Destinations
Miyagi… for when travel restrictions are lifted
Throughout the region, there are a vast array of remote places that provide travelers with a serene escape from the crowded cities. Here are some attractions and destinations to dream about from afar, until travel restrictions are lifted.
Known as the “land of contrasts,” Miyagi Prefecture in northern Japan gets this name from its unique blend of urban areas and natural attractions. Throughout the region, there are a vast array of remote places that provide travelers with a serene escape from the crowded cities. Below are some attractions and destinations to dream about from afar, until travel restrictions are lifted.
Travelers looking for a quick escape from the cities can find one in Akiu, home to Rairaikyo Gorge. The one-kilometer nature trail is free and easy to access. The scenic gorge features a variety of rock formations and flowers, and offers access to Nozoki Bridge, also known as the Lover’s Sanctuary. The remote spot has a heart-shaped hole that naturally formed in the gorge wall. After it rains, the heart is filled with water and locals believe you can see your future lover’s reflection in the water.
Right near the gorge is Hotel Zuiho, an upscale and modern hot springs hotel with numerous baths at different temperatures. The city of Osaki also has a variety of natural attractions, such as Naruko-kyo Gorge. To experience these attractions from home, Osaki has its own Youtube channel featuring in-depth videos of many local attractions.
The sacred Oshima Island in Matsushima Bay was famous decades ago, regarded as a special place of spiritual power, and home to numerous natural attractions. In the 11th century, the island became home to poets and monks, including the famed pilgrim Kenbutsu Shonin, a monk who was said to have magical powers, including the ability to fly. In 1119, Emperor Toba heard of these legends and gifted the island 1,000 pine trees — which is believed to be the origin of the name of the bay of “Matsushima,” meaning “pine tree island.” Today, the island is shrouded in mystery and still contains historical landmarks and artifacts for visitors to explore.
A short trip from the island to the Onikobe Jigokudani Nature Trail in Northern Miyagi offers a very different view. This volcanic area, whose name translates to “demon neck,” is home to erupting geysers that momentarily disrupt the solitude and tranquility of the trail. Also nearby are natural hot springs, and travelers looking to spend the night can camp out at the Fukiage Kogen Campground.
Miyagi is also known for its variety of remote onsens, ideal for travelers looking for wellness options. The Sakunami Ichinobo is a ryokan that sits among the lush forestry in the valleys of the prefecture’s Sendai region. Reflecting the natural beauty of the surrounding nature, the Sakunami Ichinobo features an outdoor pool, sun deck and eight hot spring baths from three natural geothermal sources, including the nearby Hirosegawa River. Gaga Onsen of Mount Zao is also incredibly remote and has been a family operation since 1875. The ryokan boasts a rustic wooden private open-air bath overlooking the river that guests can reserve free of charge. For even more privacy, the Komakusa Suite includes its own in-room hot spring bath.
Sporty travelers looking to explore the land and see as many sites as possible can mountain bike through the Mount Zao Highlands. The Zao Echo Line is the best way to take in the natural beauty of the surrounding mountains and is considered the most scenic route around Mount Zao. The nearly 16-mile trail traverses through the mountainous border between Miyagi and Yamagata Prefecture. Bike riders and hikers can follow this trail up and over Mount Zao, eventually ending at the hot springs of Kaminoyama Onsen in Yamagata. Beautiful waterfalls, spiritual sites and Okama Crater, the crown jewel of Mount Zao, are waiting for those who choose this path.
For a way to experience cycling in Miyagi from home, people can check out this video on cycling through Matsushima Bay and this one in Akiu.
Travelers who prefer the beach instead of mountains can hike the Michinoku Coastal Trail, a trekking route running from Fukushima to Aomori Prefecture that is over 500 miles long. Hikers who travel through Miyagi are bound to encounter some of the prefecture’s most iconic remote and scenic spots, such as Matsushima Bay and Sanriku Coast. Travelers at home can still experience the trail through this online guide that shows the trail in its entirety.
For more information on Miyagi, visit http://www.visitmiyagi.com.
Destinations
Going Chinese in Pulilan, Bulacan
Craving for #chinesefood in #Bulacan? We tried the offerings of Lee Foo Panciteria #Pulilan, and we’re on the fence here (yes if no choice, no if you can go elsewhere).
We happened to be in Pulilan in Bulacan, and I had pancit craving. As if on cue, we passed by Lee Foo Panciteria Pulilan, which – after we Google-checked – is supposedly one of the more frequently-visited Chinese restos in these parts of the province, so… of course we checked.
@outragemag Craving for #chinesefood in #Bulacan? We tried the offerings of Lee Foo Panciteria #Pulilan ♬ original sound – Outrage Magazine
Una, this place is really, REALLY easy to find. Located along the Pulilan Regional Road in Barangay Cut-cot in Pulilan, this is right in the middle of the municipality.
Ikalawa, the resto is actually divided into three parts: one side is for those with reservations, another part is for walk-in diners, and another part is for events. If/when the resto isn’t full, only the main part (middle one) is kept open.
No, this isn’t some fancy resto. More like an airconditioned karinderya, complete with wooden tables and plastic chairs. Look-wise, it wasn’t dirty naman when we were there, so that’s a plus.
