Blog Rerk

Northern Vietnam (2008) - Son Tay and Vicinity (Part IV) - Ba Vi National Park

2015-12-16T20:21:00.002-08:00

The highlight of the visit to Son Tay was the trip to Ba Vi (Three Peaks) National Park comprising King Peak (highest at 1,296m), Tan Vien Peak (1,227m) and Ngoc Hoa Peak (1,131m). On King Peak, there is a temple dedicated to President Ho Chi Minh. To escape the unyielding of the summer, the French colonialists had built some resorts in the area and some vestiges are still visible now.

To see the temples on the mountains, visitors need to negotiate about 1,000 steps up to the temple. Although tiring, the views are breathtaking.

Souvenir shop at the bottom of the climb to the Ho Chi Minh Temple

Thuong Temple (Đền Thượng) also known as Đức Thánh Tản Viên Sơn to worship the Mountain God. First of two temples on the mountain.

Lookout point on the way to the top

Almost at the top, route to the Ho Chi Minh Temple

While at Ba Vi, we also made a side trip to see a waterfall within the national park.

Northern Vietnam (2008) - Son Tay and Vicinity (Part III) - Tan Da Spa Resort

2015-12-14T22:14:00.000-08:00

We stay overnight at the Tan Da Spa Resort outside of the Ba Vi National Park. The accommodations are tastefully decorated in old Vietnamese style.

Apart from recreational activities, the resort also offered spa treatment in huts located beside a small reservoir.

The resort also offers a wide variety of Vietnamese dishes.

Northern Vietnam (2008) - Son Tay and Vicinity (Part II) - Duong Lam Ancient Village

2015-12-14T20:10:00.000-08:00

Another popular tourist destination is Duong Lam ancient village or commune which consists of a cluster of smaller hamlets. The key focus of Duong Lam is the hamlet of Mong Phu. Visitors to the hamlet would be welcomed by the village gate. Besides the many old houses, visitors can also see the Mong Phu Communal House and also Chua Mia (Mia Pagoda).

Duong Lam is also famous for its ties to key rulers and political movers of Vietnam’s feudal times. More photographs of Duong Lam Ancient Village [external link - haepotos]. Satellite photo of Duong Lam.

Mong Phu village gate

Mong Phu communal hall (in Vietnamese, known Dinh Mong Phu)

Unidentified prayer hall

Chua Mia is known for its large collection of Buddha statues, 287 in all - six bronze, 107 wooden and 174 earthenware. Photographs of Chua Mia (Mia Pagoda) in Duong Lam [external link].

Northern Vietnam (2008) - Son Tay and Vicinity

2015-12-13T20:51:00.002-08:00

Son Tay, located about 40km west of Ha Noi, has a significant number of military training facilitates but is also known as a convenient nearby getaway location. It has a rich historical heritage and visitors can choose from a selection of options: visit a traditional Vietnamese village, see the remnants of a citadel, trek up a hill resort hailing from the French colonial period or indulge at a spa cum resort.

The first place of interest is the Son Tay ancient citadel which was built in 1822. The local authority has taken efforts to upkeep the historical site but there are signs of its ancient history with at least 100 years old trees surrounding the walls and gates. Another write-up on the citadel by Viet Nam News. Satellite picture of Son Tay ancient citadel.

Son Tay citadel flag tower

Kinh Thien Palace

Altar inside Kinh Thien Palace

Old photographs of the citadel

Northern Vietnam (2008) - Chua Huong AKA Perfume Pagoda

2015-12-10T20:00:00.001-08:00

Asked any Hanoian which temple attraction they would recommend to a foreigner, the answer is likely to be Chua Huong. Just why? Perhaps the renowned religious complex is located nearest to Hanoi, sited in My Duc district in the former Ha Tay province, about 70km south from the capital. Chua Huong, or Perfume Pagoda in English, can be assessed through My Duc town by small boats. If travelling by road, there is an alternative land route to the temple. Generally, all tour would use the river route. The riverside temple complex in the Huong Tich mountains is located upstream on the Yen stream (Suoi Yen). This is a tributary feeding into the Red River (Song Hong).

