Sensoji Temple
This iconic destination in Asakusa sees as many as 30 million visitors each year. It stands as a well-loved mainstay in Tokyo, all while hosting a number of annual traditions like the first temple visit at New Years, Setsubun and more across the year.
The five-story pagoda inside Sensoji Temple is my favorite part of the architecture.
GOTEMBA PREMIUM OUTLETS
GOTEMBA PREMIUM OUTLETS was established in 2000 and is the largest outlet mall in Japan. It is easily accessible from famous tourist spots such as Hakone, Izu, and Mt. Fuji, and is a popular spot to stop by during sightseeing.
Shopping at an outlet in Japan is a must-do for every trip!
Oboke and Koboke
“Oboke Koboke” is an about 8km-long canyon, created over 200 million years by the rapids of the Yoshino River that passes through the Shikoku Mountains, and the area has beautiful sculpturesque landscapes.
This is one of Japan's three great hidden spots. The canyon's unique rock formations are truly impressive. The restaurant owner was super friendly and fun—she even greeted us in Taiwanese when she found out we were from Taiwan. When we left, she got on our tour bus to sing and say goodbye. We really felt her warmth and hospitality.
Nihon Minka-en, Kawasaki Municipal Japan Outdoor Folk House Museum
Opened in 1967, Kawasaki City is an outdoor museum that represents ancient Japanese homes. Twenty-five buildings, including private houses from the Edo period, have been relocated here and displayed, all designated as Japanese cultural heritage.
Each house has its own unique style, reflecting the different ways people lived in various regions. Every day, two or three houses are open for visitors to go inside. I also appreciated that they offer audio guides in both Chinese and English, which helped us understand early Japanese life even better.
Naka-Ikebukuro Park
Naka-Ikebukuro Park is an approx. 1,800㎡ park located in the front yard of the “Hareza Ikebukuro” theatre hall. It’s a stone-paved open space that hosts a full range of events.
After the renovations, it's much cleaner and fresher than before.