The view of Zojoji Temple’s main hall framed together with Tokyo Tower feels like a perfect blend of the old and the new, beautifully capturing the character of Tokyo and immediately drawing my attention.
Unlike the lively, bustling tourist atmosphere of Sensoji Temple, Zojoji feels more solemn and tranquil. Its spacious grounds let you slow down and take in the unique charm of past and present existing side by side.
San'en-zan Kodo-in Zojoji Temple | Review by 金己田
Other Reviews by 金己田
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Tokyo Tower
Tokyo Tower was born in 1958. When it was built, Tokyo Tower proudly stood out as the tallest steel tower in the world. At a height of 33 meters, it was taller than the Eiffel Tower in Paris. It is located in Minato Ward in the center of Tokyo. Take in sweeping views of the city from the observation deck. Currently under renovation, it is always changing.
It’s not my first time in Tokyo, but every time I see Tokyo Tower, my heart still skips a beat.
Someone once asked me why I like Tokyo Tower so much. Maybe it’s the way it stands, or maybe it’s its glow. To me, this orange-red tower is more than just a tourist spot—it’s the symbol of Tokyo. -
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Oishi Park
Located on the shore of Lake Kawaguchi in the Oishi district of Yamanashi Prefecture, this scenic spot offers panoramic views of Mount Fuji across the lake. The park, with its photogenic landscapes, attracts many tourists.
Oishi Park is pretty much one of the places everyone visits when they come to Lake Kawaguchi. I went in winter, so I didn’t get to see the famous flower fields with Mount Fuji in the same view. There were also a lot of tour groups there, which made the whole park feel a bit crowded and mixed.
But if you walk a little farther to the playground area, it gets much quieter. Sitting there, eating some bread, and looking at Mount Fuji in front of me still felt worthwhile.
If you come during flower season, this place is definitely worth a visit. But if you come at the wrong time, you might want to think twice. -
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Ishiyamadera Temple
This is the head temple of the Shingon school on the bank of the Seta River, which flows from Lake Biwa, the largest lake in Japan. There are strange rocks erected all over the precincts, including the large rock towering in front of the Hondo (main shrine).
I visited Ishiyamadera Temple on a cloudy day after the rain. There were no cherry blossoms or fall colors at the time, and not many worshippers either, which made walking along the approach especially atmospheric.
The temple is built along the mountainside, and the view of the main hall set among the massive rocks feels both harmonious and almost sculpted by nature. Writing in a setting like this would surely inspire even more creativity! -
