(Image by Steven Byles via https://www.flickr.com/photos/sjbyles/52558975265/) When one thinks of Tokyo, images of towering skyscrapers, bustling streets, and neon lights often come to mind. Yet, amidst the urban frenzy, Tokyo harbours secret pockets of tranquillity and natural beauty. Todoroki Valley, nestled in the Setagaya ward of Tokyo, stands as one such hidden gem, offering visitors a serene escape from the city’s vibrant chaos. A Natural Haven in the Heart of Tokyo Todoroki Valley, also known as Todoroki Keikoku in Japanese, is a picturesque walking trail that meanders along a small river, flanked by lush greenery and cherry blossoms. Its name “Todoroki” originates from the Todoroki Fudo Temple, which stands at … 続きを読む

(Image by doronko via https://www.flickr.com/photos/can10kon10/4075152396/) Nestled amidst the lush mountains of Takao, just outside the bustling city of Tokyo, lies Yakuo-in Temple. This hidden gem offers visitors a serene escape from the urban chaos, providing a tranquil retreat steeped in rich history and spiritual significance. With its picturesque surroundings, traditional architecture, and a soothing atmosphere, Yakuo-in Temple stands as a testament to the enduring allure of Japanese Buddhism. Let us delve into the temple’s intriguing history and explore the myriad of things to see and do within its sacred grounds. A History Rooted in Faith Yakuo-in Temple traces its origins back to the 8th century, during the early days of … 続きを読む

(Image by nakashi via https://www.flickr.com/photos/nakashi/40984830421/) Nestled in the charming Chofu district of Tokyo, away from the bustling city centre, lies the serene and historic Jindaiji Temple. Known for its tranquil atmosphere, lush surroundings, and rich cultural heritage, Jindaiji Temple offers visitors a delightful escape from the urban frenzy. In this article, we will embark on a journey through the history of Jindaiji Temple and explore the attractions and experiences that await tourists within its sacred grounds. A Glimpse into History: Jindaiji Temple holds a significant place in Tokyo’s history, with origins dating back over 1,300 years. According to legend, it was established in 733 AD by the monk Gyoki on … 続きを読む

(Image by DocChewbacca via https://www.flickr.com/photos/st3f4n/2792381370/) Tokyo Joypolis is an indoor amusement park located in the Odaiba area of Tokyo. It features a wide range of attractions, including virtual reality rides, arcade games, and interactive experiences that are perfect for visitors of all ages. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at Tokyo Joypolis, including a brief description of some of the best rides and attractions in the park. Tokyo Joypolis is a popular destination for both tourists and locals in Tokyo, offering a unique experience that combines cutting-edge technology and entertainment. The park is divided into several themed zones, each with its own set of attractions and experiences. Here’s … 続きを読む

(Image by David Pursehouse via https://www.flickr.com/photos/mdid/3895656935/) Sengakuji Temple is not only a historical site, but also a religious one. It belongs to the Soto sect of Zen Buddhism and is dedicated to the Bodhisattva Kannon, the goddess of mercy. The temple is an important place of worship for the local community and offers various religious services, such as morning meditation, sutra chanting, and zazen (seated meditation). The temple also has a unique feature that visitors may not immediately notice. On the walls of the temple’s main hall, there are dozens of tiny plaques with inscriptions that look like graffiti. These plaques are called ema and are used for making wishes. … 続きを読む

(Image by Guilhem Vellut via https://www.flickr.com/photos/o_0/13593201395/ Located in the Kita ward of northern Tokyo near Oji station, Asukayama Park is a public green space that offers a picturesque landscape featuring approximately 600 Japanese cherry trees, making it a popular destination among Japanese people. While foreign tourists tend to favour parks such as Ueno or Yoyogi, Asukayama offers a great alternative for experiencing the local festive atmosphere during the cherry blossom season in early spring. Dating back to the early 18th century, Asukayama Park was established as a pleasure ground for the Edokko, the inhabitants of Edo, by Yoshimune Tokugawa, the eighth shogun of the Edo period. By 1720, the park … 続きを読む

(Image by hiroaki maeda via https://www.flickr.com/photos/torisan3500/3190982088/) Ginza is one of Tokyo’s prime areas for glitzy shopping and dining, uniting some of the world’s most well-known brands. In Ginza’s main street, you will find Japan’s most famous stationery specialty store: Itoya. The shop offers a vast, wonderful selection of Japanese and international brands, with dozens of original stationery items that are both stylish and functional. Whether you’re a die-hard stationery fan and seek to enrich your arsenal of pens and paper or you’re simply looking for a fun souvenir, Itoya is a must-visit in any case. We will guide you through each of the 12 themed floors and showcase highlights and … 続きを読む

(Image by t-mizo via https://www.flickr.com/photos/tmizo/8344508921/) Have you ever heard “Monjayaki”? If you visit Tokyo, Monjayaki is a food delicacy that you should definitely try! While Tokyo’s monjayaki is not as well-known abroad as Osaka’s okonomiyaki, the dish inspires heated regional rivalries in Japan. Residents of the two cities frequently fight over which is better. If you have yet to try monjayaki, Tsukishima Monja Street is worth a visit. Though the dish itself might not look particularly tasty, take a bite, and you’ll quickly realise why monjayaki is so popular in the area! The area is also known as the Mecca of Monjayaki! (Image by nakashi via https://www.flickr.com/photos/nakashi/31442304074/) Tsukishima Monja Street … 続きを読む

(Image by elminium via https://www.flickr.com/photos/lumen850/5460873303/) Kanda Myojin Shrine has been historically revered by Tokyo’s residents as the “guardian deity of Edo”. Contrasting the nearby electric neighbourhood of Akihabara, Kanda Myojin is a tranquil sanctuary of a shrine. Over its history dating over 1,300 years ago, Kanda Myojin Shrine has seen the worship of many samurai warriors and daimyo warlords. The breathtaking vermillion architecture is a symbol of this shrine, which survived both the Great Kanto Earthquake and Tokyo Air Raids. History of Kanda Myojin Shrine Kanda Myojin Shrine was founded in 730 near present-day Otemachi and has a history of nearly 1,300 years. It was moved to the current location … 続きを読む