Just a 30-minute train ride from Tokyo, Kawagoe (川越) in Saitama Prefecture (埼玉県) is where you can timeslip into the Japanese township in the Edo and the Meiji/Taishō periods. Getting off at Honkawagoe Station, the first part of Kawagoe that is filled with the retro atmosphere is the 300-meter long, Taishō Roman Yume-dōri Street (大正浪漫夢通り). […]
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Kawagoe’s (川越) main street, Kura no Machi Ichibangai Street, is filled with houses from the good old Edo period. As we have previously introduced you to the must-visit cafes on the street, we thought to bring you a list of spots where you can enjoy various workshops and/or activities around Kawagoe’s landmark, Toki no Kane
The Top Spots to Visit in Kawagoe for Interesting Activities Read More »
Konjō-in Hōkō-ji (金乗院 放光寺) at the top of a hill is a temple in Tokorozawa erected by the Kōbō Daishi (弘法大師). The scenery and buildings in the precinct are gorgeous. We reckon it is the best temple in the area! Not only does the temple have a scenic precinct, but you will also find Buddhist
Yamaguchi Kannon: The Best Scenic Temple in Tokorozawa City Read More »
People with a bit of knowledge of Aomori Prefecture will most likely have heard about the famous Hirosaki City. What they might not know or hear of is its sister-like city, Kuroishi (黒石市), which prospered with Hirosaki City as Hirosaki Castle’s castle town.
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While Kawagoe has many mouthwatering restaurants and cafes, most are not vegan-friendly. But don’t be too disappointed! Not far from the town’s landmark, Toki no Kane Clock, there is a long-established traditional Japanese cuisine restaurant called Kawagoe Kou Sushi (川越 幸すし) that offers a few vegan options. It can also accommodate both gluten-free and halal
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Tucked away in the scenic Sayama Hills of Tokorozawa in Saitama, Totoro Forest (トトロの森) and Kurosuke’s House offer Studio Ghibli fans a magical escape into the real-life landscape that inspired My Neighbor Totoro. Located just an hour outside of central Tokyo, this hidden gem allows you to wander through pristine nature trails and step inside a traditional Japanese home guarded
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If you have a car and plan to visit Tokorozawa in late spring or autumn, visit Tamon-in (多聞院). The temple is a renowned spot for peony and the beautiful fall foliage. Besides the natural scenery, pilgrims can enjoy a couple of fun rituals. In addition, it is a temple filled with tiger elements!
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Want to appreciate the picturesque 2km gorge with cliff walls of more than 100 meters high on both riverbanks, and all you need to do is relax on a boat? Geibikei Gorge (猊鼻渓) in Iwate Prefecture is the perfect place for you! Adding to this unforgettable experience is the traditional Japanese ballad that your boatman
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Renkeiji (蓮馨寺) is the temple in Kawagoe closest to Taishō Roman Yume-dōri. It is close to the street’s popular udon restaurant, Udon Tsumugi. The temple has a serene atmosphere and is rich in history. Since its establishment in the mid-16th century, the locals would go there and pray for various things, especially child-related matters, such
Renkeiji: A Temple to Pray for Child-Related Matters in Kawagoe Read More »
Ichinoseki (一関市) is the southmost city in Iwate Prefecture. Having a wealth of beautiful natural landscapes, it is the perfect destination for a weekend getaway from the big city’s hustle and bustle. If you are a foodie, Ichinoseki should also be of your interest. The city also has a unique mochi culture, meaning you will
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