points ✔ The Shangri-La-like MIHO Museum ✔ The architectural beauty by world-renowned architect I.M. Pei ✔ Stunning natural scenery throughout the four seasons ✔ Experiencing the charm of Shigaraki ware ✔ A fun stroll through a town filled with tanuki ✔ Makes for a great day trip from Kyoto 📷 Best Photo Spots 📸 The tunnel at the MIHO Museum 📸 The suspension bridge and the museum 📸 The stunning glass architecture 📸 The giant tanuki at Shigaraki Tanuki Village 📸 Quirky and unique tanuki statues 📸 Shigaraki pottery pieces 🌟 Summary 👉 "Soothing your soul with art and nature at the MIHO Museum, and smiling warmly at Shigaraki Tanuki Village. It was a highly recommended itinerary in Shiga that both adults and kids can enjoy." 🔥 Final Thoughts 👉 "A museum that feels like Shangri-La and utterly charming tanuki. It was an unforgettable trip packed with the unique appeal of Shigaraki." 🌸🏛️🦝✨📸🌿🚗

The "submerged torii gate" is almost always featured in magazines showcasing stunning scenery. ⁡It is said that "the path leading from the torii gate to Benten Island lies dormant at the bottom of Benten Pond."☺️ At this time of year, water lilies bloom profusely in the pond, creating a magnificent spectacle. Actually, this place isn't deep in the mountains or in the middle of nowhere, but rather within the city. ⁡ You can see this breathtaking view just a 2-minute walk from the parking lot.☺️ ♡………………… Location Artwork Title: Submerged Torii Gate Spot Name: Hachiman Shrine & Oike-ji Temple Address: 1168 Nasaka, Minakuchi-cho, Koka City, Shiga Prefecture Opening Hours: 24 hours Parking: Free parking available. Date of shooting: June 4, 2026 Time of shooting: 10:00 AM · Water lilies begin to bloom in the morning and close by noon. ⁡ Flower meanings by color: White: "Purity," "Innocence" Pink, Purple, Blue: "Trust" Yellow: "Gentleness," "Sweetness" ⁡ While they have a pure image, they also have the flower meanings of "destruction" and "end of love." This originates from the fall of ancient Egyptian civilization and tragic Greek love myths. ⁡ · From the expressway: Approximately 15 minutes from the Koka-Tsuchiyama Interchange on the Shin-Meishin Expressway Approximately 20 minutes from the Shigaraki Interchange on the Shin-Meishin Expressway Approximately 30 minutes from the Ritto Interchange on the Meishin Expressway Approximately 30 minutes from the Yokaichi Interchange Approximately 40 minutes from the Kamitsuge Interchange on the Meihan Expressway Approximately 30 minutes from the Kameyama Interchange · From the Kyoto area: Transfer to the Kusatsu Line from JR Biwako Line Kusatsu Station, get off at Mikumo Station, then a 10-minute taxi ride. · From the Maibara area: Get off at Minakuchi-Jonan Station on the Omi Railway, then a taxi. Access: From JR Kibukawa Station, take the Koka City Community Bus Hironodai Line and get off at Oikeji. Alternatively, get off at Minakuchi Station on the Omi Railway and walk for 20 minutes. ⁡ · ------❁� -------❁� ☾ ❁�------- ❁�------- #SunkenTorii #ScenicSpot #ShigaPrefecture #shigatrip #shigaprefecture

