【講師コラム】マリア講師No.11～What is your recommendation of the sightseeing spots in the Philippines?～

The Philippines, being an archipelago of more than 7,000 islands, is blessed with natural wonders and remarkable tourist attractions that capture the hearts of local and foreign travelers. From white sandy beaches to lush rainforests, our country has a lot to offer. Among the various sightseeing spots in the Philippines, I will recommend two must-see destinations – one that I’ve been to before and one that I dream of seeing, the Hinatuan Enchanted River and the Batad Rice Terraces.

Hinatuan Enchanted River is a stunningly beautiful natural wonder located in the province of Surigao del Sur, Philippines. It is known for its striking blue, crystal-clear waters. The water in the river is so clear that you can see the bottom of the riverbed, the variety of fish, and the different shades of blue water. I went there last year and it was really enchanting. It was long the long ride. It is called ‘enchanted’ because according to the local legend, the river is guarded by the enchantress Diwata, who protects the natural beauty of the river and owns all the fish living in it. Others also believe that the Enchanted River is a portal to another dimension, which is why visitors are not allowed to swim in the river at night. But don’t be scared, it’s only a legend. Overall, Hinatuan Enchanted River is surely a breathtaking natural wonder that showcases the beauty of the Philippines. I want to go there again, you should too!

On the other hand, Batad Rice Terraces, located in the Cordillera mountains in northern Luzon, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is rice grown on terraces that stretches to the heavens. Seeing its picture always mesmerizes me, so it has been my dream to hike there. It has a breathtaking view of the surrounding mountains and the rice fields. The rice terraces, which were built 2,000 years ago, are a testament to the skill and hard work of the Ifugao people who built them. For the Ifugao people, the terraces are a symbol of their connection to the land and their deep respect for nature. The rice that is grown here is not just a source of food, but also a source of spiritual and cultural identity.

In conclusion, Hinatuan Enchanted River and Batad Rice Terraces are two remarkable sightseeing spots that offer a chance to experience the enchantment of the Philippines. There are more magnificent tourists spots that Philippines has to offer and I hope you can experience them too!