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Osu Kannon Temple in Nagoya is one of Japan’s three major Kannon temples. Besides its centuries-old history, its location is very convenient for travelers on a short visit to this bustling area. The surrounding Osu shopping streets are divided into many sections, offering everything from food and vintage toys to the latest fashions and electronics. Even without an itinerary, once you step onto the shopping streets, you’ll naturally follow the crowds and see where your feet take you. It truly is a must-visit attraction. Highly recommended!

Besides the commonly recommended spots in Tokyo during cherry blossom season, Sakura Jingu is a highly recommended place to see early-blooming cherry blossoms. From Shibuya, take the train to Sakura-shimmachi Station, and it’s just a short walk from there. Of course, besides the beautiful cherry blossoms, the main highlights are the limited-edition omamori charms and goshuin stamps. There’s always a line during cherry blossom season, so I recommend arriving early. The wait is usually over an hour. If you don’t want to wait in line, you can also draw an omikuji fortune. It has a square design with a bell inside and can also be used as a decoration or souvenir.

With a history of about 1,400 years, Zenkoji Temple is definitely a must-visit attraction when visiting Nagano Prefecture. It is a heritage site that combines history and religious culture. You can take a bus from Nagano Station. Shops line both sides of the approach leading to Zenkoji Temple. If you come in the afternoon, you can take a leisurely walk from the Niomon Gate to the Sanmon Gate, and then you’ll see Zenkoji Temple’s principal image. For souvenirs, the BEAMS limited-edition Zenkoji items are worth checking out. They feel like special regional collectibles, so travelers who like that sort of thing should definitely add them to their list. Visitors gradually start leaving Zenkoji Temple around 4–5 p.m. If you’re not in a hurry to leave, you can walk back along the approach in front of the temple, where there are also quite a few places to eat, bringing a perfect half-day itinerary to a close.

The Kanto region has Tokyo Tower and Tokyo Skytree, and when visiting the Chubu region, you definitely shouldn't miss Chubu Electric Power MIRAI TOWER. Located by Hisaya-odori subway station, it stands 180 meters tall. Although it isn't the tallest tower in Japan, it is an important landmark in the Chubu region and a must-visit spot for night views.

The tower is in Hisaya-odori Park, with a pond in front of it where events are held from time to time. There are shops and restaurants on both sides. The scenery is completely different during the day and at night, making it a great place to have afternoon tea or enjoy dinner and a walk in the evening. At night, mist rises from the park's pond, and the atmosphere and scenery will have you taking plenty of memorable photos with your phone or camera. If you're in Nagoya's Sakae area, remember to stop by for a walk.

The Sakae shopping district is a top choice for accommodations when visiting Nagoya. Transportation is convenient, and the area from Hisaya-odori Station through Sakae Station to Yabacho Station is lined with department stores, shopping centers, restaurants, and more. Sakae Station is the liveliest part of the area, and you can walk around and browse at night. The Ferris wheel is quite beautiful at night, but the area near Don Quijote attracts a more mixed crowd after 11:00 p.m., so be mindful of your personal safety and belongings. South of Sakae is where many department stores are concentrated. If it's your first visit, you can stay at a hotel south of Sakae. Prices are a little higher, but you won't have to worry about finding places to eat or shop.