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  • Many visitors do not realize that beyond Tokyo's shiny architecture there are neighborhoods unchanged from a century ago. Yanaka is one of these neighborhoods, lovingly referred to by the Japanese as shitamachi or downtown. Like most shitamachi neighborhoods, Yamaka is a low-rise, almost rural place that makes Tokyo lovable and livable, taking us back to another era.
    yanaka-shop-2.jpg
  • Many visitors do not realize that beyond Tokyo's shiny architecture there are neighborhoods unchanged from a century ago. Yanaka is one of these neighborhoods, lovingly referred to by the Japanese as shitamachi or downtown. Like most shitamachi neighborhoods, Yamaka is a low-rise, almost rural place that makes Tokyo lovable and livable, taking us back to another era.
    yanaka-shop-1.jpg
  • Tokyo Teleport - Odaiba is a large artificial island in Tokyo, featuring many modern and just plain strange buildings.  Administratively a part of the Minato, Koto and Shinagawa districts, the area is now a very popular shopping and entertainment destination.
    tokyo-teleport-1.jpg
  • Tokyo Teleport - Odaiba is a large artificial island in Tokyo, featuring many modern and just plain strange buildings.  Administratively a part of the Minato, Koto and Shinagawa districts, the area is now a very popular shopping and entertainment destination.
    tokyo-teleport-2.jpg
  • The Rainbow Bridge was designed to allow ships to safely pass under the bridge, but as it is close to Haneda airport it could not be built over a certain height to allow for safe airline paths. It is a two storey bridge with monorail train on one level and an expressway on another level. It is lit up at night, along with the Statue of LIberty replica and Tokyo Tower in the distance, giving it a "romantic" look.
    odaiba-rainbow-bridge-3.jpg
  • The Rainbow Bridge was designed to allow ships to safely pass under the bridge, but as it is close to Haneda airport it could not be built over a certain height to allow for safe airline paths. It is a two storey bridge with monorail train on one level and an expressway on another level. It is lit up at night, along with the Statue of LIberty replica and Tokyo Tower in the distance, giving it a "romantic" look.
    odaiba-rainbow-bridge-2.jpg
  • The Rainbow Bridge was designed to allow ships to safely pass under the bridge, but as it is close to Haneda airport it could not be built over a certain height to allow for safe airline paths. It is a two storey bridge with monorail train on one level and an expressway on another level. It is lit up at night, along with the Statue of LIberty replica and Tokyo Tower in the distance, giving it a "romantic" look.
    odaiba-rainbow-bridge-1.jpg
  • The Rainbow Bridge was designed to allow ships to safely pass under the bridge, but as it is close to Haneda airport it could not be built over a certain height to allow for safe airline paths. It is a two storey bridge with monorail train on one level and an expressway on another level. It is lit up at night, along with the Statue of LIberty replica and Tokyo Tower in the distance, giving it a "romantic" look.
    rainbow-bridge-1.jpg
  • "Saw, Sawing" is a 46 ft tall sculpture which meets the rigorous earthquake and wind load requirements of the Japanese building code while maintaining the true proportions required by the artists.  Commissioned by the Tokyo Municipal Government this monumental sculpture was created by American artists Swedish-born Claes Oldenburg and Dutch-born Coosje van Bruggen.
    saw-sawing-1.jpg
  • Tokyo Station opened in 1914. During this early era, the station only had gates on the Marunouchi side. Much of the station was destroyed in 1945 during WWII though the station was quickly rebuilt within the year with simple angular roofs. The Marunouchi part of the station was restored to pre-war condition completed in October 2012 . The bombing of Tokyo during World War II caused extensive damage to the Tokyo Station building, shattering the domes which originally adorned the rooftops of the building. Angular rooftops  replaced the domes in the 1946 restoration, but remained until 2012. The surrounding area has been converted into a plaza extending toward the Imperial Palace, reviving the area to its former spacious and lively character.
    tokyo-station-3.jpg
  • Tokyo Station opened in 1914. During this early era, the station only had gates on the Marunouchi side. Much of the station was destroyed in 1945 during WWII though the station was quickly rebuilt within the year with simple angular roofs. The Marunouchi part of the station was restored to pre-war condition completed in October 2012 . The bombing of Tokyo during World War II caused extensive damage to the Tokyo Station building, shattering the domes which originally adorned the rooftops of the building. Angular rooftops  replaced the domes in the 1946 restoration, but remained until 2012. The surrounding area has been converted into a plaza extending toward the Imperial Palace, reviving the area to its former spacious and lively character.
    tokyo-station-4.jpg
  • Tokyo Station opened in 1914. During this early era, the station only had gates on the Marunouchi side. Much of the station was destroyed in 1945 during WWII though the station was quickly rebuilt within the year with simple angular roofs. The Marunouchi part of the station was restored to pre-war condition completed in October 2012 . The bombing of Tokyo during World War II caused extensive damage to the Tokyo Station building, shattering the domes which originally adorned the rooftops of the building. Angular rooftops  replaced the domes in the 1946 restoration, but remained until 2012. The surrounding area has been converted into a plaza extending toward the Imperial Palace, reviving the area to its former spacious and lively character.
    tokyo-station-dome-2.jpg
  • Tokyo Station opened in 1914. During this early era, the station only had gates on the Marunouchi side. Much of the station was destroyed in 1945 during WWII though the station was quickly rebuilt within the year with simple angular roofs. The Marunouchi part of the station was restored to pre-war condition completed in October 2012 . The bombing of Tokyo during World War II caused extensive damage to the Tokyo Station building, shattering the domes which originally adorned the rooftops of the building. Angular rooftops  replaced the domes in the 1946 restoration, but remained until 2012. The surrounding area has been converted into a plaza extending toward the Imperial Palace, reviving the area to its former spacious and lively character.
    tokyo-station-dome-1.jpg
  • Yasukuni Dori - At night, Shinjuku lights up like no other place on earth, especially around Kabuki-cho and Yasukuni Dori the entertainment district of Shinjuku.  Shinjuku is a also major commercial and administrative center of Tokyo, housing the busiest train station in the world: Shinjuku Station.  Surrounding Shinjuku Station are department stores, specialist electronic and camera shops, cinemas, restaurants and bars. Shinjuku has the highest numbers of registered foreign nationals of any community in Tokyo.
    yasukuni-dori-1.jpg
  • Yasukuni Dori - At night, Shinjuku lights up like no other place on earth, especially around Kabuki-cho and Yasukuni Dori the entertainment district of Shinjuku.  Shinjuku is a also major commercial and administrative center of Tokyo, housing the busiest train station in the world: Shinjuku Station.  Surrounding Shinjuku Station are department stores, specialist electronic and camera shops, cinemas, restaurants and bars. Shinjuku has the highest numbers of registered foreign nationals of any community in Tokyo.
