Are you tired of the hectic daily routine? We recommend embarking on a solo journey during Japan's twilight hours.
Contemplative moments alone with the sunset, sea, and ancient streetscapes offer exceptional relaxation. Photography hotspots like Shimonada Station and Chichibugahama Beach not only immerse you in the twilight ambiance but also provide a visual feast!
【Hokkaido】Otaru Canal
Otaru Canal is an essential dreamlike nightscape destination for sightseeing in Sapporo. Brick buildings line both sides of the canal, illuminated by over 60 warm gas lamps after nightfall.
The hazy lights reflecting on the water create a breathtakingly beautiful scene. Strolling along the canal immerses you in the twilight charm. During the February light event, the interplay of snow and light adds a nostalgic ambiance!
The surrounding area also features galleries, cafes, and other facilities perfect for solo travelers!
- Otaru Canal (小樽運河)
- Address: Minatomachi, Otaru City, Hokkaido
- Transportation:
・Train: About 10 minutes' walk from Otaru Station on the JR Hakodate Main Line
・Car: About 10 minutes from Otaru IC on the Sasson Expressway
【Aomori Prefecture】Oirase Stream
Oirase Stream is Aomori Prefecture's premier twilight destination. Its serene atmosphere envelops you, making it an ideal spot for spiritual cleansing.
The area is filled with dense trees and clear streams, perfectly blending to create a mystical world. Rainy days enhance the scenery, resembling an anime setting, and trails along the stream allow for leisurely walks.
Nearby attractions like Lake Towada and various waterfalls are also worth visiting.
- Oirase Stream (奥入瀬渓流)
- Address: Okuse, Towada City, Aomori Prefecture
- Transportation:
・Train: JR Bus from Hachinohe Station on the JR Tohoku Main Line to Yasumiya Station, then a short walk
・Car: About 1 hour from Towada IC on the Tohoku Expressway
【Yamagata Prefecture】Ginzan Onsen
Ginzan Onsen is a wooden hot spring town brimming with Taisho-era romantic charm, a popular destination for both domestic and international tourists.
The winter snowscape interwoven with the hot spring town creates a stunning view. At nightfall, gas lamps light up, complementing the retro architecture and snowy scenery. This is the perfect place for quiet contemplation.
At Ginzan Onsen, free foot baths and street food are major attractions. The high-quality hot springs and excellent service ensure a satisfying visit!
- Ginzan Onsen (銀山温泉)
- Address: Ginzan Onsen, Obanazawa City, Yamagata Prefecture
- Transportation:
・Train: Hanayasa Bus from Oishida Station on the JR Yamagata Shinkansen to the final stop, then a short walk
・Car: About 50 minutes from Higashine IC on the Tohoku Chuo Expressway
【Yamagata Prefecture】Kosugi Cedar
Kosugi Cedar is a thousand-year-old sacred tree in Sakegawa Village, Yamagata Prefecture. A mountain deity is enshrined at its base, and its resemblance to a famous anime character has sparked buzz.
Standing 20 meters tall with a 17-meter branch span, this giant tree is awe-inspiring. Its double-trunk structure makes it a favorite among couples as a "marriage tree."
The open surroundings of Kosugi Cedar are ideal for daydreaming and relaxation. Its cute, whimsical shape adds fun, making it perfect for photos!
- Kosugi Cedar (小杉の大杉)
- Address: Kosugi 113-2, Magarikawa, Sakegawa Village, Mogami District, Yamagata Prefecture
- Transportation:
・Train: About 30 minutes by car from Shinjo Station on the JR Yamagata Line
・Car: About 1 hour 10 minutes from Higashine IC on the Tohoku Chuo Expressway
【Fukushima Prefecture】Ouchijuku
Ouchijuku, a post town from the Edo period, is a designated Important Preservation District for Traditional Buildings. Its thatched-roof streetscape creates a perfect atmosphere for solo exploration.
We especially recommend visiting during the July summer festival or February snow festival, when the snowy scenes during the latter enhance the ethereal vibe!
Many traditional houses here serve local specialties like "negi soba" (green onion soba). Don’t miss trying it!
- Ouchijuku (大内宿)
- Address: Yamamoto, Ouchi, Shimogo Town, Minamiaizu District, Fukushima Prefecture
- Illumination Time: 17:30–20:00
- Transportation:
・Train: Aizu Bus from Yunokami Onsen Station on the Aizu Railway to Ouchijuku Entrance, then a short walk
・Car: About 1 hour 10 minutes from Shirakawa IC on the Tohoku Expressway
【Shizuoka Prefecture】Izu Southwest Coast
The Izu Southwest Coast, a national scenic site, is renowned for its jagged coastline and unique rock formations. The breathtaking views at the "Japan’s No. 1 Sunset Declaration" spot are not to be missed.
