Pictures of the Asakusa View Hotel.

We can see a lot of Tokyo sights from our room.

View from our hotel in Asakusa last night! Sensou-ji temple and Tokyo Skytree under a one-day-removed-from-full moon (there's probably a technical term for that).

Currently enjoying a bento on the Shinkansen. No action movie interruptions yet.

My Trip to Japan! ⛩️Part 1

LONG post. All of these series will be long AF.

9.12 ➡️ all dates are dd.mm

When we arrived at Tokyo-Haneda, I was down with a terrible cold. I dozed off quite a bit during the flight, but I was still exhausted. We left our luggage at the hotel near Shinbashi station and, after a rather forgettable lunch we strolled around fancy Ginza for a while. I soldiered on, but as we approached the Imperial Palace gardens, my body gave up, and we returned to the hotel. I stayed sleeping all afternoon. Husband, after a nap, went out to continue exploring the area and had dinner around there. Around 9 pm I ate some chocolates I happened to have, only to avoid taking the cold medicine on an empty stomach, but I wasn't hungry and went back to bed almost right away.

10.12

I had a relatively good night, with only a bit of coughing. We had breakfast at a nearby cafe and went to Ueno. We walked around the park a bit and visited the National Museum, as well as a couple of temples on the park grounds. From there, we walked to the Okachimachi area, where we had a very tasty and cheap fish lunch. Then, we took the Yamanote Line to visit the stairs of the Suga Temple: the ones at the end of Kimi no na wa. There were plenty of fans taking pictures, of course—though we were easily the eldest. (The stairs do not belong to the temple; the temple entrance is right there after you climb them)

After that, we headed to Shinjuku, and went up to the (free!) observation deck of the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building. It was already dark, so we were treated to the beautiful views of the the lit-up city.

On the way back, we passed by a Don Quijote. "Donki," as they call it, is a chain of cheap stores where they sell all kinds of things: snacks, drugstore, stationery, electronics, household items, accessories, even a sex shop section. It's a good place to get items from brands or characters at more economical prices than in the official stores of those franchises. I bought cute Ghibli and Sanrio stuff here, and in fact, the variety of Sanrio items was on par with some official brand stores I visited, and the letter sets I got here were better. Donki is a perdition: ontop pf price and variety, it's absolutely packed, and its labyrinthine structure makes it too easy to get lost inside, so getting out is more complicated than getting in.

11.12

We took the subway to Asakusa and visited Sensō-Ji, the oldest, they say, Buddhist temple in Tokyo. Plenty of souvenir stalls, amulets, and omikuji (fortunes). I left my omikuji tied to the bars set up for that purpose, as tradition dictates if the oracle is not favorable to the wish made; Husband asked for the same, but he got a good omen; looks like it's set up so that the gods always look good.

Also, I got my first goshuin. Goshuin is not a regular stamp; it consists of one or more stamps plus a calligraphed text bearing the temple name, date, and the deity there enshrined or a fragment of some sacred text. Depending on each location, they write it in front of you in a moment (and it'beautiful to see how they work) or make you leave your notebook while you do the tour, and they return it sealed at the end. I used the blank pages of my travel journal, but there are specific notebooks for collecting goshuin, and some temples only do the stamp on those. In those cases, they already offer the goshuin pre-stamped on loose papers. Prices range from ¥300 to ¥500; some more important temples offer several models and also special goshuin, double both in size and price.

From there I dragged Husband to the Solamachi shopping center for me to raid the Ghibli store. Don’t ask me what other shops are there. The mall itself being quite a maze, I didn’t have time to check for anything else. Since we were already there, we decided to go up to the Sky Tree tower. At ¥2000, it’s the most expensive entrance ticket we bought (save Ghibli Park). Despite the shitty weather, the view from 350 meters high was amazing.

Since the tower was out of schedule, we were a bit tight on time to get to the Ghibli Museum. It's on the outskirts of Tokyo, in a place called Mitaka.

We lunched some overpriced sandwiches and then went to the museum: What a beauty! The building, in the middle of the forest, has a distinct  Hundertwasser vibe. The entrance ticket contains a freaking, actual piece of film! Ours were from Ponyo and Howl’s moving Castle.

Photos are not allowed inside the museum, only in the gardens; while it’s a bummer, I can get it. Everything looks so amazing, circulation would be impossible if everyone was caught up taking pictures. The exhibit about the creative process and the colouring of the animation cells is so full of detail, you could spend the whole day inside. There’s also a room where they explore different animation techniques. if you’ve been to a ciname museum, you’ll likely know about most of them, but the fact that here they’re made with Ghibli cuteness in all its glory makes it absolutely wonderful. The Saturn cinema features shorts made especially for the museum. On the day we went there we got "Pandane to Tamago-hime," a beautiful fairytale whose MC, the supercute Egg Princess of the title, forever stole my heart. I bought a keychain doll of her in the shop (aptly named "Mamma, aiuto!," as one does want to just loot it all) and hung it from my backpack for the rest of the trip. We had tea in the Tuscany-inspired museum's cafe.