Metal sheet boat at My Duc

First Stop - Den Trinh (Trinh Temple)

Sights along the stream on the way to the main complex of Chua Huong.

Chua Huong is a popular pilgrimage destinations for Vietnamese during the Lunar New Year period and is usually flooded with many visitors. This period generally lasts from the middle of January to the middle of March. The temple complex is consisted of a series of main structures namely Den Trinh, Thien Tru Pagado, Giai Oan Pagoda and finally the centre of the complex, Chua Trong (literally Inner Temple) at the summit. Chua Trong is actually located in a limestone grotto, Huong Tich Cave. The climb up is about 4km but it could also be assessed by cable car.

First stop at base of complex - Thien Tru Pagoda

Hopping on to the cable car for the main pagoda of Chua Huong at the summit

Staircase down to the grotto where Chua Trong is sited

From the summit, we decided to walk down to the pier for our journey back to My Duc. Along the way, we came across other structures scattered along the mountain side.

Northern Vietnam (2008) - Stopover at Hoa Binh Hydropower Plant on the way back from Mai Chau

2015-12-09T21:19:00.001-08:00

On way back to Hanoi from Mai Chau, we decided on a sidetrip to see the Hoa Binh Hydropower Plant. It was then the largest hydropower plant in Vietnam, reportedly providing about 30 percent of Vietnam’s power output. The plant was built in the 1970s and was financed by the then Soviet Union. Construction of the dam over Song Da (or Da River) for the powerplant took 15 years.

Another interesting sight at the dam is an enormous statue of Ho Chi Minh on a hill next to the giant complex.

Sights of Northern Vietnam (2008) - Mai Chau (Part II)

2015-12-07T20:40:00.002-08:00

Besides being known for its beautiful mountainous scenery, visitors to Mai Chau can also immerse in the local lifestyle, culture and tradition.

When we visited, we were “treated” to lunch consisting of Thai dishes and locally brewed rice wine called ruou can (pronounced in Vietnamese as “zee-wood ke-urn”. As with tribal communal living, ruou can is drank from a single container using long elongated straws. We were also entertained by the Thai cultural performance which included the popular Xoe dance.

Drinking Ruou Can (rice wine) before our departure

Some sceneries of Mai Chau and other sights on our return to Ha Noi after a great day of discoveries.

While we rented a 12-seater for our day trip to Mai Chau, the more adventurous - not recommended if you do not speak Vietnamese - can travel by local transportation. There are direct buses from Hanoi (Ha Dong and My Dinh bus stations) to Mai Chau. Given the road and traffic conditions in Vietnam, the journey to Mai Chau takes about three hours.

Sights of Northern Vietnam (2008) - Mai Chau

2015-12-07T18:33:00.000-08:00

Had the opportunity to stay in Vietnam, Hanoi to be précise, for nine months from 2007 to 2008. During that time, I was fortunate enough to have a colleague to show me and my fellow friends some of the sightseeing locales near the capital. The first of such visits was to Mai Chau district in Hoa Binh province. The district is about 135 km to the west of Ha Noi and about 65 km from Hoa Binh city.

Sights along the way to Mai Chau:

Are we there yet?

New Year 2008

Mai Chau is nestled in a valley in the mountainous region of north western Vietnam where many ethnic groups inhabit. The main group in Mau Chau consists of the ‘Thai people’ - White and Black Thais and they speak a dialect similar to the Thai language. The Thai ethnic group in Mai Chau live in stilt houses made out of bamboo and timber, which serve as a "refuge" from flooding and also served as a shelter for their live stocks. Although our group was on a day trip to Mai Chau, the more adventurous could opt for a homestay at the village, sans amenities like modern toilets. Conditions, however, appeared to have improved as more companies seized the opportunity to provide better accommodations to cater to the growing tourist interests in Mai Chau.

First sighting of Mai Chau from lookout point in the egress to the town

Group photo at lookout point

While waiting for lunch, we explored the village. Apart from cultivating rice, the villagers also supplement their earning by selling handicrafts.

Apart from the wooden stilt houses, the surrounding scenery gives a sense of peace and tranquillity.

After exploring around the village, we returned to our host, who also offers homestay services.