Miho Museum is truly a hidden paradise! 🌟 This is a private museum owned by the incredibly wealthy Ms. Mihoko Koyama. Although the collection isn't particularly outstanding (over 3,000 pieces, with about 250 on permanent display), the building itself is definitely worth a special visit! After all, this is a breathtaking work by the architectural master I.M. Pei~😍 📍Location is amazing: Nestled deep in the mountains south of Lake Biwa, it's about a 40-minute drive from Otsu. The entire tour route feels like stepping back into Tao Yuanming's "Peach Blossom Spring" from the Eastern Jin dynasty—truly magical! 🌸The tour route is stunning: 1️⃣ First, walk along a long cherry blossom avenue or a mossy green path (scenery varies with the seasons) 2️⃣ Then pass through a 300-meter winding tunnel 3️⃣ Finally, cross a dreamy suspension bridge in the forest "Through a small mountain opening, as if there is light"—isn't this exactly the place?! ✨ Each season offers unique beauty: Spring with fluttering cherry blossoms 🌸 Summer with lush green shade 🍃 Late autumn with fiery red maples 🍁 Winter wrapped in silver snow ❄️ Every snapshot looks like a masterpiece! In comparison, the geometric architecture inside feels quite understated~ 📸Photo Tips: 1. Don’t miss the tunnel entrance and suspension bridge 2. The brown leather benches inside the museum make great photo spots 3. Remember to wear light-colored clothes for better photos.

Here's a roundup of art museums across Japan where the architecture and the spaces themselves are works of art, not to mention the incredible exhibits inside. ・MIHO MUSEUM @ Shiga Prefecture → Designed by I.M. Pei, the renowned architect famous for the Louvre Pyramid. The stunning archway leading up to the museum entrance is absolutely magnificent! ・Nakamura Keith Haring Collection @ Yamanashi Prefecture → Tucked away in the lush, nature-filled mountains of Kobuchizawa, this museum lets you fully experience pop art! The exhibits and merchandise are adorable, making it a highly recommended spot for photos! ・Kawaguchiko Music Forest Museum @ Yamanashi Prefecture → Located near Lake Kawaguchi, this space makes you feel as though you've stepped right into a charming European estate. ・Simose Art Museum @ Hiroshima Prefecture → Featuring architecture that has been recognized as one of the most beautiful museums in the world! ・Itchiku Kubota Art Museum → A museum that looks like ancient ruins. The mesmerizing garden, which makes you feel like you've wandered into another world, is an absolute must-see. Despite being spectacular, all of these spots are still hidden gems. Why not plan your next trip around Japan's most stunning art museums?

I discovered an incredibly cute and off-the-beaten-path travel destination in Kansai—Shigaraki! This is the birthplace of Shigaraki ware ✨ One of Japan's six ancient kilns. It's only a 2-hour train ride from Osaka and Kyoto 🚃 The entire town is filled with adorable tanuki (raccoon dog) elements 🐱. Tanuki of all sizes and shapes are everywhere—in front of shops, at the station, in alleys, and in stores. It's said that the Japanese believe displaying tanuki brings good fortune 💰 Besides tanuki, the pottery here is also very distinctive. Its rugged, natural style and warm, unique glazes perfectly showcase the "beauty of fire and earth" 🔥🧱 The town is small; you can explore it in 2-3 hours. It has a large elderly population, so the shopkeepers are incredibly friendly and will chat with you in travel English 👵🏻👴🏻. Strolling through this rustic Japanese countryside at sunset is truly relaxing and therapeutic 💫 🔥Tips: 1. The tram to Shigaraki Station only runs once an hour ⏰ 2. 470 yen cash is required in advance for the train ticket 💴 3. The autumn foliage along the way is absolutely stunning if you go in autumn 🍁 4. I recommend checking out the nearby Miho Museum 🎨 along the way 🎨 If you're tired of visiting the popular city attractions, why not set aside half a day to experience this charming town full of Japanese ritual and feel a different side of the Kansai region!

Minakuchi Castle The cherry blossom illumination is currently underway! The illumination this time has a completely different vibe than usual—it's glowing deep red! ⁡ These castle ruins are located about 150 meters north of Minakuchi-jonan Station on the Ohmi Railway.⁡ It now serves as a museum, and you can actually go inside! ☺️ ┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈ Spot: Minakuchi Castle Ruins ⁡ Address: 4-80 Honmaru, Minakuchi-cho, Koka City, Shiga Prefecture ⁡ Admission Fees Museum Admission: 200 yen Joint Ticket with Minakuchi History and Folklore Museum: 300 yen [Free Admission for the Following:] Those who live, work, or study in the city Those under 18 years old and high school students Those with disabilities and one accompanying person ⁡ Business Hours Museum: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM ⁡ Closed Days Museum: Mondays, Tuesdays, and during the New Year's holidays ⁡ Cherry Blossom Illumination: Late March to early April. Illumination Hours: Until 9:00 PM.⁡ ┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈

MIHO MUSEUM in Koka City is a highly recommended, uncrowded photo spot in the Kansai region with breathtaking scenery, and it's an absolute must-visit during cherry blossom season! The highlight of this trip is visiting this exquisitely designed museum surrounded by lush mountains. Not only does it feature Japan's exclusive pink weeping cherry blossoms, but the surrounding natural environment is also incredibly therapeutic. Plus, with the current Gold Exhibition running concurrently, it's the ultimate destination for both art lovers and nature enthusiasts. If you love cherry blossoms, art, or photography, you definitely need to bookmark this! 🌸 Attraction Spotlight: MIHO MUSEUM Unlike cherry blossom viewing in the city center, the biggest highlight of MIHO MUSEUM is its expansive, cascading pink weeping cherry blossoms. Escaping the urban crowds and being entirely surrounded by mountains, just imagine walking through the tunnel and stepping out to a mountain blanketed in pink—every photo you take will look like a dream! Even after the sakura season, the museum hosts various special exhibitions every year that are well worth a visit. Currently, the Gold Exhibition is on display, showcasing exceptionally high-quality collections and curations. You get to experience both artistic value and natural beauty all at once! 🎟️ Visitor Information Address: 300 Momotani, Tashiro, Shigarakicho, Koka, Shiga 529-1814, Japan Opening Hours: March 1 - 13: Closed; March 14 - April 30: Closed on Mondays, 10:00 - 17:00 (Last admission at 16:00); May 1 - 6: Open Mon, Wed, Fri, Sat, Sun, 10:00 - 17:00 (Last admission at 16:00); May 7: Closed; May 8 - June 1: Closed on Mondays, 10:00 - 17:00 (Last admission at 16:00); June 2 - 7: Open Tuesday to Sunday, 10:00 - 17:00 (Last admission at 16:00); June 8 - July 3: Closed ⭐️ Practical Tips Summary 1. The best time for cherry blossom viewing is usually from mid-March to early April. We recommend checking the blooming forecast or official website announcements before your trip. 2. The museum's architecture perfectly blends with nature. You can take the shuttle bus or walk through the tunnel to reach the main entrance. Wearing comfortable sneakers is highly recommended. 3. The museum features its own in-house Café. Sometimes their limited-time menu offers sakura or seasonal desserts. After strolling through the gallery, take a moment to chill out and grab some afternoon tea. 4. Be sure to check the official website before your visit, as opening days may change. You don't want to arrive only to find out it's closed! 5. Booking tickets in advance is recommended. There might be crowd control during popular exhibitions or peak cherry blossom season. 🚌 Transportation Guide By Car: About a 35-minute drive from downtown Koka. There's plenty of free parking available, and the scenic drive is fantastic. Public Transit: Take the train to JR Kibukawa Station and transfer to the direct shuttle bus to the museum. Make sure to check the shuttle schedule and frequency in advance. 🍴 Food & Dining Tips The museum's Café specializes in healthy light meals and desserts. Enjoying their special sakura cake or matcha while admiring the flowers is a top-tier experience. Alternatively, you can check out the nearby Shigaraki area, which offers unique pottery-themed restaurants—definitely worth a side trip if you have the time. Conclusion MIHO MUSEUM is more than just a "secret garden for flower viewing"; it also perfectly captures the essence of art and architectural beauty. If you're a fan of cherry blossoms, art, and photography, you must come and experience this tranquil, uncrowded flower-viewing paradise for yourself. If you want to escape the massive tourist crowds while satisfying all your five senses at once, a trip to MIHO MUSEUM in Koka is absolutely worth it.