    yasukuni-dori-2.jpg
  • Izakaya Outdoor Bar, Tokyo - Outdoor drinking establishment in Akasaka a popular watering hole in downtown Tokyo
    izakaya-1.jpg
  • Yakatabune boats on the Sumida River - "yakatabune asobi" - meaning something like "roofed-boat fun" is a pleasure synonymous with summer in Tokyo. The boats were first used exclusively by aristocrats and samurai from the eighth century but nowadays anyone with the yen can enjoy. They have always been closely associated with Tokyo Bay and the Sumida River as they are today.
    yakatabune-boats-3.jpg
  • Many visitors do not realize that beyond Tokyo's shiny architecture there are neighborhoods unchanged from a century ago.  Yanaka is one of these neighborhoods, lovingly referred to by the Japanese as shitamachi or downtown.  Like most shitamachi neighborhoods, Yamaka is a low-rise, almost rural place that makes Tokyo lovable and livable, taking us back to another era.
    yanaka-2.jpg
  • Boots Fashion Display - besides the ever-changing fashion scene in Harajuku, the boutiques each have their own specialities, this one does boots.
    boots-display.jpg
  • The Rainbow Bridge is something of an engineering feat. It was designed to allow ships to safely pass under the bridge, but as it is close to Haneda domestic airport it could not be built over a certain height to allow for safe airline paths. It is a two storey bridge with monorail train on one level and an expressway on another level.
    rainbow-bridge-2.jpg
  • The Fuji TV Building is the headquarters of Fuji Television, one of Japan's private, nationwide TV stations. You can see some exhibitions on popular programs, buy Fuji TV goods at the souvenir shop and access the futuristic looking building's observatory deck.
    fuji-television-building-1.jpg
  • Bonseki is the Japanese art of creating miniature landscapes on trays using bonsai, sand, pebbles, and rocks.  Bonseki scenes often illustrate mountains, seashores and gardens. Miniature structures are sometimes added to the work to make houses, temple and bridges. Bonseki scenes are preserved which is called Bonga or Suna-e.
    bonseki-1.jpg
  • Shinjuku Bright Lights - Metallic sculptures overlooking traffic at Yasukuni Street in Shinjuku - one of the main shopping and train terminals of Tokyo. This is Kabukicho an entertainment and red-light district in Shinjuku.. Kabukicho is the location of many hostess bars, host bars, love hotels, shops, restaurants, and nightclubs, and is often called the "Sleepless Town". The district's name comes from a 1940s plan to build a kabuki theater: although the theater was never built the name stuck.
    kabuki-cho-2.jpg
  • Tachinomiya run the gamut from grubby to pristine, seedy to swank. What they all have in common is low priced alcohol and light food..The tachinomiya and her sister, the izakaya, appeared around the beginning of the Edo period. The last decade has seen a tachinomiya revival in Tokyo. New, sparkling clean, nicely appointed shops, purveying drinks and snacks..
    izakaya-2.jpg
  • Shinjuku Bright Lights - Metallic sculptures overlooking traffic at Yasukuni Street in Shinjuku - one of the main shopping and train terminals of Tokyo. This is Kabukicho an entertainment and red-light district in Shinjuku.. Kabukicho is the location of many hostess bars, host bars, love hotels, shops, restaurants, and nightclubs, and is often called the "Sleepless Town". The district's name comes from a 1940s plan to build a kabuki theater: although the theater was never built the name stuck.
    kabuki-cho-1.jpg
  • Izakaya and tachinomiya run the gamut from grubby to pristine, seedy to swank. What they all have in common is low priced alcohol and light food. The tachinomiya and her sister, the izakaya, appeared around the beginning of the Edo period. The last decade has seen a tachinomiya revival in Tokyo. New, sparkling clean, nicely appointed shops, purveying drinks and snacks some with stools or beer crates as seats have supplanted the "standing room only" rule of tachinomiya, blurring the lines between tachinomiya (standing bar)  izakaya (bar with seats).
    izakaya-4.jpg
  • Kappabashi Mural - Kappabashi is a district in Tokyo with shops supplying the restaurant trade that sell everything from glass, ceramics, knives, and food decorations.  Kappabashi is probably most famous for its ubiquitous plastic display food replicas found in Japanese restaurants to display their items.
    kappabashi-25.jpg
  • Omotesando Hills In the 80 years since the Dojunkai Aoyama Apartment complex was completed in 1927, Omotesando, the main street running through Harajuku and Aoyama, has long been an attraction to people in Tokyo, and it continues to be a cultural center today. In 2006, Dojunkai Aoyama Apartment complex was torn down to make way for Omotesando Hills, a fashion shoppping complex.
    omotesando-hills.jpg
  • Kappabashi Chef Town - Kappabashi is a street in Tokyo which is almost entirely populated with shops supplying the restaurant trade. These shops sell everything from knives, restaurant decorations, plastic display food samples found in Japanese restaurants to display their menus. The street has also become an offbeat tourist destination thanks to the wacky displays and unique souvenir items found only in Japan.  The street's name is believed to come from the popular mythical creature, the Kappa, a Japanese water demon.
    kappabashi-26.jpg
  • Japanese Businessmen or Salarymen as they are called in Japan.  Salaryman is a generic term which conveniently masks the worker's station in life and his company.
    japanese-businessmen.jpg
  • Kappabashi Shoppers - Kappabashi is a street in Tokyo which is almost entirely populated with shops supplying the restaurant trade. These shops sell everything from knives, restaurant decorations, plastic display food samples found in Japanese restaurants to display their menus. The street has also become an offbeat tourist destination thanks to the wacky displays and unique souvenir items found only in Japan.  The street's name is believed to come from the popular mythical creature, the Kappa, a Japanese water demon.
    kappabashi-4.jpg
  • Tokyo Dome is part of a greater entertainment complex known as Tokyo Dome City. Tokyo Dome City includes an amusement park formerly  the Korakuen Stadium site and includes a roller coaster named Thunder Dolphin and a hubless Ferris wheel.  Today the amusement center has morphed into a giant shopping and dining complex, though its principal attraction are the rides, very popular with Tokyo youngsters.
    korakuen-amusement-park-01.jpg
  • Shinjuku Station Plaza - Shinjuku is one of several cities within the city of Tokyo. It is a major commercial and administrative center, housing the busiest train station in the world - Shinjuku Station.  The Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building, the administration center for the government of Tokyo or "tochomae" is located here. Surrounding Shinjuku Station are department stores, specialist electronic and camera shops, cinemas, restaurants and bars as well as many international hotels.
