Mukojima-Hyakkaen Gardens
Mukojima-Hyakkaen Gardens is a public urban garden where flowers bloom across all four seasons with the flourishing sense of real Japanese aesthetic. Located near iconic Tokyo landmarks such as the Tokyo Skytree and Sensoji Temple, it's a perfect spot for a leisurely stroll along the Sumida River.
The entrance fee isn't expensive, and there are so many kinds of flowers to see. There's also a teahouse where you can sit and have something to eat.
JRA Tokyo Racecourse
"Nippon Derby", "Tenno Sho (Fall)", and "Japan Cup" are just a few of the big horse races held at this large-scale racecourse. Since its completion in 1933, countless races between famed horses have been held here to the delight of their many fans.
Spent JPY 200 on the ticket and got to experience the exciting and intense atmosphere of horse racing! 😁
Mt. Seiryu Kichijoji Temple
Kichijoji Temple is a Zen temple of the Rinzai sect located in Gunma Prefecture’s village of Kawaba. It is also known as “Hanadera,” or “flower temple.” After passing through the irimoya (hip-and-gable) roofed temple gate, before you stands the majestic main hall.
There are hundreds of types of flowers planted in the temple grounds. You can enjoy different blooms except in winter. I especially love the Japanese garden inside, which has a strong Zen vibe.
Hitsujiyama Park
At the foot of Mt. Buko, the symbol of Chichibu, between Chichibu and Yokoze sits the sprawling shibazakura (moss phlox) hills at Hitsujiyama Park. This coveted destination draws tourists to Chichibu every year in Spring between mid-April and Golden Week in May.
During flower season, the roads nearby get super congested, which ended up wasting a lot of time.
Banshozan Souzenji
From Kiryu’s city center, head west towards a mountainous region. Enveloped by abundant nature, you will find Banshozan Souzenji, a Buddhist temple that has been designated as a Green Space Environmental Conservation Area by Gunma Prefecture. Its beautiful scenery in all seasons, such as spring greenery and fall foliage, is one of this temple’s charms.
The autumn leaves were absolutely beautiful, and the temple's goshuin stamps are really nice to collect.
Kinchakuda
The Koma River is a clear stream that flows through the western part of Hidaka City, Saitama Prefecture. Surrounded by this river, the flatland that has been shaped like a skirt over a long period of time is called "kinchakuda".
The red spider lilies usually bloom around September and October, but the season is really short. If you want to visit, make sure to plan your timing carefully.
Kawagoe Festival Museum
Kawagoe Matsuri Kaikan is a facility that introduces the history and highlights of the Kawagoe Festival, one of the three major festivals held in Saitama every October. The building has two floors. On the first floor, you can see how the festival is prepared and the thoughts of the people involved.
Inside the museum, you can really feel the lively atmosphere of the Kawagoe Festival through the videos they show.