Beautiful Spots in Japan

I introduce Japanese beautiful spots which attract people all over the world.

The beauty of “Mono no Aware” in Kozenin of Tozuka-Angyo

1. Today's Walking Course

     I came to Tozuka-Angyo in Saitama Prefecture. Today, I will go to Kozenin Temple to appreciate Japanese beauty.

f:id:ITlover:20190916212338p:plain

2. Today's Photographies

     Now I am heading to Kozenin Temple from Toduka-Angyo Station. On the way to the temple, I can see some seedlings of garden plants. This area is famous for cultivating garden plants.

f:id:ITlover:20190916211340j:plain

      This is Kozenin Temple. This temple is very famous for the beautiful scenery.

f:id:ITlover:20190916211355j:plain

 

       These statues very suit temple’s ground.

f:id:ITlover:20190916211409j:plain

 

   Oh, orange cluster‐amaryllis is flowering. How beautiful it is!

f:id:ITlover:20190916211421j:plain

       When I see the lonely atmosphere with statues of guardian diety of children and tombstones just like the view in this temple, I feel “Mono no Aware”. It literary means the pathos of things. Japanese people find beauty in things that implies death while feeling gentle sadness.

f:id:ITlover:20190916211436j:plain

f:id:ITlover:20190916211446j:plain

f:id:ITlover:20190916211455j:plain

f:id:ITlover:20190916211507j:plain

f:id:ITlover:20190916211522j:plain

f:id:ITlover:20190916211536j:plain
        If the time for autumn leaves comes, I would like to visit this temple again.

 

3. History

       Kozenin Temple was built in 1546. The view in this temple was chosen as one of eight beautiful landscapes in Tozuka-Angyo area.

 

4. Information

     ・Closest station to Kozenin Temple is Tozuka-Angyo Station, Saitama Express Line.

goo.gl

Holy Resurrection Cathedral and Yushima Seido in Ochanomizu

1. Today's Walking Course

     I came to Ochanomizu. Today, I will go to Russian and Chinese traditional architectures in this area.

f:id:ITlover:20190915192714p:plain

 

2. Today's Photographies

    Now I am on Hijiri-bridge close to Ochanomizu Station. This place is very good to take pictures. 

f:id:ITlover:20190916114009j:plain
 

     First, I will go to Holy Resurrection Cathedral, Russian Orthodox Church. We usually call this church “Nikolai-do”.

f:id:ITlover:20190916114031j:plain

 

     This church was built in 1891 by Russian Christian, St. Nikolai. He came to Japan and made effort to advocate Orthodox Christianity.

f:id:ITlover:20190916114133j:plain

 

     This church is one of my favorite architectures in Tokyo.

f:id:ITlover:20190916114156j:plain

f:id:ITlover:20190916114236j:plain

f:id:ITlover:20190916114258j:plain

 

      Next, I will go to Yushima Seido. This is Yushima Seido’s walls. It looks very unique.

f:id:ITlover:20190916114319j:plain
 

      I guess this wall is made from plaster and  roof tiles.

f:id:ITlover:20190916114339j:plain
 

      This is the entrance.

f:id:ITlover:20190916114359j:plain
 

      Through the entrance, the inside is so tranquil.

f:id:ITlover:20190916114430j:plain

 

      The statue is Confucius and this place is a shrine to worship at him. He was born in 552 B.C. in China and became the founder of Confucianism.

f:id:ITlover:20190916114453j:plain
 

      I really love black gates and buildings here.

f:id:ITlover:20190916114521j:plain

f:id:ITlover:20190916114547j:plain

f:id:ITlover:20190916114557j:plain
 

      Finally, I came to  Shohei-Bridge to see Yushima Seido. Unfortunately, I cannot see Yushima Seido on this bridge. However, the view with a train is very nice.

f:id:ITlover:20190916114619j:plain 

3. History

     Yushima Seido was built in 1690. At that time, Tokugawa dynasty actively  encouraged Confucianism because the idea would stabilize the existing social structure. Hiroshige Utagawa painted the view from Shohei-Bridge in the 19th century as below. There are walls of Yushima Seido in the right side of this picture.

f:id:ITlover:20190915193358j:plain

      On the other hand, Tokugawa dynasty prohibited foreign religions including Christianity because foreign religions could make the social system unstable.

      After the collapse of Tokugawa dynasty in 1867, new Japanese government actively encouraged Western technologies and culture to modernize Japan. As a result, The ban of Christianity was lifted and Holy Resurrection Cathedral was also allowed to be built in 1891.

 

4. Information

・Closest stations to Holy Resurrection Cathedral and Yushima Seido are Ochanomizu Station, JR Chuo Line, JR Sobu Chuo Line and Marunouchi Line.

goo.gl

goo.gl

goo.gl

Kanda Myoujin Shrine and histrical architectures in Kanda

1. Today's Walking Course

     I came to Kanda. Today, I will go to Kanda Myoujin Shrine and historical architectures in Sudacho area.

f:id:ITlover:20190915155616p:plain

 

2. Today's Photographies

     Now I am in front of Kanda Myoujin Shrine. Trii gate is so big!

f:id:ITlover:20190916131941j:plain

 

     This is the entrance building of the shrine. It is so exquisite!

f:id:ITlover:20190916132000j:plain

 

     I really love the design in shrines. This clothing is also nice.

f:id:ITlover:20190916132019j:plain

 

     This is a mail hall.

f:id:ITlover:20190916132038j:plain
 

     This shrine is the location of famous animation called “Love Live!”. That is why there is the animation’s poster here.

f:id:ITlover:20190916132055j:plain

 

     I found small shrines inside of Kanda Myoujin Shrine. This is because this shrine enshrines many Gods. You can also see the similar view in Japan because Japanese religion is polytheistic. 

f:id:ITlover:20190916132127j:plain

     Since this shrine is located on the top of the hill, the scenery from the shrine is nice!

