Yasukuni Jinja (靖國神社) or Yasukuni Shrine was not part of the tour itinerary.
Since the hotel we stayed in is not far from the shinto shrine, we made a quick visit to the Japanese shrine after an early breakfast. [Read more…]
Japan Trip: Sensoji (Asakusa Kannon Temple) and Nakamise Shopping Street
Sensoji (淺草寺) is an ancient Buddhist temple. This oldest temple in Tokyo is home to Kannon or Goddess of Mercy. It is different from what we see back home, the Goddess of Mercy is hidden from public view.
Founded in the 7th century, the temple attracts a huge number of visitors and it is one of the liveliest temples around.
At the main entrance, one can’t help but notice a huge lantern hanging at the gate. The giant red lantern which carries the words “thunder gate (雷門)” has become Tokyo’s iconic landmark.
My wife and I checked out our fortune by shaking a container until a bamboo stick bearing a number in Japanese popped out from the container. This number corresponds to the fortune you are supposed to get which is written on a piece of paper. To get the paper, look for the drawer that carries the same number. ¥100 for one fortune. I got good fortune but my wife didn’t. According to Japanese tradition, if you get a not-so-good fortune, you can neutralize it by tying the paper on a wire provided there.
Free admission.
On both sides of the road leading to Sensoji are numerous stalls selling food, clothing, souvenirs. This is Nakamise Street. We had bought a few things here, especially toys. And we also tried out one of their snacks here.
Note: This article is part of Our Japan Trip series.
Japan Trip: The Imperial Palace Tokyo
The Imperial Palace is the home of the imperial family. It is now the residence of the 125th Emperor of Japan, Emperor Akihoto.
The palace was completed in 1888. Don’t be disappointed if you can’t really see the palace. Because, like other palaces, visitors are kept off the royal residence. [Read more…]
Shopping in Tokyo: Akihabara, Ginza, and Palette Town
I had more than enough shopping in Japan, especially in Tokyo. I felt it was too much. Instead of shopping, we should have done more sight-seeing.
But anyway, if you are in shopping mood, Tokyo offers you an endless shopping experience. [Read more…]
Free Play Encourages Creativity and Independence – Part 2
About 3 weeks ago, I mentioned the importance of letting your children to play on their own – without parents’ interference and involvement – in this article.
This article is a follow-up to it.
“Why second article on the same topic?” you ask. [Read more…]