Category Archive: Travel in Japan
Tokyo’s Sumida River (隅田川) branches out from the Arakawa River at Iwabuchi and flows directly into Tokyo Bay. It passes through the Tokyo wards of Kita, Adachi, Arakawa, Sumida, Taito, Koto, and Chuo. The river meanders for 27 kilometers and runs under 26 bridges which are spaced about a kilometer per bridge. Some of the more popular bridges are the Ryogoku-bashi which was built in 1932, the Nihon-bashi that dates all the way back to the 17th Century, and the Tsukuda Bridge which was built in 196 (the first bridge built after WWII).
Sumida River at night | Ian Muttoo
The Sumida River was the original route for the trade and commerce industry, and it played a major part in the success of Tokyo. The best way to experience the allure and history of the Sumida River is by joining a river cruise, of which there are several options. The ride gives you a glimpse of the rich history of Japan’s diverse culture, and how the Japanese commerce and industry developed because of the river, making the city the center of a thriving trading port.
Although there are several places to begin the cruise, a great starting point would be the Hinode Pier on the Yurikamome line. You can take a scenic route to Asakusa and Sensoji Temple, and bask at the gorgeous sights as you pass by the Hamarikyu Japanese Gardens. Taking the Sumida River Line route will let you escape the hustle and bustle of city life and transport you back in time through the lush greenery and tranquil waters.
You can also explore the river by taking the Himiko Water Bus. This cruise can begin by showing you the old atmosphere of Edo along Asakusa and you can cap your day off by exploring the shops and amusement parks in Odaiba. The Himiko boats are constructed to look like futuristic vessels that allow you an unobstructed view through their large wall to wall windows. As the sun sets, the lights on the ship will add to the aura of mystique and enchantment.
Himiko Water Bus | jetalone
What to See Along the Sumida River
The river cruise will allow you to see some of the famous sights in Tokyo, such as the Tsukiji Fish Market, the Kokugikan, which is the Tokyo Grand Sumo Tournament Arena, and the Asahi beer headquarters. The Sumida River Fireworks Display, one of the most popular fireworks festivals in Japan, is held around the middle of every year and is not to be missed. It can be viewed downstream of Sakurabashi Bridge to upstream of Kototoibashi Bridge, and from downstream of Komagatabashi Bridge to upstream of Umayabashi Bridge.
Sumida River Fireworks Festival | localjapantimes
Tags: Himiko boat, Himiko Water Bus, Sumida River, Sumida River cruise, Sumida River Japan, Tokyo rive, Tokyo Sumida River
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One of the must-see spots in Tokyo is the Tokyo Imperial Palace (皇居). Also called Kōkyo, it is the main residence of Japan’s Imperial Family. Located in Chiyoda area, the Palace is composed of several interconnected buildings, including the main palace hall (Kyuden), function halls, and administrative offices. The grounds are a massive park with lush foliage and manicured lawns, surrounded by moats and huge stone walls.
View of Tokyo Imperial Palace from across the moat. |
Freakland – フリークランド
Early names and versions
The Imperial Palace is situated where the former Edo Castle used to stand. In October 1868, during the Meiji Restoration, the emperor moved his residence from Kyoto Imperial Palace to the Edo Castle, which was renamed Tokyo Castle, then changed again to Imperial Castle in 1869, Palace Castle in 1888, and finally (for now) the Imperial Residence in 1948.
Over the centuries, many old castle structures were either destroyed by fires and earthquakes or demolished to make way for newer buildings. On May 29, 1945, the Palace grounds took a huge blow during the Allied fire-bombing raid, which destroyed most of the structures. Less than two months after, August 15 marked the end of WWII when Emperor Showa (Hirohito) declared Japan’s surrender from the basement of the Palace library.
The Palace throne hall during the Meiji Era (destroyed during WWII).
Tokyo Imperial Palace Main Gate. | gwaar
Succeeding years witnessed the rebuilding of the palace, including the Kyuden and the gardens. Today, the grandeur and beauty of the Imperial Palace is well established. The palace buildings are generally closed to the public throughout the year except on December 23 (the Emperor’s birthday) and January 2 (New Year’s Greeting), when visitors can enter the inner palace grounds to listen to the emperor’s speech and pay their respects to the Imperial Family.