f:id:ITlover:20190916132147j:plain

 

     I found candy shop called “Daikokuya Jisuke” near the shrine. This shop opened more than 150 years ago and sells old-style Japanese candy.

f:id:ITlover:20190916132214j:plain

 

     I bought soda flavor candy. It is just 200 yen. Very reasonable!! The taste is also simple and nice.

f:id:ITlover:20190916132231j:plain

      

     Now I am in Sudacho area. Some buildings built more than 100 years ago are still remained in this area. Since Tokyo was completely devastated by big-earthquake in 1923 and large scale air raids in 1944 and 1945, this is very rare.

f:id:ITlover:20190916132252j:plain

f:id:ITlover:20190916132307j:plain

f:id:ITlover:20190916132327j:plain

 

     This is a Soba Noodle shop called “Matsuya”. This shop is one of the most famous Soba shops in Tokyo.

f:id:ITlover:20190916132344j:plain

 

     There are also historical Japanese style buildings.

f:id:ITlover:20190916132405j:plain

f:id:ITlover:20190916132419j:plain

 

      This shop is a sweet shop called “Takemura”. I will stop by this shop.

f:id:ITlover:20190916132434j:plain

 

       The speciality of this shop is fried bun with Azuki bean’s paste inside. It’s so delicious! 

f:id:ITlover:20190916132450j:plain
 

3. History

     It is said that Kanda Myoujin Shrine was established in 730 and local people have worshiped at this shrine for a long time.

     In 1616, Kanda Myoujin Shrine was moved to the current location. Since it was located on the top of the hill and the view was very nice, many local people visited the shrine and enjoyed the scenery in Edo Era (from the 17th century to the 19th century) as the following picture shows,

f:id:ITlover:20190915160637j:plain
       These days, Kanda area including this shrine is often used as the location of some animations such as “Love Live!”, “Is your order a rabbit?”, many fans often visit this area.

 

4. Information

・Closest station to Kanda Myoujin Shrine is Ochanomizu Station, JR Chuo Line, JR Sobu Chuo Line and Marunouchi Line.

・Daikokuya Jisuke candy shop is open from 8am to 3:30pm everyday. A pack of candy is 200yen. The address is Yushima 1-2-12 Lion's Plaza Ochanomizu 1F, Bukyo-ward, Tokyo.

・Takemura sweet shop is open from 11am to 8pm everyday except for Sunday and holidays. Two fried buns with green tea is 490 yen.

goo.gl

goo.gl

goo.gl

goo.gl

goo.gl

Arakawa River around Akabane

1. Today's Walking Course

      I came to Akabane. Today, I will go to Arakawa River and cross the river to Zenkoji in the opposite side.

f:id:ITlover:20190914194348p:plain

 

2. Today's Photographies

       Now I am near Akabane Station. This shop is Iseya sweet shop. Daifuku, rice-cake with Azuki bean paste in this shop is very famous for the size.

f:id:ITlover:20190916135152j:plain

 

      It is so big and the price is just 120 yen. It’s so amazing!!

f:id:ITlover:20190916135208j:plain
 

      After getting Daifuku, I will head to Arakawa river. The shopping street in Akabane is really nice.

f:id:ITlover:20190916135223j:plain

 

     This toy shop also has nostalgic atmosphere! When I was a child, I often went to this kind of shop.

f:id:ITlover:20190916135237j:plain

 

     This road is the old road in Edo Era (from the 17th century to the 19th century).

f:id:ITlover:20190916135251j:plain
 

    This scenery is also very nice. The chimney is public bath’s. Although the number of public bath is decreasing in Tokyo, there are some pubic bathes are remaining around here.

f:id:ITlover:20190916135308j:plain

 

     There are also some shrines along the road. This road really has history.

f:id:ITlover:20190916135324j:plain

f:id:ITlover:20190916135340j:plain
 

     Now I am on the bank of Arakawa river. The red old water gate is the stating point of Sumida river. Arakawa river and Sumida river are divided in this point.

f:id:ITlover:20190916135357j:plain

 

     I really love the scenery with Arakawa river. It’s so refreshing! Now, I will go to the bridge over there.

f:id:ITlover:20190916135410j:plain

 

     Now, I am on the bridge. I am heading to Zenkoji temple.

f:id:ITlover:20190916135429j:plain

 

      Look, that is Zenkoji!

f:id:ITlover:20190916135442j:plain
 

     Finally, I arrived at Zenkoji temple. This temple was built in the 12th century. Many people crossed the river to worship at this temple in Edo Era. I din’t know that this temple has such a long hisotory.

f:id:ITlover:20190916135458j:plain

 

     The school of Zenkoji temple is “Shingonshu”. The founder is “Kukai”. He was born in the 8th century and brought new Chinese Buddhism to Japan.

f:id:ITlover:20190916135514j:plain

 

3. History

     There was a road called “Nikko Onari Kaido” from Tokyo to Nikko city of Tochigi Prefecture in Edo Era (from the 17th century to the 19th century). The road is mainly used for Tokugawa ruler who worshiped at Nikko Toshogu Temple where the founder of Tokugawa dynasty, Ieyasu Tokugawa has been enshrined in. Iwabuchi, south part of Arakawa river and Kawaguchi, north part of the river are post towns of “Nikko Onari Kaido” road.

f:id:ITlover:20190914195033j:plain
     For the defense reason, there was no bridge around here. That is why people got on a ferryboat and crossed the river. The above picture is for Arakawa river close to Zenkoji temple in Edo Era. The most right on the picture is a ferryboat to cross the river.  Zenkoji temple with read and dark blue colors was also depicted in the  upper right. Many people got on the ferryboat to visit the temple at that time.

     There were also some rafts on the painting. People cut trees around the upstream of Arakawa river and brought these trees down to Tokyo  for construction by rafts.

