Sea Women
Women diving into the ocean to pick abalones are known in Japan as “amas” or “sea women”. Ladies diving into waters of up to 20 meters deep have become one of Japan’s trademarks, despite the fact that many of the ‘amas’ have lost their lives throughout the years due to the risky diving that is made just by wearing a simple mask. Some of them are in their 70s or 80s, but continue to dive. A kilogram of wild abalone sells for around Y8,000, although most consumed in Japan are now farmed.
Heijou Palace
Nara city was one of the first permanent capitals of Yamato (the old name for Japan) and, in 2010, Nara celebrated its 1300th anniversary by rebuilding the long-lost Heijo Palace. As you can see in the architecture, the people of the Nara Period were heavily influenced by Chinese culture of the time. The palace is free to enter and only a short walk from Yamatosaidaiji Station in Nara City.
Rainbow Bridge, Odaiba
Odaiba, a manmade island atop Tokyo Bay, is famous for its sightseeing attractions, amusement parks, and entertainment venues. The Rainbow Bridge, gateway to Odaiba, is an awesome date spot all its own! And, it’s absolutely free! The Rainbow Bridge is a double-decked suspension bridge spanning the northern corner of Tokyo Bay, connecting Tokyo to the artificial island of Odaiba. The top deck carries expressway vehicles, while the lower level is reserved for local transportation and the monorail. What many people don’t realize is that the lower level also supports a pair of walkways for pedestrians crossing the bridge and that the atmosphere is perfect for spending some time with your special someone.
Kinkaku-ji Temple Tea House – Sekka Tei
Sekka-tei is a small tea house built in honor of a visit by Emperor Go-Mizuno-o in the 17th century. The simplicity of the tea house is meant to focus the attention of the guest on the tea ceremony. Sekka-tei was burned down in a fire in 1874 and was reconstructed in 1884. The stone lantern and basin, along with a stool in front of the tea house all come from the Muromachi Period Hana-no-Gosho (Flower Palace). Inside, the teahouse is quite modest but contains a well noted, crooked pillar supporting the alcove. The pillar is made from rare Nandin wood, a very slow growing tree, and to reach this size is very rare indeed.
Tamozawa Imperial Villa
Stroll through 1,000 years of history in one Nikko garden. The main structure of the Tamozawa Imperial Villa was relocated to Nikko from Akasaka in Tokyo in 1899, and its garden boasts design touches from as early as the eighth century. Its inner garden is dominated by luxurious swaths of moss. Despite the accomplished garden, its high level of traditional craftsmanship and designation as an Important National Cultural Property.