Hanazono Shrine
From long ago, the shrine located here has held an important Shinto deity for all of Shinjuku. It exists quietly among the shopping malls and eateries lining Shinjuku's downtown streets.
It has such a great vibe when it’s lit up at night.
Every photo turns out amazing, no matter how you shoot it.
Yanagawa River Boating
Yanagawa, also known as the city of water, is located in the south of Fukuoka Prefecture. Here you’ll find old-world streetscapes that still keep the lattice-like waterways from the Edo period. When you’re here, the absolute must-see is the inter-city river boating experience. No matter what season, you’re guaranteed for a fun and relaxing time as the boat captain serenades and shares stories around the area.
The scenery along the canal is really soothing. The pace is genuinely slow, and it totally feels like a small town in Japan.
Universal Studios Japan
Universal Studios Japan, nicknamed “USJ”, is a large-scale theme park with entertainment for everyone, both children and adults alike. The park is separated into different areas, each with a different theme from popular titles across the world.
After walking around all day, your legs will be shot.
Overall it’s like: “I’m exhausted, but I’m super satisfied after it’s over.”
ASTY Kyoto
Located both inside and outside the Tokaido Shinkansen gates at Kyoto Station, ASTY Kyoto is a convenient commercial complex filled with souvenir shops and restaurants-perfect for a stop before or after your trip. From traditional Kyoto sweets and crafts to bento boxes and light meals ideal for eating on the train, the facility offers a full lineup of Kyoto-style delights.
ASTY Kyoto is one of those places where you end up staying two extra hours, even if you were just passing through to transfer trains. 😆
Funawa's Imo Yokan
Funawa, a long-established Japanese confectionery shop founded in 1902, is renowned for its signature product, Imo Yokan (sweet potato jelly). The story of Imo Yokan began when founder Kazusuke Kobayashi, originally a sweet potato wholesaler in Tokyo's Asakusa Kotobuki district, developed this confection as an affordable alternative to the expensive traditional yokan of that time. Today, Funawa’s Imo Yokan is known nationwide as an iconic Tokyo specialty.
No complicated flavors here—just the pure, natural sweetness of sweet potato. The texture is super clean and smooth.
Samurai Residences in Kakunodate
In Kakunodate, part of the city of Semboku in Akita Prefecture, exists rows of old houses first attributed to the Ashina family in the early Edo period (around year 1620), that later flourished under the castle town of the Satake-Kita family. This district has been designated as protected in an effort to conserve traditional buildings.
Walking down the streets of Kakunodate feels like stepping back into the Edo period.
Todaiji Temple
In the Nara period (710-794), Emperor Shomu had the Rushana Daibutsu (Great Buddha) built at his request, and a memorial service was held in 752. This temple is one of the representative temples of Nara. It took nearly 40 years to build the temple complex.
The Great Buddha statue is absolutely massive. You can really take your time admiring it.
Tokyo DisneySea
Tokyo DisneySea is the Tokyo Disney Resort run destination that’s directly connected to Tokyo Disneyland.
I recommend getting a FastPass first, or you'll end up spending the whole day waiting in line.