   

4. Information

・Closest station to Iseya sweet shop is Akabane Station, JR Keihin Tohoku Line. The shop is open from 10:30am to 8pm everyday except for Tuesday. Daifuku is 120yen.

・Closest stations to Zenkoji temple are Kawaguchi Station, JR Keihin Tohoku Line or Kawaguchi-Motogo Station, Saitama Express Line.

goo.gl

goo.gl

goo.gl

Delicious Dorayaki and Fujizuka Mound in Higashi-Jujo

1. Today's Walking Course

     I came to Higashi-Jujo. Today, I will get very delicious Dorayaki and climb up Fujizuka Mound.

f:id:ITlover:20190914172826p:plain

 

2. Today's Photographies

     Now, I am in front of Sougetsu sweet shop. Dorayaki of this shop is regarded as one of the three major Dorayaki in Tokyo.

f:id:ITlover:20190916142911j:plain

 

     This is Dorayaki. It is a pancake filled with Azuki bean jam. Since it looks Chinese gong called “Dora” in Japanese, the name of this sweet is “Dorayaki”. This Dorayaki is very tasty!!

f:id:ITlover:20190916142926j:plain

f:id:ITlover:20190916142940j:plain

 

      After getting Dorayaki, I will stroll around Higashi-Jujo.

f:id:ITlover:20190916142955j:plain

 

      Look! There is a Jizo Stone Statue. Jizo is a traveler's guardian deity and set on roads. People used to pray to Jizo for travel safety.

f:id:ITlover:20190916143009j:plain

 

       There are a lot of slopes around here.

f:id:ITlover:20190916143024j:plain

 

      There is a shopping street.

f:id:ITlover:20190914173126j:plain

f:id:ITlover:20190916143108j:plain

 

      This building is a Shinohara Engei Theater. We can watch traditional performance such as singing and dancing at reasonable price here. Here is one of the few Engei Theaters in Tokyo.

f:id:ITlover:20190916143124j:plain

 

      Now I arrived at Fujizuka Mound.

f:id:ITlover:20190916143141j:plain

 

       This way is the formal entrance.

f:id:ITlover:20190916143157j:plain

 

       There are some stones engraved letters. It looks so spiritual.

f:id:ITlover:20190916143219j:plain

 

      The view from the top is just like this.

f:id:ITlover:20190916143242j:plain

 

     There is a small shrine on the top.   

f:id:ITlover:20190916143258j:plain

 

3. History

    Fujizuka Mounds are miniature of Mt. Fuji, the highest mountain in Japan. The picture below is Mt. Fuji. During the 17 century to the 19th century in Edo Era, many Fujizuka Mounds were made in order to worship at Mt. Fuji.

f:id:ITlover:20190914173452j:plain

     At that time, it was believed that people could get the good luck by climbing up Fujizuka even though they didn’t climb up Mt. Fuji. That is why many people often climbed up Fujizuka Mounds as the following picture depicted in Edo Era (the following picture is for Fujizuka in Meguro, not Higashi-Jujo's).

f:id:ITlover:20190914173515j:plain
    Although many mounds were destroyed during the high economic growth from 1960s to 1980s, there are still about 50 Fuji Mounds in Tokyo and HIgashi-Jujo’s is one of them.

 

4. Information

・Closest station to Sougetsu sweet shop is Higashi-Juo Station, JR Keihin Tohoku Line. The shop is open from 9am to 7pm everyday. Dorayaki is 120yen.

goo.gl

goo.gl

goo.gl

goo.gl

Mixture of Japanese and French cultures in Kagurazaka

1. Today's Walking Course

     I came to Kagurazaka. Today, I will try to find mixture of Japanese and French cultures here.   

f:id:ITlover:20190914160532p:plain

 

2. Today's Photographies

     Now, I am in front of the exit of Iidabashi Station. The slope area over there is Kagurazaka.

f:id:ITlover:20190916222658j:plain

 

  I arrived at Zenkokuji Temple on the slope. This temple is very popular among the local people and they often stopped by and prayed to the God here.

f:id:ITlover:20190916222721j:plain

f:id:ITlover:20190916222735j:plain

 

     If you came to Kagurazaka, you should stroll around alleys because these alleys have very traditional atmosphere. For exmaple, this alley is called “Hyogo Yokocho Alley”, one of the most popular alleys here.

f:id:ITlover:20190916222753j:plain

f:id:ITlover:20190916222810j:plain

f:id:ITlover:20190916222827j:plain

 

    This alley is called “Kakurenbo Yokocho Alley”. If you strolled around alleys around here, you can often see “Maiko”, Japanese traditional dancer or "Geisya", Japanese traditional performer.

f:id:ITlover:20190916222845j:plain

f:id:ITlover:20190916222901j:plain

f:id:ITlover:20190916222919j:plain

 

    On the other hand, we can also feel French culture in Kagurazaka. Look, there is a French flag.

f:id:ITlover:20190916222935j:plain


     I will stop by this French bakery called “Paul”.

f:id:ITlover:20190916222950j:plain

 

     The inside decoration is also nice.

f:id:ITlover:20190916223009j:plain
 

     I ordered Croissants and Kouign Amann, French traditional sweet.

f:id:ITlover:20190916223028j:plain

 

     After eating breads, I finally arrived at Institut français du Japon. This facility is for teaching French and promoting French culture in Japan.

f:id:ITlover:20190916223052j:plain
 

     I can see some French people here.

f:id:ITlover:20190916223108j:plain

 

      This book store really looks like store in Paris!

f:id:ITlover:20190916223130j:plain

    Today, I could enjoy both Japanese and French cultures in Kagurazaka.

