The Eizan Train in Kyoto runs through a tunnel of 280 Japanese maple trees. The tunnel of Japanese maple trees is located in the mountain valley in the northern part of Kyoto. Eizan train is a railway that runs around the northern part of Kyoto and connects Demachiyanagi Station and Kurama Station. This tunnel continues for about 820 feet between Ichihara Station and Ninose Station. In this section, you can enjoy the “green tunnel” of fresh green maple leaves during spring and summer, the “red tunnel” of maple leaves brightly colored in autumn colors in the fall, and lastly in the winter, a snow-covered world that spreads as far as eyes can see from the train windows. Train runs in a slower pace to make it easier for its passengers to enjoy the view during these seasons. Trees are lightened up during the season of autumn foliage. The illuminated trees at night shining in a burning, blazing red are also very attractive. Riding on a train on the observatory railway “Kirara” with larger windows may be a good choice too. You can enjoy the scenery along the railway even more!

The statue of the loyal dog “Hachiko” can be found just outside Shibuya Station’s Hachiko gate. The 162cm-tall statue was built in 1934, and stands elevated 180cm from the ground. Today, the statue of Hachiko has become a symbol of Shibuya and a popular landmark for meetups and tourism. Hachiko is based on an Akita dog named Hachi, whose owner was a professor of the Tokyo Imperial University. Even after the sudden death of his owner, Hachi continued to wait for his return at the ticketing gate. The story of this loyal dog, Hachiko inspired film and literature worldwide, time and again. Another statue of Hachiko can be found in front of Tower Records Shibuya, but this one is warped diagonally in a peculiar way. In front of the Hachiko statue is a green train car formerly used on the Toyoko line, and by Shibuya Station’s south gate is a lesser-known monument named the “Moyai Statue”. The nearby department stores also carry souvenirs related to Hachiko.

Tokyo Skytree is Tokyo’s newest iconic landmark, whose 634m height takes the thrown as the world’s tallest free-standing radio tower. The two observation decks give a view of Tokyo like no other, and under clear skies, might even let you see Mount Fuji. Under Tokyo Skytree is “Tokyo Solamachi”, a combined entertainment complex. With shops, restaurants, and even a planetarium and aquarium, there is enough here to spend a whole day exploring. (DEC 2.2020)

The University of Tokyo is a public university located in the Bunkyo Ward of Tokyo. Built in 1877, the University of Tokyo is one of Japan’s most prestigious universities. About 30,000 students attend the school across its five different campuses. The Hongo Campus can be said as the university’s main campus. The campus is built on the ruins of the feudal Maeda Family’s house. The famous Akamon, or red gate of the University of Tokyo, can be found on this campus. The gingko trees at the Hongo Campus are well known as well. Every autumn, the ginkgos turn into a rich yellow color and decorate the campus. You can also find a statue of Hachiko at the Hongo Campus. Hachiko’s owner, Professor Ueno Hidesaburo, taught at the University of Tokyo. A statue of Professor Ueno and hchiko can be found on the Faculty of Agriculture’s grounds.

Tokyo Station is essential in Japanese transportation in terms of both usage and historical significance. After the completion of its grand reconstruction in 2012, the station was rebuilt to resemble its appearance when it was first built 100 years ago. Inside are a plethora of shops and restaurants as well. The JR EAST Travel Service Center located inside provides guidance in foreign languages.

Kichi-joji PukuPuku runs two shops in Kichi-joji. The Nishi-koen-mae store is the original store. PukuPuku is a treasure trove of antique dishes. Many of the pieces were created during the Edo period, more than two to three hundred years ago. It is the perfect place to search for vintage Japanese tableware. The blue and white plates are Ko-imari porcelain, or traditional Imari ware. The vintage Japanese porcelains are well preserved and have retained their original vibrant colors. It is also worth noting that Edo period ceramics were hand painted, so no two pieces are alike. Have fun examining each plate and finding your favorite pattern.