People usually think you have to be an art lover to come here, but visiting this place will totally change your mind. The exhibits aren't intimidating or pretentious at all—they feel approachable and relaxed. The way the art blends with nature is so clever, you'll be surprised! I highly recommend stopping by; you'll get a lot out of it!
The Hakone Open-air Museum | Review by Liao Jun
Other Reviews by Liao Jun
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Aizuya Lalaport EXPOCITY
Founded in 1933, Aizuya is a legendary takoyaki shop with over 90 years of history. Originally, it served “Radio-yaki”-batter balls filled with beef tendon and konnyaku-but when the founder added octopus inspired by Akashi-yaki from Hyogo, takoyaki as we know it today was born.
The special thing here is they don’t use sauce or mayo.
It’s all about the flavor of the batter itself, which makes it feel really light and not heavy at all.
The takoyaki are on the smaller side, perfect bite-size.
Super easy to eat one in a single bite.
The outside is slightly crisp, the inside is soft and tender, and it goes down really smoothly. -
Kagawa Family Nagayamon Gate
The front gate of the former Kagawa family residence, whose members served for generations as chief retainers of the Iwakuni Domain during the Edo period. Believed to have been built in the Genroku era in the late 17th century, it still retains much of its original appearance. Counted among the oldest buildings in Iwakuni, it was designated a Tangible Cultural Property of Yamaguchi Prefecture in 1966. Measuring 23.29 m wide and 4.85 m deep, it features an irimoya (hip-and-gable) roof with traditional hon-kawara tiles.
A lot of the shops inside keep the original old-house layout—wooden doors, sliding doors, tile roofs… the aged feel is super strong. It’s a slow, relaxing place to wander, and you’ll want to keep taking photos.
Some shops sell little goods, and some are cafés. Overall it’s kind of artsy and mellow—perfect for a walk and a small snack. -
Tokyo Koenji Awa-Odori
It began as “Koen-ji Temple’s Baka Odori (Stupid Dance).” in 1957. Today, more than 1 million visitors come to see Tokyo Koenji Awa Odori. This is the summer staple for local people and the 2nd largest event after Tokushima of all the Awa Odori hosted in Japan.
Every dance group has its own unique style. The costumes and moves are so coordinated and energetic. As soon as the music starts, your feet just want to move—you really can't help but want to join in!