Pretty port cities
AN interesting way of exploring the Land of the Rising Sun is through an ocean cruise. Japan’s port cities have an enduring charm of their own. My personal favouritewas Kan az aw a, where we roamed around a centuries-old castle, were treated to handcrafted Japanese sweets, and sampled the freshest seafood from the markets.
Fukuoka
Japan’s sixth largest city is most famous for its ramen noodles. If you arrive at night in the downtown district of Hakata, head to Nakasu Island for a meal at the yatai (open air food stalls) along the river. Try the Hakata Ramen, a heavy noodle dish with a milk-coloured broth that has a thick buttery taste. If you only have the day, try Ramen Stadium inside Canal City shopping complex, where a collection of eight restaurants serve up different interpretations of the Hakata Ramen.
Maizuru
“Kyoto by the Sea” is known for kamaboko, a cured fish cake. At the Kamaboko Hand-making Experience factory, a master will teach you to make kamaboko, as well as chikuwa (grilled fish paste) and tempura (fried fish paste). Drive down to Amanohashidate, a naturally formed land-bridge named one of Japan’s top three most scenic views. Take a chair cable up to the viewing deck at Mt Monju and look at the view from between your legs, when you bend down, to see a “dragon” ascending to the skies.
Kanazawa
Gold leaf production is popular in Kanazawa, a city whose name means “marsh of gold”. Treat yourself to a gold leaf soft-serve ice cream, or the more luxurious gold leaf skincare.
Get some fresh air at the stunning Kenrokuen Garden, and cross the main road to enter the centuries-old Kanazawa Castle, which has retained its beautiful stone and wood structures. Be adventurous and try the raw oysters, sea urchins and other delicacies in Omichi Market. Also stop by the Higashi Chaya teahouse district for a performance by the geisha (female entertainers) who still live here.
Sakaiminato
Relive the samurai life at Matsue Castle, where the fearsome warriors once trained. The five-floor structure has very few windows and steep wooden steps, which make climbing a challenge, but great views await at the top.
At the Matsue History Museum next door, you can try wagashi (Japanese sweets) by grandmaster Tsugio Itami, who has been making them by hand for over 60 years. Take a boat ride from Horikawa to spot rows of samurai houses in their distinct black exterior.
Do not miss the Adachi Museum of Art, voted Japan’s best garden every year since 2013. Consisting of six different spaces spread over 165,000 sq m, the garden looks like a living Japanese painting. Pro tip: Download the Sanin Pass mobile app to gain access to multiple areas with one pass.
Busan, South Korea
Spot your favourite South Korean stars’ plaques at the Busan International Film Festival (BIFF) Square before crossing to Nampodong Market, originally started by Korean War refugees. It gained international recognition as Gukje Market after the highly successful movie Gukjesijang (Ode To My Father) was filmed here in 2014. Visit Gamcheon Culture Village, dubbed the Macchu Picchu of Busan for the houses built in staircase-fashion on the foothills by the coast. Check out the vibrant wall art created by residents along the alleyways.