Bius's Reviews

Takashima Koyomi

Shinseikan Takashima Koyomi is more than just a yearly calendar-it is a publication that offers insights deeply connected to daily life in Japan, including fortunes, seasonal words, and other culturally significant information. Originally conceived by Takashima Shomyo, It has been published continuously for over 75 years since its first edition in 1950, following the guiding philosophy: “Bringing rhythm and richness to everyday life through calendars.”

Faith, Spirituality & Customs

9 Oct 2025 See More

I always compare it with the traditional farmer’s almanac. If the two say different things, I just pick whichever one looks better to me. 😆

Yasaka Shrine

The shrine’s deities are Susanoo-no-Mikoto, Kushiinadahime-no-Mikoto, and Yahashira-no-Mikogami, and it is the head shrine of approximately 2,300 Yasaka Shrine and related shrines with Susanoo-no-Mikoto enshrined scattered throughout Japan.

Gion, Higashiyama, Yamashina
Shrines & Temples

16 Mar 2022 See More

Beautiful shrine! Every summer, they hold the Gion Festival here for a whole month.

Omoide Yokocho

Walk just 2 minutes from the West Exit of Shinjuku Station to find yourself at a retro pub alley. With ticket shops and around 80 different establishments offering delicious food and drinks, it's a great place to enjoy the local cuisine and atmosphere.

Shinjuku, Okubo, Yoyogi, Yotsuya
Shopping Streets

15 Mar 2022 See More

Every place here has its own special dishes, and everything tastes great.

Kabukicho

Kabukicho is the entertainment district that sits just steps from the east exit of Shinjuku Station. It’s a major hub for izakaya pubs, amusement centers and nightlife spots to enjoy after hours. With neon signs lit up through the entire night, it’s earned the nickname of “the city that never sleeps”.

Shinjuku, Okubo, Yoyogi, Yotsuya
Shopping Streets

15 Mar 2022 See More

It's mostly foreign tourists here—Japanese people don't really come, maybe because the area isn't that safe.

Inagura Rice Terraces

The view of the Northern Alps, the Yatsugatake mountain range, and the Utsukushi plain, as well as the cityscape of Ueda and the terraced paddy fields of various sizes and shapes, is breathtaking in all seasons.

Nagano
Nature Spots

15 Mar 2022 See More

I passed by here while driving in Nagano and found it so unique that I had to stop and enjoy the terraced fields and beautiful scenery.

Meiji Jingu Gaien (Outer Garden)

Meiji Jingu Gaien, the outer park of Meiji Shrine, was established in 1926. It features the Meiji Memorial Picture Gallery and various sports facilities, such as the Meiji Jingu Stadium, where you can enjoy nature throughout the four seasons.

Aoyama, Omotesando, Harajuku
Parks & Gardens

15 Mar 2022 See More

Harajuku Station looks totally refreshed and so beautiful now!

SAPHIR ODORIKO

This express sightseeing train runs the route from Tokyo/Shinjuku down to Izukyu-Shimoda. The name Saphir comes from the word Sapphire, and points to the gorgeous blue sea and skies as they zip by. The Saphir ODORIKO train itself has a blue wrap, hinting at the treasures that await on your gem of a trip.

Shizuoka
Trains & Subway

15 Mar 2022 See More

It was awesome to enjoy a meal while taking in the coastal scenery from the sightseeing train. If I get the chance, I definitely want to try the Shiki-shima train in eastern Japan too.