    shinjuku-station-plaza.jpg
  • Kappabashi Kitchenware Shop - Kappabashi is a district in Asakusa Tokyo dedicated to shops supplying the restaurant trade which sell everything from cutlery, glassware,cutting boards, food decorations as well as the unique plastic display food samples that make unique souvenir items found only in Japan.
    kappabashi-24.jpg
  • One of Japan's most crowded, noisy and popular cherry blossom spots, Ueno Park features more than 1000 trees along the street leading towards the National Museum and around Shinobazu Pond. Rather than the poetic, quiet, contemplative scene that one might expect, the sake-fueled revelry goes into the night with companies celebrating springtime with karaoke sessions in this type of hanami or cherry blossom viewing party.
    ueno-park-sakura-3.jpg
  • One of Japan's most crowded, noisy and popular cherry blossom spots, Ueno Park features more than 1000 trees along the street leading towards the National Museum and around Shinobazu Pond. Rather than the poetic, quiet, contemplative scene that one might expect, the sake-fueled revelry goes into the night with companies celebrating springtime with karaoke sessions in this type of hanami or cherry blossom viewing party.
    ueno-park-sakura-5.jpg
  • Ameyoko Market Izakaya - Japanese salarymen drinking the night away  at Ameyocho - a popular market area near Ueno Station that comes to life in the evenings with al fresco bars, vendor stands, snacks and the occasional scene or drama.
    ameyoko-4.jpg
  • Nakamise Street is one of the oldest shopping centers in Japan.  The Tokugawa Shogunate established Edo (now Tokyo) which grew along with visitors to Sensoji Temple.  Locals who served visitors at Sensoji Temple were given special rights to open shops along the approach road to the temple. In the Edo period shops located near Kaminarimon selling toys, sweets, snacks, and souvenirs pretty much as they do today.  Seasonal decorations adorn the street, giving the area a touch of color.
    nakamise-street-1.jpg
  • Kaminarimon "Thunder Gate"  is the outer of two large entrance gates that ultimately leads to Sensoji Temple. The gate's most famous feature is the huge red lantern. Sensoji is Tokyo's oldest temple and one of its most significant. Formerly associated with the Tendai sect, it became independent after World War II. Adjacent to the temple is  Asakusa Shrine.
    japanese-high-school-boys.jpg
  • Shinjuku Eye by the artist Miyashita Yoshiko at the west exit of Shinjuku station since 1969..Although it is so eye-catching most people just rush by without paying attention to the huge piece of glass art.  Shinjuku Station serves as main connecting hub for rail traffic between central Tokyo and its western suburbs many railway and subway train lines.  The station is used by an average of 3.6 million people per day, making it the world's busiest transport hub with 36 platforms, an underground arcade, and over 200 exits.  .
    shinjuku-eye-1.jpg
  • Moyai at Shibuya Station - On average, half a million people pass through Shibuya Crossing every day and 3000 per crossing cycle, peaking at around 4 in the afternoon.  Amazingly, there are few collisions between people, considering that everyone is walking at cross-purposes, so to speak.  This is quite possibly a testament to Japanese civility.  Or is it simply care and cautiousness?  One thing for sure is that Tokyo people do know how to handle being in a crowded place, and are accustomed to dodging oncoming humanity.  The scene fascinates foreigners who are not used to such crowds without the situation becoming a riot.  Instead, the Shibuya Scramble is more like a ballet of precision timing and graceful movements at its best, and a frantic struggle to get to the other side as efficiently as possible.  After that hectic hustle across the intersection, pause to catch your breath at the famous statue of dear old Hachiko in front of the station.
    shibuya-moyai-1.jpg
  • Shibuya Crossing Scramble - On average, half a million people pass through Shibuya Crossing every day and 3000 per crossing cycle, peaking at around 4 in the afternoon.  Amazingly, there are few collisions between people, considering that everyone is walking at cross-purposes, so to speak.  This is quite possibly a testament to Japanese civility.  Or is it simply care and cautiousness?  One thing for sure is that Tokyo people do know how to handle being in a crowded place, and are accustomed to dodging oncoming humanity.  The scene fascinates foreigners who are not used to such crowds without the situation becoming a riot.  Instead, the Shibuya Scramble is more like a ballet of precision timing and graceful movements at its best, and a frantic struggle to get to the other side as efficiently as possible.  After that hectic hustle across the intersection, pause to catch your breath at the famous statue of dear old Hachiko in front of the station.
    shibuya-crossing-4.jpg
  • Shibuya Crossing Scramble - On average, half a million people pass through Shibuya Crossing every day and 3000 per crossing cycle, peaking at around 4 in the afternoon.  Amazingly, there are few collisions between people, considering that everyone is walking at cross-purposes, so to speak.  This is quite possibly a testament to Japanese civility.  Or is it simply care and cautiousness?  One thing for sure is that Tokyo people do know how to handle being in a crowded place, and are accustomed to dodging oncoming humanity.  The scene fascinates foreigners who are not used to such crowds without the situation becoming a riot.  Instead, the Shibuya Scramble is more like a ballet of precision timing and graceful movements at its best, and a frantic struggle to get to the other side as efficiently as possible.  After that hectic hustle across the intersection, pause to catch your breath at the famous statue of dear old Hachiko in front of the station.
    shibuya-crossing-1.jpg
  • Shibuya Crossing Scramble - On average, half a million people pass through Shibuya Crossing every day and 3000 per crossing cycle, peaking at around 4 in the afternoon.  Amazingly, there are few collisions between people, considering that everyone is walking at cross-purposes, so to speak.  This is quite possibly a testament to Japanese civility.  Or is it simply care and cautiousness?  One thing for sure is that Tokyo people do know how to handle being in a crowded place, and are accustomed to dodging oncoming humanity.  The scene fascinates foreigners who are not used to such crowds without the situation becoming a riot.  Instead, the Shibuya Scramble is more like a ballet of precision timing and graceful movements at its best, and a frantic struggle to get to the other side as efficiently as possible.  After that hectic hustle across the intersection, pause to catch your breath at the famous statue of dear old Hachiko in front of the station.
    shibuya-crossing-2.jpg
  • Takeshita Street in Harajuku is the place to go for your bizarre costume needs. Have you just been dying to dress up like your favorite cartoon character and can't wait for Halloween?  Harajuku is a fantasy world and what would be jaw-droppingly bizarre anywhere else in the world, is par for the course here.   Japan is often described as a country of paradoxes, hung between the traditional and the modern.  Harajuku displays these contrasts like no other place in Japan. Tokyo is a city that's usually dressed to the nines - a place that prides itself on being well turned out.  But a carnival-like scene has been going on for years in Harajuku with costumes that are outlandish, fun, colorful, quirky and sometimes kinky.