#springtravel Tanukiya Bunpuku in Shiga is a fun stop that instantly catches your attention with rows of playful tanuki statues in all shapes and sizes. The shop feels lively and creative, perfect for browsing unique souvenirs. What makes it even better is the area around it. Shigaraki has a quiet old Japan vibe, with rustic streets, traditional wooden buildings, and small pottery shops that feel full of history. Walking around feels relaxed and personal, like discovering a hidden town that has kept its charm over time. You can easily spend time just wandering without a plan, popping into local stores or admiring the simple architecture. It is not flashy, but that is exactly the appeal. A nice mix of culture, creativity, and slow travel atmosphere.

Located in Koka City, Shiga Prefecture, the Miho Museum is renowned for its unique architectural style, designed by I. M. Pei, who also designed the Louvre Pyramid. The museum's design is inspired by the concept of a hidden utopia, offering visitors a tranquil and immersive experience. One of its highlights is the road leading to the museum, lined with weeping cherry trees, creating a picturesque scene. From early to mid-April each year, when the cherry blossoms bloom, the soft pink tunnel view is especially stunning, creating a peaceful and romantic atmosphere, making it a popular spot for cherry blossom viewing. In Shirakawa City, Fukushima Prefecture, the Rakuo Cherry Blossom Area features a three-kilometer-long weeping cherry tree avenue. This scenic route starts at Kitakata Station and follows the former Japan National Railways line. The long cherry tree path offers visitors a beautiful and serene walking experience, where they can enjoy the seasonal beauty of double-flowered and weeping cherry blossoms. Both locations provide unforgettable experiences for visitors seeking cherry blossom viewing from April to May.

Seeking the Peach Blossom Spring, encountering I.M. Pei's "Dream" in the Rain Passing through a tunnel, crossing a suspension bridge, In the rain and mist, the Miho Museum unfolds like a slowly spreading ink painting. It turns out the artistic conception of "narrow at first, just enough for a person to pass through" from "The Peach Blossom Spring" can truly be realized through architecture. Having visited Japan many times, this trip was specially for I.M. Pei’s Miho Museum. Though hesitant because of the rain, I unexpectedly had the most fitting experience—the clouds and mist swirling among the mountains, the building hidden within, appearing and disappearing. Mr. Pei buried 80% of the structure underground, making the building "disappear" into nature, with only the glass roof and louvered windows softly conversing in the interplay of light and shadow. Looking back while passing through the silver-gray tunnel, the entrance frames the mountains and mist; Standing on the suspension bridge, beneath my feet is the breath of the valley. Inside, the light spreads softly; every window is a painting, every ray of light has its origin. There is no grand facade here, but there is a sense of arrival and ceremony. I.M. Pei said this is his "Peach Blossom Spring." I believe everyone who comes here for something beautiful can find their own moment of peace. 📌 Practical Information · Address: 300 Tashiro Momodani, Shigaraki-cho, Koka City, Shiga Prefecture · Transportation: Take the JR Biwako Line from Kyoto Station to Ishiyama Station, then transfer to a direct bus (about 50 minutes) · Opening Hours: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM (last admission at 4:00 PM) · Closed: Mondays (if a holiday, closed the following day), and extended closures during annual exhibition changes; please check the official website before visiting · Admission: 1,300 JPY for adults (advance online reservation available)