 

3. History

       At the latter half of the 18th century, Zenkokuji Temple was moved to Kagurazaka and many people visited this area to worship at this temple. The following painting for Kagurazaka in the 19 century also shows the prosperity in this area.

f:id:ITlover:20190914141333j:plain

     After Meiji Restoration in the latter half of the 19th century, many formal restaurants where customers could watch the performance by “Maiko”, Japanese traditional dancer and “Geisya”, Japanese traditional performer were built in this area. Today, some formal restaurants are still remaining along some alleys such as “Hyogo Yokocho Alley”.

     After the World War Ⅱ, Tokyo Japanese French Language School, the predecessor of Institut français du Japon was established in 1952. Due to this facility, many French people settled in Kagurazaka and many France related shops have been opened. As the result, there is mixture of Japanese and French cultures in this area.

 

4. Information

・Closest stations to Zenkokuji Temple are Iidabashi Station, JR Chuo Line, JR Chuo-Sobu Line, Namboku Line, Oedo Line, Tozai Line, Yurakucho Line or Ushigome-Kagurazaka Station, Oedo Line.

・Paul is open from 10am to 9pm every day.

goo.gl

goo.gl

goo.gl

goo.gl

g.page

Konpiragu Shrine and delicious rice-cake sweet called Daifuku in Toranomon

1. Today's Walking Course

     I came to Toranomon, the business district in Tokyo. Today, I will try to find Japanese traditional scenery in this area.   

f:id:ITlover:20190914110310p:plain

 

2. Today's Photographies

     Now I am in an intersection called Toranomon.   

f:id:ITlover:20190914110331j:plain

 

     Toranomon literally means Tiger Gate. According to Chinese mythology, there are four divine beasts which protect each direction in city. North side is Genbu (black warrior); south part with Suzaku (a red phoenix); east part with Seiryu (a blue dragon);  west part is Byakko (a white tiger).

     Since Tranomon used to be west gate of Tokyo, people believed a white tiger protected the gate.

    Look! There is a statue of Tiger!

f:id:ITlover:20190914110411j:plain

 

     First, I will go to see preserved moat of Edo Castle. There used to be outer moat of Edo Castle around here and a part of moat has been preserved.

f:id:ITlover:20190914110442j:plain

 

    As you can see, there are a lot of small stones between big rocks. This is because it left no space for enemies to step their foot.

f:id:ITlover:20190914110512j:plain

 

    Next, I will go to Konpiragu Shrine. This shrine is very unique because the approach to the shrine is just below the office building.

f:id:ITlover:20190914110539j:plain

 

    Now, I am just below the building.

f:id:ITlover:20190914110602j:plain

    The main hall is just next the building. How close it is!

f:id:ITlover:20190914110624j:plain

 

     Trii gate is also very unique in this shrine.

f:id:ITlover:20190914110645j:plain

 

     You can see four divine beasts in Chinese mythology.

f:id:ITlover:20190914110709j:plain

f:id:ITlover:20190914110736j:plain

 

     There are trees in the site of the shrine. It is so refreshing!

f:id:ITlover:20190914110801j:plain

 

     Now, I leave the shrine and go to the sweet shop. There are high-rising buildings. This area is one of the most developing areas in Tokyo.

f:id:ITlover:20190914110827j:plain

 

    On the other hand, some traditional shops are still remaining. This shop is for Japanese sword.

f:id:ITlover:20190914110857j:plain

 

    Now, I  arrived at the sweet shop called “Okano Eisen”. Daifuku, rice-cake with Azuki bean’s paste is a speciality in this shop.

f:id:ITlover:20190914110921j:plain

 

    This is Daifuku. It is very delicious! 

f:id:ITlover:20190914110947j:plain

f:id:ITlover:20190914111005j:plain

     I didn’t know there are so many historical sites in Toranomon.

 

3. History

     There used to be the west gate and outer moat of Edo Castle in Tranomon as the old map in Edo era (17th century - 19th century )  shows.

f:id:ITlover:20190914112750p:plain

     Kotohiragu Shrine was built in the latter half of the 17th century and very popular in local people.  You can see Trii gate of the shrine on the left side of the following painting for Tranomon depicted in the 19th century,

f:id:ITlover:20190914111048j:plain

     After the modernization in the latter half of the 19th century, many government offices were built in the next area and Toranomon has also become business area where many special corporations which have strong relationship with the government are located.

 

4. Information

・Closest station to Toranomon is Toranomon Station, Ginza Line.

・Okano Eisen sweet shop is open from 9am to 5pm from Monday to Friday; from 9am to noon in Saturday; closed in Sunday and holidays. Daifuku is 260yen.

goo.gl

goo.gl

goo.gl

goo.gl

Beautiful scenery of canal and alleys in Tukishima

1. Today's Walking Course

     I came to the lower reaches of Sumida river in Tokyo. Today, I will visit Tukishima and try to find Japanese traditional scenery.   

f:id:ITlover:20190914091202p:plain

 

2. Today's Photographies

     Now I am in the riverside park. The island over there is Tukishima. I will cross the bridge to go there.

f:id:ITlover:20190914091219j:plain

 

    This bridge is so big!

f:id:ITlover:20190914091240j:plain

 

    After crossing the bridge, there is a good promenade along Sumida river.

f:id:ITlover:20190914091303j:plain

f:id:ITlover:20190914091323j:plain

 

     The Japanese-style architecture seems lighthouse. The contrast with high-rising building is interesting!

f:id:ITlover:20190914091347j:plain

 

    The other side of this canal is Tukuda district. This area is the first reclaimed island in Tukishima. There are a lot of traditional scenery and culture there.

f:id:ITlover:20190914091410j:plain

 

     I really love this peaceful landscape with canal!

f:id:ITlover:20190914091434j:plain

 

    The scenery of traditional waterside with modern high-rising buildings for the background is very famous for Tukishima.

f:id:ITlover:20190914091500j:plain

 

    Here is Shumiyoshi Shrine to worship the sea god. This is because originally the local people made a living with fishery and prayed for safety on the sea.

f:id:ITlover:20190914091525j:plain

 