Return to Hanoi (October 2015)

2015-11-29T19:40:00.002-08:00

Was back again in Ha Noi in October 2015. Stayed at Melia Ha Noi and was fortunate to be accommodated at the 22nd Floor where the Presidential Suite was located. The room I got was spacious and interesting decorated with a see-through toilet.

As my colleagues were new to the area, I proposed that we had dinner at Quan An Ngon which was located nearby - about three junctions away. Going there would allow them to try a large selection of famous street food of Viet Nam since we only have two nights in town.

Nem Ran - Vietnamese Fried Spring Roll

Close-up of the Bun Cha dish

Banh Xeo - Vietnamese Crepe Omelette

Beef Rice dish

My favourite - Bun Cha

Near the Old Quarters, we went a quaint Vietnamese Cafe overlooking Hoan Kiem. Part of a living quarter, the interior of the Cafe was delicately decorated.

Cafe Trung (literally Egg Coffee) - described by some as liquid Tiramisu

Reference:

Was doing some research and found this relatively affordable and good accommodation in the Old Quarters called Hanoi Inn Guesthouse.

Japan January 2015 - Final Day

2015-11-25T16:12:00.002-08:00

Last day in Japan, we departed Tokyo via Shinagawa by Shinkansen for Kansai International Airport in the morning.

Along the way, we came across a location where there was a great and close-up view of Mount Fuji.

Shinkansen passing by Fuji City with Mount Fuji in the background

As we would be going directly to KIX, we decided to try the bento sets available at Shinagawa Station.

We also did last minute shopping at KIX and got loads of Japanese confectionaries.

Here are some interesting sewer covers which I sighted in Osaka and Tokyo.

Japan January 2015 (Penultimate Day 10) - Tokyo/Yokohama Sights

2015-11-24T17:41:00.003-08:00

Before we depart the next day, we decided to go around Tokyo and Yokohama to enjoy some of the sights. The first order of business was to see the Yasukuni Shrine which is located close to the Imperial Palace ground.

Along the way, we decided to try the numerous canned coffee which you can find at the many 24-hour convenience stores in Japan.

Even though it was the New Year period, there were not many crowds at the Yasukuni Shrine.

After visiting the shrine, we walked across to the Imperial Palace ground. Unfortunately as it was winter, there were not many flowers on display.

After visiting the Imperial Palace, we proceeded to visit Chinatown in Yokohama via the JR Tokaido Line and switched to the Negishi Line heading for Ishikawacho Station.

From Chinatown, we decided to visit the Cup Noodles Museum located in Yokohama's exclusive Minato Mirai District.

Walking from Minato Mirai Station towards the waterfront for the CupNoodles Museum

Destination Cup Noodles Museum.

Besides viewing the Cup Noodles-related exhibits, visitors can also participate in making their own Cup Noodle. This is a popular activity and be prepared to queue. The process is to buy a cup at Yen 300, personalise your own cup, proceed to design (the factory assistant will help to add the ingredients) your own CupNoodle and finally to vacuum seal your CupNoodle.

Chicken Ramen Factory where you make ramen from scratch. This is co-located with My CupNoodles Factory.

On the way back from Yokohama, we stopover at Shinjuku to take in the sights and have our dinner.

One of the many Japanese chain restaurant which serves cheap meals

Interesting spice shaker

Tokyo January 2015 (Day 9) - Hakone - Part II

2015-11-24T05:13:00.001-08:00

Along the way to Gora Station on the Hakone Tozan Train (2nd Section), we stopped over at the Chokoku-no-Mori Station to visit the Hakone Open-Air Museum. The station is only one stop from Gora Station.

Short walk round the corner from the Chokoku-no-Mori Station to the museum

Entry tickets - students, including tertiary, have discounts

Observation tower with stained glass interior

View from the top of observation tower

Foot bath, welcomed relief from the walking

Mount Fuji-styled gift packs

Mount Fuji-styled souvenirs from the museum shop

Exterior of an eatery outside the museum

Waiting for the train to Gora Station

From Gora Station, we switched to the Hakone Tozan Cable Car for Sounzan Station where we took the Hakone Ropeway for Lake Ashi.