We returned to Tokyo and headed to Shibuya. We went up to an ridiculously expensive (¥1500 entrance with a drink – beer or soft nothing fancy) bar on the top floor of the Magnet building. Except for the views, the place had zero vibe, but well, that's what you get if you want to take a picture of the famous crossing from above.

On the sixth floor of the same building there’s was a One Piece store, I got the stamp, but I didn't buy anything. I'm not a fan of the post-time skip aesthetic, tbh. I think it’s worth mentioning that many train stations, businesses, and tourist spots in Japan have commemorative stamps available for visitors. A simple and totally free way to have a souvenir.

I was also floored by the overwhelming commercial density of the city. Any middle-of-the-road, six-metre-wide building hides a mini shopping centre inside, not like, a mall, but one or two businesses on each floor. Some even have businesses on the lower floors and residences above. It's mind-blowing.

We also passed by Daiso. Daiso is a famous ¥100 store chain. Real ¥100, not like pound stores, where half of the items cost more than that. They have everything, and everything costs ¥100. Cute stuff, too. Real licenced merch, not bootlegs. Plus all kinds of nice house and kitchen stuff. It's extremely difficult to resist buying everything.

12.12

The rain frustrated our morning plans; didn’t fancy getting wet when I was just recovering from the cold. At noon we went to Shinjuku, had lunch at inside the station and, 1:15 sharp, we departed by bus to Yamanakako, at the feet of Mt. Fuji. After settling into our Japanese-style room, we went to the private onsen we had reserved during check-in. This was the only bath we were in together, as public onsen and sento are segregated.  

13.12

The next day was cold but sunny. We took the bus to Oshinohakkai, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Oshino is the village, and the hakkai are a series of eight natural springs, hence the name (八海 combines the kanji for "eight" and "sea"), which have been revered since ancient times as sacred places where various gods reside. The place is beautiful, peppered with ponds from which tiny streams emerge, with carp and trout swimming, and Mount Fuji in the background, truly delightful.

We went back, bought some food at the konbini to have lunch in the hotel room, and then we hiked to a Shinto shrine on Ishiwari mountain. It was grueling for a couch potato like yours truly, but the struggle paid off, and the small shrine up there is an almost magical place, next to a sacred rock with a narrow crack through which, they say, if you pass three times, your wish will come true. We went down a different path that took us straight to the village onsen, perfect for relaxing after the physical effort.

14.12

After breakfast, we said goodbye to Yamanakako to take the bus to Mishima, from where we took the Shinkansen to Nagoya. Nagoya, however, didn't welcome us with open arms. The signage to the Sakuradori metro line was poor and and without a damn elevator or escalator, which is baffling in a station of that magnitude. After carrying the suitcases to the platform, we saw, by the signs for the exit for disabled people, that there was but one (1) elevator. To make matters worse, it was noon, and the restaurants were full, so went to the hotel to leave the suitcases first and then went out for lunch, already starving.

Belly full and content hearts, we walked to Nagoya Castle. The castle consists of two main pavilions, the castle itself (the defense tower, which was closed) and the Honmaru palace. The original was destroyed in World War II. Many paintings, however, were saved, although for preservation reasons, the ones exhibited are identical copies. The current castle was rebuilt in the fifties. The rooms were beautiful, with a minimalist luxury that stands out more when you think the castle is from the 17th century, and Europe was in full-on Baroque mode then. The city is very different from Tokyo. Wide, grid-like streets, downtown more aesthetically cohesive. More breathing room.

After the castle, we paraded through the main shopping streets of the city and briefly passed by Osu Kannon Temple; it was already dark, so we walked back, looking at shop windows, and had dinner at one of those places where you put coins in a machine, hand over the ticket, and they prepare the corresponding dish. Decadent vintage vibe, the food just passed, but it was an interesting experience.

Back at the hotel, we used their onsen, or rather sentō. As washing before entering is a requirement, and they provide soap, shampoo, and conditioner (ofc you may byo), we came out spick and span, and it meant we did not use our room shower at all either here nor later in Nara where we also had a sentō. Sounds like a smart move for the hotel to save water if you ask me.

There is SO much potential for a Devil’s Minion story set in Tokyo. Armand at his wildest, most inquisitive, playful and earnest and Daniel being his perfect partner in crime. And uhh yeah I’d like to hear more about the sexy toys vending machine 👀

It's extra good because being in a country where neither person can read or speak the language is the great equalizer. At last Daniel and Armand would be on the same playing field in some aspects.

But they would love it because the nightlife is endless there. You can find concerts and nightclubs and bars open literally 24/7 in any part of the city. There's not one street they'd walk down and find everything closed. Even when the trains stop running at 1 am there's taxis waiting to take you anywhere and for once in their lives they wouldn't have to hunt for a house party to go to because the party in Tokyo is always in public spaces and never private.

