If you're traveling to Nagoya, you definitely shouldn't miss a day trip to Inuyama Castle. Inuyama Castle is the oldest of Japan's 12 surviving original castle keeps. Although it isn't as imposing as Himeji Castle or Matsumoto Castle, looking up at the keep from the foot of the mountain gives you a better sense of its commanding position and how difficult it would have been to conquer, as well as its importance at the time. To visit the keep, you first have to tackle an 85-degree wooden staircase. From the top floor, you can see the Kiso River and enjoy a wide-open view. Of course, the most important thing is to walk all the way around the outside. When you step onto the wooden walkway, you can hear the interlocking wood creak. The railing isn't very high, so it's a little nerve-racking, but you can fully experience the history of this old castle keep, almost as if you've traveled back in time. After your visit, you can also head to Inuyama Castle Town for local food, a kimono experience, and the atmosphere of the old streets. I recommend getting off at Inuyama-Yuen Station and departing from Inuyama Station on the way back. This lets you avoid the crowds and experience a different route.
Inuyama Castle | Review by hdwf2002
Other Reviews by hdwf2002
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Kumoba Pond
Located in one of Japan's premier plateau resorts, Karuizawa, this serene pond has become a staple on the tourist route. Once the surrounding area was a villa region for foreigners, it earned the nickname "Swan Lake" because swans would come to visit in the winter.
Besides the ski resort and outlet mall at the Prince Hotel, Karuizawa is also perfect for exploring by bicycle. Kumoba Pond is a gorgeous lake that visitors often come to see. It is a long, narrow man-made lake surrounded by bald cypress and maple trees. It takes about 20 minutes to walk around the pond. The water is as clear as a mirror, reflecting beautiful scenery in every season. If you can visit in the fall, you can include it as one of your stops for viewing the autumn leaves. Each season offers different scenery. Being here lets you forget the noise and fast pace of the city, slow down, and enjoy the view.
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Azabudai Hills
Azabudai Hills, is the megaplex hub that opened in Azabu in November 2023 with some 150 shops for fashion, culture, and unbeatable food across its floors. The central plaza and halls throughout feature fresh greenery and wide open, luxe vibes to bring you the best of dining and shopping.
Azabudai Hills is a large shopping and dining complex made up of several buildings, about a 15-minute walk from Tokyo Tower. There are many must-try places to eat inside, making it worth visiting for afternoon tea, lunch, or dinner. If you come in early spring, I recommend stopping by Sakura Asa Street. The cherry blossoms in full bloom alongside the distinctive architecture offer a little moment of happiness in the big city of Tokyo.
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Osu Kannon Temple
This temple is the branch headquarters of Shingon Sect, Chisan School, officially called “Kitanosan Shinpukuji Hoshoin Temple ”. It started in Hashima City, Gifu and moved to the current location by General Tokugawa Iyeyasu’s order. It is regarded as one of Japan’s Three Kannon Temples along with Asakusa Kannon in Tokyo and Tsu Kannon in Mie.
Osu Kannon Temple in Nagoya is one of Japan’s three major Kannon temples. Besides its centuries-old history, its location is very convenient for travelers on a short visit to this bustling area. The surrounding Osu shopping streets are divided into many sections, offering everything from food and vintage toys to the latest fashions and electronics. Even without an itinerary, once you step onto the shopping streets, you’ll naturally follow the crowds and see where your feet take you. It truly is a must-visit attraction. Highly recommended!
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