Yasaka Shrine is located at the eastern end of Kyoto's bustling Shijo Street, just across the road, and is well worth including on a visit to Kyoto. The shrine has a long history dating back to around the 7th century and has long been revered by Kyoto residents and travelers. It is also one of the places where the famous Gion Matsuri originated. Passing through the vermilion gate, you can immediately feel the solemn atmosphere of a traditional shrine. Besides visiting the shrine, it's also nice to stroll around Gion and Hanamikoji and experience Kyoto's distinctive historical charm.
Yasaka Shrine | Review by Linda Liao
Other Reviews by Linda Liao
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Nikko Osaru Land
Make your way to Nikko in Tochigi Prefecture to find a theme park centered around the concept of “seeing, playing, and interacting”. Originally the Nikko Saru Gundan (Monkey Troupe) Theater, this coveted destination reopened in 2022 with a total rebrand to bring you all the best of monkeys and other furry friends.
On a previous visit to see the plum blossoms at Yushima Tenmangu Shrine in Tokyo, I unexpectedly came across a traveling performance by the Taro Jiro Ichimon troupe, part of Nikko Saru Gundan. It was a delightful surprise during the trip! Known for the traditional Japanese art of sarumawashi (monkey performances), the troupe turns this traditional craft into a fun-filled show through the well-coordinated interactions between highly trained monkeys and their handlers. The little monkeys not only follow instructions but also work with the performers in a variety of amusing skits. Their humanlike gestures make it hard to look away.
From walking on stilts and jumping over fences to increasingly difficult challenges, each act made the atmosphere more and more exciting. The audience laughed out loud while cheering the little monkeys on, and when they successfully completed a trick, loud applause immediately erupted all around. I hope I'll have more opportunities to enjoy such skillful performances at local festivals, tourist attractions, and other places in Japan in the future.
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Chubu Electric Power MIRAI TOWER
The tower is Nagoya’s symbol, built as Nagoya TV Tower for tourism and TV broadcast and completed in 1954. In 2011, TV signals were switched from analog to digital and its function as a consolidated radio tower was ended.
When you visit the Sakae area of Nagoya, it’s hard not to notice Chubu Electric Power MIRAI TOWER standing tall in Hisaya-odori Park! Built in 1954, this TV tower was one of Japan’s earliest consolidated radio towers and is a classic landmark in central Nagoya. The tower is especially striking against the blue sky, surrounded by lush greenery, a modern park, and shopping districts that create a cityscape unique to Nagoya. Once illuminated at night, it takes on a different kind of charm. Whether you stroll around and take photos during the day or enjoy the lights at night, it’s well worth it.
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Rohto Dry Aid Contact a
These eye drops help treat dry eyes, eye fatigue, and hazy vision. The viscous and thick liquid helps to moisturize your eyes like natural tears, making it very effective in treating dry eyes when wearing contact lenses. It can be used with all types of contact lenses (soft, hard, O2, disposable).
Anyone who wears contact lenses knows that after wearing them for a long time, your eyes can easily feel dry and irritated, especially when you have a packed travel schedule. That’s when it’s convenient to carry Rohto Dry Aid Contact eye drops with you. When your eyes feel dry, you can use them as directed to help relieve the discomfort. After all, overly dry eyes don’t just affect comfort—your contact lenses may also shift when you blink, which can be frustrating.
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