And the shopping. Good god the shopping. Every train station houses a giant multi level department store open until 9 or 10pm, full of staff bowing and bringing you anything and everything you touch. The clothing store clerks would love Armand. They would dress him up like a living doll and gush over how handsome Daniel is, and send them both out the door with bags and bags of beautifully wrapped things. And if it was festival season they would insist on putting Armand into a yukata and sweeping his auburn hair up with a kanzashi covered in dangling flowers.

(festival season would be the best, because the parades are lit by paper lanterns and run into the night. The fireworks? Insane. The little game booths? Armand would be fascinated. He'd catch tons of goldfish on the little rice paper fans and give them away to the children that have crowded around them)

Outside the stations they'd find Don Quixote, the seedy discount items store that sells everything from colored contacts to wine to hair dye. They have random small home appliances, lightly used luxury brand wallets and purses, makeup. The biggest variety of condoms you've ever seen in your life. And they're open 24 hours so Armand could look at stuff literally all night.

They'd spend one night at a high end hotel in Roppongi, with a view of Tokyo Tower. Another just outside the city where they can get a room with their own private onsen. And another-

Well, those seedy motels with no windows. Love Hotels, rented by the hour or all night. Perfect for the vampire and his mortal lover. You pick your room and pay at a machine without interacting with a human being at all. All of the rooms are themed, all of them have a giant bath tub with jets. All of them contain a vending machine full of toys. Vibrators, silicone toys meant to be fucked, you name it, they have it.

(and also most of them also contain tvs with some kind of game system, so when Armand isn't tormenting Daniel he'd be sitting on the edge of the bed playing pong)

Armand would love the goth kids in Harajuku. He'd befriend a gaggle of wasted salarymen in Asakusa. Somehow they would end up in a hostess club with every working girl there crowded around them, delighted by Armand and Daniel both and drinking champagne.

It's the wildest, weirdest week of Daniel's life and perhaps the one he loves most because it's all just fun that neither of them have ever encountered before. For once it's not just Armand discovering things but Daniel finding strange stuff to be fascinated with too, and they absolutely, positively must go back after he's turned.

I'm going on vacation to Japan next March (a bit too early for cherry blossoms tho) and i'm curious if you have recs for any pretty/cool places to visit outside of the regular tourist traps? Preferably stuff that's not too hard to reach from Tokyo. Nw if not 🙏

you might yet catch the blossoms tbh, they keep blooming earlier and earlier each year so if it's late march when you come here there's a chance. otherwise if you go down to kansai you could catch them there, if not plums were definitely already in bloom by like late february near the imperial palace in kyoto. in case you go to kyoto my go-to is fushimi inari, it's definitely on the touristy side but i love that place it's very nice. in tokyo the same could be said about asakusa, street full of overpriced bad quality garbage and tourists but i still love it for some reason, the view is nice, the reds are beautiful. otherwise it really depends on what you like?? if you hate crowds i'd say stray away from shibuya and harajuku, but if you don't mind them and like shopping and alternative fashion go to harajuku it's full of so much stuff. to buy. consoomer heaven. meiji jingu is right next to it and it's a nice place, it's a big forest-park good for a walk and there's. well. a shrine. but you saw one shrine you saw all of them (applies to any metropolitan too). likeee if you like drinking and going out it's shinjuku, if you like clubs it's roppongi, if you like weeb shit it's akihabara or ikebukuro, reaaaaally depends on your personal tastes! there's tons of museums, exhibitions, themed cafes... maybe go to a snake or owl cafe? since cat cafes seem to be a thing in other countries too. regardless though if you can spare the money i'd suggest going to hakone or other onsen spots, ryokan stays are always nice and so are hot springs ♨️. personally i found kamakura boring and uninspiring af so would say to not listen to the guides that keep telling you to go to its filthy beaches. and enoshima is just a patch of land with a bunch of stores on it not recommend 👎 tokyo skytree is a waste of time and money too. however mt fuji is nice, honestly mountains and forests and nature and the ocean are all so gorgeous but the catch is that they're far from the concrete jungles 😔anyway i hope you have a nice trip!!! stand on the left side of the escalator and walk on the left side of the street (in tokyo), do not talk on the phone on the train (ever), do not litter, do not be loud, do not throw your garbage into the trash cans next to vending machines (they're for bottles) (there's no trash cans for your garbage. either find a convenience store that has them or take it to your hotel room). exchange your money at the airport and don't tip anyone. nobody actually gives a fuck about how you eat tbh. have fun!!

Tokyo Day 2

I sweat, I did not forget about this blog. I have another solely for family and filling in that took a lot of time, apart from studying and doing everything else lol.

Anyway, let’s resume with my first travel before I arrived at school!

On my second day in Tokyo I didn’t meet any friend but ventured by myself. In the morning, after breakfast, I headed to Rikugien, a garden in northern Tokyo.

It was a nice day, sunshine and a few clouds. The garden itself was lovely, the cherry clossoms were still visible and the hidden paths were nice to explore.