This trip spans Christmas, mainly to experience the festive atmosphere and also to see other sights. Indeed, many fun, interesting, or unique places were seen. The main building in the photos is the Ethnographic Museum of Budapest. This building is a new type of eco-friendly urban architecture. It features a curved roofline and a large rooftop garden rich with plants. The curved arcs are so expansive that the building is divided into two parts, each with an arched sloping roof descending to the ground, with a large plaza in the middle. The wide rooftop hosts a variety of vegetation, some still green, others yellowed in winter. The yellowed plants also display rich colors. In the grooves on both sides of the roof, there are metal staircases. Climbing up to the top offers views of the adjacent Budapest City Park, as well as Heroes' Square, the Museum of Fine Arts, and the Budapest Art Hall. The metal mesh patterns on the glass curtain walls of the building’s front and side facades are inspired by Hungarian ethnographic collections. One side of the building faces a main city road, while the other side faces Budapest City Park, which has large tall trees and recreational facilities. In the plaza between the two sloping roofs stands a massive modern art sculpture—the Memorial of the 1956 Revolution. The sculpture is composed of hundreds of metal pillars of uniform thickness but varying heights, forming a wedge shape. In the densest area, the metal pillars connect to form a metal wall, which is spectacular. After seeing this garden-integrated, city-integrated new building, it’s easy to think of other internationally renowned eco-friendly buildings, such as the Vertical Forest in Milan, Italy (a famous architectural landmark and tourist attraction that caused a sensation in the architectural world and led the trend in eco-friendly design, designed by Stefano Boeri Architetti), and the Miho Museum in Koka City, Shiga Prefecture, Japan, designed by I. M. Pei (a masterpiece of environmental integration). A friend traveling with me immediately thought of the Vertical Forest. To appreciate the winter beauty of Budapest’s cityscape, this is a great choice. This building was designed by Napur Architect, a local Hungarian architectural firm with strong capabilities. The entire project won the "World's Best Public Infrastructure/Facility" award at the 2024 World Architecture Festival. P1: Front of the building facing Heroes' Square. It looks like a conventional building. P2: Side facade of the building viewed from the garden, showing the sloping roof gradually descending to the ground. P3: The raised roof covered with vegetation. P4: Citizens walking dogs on the sloping roof. Below is Budapest City Park. P5: Aerial view of the groove walkway on the side of the sloping roof and the plaza. P6: View of Heroes' Square, the Museum of Fine Arts, and the Budapest Art Hall. P7: View of Heroes' Square, the Museum of Fine Arts, and the Budapest Art Hall. P8: The plaza and park. P9: People climbing onto the roof. P10: The Memorial of the 1956 Revolution sculpture and the sloping roof. P11: View of Budapest City Park in winter from the rooftop. Location: Near Heroes' Square, Budapest. Behind the Budapest Art Hall at the edge of the square. Photo date: 12/26/2025

