Laguna Sights and Landmarks Guide, Philippines

Nestled in the southern shores of Laguna de Bay, Laguna provides travelers an adventure in some of the most beautiful natural attractions in the Philippines.

Named after the beautiful goddess Maria Makiling, Mt. Makiling is one of the natural wonders of Laguna. A dormant volcano shrouded in legend and mystery, it is one of the many must see destinations for mountaineers and trekkers alike. The mountain is said to be shaped in the reclining position of the beautiful goddess.

Ride the rapids on your way to view Pagsanjan falls or Magdapio falls. This makes for an exciting time as you speed about in narrow canoes poled by local native guides up swift moving waters. Don’t forget to bring your camera as the river and the majestic Pagsanjan waterfalls provide a wonderful photo opportunity.

Take a dip in the hot springs in the Hidden Valley Hot Springs in Caluan and let yourself relax in its soothing therapeutic waters.

For history buffs, Laguna offers a wide range of attractions to visit. One can visit the home of the country’s national hero Dr. Jose Rizal in Calamba. Here you can find many wonderfully preserved antiques owned by the Rizal family from four poster beds to old fashioned chamber pots.

If you are one of those World War II history enthusiasts, you must see the site where General Masaharu Homma and General Tomoyuki Yamashita were executed in the Homa - Yamashita shrine in Los Banos. This was previously the site of the College of Agriculture and was turned into a prisoners’ camp during the war. It was later on burned by the Japanese after the Americans returned to liberate the Philippines, only the gym and Baker Hall were left standing. After the end of the Second World War, Homma and Yamshita, the Japanese commanders during the war, were tried and executed near the Economic Gardens.

Visit Pinagbayanan Crematorium in Pila, which is reported to be the oldest crematorium in the country. The old Nagcarlan Underground Cemetery is also another great tourist attraction for those who are looking for something out of the ordinary.

Looking for a chance to bring something of Laguna home with you? Drop by Paete’s Woodcarvings where you can purchase some of the famous woodcarvings of Laguna. You can see a wide array of items to choose from modern artistic designs to more traditional religious symbols.

Kids and adults alike would enjoy the country’s first theme park located in Sta. Rosa, Laguna. It has great rides and spectacular attractions that the whole family can enjoy. An awesome fireworks display happens every night just before closing time.

Thrill seekers can visit Lake Caliraya where one can go boating and sailing. For the more athletically inclined, wind surfing and water skiing shops can also be found here. Why not bring the fisherman out in you and go game fishing!

Laguna is the place to visit whether you are looking for a wild adventure or a trip down history.