After that I headed to Akihabara, to re-visit Kanda Myoujin, a shrine. Like the last time I’ve been there, the weather was crisp and clear, the cherry trees were blooming and the red of the shrine was marvellous. I think the shrine got even more popular, because there were lots of tourists. A lot more than expected. (Although, I did come from a garden that is not right in the very centre, so I guess that’s why? *shrugs*)

Once done, I felt my knee getting even worse. (Remember? Me climbing a mountain? Yeah... not good.) I took escalators and elevators whenever I could. Walking down stairs in the subway was already impossible.

I somehow managed to find my way to Asakusa, were I wanted to visit the smaller Asakusa Shrine! In Sensoji, there were... many people. Like, MANY people. It was hot and sticky and just annoying. I couldn’t walk well too, so after a while I walked along the side-paths, but there were also people. I somehow got to Asakusa Shrine in the end. Do not recommend, really.

Once I paid my visit to the gods and got a new Omamori, I walked towards the river and through the Sumida ward. It suddenly got very quiet once I left the premises of Sensoji, finally.

The river side was lovely, many cherry trees lined up along the water and many took the chance to sit there and have lunch. Me too, btw.

I watched the Sky Tree from the distance while eating (and evading the seats were all those seagulls and pigeons were lurking).

After lunch, I walked to the Sky Tree. My main aim was to go to the Jump Shop (for haikyuu!! merch), but ended up exploring some other shops. I also didn’t end up getting anything haikyuu related, but bought a sticker sheet from a science shop!

On my way back to the hotel, I stopped at Ginza, visited Itoya, a store with more than 8 stories specialised on stationary (I really recommend that! It has a lot, like: a LOT, and very lovely things), and went to the Kabuki theater while I was already in GInza.

Then I had some time left and thought to go to Ueno and the Tokugawa Shrine. Yet, once I went out and walked towards the Ueno Park, it became clear that I wouldn’t get far. My knee was about to collapse.

I walked back to the station and took a break in a konbini, where I found some stickers from the suica penguin!

Finally in the hotel, I rested my knee.

The Rikugien Garden.

The Asakusa Shrine.

View on the Sky Tree with cherry trees along the river.

Tuesday, May 14th, 2024

Ueno Park and Akihabara

Today began with a bit of a later start, beginning the day with a class meeting at 10, and I was grateful for the extra time to sleep in as we have had a lot of early mornings. The first item on the agenda was heading to Ueno park, which is a famous public park in Tokyo, and was established in 1873. The park is also a very popular spot to see cherry blossoms in full bloom, though we were too late to actually see them as they bloom in march usually, though seeing the cherry trees was still nice as I can still appreciate their beauty without the pink flowers.

We walked around the park for a while and passed by many cool looking vendors selling things from shaved ice to antique Japanese items, and I would have liked to look around some but we did not really have time, so I may go back on my own at some point. While here we saw the Benzaiten temple which looked very cool and was nice to see adjacent to the massive pagoda that resembled the one seen at Asakusa.

After this we walked over to the Tokyo National Museum of Art, which had tons of Japanese artwork dating back hundreds of years. It was fascinating to see all the different mediums, styles, and forms of art as they progressed over the years.

One piece of art that really resonated with me would have to be a piece called the “Album of Insects and Other Creatures: Winter” by Mashiyama Sessai which is pictured below. This resonated with me because I am a fan of this style of small sketches depicted with astonishing realism. The amount of detail and effort that went into these pieces to get them looking as good as a photograph must have taken years to master. I really appreciate this type of effort and am a big fan of the way that these look as if they are dead specimens sitting on a table being viewed. Though I can also appreciate creativity and different approaches to art, I have to give credit where it’s due and enjoy this Japanese style of realism, and when paired with little creatures I am even more of a big fan.

After the museum we all made our way to Ameyayokocho, which is a street/alley that was once a black market for selling and buying American products after World War 2 (hence the “Ame” part of the name). This area now has many restaurants and shops and is a nice place to walk around for a while. We then broke for lunch and some friends and I went to a restaurant that had some good looking pork bowl pictures on the outside walls so we decided to eat lunch here. We walked in and all ordered the same “Spicy Pork Bowl” which actually when translated is apparently meaning “Numbing” instead of spicy. They say that they put a numbing spice on the pork which will make your mouth tingly, and the waiter did the gesture of injecting novocaine into his mouth so we weren’t too sure what to expect. The pork was actually really tasty and I guess I was immune to the numbing as I didn’t feel any type of mouth sensation, though my friends were saying they felt a bit of a tingle while they were eating it so i’m not sure what that was all about. I also ordered a croquette which I was not super impressed with but it was tasty enough and i enjoyed it.

After eating we all made our way to Akihabara as a group to visit a few of the historical areas. Professor Smith explained that Akihabara started off as a collection of electronics stores selling things like radios and computer parts, but over time developed into a massive entertainment hub which many would consider the heart of anime and manga in Japan. We have already been to Akihabara many times though because it was close to our hotel so after class was done some friends and I decided to head to Shibuya to go to a few vintage and thrift stores and ended up in Harajuku, which is considered the fashion hub of Tokyo.