The weeping cherry blossoms in Japan are now in full bloom. This variety of cherry blossom, with its gracefully drooping branches and waterfall-like blooms, quietly spreads springtime romance across ancient gardens, shrines, mountains, and art museums throughout the country. Unlike the usual upright cherry blossoms, weeping cherries create flowing pink curtains, mirror-like reflections, and poetic spaces reminiscent of hidden paradises, offering a uniquely immersive hanami experience. [Rikugien Garden] 6-16-3 Honkomagome, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo | Blooming period: Mid-March to Early April | Access: About a 7-minute walk from Komagome Station on the JR Yamanote Line One of Edo’s two famous gardens and a nationally designated Special Place of Scenic Beauty. A roughly 15-meter-tall weeping cherry tree blooms like a pale pink waterfall cascading down, blending with artificial hills, winding streams, and stone lanterns to form a classical painting; at night, illuminated lights flicker like fireworks floating in the air. Strolling here, you can feel the tranquil tension of over 300 years of garden aesthetics coexisting with spring cherry blossoms. [Hitachi Fudoki no Oka] 1646 Someya, Ishioka City, Ibaraki Prefecture | Blooming period: Early to Late April | Access: Take a bus from Ishioka Station to Murakami Station, then about a 15-minute walk A historical and cultural park named after the "Hitachi Fudoki," planted with about 500 cherry trees. The weeping cherries reach their peak in mid-April. The pink blossoms form a tunnel, and walking through it feels like entering a floral corridor; during the cherry blossom festival, there are folk interactions and spring markets, perfect for leisurely family outings and friends’ spring excursions. [Mishima Taisha Shrine] 2-1-5 Omiya-cho, Mishima City, Shizuoka Prefecture | Blooming period: Late March to Early April | Access: About a 7-minute walk from Mishima-Tamachi Station on the Izu Hakone Railway The oldest shrine in Izu with a history of 1,300 years. Weeping cherry trees by the sacred pond reflect in the water, creating a stunning "mirror cherry" effect; at night, the ancient shrine buildings and weeping cherries are illuminated, casting mysterious light and shadow, blending solemnity with gentle Zen spirit. It is a classic scene for shrine hanami. [Minobu-san Kuon-ji Temple] 3567 Minobu, Minamikoma District, Yamanashi Prefecture | Blooming period: Late March to Early April | Access: Take a bus from JR Minobu Station to Minobu-san Station, then about a 15-minute walk The head temple of the Nichiren sect, featuring two weeping cherry trees over 400 years old, selected among the "Top Ten Weeping Cherry Trees in Japan." The drooping branches in front of the founder’s hall and the Buddha hall form curtains, where the solemn ancient temple coexists with splendid blossoms; taking the cable car up offers panoramic views of cherry spots in the valley and distant views of the Southern Alps and Mount Fuji, vast and clear, calming the heart. [Higashiyama Fruit Park] 2110 Higashiyama, Moriyama-ku, Nagoya City, Aichi Prefecture | Blooming period: Late March to Early April | Access: About a 25-minute walk from Takakura-ji Station Thousands of weeping cherry trees scatter across the orchard at the mountain’s foot, including rare varieties like Yaebenishiki, Ujo, and Sendai; during the "Weeping Cherry Festival," visitors can experience pollination, watch street performances, and taste farm cuisine. Picnicking under the cherry trees without fences allows you to fully enjoy a relaxed spring day wrapped in the gentle embrace of cherry blossoms. [MIHO MUSEUM] 300 Tashiro Momodani, Shigaraki-cho, Koka City, Shiga Prefecture | Blooming period: Early to Mid-April | Access: Take a bus from Ishiyama Station to the museum stop Passing through a 100-meter tunnel to reach the museum, over a hundred weeping cherry trees bloom at the exit, casting soft pink light and shadows on the tunnel walls. Inspired by "The Peach Blossom Spring," walking here feels like entering a hidden utopia where art, architecture, and nature resonate poetically. [Matabei Cherry Tree] Ouda Hon-go, Uda City, Nara Prefecture | Blooming period: Early to Mid-April | Access: Take a bus from Kintetsu Haibara Station to Ouda Station, then about a 20-minute walk A single ancient cherry tree about 300 years old and 13 meters tall, with branches spreading like a waterfall and pale pink flowers adorning the drooping branches. It became widely known after appearing in the opening of NHK’s Taiga drama "Aoi Tokugawa Sandai." Standing quietly in the countryside, it carries deep historical significance and legendary warmth, making it a pilgrimage destination for those seeking the "soul of cherry blossoms." [Yuka no Sato] 11 Ichinosaka, Onikurano, Kamiyama-cho, Myozai-gun, Tokushima Prefecture | Blooming period: Late March to Early April | Access: Take a bus from Tokushima Station to Onikurano Station, then about a 30-minute walk About 500 weeping cherry trees bloom simultaneously with 1,500 forsythia bushes, covering the hillside in a vivid mix of pink and bright yellow, as intense as an oil painting; from the observation deck, you can take in the entire sea of flowers and the layered distant mountains. In this expansive view, the gentle posture of the weeping cherries appears even more serene and enduring. Weeping cherry trees do not compete for height but achieve the most touching whispers of spring with their drooping posture—they flow through ancient gardens, reflect in sacred ponds, stand quietly among mountain temples, wait at tunnel ends, and watch over remote countryside. Each place is a spring poem jointly written by time and nature. Come to Japan and encounter this gentle waterfall-like bloom!

Day 1: Chikubushima Island Day 2: Shigaraki Pottery Village [Recommended Spots] 1. Hogonji Temple Overlook the island!✨ 2. Tsukubusuma Shrine Improve your luck with tile throwing to ward off bad luck 1. Tanukiya Bunpuku A restaurant shaped like a giant raccoon dog🐾 2. Pottery Experience Make and paint your own pottery and create memories!✨ [Recommended Food] 1. Tsuyukaro: Grilled Mackerel Somen Enjoy Shiga's classic local cuisine!🥢 2. Tanukiya Bunpuku: Tanuki Udon Enjoy tanuki udon surrounded by raccoons!😋 #DomesticTravel #Shiga #ShigaTourism #KansaiOuting #Japan #JapanTrip #JapanTravel #JapaneseFood #JapanSightseeing #Japan #Tokyo