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.
The Time Bell Tower (Toki no kane) | Review by Jason Chan
Other Reviews by Jason Chan
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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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Tsurugajo Castle
The castle is a cherry blossom viewing spot and the symbol of Aizu Wakamatsu City. Its official name is Wakamatsu Castle, and it is also sometimes called Aizu Castle or Aizu Wakamatsu Castle. The castle tower, the only one in Japan covered with red tiles, preserves the beautiful appearance of the castle in the feudal era.
The castle is seriously impressive—one look and you can tell it used to be a big-deal landmark.
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