      In Tukuda district, there are a lot of alleys.

f:id:ITlover:20190914091551j:plain

f:id:ITlover:20190914091611j:plain

f:id:ITlover:20190914091630j:plain

 

      This is a well. I didn’t know that a well is still remaining in Tokyo!

f:id:ITlover:20190914091656j:plain

 

      Local people are growing flowers. They are so beautiful!

f:id:ITlover:20190914091720j:plain

f:id:ITlover:20190914091740j:plain

 

     This shop is called Tenyasu and very famous for tsukudani; preservable food boiled down in soy sauce. Tukudani is a specialty in Tukishima. I cannot leave here without getting Tukudani!

f:id:ITlover:20190914091819j:plain

 

     This is Tukudani. The right one is small fish and the left one is clam. We usually eat it with rice. It’s so delicious!

f:id:ITlover:20190914091842j:plain

 

3. History

     When Ieyasu Tokugawa ruled Japan and started developing Tokyo as the capital of Japan, he brought fishermen in Osaka, west part of Japan to Tokyo and made a artificial island for them in the early 17th century. The island is the original of Tukishima.

     As the following picture in the 19 century shows, the island was so small and there was no bridge at that time.

f:id:ITlover:20190914091911j:plain

       In the latter part of the 19th century, Japanese new government dredged Sumida river and expanded the island with dredged soils. As the result, the current Tukishima island was establshed.

       Since Tukishima is an island and the traffic access was bad, the island has remained the old scenery compared to other parts of Tokyo. After Yurakucho Line was open in 1988, the traffic access was improved and many high-rising  buildings have been constructed recently. Thus, the old and new scenery has coexisted in this area.

 

4. Information

・Closest station to Tukishima is Tukishima Station, Yurakucho Line and Oedo Line.

・Tenyasu, Tukudani shop is open from 9am to 6pm from Sunday to Saturday. Three kinds of assorted Tukudani pack is 1020yen.

goo.gl

Toden Monaka and Oji Inari Shrine in Oji

1. Today's Walking Course

     I came to Oji, north part of Tokyo. Today, I will enjoy Japanese sweets and visit Oji Inari Shrine.

f:id:ITlover:20190909174743p:plain

 

2. Today's Photographies

     Now I am in Kajiwara Station, Toden Arakawa Line. The scenery with the train around here is very good. I really love the nostalgic atmosphere that Arakawa Line has.

f:id:ITlover:20190909174810j:plain

f:id:ITlover:20190909174833j:plain

 

     This shop is called Toden-Monaka Akemi sweet shop. 

f:id:ITlover:20190909174856j:plain


     This shop is famous for “Toden-Monaka”.  Monaka is a wafer filled with bean paste. This shop’s monaka looks like Toden Arakawa Train as below. That is why it is called “Toden-Monaka”. We cannot leave this shop without getting “Toden-Monaka”!

f:id:ITlover:20190909174931j:plain

 

    I also bought sweet beans jelly called Yokan in Japanese. Japanese people like to eat Yokan in summer because they look very cool.

f:id:ITlover:20190909174950j:plain

 

 In addition, I got steamed bun that looks like fox. Oji Inari Shrine where I will visit today is related to fox. Therefore, you can see a lot of designs of fox in Oji.

f:id:ITlover:20190909175008j:plain

 

   After buying sweets, I will head to Oji Inari Shrine. Look! There are some fox’s design on some shops. It’s so interesting. I feel that local people are so attached to fox in Oji.

f:id:ITlover:20190909175031j:plain

f:id:ITlover:20190909175055j:plain

 

    The shrine is just on the top of this hill.

f:id:ITlover:20190909175122j:plain


    This is the entrance.

f:id:ITlover:20190909175213j:plain

 

    There are some fox statues!

f:id:ITlover:20190909175235j:plain

f:id:ITlover:20190909175254j:plain


    The main hall is so fine.

f:id:ITlover:20190909175320j:plain

f:id:ITlover:20190909175340j:plain

 

    There are consecutive red Trii gates. These are typical for Inari shrine.

f:id:ITlover:20190909175407j:plain

f:id:ITlover:20190909175427j:plain

 

3. History

     In Japan, there are many kinds of shrine. Inari shrine is to worship the God for abundant rice crop. Fox is an animal considered to be a messenger of Inari God. That is why there are fox statues in Inari shrine.

     Oji Inari Shrine was built before the 9th century. From the 17th century to 19th century in Edo era, the shrine was regarded as the most high ranking Inari shrine in  Kanto area which include Tokyo, Saitama, Kanagawa, Chiba, Ibaraki, Gunma, Tochigi.

     At that time, many people visited Oji Inari Shrine for worship as the following painting shows.

f:id:ITlover:20190909175457j:plain

 

    It was also said that foxes all over Kanto area gathered at Oji on the New Year’s Eve to worship at Oji Inari Shrine. The following picture shows this story.

f:id:ITlover:20190909175513j:plain

     

4. Information

・Closest station to Oji Inari Shrine is Oji Station, JR Keihin Tohoku Line.

