Townscapes and Area in Japan
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Among the many sightseeing spots in Japan, we will introduce those related to Townscapes and Area by prefecture.
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Table of contents
Hokkaido Prefecture
Otaru Canal is a picturesque and historic waterfront area, featuring beautifully preserved warehouses and gas lamps that evoke a nostalgic atmosphere. As a popular tourist destination, the canal offers scenic boat rides, charming shops, and delightful cafes. In the evenings, the illuminated canal creates a romantic ambiance, perfect for leisurely strolls.
Biei, situated in Hokkaido, Japan, is renowned for its stunning landscapes featuring rolling hills, vibrant flower fields, and picturesque farms. Visitors can immerse themselves in the tranquil beauty of the region by exploring scenic routes like Patchwork Road and Panorama Road. Additionally, the iconic Blue Pond and Shirogane Onsen offer serene escapes for relaxation and rejuvenation.
Tokyo Prefecture
The Shibuya Scramble Crossing is famous as an intersection where a large number of people cross all at once when the pedestrian signal turns green. It's often featured in media and foreign films, and as a representative scene of Japan, it's popular among tourists from abroad. Consequently, there are many people taking photos and videos. There are also spots where you can capture the Shibuya Scramble Crossing from an overhead perspective.
Takeshita Street is a shopping district that extends from Harajuku Station to Meiji Street, featuring an array of small and unique stores mainly dealing with fashion, knick-knacks, and sweets for young people. Along with the adjacent Meiji Street and Omotesando, it has become a hotspot for the latest trends, attracting tourists not only from Japan but also from abroad.
Odaiba, officially known as the "Tokyo Waterfront Subcenter", is an area filled with shopping and amusement facilities. Additionally, you can enjoy water activities and picnics in the parks facing Tokyo Bay, making it a great place to spend a full day. The view of the sunset and nighttime scenery from Odaiba Seaside Park is also incredibly beautiful.
Akihabara, also known as Akiba, is a Tokyo district known for its electronics shops and a stronghold of Otaku culture, offering manga, anime, and video game stores. It boasts Yodobashi Camera, the largest electronics store globally, and is lined with themed cafes. The area comes alive especially on Sundays when the central Chuo Dori street is closed to cars, and pop culture enthusiasts gather in numbers.
Kanagawa Prefecture
Yokohama Chinatown is Japan's largest Chinatown, offering a vibrant and colorful experience filled with authentic Chinese cuisine, unique shops, and lively atmosphere. Visitors can explore the bustling streets adorned with traditional red lanterns, ornate gates, and intricate architecture. The area hosts various cultural events and celebrations throughout the year, making it an exciting and memorable destination for tourists seeking a taste of Chinese culture in Japan.
Minato Mirai 21 is a vibrant waterfront district that offers a perfect blend of modern architecture, shopping, and entertainment. Its iconic skyline, featuring the symbolic Yokohama Landmark Tower, provides a stunning backdrop for visitors to explore. From world-class amusement parks to captivating museums, Minato Mirai promises an unforgettable experience for all ages and interests.
Aichi Prefecture
Osu Shopping Street is a large shopping street located south of the Sakae area in the center of Nagoya, stretching from Osu Station to Kamimaezu Station. Approximately 1,200 stores of various kinds line the street, and stores where you can eat and drink are very popular. Osu Kannon and Osu Engeijo, where performers from East and West gather, are also nearby. Various annual events, especially the Osu Summer Festival in summer and the Osu Odou Machijin Festival in October, are enjoyed by local residents and tourists alike.
Gifu Prefecture
Shirakawa-go is a UNESCO World Heritage site, renowned for its traditional thatched-roof farmhouses and picturesque mountain scenery. Experience the unique Gassho-style architecture and immerse yourself in the rural, tranquil atmosphere of this historic village. Seasonal beauty, such as cherry blossoms in spring and snow-capped landscapes in winter, adds to its captivating charm.
Hida Takayama, often called "Little Kyoto," enchants visitors with its well-preserved Edo-period streets and historic merchant houses. Explore the Hida Folk Village, an open-air museum displaying traditional architecture and crafts, and savor the local Hida beef, a culinary delight. Experience Japanese culture and history firsthand in this charming, picturesque town nestled amidst the scenic Hida Mountains.
Magome-juku is a beautifully preserved post town along the historic Nakasendo Trail in Japan, featuring traditional Edo-period architecture and stunning mountain scenery. Visitors can enjoy leisurely strolls along the picturesque stone-paved path, exploring quaint shops, cafes, and museums. Experience the charm of old Japan with a stay at a traditional ryokan, and savor the local cuisine in this serene and timeless location.
Nagano Prefecture
Tsumago-juku is a beautifully preserved post town in Nagano Prefecture, Japan, offering visitors a unique glimpse into the Edo period. Stroll down the charming streets lined with traditional wooden buildings, shops, and inns, and experience the authentic atmosphere of old Japan. Nearby attractions such as the Nakasendo Trail and the Tsumago Castle Ruins make Tsumago-juku an ideal destination for history enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
Narai-juku, a beautifully preserved post town in Nagano Prefecture, transports visitors back to the Edo period with its traditional wooden buildings and atmospheric streets. As a key stop along the historic Nakasendo Trail, it offers a unique glimpse into Japan's past. Wander the charming streets, sample local delicacies, and soak up the history in this enchanting destination.
Kyoto Prefecture
Gion, located in the Higashiyama Ward of Kyoto City, is a traditional district of arts and culture where the old-world charm of Kyoto is strongly preserved. Especially in Hanamikoji Street and the Shirakawa area, it is known for its scenic townscape lined with maiko, tea houses, and old townhouses. Furthermore, the Gion Festival, held every July, is one of the three major festivals in Japan and is famous for attracting a large number of tourists.
The Philosopher's Path is a scenic walk of about 2 kilometers located in Sakyo Ward, Kyoto. Its name comes from an episode where Kitaro Nishida, a philosopher from the Showa era, used to stroll and ponder here. Known also for its cherry blossom trees, it is a beautiful place where full-bloom sakuras can be observed in the spring. Along the way, there are numerous temples and cafes, making it an ideal spot to spend time leisurely.
Wakayama Prefecture
Mount Koya is a sacred site of Shingon Buddhism located in the northern part of Wakayama Prefecture. It was founded in 816 by Kobo Daishi as a meditation dojo. Located in a basin at an altitude of about 850m and surrounded by mountains, the area is referred to as Mount Koya because the mountain name of Kongobuji Temple is Mount Koya. In addition to many famous sites such as Okunoin and Danjo Garan, Mount Koya offers the experience of staying in temple lodgings, known as shukubo, where visitors can partake in shojin-ryori and engage in activities like sutra copying.
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( Written by Tatsuo Ikura )
