Biwako Hotel
This resort hotel stands on the shores of Lake Biwa, just a short walk from Keihan Biwako-hamaotsu Station, and offers lake views throughout the property. It features five types of guest rooms, all overlooking Lake Biwa. Beyond the lake rise Mount Hiei and the Hira Mountains, creating a striking contrast of blue and green. Guests can unwind in this relaxing retreat away from everyday life.
The lake view here is absolutely stunning! You can see the whole Lake Biwa so clearly.
JR Tadami Line
The JR Tadami Line runs for 135,2km between Aizuwakamatsu Station in Fukushima and Koide Station in Niigata. It runs through the Tadami River valley in the deep mountains, providing beautiful seasonal scenery from the train windows, including cherry blossoms in spring, greenery in summer, autumn leaves in autumn, and snow in winter.
Not many people use the Tadami Line,
but it's known as the most beautiful railway in Japan.
Kawagoe Hikawa Shrine
Kawagoe Hikawa Shrine is a historic shrine that is said to have been built around 1500 years ago. The main shrine features elaborate engravings, and it has been designated as a National Important Intangible Folk Cultural Property.
Hikawa Shrine has an ema tunnel, which is a passageway made from wish plaques. Walking through it feels like your wishes will come true.
Togetsukyo Bridge
The bridge was built in the first half of the 9th century during the Heian period (794-1185). It has been washed out many times, but each time it has been rebuilt. It is said that the name was given by Emperor Kameyama in the Kamakura period (1185-1333), as the moon moved across the bridge as if it were crossing over it.
This has always been a fantastic spot for viewing cherry blossoms and autumn leaves. In summer, you can take a yakatabune boat and watch cormorant fishing. It's one of Kyoto's most popular attractions.
Tenryu-ji Temple
This is the head temple of the Tenryuji sect of the RInzai school. It was founded by Ashikaga Takauji in 1339, during the early Muromachi period, in memory of Emperor Go-daigo, with Muso Kokushi (the eminent Zen master Muso Soseki) appointed as founding abbot.
The Sogenchi Garden at Tenryu-ji blends perfectly with the distant Arashiyama scenery, making it feel like one huge garden. The landscape designer did an amazing job.
Sagano Bamboo Grove Trail
The delightful scenery attracted noble families and poets who built their homes in Sagano. Sagano bamboo trail spans about 400m (437 yards) from Nonomiya Shrine, via Tenryuji Temple’s north gate to Okochi Sanso cottage.
Walking toward Tenryuji, the path is filled with people heading to Togetsukyo Bridge. Passing through this dense bamboo grove is really impressive.
Roppongi Hills "Observatory Tokyo City View"
Roppongi Hills features an indoor observation corridor, "Tokyo City View". Tickets can be purchased at the general ticket counter on the third floor, and visitors can then take a dedicated elevator to the 52nd floor.
I didn't know you had to buy an extra ticket to go up to the rooftop. Also, I wasn't too happy with the staff's attitude.
Takashimaya Times Square
Takashimaya Times Square, a large commercial facility that opened in 1996, consists of a main building with a basement level and 14 above-ground floors. The main building centers around Shinjuku Takashimaya and houses Japan's largest Tokyu Hands, Uniqlo, and the electronics retailer Nojima.
There are so many things to buy here, and it's a great place to shop around. Plus, there's a tax-free benefit for foreigners.
Ameyoko Shopping Street
The Ameyoko Shopping Street, affectionately known as "Ameyoko," stretches approximately 500m between JR Ueno Station and JR Okachimachi Station, with around 400 shops lining the street. It features a variety of businesses, including food and confectionery, clothing, general goods, and jewelry stores.
Once the pandemic is over, I definitely want to go check it out!