Gardens for everyone
Fortunately, the outer gardens are open to the public for most of the year. The East Garden is probably the most popular with its little bridges, grassy knolls, ponds, and flowering trees. Its gorgeous landscape reflects Japanese aesthetics. Most of the Palace’s administrative offices are located here, including the Imperial Tokagakudo Music Hall, the Archives, Mausolea Department Imperial Household Agency, and the Museum of the Imperial Collections.
Tokyo Imperial Palace East Garden. | Augapfel
The outer gardens are open throughout the year except for Mondays, Fridays, and special occasions. You can also join a guided tour of the Palace (in Japanese, with an English pamphlet and audio guide). Don’t forget your camera when you visit! Make sure you have enough storage space in your memory card as well as fully charged batteries, because you will surely be shooting photos left and right.
Imperial Palace Guard Tower. | Stéfan
Tags: Imperial Family residence, Imperial Palace East Garden, Japanese imperial residence, Japanese major attraction, Japanese tourist attraction, Kokyo, Kyuden, Tokyo Imperial Palace, Tokyo palace
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Asakusa Hanayashiki (浅草花やしき) first opened as a flower park in Tokyo in 1853, when US Navy Commodore Matthew Calbraith Perry visited Japan in the latter part of the Edo period (1603-1867). Nowadays, Asakusa Hanayashiki is known to be the oldest amusement park in Japan. It houses 20 types of attractions and eateries. It also has a wide selection of souvenir shops and other stores.
Asakusa Hanayashiki | Harry Vale
The Japanese term “hanayashiki” refers originally to public flower gardens (“hana” means “flower”). The transformation of the hanayashi from a flower garden to an amusement park began in the Meiji Period (1868-1912). It was fully developed between 1887-1896 by Yamamoto Kinzo, who was a lumber dealer and the manager of the park.
Various structures and facilities contributed to the park’s rise in popularity. In 1888, a pavilion 5 stories high, called “Ozankaku” was considered a skyscraper by the public and was a main attraction.
Other must-see attractions were the diorama galleries (created in 1889) which depicted various historical scenes, a merry-go-round, a Ferris wheel, theatres for movies and plays, exotic animals, and dolls made of chrysanthemum flowers.
In 1923, during the Great Kanto earthquake, most of these structures collapsed and the amusement park was in shambles.
Asakusa-Hanayashiki after Great Kanto earthquake
Fortunately, the park was rebuilt and is currently fully functioning. It is operated by Hanayashiki Co. Ltd., a subsidiary of Namco Bandai Holdings. It still draws in a good number of customers every year and has several thrilling modern rides such as the DISK’O and the Space Shot. It also operates the oldest roller coaster in Japan, and a Japanese-style haunted house.
The amusement park at night | the_toe_stubber
Tags: Asakusa, Asakusa Hanayashiki, hanayashiki flower garden, oldest amusement park Japan
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This winter break, KCP-USA student Brennen Kendall and some friends headed for the snowy slopes of Niigata Prefecture for some thrills on the ice.
Niigata is situated on Honshū island, on the coast of the Sea of Japan. It is known for its high production of cut lilies, tulips, and azaleas, although these colorful and gorgeous flowers were hard to spot in the wild, especially under the heavy blanket of snow.
KCP’s adventurers took a night bus to go to Niigata from Tokyo, and this was quite a long ride. They left at 11:00 PM and the bus reached Niigata at 6:00 AM the next morning. That’s 7 hours!
The trip was well worth it, though, and our students have pictures to prove it.
All bundled up and ready for some winter fun. Brrr-ing it on! | KCP Flickr
Warming up by snowboarding on the slope while surrounded by snowflakes. | KCP Flickr
Snow-laden trees nearly frozen in the chilly air. Can’t get much colder than this! | KCP Flickr
Tags: Brennen Kendall, Honshu, Niigata Prefecture, Niigata trip, Sea of Japan, snowboarding at Niigata
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Many people who visit Tokyo are not aware of the places seldom visited by tourists. These places are usually overlooked yet can be interesting areas to visit. They somehow tell us more about the culture and ways of a country.