At twilight, the sky and sea glow crimson, with small islands and rocks casting enchanting silhouettes. The majestic Mount Fuji across Suruga Bay adds grandeur, making solo moments especially precious.
The area is dotted with hot springs, perfect for a two-day, one-night trip. These quality hot springs will fully rejuvenate your body and mind.
- Izu Southwest Coast (伊豆西南海岸)
- Address: Otago Coast, Nishiizu Town, Kamo District, Shizuoka Prefecture, etc.
- Transportation:
・Train: Tokai Bus from Shuzenji Station to Otago Station, then about 5 minutes’ walk
・Car: About 1 hour 10 minutes from Numazu IC on the Shin-Tomei Expressway
【Nagano Prefecture】Tsumago-juku
Tsumago-juku, surrounded by abundant nature, is a designated Important Preservation District for Traditional Buildings. As a thriving post town in the Edo period, it exudes historical charm, offering a glimpse into past lifestyles.
The town is dotted with traditional cafes and shops, perfect for leisurely solo strolls! Visit historically significant sites like Tsumago-juku Honjin or the Kumagai Residence, or capture the ancient streets with mountains in the background.
Don’t forget to try local specialties like buckwheat dishes and desserts!
- Tsumago-juku (妻籠宿)
- Address: Azuma 2196-1, Nagiso Town, Kiso District, Nagano Prefecture
- Transportation:
・Train: Nagiso Town New Transportation System Bus (Magome/Tsumago/Hoshin direction) from Nagiso Station on the JR Chuo Main Line to Tsumago Station, then a short walk
・Car: About 25 minutes from Nakatsugawa IC on the Chuo Expressway
【Kagawa Prefecture】Chichibugahama Beach
Dubbed "Japan’s Uyuni Salt Flat," Chichibugahama Beach boasts a kilometer-long sandy shore. Its mirror-like reflections, popularized on social media, have made it one of Kagawa Prefecture’s iconic landmarks.
The "sky mirror" effect is visible only during calm, low-tide conditions. The infinite reflections where sea and sky merge are breathtaking, especially at twilight, offering a dreamy, romantic experience!
The ever-changing color gradients are a highlight, making this an ideal spot to feel the passage of time!
- Chichibugahama Beach (父母ヶ浜)
- Address: Niootsu 203-3, Nio Town, Mitoyo City, Kagawa Prefecture (Chichibugahama Beach)
- Transportation:
・Train: Mitoyo City Community Bus (Nio Line) from Takuma Station on the JR Yosan Line to Chichibugahama Station, then a short walk
・Car: About 15 minutes from Sanuki Toyonaka IC on the Takamatsu Expressway
【Ehime Prefecture】Shimonada Station
Shimonada Station is a viral social media hotspot. Located right by the coast, its platform offers stunning views of the Seto Inland Sea.
As the prefecture’s top sunset viewing spot, the twilight scene of the station against a crimson sea is exquisite. Watching the sun sink below the horizon is the perfect moment for solitary reflection.
The magical hour after sunset is unmissable! The sea’s transition from fiery red to deep blue is a spectacular sight!
- Shimonada Station (下灘駅)
- Address: Okubo Ko 39-1, Futami Town, Iyo City, Ehime Prefecture
- Transportation:
・Train: Short walk from Shimonada Station on the JR Yosan Line
・Car: About 20 minutes from Iyo IC on the Matsuyama Expressway
【Kagoshima Prefecture】Yurigahama Beach
Yurigahama Beach is a miraculous sight that appears only a few times a year, lasting just hours each time. Emerging during low tide in spring and summer, this pristine white sandbar exudes mysterious beauty.
The harmony of emerald-green waters and snowy sand feels like paradise. August, with the clearest waters, is the best time to visit. Reflect deeply on this unobstructed sandbar!
Local legend says collecting star-shaped sand equal to your age brings happiness.
- Yurigahama Beach (百合ヶ浜)
- Address: 1.5 km offshore from Okinagu Coast, Yoron Town, Oshima District, Kagoshima Prefecture
- Transportation: About 20 minutes from Yoron Airport or Yoron Port to Okinagu Coast; a guided tour is required to reach Yurigahama from Okinagu Coast