I shopped around for a bit but was disappointed to mostly find American clothes in the thrift stores. Though I suppose this makes sense as Japanese people would want vintage Americans clothes but I was hoping to find cool 90’s Japanese outfits. I was also curious how they get so much of these clothes, as they had things as random as shirt commemorating a Minnesota graduating class of 1989, which I would imagine would be hard to source being in Japan. After this we ate at a famous ramen place called “Ichiran Ramen” which is famous for being an exclusively single person experience. This is an introverts dream as you order from a vending machine which spits out a ticket, where you then walk inside and find an empty seat nestled between two walls separating you from those around you. There is a small gap in between the table and the wall to allow for the employees to serve you food and take your paper slip to know what you ordered, never even seeing the persons face who is serving you. You can also customize the spice level, the type of broth, the noodle hardness, and the garlic levels. Once they bring your food they close the small 10 inch gap and you can eat in peace all alone. The ramen was phenomenal and I left the place feeling full and having my social battery recharged.

After devouring the ramen we all headed back to the hotel and concluded the night.

Academic Reflection

Today in Akihabara I was able to see a bit about what the readings were talking about when they mentioned the "Otaku" culture. The word Otaku describes people who obsessively consume fictional interests, which most of the time includes anime, manga, video games or movies. These people often take it a step further than most and go the extra mile with their fandom. This, like I learned today can often be attributed to the fact that their interests are completely fictional, so they cannot really find a worldly way to attach themselves to it like many other people can with things like sports. These people then find ways to involve themselves, whether that be with fan art, fan books, or cosplay. These forms of expression often are looked down upon as they can get kind of weird. In Akihabara, amidst the many normal manga stores, there are some down basements that have some collections of more "Risque" works that the normal crowd would not necessarily ever even know exist. This was crazy to me to see that people would openly shop in these places and buy these books and magazines with no shame of other people seeing them do it, let alone the shame of buying it in the first place. Though I think this is just one major cultural difference between Japan and America, it seems that their view of sex is not as taboo as it is in America, which I suppose can be attributed to the lack of any real Christian influences in the east. Nontheless I was shocked to see how much of a hold that Otaku culture took on in Tokyo, and the sheer amount of Anime figurine shops was insane. Though after reading about the Otaku it was interesting to go to a place like Akihabara which seems to be such a direct descendant of this culture.

Day 3 - Japan Blog - 9 February 2024 Asakusa and Shinjuku at Night

Its day 3 already and we still havent found ourself a mascot. This is uncalled for. First point of call is to find our lil guy; we have chosen; it has BEEN chosen. Racaccoonie. A cute little thankful Racoon. He's coming with us for the rest of our adventures.

Today is shrine and tradition day -- or something like that. I have stayed in Asakusa but never been to Senso-ji temple or the Markets. I thought that would be a cool place to take Ben and do some exploring. Senso-ji is a buddist temple, not a shinto shrine like what most people think of when a Japanese temple comes to mind. 

I am starting to feel very sick, super under the weather so I am on the cold and flu medication (not Codral, because thats a no-no here!!) and we must "soldier on". It was ramen time. Time to get spicy and blow this sickness out of my head -- we stumped across this chinese style noodles place and seriously, it was the BEST ramen we had on the trip. It was so different and tasty and really good. Every component was perfect and we both enjoyed it. Adding it to my "list of food places" straight away.

After walking around the shrine and the markets that lead there, I wanted to find the "photo spot" which was in the information centre. We found a spicy chicken fillet place, which was incredible -- despite my sore throat hating the spice... then we had warm strawberry "sake". We found ourself on Orange Street which had some really cool and funky shops including one with lots of video game collectables -- and the Sanrio Store. At the information centre, you can go to the top floor and get an amazing view of the shopping street, Nakamise-Dori which leads up to the temple.

After relaxing here and soaking up the view; we decided to head to our next destination. Shinjuku.

I wanted to check out the Kabukicho Tower which was recently opened in 2023.

It was appalling. I would never say this about anything in Japan but uou can almost tell its a failing system from the start. The food places are confusing, I didnt know where one started and the other ended. The staff were not helpful and I felt very "judged" being here; despite it being a very "touristy" venue. There was a DJ and "vibes" were "popping". But, prices were exuberant and food was basic.

We decided to go upstairs and see the arcade which the tower showcases. Prices, again, super high for an arcade centre. However, there was a good selection of Gacha (no Godzilla!!) so we spent a bit of time here. The games seemed "rigged" as it was harder to win prizes, and the video games only gave us one attempt; where as other venues have had 2 or 3 games per "session".

I quickly realised that this isnt the place to be, so we made our way back to the hotel so I could rest.

(NOTE: Don't leave it past midnight to catch the trains back to your hotel, as the last train from Shinjuku doesn't go to Shinagawa and you will have to get off and walk the rest of the way. Not ideal in the cold, wet, and while sick!!) ...

