Mt. Tengu is an attraction you absolutely shouldn't miss when visiting Otaru! I specifically chose a clear day, took the train from Sapporo to Otaru, then transferred to a bus and the ropeway up the mountain. I enjoyed the mountain scenery all the way up, and once I reached the observation platform, I could see all of Otaru, Otaru Port, and the coastline. The elevation here isn't particularly high, which actually makes the view of the city feel just right. The views are also great as you slowly walk along the hiking trails. Overall, the scenery is every bit as good as Mt. Hakodate, with an added touch of romance unique to Otaru. I recommend heading up the mountain when you visit Otaru!
Otaru Tenguyama Observation Platform, Otaru Tenguyama Ropeway | Review by Queenie
Other Reviews by Queenie
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Arisugawa-no-miya Memorial Park
This site, which was used as the lower residence of the Morioka Nanbu Clan during the Edo period, became a royal property of the Arisugawa-no-miya family in Meiji 29 (1896) and was donated to the Tokyo City in Showa 9 (1934) and opened to the public as a memorial park.
I never expected to find such a quiet and comfortable park tucked away in one of Tokyo's bustling residential neighborhoods. Arisugawa-no-miya Memorial Park is located among the residential streets of central Tokyo, and as soon as you enter, you're surrounded by lush greenery, creating a striking contrast with the noise of the city outside.
The park is shaded by trees and has a peaceful atmosphere. Walking slowly along the paths feels very relaxing.
The biggest surprise is that even though you're in central Tokyo, it feels like you've left the city behind.
Near the entrance, you can see many bicycles parked by local residents, which makes it feel like this isn't just a tourist attraction, but also part of everyday life for the people who live nearby.
The Tokyo Metropolitan Central Library is also located in the park. The whole setting is perfect for taking a walk, reading, or simply finding a place to sit quietly and clear your mind.
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Meiji Jingu Gaien (Outer Garden)
Meiji Jingu Gaien, the outer park of Meiji Shrine, was established in 1926. It features the Meiji Memorial Picture Gallery and various sports facilities, such as the Meiji Jingu Stadium, where you can enjoy nature throughout the four seasons.
Taking advantage of the nice weather, I came to Meiji Jingu Gaien for a walk by myself. Established in 1926, Meiji Jingu Gaien centers around the Meiji Memorial Picture Gallery and is surrounded by various sports facilities. It is also a well-known green space in central Tokyo.
The most famous attraction is, of course, this ginkgo avenue! Unfortunately, I visited in the summer, so I didn't get to see the streets filled with golden ginkgo leaves in the fall, but the avenue has its own special charm in summer. The huge ginkgo trees neatly lining both sides form a long green tunnel. Sunlight filters through the leaves, and walking slowly beneath the shade by myself with a gentle breeze blowing felt especially comfortable.
Nearby, you can also see buildings such as the Meiji Memorial Picture Gallery and Japan National Stadium. The mix of old and new scenery gives this area a distinctive Tokyo landscape.
Summer brings lush greenery, while fall offers the romance of golden ginkgo leaves. Visiting in different seasons will probably bring different surprises.
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Tokyo Camii Turkish Cultural Center
Japan’s largest Islamic mosque. In Turkish, Camii means a large mosque where worship takes place five times a day including Fridays. It came from an Arabic word that means “a place where many people gather.”
When I arrived at Tokyo Camii, I was immediately drawn to its solemn and intricate architecture. The entire mosque features an Ottoman style, with beautiful arches, domes, and ornate decorations that create a strong sense of being somewhere abroad. It is also one of Japan's most prominent Islamic places of worship.
The architecture isn't the only beautiful thing here. What I liked even more was the quiet, peaceful atmosphere. Sitting quietly inside for a while and doing nothing, I slowly felt my mind settle, as if I were being gently comforted. There are also retail areas on the first and second floors of the mosque: the first floor sells specialty products such as food and tea, while the second floor has some handmade goods.
If you're traveling to Tokyo, besides visiting the bustling attractions, I also highly recommend setting aside some time to walk around here. In addition to admiring the architecture, you can give yourself a quiet moment during your trip.
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