From Sounzan, we took the Hakone Ropeway for Owakudani (Great Boiling Valley) Station to view the sulphur vents. Another advantage for stopping at Owakudani is the opportunity for great photograph shot of Mount Fuji. At Owakudani, we did not missed the chance to try the renowned Owakudani Black Egg.

Owakudani Black Egg

From Owakudani, we proceeded to the final station at Ashi Lake for the Hakone Sightseeing Cruise.

We alighted at Hakone Machi-ko

Mount Fuji just peeking out in the background

Boarding the Hakone Tozan bus service to one of the train station for our way back to Hakone-Yumoto

Tokyo January 2015 (Day 9) - Day Trip to Hakone

2015-11-23T06:24:00.002-08:00

If you want to enjoy a close encounter with the majestic Mt Fuji and at the same time explore other sights of Japan in a one-day trip out of Tokyo, you might want to consider a visit to the Fuji Hakone Izu National Park. The gateway to Hakone is through Odawara if you are travelling on Japan Railway. An alternative is by Odakyu Railway which runs from Tokyo's Shinjuku Station.

Pictures on our way to Odawara Station.

Japanese packaging concept - Lemon biscuits packed in milk carton

For more details on Hakone, a useful website is Hakone Navi.

From Odawara, you can purchase the Odakyu Hakone Freepass which includes transportation from Odawara to Hakone-Yumoto Station by Hakone Tozan Train (1st Section) and from there, switch to the Hakone Tozan Train (2nd Section) to Gora. At Gora, you would have to take the Hakone Tozan Cable Car and switch to the Hakone Ropeway which would bring you all the way to Lake Ashi for the Hakone Sightseeing cruise. At Yen 4,000, I would consider it a good deal.

Hakone Tozan Train (1st Section) from Odawara to Hakone-Yumoto

Hakone Freepass with travel guides and brochures.

Switching to the Hakone Tozan Train (2nd Section) at Hakone-Yumoto Station. Video of the Hakone Tozan Line.

Odakyu Romance Car which runs from Tokyo

Hakone Tozan Train 3000 Series Rolling Stock

Sights from Hakone-Yumoto to Gora.

A visit to Hakone offers many opportunities to take snap shots of Mt Fuji. See Hakone Navi website on the many views of Fuji. Personally, I think shots from Owakudani and Moto-Hakone are the best.

Tokyo January 2015 (Day 8) - Nikko - Part II

2015-11-22T21:20:00.002-08:00

Before we departed Nikko, we made a stop at the Shinkyo (Sacred Bridge) which is part of the Futarasan Shrine. To get to the bridge, take the World Heritage bus and alight after passing the main concrete bridge across the Daiya river.

Restaurant cum souvenir shop opposite Shinkyo

Restaurant cum souvenir shop next to Shinkyo

Random shots of Nikko - Tobu Nikko and Nikko Station

Tobu Nikko Station

Entrance to JR Nikko Station

On the way back, we stopped at Utsunomiya to try the gyoza which the city is well known for. It was reported that they have the most variety of gyoza. The original recipe was reported brought by Japanese troops from China.

Promotion poster on the left lists the variety of gyoza in Utsunomiya

Tokyo January 2015 (Day 8) - Nikko

2015-11-21T21:53:00.001-08:00

One of the recommended day trip out of Tokyo is a visit to the historic town of Nikko, the gateway to the Nikko National Park. The quickest way to the town is to take the Shinkansen to Utsunomiya and switched to the JR Nikko Line. When we arrived at Nikko Station, we had to walk about 200m to the Tobu Nikko Station to buy our one-day pass.

Walking towards Tobu Nikko Station with the snow-capped mountain in the background

The bus stop servicing the various Nikko attractions is located in front of the Tobu Nikko Station.

Unfortunately, we missed the first stop at the Toshogu Shrine which is a lavish mausoleum of Tokugawa Ieyasu. We alighted instead at the Futarasan Shrine.

Fortunately, stopping over at Futarasan Shrine turned into a blessing as there was a link from the shrine to Toshugo Shrine. If we had stopped at Toshogu Shrine bus stop, we would have to climb a steep flight of steps. Going through the link was a much better option.