A Help Guide Hue Downtown Activities

It was constructed during the Ming Dynasty and is known for its building made out of wood. This community is attracting many upscale resort hotels. Also check the Hall of Drums to discover some ingenious designs. The river's path together with countryside runs through varied landscape passing mountain peaks, and verdant tropical vegetation. As it passes the particular area it picks up flowers creating its own fragrance. Hence the name it so rightly has earned - Perfume Lake. View More: topthuathienhueaz.com - Top Thua Thien Hue AZ Reviewed by Team Leader in Top Thua Thien Hue AZ: Võ Tá Thành Minh - Vo Ta Thanh Minh Just walk down the path 5 minutes: you appear at a historical gate into your right, quite distinguishable using the surrounding high-rises. This is our first stop for your day. The temple of Asakusa Kannon one other called Sensoji, and appeared Tokyo's oldest and most impressive temple ground. The temple was completed in 645. The doorway to the Asakusa Kannon temple via the mighty Gate of Thunder, Kaminarimon. The actual temple grounds consist of this central temple was inbuilt with 1647 by Iemitsu Tokugawa.

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December Delights: Top 5 International Destinations for Indian Travelers!

Let’s dive into the top 5 international destinations to visit in December, tailored specifically for travelers from India.

1. Paris, France

How to Reach: Fly from major Indian cities like Delhi or Mumbai to Charles de Gaulle Airport in Paris. Direct flights are available with airlines like Air France, Emirates, and more.

Places to Visit: Eiffel Tower: Iconic and romantic, a must-visit especially at night when it sparkles.

Louvre Museum: Explore art and history, including the renowned Mona Lisa.

Notre Dame Cathedral: Admire the stunning architecture.

Montmartre: Wander through the charming streets, visit Sacré-Cœur Basilica.

Accommodation: 4/5 Properties:* Consider staying at Hotel Lutetia, Shangri-La Hotel Paris, or Le Meurice.

Indian Restaurants: Saravanaa Bhavan or Rasoï are excellent options for Indian cuisine.

Visa Details: Indian travelers need a Schengen Visa to visit France. Ensure you apply in advance.

2. Tokyo, Japan

How to Reach: Fly from major Indian cities like Delhi or Mumbai to Tokyo’s Narita or Haneda Airport. Airlines like Japan Airlines and ANA offer direct flights.

Places to Visit: Tokyo Disneyland & DisneySea: Experience the magic of Disney.

Asakusa: Visit Sensoji Temple and Nakamise Shopping Street.

Shibuya Crossing: Witness the bustling pedestrian scramble.

Tsukiji Fish Market: Discover fresh seafood and local delicacies.

Things to Do: Onsen Experience: Relax in traditional hot spring baths.

Explore Harajuku: Discover quirky fashion and street food.

Sumo Wrestling: Catch a sumo wrestling match if in season (January, May, or September).

Accommodation: 4/5 Properties:* Consider hotels like Park Hyatt Tokyo, Mandarin Oriental Tokyo, or The Peninsula Tokyo.

Indian Restaurants: Priya Indian Restaurant or Tokyo Tandoor serve authentic Indian flavors.

Visa Details: Indian travelers need a visa to visit Japan. Apply for a tourist visa in advance.

3. Dubai, UAE

How to Reach: Dubai is well-connected from major Indian cities with direct flights to Dubai International Airport offered by airlines like Emirates, IndiGo, and SpiceJet.

Places to Visit: Burj Khalifa: Experience the world’s tallest building.

The Dubai Mall: Shop and enjoy attractions like the Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo.

Desert Safari: Experience dune bashing and Bedouin culture.

Palm Jumeirah: Relax at luxurious resorts and enjoy water sports.

Things to Do: Ski Dubai: Enjoy skiing and snowboarding in the desert.

Dubai Fountain Show: Witness the mesmerizing fountain dance.

Cultural Experiences: Visit traditional souks for spices, gold, and textiles.

Accommodation: 4/5 Properties:* Stay at hotels like Burj Al Arab, Atlantis The Palm, or Address Downtown.

Indian Restaurants: Options like Indego by Vineet and Options by Sanjeev Kapoor offer delicious Indian cuisine.

Visa Details: Indian travelers can get a visa on arrival in Dubai or apply for an e-visa beforehand.

4. Sydney, Australia

How to Reach: Fly from major Indian cities to Sydney Kingsford Smith Airport with airlines like Qantas, Air India, and Singapore Airlines offering connecting flights.

Places to Visit: Sydney Opera House: Iconic architectural marvel.

Bondi Beach: Relax and soak up the sun.

Sydney Harbour Bridge: Climb or admire the views.

Taronga Zoo: Explore Australian wildlife.

Things to Do: Coastal Walks: Enjoy breathtaking views along coastal trails.

Explore Darling Harbour: Visit SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium or enjoy dining and entertainment.

Hunter Valley Wine Tour: Indulge in wine tasting at this renowned wine region.