Ochanomizu Station | kanjiroushi
Ochanomizu is a neighborhood in Tokyo that not many tourists know about. Its name means “tea water.” The Kanda River runs through Ochanomizu, and during the Edo period it’s where residents in the area got their water for tea. Ochanomizu is a treasure trove of instrument shops, ski and snowboard shops, and other sports shops, as well as the St. Nikolai Russian Cathedral. It won’t be difficult to get a good deal on anything you need in this area. Ochanomizu stretches from the Yushima section of Bunkyo-ku to the Kanda section of Chiyoda-ku.
Mandolin and guitar store in Ochanomizu | eyeonjapan.com
Several universities have main campuses in Ochanomizu: Meiji University, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, and Juntendo University. The neighborhood is bustling with students. The JR and Marunouchi lines conveniently pass along Ochanomizu Station and provide easy access for anyone wanting to visit the area.
Ochanomizu is a picturesque district. Most universities are located in Meidai Dori Avenue. The musical instrument shops are also along this street. The sports shops are situated along Yusukuni Dori. The St. Nikolai Russian Orthodox Cathedral is on Hongo Dori Avenue near the Hijiribashi Exit of JR Ochanomizu Station.
Nicholai-Do, the main Japanese Orthodox Church | Matt Perreault
St. Nicholas of Japan (Ivan Dmitrievich Kasatkin) introduced Eastern Orthodoxy to Japan in the 19th century and continued efforts to convert many Japanese people in a time when it was prohibited by the Japanese government. He was the first bishop of the Japanese Orthodox Church. The headquarters was moved to Tokyo in 1863 and in 1886, the Japanese Orthodox Church had more than 10,000 converts.
Ochanomizu offers it own unique quintessential character that makes it worth a visit in the less-well-known facets of the Japanese culture and history.
Tags: Japan, Ochanomizu, Ochanomizu district, Ochanomizu neighborhood, Off the Beaten Path, Tokyo, Tokyo district, Tokyo travel
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Japan contains over 6,000 islands in the Pacific Ocean. Japan is bordered by the Sea of Japan to the east, the Sea of Okhotsk to the north, and the East China Sea to the south. It’s no wonder that just a stone’s throw away from the capital city, Tokyo, are some of finest beaches and seascapes.
Sunset view from Odaiba. | Tanki
Asia is characterized by its humid and subtropical climate. Japan is situated in East Asia, where summers peak at extremely high temperatures. What better way to cool off during the summer (and most of the year) than a day trip to the beach? Although there are better beaches further away from Tokyo, it’s more convenient to go to the beaches that are closer to the city.
Kick back and relax at Isshiki Beach
Isshiki Beach has been a favorite destination of the Japanese Imperial Family since 1894; Hayama Imperial Villa is a well-known landmark. On sunny days, it’s a popular destination for many who want to relax on the sandy shores, build biceps by kayaking, keep their balance while windsurfing, or simply take a dip in the water to cool off. There are also several restaurants with fine fresh food.
Sunset at Hayama Beach. | Lance Shields
Take a dive at Odaiba Beach
Odaiba is the only beach within Tokyo city limits. It’s an artificial beach constructed in 1853 by the Tokugawa shogunate as a fortress to protect Toyo from outside invaders by sea. “Daiba” refers to the cannon batteries on the islands. The third daiba was opened to the public in 1928 and remains open until today. Odaiba is now a bustling commercial and entertainment district accessible to the residents of Tokyo who are looking to enjoy and relax.
Odaiba Beach, a half-mile long, is surrounded by an urban landscape. Its close proximity to central Tokyo makes it a favorite destination. July marks the Lantern Festival, where amazing displays of a multitude of lit lanterns are released along the beach. An observation deck gives a great view of Tokyo Tower and Rainbow Bridge.