    takeshita-street-4.jpg
  • Takeshita Street in Harajuku is the place to go for your bizarre costume needs. Have you just been dying to dress up like your favorite cartoon character and can't wait for Halloween?  Harajuku is a fantasy world and what would be jaw-droppingly bizarre anywhere else in the world, is par for the course here.   Japan is often described as a country of paradoxes, hung between the traditional and the modern.  Harajuku displays these contrasts like no other place in Japan. Tokyo is a city that's usually dressed to the nines - a place that prides itself on being well turned out.  But a carnival-like scene has been going on for years in Harajuku with costumes that are outlandish, fun, colorful, quirky and sometimes kinky.
    takeshita-street-1.jpg
  • Shibuya Crossing Scramble - On average, half a million people pass through Shibuya Crossing every day and 3000 per crossing cycle, peaking at around 4 in the afternoon.  Amazingly, there are few collisions between people, considering that everyone is walking at cross-purposes, so to speak.  This is quite possibly a testament to Japanese civility.  Or is it simply care and cautiousness?  One thing for sure is that Tokyo people do know how to handle being in a crowded place, and are accustomed to dodging oncoming humanity.  The scene fascinates foreigners who are not used to such crowds without the situation becoming a riot.  Instead, the Shibuya Scramble is more like a ballet of precision timing and graceful movements at its best, and a frantic struggle to get to the other side as efficiently as possible.  After that hectic hustle across the intersection, pause to catch your breath at the famous statue of dear old Hachiko in front of the station.
    shibuya-crossing-3.jpg
  • Takeshita Street in Harajuku is the place to go for your bizarre costume needs. Have you just been dying to dress up like your favorite cartoon character and can't wait for Halloween?  Harajuku is a fantasy world and what would be jaw-droppingly bizarre anywhere else in the world, is par for the course here.   Japan is often described as a country of paradoxes, hung between the traditional and the modern.  Harajuku displays these contrasts like no other place in Japan. Tokyo is a city that's usually dressed to the nines - a place that prides itself on being well turned out.  But a carnival-like scene has been going on for years in Harajuku with costumes that are outlandish, fun, colorful, quirky and sometimes kinky.
    takeshita-street-6.jpg
  • Takeshita Street in Harajuku is the place to go for your bizarre costume needs. Have you just been dying to dress up like your favorite cartoon character and can't wait for Halloween?  Harajuku is a fantasy world and what would be jaw-droppingly bizarre anywhere else in the world, is par for the course here.   Japan is often described as a country of paradoxes, hung between the traditional and the modern.  Harajuku displays these contrasts like no other place in Japan. Tokyo is a city that's usually dressed to the nines - a place that prides itself on being well turned out.  But a carnival-like scene has been going on for years in Harajuku with costumes that are outlandish, fun, colorful, quirky and sometimes kinky.
    takeshita-street-3.jpg
  • Izakaya and tachinomiya run the gamut from grubby to pristine, seedy to swank. What they all have in common is low priced alcohol and light food. The tachinomiya and her sister, the izakaya, appeared around the beginning of the Edo period. The last decade has seen a tachinomiya revival in Tokyo. New, sparkling clean, nicely appointed shops, purveying drinks and snacks some with stools or beer crates as seats have supplanted the "standing room only" rule of tachinomiya, blurring the lines between tachinomiya (standing bar)  izakaya (bar with seats)
    ameyoko-1.jpg
  • Azuma Bridge at Asakusa, crossing over the Sumida River.  Tokyo's 12 Sumida River bridges are now illuminated in hopes of making the city more attractive ahead of the city's bid for the 2016 Olympics.
    azuma-bridge-2.jpg
  • Azuma Bridge at Asakusa, crossing over the Sumida River.  Tokyo's 12 Sumida River bridges are now illuminated in hopes of making the city more attractive ahead of the city's bid for the 2016 Olympics.
    azuma-bridge-02.jpg
  • Golden Obelisk, designed by Philippe Starck at Odaiba, just one of the many unusual structures and architectural marvels assembled on Tokyo's landfill island.
    odaiba-obelisk.jpg
  • Saving a Spot at Ueno Park - one of Japan's most crowded, noisy and popular cherry blossom spots, Ueno Park features more than 1000 trees along the street leading towards the National Museum and around Shinobazu Pond. Rather than the poetic, quiet, contemplative scene that one might expect, the sake-fueled revelry goes into the night with companies celebrating springtime with karaoke sessions in this type of hanami or cherry blossom viewing party.
    ueno-park-sakura-1.jpg
  • One of Japan's most crowded, noisy and popular cherry blossom spots, Ueno Park features more than 1000 trees along the street leading towards the National Museum and around Shinobazu Pond. Rather than the poetic, quiet, contemplative scene that one might expect, the sake-fueled revelry goes into the night with companies celebrating springtime with karaoke sessions in this type of hanami or cherry blossom viewing party.
    ueno-park-sakura-2.jpg
  • Fashion Boutique Harajuku, besides the ever-changing fashion scene in Harajuku, the boutiques each have their own flair.
    harajuku-boutique.jpg
  • Kabuki is a traditional Japanese form of theater developed during the Edo Period.  Kabuki is rich in showmanship and involves elaborately designed costumes, outlandish wigs, extraordinary makeup and exaggerated actions performed by the actors. Highly stylized movements convey meaning to the audience; this is especially important since an old-fashioned form of Japanese is typically used, which is difficult for speakers of modern Japanese to fully understand.  Plots are based on historical events, moral conflicts, love stories, tales of tragedy of conspiracy, and other well-known stories.  Dynamic stage sets: revolving platforms and trapdoors allow for the quick changing of a scene or the appearance or disappearance of actors.  Another specialty of the kabuki stage is a footbridge that leads through the audience, allowing for a dramatic entrance or exit. Ambiance is aided with live music performed using traditional instruments. These elements combine to produce a stunning performance.  Kabuki is recognized as one of Japan's three major classical theaters along with noh and bunraku, and has been named as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage.
