Namba Yasaka Shrine
”Namba Yasaka Shrine”, located in the Namba area of Minami in Osaka, is a historic shrine said to have been founded during the reign of Emperor Nintoku (313-399).
Namba Yasaka Shrine is known for its huge lion head hall, and its appearance is truly striking. It symbolizes good fortune and protection from evil. The shrine has a quiet, peaceful atmosphere and is full of character and cultural charm. It’s a popular place to visit in Osaka and a favorite photo spot.
Odaiba Statue of Liberty
The Statue of Liberty in Odaiba, standing against the backdrop of the Rainbow Bridge, symbolizes the friendship between Japan and France. Initially brought to Odaiba from Paris in 1998 as a temporary exhibit, the site continues to draw immense fandom to this day. With official permission from the city of Paris, it was permanently installed in 2000.
Odaiba is a popular waterfront spot in Tokyo, with well-known landmarks like the Statue of Liberty and Rainbow Bridge. It combines shopping, food, entertainment, and ocean views. It’s great for a relaxing stroll during the day, and at night the lights are gorgeous, creating a really romantic atmosphere.
DiverCity Tokyo Plaza
Welcomed by the gargantuan 19.7-meter, life-sized Unicorn Gundam statue, DiverCity Tokyo Plaza embodies its concept as a "theatrical urban space," offering a place to play, learn, relax, and just take in each moment of surprise and inspiration. Tantalize all five senses at this unforgettable destination that’s like none ever before.
DiverCity Tokyo Plaza is a popular shopping center in Odaiba, best known for its huge Unicorn Gundam statue. Inside, there are plenty of brands, restaurants, and entertainment options. It’s a great place for shopping, dining, and taking photos, and it’s a popular stop for travelers in Tokyo.
San'en-zan Kodo-in Zojoji Temple
Located at the base of Tokyo Tower is Zojoji, an Omotoyama temple of the Jodo sect of Buddhism. Enshrined in Zojoji's Ankokuden Hall is the hidden black image of Buddha worshipped by Tokugawa Ieyasu, the first shogun of the Edo period. Since he won one battle after after another, visiting this temple is said to increase the chance of victory.
Zojoji Temple is a historic temple with a solemn, dignified atmosphere. The temple and Tokyo Tower complement each other beautifully, creating a unique view. The grounds are quiet and peaceful, full of culture and history. It’s a worthwhile place to visit and pay respects in central Tokyo.
Tokyo Station: Marunouchi Station Building
The construction of Japan’s front gate, Tokyo Station, began in March, 1908 and it was opened in December, 1914. Kingo Tatsuno, the pioneer of modern architecture in Japan, designed it. The steel-framed, brick Marunouchi Station building was burned on the roof and interior in the 1945 air raid.
Tokyo Station blends historic and modern styles, with its elegant and impressive red-brick station building. It’s a major transportation hub in Tokyo. Inside, there are plenty of dining options, souvenir shops, and stores, making it convenient whether you’re taking photos, shopping, or transferring trains. It’s a must-visit landmark when traveling in Tokyo.
Ikuta Shrine
With a history of about 1,800 years, “Ikuta Shrine” is affectionately called “Ikuta-san, the matchmaker” by locals. As a popular power spot, it’s known for bringing good luck in marriage, love, work and health, and has even seen visits from athletes and artists in recent years.
Ikuta Shrine is a well-known historic shrine in Kobe, famous for prayers for good relationships and happiness. The grounds are lush and peaceful, and the red shrine buildings feel solemn and elegant. It’s a calm spot in the middle of the busy city, and well worth visiting for both worship and a stroll.
Chubu Electric Power MIRAI TOWER
The tower is Nagoya’s symbol, built as Nagoya TV Tower for tourism and TV broadcast and completed in 1954. In 2011, TV signals were switched from analog to digital and its function as a consolidated radio tower was ended.
Chubu Electric Power MIRAI TOWER, formerly Nagoya TV Tower, is one of Nagoya’s iconic landmarks. From the observation deck, you can look out over Hisaya-odori Park and the city. The views are wide open during the day, and the lights are beautiful at night. There are also plenty of restaurants and shops nearby, making it well worth a visit.
Shirakawa-go (Historic Village)
Shirakawa-go, a beautiful area where traditional Japanese scenery still exists, is home to the largest number of still-standing traditional “gassho-zukuri” Japanese homes. As of 2016, there are around 100 buildings still standing, both large and small. It is the largest remaining historic settlement in Japan, and it is preserved as a Group of Traditional Buildings in the register of Cultural Properties of Japan.
Shirakawa-go has fairytale-like gassho-zukuri houses, and the scenery is beautiful in every season. The snowy winter views are especially dreamy.
Walking through the village, you can feel its simple rural charm and long history. It’s an unforgettable World Heritage Site.
JR Kanazawa Station
Kanazawa Station, the gateway to Ishikawa, is served by the Hokuriku Shinkansen, which opened in 2015. It connects Tokyo and Kanazawa in about 2 hours and 30 minutes, and serves as the starting point for sightseeing in Kanazawa and the Hokuriku region.
Kanazawa Station has a fresh, distinctive exterior design that perfectly blends tradition and modern style. The famous Tsuzumi-mon Gate is impressive, and it looks even more beautiful when lit up at night.
With plenty of shopping and dining inside, it’s a landmark you shouldn’t miss when visiting Kanazawa.
Kanazawa Castle & Kenrokuen Four Seasons Tale
Known as the residence of the 14th generation of the Maeda family of the Kaga Clan, "Kanazawa Castle", and the large garden "Kenrokuen" constructed in its outer citadel, are representative tourist attractions of Ishikawa and Kanazawa. Kenrokuen is famous as one of the Three Great Gardens of Japan and has been designated as a special place of scenic beauty by the national government.
Kenrokuen is one of Japan’s Three Great Gardens, with scenery that has its own character in every season. The garden design is refined and elegant.
As you stroll through, you can enjoy the beauty of the ponds, old pine trees, and teahouses, and really take in the atmosphere of a traditional Japanese garden. It’s wonderfully refreshing.