Entrance of the link way from Futarasan Shrine to Toshogu Shrine

Looking down the flight of steps leading to the Torii to Toshogu Shrine

Another possible link way from Toshogu Shrine to Futurasan Shrine after the main torii

The Toshogu Shrine complex has an impressive array of buildings, some of which are pretty well known.

Unfortunately for us, the main entrance to the Toshogu Shrine or Yomeimon, with its elaborate craving was under renovation.

Next, we proceeded to see Tokugawa Ieyasu mausoleum which was situated at the summit. The entrance to the mausoleum is through the Sakashitamon which bears the famous carving of the Nemurineko (sleeping cat). It was peaceful climb through a long flight stairs to the mausoleum.

More random shots of the impressive Toshogu Shrine.

Tokyo January 2015 (Day 7) - Kamakura

2015-11-18T23:10:00.004-08:00

The second day of our stay in Tokyo saw us making a visit to the former capital of Kamakura. As we were travelling on JR, there was a need to make three transfer before we got to our destination. A useful apps for foreign travellers in Japan is Hyperdia.

Like all former capitals, Kamakura has its fair share of shrines and temples, and one of the most widely known is the Great bronze Buddha statue. As we departed Tokyo quite earlier, the first thing we did was to have a hot breakfast at the station. We were fortunate to find a small, quiant restaurant just before the exit but with a ticketing system so we could match the photograph of the dishes with the Japanese script.

Next, we proceeded to purchase the one-day Yoritomo Kamakura Pass which allowed us to take the Enoden Line as well as the bus service.

Kamakura Pass

Our first stop for the day was to see the Great Buddha which could be accessed easily through the Enoden Line. We alighted at Hase Station and walked along the narrow road up to the temple, which is located about 500m from the station.

Starting point of the Enoden Line at Kamakura Station

On our way back to Hase Station, we made a stopover at Hase-dera (Hase Temple). In the same street as the temple was a branch of the Music Box Company Pte Ltd cum museum.

We also came across a cute cafe converting from a small cargo van near Hase Station.

Back at Kamakura Station, we headed for Hokokuji Temple, which is known for its bamboo garden. Hokokuji Temple is a short walk from Jomyoji bus stop (浄明寺, 10 minutes, 200 yen one way from Kamakura Station by bus number 鎌23, 鎌24 or 鎌36). Alternatively, it can be reached on foot in about 30-40 minutes from Kamakura Station (from www.japan-guide.com). The temple is located about 100m up a slight slope on the opposite side of the bus stop.

Back in Tokyo, we went to the Meiji Shrine and also the Asakusa Kannon Temple (Sensoji).

Tokyo Skytree

Japan January 2015 - Transfer to Tokyo

2015-11-18T21:17:00.002-08:00

On 6 January 2015, we departed for Tokyo to continue on our second-half of our stay in Japan.

The advert on Tokyo Station Centennial

Instead of using the usual option of staying at a hotel, we decided to use Airbnb for our accommodation this time round. In Tokyo, we stayed with a couple in an area near the Ikebukuro Station. From Ikebukuro Station, it is near the fourth station on the Tobu Tojo Line. The house has a traditional tatami-style room.

Naka-Itabashi Station

Bus stop opposite the Airbnb place where we staying

One of the many entrances to Ikebukuro Station

In the afternoon, our plan to visit the Meiji Shrine was postponed during to rain. Instead, we decided to look for food. Where else? At one of the many underground food mart synonymous with Japan shopping centres.

Harajuku Station - Meiji Shrine is located behind the station

The story does not end here. On the way back from Kamakura the next day, we managed to take a stroll in the grounds of Meiji Shrine finally. Even though it was near closing time, people were still streaming in.

Osaka January 2015 - Night Sights and Others

2015-11-17T08:21:00.002-08:00

As we were staying in the Tennoji area, one night sight which should not be missed is Shinsekai and its iconic Tsutenkaku Tower. The area is also famous fugu restaurants with their elaborate exterior decor.

Tsutenkaku Tower from Shin-Imamiya Station

Cute Takoyaki Stand

Care for a Tsutenkaku souvenir

Another night sight which should be missed is the Dotombori area with its many neon ad boards and restaurants with equally elaborate displays.

Last but not least, we could not miss out on a visit to the Osaka Castle.