    kabuki-6.jpg
  • Kabuki is a traditional Japanese form of theater developed during the Edo Period.  Kabuki is rich in showmanship and involves elaborately designed costumes, outlandish wigs, extraordinary makeup and exaggerated actions performed by the actors. Highly stylized movements convey meaning to the audience; this is especially important since an old-fashioned form of Japanese is typically used, which is difficult for speakers of modern Japanese to fully understand.  Plots are based on historical events, moral conflicts, love stories, tales of tragedy of conspiracy, and other well-known stories.  Dynamic stage sets: revolving platforms and trapdoors allow for the quick changing of a scene or the appearance or disappearance of actors.  Another specialty of the kabuki stage is a footbridge that leads through the audience, allowing for a dramatic entrance or exit. Ambiance is aided with live music performed using traditional instruments. These elements combine to produce a stunning performance.  Kabuki is recognized as one of Japan's three major classical theaters along with noh and bunraku, and has been named as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage.
    kabuki-4.jpg
  • Kabuki is a traditional Japanese form of theater developed during the Edo Period.  Kabuki is rich in showmanship and involves elaborately designed costumes, outlandish wigs, extraordinary makeup and exaggerated actions performed by the actors. Highly stylized movements convey meaning to the audience; this is especially important since an old-fashioned form of Japanese is typically used, which is difficult for speakers of modern Japanese to fully understand.  Plots are based on historical events, moral conflicts, love stories, tales of tragedy of conspiracy, and other well-known stories.  Dynamic stage sets: revolving platforms and trapdoors allow for the quick changing of a scene or the appearance or disappearance of actors.  Another specialty of the kabuki stage is a footbridge that leads through the audience, allowing for a dramatic entrance or exit. Ambiance is aided with live music performed using traditional instruments. These elements combine to produce a stunning performance.  Kabuki is recognized as one of Japan's three major classical theaters along with noh and bunraku, and has been named as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage.
    kabuki-3.jpg
  • Kabuki is a traditional Japanese form of theater developed during the Edo Period.  Kabuki is rich in showmanship and involves elaborately designed costumes, outlandish wigs, extraordinary makeup and exaggerated actions performed by the actors. Highly stylized movements convey meaning to the audience; this is especially important since an old-fashioned form of Japanese is typically used, which is difficult for speakers of modern Japanese to fully understand.  Plots are based on historical events, moral conflicts, love stories, tales of tragedy of conspiracy, and other well-known stories.  Dynamic stage sets: revolving platforms and trapdoors allow for the quick changing of a scene or the appearance or disappearance of actors.  Another specialty of the kabuki stage is a footbridge that leads through the audience, allowing for a dramatic entrance or exit. Ambiance is aided with live music performed using traditional instruments. These elements combine to produce a stunning performance.  Kabuki is recognized as one of Japan's three major classical theaters along with noh and bunraku, and has been named as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage.
    kabuki-2.jpg
  • Kabuki is a traditional Japanese form of theater developed during the Edo Period.  Kabuki is rich in showmanship and involves elaborately designed costumes, outlandish wigs, extraordinary makeup and exaggerated actions performed by the actors. Highly stylized movements convey meaning to the audience; this is especially important since an old-fashioned form of Japanese is typically used, which is difficult for speakers of modern Japanese to fully understand.  Plots are based on historical events, moral conflicts, love stories, tales of tragedy of conspiracy, and other well-known stories.  Dynamic stage sets: revolving platforms and trapdoors allow for the quick changing of a scene or the appearance or disappearance of actors.  Another specialty of the kabuki stage is a footbridge that leads through the audience, allowing for a dramatic entrance or exit. Ambiance is aided with live music performed using traditional instruments. These elements combine to produce a stunning performance.  Kabuki is recognized as one of Japan's three major classical theaters along with noh and bunraku, and has been named as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage.
    kabuki-1.jpg
  • Kabuki Costume - Kabuki is a traditional Japanese form of theater developed during the Edo Period.  Kabuki is rich in showmanship and involves elaborately designed costumes, outlandish wigs, extraordinary makeup and exaggerated actions performed by the actors. Highly stylized movements convey meaning to the audience; this is especially important since an old-fashioned form of Japanese is typically used, which is difficult for speakers of modern Japanese to fully understand.  Plots are based on historical events, moral conflicts, love stories, tales of tragedy of conspiracy, and other well-known stories.  Dynamic stage sets: revolving platforms and trapdoors allow for the quick changing of a scene or the appearance or disappearance of actors.  Another specialty of the kabuki stage is a footbridge that leads through the audience, allowing for a dramatic entrance or exit. Ambiance is aided with live music performed using traditional instruments. These elements combine to produce a stunning performance.  Kabuki is recognized as one of Japan's three major classical theaters along with noh and bunraku, and has been named as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage.
    kabuki-costumes-12.jpg
  • Kabuki Costume - Kabuki is a traditional Japanese form of theater developed during the Edo Period.  Kabuki is rich in showmanship and involves elaborately designed costumes, outlandish wigs, extraordinary makeup and exaggerated actions performed by the actors. Highly stylized movements convey meaning to the audience; this is especially important since an old-fashioned form of Japanese is typically used, which is difficult for speakers of modern Japanese to fully understand.  Plots are based on historical events, moral conflicts, love stories, tales of tragedy of conspiracy, and other well-known stories.  Dynamic stage sets: revolving platforms and trapdoors allow for the quick changing of a scene or the appearance or disappearance of actors.  Another specialty of the kabuki stage is a footbridge that leads through the audience, allowing for a dramatic entrance or exit. Ambiance is aided with live music performed using traditional instruments. These elements combine to produce a stunning performance.  Kabuki is recognized as one of Japan's three major classical theaters along with noh and bunraku, and has been named as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage.
    kabuki-costumes-11.jpg
  • Kabuki Poster - Kabuki is a traditional Japanese form of theater developed during the Edo Period.  Kabuki is rich in showmanship and involves elaborately designed costumes, outlandish wigs, extraordinary makeup and exaggerated actions performed by the actors. Highly stylized movements convey meaning to the audience; this is especially important since an old-fashioned form of Japanese is typically used, which is difficult for speakers of modern Japanese to fully understand.  Plots are based on historical events, moral conflicts, love stories, tales of tragedy of conspiracy, and other well-known stories.  Dynamic stage sets: revolving platforms and trapdoors allow for the quick changing of a scene or the appearance or disappearance of actors.  Another specialty of the kabuki stage is a footbridge that leads through the audience, allowing for a dramatic entrance or exit. Ambiance is aided with live music performed using traditional instruments. These elements combine to produce a stunning performance.  Kabuki is recognized as one of Japan's three major classical theaters along with noh and bunraku, and has been named as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage.