・Closest station to Toden-Monaka Akemi sweet shop is Kajiwara Station, Toden Arakawa Line. The shop is open form 10:00am to 7:00pm from Tuesday to Sunday. It is closed on Monday. 

goo.gl

goo.gl

     If you are interested in Oji, please check the following articles. 

japanlover.hatenablog.com

japanlover.hatenablog.com

Waterfall of village headman's waterfall park in Oji

1. Today's Walking Course

     Today, I came to Oji, north part of Tokyo. I’ll visit the village headman’s waterfall park to see a waterfall.

f:id:ITlover:20190908154254p:plain

 

2. Today's Photographies

     There are some old-fashioned buildings on the way to the village headman’s waterfall park.

f:id:ITlover:20190908154348j:plain

f:id:ITlover:20190908154411j:plain

 

      This shop is called Ishinabe-kuzumochi sweet shop and very famous for “kuzumochi”. I will stop by this shop to get “kuzumochi”.

f:id:ITlover:20190908154438j:plain

 

     This is a sweet called “kuzumochi”. It is made from wheat. First, protein is extracted from wheat and the remaining is fermented for one and a half year or two years into “kuzukiri”. We usually eat it with brown sugar syrup and yellow soy flour. This sweet is one of the most popular traditional sweets in summer.

f:id:ITlover:20190908154506j:plain

                                                       photo by the shop's HP

       After eating “kuzumochi”, I am heading to the village headman’s waterfall garden.

f:id:ITlover:20190908154852j:plain

 

      Here is the entrance of the garden.

f:id:ITlover:20190908154949j:plain

 

      Wow, how tranquil it is! I cannot believe that I am in Tokyo now.

f:id:ITlover:20190908155015j:plain

 

    The pavement is so unique. It is made of stones and roof tiles.

f:id:ITlover:20190908155040j:plain

 

      I’ve heard that Oji used to be so greenery and British people came to Japan in the 19th century called this area “Japanese Cotswolds”. Now I understand it.

f:id:ITlover:20190908155118j:plain

f:id:ITlover:20190908155140j:plain

 

       Finally, I arrived at waterfall. It is so refreshing. The temperature around here is definitely much lower than outside! I guess local people often used to come to this garden to enjoy the cool during summer.

f:id:ITlover:20190908155214j:plain

 

3. History

       In the 19th century, the village headman called Sonpachi made this garden as private. That is why the garden is called “village headman’s waterfall garden”.

       In 20th century, a business man who managed a trading company acquired and developed the garden. In 1938, Japanese company called Seiyoken bought the garden, built restaurant and pool inside and opened to the public.

       The garden was destroyed by the air-raid during the World War Ⅱ. However, Tokyo metropolitan government opened to the pubic again in 1960.

       There used to be seven waterfalls in Oji. Japanese famous painter, Hiroshige Utagawa painted one of those waterfalls in Oji as below.

f:id:ITlover:20190908155256j:plain

        Due to the urbanization of Oji, Six of seven waterfalls disappeared and the waterfall in the  village headman’s garden is only remaining.

     

4. Information

・Closest station to the village headman’s waterfall garden is Oji Station, JR Keihin Tohoku Line. The garden is open from 10:00am to 5:00pm. The entrance fee is free.

・Ishinabe-kuzumochi sweet shop is open form 9:30am to 6:00pm from Monday to Friday and from 9:30 to 5:00pm on Saturday. It is closed on Sunday. “Kuzumochi” is 510 yen.

goo.gl

goo.gl

     If you are interested in Oji area, please check the following articles.

japanlover.hatenablog.com

japanlover.hatenablog.com

Feeling the coming of autumn in Minuma of Saitama Prefecture

1. Today's Walking Course

     Today, I came to Minuma area in Saitama Prefecture. Altough it takes just one hour from Tokyo, this area remains Japanese rural scenery.

f:id:ITlover:20190908132833p:plain


2. Today's Photographies

     Now I am in Minuma Nature Park.

f:id:ITlover:20190905223806j:plain

 

     I really love this pond because the landscape is very similar with "Water-Lilies" by Claude MONET. Whenever I have free time, I come here and just admire the view.

f:id:ITlover:20190905223841j:plain

 

     Now I am heading to the north. This road lined with trees is also my favorite.

f:id:ITlover:20190905223916j:plain

 

     This landscape of rice field is Japanese original scenery!

f:id:ITlover:20190905223956j:plain

 

     Ears of rice have already been bearing. Although it is still hot, autumn is coming now.

f:id:ITlover:20190905224023j:plain

 

     Those are scarecrows, traditional Japanese autumn feature. Local people set them to keep birds away.

f:id:ITlover:20190905224057j:plain

 

     This is a small shrine. I guess local people have prayed for good harvest here.

f:id:ITlover:20190905224139j:plain

 

   There are chestnuts on the tree. I feel autumn is on its way.

f:id:ITlover:20190905224203j:plain

 

     Finally I arrived at Nanasato Park.

f:id:ITlover:20190905224246j:plain

 

3. History

     Minuma used to be vast wetland. In the 18th century, this area was reclaimed into rice field. While many areas around Tokyo were urbanized during the high economic growth in 1970s, Minuma has remained the original scenery due to the activity by the local people for nature protection.

 

4. Information

Access to Minuma Nature Park is to take Kokusaikoggyo Bus bound for Omiya Station at Urawamisono Station, Saitama Railway and  get off Simekiri Bridge Bus Station.

goo.gl

Goldfish and the lighting-up of city in Nihonbashi

1. Today's Walking Course

     Today, I came to Nihonbashi to see the goldfish exhibition. Goldfish is a kind of crucian carp with beautiful color and the feature in Japanese summer.

f:id:ITlover:20190908103847p:plain


2. Today's Photographies

     Now I am in the front of Nihonbashi Bridge. This bridgIe is one of the most famous bridge and the starting point of main roads in Japan.

f:id:ITlover:20190907144938j:plain

 

     This electric lamp on the bridge has a historical atmosphere.

f:id:ITlover:20190904223916j:plain

 

   This statue is about legendary Chinese animals. It’s extremely elaborate!

f:id:ITlover:20190904223940j:plain

 

     After crossing the bridge, I found the lighting-up of building, Mandrin Oriental Hotel. It is so beautiful! I think the facade is blending of Japanese and Western styles.

f:id:ITlover:20190904224003j:plain

 

     During summer, this road is decorated with a lot of paper lanterns.  It looks very cool.

f:id:ITlover:20190904224028j:plain

 

     The design of this lantern is goldfish. It really suites Japanese summer!

f:id:ITlover:20190904224058j:plain

 

     Wow, Fukutoku Shrine is also being lit up. 

f:id:ITlover:20190904224126j:plain

 

     This shrine is just among many buildings. Altough it looks new, this shrine was established in the 9th century. It has a very long history.

f:id:ITlover:20190904224146j:plain

 

     Now I am on the goldfish exhibition hall in Coredo Muromachi 1st building. These goldfishes are so pretty!!

f:id:ITlover:20190904224231j:plain

f:id:ITlover:20190904224247j:plain

f:id:ITlover:20190904224308j:plain

f:id:ITlover:20190904224326j:plain

f:id:ITlover:20190904224339j:plain

f:id:ITlover:20190904224403j:plain

f:id:ITlover:20190904224417j:plain

     Today I completely enjoyed Japanese summer!!

