Ring the 5-foot and 3-ton brass bell for good luck, feed droves of eager carp, ducks and swans in the garden's pond, or just relax in the ambiance of the Byodo-In Temple. However, make sure to visit the 2-ton carved wooden statue of the Buddha sitting placidly inside the replica Temple, hearkening 11th century Uji, Japan.

The picturesque village Niehove stands as a testament to historical ingenuity. Built on a terp, a man-made hill, to outsmart the advancing sea, its layout has remained unchanged for centuries. This former capital of Humsterland is a maze of narrow church paths and red brick houses, arranged in concentric circles around a central, 13th-century Romanesque-Gothic church. Once the only stone structure in Niehove, the church now houses a visitor centre, sharing the village's rich history. This protected site, with its unique street plan and tranquil charm, invites visitors to step back in time.

The International Wooden Shoe Museum in Eelde showcases an unrivalled collection of over 3,000 pairs of clogs and wooden-soled footwear from more than 45 countries, making it the world's most comprehensive exhibit of its kind. The museum, born from the passion of the last clog makers in Eelde and enhanced by significant private collections, also displays a vast array of clog-making tools and machinery. The museum does not open throughout the entire year, so it’s essential to check their website regularly for their schedules.