Relaxing right in Tokyo, at Odaiba Beach. | ksuyin
Onjuku: Shores of Mexico in the Pacific
Onjuku is quaint little town on the Bōsō peninsula on the Pacific coast. A Spanish galleon was shipwrecked in the area in 1609 en route to Acapulco, Mexico. 317 members of its crew were rescued by the townspeople, and once sister cities became popular, Onjuku became the sister city of Acapulco in 1928. The town is known for its abalone and lobsters. The white sand shores of Onjuku stretch out two kilometers, and it’s known for its mild waves. But it still attracts surfers.
Onjuku Beach. | Chris Kempson
Tags: beaches near Tokyo, Hayama Isshiki Beach, Japan Beaches, Odaiba Beach, Onjuku Beach, Tokyo beaches
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Tokyo, one of the world’s most populated metro areas, is the capital of Japan. Tokyo is one of Japan’s 47 prefectures (districts) and is divided into 23 city wards that include numerous towns and villages. Ogasawara and Izu Islands are also considered part of Tokyo. The total population is over 13 million, and is home to people from all walks of life.
Tokyo cityscape | KCP Flickr
Tokyo has the world’s largest metropolitan economy; 47 of the Fortune Global 500 companies are located in Tokyo. Its official name is the Tokyo Metropolis, formed in 1943 by combining the city of Tokyo and the earlier Tokyo prefecture. It is the home of the Japanese Imperial Family, the Imperial Palace, and the Japanese government.
Japanese Imperial Palace | Miki Yoshihito
Beginnings
Originally, Tokyo was known as Edo. It started out as a small fishing village and grew to become Japan’s cultural, business, shopping, and political epicenter. In the early 1600s, it was the home of Shogun Tokugawa Ieyasu’s feudal government. During the Meiji restoration in 1808, Japan’s capital was moved from Kyoto to Edo, and in 1868, the emperor made Edo his permanent residence. It was renamed Tokyo, meaning “Eastern Capital.”
Through the years, Tokyo has experienced many tumultuous events–the Great Kanto earthquake in 1923, the World War II air raids in 1945, and so on. The great city survived and was rebuilt. It hosted the 1964 Summer Olympics!
Entrance to Asakusa Temple | KCP Flickr
Tokyo’s Unique Contrasts
Tokyo has a wealth of things to see and experience. It is steeped in culture both ancient and modern, history, shopping, entertainment, and architecture. There are scads of places to visit, each with its distinct appeal. The Asakusa district is steeped in the traditional charm of its temples and geishas. In contrast, Harajuku is a modern shopping district exploding with people in avant-garde dress.
Posers at Harajuku | flyingpurplemonkeys
Whether you visit Tokyo for business, pleasure, or study, it will leave a lasting impression that you will always treasure.
Tags: Asakusa, Asia, Harajuku, Japan, Japanese Imperial Palace, Tokyo
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KCP student Steven Z. Edwards recently sent us some photos of his time at KCP and his forays into Japan.
KCP is located in the Shinjuku area of Tokyo, and it is only natural that Steven and his classmates would pay its National Garden a visit.
Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden
Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden is a convenient short walk from the Shinjuku-gyoemmae Station from the Maronouchi Line or Sendagaya Station on the Chūō-Sōbu Line. The garden was once home to the Naitō family (in the Edo period), who were powerful lords or Daimyo. The garden was once exclusive only to royalty. The park, severely damaged during World War II, has now been restored and showcases the magnificent flora and fauna of Japan.
KCP students Kakei, Khan, Steven, Erng, and Pla go on a class Hanami trip to the park.| KCP at Flickr
On May 21, 1949, the garden was opened for the general public and was subsequently called “National Shinjuku Imperial Gardens.” It is now known as “Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden.”
KCP student Steven under a lush sakura tree. |KCP at Flickr
The opulent garden is a favorite place for hanami, or the spring viewing of the beautiful cherry blossoms. It draws large crowds, both tourists and locals. Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden spans 58.3 hectares and embraces three horticultural styles: Japanese traditional, French formal, and English landscape. It boasts at least 20,000 trees, 1500 of which are cherry trees such as Weeping Cherry, Kanzan Cherry, and Tokyo Cherry. Others are tulip trees, Himalayan cedars, and cypress trees.
