Houkokuji Temple
This Kamakura temple received a three-star rating in the Michelin Green Guide Japan, a tourist guidebook aimed at overseas visitors to Japan.
The architecture really has that Japanese Zen vibe. The peaceful and quiet environment is perfect for a slow stroll.
Vegan Plant-based Pucchin Pudding
"Plant-based Pucchin Purin" is part of the "Pucchin Purin" series, which has long been loved since first being sold in 1972. The pudding is made entirely with plant-based ingredients and does not contain any animal products.
You can buy this at convenience stores everywhere, and it's really tasty!
Namba Yasaka Shrine
”Namba Yasaka Shrine”, located in the Namba area of Minami in Osaka, is a historic shrine said to have been founded during the reign of Emperor Nintoku (313-399).
Namba Yasaka Shrine is a small shrine in a residential area. As soon as you enter the gate, you can see the huge lion's mouth—it's even bigger and more impressive than I expected! This shrine is said to ward off bad luck and bring good fortune!
Umeda Sky Building / Kuchu Teien Observatory
The 40-story, twin super high-rise was completed in 1993. The two towers are connected on top. In England, it was selected into the “Top 20” list of world buildings as a thrilling skyscraper. The beauty of the building itself is part of its popularity. On the 3rd floor, there is a gate for the elevators to shoot you up to the 35th floor.
We took the elevator straight up to the 40th-floor observatory. The view from up there is stunning! After that, we went down to the 39th floor, where there are lots of souvenirs to buy and a café to relax in. Visiting here was totally worth it!
HEP FIVE
“HEP” stands for “Hankyu Entertainment Park”, where “entertainment” has both meanings; “entertainment” as well as “hospitality”. It was founded in November 1998 aiming to create a place where we serve hospitality which makes people want to visit again and again. When the bright red ferris wheel first appeared in the middle of the city, it became a hot topic because it was the world’s first ferris wheel which is a part of the building and equipped with air conditioning. Since then, it became a landmark of Umeda.
The HEP FIVE Ferris wheel is a real landmark in Umeda. If you're out shopping here, definitely hop on for a ride. In just 15 minutes, you get an amazing view of Osaka all around you.
Tower of Osaka Castle
Toyotomi Hideyoshi, who unified the country during the Azuchi-Momoyama period (1568-1600), began construction of the tower of Osaka Castle in 1583 and completed it in 1585. The castle was later destroyed during the Osaka Natsu no Jin（summer campaign of Osaka） in 1615, but was rebuilt by the Tokugawa Shogunate in 1626. However, the castle keep was destroyed by lightning in 1665. In 1931, the castle tower of the Toyotomi period was reconstructed with donations from Osaka citizens.
It takes almost 15 minutes to walk from the castle gate into Osaka Castle. The walls are really tall! Luckily, we used the Osaka Amazing Pass, so we could get into the castle quickly without waiting in line. Plus, unlimited subway rides—such a great deal!
Aoshima Shrine
Aoshima is a small island of 1.5km in circumference, which is connected with a 150m-long bridge to the main island. The whole island is Aoshima Shrine’s ground. As a holy island, no one was allowed to visit here. The whole premises are covered with areca trees and other sub-tropical plants in a very Miyazaki-like tropical scenery.
The coastline here is really unique. Besides people playing in the water, you'll also see surfers catching waves.
Kazuemachi Chaya-Gai District
Along with Higashi Chaya-gai district and Nishi Chaya-gai district, this is one of Kanazawa's three Chaya-gai districts. The area has a calm atmosphere with narrow alleys and Senbongoushi lattice fences along the Asanogawa River. It has been selected as a national Important Preservation District for Groups of Traditional Buildings.
I kept wanting to stay longer—it's just so hard to leave!
Ochanomizu sola city
Opened in April 2013, Ochanomizu sola city is a large multi-purpose complex located in the Ochanomizu area, known for its historical scenery. The complex is easily accessible, situated near the Kanda River and just a short walk from Ochanomizu Station. The 23-story building primarily houses offices but also includes conference rooms, shops, restaurants, and exhibition facilities, making it a hub for business professionals.
There are lots of restaurants here, so it's super convenient for grabbing a bite!
Mishima Skywalk
Opened in 2015, the 400m long suspension bridge is the longest pedestrian suspension bridge in Japan. It spans the Hakone Seiroku at an altitude of about 415 meters, with a drop of 70 meters. From the bridge, you can see Mt. Fuji, the highest mountain in Japan, and Suruga Bay, the deepest bay in Japan, so together with the longest suspension bridge in Japan, you can see the 3 tops of Japan from one place.
This is the longest suspension bridge in Japan. Walking across it really takes a lot of courage.