Osaka January 2015 (Day 5) - Hiroshima/Miyajima - Part II

2015-11-16T22:03:00.002-08:00

On the way back from Miyajima-guchi on JR Sanyo Line, we decided to alight at Yokogawa Station and take the tram for Hiroshima Atomic Dome. Yokogawa Station is a suitable transfer point as the tram terminal is situated directly in front of the station exit. We took Tram Service 7 operated by the Hiroshima Electric Railway for Genbaku Dome-mae Station.

From Genbaku Station, it was a short across the road to the Atomic Dome. Unfortunately, the dome was undergoing renovation when we visited earlier this year. The dome is located in the Peace Memorial Park (平和記念公園, Heiwa Kinen Kōen).

Looking towards Peace Park Museum

Children's Peace Memorial

Here are some random pictures of Hiroshima before we departed for Osaka via Shinkansen.

Osaka January 2015 (Day 5) - Hiroshima/Miyajima

2015-11-16T15:32:00.002-08:00

On the penultimate day before we head for Tokyo, we decided to make a trip to Hiroshima and the beautiful island of Miyajima, with its renowned Red Torii. This journey to Hiroshima and Miyajima would be the furthest south we would travel during our visit to Japan from our jumping off point in Osaka. From Shin-Osaka, we took the Shinkansen to Hiroshima. Because of the shorter daylight during winter, we decided to head for Miyajima which was our key sightseeing destination. Fortunately for us, the weather that morning was perfect except for the chilly breeze.

From Hiroshima, we switched to the JR Sanyo Line for Miyajima-guchi. From Miyajima-guchi Station, it was a short walk across to the ferry terminal. As we were on JR Pass, the ferry charges to Miyajima were covered.

Miyajima-guchi Station

Looking out from Miyajima-guchi Station across to the ferry terminal

When we arrived at the ferry terminal, there was already a queue forming.

The crossing was pleasant and we would see the commercial oyster cultivation in the waters near Miyajima, which the island is famous for.

Oyster breeding beds

The Red Torii at high tide

After a 10 minutes trip, we arrived at Miyajima. We quickly made our way for the Itsukushima Shrine. Along the way, we were greeted by the many deers and many food outlets lining the path to the shrine.

First stop - fresh oyster and the owner was kind enough to give us an extra

Cylindrical fish cake

Slowly but surely, the Red Torii came into sight. As we were there in the morning, the crowds have not really built up yet. Since we intend to return to Hiroshima in the afternoon, there was no opportunity to see the Torii closed up.

Of all the sites on the island, one that is not to be missed is definitely the Itsukushima Shrine, which was registered as a World Heritage site in 1996.

Following Itsukushima Shrine, we decided to make a loop back to the ferry terminal. At the exit of the shrine was a small walking street filled with souvenir shops selling wood curving as well as the wooden rice scoop which the island is famous for. After that, we stopped at the Five Storey Pagoda (Gojyuunodou in Japanese) just located behind Itsukushima. At the top of the hill, we came across another shrine, the Toyokuni (Senjokaku).

Shopping street outside exit of Itsukushima Shrine

More Japanese snacks on sale

Five Storey Pagoda

Toyokuni Shrine

From the top of the hill, you can see the surrounding residential buildings nestled on the slopes. On the way back to the ferry terminal, we walked through the shopping street which is lined with many eateries.

Grilled Oysters

Preserved Oysters

Giant Rice Scoop

Yum - Oyster Croquette

Before we headed back to Hiroshima, we decided to try one more recommended item, the grilled eel bento. This can be brought at a shop just outside the ferry terminal. On the whole, Miyajima is one tourist stop you should not miss if you are making a visit to Hiroshima. If you want to see all the sights, a one-day trip would be a better option.

Osaka January 2015 (Day 4) - SCMAGLEV and Railway Park in Nagoya

2015-11-14T00:00:00.000-08:00

Japan is synonymous with effective train service which is well-known for it punctuality. So for train spotting, we made a trip to Nagoya to visit the SCMaglev and Railway Park which is run by the Central Japan Railway Company (JR Central). The journey is also made possible by the 14-day JR Rail Pass, which made travelling on long distance much affordable on the slick Shinkansen.

