Lake Ashinoko
The lake is said to have been created about 3100 years ago when a phreatic explosion caused by volcanic activity caused the sediment from a large collapsed mountain to dam the river. In fact, most of the water is rainwater rather than spring water, which is the source of the river. It is a huge puddle of water.
I stopped by while passing through. It was cloudy so I couldn't see Mt. Fuji, but the location was really pleasant! I was also happy to find free parking!
Ueno Park
Ueno Park, officially known as "Ueno Onshi Park," is located in Taito Ward, Tokyo. Managed by the Tokyo Metropolitan Construction Bureau, the park spans an impressive area of 530,000 square meters and has a rich history.
It was cloudy, so the cherry blossoms didn't really pop—kind of a letdown! I'd love to come back on a sunny day.
Since it was a weekday, there weren't many people doing hanami, so it was easy to take photos. That was a plus!
Yanaka Ginza
After looking at Yanaka Cemetery on your left and keep going up on a gentle ascent, the Gotenzaka, you will find stairs called “the Yuyake-dandan”. The stairs are landmarks of Yanaka, which is a loved place because it is famous for its beautiful sunset. When going down the stairs, the Yanaka Ginza spreads in front of you.
It's just a few minutes' walk from JR Nippori Station. One of the best things to do is stroll around the souvenir shops and grab some croquettes or menchi katsu from the deli shops to snack on as you go!
Kominato Railway
The railroad runs 39.1 kilometers north-south through the center of the Boso Peninsula, connecting Goi Station, which is linked to the JR Uchibo Line, to the terminus at Kazusa-Nakano Station. Take a nostalgic train ride on the KiHa 200 series, a railroad fan’s favorite, while admiring the peaceful countryside scenery along the line.
So nostalgic! The atmosphere here is just amazing!
Yoro Valley
This valley was formed by the Yoro River and sits at the very center of the Boso Peninsula in Chiba Prefecture. Located just 2 hours from Tokyo, this lush, nature escape in Chiba is also home to many different hot springs. The climate is generally mild, making it a great hiking destination in winter, and also earning the title “the latest autumn leaves in Kanto”, as they come into full color from late November to early December.
I stopped by while touring the hand-dug tunnels of the Boso Peninsula. There’s a walking path along the valley, so it’s a great spot for a stroll!
Kaneshichi Suisan
Kaneshichi Suisan always offers only seasonal fish, the brightness of color proving its freshness. Springtime begins with snapper and bonito from the nearby ports of Kamogawa and Emi, while in the summer sea bass and abalone are sold, directly shipped from the port.
I splurged and got the special sashimi set! I had my fill of super fresh and delicious seafood. The selection changes with the seasons, so I definitely want to come back again and again. I wanted to buy some seafood to take home as a souvenir, but I didn't bring a cooler—guess I'll have to look forward to that next time!
[Closed Down]Shinjuku Alta
This prominent commercial facility, opened in 1980, is an ideal meeting place in Shinjuku. It is a well-known building, as it was once the recording studio for the TV program “You Can Laugh,” broadcast for 32 years until 2014.
新宿駅からすぐなので待ち合わせ場所として便利。駅から地下道でも通じているので雨の日に濡れずに到着できるのも良い点。
Tokyu Kabukicho Tower
Within a month of its grand opening in April 2023, the complex welcomed over a million visitors, quickly establishing itself as the new icon of Kabukicho. The building boasts 48 floors above ground, 5 below, and stands tall at 225 meters. The exterior design, inspired by fountains, wraps this enormous entertainment hub crafted around the concept of "mastering one's passions."
Maybe because I went on a weekday afternoon, the restaurants were almost empty. With all the flashy decor, it actually felt a bit lonely—maybe it was just me.
On the other hand, the movie theater was fantastic! The seats are super spacious and luxurious, really comfortable. The sound system is top-notch, and drinks and popcorn are included. Even though the price is a bit high, it was totally worth it!
Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building Observation Deck
The Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building, located in Shinjuku, is Tokyo’s centralized administration complex, comprised of three buildings: the First Main Office Building, the Second Main Office Building, and the Metropolitan Assembly Building. The First Main Office Building is home to a 45th floor Observation Deck, which is accessible by dedicated elevator on the 1st floor. In just 55 seconds the dedicated elevator will whisk you into the skies, to a height of 202 meters above ground and the sprawling view of Tokyo below.
The Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building's observation deck is free to enter. You can really enjoy Tokyo's night view from here. I especially recommend going after it rains in winter when the air is clear! Weekday nights are also great. Since people in Tokyo work late, the city stays bright. Shoutout to everyone working hard out there!!
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.
A big shrine suddenly appears in the middle of Shinjuku’s busy streets. The bright red torii gate and main hall really stand out. It's also famous for bringing good luck in the performing arts. So, here's hoping I get more talented! (Leaving it up to fate)