 

3. History

     The Nihonbashi Bridge was established in the 17th century as a part of development of Tokyo city and this bridge has been the starting point of Japanese main roads since then.

      Since there were many shops and the biggest fish market around Nihonbashi, this area was one of the most lively in Japan during the 17th century to the 19th century in Edo era. As Hiroshige Utagawa, Japanese famous painter depicted as below, there have always been a lot of people crossing this bridge since long ago.

f:id:ITlover:20190904224455j:plain

     The current stone bridge was build in the 20th century.  Unfortunately, the expressway was constructed just above the bridge in 1960s because Tokyo metropolitan government needed to establish transportation infrastructure rapidly before Tokyo Olympic in 1964. 

     Now, many Japanese people understand the importance of protecting the traditional landscapre and want to recover the scenery in Nihonbashi.

    In order to deal with it, Japanese property company which has developed this area announced that they would remove the expressway and return the landscape in the future.

 

4. Information

・Closest stations to Nihonbashi Bridge is Nihonbashi Station, Ginza Line or Asakua Line.

・Mandarin Oriental Hotel is just 5 miutes and Fukutoku Shrine is just 10 minutes on foot from Nihonbashi Bridge.

goo.gl

goo.gl

goo.gl

Hikawa Shrine in Omiya of Saitama prefecture

1. Today's Walking Course

     Today, I came to Omiya in Saitama prefecture. Omiya literally means a big shrine and it is Hikawa Shrine where I will go today.

f:id:ITlover:20190903223739p:plain

 

2. Today's Photographies

     Now I am on the approach to Hikawa Shrine. This approach is about 2km and the longest in Japan. I cannot see Trii gate, the entrance of shrine at all…

f:id:ITlover:20190903223619j:plain

 

     Now the Trii gate is coming into sight!

f:id:ITlover:20190903223827j:plain

 

     There is a old tree which has a histric atmosphere.

f:id:ITlover:20190903223928j:plain

 

     Bamboo forest too!

f:id:ITlover:20190903223955j:plain

 

     It is so beautiful.

f:id:ITlover:20190903224024j:plain

 

     There are some traditional architecture which has a historical atmosphere.

f:id:ITlover:20190903224051j:plain

 

     I almost arrived at the entrance of the shrine.

f:id:ITlover:20190903224130j:plain

 

     Finally, I arrived!

f:id:ITlover:20190907145040j:plain

 

     After going through the Trii gate, the area looks very spiritual.

f:id:ITlover:20190903224241j:plain

 

     They are barrels of Japanese sake made in the local area. They are all tributes to God in the shrine.

f:id:ITlover:20190903224313j:plain

 

     This is the main gate of shrine. It is so big.

f:id:ITlover:20190903224359j:plain

 

     Through the gate, there is a dancing hall where dancer perform for God.

f:id:ITlover:20190903224424j:plain

 

     This is the mail hall which enshrines God.

f:id:ITlover:20190903224504j:plain

 

     There are many beautiful objects and design here!!

f:id:ITlover:20190903224546j:plain

f:id:ITlover:20190903224608j:plain

f:id:ITlover:20190903224650j:plain


3. History

     According to the tradition, Hikawa Shrine was established more than 2000 years ago and Omiya was developed as the shrine town.

     In 17th century, Omiya became a post town of Japanese major street called Nakasendo and many people visited the town. The town had flourished very much from the 17th century to the 19th century in Edo era.

     After the modernization of Japan in the 19 century, Omiya became the key point of Japanese railway network and many goods and people flowed into this area.

    Now, Omiya also plays a role of commuter town to Tokyo and is one of the most developed areas in Saitama prefecture.

 

4. Information

・Closest stations to Hikawa Shrine is Omiya Station, JR Keihin Tohoku Line.

goo.gl

     If you are interested in Omiya area, please check the following article. 

japanlover.hatenablog.com

Bonsai in Omiya Bonsai City in Saitama Prefecture

1. Today's Walking Course

     Today, I came to Bonsai-city in Saitama prefecture. Bonsai is a dwarfed potted plant and there are a lot of Bonsai shops around here. I am looking forward to appreciating various types of Bonsai. 

f:id:ITlover:20190902222743p:plain


2. Today's Photographies

     Now I am at Omiyakoen Station, Tobu Noda Line. Here is called Bonsai-city as expected there are a lot of trees.

f:id:ITlover:20190902222813j:plain

 

     There are also beautiful flowers!!

f:id:ITlover:20190902222837j:plain

f:id:ITlover:20190902222857j:plain

 

     This moss boll represents Japanese beauty.

f:id:ITlover:20190902222926j:plain

 

     I can see bonsai all over town.

f:id:ITlover:20190902223002j:plain

 

     Now I arrived at Omiya Bonsai Art Museum. Here is the only public museum which displays bonsai in the world.

f:id:ITlover:20190902223024j:plain

 

     As soon as I entered the museum, I found a very beautiful bonsai at the entrance hall.

f:id:ITlover:20190902223047j:plain

 

     First, I see the garden from the second floor in the facility. I’ve never seen so many bonsai in one place.

f:id:ITlover:20190902223113j:plain

f:id:ITlover:20190902223201j:plain

 

     Each bonsai has each different characteristic.

f:id:ITlover:20190902223223j:plain

f:id:ITlover:20190902223259j:plain

f:id:ITlover:20190902223253j:plain

f:id:ITlover:20190902223302j:plain

f:id:ITlover:20190902223308j:plain

f:id:ITlover:20190902223350j:plain

f:id:ITlover:20190902223409j:plain

 

     My favorite one is this bonsai in the restroom!

f:id:ITlover:20190902223432j:plain

 

3. History

     Bonsai is living work of art capturing the essence of Japanese beauty in nature as well as Japanese gardens and flower arrangement.