    kabuki-za-1.jpg
  • Kabuki-za Stage - Kabuki is a traditional Japanese form of theater developed during the Edo Period.  Kabuki is rich in showmanship and involves elaborately designed costumes, outlandish wigs, extraordinary makeup and exaggerated actions performed by the actors. Highly stylized movements convey meaning to the audience; this is especially important since an old-fashioned form of Japanese is typically used, which is difficult for speakers of modern Japanese to fully understand.  Plots are based on historical events, moral conflicts, love stories, tales of tragedy of conspiracy, and other well-known stories.  Dynamic stage sets: revolving platforms and trapdoors allow for the quick changing of a scene or the appearance or disappearance of actors.  Another specialty of the kabuki stage is a footbridge that leads through the audience, allowing for a dramatic entrance or exit. Ambiance is aided with live music performed using traditional instruments. These elements combine to produce a stunning performance.  Kabuki is recognized as one of Japan's three major classical theaters along with noh and bunraku, and has been named as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage.
    kabuki-za-gallery-8.jpg
  • Kabuki-za Stage - Kabuki is a traditional Japanese form of theater developed during the Edo Period.  Kabuki is rich in showmanship and involves elaborately designed costumes, outlandish wigs, extraordinary makeup and exaggerated actions performed by the actors. Highly stylized movements convey meaning to the audience; this is especially important since an old-fashioned form of Japanese is typically used, which is difficult for speakers of modern Japanese to fully understand.  Plots are based on historical events, moral conflicts, love stories, tales of tragedy of conspiracy, and other well-known stories.  Dynamic stage sets: revolving platforms and trapdoors allow for the quick changing of a scene or the appearance or disappearance of actors.  Another specialty of the kabuki stage is a footbridge that leads through the audience, allowing for a dramatic entrance or exit. Ambiance is aided with live music performed using traditional instruments. These elements combine to produce a stunning performance.  Kabuki is recognized as one of Japan's three major classical theaters along with noh and bunraku, and has been named as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage.
    kabuki-za-gallery-9.jpg
  • Elaborate Kabuki Kimono - Kabuki is a traditional Japanese form of theater developed during the Edo Period.  Kabuki is rich in showmanship and involves elaborately designed costumes, outlandish wigs, extraordinary makeup and exaggerated actions performed by the actors. Highly stylized movements convey meaning to the audience; this is especially important since an old-fashioned form of Japanese is typically used, which is difficult for speakers of modern Japanese to fully understand.  Plots are based on historical events, moral conflicts, love stories, tales of tragedy of conspiracy, and other well-known stories.  Dynamic stage sets: revolving platforms and trapdoors allow for the quick changing of a scene or the appearance or disappearance of actors.  Another specialty of the kabuki stage is a footbridge that leads through the audience, allowing for a dramatic entrance or exit. Ambiance is aided with live music performed using traditional instruments. These elements combine to produce a stunning performance.  Kabuki is recognized as one of Japan's three major classical theaters along with noh and bunraku, and has been named as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage.
    kabuki-za-gallery-5.jpg
  • Kabuki-za Stage - Kabuki is a traditional Japanese form of theater developed during the Edo Period.  Kabuki is rich in showmanship and involves elaborately designed costumes, outlandish wigs, extraordinary makeup and exaggerated actions performed by the actors. Highly stylized movements convey meaning to the audience; this is especially important since an old-fashioned form of Japanese is typically used, which is difficult for speakers of modern Japanese to fully understand.  Plots are based on historical events, moral conflicts, love stories, tales of tragedy of conspiracy, and other well-known stories.  Dynamic stage sets: revolving platforms and trapdoors allow for the quick changing of a scene or the appearance or disappearance of actors.  Another specialty of the kabuki stage is a footbridge that leads through the audience, allowing for a dramatic entrance or exit. Ambiance is aided with live music performed using traditional instruments. These elements combine to produce a stunning performance.  Kabuki is recognized as one of Japan's three major classical theaters along with noh and bunraku, and has been named as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage.
    kabuki-za-gallery-6.jpg
  • Kabuki actor Mizuka getting dressed for a performance. Kabuki is a traditional Japanese form of theater developed during the Edo Period.  Kabuki is rich in showmanship and involves elaborately designed costumes, outlandish wigs, extraordinary makeup and exaggerated actions performed by the actors. Highly stylized movements convey meaning to the audience; this is especially important since an old-fashioned form of Japanese is typically used, which is difficult for speakers of modern Japanese to fully understand.  Plots are based on historical events, moral conflicts, love stories, tales of tragedy of conspiracy, and other well-known stories.  Dynamic stage sets: revolving platforms and trapdoors allow for the quick changing of a scene or the appearance or disappearance of actors.  Another specialty of the kabuki stage is a footbridge that leads through the audience, allowing for a dramatic entrance or exit. Ambiance is aided with live music performed using traditional instruments. These elements combine to produce a stunning performance.  Kabuki is recognized as one of Japan's three major classical theaters along with noh and bunraku, and has been named as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage.
    kabuki-05.jpg
  • Kabuki Poster - Kabuki is a traditional Japanese form of theater developed during the Edo Period.  Kabuki is rich in showmanship and involves elaborately designed costumes, outlandish wigs, extraordinary makeup and exaggerated actions performed by the actors. Highly stylized movements convey meaning to the audience; this is especially important since an old-fashioned form of Japanese is typically used, which is difficult for speakers of modern Japanese to fully understand.  Plots are based on historical events, moral conflicts, love stories, tales of tragedy of conspiracy, and other well-known stories.  Dynamic stage sets: revolving platforms and trapdoors allow for the quick changing of a scene or the appearance or disappearance of actors.  Another specialty of the kabuki stage is a footbridge that leads through the audience, allowing for a dramatic entrance or exit. Ambiance is aided with live music performed using traditional instruments. These elements combine to produce a stunning performance.  Kabuki is recognized as one of Japan's three major classical theaters along with noh and bunraku, and has been named as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage.
    kabuki-poster-10.jpg
  • Kabuki Costume - Kabuki is a traditional Japanese form of theater developed during the Edo Period.  Kabuki is rich in showmanship and involves elaborately designed costumes, outlandish wigs, extraordinary makeup and exaggerated actions performed by the actors. Highly stylized movements convey meaning to the audience; this is especially important since an old-fashioned form of Japanese is typically used, which is difficult for speakers of modern Japanese to fully understand.  Plots are based on historical events, moral conflicts, love stories, tales of tragedy of conspiracy, and other well-known stories.  Dynamic stage sets: revolving platforms and trapdoors allow for the quick changing of a scene or the appearance or disappearance of actors.  Another specialty of the kabuki stage is a footbridge that leads through the audience, allowing for a dramatic entrance or exit. Ambiance is aided with live music performed using traditional instruments. These elements combine to produce a stunning performance.  Kabuki is recognized as one of Japan's three major classical theaters along with noh and bunraku, and has been named as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage.
