The gassho-style houses in Shirakawa-go really make it feel like you’ve stepped into a fairy tale. The wood and thatched roofs feel so warm, and with the mountain views and little streams, the whole place has such a great vibe. The other seasons each have their own charm too.
Walking slowly through the village, you naturally start to slow down yourself. It’s a perfect place to quietly take it all in on your own.
Shirakawa-go (Historic Village) | Review by 范慈茜
Other Reviews by 范慈茜
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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.
The whole alley has such a strong Showa-era vibe. It’s small, but really lively—like stepping into a scene from an old Japanese movie.
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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”.
It feels like two completely different worlds during the day and at night. At night, Kabukicho has more character and feels more "real."
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Kinokuniya Books Shinjuku Main Store
Standing along Shinjuku Dori, at the East Exit of Shinjuku Station, is Kinokuniya, a major bookseller. Since its establishment in 1927, it has been a mainstay of Shinjuku, supporting its development in shopping. Completed in 1964, the current Kinokuniya Building wash chosen as a building of historical value by the Tokyo Metropolitan Government in 2017.
This place is seriously huge, and the selection is almost ridiculously extensive. You can find books in Chinese, English, and Japanese, and the stationery and magazine sections are great too. It’s more than just a bookstore.
There are also lots of Japan-only items, so it’s a perfect spot if you want to slow down and spend some quiet time browsing. -