     It is said that people grew tree in flower pot at least more than 2500 years ago in China. This cluture was came to Japan befor the 14th century. 

      From the 17th century to the 19th century in Edo perido, Bonsai became very popular and not only wealthy people but also ordinary people actively grew Bonsai in Japan.

        Today, many Japanese poeple regard Bonsai as hobby just for old people who have a lot of free time to take care of it. However, foreigners and Japanese young people just start to be interested in Bonsai as a world-famous Japanese culture.

     Many Bonsai gardeners used to live in Sendagi, the center of Tokyo. However, due to the urbanization of Tokyo after the 20the century, many gardeners had lack of land for growing Bonsai seedlings. 

     The big earthquake devastated Tokyo in 1923. After this, Bonsai gardeners moved to the current Bonsai-city in Saitama prefuecture for large ground. Now, Omiya Bonsai-city is the largest area for growing Bonsai in Japan. 

 

4. Information

・Closest stations to Omiya Bonsai Art Museum is Toro Station, JR Tohoku Line. The museum is open from 9:00am to 4:30pm (from March to October) and from 9:00am to 4:00pm (from November to February). Thursday is closed. The entrance fee is 300 yen for adult, 150 yen for high school student or more than 65 years old and 100 yen for elementary school or junior high school student.

・There are also private bonsai shops such as Mansei-en, Seika-en, Kyuka-en and Fuyoen where you can appreciate Bonsai in the city.

goo.gl

goo.gl

goo.gl

goo.gl

goo.gl

      If you are interested in Omiya Area in Saitama Prefecture, please check the following article.

japanlover.hatenablog.com

 

Bloom of lotus in Shinobazu pond in Ueno

1. Today's Walking Course

     Today, I will go to Shinobazu pond in Ueno to enjoy the bloom of lotus. I will start at Ueno-HIROKOJI Station.

f:id:ITlover:20190831214247p:plain
 

2. Today's Photographies

     Now I am in Ueno-HIROKOJI street. The greenery area is Ueno park.

f:id:ITlover:20190831215325j:plain

 

     Before going to the pond, I will stop by Mihashi, a famous sweet shop. Mihashi was open in 1948 and Anmitu, Japanese traditonal sweet is very popular.

f:id:ITlover:20190831215357j:plain

 

     That is Anmitsu. Anmitsu literally means Azuki bean’s paste with brown sugar syrup. My Anmitsu also include matcha ice-cream, mandarin orange and agar. Japanese poeple often eat Anmitu in summer to keep out the heat.

f:id:ITlover:20190830212832j:plain

 

     After eating the sweet, I finally arrived at Shinobazu pond.

f:id:ITlover:20190830212854j:plain

 

     Wow, lotuses are bloom everywhere!

f:id:ITlover:20190830212905j:plain

f:id:ITlover:20190830212900j:plain

f:id:ITlover:20190830213005j:plain

 

     They are really beautiful.

f:id:ITlover:20190830213054j:plain

f:id:ITlover:20190830213101j:plain

f:id:ITlover:20190830213046j:plain

 

     I will go to that temple over there. The temple is called Bentendo and localed in the midlle of the pond.

f:id:ITlover:20190830213214j:plain

f:id:ITlover:20190830213234j:plain

 

     I finally got the temple, it is bigger than I expected.

f:id:ITlover:20190830213303j:plain
 

  Next, I will go up to the Ueno park.            

f:id:ITlover:20190830213334j:plain

 

    Here is Kiyomizu Kannon-do in the Ueno park.

f:id:ITlover:20190830213526j:plain

f:id:ITlover:20190830213648j:plain

 

    There is a very unique pine tree here. I can see the temple in the pond in the circle of the branch!

f:id:ITlover:20190830213716j:plain

 

3. History

     Ueno used to be the site of big temple called Kaneiji which was established at the begining of the 17th century. Since there were a lot of beautiful architecture and nature in this place, many people visited mainly for sightseeing. Ueno-HIROKOJI street toward Ueno was one of the widest road in Edo era from the 17th century to the 19 century. The following picture is about the street. Many people with red umbrella are heading to Ueno in the picture as well.

f:id:ITlover:20190830213749j:plain

       As for Shinobazu pond, the small island with a temple called Bentendo where I visited this time was created when Ueno Kaneiji temple was established in the 17th century. The pond has been a famous spot for lotus flowers.

       Kiyomizu Kannon-do where you can see the unique branch of pine tree was a part of buildings owned by Kaneiji temple. This unique pine tree was depicted in the picture in the 19th century as below. 

f:id:ITlover:20190830213821j:plain

     After the Meiji Restoration in the 19 century, Ueno became the public park and many museums and zoo were established. Now, Ueno is still one of the most famous leisure spot in Japan.

 

4. Information

・Closest stations to Shinobazu pond are Ueno-Hirokoji Station, Ginza Line and Ueno Station, Keihin-tohoku line.

・The time of lotus flowering is the middle of July to the end of August. Lotus basically bloom only in the morning.

・ Mihashi, a sweet shop is open from 10:30am to 21:30pm (last order is 21:00). Anmitsu with matcha ice-cream that I ordered is 650 yen.

goo.gl

goo.gl

goo.gl