Ikatlo, the workers were friendly naman… and they moved fast – e.g. while waiting for our orders, we were given must-check peanuts, and since we finished what we got fast, our waitress was more than happy to accommodate us.
Ika-apat, now… how was the food?
The house specialty, the Lee Foo Chicken (₱265 for half, ₱495 for whole), looked like fried chicken with ketchup. Okay… the breading was okay since it didn’t overpower the meat. The chicken, too, was properly cooked, and it wasn’t dry. But it was tasteless overall; so the ketchup taste is what stays with you.
The Pancit Canton Bihon (₱255) had thin pancit noodles, almost as thin as the bihon. It didn’t have lots of sahog; instead, you’d notice the extenders (like kikiam, and so on). I like good pancit, I swear… but this isn’t one of them, sorry.
The weirdly-wrapped Hakaw (₱155) was small, so it was bitin.
And then there’s the Siomai Steam (₱155), which was, in a word, weird. The size was good, similar to those ₱10 siomais. But the way this was prepared was weird for us – e.g. like the meat was overwatered, and having a hard time staying solid, so that it was smudgy, and disintegrated in the mouth even without chewing. I suppose that, at least, it wasn’t disgusting taste-wise.
Lee Foo Panciteria Pulilan is, we believe, popular. Like President in Chinatown, or a branch of David’s in some mall. To each his or her own nga naman. But for us, we’re off to look for other Chinese restos na muna as we head out in search of more lafangan venues.
Lee Foo Panciteria Pulilan is located at 159 Barangay Cut-cot, Pulilan, 3005 Bulacan Province. For more information, contact 0925 800 0168, or email leefoopanciteria@yahoo.com.
Travel
Treacherous beauty: Hiking at South Stack Lighthouse in Wales
#Lighthouse fever in #Holyhead, #anglesey via the #SouthStackLighthouse, as checked during this #LGBT trip to #Wales.
Yes, tech has made many lighthouses redundant. Not that they’re no longer relevant. But navigation-wise, we know we have more advanced solutions. Which, perhaps not surprisingly, led to the reconfiguration of many of them.
In Holyhead, Anglesey in Wales, introducing the South Stack Lighthouse.
@outragemag #Lighthouse fever in #Holyhead, #anglesey via the #SouthStackLighthouse, as checked during this #LGBT trip to #Wales ♬ original sound – Outrage Magazine
Una, you’d need a ride to be there. Some use private cars, as we did; others join tours; and others cycle to the place.
Ikalawa, what’s there?
The lighthouse itself is located on a small, rocky island off Holyhead. From afar, it looks like someone’s grand home; mansion-like. Accessible siya after you descend down 400 steep steps.
What will you see while there?
- the former lighthouse engine room
- the top of the lighthouse
- South Stack is also home to breeding seabirds including guillemots, razorbills and puffins
Here’s an FYI: seasonal lang siya bukas.
This is a must-check for lighthouse lovers, of course. Historic, it was built in 1809 by Trinity House from the design of Daniel Alexander. 91-foot tall, it used to allow safe passage for ships on the Dublin–Holyhead–Liverpool sea route.
Another FYI: It is allegedly haunted, and has been visited by a team from “Most Haunted”.
The area housing the lighthouse is, itself, worth checking. There are trails for hikers or joggers or cyclists; though the same could be enjoyed by those who are there only to look for good shots.
Check when you’re in the area… even if you just pass by. Nice siya, promise.
But off we go for more LGBTQIA+ rampa…
Travel
Enjoying nature via trail hiking in Wales
Enjoying nature via #trail #hiking at #Snowdonia #SnowdoniaSlateTrail during one #LGBT visit in #Gwynedd, #Wales.
When in Bangor, you’d be told often that among the best things to do is to hike. And among the must-check is the Snowdonia Slate Trail, which links the old slate-quarrying communities of Eryri/Snowdonia.
So… ayan na nga, even without the right outfit for hiking, but ayaw ma-miss ang chance to check the area, off we went.
@outragemag Enjoying nature via #trail #hiking at #Snowdonia #SnowdoniaSlateTrail during one #LGBT visit in #Gwynedd, #Wales ♬ original sound – Outrage Magazine
Una, the circular route starts near Bangor/Porth Penrhyn. And you need a car or whatever to get to the starting point.
Ikalawa, the trail isn’t just for hiking. It’s also for biking or walking dogs. So you’d be sharing the 133-kilometer long trail with others.
Ikatlo, what’s there?
Mountains built by remnants from quarry sites, to start.
So… Gwynedd used to be known for slate quarrying, and among the biggest players is Penrhyn Quarry which is near Gwynedd, part of The Slate Landscape of Northwest Wales, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Now… with slate quarrying, around 75% of extracted material are inferior in quality, called overburden, and so becoming mineral waste. Here, they’re now mountains.
But the trail also shows views typically associated with Wales – e.g. rolling hills that go on forever, rock fences, sheep farms, canals with flowing water… and more.
Usually, sa matatag, people hike the Snowdonia Slate Trail for up to seven days, passing through Bethesda, Llanberis, and so on. But for others… it’s but an opportunity to commune with nature, in a way, while taking those must-have shots.
But we’re off for more LGBTQIA+ discoveries…
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