On this visit to Jindaiji Temple in Tokyo, what I liked most was the quiet atmosphere and abundant greenery. Walking along the approach, you can admire the traditional temple architecture and feel its rich history. After getting tired from exploring, I tried the famous Jindaiji soba nearby. It was light and delicious, making the trip even more satisfying. After visiting in person, I think Jindaiji Temple is a great place for a stroll, good food, and relaxation.
Jindaiji Temple | Review by Gina C
Other Reviews by Gina C
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Sagano Bamboo Grove Trail
The delightful scenery attracted noble families and poets who built their homes in Sagano. Sagano bamboo trail spans about 400m (437 yards) from Nonomiya Shrine, via Tenryuji Temple’s north gate to Okochi Sanso cottage.
In Arashiyama, Kyoto, what I was looking forward to most was walking along the Sagano Bamboo Grove Trail. Towering bamboo stretches along both sides, with sunlight filtering through the leaves. Walking through it really feels like suddenly entering another world. Although there are quite a few visitors, the overall atmosphere is still very pleasant.
Strolling slowly along the path, looking up at the dense bamboo, you can hear the leaves rustling when the wind blows. The scenery is really beautiful. The iconic section of the bamboo trail is especially great for taking photos, and every angle has a distinctly Kyoto feel.
After actually walking through it, I felt that this is more than just a photo spot. It’s also a great place to slow down. I recommend coming earlier, when there are relatively fewer people and it’s easier to take photos.
If you’re planning a day trip to Arashiyama, the Sagano Bamboo Grove Trail is definitely worth adding to your itinerary. Visit it together with Tenryuji Temple and Togetsukyo Bridge, and a leisurely walk around the area will let you experience the classic atmosphere of Kyoto.
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Enoshima Shrine
Enoshima Shrine is premier and venerable shrine on Enoshima Island known for holding events year around. Counted among Japan's three greatest Benzaiten (goddesses of wealth) shrines, it consists of three individual shrines: Hetsumiya, Nakatsumiya, and Okutsumiya. These shrines are said to bestow blessings for matchmaking, monetary fortune, and improvement in performing arts.
When visiting Enoshima, you definitely shouldn't miss Enoshima Shrine. As you make your way up the island's steps, you can really feel the atmosphere of a traditional Japanese shrine. The shrine is divided into Hetsumiya, Nakatsumiya, and Okutsumiya. Hetsumiya is the easiest to reach, and there are also plenty of small shops and souvenir stores to browse along the way.
The streets of Enoshima are full of island charm, with many unique little shops on both sides. You can visit the shrines, take a stroll, and occasionally stop to enjoy the scenery. The whole experience feels very leisurely.
I think Enoshima Shrine is especially well suited for a relaxed half-day visit. It's not just about visiting the shrine—the streets, ocean views, and unique atmosphere of Enoshima along the way are all worth experiencing.
If you're traveling around Kamakura or the Shonan area, I highly recommend adding Enoshima to your itinerary. After visiting Enoshima Shrine, take a walk along the beach and enjoy the ocean views of Shonan. It really feels like a trip to Japan!
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Hakone Ropeway
From Sounzan to Togendai Station, a ropeway runs about 4km. You can ride in a gondola and look over the lush nature of Hakone mountains, Lake Ashinoko, Mt. Fuji and Sagami Bay. Enjoy a skywalk for about 24 minutes.
The Hakone Ropeway is a part of traveling around Hakone that’s well worth experiencing, especially the ride from Sounzan to Owakudani, where the scenery along the way is truly beautiful. As the gondola slowly rises, you can look down over Hakone’s mountain scenery, and when the weather is good, you may even see Mt. Fuji. The views are very expansive.
As you approach Owakudani, the scenery becomes quite distinctive. You can see white smoke constantly rising from the valley and even smell a faint scent of sulfur, making it very different from the scenery on a typical ropeway. The mountains, forests, and volcanic terrain overlap along the way, and it’s also great for taking photos.
I think the Hakone Ropeway is more than just transportation—it’s an interesting travel experience in itself. If you plan it together with Owakudani, Togendai, and Lake Ashi, your whole Hakone itinerary will be even more varied. In particular, slowly crossing the valleys inside the gondola really gives you the feeling of traveling.
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