While Tokyo boasts famous gardens like Shinjuku Gyoen and Hamarikyu, Rikugien Garden remains a quiet masterpiece, often overlooked by tourists. Built in 1702 for a feudal lord, this Edo-period strolling garden is a living poem—each landscape designed to evoke classical Japanese literature. With its winding paths, tranquil ponds, and meticulously pruned trees, Rikugien offers a serene escape where visitors can experience old-world Tokyo at its finest. A Garden Designed Like a Waka Poem Rikugien (whose name means “Six Poems Garden”) was commissioned by Yanagisawa Yoshiyasu, a close confidant of the fifth Tokugawa shogun. Its design was inspired by 88 scenes from famous waka poetry, with each turn of the path revealing a new “verse” … 続きを読む

(Image by Guilhem Vellut via https://www.flickr.com/photos/o_0/9164904279/) Nestled quietly in the bustling metropolis of Tokyo is a serene oasis largely undiscovered by tourists—Gokoku-ji Temple. Located in the Bunkyo ward, this hidden gem offers a peaceful retreat with lush gardens, historical significance, and a tranquil atmosphere that feels worlds away from the city’s chaos. Unlike the more famous temples like Senso-ji or Meiji Shrine, Gokoku-ji is a quiet sanctuary where visitors can reflect, appreciate traditional architecture, and learn about Japanese history. For travelers looking to explore Tokyo beyond the usual tourist hotspots, Gokoku-ji provides a unique and enriching cultural experience. A Temple with a Royal Legacy Gokoku-ji Temple has a fascinating history … 続きを読む

(Image by nakashi via https://www.flickr.com/photos/nakashi/11925694744/) Amid the vibrant energy and towering skyline of Tokyo lies Kiyosumi Teien Garden, a serene oasis that offers a peaceful escape from the city’s fast-paced lifestyle. Located in the Koto ward, this traditional Japanese garden is a hidden gem, perfect for tourists seeking a glimpse into Japan’s exquisite landscaping artistry and its harmonious blend of nature and culture. For visitors exploring Tokyo, Kiyosumi Teien provides an unforgettable experience of tranquility, beauty, and history. A Garden with Historical Roots Kiyosumi Teien’s origins trace back to the Edo period (1603–1868) when the land was privately owned by a wealthy merchant. During the Meiji era (1868–1912), the site … 続きを読む

(Image by bethom33 via https://www.flickr.com/photos/92475647@N05/42011921535/) Tokyo is a city of contrasts, where ancient traditions blend seamlessly with cutting-edge modernity. Amid its towering skyscrapers and bustling streets lies Hie Shrine, a serene oasis that offers visitors a glimpse into Japan’s spiritual heritage. Tucked away in Akasaka, Hie Shrine is a Shinto sanctuary that combines history, culture, and stunning architecture. For those planning a trip to Japan, this shrine is a must-visit destination that provides a peaceful retreat from the urban frenzy. A Shrine with Historical Roots Hie Shrine’s origins date back to the Kamakura period (1185–1333), though its current location and structure have evolved over centuries. Initially built on the grounds … 続きを読む

(Image by Guilhem Vellut via https://www.flickr.com/photos/o_0/13593961833/) In Tokyo’s historic Fukagawa district lies Fukagawa Fudo-do Temple, a Buddhist sanctuary blending spiritual tradition with modern architecture. Known for its dramatic goma fire ritual, this temple offers a unique experience for travelers seeking a deeper cultural connection in Japan. It’s an often-overlooked gem for first-time visitors, combining ancient rituals, beautiful scenery, and a tranquil atmosphere for an immersive introduction to Japanese spirituality. History and Significance of Fukagawa Fudo-do Founded in 1703, Fukagawa Fudo-do Temple is a branch of Naritasan Shinshoji Temple in Chiba Prefecture, dedicated to Fudo Myo-o, the Buddhist deity of protection and wisdom. Fudo Myo-o is an intense, wrathful figure whose … 続きを読む

(Image by Manish Prabhune via https://www.flickr.com/photos/suzumenonamida/8484823949/) Nestled in Tokyo’s Koto Ward lies Kameido Tenjin Shrine, a tranquil and picturesque destination that feels worlds away from the city’s bustling streets. Known for its vibrant seasonal displays and rich historical significance, Kameido Tenjin Shrine offers visitors a unique and immersive experience that combines natural beauty with spiritual tradition. While it may not be as widely known as Meiji Shrine or Senso-ji Temple, Kameido Tenjin is one of Tokyo’s true hidden gems, especially popular with locals and those in-the-know tourists seeking a more intimate experience. This historic shrine is a place where visitors can admire stunning wisteria blooms in spring, colourful maple trees … 続きを読む

(Image by Guilhem Vellut via https://www.flickr.com/photos/o_0/11168390213/) In the midst of Tokyo’s urban sprawl, where modern skyscrapers dominate the skyline and busy streets hum with energy, there lies a hidden sanctuary of peace and natural beauty—Koishikawa Korakuen Garden. Tucked away near the Tokyo Dome in Bunkyo Ward, this exquisite landscape garden is one of the city’s oldest and most beautiful traditional gardens, offering visitors a glimpse into Japan’s Edo-period artistry and design. While it may not be as famous as other tourist spots in Tokyo, Koishikawa Korakuen Garden is a hidden gem that provides a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of the city. Whether you are a nature lover, … 続きを読む

(Image by Domenico Convertini via https://www.flickr.com/photos/con4tini/48846683827/) Tokyo is a city of contrasts, where tradition meets modernity at every corner. Amidst its bustling streets and towering skyscrapers, there are pockets of culture that transport visitors back to the Edo period, a time when Japan was closed off from the world and its unique art forms flourished. One such place is the Sumida Hokusai Museum, dedicated to the life and work of one of Japan’s most famous and influential artists, Katsushika Hokusai. A Tribute to Hokusai in His Hometown The Sumida Hokusai Museum is located in the Ryogoku district of Sumida Ward, an area closely associated with Hokusai himself. Born in 1760, … 続きを読む

(Image by Pierre Blaché via https://www.flickr.com/photos/pierre9x6/48807206678/) Tokyo, a city where the ancient and the modern seamlessly blend, offers a plethora of historical sites that draw tourists from around the world. Among these, Yasukuni Shrine stands out not only for its serene beauty and rich history but also for the controversy that surrounds it. For those interested in exploring Japan’s complex past, a visit to Yasukuni Shrine provides an insightful and thought-provoking experience. Yasukuni Shrine, situated in the heart of Tokyo, is easily accessible from the Kudanshita Station. Established in 1869, the shrine was built to commemorate those who died in service of Japan. It enshrines the spirits of approximately 2.5 … 続きを読む

A Glimpse into Akihabara: The Heart of Otaku Culture Akihabara, affectionately known as “Electric Town,” is the epicentre of otaku culture in Tokyo. Famous for its bustling streets lined with electronic stores, arcades, and specialty shops, Akihabara is a paradise for anime and manga fans. Among its many attractions, the Mandarake Complex stands tall as a beacon for those seeking the best in anime and manga collectibles. Discovering Mandarake Complex (Image by street viewer via https://www.flickr.com/photos/streetviewer/4481136197/) Located a short walk from Akihabara Station, the Mandarake Complex is a multi-story building dedicated entirely to anime, manga, and pop culture merchandise. Founded in 1980 by manga artist Masuzo Furukawa, Mandarake has grown … 続きを読む