Shin Okubo
KCP students also went to Shin Okubo (more popularly known as Koreatown) in Tokyo. Shin Okubo Station is on JR East Yamanote Line in Shinjuku Ward and about 3 minutes on foot from Okubo Station on Chuo Sobu Line.
KCP students Pla, Steven, Anna, Kyeongmi, Erng, and Tae Hoon in Koreatown.
| KCP at Flickr
Many Koreans migrated to Japan after World War II, which led to the development of Koreatown. It is a lively and busy area filled with a maze of smaller streets that lead to the main street, Okubo Dori. The streets are filled with predominantly Korean shops and some Chinese and Thai shops and restaurants. There are also residential areas comprised of apartment buildings and hotels.
It’s a popular hangout for the younger Japanese. It is also known to draw many K-pop fans of Korean soap operas, movies, and song groups such as Big Bang and Girls Generation. The demand for Korean actors, actresses, and singers has invaded many households in Japan, especially those with teenagers.
Stay tuned for more of Steven’s experiences!
Tags: KCP, KCP outing, KCP student, KCP student Steven, Shinjuku Gyoen, Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden
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Tokyo DisneySea is a theme park that can only be found at Tokyo Disney Resort. Located in Urayasu, Chiba Prefecture, this park was built in 2001 and is nearly as populated as nearby Tokyo Disneyland. It’s also the most expensive theme park ever built.
Nicole Nowlin, a student at Pacific University in Oregon, is currently enrolled at KCP this summer term. She shared with us some photos of her and her friends when they recently visited DisneySea. The trip was planned by the students (not an official school excursion). It looks like Nicole and company had great fun!
Nicole and the other KCP students heading off to DisneySea on the Disney Resort Line, a monorail that loops around the major destinations of the Tokyo Disney Resort. KCP Flickr
Tokyo DisneySea has several park attractions (a.k.a. “ports of call”) brimming with fun and entertainment. One of them is the Mermaid Lagoon, based on The Little Mermaid.
The group of princesses at Ariel’s Greeting Grotto. KCP Flickr
Our KCP students also went on an adventure at the Arabian Coast, another port of call.
Here’s a fun shot of a resting camel with its merry rider!
KCP Flickr
At the American Waterfront, a facsimile of the northeastern seaboard of the United States in the early 1900s, Nicole and her friends had a blast riding the Japanese version of the Tower of Terror. It’s a free-fall ride guaranteed to give its brave passengers an adrenalin rush!
KCP Flickr
Thanks to Nicole and company for sharing all these fun photos with us!
Tags: KCP student Nicole Nowlin, KCP students, KCP students at DisneySea, Tokyo Disney Resort, Tokyo DisneySea
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from Tanaka-san
We went to Kamakura this weekend (4/23, 4/24) with our spring students, so I would like to share some photos.
Kamakura, a city in Kanagawa prefecture, is fairly close to Tokyo and has plenty of historical and architectural interest. It is full of Buddhist temples and Shinto shrines, and it also has a great beach.
We’re at Hase-dera (Hase Temple), about to enter a cave. The rain on Saturday and the sunshine on Sunday really ramped up the trees!
Inside Benten-Kutsu (a cave that commemorates the Benzaiten goddess) in Hase-dera. It is narrow, with low ceilings, so the tall U.S. students need to crouch down.
In front of Kamakura Daibutsu (the Great Buddha statue in Kamakura). Students said that they saw many American tourists on-site and they are happy for that.
Obamaccha ice cream. Interesting flavors.
Ice cream shops in the Hase area that sell Maccha green tea ice cream call the ice cream flavor ”Obamaccha,” since President Obama visited Kamakura and enjoyed the ice cream. Green tea? Sweet potato? Some careful tasing going on.
Gathering his nerve before trying the green tea and vanilla. Obamaccha ice
cream . . . probably Mr. Obama did not imagine this coming.
Sunday’s Enoshima island. Up the hill is the shrine; there is a long line of people waiting to pray.
Very, very crowded, with lots of tourists. It was fine weather, so no wonder.
Tags: Enoshima Island, Hase Temple, Hase-dera, Japan, Japanese culture, Obamaccha, travel
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