A lush, green plaza with not just a memorial hall but also a hotel where you can stay.
Kurashiki Ivy Square | Review by Charlie ChanChan
Other Reviews by Charlie ChanChan
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Harmonica Alley
Located just outside the north exit of Kichijoji Station, this small alley is home to about 100 shops. The name “Harmonica Alley” is said to come from the fact that the line of small storefronts looks like the holes on a harmonica. Many of the shops sell delicious things to eat, so it’s a great place to stroll while sampling some of the delights. At night, red lanterns light the many izakayas (Japanese style pubs), which are a popular place to have a drink.
The alley is super narrow, but the vibe is really lively. It totally has that Showa-era feel—like stepping into old Tokyo.
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ekie
Located just beyond the ticket gates, this commercial facility is easy to stop by between sightseeing plans or while transferring trains. ekie, directly connected to the south exit of Hiroshima Station, brings together restaurants and souvenir shops, making it a convenient place to visit at the start or end of your trip.
It’s not really a big shopping mall. It’s more focused on food and buying souvenirs.
You can pretty much see everything in about an hour. -
Keio Mogusaen
Keio Mogusaen is a Tokyo garden where visitors can enjoy seasonal blooms and foliage year-round. Loved since the Edo period, this expansive 26,000㎡ garden features traditional Japanese elements like thatched-roof buildings, bamboo fences, and tea huts, embodying the essence of Japanese beauty.
The garden isn't huge, but the ups and downs are cleverly designed, so it's never boring to walk around. There's a little tea house inside where you can enjoy matcha while taking in the view—the atmosphere is just perfect.