    kabuki-costumes-13.jpg
  • Kabuki Costume - Kabuki is a traditional Japanese form of theater developed during the Edo Period.  Kabuki is rich in showmanship and involves elaborately designed costumes, outlandish wigs, extraordinary makeup and exaggerated actions performed by the actors. Highly stylized movements convey meaning to the audience; this is especially important since an old-fashioned form of Japanese is typically used, which is difficult for speakers of modern Japanese to fully understand.  Plots are based on historical events, moral conflicts, love stories, tales of tragedy of conspiracy, and other well-known stories.  Dynamic stage sets: revolving platforms and trapdoors allow for the quick changing of a scene or the appearance or disappearance of actors.  Another specialty of the kabuki stage is a footbridge that leads through the audience, allowing for a dramatic entrance or exit. Ambiance is aided with live music performed using traditional instruments. These elements combine to produce a stunning performance.  Kabuki is recognized as one of Japan's three major classical theaters along with noh and bunraku, and has been named as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage.
    kabuki-costumes-10.jpg
  • Kabuki Poster - Kabuki is a traditional Japanese form of theater developed during the Edo Period.  Kabuki is rich in showmanship and involves elaborately designed costumes, outlandish wigs, extraordinary makeup and exaggerated actions performed by the actors. Highly stylized movements convey meaning to the audience; this is especially important since an old-fashioned form of Japanese is typically used, which is difficult for speakers of modern Japanese to fully understand.  Plots are based on historical events, moral conflicts, love stories, tales of tragedy of conspiracy, and other well-known stories.  Dynamic stage sets: revolving platforms and trapdoors allow for the quick changing of a scene or the appearance or disappearance of actors.  Another specialty of the kabuki stage is a footbridge that leads through the audience, allowing for a dramatic entrance or exit. Ambiance is aided with live music performed using traditional instruments. These elements combine to produce a stunning performance.  Kabuki is recognized as one of Japan's three major classical theaters along with noh and bunraku, and has been named as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage.
    kabuki-za-2.jpg
  • Cutout at Kabuki-za Gallery - Kabuki is a traditional Japanese form of theater developed during the Edo Period.  Kabuki is rich in showmanship and involves elaborately designed costumes, outlandish wigs, extraordinary makeup and exaggerated actions performed by the actors. Highly stylized movements convey meaning to the audience; this is especially important since an old-fashioned form of Japanese is typically used, which is difficult for speakers of modern Japanese to fully understand.  Plots are based on historical events, moral conflicts, love stories, tales of tragedy of conspiracy, and other well-known stories.  Dynamic stage sets: revolving platforms and trapdoors allow for the quick changing of a scene or the appearance or disappearance of actors.  Another specialty of the kabuki stage is a footbridge that leads through the audience, allowing for a dramatic entrance or exit. Ambiance is aided with live music performed using traditional instruments. These elements combine to produce a stunning performance.  Kabuki is recognized as one of Japan's three major classical theaters along with noh and bunraku, and has been named as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage.
    kabuki-za-gallery-10.jpg
  • A hanamichi is a passagway used in kabuki theater, and runs through the theater.  At the end of the aisle hangs an agemako curtain from which actors enter and exit the stage.  Kabuki is a traditional Japanese form of theater developed during the Edo Period.  Kabuki is rich in showmanship and involves elaborately designed costumes, outlandish wigs, extraordinary makeup and exaggerated actions performed by the actors. Highly stylized movements convey meaning to the audience; this is especially important since an old-fashioned form of Japanese is typically used, which is difficult for speakers of modern Japanese to fully understand.  Plots are based on historical events, moral conflicts, love stories, tales of tragedy of conspiracy, and other well-known stories.  Dynamic stage sets: revolving platforms and trapdoors allow for the quick changing of a scene or the appearance or disappearance of actors.  Another specialty of the kabuki stage is a footbridge that leads through the audience, allowing for a dramatic entrance or exit. Ambiance is aided with live music performed using traditional instruments. These elements combine to produce a stunning performance.  Kabuki is recognized as one of Japan's three major classical theaters along with noh and bunraku, and has been named as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage.
    kabuki-za-gallery-7.jpg
  • Kabuki Hairpiece - Kabuki is a traditional Japanese form of theater developed during the Edo Period.  Kabuki is rich in showmanship and involves elaborately designed costumes, outlandish wigs, extraordinary makeup and exaggerated actions performed by the actors. Highly stylized movements convey meaning to the audience; this is especially important since an old-fashioned form of Japanese is typically used, which is difficult for speakers of modern Japanese to fully understand.  Plots are based on historical events, moral conflicts, love stories, tales of tragedy of conspiracy, and other well-known stories.  Dynamic stage sets: revolving platforms and trapdoors allow for the quick changing of a scene or the appearance or disappearance of actors.  Another specialty of the kabuki stage is a footbridge that leads through the audience, allowing for a dramatic entrance or exit. Ambiance is aided with live music performed using traditional instruments. These elements combine to produce a stunning performance.  Kabuki is recognized as one of Japan's three major classical theaters along with noh and bunraku, and has been named as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage.
    kabuki-za-gallery-1.jpg
  • Cutout at Kabuki-za Gallery - Kabuki is a traditional Japanese form of theater developed during the Edo Period.  Kabuki is rich in showmanship and involves elaborately designed costumes, outlandish wigs, extraordinary makeup and exaggerated actions performed by the actors. Highly stylized movements convey meaning to the audience; this is especially important since an old-fashioned form of Japanese is typically used, which is difficult for speakers of modern Japanese to fully understand.  Plots are based on historical events, moral conflicts, love stories, tales of tragedy of conspiracy, and other well-known stories.  Dynamic stage sets: revolving platforms and trapdoors allow for the quick changing of a scene or the appearance or disappearance of actors.  Another specialty of the kabuki stage is a footbridge that leads through the audience, allowing for a dramatic entrance or exit. Ambiance is aided with live music performed using traditional instruments. These elements combine to produce a stunning performance.  Kabuki is recognized as one of Japan's three major classical theaters along with noh and bunraku, and has been named as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage.
    kabuki-za-gallery-2.jpg
  • Hoppy Street or Hoppy Dori is the nickname of this alley in Asakusa adjacent to Sensoji Temple area.  Most evenings dozens of these outdoor izakaya spill out into the streets, serving old fashioned hoppy beer, draft, yakitori and other Japanese pub treets.
