Sometimes, a trip to Tokyo doesn't need any special plans. Just walk into Ameyoko, follow the crowd, and slowly browse and eat your way around—that's the most authentic Tokyo travel experience. 🇯🇵❤️
The most fun part of Ameyoko isn't just shopping, but the excitement of “not knowing what treasure you'll find at the next store”! 🥰
From traditional markets to trendy products, and from Japanese food to international cuisine, there's something new to discover every few steps!
Mt. Otowa Kiyomizu-dera Temple
Opened in the year 778, the temple was registered as a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Site in 1994. In the 130, 000 m2 area of the precincts spread out on the hillside of Mt. Otowa, there are more than 30 cathedrals and monuments, including national treasures and important cultural properties.
Kiyomizu-dera in the early morning has a charming historic atmosphere. I brought my elders to visit this historic site (I recommend coming early, as it gets more crowded around noon).
Since we were traveling independently, we could wander around at our own pace. From high up at Kiyomizu-dera, we looked down over a sea of greenery and imagined the maple leaves turning red in the fall (I'll definitely visit again if I get the chance).
I bought a commemorative omamori, hoping my family will stay safe and healthy〜❤️
I fell deeply in love with the beauty of Kyoto🥰
Sunshine City
Sunshine City has been popular for many years as a major spot in Ikebukuro Station’s east exit area. The facility consists of 5 distinct areas: Sunshine 60, Prince Hotel, World Import Mart, Bunka Kaikan, and Specialty Store Alpa. Besides commercial facilities and hotels, the area features a cluster of popular entertainment facilities such as aquariums, planetariums, and NAMJATOWN.
Day two of my independent trip to Tokyo—visiting Sunshine Aquarium at Sunshine City in Ikebukuro.
Being able to visit an aquarium inside a shopping complex made me so happy 😃💕. Watching the penguins leisurely soar through the water and seeing all kinds of fish was so cute. It's great for families with children 🥰
The complex has all kinds of food to choose from. This time, we chose a restaurant with an Okinawan atmosphere. The food was delicious, and the older members of the family really liked it too.
After eating, we browsed the mall and spent a leisurely half day there—highly recommended 😘
Owakudani
After changing from the cable car to the ropeway at Hayamiyama Station on the main route of the Hakone tour, While enjoying an aerial walk for a while the scenery suddenly changes.
Our one-day Mt. Fuji tour brought us to Owakudani in Hakone.
We took the ropeway to Owakudani, and as it climbed, lush greenery came into view. Unfortunately, it started drizzling, so after getting off, we could only walk around in the rain. The air was filled with the smell of sulfur, and we briefly enjoyed the natural geothermal scenery.
Next, we went to the shop to buy the famous black eggs. They say eating one adds 7 years to your life😱, so of course we had to eat more🤣
The souvenir shops were fun to browse and shop at, with lots of regional limited-edition items. I went overboard again😅
