I arrived at Narai-juku early in the morning, before any tourists had shown up. This quaint historic street is perfect for a quiet, leisurely stroll while taking a close look at the carefully maintained, well-preserved buildings, which are simple and stately. The peaceful atmosphere makes it easier to experience the charm of the Edo period.
This is an in-depth destination worth visiting in any season, and one you'll want to return to after your first visit!
Narai-juku | Review by 蘇自強
Other Reviews by 蘇自強
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Sapporo TV Tower
Built in 1956 on Nishi 1-chome, the starting point of Odori Park, the Sapporo TV Tower is well known to locals and tourists alike as a landmark of Sapporo that has witnessed the city's development since its completion.
After arriving in Sapporo from New Chitose Airport, all I knew was that my hotel was next to Odori Park. I had no idea where exactly it was.
Dragging my heavy luggage, I came out of the subway station and was immediately captivated by the red maple leaves in front of me. I dropped my luggage and started taking pictures. A Japan Post driver quickly ran over and anxiously asked, “What’s wrong with my truck?” I hurriedly explained, “There’s nothing wrong with your truck—the maple leaves are the problem!”
He laughed as he got back in his truck and drove away. I kept taking picture after picture after picture.
Only then did I remember my luggage and that I still had to find my hotel...! -
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Meiji Jingu Gaien (Outer Garden)
Meiji Jingu Gaien, the outer park of Meiji Shrine, was established in 1926. It features the Meiji Memorial Picture Gallery and various sports facilities, such as the Meiji Jingu Stadium, where you can enjoy nature throughout the four seasons.
How could you not go when you can find such a golden autumn scene right in Tokyo?
I knew this popular spot would be packed once fall arrived, so I headed out early.
When I got there first thing in the morning, I was rewarded with a relatively peaceful golden avenue! I don't know who made the “ginkgo bouquet” and left it here, but it made the autumn scene look even more romantic! -
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Hokkaido Makomanai Park
A spacious urban park about 8 km south of central Sapporo, spanning approx. 85 hectares-one of the largest in the city. Originally used as the main venue for the 1972 Sapporo Winter Olympics, the area still has skating rinks operating in winter at the Makomanai Sekisui Heim Ice Arena and Makomanai Sekisui Heim Stadium, letting visitors feel the atmosphere where athletes from around the world once competed.
I visited Makomanai Park in the fall! This spacious, beautiful, and pleasant park is less than 10 kilometers from central Sapporo and very easy to reach.
It was just past mid-October, and the park was filled with layer upon layer of autumn foliage, with brilliant red and golden leaves competing for attention. It was breathtaking!
I sat quietly alone among the red maple leaves, listening to the birds sing. The woodpeckers were busy, the squirrels were agile, and the stag seemed a little flustered...
All of this actually made me forget about my next stop, and I couldn't bring myself to leave for a long time...! -