Accommodation: 4/5 Properties:* Consider staying at The Langham Sydney, Park Hyatt Sydney, or Shangri-La Hotel Sydney.

Indian Restaurants: Zaaffran or Malabar South Indian Restaurant offer delectable Indian cuisine.

Visa Details: Indian travelers require a visa to visit Australia. Apply for a tourist visa in advance.

5. Bangkok, Thailand

How to Reach: Fly from major Indian cities to Suvarnabhumi Airport in Bangkok. Airlines like Thai Airways, Air India, and IndiGo offer direct flights.

Places to Visit: Grand Palace & Wat Phra Kaew: Explore Bangkok’s historic heart.

Chatuchak Market: Shop for unique souvenirs and goods.

Chao Phraya River: Take a river cruise and witness the city’s landmarks.

Bangkok’s Temples: Visit Wat Arun and Wat Pho.

Things to Do: Street Food Tour: Taste the vibrant flavors of Thai cuisine.

Thai Massage: Relax with traditional Thai massage therapies.

Floating Markets: Experience the lively atmosphere of markets on water.

Accommodation: 4/5 Properties:* Consider hotels like Mandarin Oriental Bangkok, The Peninsula Bangkok, or Anantara Riverside Bangkok Resort.

Indian Restaurants: Options like Rang Mahal or Charcoal Tandoor Grill & Mixology offer Indian delights.

Visa Details: Indian travelers can obtain a visa on arrival in Thailand for a short stay or apply for an e-visa beforehand.

Planning a December trip from India to these international destinations can offer a diverse range of experiences, from winter wonderlands to sunny beaches. Remember to check visa requirements and plan ahead for a memorable vacation. Whether you’re exploring Parisian streets or embracing the warmth of Dubai, these destinations promise an unforgettable holiday experience.

Day 13 Ikebukuro

This morning I very clearly noticed that exhaustion was catching up with me. My husband had left fairly early to grab some stuff he left at my brother's place, while I was left to snooze in bed. In the end it was nearly noon before I actually left the hotel, with the overwhelming feeling that, "I'm not feeling it today, I wanna go back to bed."

This truth of thia mood became extremely clear when it took me a few minutes too long to realize I could not find the train I wanted to take, because I was lurking around at the Asakusa Line platforms, rather than the Oedo Line platforms. To make it worse, I could not even reach the Oedo Line from my current location. Not without checking out of the station first!! (This is probably the first time I encountered a station that services two lines, but they are not connected in any way.) So, I had to explain to the staff member at the gates I messed up, and he kindly let me out and even gave me a (preprinted) tiny map with directions to the right entrance. Guess this thing happens more often...

On my way to Ikebukuro I was! Just to mess up again... I had to transfer and very diligently followed the signs to the Marunouchi Line. I took notice it said I had to turn right and immediately assumed this meant: turn right after the gates. Since I checked out after leaving the Oedo Line, it made sense to me that I needed to check in again, but... Nope, I should have turned before the gates! I was apparently still in a state of being checked-in, as far as the metro system was concerned. So... I suddenly found myself very much outside the station and had to shamefully turn around and check in again... Wasted about 60 yen there!

Eventually I did make it to Ikebukuro to do some shopping and it was nice to just browse around without my husband trailing behind me.

This trip also made me realize how our of touch I am with the recently popular series. I barely recognized anything in the animate (or other stores for that matter)! It did make my trip a pretty cheap one as a result! In the end I only bought a couple pokemon figures and some manga.

Around 5PM-ish I called it a day and returned to the hotel, grabbed some take out from the McD. (Husband was out eating with a friend.) Although I was very tempted to visit the Sukiya next door, to try the special nabe meal set they were advertising. Another time! I kinda felt like eating fastfood. And there still were some burgers I wanted to try. I wonder why it feels like the Japanese burger selection at McD is so much more suited to my tastes... And they are so cheap! 220 yen for a burger!? (Fine, they are a bit smaller than tje average burger here in the Netherlands... But still!)

Rest of the evening was spend messing around on my phone.

I didn't take any photos today, so... Please enjoy some photos I took the day before of the view from our hotel room!

Tokyo - Day 4

Afternoon tea at the Asakusa View Hotel.

View was spectacular even tho it was cloudy. Tea set leaves much to be deserved (too much sweet > savory) but overall, was nice.

Next stop, Asakusa Nekoen.

Everyone was sleeping by the time we got there and most were pretty distant and uninterested with interacting with strangers

But still managed to play with one of the black kitties.

And this is Rin-chan. She looks grumpy but she warmed up to me once I offered her tons of chin scritches and bum pats 🥰

Finally went up Tokyo Tower after visiting here…4 times already??

SkyTree has more activity but it’s prettier here.

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Tokyo

Tokyo is one of the most vibrant cities in the world, known for its culture, traditions, and modernity. It is a destination that has something to offer to everyone, from tourists to business travelers, and from families to solo adventurers. In this article, we will explore the different aspects of travel to Tokyo, including the best time to go, where to stay, what to eat, and what to see and do.

