Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Sights
1
Yasukuni-jinja
SHINTŌ SHRINE
OFFLINE MAP
GOOGLE MAP
Literally 'For the Peace of the Country Shrine', Yasukuni is the memorial to
Japan's war dead of 2.5 million souls. It's a beautiful shrine, completed in 1869
and with
torii
(gates) made unusually out of steel and bronze. It is also incredibly
controversial: in 1978 14 class-A war criminals were enshrined here. See
Click here
for more information.
( 3261-8326;
www.yasukuni.or.jp
;
3-1-1 Kudan-kita, Chiyoda-ku;
Hanzōmon Line to Kudanshita, exit 1)
2
Koishikawa Kōrakuen
GARDEN
OFFLINE MAP
GOOGLE MAP
Established in the mid-17th century as the property of the Tokugawa clan, this
70,000 sq metre formal garden incorporates elements of Chinese and Japanese
landscaping, although nowadays the
shakkei
(borrowed scenery) includes Tokyo
Dome stadium. The garden is famed for plum trees in February, irises in June and
autumn colours. Don't miss the Engetsu-kyō (Full-Moon Bridge), which dates
from the early Edo period.
( 1-6-6 Kōraku, Bunkyō-ku; adult/child ¥300/free;
9am-5pm;
JR Sōbu Line to Iidabashi, exit C3)
3
Kagurazaka
NEIGHBOURHOOD
OFFLINE MAP
GOOGLE MAP
Kagurazaka is an old geisha quarter that's worth a visit more for an atmospheric
stroll than for any particular sights. From Sotobori-dōri, head up Kagurazaka Hill,
turn right at Royal Host restaurant, and wander the lanes. If you're very lucky, in
the evening you might catch a glimpse of one of the few geisha who still work in
the area.
(
JR Sōbu Line to Iidabashi, west exit)
