San'en-zan Kodo-in Zojoji Temple | Review by Gina C

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San'en-zan Kodo-in Zojoji Temple

At the base of Tokyo Tower, there is a Buddhist temple connected to the family of the Tokugawa Shogunate.

17 Oct 2026 See More

Located in the Shiba Park area of Tokyo, the stately temple buildings blend with the surrounding cityscape, creating a unique atmosphere where old and new come together.

The biggest attraction of Zojoji Temple is being able to capture the historic temple and Tokyo Tower behind it in the same photo! The red Tokyo Tower paired with the temple’s traditional architecture creates a particularly distinctive view and is a classic shot that many visitors come here to take. Standing in front of the temple, you can look up and see Tokyo Tower, making it a truly iconic Tokyo scene.

Other Reviews by Gina C

Ghibli Museum, Mitaka

In Tokyo's Mitaka lies the Ghibli Museum, overseen by Director Hayao Miyazaki. Studio Ghibli, established in 1985, is a Japanese animation studio known for planning and producing films primarily directed by Isao Takahata and Hayao Miyazaki.
- Kichijoji, Mitaka
- Museums
17 Oct 2026 See More

Fans of Studio Ghibli shouldn’t miss the Ghibli Museum, Mitaka! It feels like stepping into the world of Hayao Miyazaki’s animated films. From the exterior of the building to all the details inside, everything is full of childlike wonder and imagination, making you feel as if you’ve suddenly gone back to watching animated films as a child.

The museum has many cleverly designed features, with delightful little details to discover everywhere. Together with the colorful decorations, it really has Studio Ghibli’s unique style! Whether you like My Neighbor Totoro, Spirited Away, or Princess Mononoke, you can experience the charm of these animated works and can’t help looking for familiar elements as you explore.

This isn’t just a place that displays animated works—it’s more like an imaginative fairy-tale world, and every corner is worth taking the time to appreciate. If you like Studio Ghibli films, I really recommend adding this museum to your Tokyo itinerary and experiencing the magical atmosphere of the films for yourself!
Oronamin C Drink

Since its introduction in 1965, this national carbonated nutritional drink has sold over 35 billion bottles in Japan. It contains the vitamin C equivalent to 11 lemons, as well as B2, B6, essential amino acids for building the body, and honey.
- Food & Drink
16 Oct 2026 See More

When I saw Oronamin C this time, I couldn't resist buying one to try. The bottle is small and cute and fits perfectly in your hand. It's great for when you're tired from walking around or want something a little different to drink while traveling.

When you open it, there's a light citrus aroma. It tastes sweet and tangy, with plenty of carbonation. It's refreshing with a slight kick, and it leaves a sweet taste in your mouth afterward. The bottle may be small, but the flavor really stands out. It tastes even better ice-cold!
Oshino Hakkai – The 8 Springs of Oshino

Oshino Hakkai is the collective name for Mt. Fuji’s 8 natural ponds, Deguchi-ike, Okama-ike, Sokonashi-ike, Choshi-ike, Waku-ike, Nigori-ike, Kagami-ike and Shobu-ike. Once a former lake, the area has dried up and formed the 8 spring-sourced ponds that remain today.
- Yamanashi
- Nature Spots
16 Oct 2026 See More

This is a very famous tourist attraction near Mount Fuji, known for its crystal-clear spring ponds. It’s also a great place to enjoy Mount Fuji’s natural scenery. Walking into the area feels like entering a small village filled with traditional Japanese charm, surrounded by Japanese-style buildings, thatched roofs, and flowing streams. The whole setting is very distinctive.

Oshino Hakkai is actually made up of eight spring ponds. The water comes from snowmelt on Mount Fuji, which emerges after being filtered through layers of earth over a long period of time. As a result, the water is so clear and transparent that you can clearly see the bottom of the ponds. In the sunlight, the water takes on a beautiful blue-green color, and together with the surrounding natural scenery, it’s truly beautiful! Standing by the ponds, you can’t help but marvel at the wonders of nature. Even casual photos have the atmosphere of the Japanese countryside.

Besides viewing the spring ponds, there are also quite a few shops nearby selling local specialties, where you can buy snacks and souvenirs while strolling around and enjoying the relaxed countryside atmosphere. If the weather is good, you may also get to see Mount Fuji rising behind the village. The snow-covered summit paired with the traditional Japanese buildings makes for a very charming view. However, Mount Fuji is often obscured by clouds, so seeing the entire mountain really takes a bit of luck!