The castle is seriously impressive—one look and you can tell it used to be a big-deal landmark.
Tsurugajo Castle | Review by Jason Chan
Other Reviews by Jason Chan
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Toki no Kane (Time Bell Tower)
Although only about an hour from central Tokyo, Kawagoe offers charming historic streetscapes. One of the city’s best-known attractions is Toki no Kane, a prominent landmark rising above a street lined with traditional kurazukuri storehouses. The three-story wooden tower stands approximately 52 feet tall. Its bell rings four times a day-at 6:00 a.m., noon, 3:00 p.m., and 6:00 p.m.-to mark the time.
The whole street has a real Edo-period vibe. Super photogenic and full of character.
The shopping street feels pretty local too—not just touristy stuff. -
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Tenryu-ji Temple
This is the head temple of the Tenryuji sect of the RInzai school. It was founded by Ashikaga Takauji in 1339, during the early Muromachi period, in memory of Emperor Go-daigo, with Muso Kokushi (the eminent Zen master Muso Soseki) appointed as founding abbot.
The garden is insanely beautiful—there’s something to see in every season. The fall colors must be unreal.
Sitting on the tatami and looking out at the garden feels so calming. I could zone out there forever. -
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Nakatanido
The lively shout of "Haiyo!" kicks off the action, followed by the rhythmic "pachi, pachi!" of pounding mochi echoing through the air. As the pace intensifies dramatically, the crowd erupts into cheers. Famous for its lightning-fast mochi pounding performances, Nakatanido is not just putting on a show-it's showcasing a traditional technique from the owner's hometown of Kamikitayama Village in Nara Prefecture, which produces exceptionally soft and chewy mochi.
The mochi is super chewy and soft. The red bean filling isn’t overly sweet, so it tastes really well balanced.
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