    hoppy-street-3.jpg
  • JR Harajuku Station
    harajuku-station-02.jpg
  • JR Harajuku Station
    harajuku-station-01.jpg
  • Takeshita Street in Harajuku, is a pedestrian shopping street that caters to young Japanese,  selling mostly clothes and fashion accessories.
    takeshita-street.jpg
  • Anniversaire Cafe in Aoyama, Located on prime real estate on Omotesando Avenue, this is the place for fashionistas to see and be seen, or to show off your new threads.
    anniversaire-cafe-harajuku.jpg
  • Ameyoko or Ameyocho is a busy shopping street dominated by small market-style stalls selling a wide variety of wares especially fish. Ameyoko runs parallel to the JR railway line with its large market under the railway tracks.
    ameyoko-3.jpg
  • At a Japanese Festival or Matsuri, part of the fun is snacking on local specialties, such as yakitori, okonomiyaki, takoyaki are the most comment Japanese fast food snacks. These festivals are usually sponsored by a local shrine or temple. There is no specific matsuri days for all of Japan.  Dates vary from area to area but festival days do tend to cluster around traditional holidays such as Setsubun or Obon.
    yushima-shrine-festival-4.jpg
  • Ameyoko or Ameyocho is a busy shopping street dominated by small market-style stalls selling a wide variety of wares especially fish. Ameyoko runs parallel to the JR railway line with its large market under the railway tracks.
    ameyoko-9.jpg
  • Ameyoko or Ameyocho is a busy shopping street dominated by small market-style stalls selling a wide variety of wares especially fish. Ameyoko runs parallel to the JR railway line with its large market under the railway tracks.
    ameyoko-8.jpg
  • Ameyoko or Ameyocho is a busy shopping street dominated by small market-style stalls selling a wide variety of wares especially fish. Ameyoko runs parallel to the JR railway line with its large market under the railway tracks.
    ameyoko-5.jpg
  • Ameyoko or Ameyocho is a busy shopping street dominated by small market-style stalls selling a wide variety of wares especially fish. Ameyoko runs parallel to the JR railway line with its large market under the railway tracks.
    ameyoko-12.jpg
  • Ameyoko or Ameyocho is a busy shopping street dominated by small market-style stalls selling a wide variety of wares especially fish. Ameyoko runs parallel to the JR railway line with its large market under the railway tracks.
    ameyoko-11.jpg
  • Ameyoko or Ameyocho is a busy shopping street dominated by small market-style stalls selling a wide variety of wares especially fish. Ameyoko runs parallel to the JR railway line with its large market under the railway tracks.
    ameyoko-6.jpg
  • A yatai is a small, mobile food stall typically selling ramen or oden. The name literally means "shop stand." The stall is set up in the early evening on sidewalks and removed late at night or in the early morning hours. Beer, sake and shochu are usually available. A salaryman might relax with colleagues over dinner and drinks at a yatai on his way home from work. Fukuoka is well known in Japan for keeping the yatai tradition alive.
    yatai-3.jpg
  • Ameyoko or Ameyocho is a busy shopping street dominated by small market-style stalls selling a wide variety of wares especially fish. Ameyoko runs parallel to the JR railway line with its large market under the railway tracks.
    ameyoko-2.jpg
  • Ameyoko or Ameyocho is a busy shopping street dominated by small market-style stalls selling a wide variety of wares especially fish. Ameyoko runs parallel to the JR railway line with its large market under the railway tracks.
    ameyoko-7.jpg
  • A yatai is a small, mobile food stall typically selling ramen or oden. The name literally means "shop stand." The stall is set up in the early evening on sidewalks and removed late at night or in the early morning hours. Beer, sake and shochu are usually available. A salaryman might relax with colleagues over dinner and drinks at a yatai on his way home from work. Fukuoka is well known in Japan for keeping the yatai tradition alive.
    yatai-4.jpg
  • At a Japanese Festival or Matsuri, part of the fun is snacking on local specialties, such as yakitori, okonomiyaki, takoyaki are the most commen Japanese fast food snacks. These festivals are usually sponsored by a local shrine or temple. There is no specific matsuri days for all of Japan.  Dates vary from area to area but festival days do tend to cluster around traditional holidays such as Setsubun or Obon.
    yushima-shrine-festival-8.jpg
  • Yushima Shrine Matsuri - Matsuri is the Japanese word for a festival which are usually sponsored by a local shrine or temple. There is no specific matsuri days for all of Japan.  Dates vary from area to area but festival days do tend to cluster around traditional holidays such as Setsubun or Obon. Almost every locale has at least one matsuri in late summer or early autumn, usually related to the rice harvest..Matsuri often feature processions which may include elaborate floats. Preparation for these processions is usually organized at the level of neighborhoods.  Prior to these, the local kami will be ritually installed in mikoshi, portable shrines, and paraded through the streets.
    yushima-shrine-festival-11.jpg
  • A yatai is a small, mobile food stall typically selling ramen or oden. The name literally means "shop stand." The stall is set up in the early evening on sidewalks and removed late at night or in the early morning hours. Beer, sake and shochu are usually available. A salaryman might relax with colleagues over dinner and drinks at a yatai on his way home from work. Fukuoka is well known in Japan for keeping the yatai tradition alive.
    yatai-2.jpg
  • A yatai is a small, mobile food stall typically selling ramen or oden. The name literally means "shop stand." The stall is set up in the early evening on sidewalks and removed late at night or in the early morning hours. Beer, sake and shochu are usually available. A salaryman might relax with colleagues over dinner and drinks at a yatai on his way home from work. Fukuoka is well known in Japan for keeping the yatai tradition alive.
    yatai-1.jpg
  • At a Japanese Festival or Matsuri, part of the fun is snacking on local specialties, such as yakitori, okonomiyaki, takoyaki are the most commen Japanese fast food snacks. These festivals are usually sponsored by a local shrine or temple. There is no specific matsuri days for all of Japan.  Dates vary from area to area but festival days do tend to cluster around traditional holidays such as Setsubun or Obon.
    yushima-shrine-festival-5.jpg
  • Yushima Shrine Matsuri - Matsuri is the Japanese word for a festival which are usually sponsored by a local shrine or temple. There is no specific matsuri days for all of Japan.  Dates vary from area to area but festival days do tend to cluster around traditional holidays such as Setsubun or Obon. Almost every locale has at least one matsuri in late summer or early autumn, usually related to the rice harvest..Matsuri often feature processions which may include elaborate floats. Preparation for these processions is usually organized at the level of neighborhoods.  Prior to these, the local kami will be ritually installed in mikoshi, portable shrines, and paraded through the streets.
    yushima-shrine-festival-14.jpg
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