Best Time to Go

The best time to visit Tokyo is during the months of March to May and September to November, when the climate is mild and comfortable. The spring months of March to May are particularly charming, with cherry blossoms in full bloom, creating a magical atmosphere. The autumn months of September to November are equally enchanting, with colorful foliage creating a mesmerizing scenery. However, if you want to enjoy the winter sports, such as skiing and snowboarding, you can visit Tokyo during the months of December to February.

Where to Stay

Tokyo offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit every budget and preference. From luxurious hotels to budget-friendly hostels, Tokyo has it all. However, it is important to choose a location that is convenient and accessible to the places you wish to visit. Some of the popular areas to stay in Tokyo includes:

Shinjuku: Shinjuku is a vibrant district in Tokyo, famous for its lively nightlife and entertainment options. It is also home to many shopping malls, restaurants, and cultural attractions.

Ginza: Ginza is a high-end district in Tokyo, known for its luxurious shopping malls, upscale restaurants, and exclusive nightclubs. It is an ideal location for those who love to indulge in luxury.

Shibuya: Shibuya is a trendy district in Tokyo, famous for its fashion boutiques, entertainment options, and lively atmosphere. It is an ideal location for those who want to experience the youth culture and fashion scene of Tokyo.

Asakusa: Asakusa is a historic district in Tokyo, known for its cultural landmarks, such as Sensoji Temple and the Nakamise Shopping Street. It is an ideal location for those who want to immerse themselves in the rich history and culture of Tokyo.

What to Eat

Tokyo is a food lover's paradise, offering a wide variety of cuisine to suit every taste bud. From traditional Japanese cuisine to international dishes, Tokyo has it all. Here are some of the must-try dishes in Tokyo:

Sushi: Sushi is a traditional Japanese dish made of fresh raw fish and vinegared rice. It is a must-try dish in Tokyo, as the city is famous for its sushi restaurants. Some of the popular sushi restaurants in Tokyo include Sukiyabashi Jiro, Sushi Saito, and Kyubey.

Ramen: Ramen is a popular Japanese noodle soup dish, made with wheat noodles, broth, and different toppings. Tokyo has many ramen restaurants, each offering a unique style of ramen. Some of the popular ramen restaurants in Tokyo include Ichiran, Afuri, and Ippudo.

Tempura: Tempura is a traditional Japanese dish made of seafood, vegetables or meat, coated in batter and deep-fried. It is a popular dish in Tokyo, and many restaurants specialize in tempura. Some of the popular tempura restaurants in Tokyo include Tenko, Daikokuya, and Tenshin.

What to See and Do

Tokyo is a city that has something for everyone, from traditional cultural attractions to modern entertainment options. Here are some of the must-see attractions in Tokyo:

Tokyo Tower: Tokyo Tower is a landmark structure in Tokyo, standing at 333 meters tall. It is a popular tourist attraction, offering panoramic views of the city from its observation deck. The tower also houses a museum, restaurants, and shops.

Sensoji Temple: Sensoji Temple is a historic Buddhist temple in Tokyo, dating back to the 7th century. It is a popular tourist attraction, known for its traditional architecture, cultural artifacts, and souvenir shops.

The Imperial Palace: The Imperial Palace is the residence of the Emperor of Japan and his family. It is a historic landmark in Tokyo, surrounded by a beautiful park and gardens. Visitors can take a guided tour of the palace to learn more about the history of the imperial family.

Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden: Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden is a stunning park in Tokyo, famous for its cherry blossoms, autumn foliage, and traditional Japanese gardens. It is an ideal location for a picnic or a relaxing stroll.

Tokyo Disneyland: Tokyo Disneyland is a popular amusement park in Tokyo, designed to be similar to the original Disneyland in California. It offers a range of rides, attractions, and entertainment options, suitable for all ages.

Conclusion

Tokyo is a destination that offers a unique blend of tradition and modernity, attracting visitors from all over the world. The city offers a wide range of cultural attractions, culinary delights, and entertainment options, making it an ideal destination for everyone.

Tobu Hotel offers "Nationwide Travel Support" plans at 6 hotels in Tokyo. Asakusa and Kinshicho hotels are available with the "Motto Tokyo" program for even more savings!

Tobu Hotel offers “Nationwide Travel Support” plans at 6 hotels in Tokyo. Asakusa and Kinshicho hotels are available with the “Motto Tokyo” program for even more savings!

Tobu Hotel Management Co., Ltd. will release nationwide travel support “TADAIMA TOKYO PLUS” plans for official Web reservations only at its six hotels in Tokyo on November 1, 2012, at 12:00 pm. The period of stay is from November 3 to December 21 for check-outs. The target hotels are as follows Courtyard Marriott Ginza Tobu Hotel (6-14-10 Ginza, Chuo-ku, Tokyo) AC Hotel by Marriott Tokyo Ginza…

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ASAKUSA , TOKYO