Okayama Castle
Okayama Castle is one of a six-storey tall, black in exterior and is popularly know as the ‘crow castle’. There is a kimono section on the 2nd floor where you can try dress up a kimono like a princess or a lord for free. And on the 1st floor of the castle you can make a Bizenyaki, a traditional Japanese ceramic ware with some fees apply.
Takoyaki in Osaka
There are many “takoyaki” store in Osaka. This popular Japanese octopus-ball is made of flour-based batter with chunks of octopus, scallions, tempura scraps (tenkasu) and pickled ginger, then poured into special takoyaki pan and fried until golden brown, and lastly smeared with sweet brown sauce, mayonnaise, and dried bonito flakes (katsuobushi) on top. Takoyaki has been famous in Osaka and the surrounding Kansai area since the early 1930’s.
Osaka Castle in Autumn
Autumn is another colorful time of year and maple trees in Osaka Castle Park take on vivid shades of orange and red. If you are in Kansai area this week do drop by the famous spot.
JR Harajuku Station.
Harajuku Station is in the center of Japan’s most extreme teenage cultures and fashion styles.The station consists of a single island platform. A temporary platform is located on the west side of the station usable by trains travelling towards Shinjuku which is used when major events occur in the area, especially around New Year when many people visit Meiji Shrine. The main entrance is at the southern end of the station. A smaller entrance in the centre of the platform is convenient for Takeshita-dori, another famous area in Harajuku.
Eikan-dō, Zenrin-ji Kyoto
Zenrin-ji temple in Kyoto has more than 1,100 years of history and well-known for the “Eikando in Maple Leaves”, because of its beautiful garden filled with many maple trees. In late November, many people visit the temple to worship the Amida and enjoy the scenery. The temple will be open for night visit from November 8 (Sat) ~ December 4(Thu) 5:30 PM ~ 9:00 PM.
