Asakusa Shin Nakamise Shopping Street | Review by Eddie

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Asakusa Shin Nakamise Shopping Street

Safe from rain and intense heat under the arcade! A shopping street traversing Asakusa from east to west.

21 Sep 2026 See More

It was my first time in Tokyo. I took an overnight flight and arrived at Narita Airport a little after 6 a.m. By the time I got to Asakusa, it was already around 9 or 10. I chose to stay in Asakusa because of its more traditional atmosphere. After dropping off my luggage, I quickly headed out, eager to soak up the excitement of my first visit to Tokyo.

I didn't expect the wind and rain to be so heavy that day. Even with an umbrella, I struggled a bit while walking along Shin Nakamise Shopping Street, but it didn't dampen my enthusiasm at all. Seeing Asakusa's lively streets with a touch of old Tokyo for the first time actually made it feel even more like a real trip. Although the weather didn't cooperate, the memory of those first few hours after arriving in Tokyo still feels very special when I think back on it now.

Other Reviews by Eddie

Todaiji Temple

In the Nara period (710-794), Emperor Shomu had the Rushana Daibutsu (Great Buddha) built at his request, and a memorial service was held in 752. This temple is one of the representative temples of Nara. It took nearly 40 years to build the temple complex.
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10 Oct 2026 See More

I visited Todaiji Temple in Nara in January. After touring the temple, I also took a walk around the pond on the temple grounds and the old street near Todaiji. The January weather was chilly, which made walking around especially pleasant. Without the summer heat and humidity, I could take my time enjoying the scenery.
The pond on the temple grounds felt very peaceful. The water reflected the surrounding scenery, and together with the old buildings nearby, it made me want to stop and take a longer look. After leaving, I continued toward the old street near Todaiji. There are quite a few shops along the way where you can browse local souvenirs and try some Nara specialties. Rather than rushing from one attraction to another, I prefer this kind of itinerary, where I can stroll around freely and discover little surprises along the way.
If you're planning to visit Todaiji Temple, I recommend exploring the nearby area as well. Don't rush to leave; walking slowly lets you experience a different side of Nara's charm. Although January is colder, it has its own unique atmosphere and is worth taking the time to explore.
Namba Yasaka Shrine

”Namba Yasaka Shrine”, located in the Namba area of Minami in Osaka, is a historic shrine said to have been founded during the reign of Emperor Nintoku (313-399).
- Shinsaibashi, Namba, Nipponbashi (Minami)
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9 Oct 2026 See More

I came to Namba Yasaka Shrine in Osaka to see its famous giant lion-head hall, but unexpectedly happened upon a traditional festival being held that day. It was much livelier than usual. When I looked it up online later, I learned that the event is called the Tsunahiki Shinji, or Rope-Pulling Ritual, a traditional festival held annually at the shrine.

This festival is connected to Japanese mythology and is mainly held to ward off misfortune, pray for peace and good fortune, and wish for a bountiful harvest and thriving businesses in the new year. The event includes a traditional tug-of-war ritual to pray for good luck, and it is said to be one of Osaka's most notable folk traditions.

I came across it completely by chance and hadn't paid particular attention to event information before my trip. Only after looking it up afterward did I discover that it is held every year on the third Sunday of January. If you're planning to visit Osaka around that time, you might want to add Namba Yasaka Shrine to your itinerary. Besides seeing the famous lion-head hall, you may also get the chance to experience the lively atmosphere of the festival.

Travel isn't just about sightseeing and enjoying good food. Sometimes, coming across a local traditional event like this can also be a very special experience. If you get the chance, take in the lively atmosphere and pray for yourself and your family, wishing for peace and good fortune every day of the new year!
Marugame Castle

The 400-year old symbol of Marugame City is Hirayama Castle. It was built by a samurai, Ikoma Chikamasa, and his son, Kazumasa, over five years.
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7 Oct 2026 See More

When I arrived at Marugame Castle in Kagawa, the first thing that caught my eye was the stone walls. Walking slowly up the slope, the tall stone walls on both sides looked very imposing. The closer I got to the keep, the more I could feel the history of the castle.

Although Marugame Castle’s keep isn’t very large, it has retained its old wooden appearance. From the castle, you can also see the cityscape of Marugame. Compared with some crowded tourist attractions, I prefer places like this where you can walk around and take your time. There weren’t too many noisy crowds, so it was very pleasant to explore.

If you happen to be visiting Kagawa, consider setting aside some time to walk around Marugame Castle, see this historic castle with more than 400 years of history, and experience a different side of Japan.