Toden Memorial Square preserves the atmosphere of Tokyo's early streetcar era. Through its displays of old streetcars and related materials, you can get a glimpse of the history of the Toden system, from its days as one of the city's main forms of transportation to its gradual decline as subways and roads were developed. Today, the Toden Arakawa Line still runs through Tokyo's streets, passing old neighborhoods, shopping streets, and residential areas along the way. Come here to experience old Tokyo, then take a ride on a vintage streetcar for a truly nostalgic trip.
Toden Omoide Hiroba (Toden Memorial Square) | Review by Linda Liao
Other Reviews by Linda Liao
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Kawagoe Hikawa Shrine
Kawagoe Hikawa Shrine is a historic shrine that is said to have been built around 1500 years ago. The main shrine features elaborate engravings, and it has been designated as a National Important Intangible Folk Cultural Property.
Kawagoe Hikawa Shrine is a well-known place in Kawagoe to pray for good relationships. The grounds are peaceful, and as soon as you enter, you can feel the atmosphere of a traditional Japanese shrine. During this visit, I also tried the cute “carp amulet,” where you fish out a little carp yourself. It was fun and also great for taking commemorative photos.
While I was visiting the shrine, a newlywed couple happened to arrive by rickshaw for their wedding ceremony. During cherry blossom season, seeing them complete such an important life ceremony at the shrine in traditional wedding attire was romantic and full of happiness. There is also a café on the grounds where you can sit down, have a drink, and take a short break. The overall atmosphere was very comfortable.
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The Time Bell Tower (Toki no kane)
Kawagoe is only about an hour away from the center of Tokyo, and it is a city where you can enjoy the quaint streets. One of the most famous tourist landmarks in this city is the Bell of Time. It is a landmark with a striking presence in the street lined with old-fashioned warehouses.
When visiting Kawagoe, you’ll almost certainly pass by the Toki no Kane, or Time Bell Tower, which is filled with Edo-period charm. The old-fashioned wooden bell tower is one of Kawagoe’s most iconic landmarks, and its bell still rings at set times. The melodious chimes add a nostalgic atmosphere to the historic streets. Many traditional kurazukuri buildings have been preserved nearby, and walking along Kawagoe Ichibangai feels like stepping through a time tunnel. With the dessert and souvenir shops lining the street, it’s a great place to take a leisurely stroll, snap photos, and experience Kawagoe’s unique historic atmosphere.
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Tsuruhashi Fugetsu, Odaiba Store
Founded over 70 years ago in Tsuruhashi, Osaka, this popular okonomiyaki restaurant allows you to enjoy the same unchanging taste at their Odaiba location. Skilled artisans cook okonomiyaki with plenty of cabbage and finish it with a secret sauce, as well as "modanyaki," which features their signature thick egg noodles cooked on top of the okonomiyaki, all on a griddle right in front of you.
You can enjoy Osaka-style okonomiyaki in Tokyo too! Located in Odaiba, Tsuruhashi Fugetsu is a well-known, long-established okonomiyaki restaurant from Osaka. Each order is freshly prepared by mixing plenty of cabbage with batter and grilling it, resulting in a fluffy texture with the mild sweetness of the vegetables. Their signature okonomiyaki is topped with a special sauce, mayonnaise, and bonito flakes, giving it a wonderful aroma. You also get to enjoy the experience of having it served piping hot and freshly made.
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