The JR Pass is not sold in Japan and must be purchased ahead of the trip. When we arrived in Osaka, we changed the vouchers at the train terminal across from the Airport Terminal Building. In addition to cheaper Shinkansen (except the Nozomi and the Mizuho Shinkansen) rides, the Pass is valid on all the JR lines all over Japan.

From Shin Osaka, we took the Shinkansen for Nagoya and switched to the Aonami Line for Kinjofuto Station (about 25mins ride). The museum is closed on Tuesday and the New Year period. Admission fee is Yen 1000 for Adult (optional at additional charges - train simulator audio).

Exit from Kinjufuto Station

SCMAGLEV and Railway Park from across Kinjofuto Station

Steam Rolling Stock

Shinkansen and MAGLEV Rolling Stocks

There is a section dedicated to Shinkansen technologies and their operations.

Shinkansen Ticketing System where you can customised the ticket

Shinkansen rolling stocks on display

Other JR rolling stocks are also on display.

If you cannot get enough, you can indulge in souvenir galour at the Museum Shop.

Osaka January 2015 (Day 3) - Toei Uzumasa Eigamura (東映太秦映画村)

2015-11-01T00:01:00.002-07:00

For a change, I decided to bring the family to the Toei Kyoto Studio Park theme park in Kyoto. Having visit the studio during our honeymoon about 25 years ago, we wanted to see the studio again with our children. From Osaka, we took a train to Kyoto Station and switched to the JR Sagano line for Uzumasa Station. Kyoto was covered in a heap of snow following an overnight downfall.

Uzumasa Station is located five stops from Kyoto Station. From the station, it was about 10 minutes walk to the studio along the back street of the district. See map from the Toei Studion website.

Looking across to the main station building at Uzumasa

Poster of Toei Studio at the station

One of the train crossing on the way to the studio

The studio is a film set and theme park, featuring a small town from the Edo Period. The park includes entire streets depicting town scenes, including a replica of the old Nihonbashi Bridge with park attendants dressed in historic costumes. In addition, the studio also features anime and Power Ranger-type characters as part of its attractions. Eigamura is open daily from 9am to 5pm (9.30am to 4pm from Dec to Feb). Admission is ¥2,200.

Side entrance to the studio

Queue line to the ticketing counter

What is a Japanese historical period theme park without the Ninja

From the side entrance, we had to make our way to the main square of the theme park. The pathway were lined with props from the Edo period. This part of the park is the Toei Studios Kyoto, a actual filming setup.

Some Edo era sights at the park. The park map is available at the official website.

Of course, you cannot miss the Japanese sword fighting show.

Group photograph before the show down

Moving to the sword fighting scene site

If you have younger children, there is a section dedicated to anime, the Toei Anime Museum.

If this is not enough, you can also see the Superhero display at Padios which is located next to the restaurant and theme park shopping complex.

Osaka January 2015 (Day 2) - Kyoto

2015-10-24T23:03:00.001-07:00

From Fushimi Inari Shrine, we continued to Kyoto to visit the Kiyozumi-Dera. From Kyoto Station, we purchased the bus ticket for Bus Service 100 at the Service Centre at the Bus terminal outside the station. We got off at Gojo-zaka. Unfortunately as it was Winter, daylight was shorten and by the time we walked up the hill to the destination, it was dark already. Here are some of the night photographs taken with a "idiot-proof" camera.

Hopefully, will find another opportunity to visit the temple at another occasion.

Entrance to the supposedly 10-minute walk up the hill to Kiyomizu-Dera

We took a different route and the side lanes hold interesting tea and other shops

Read that you do not need to purchase a ticket to see the vicinity of the temple if you do not intent to see the main shrine.

Before depart from Kyoto back to Osaka, we had dinner at the many restaurants in shopping mall at the Kyoto Station.

Shot of the Osaka Tower

Osaka January 2015 (Day 2) - Fushimi Inari Taisha (Fushimi Inari Shrine)

2015-10-03T21:48:00.000-07:00

After lunch in Nara, we made our way to Kyoto for the second half of our itinerary. But firstly, we decided to make a stopover at Inari to see the famous torii "gate" temple, otherwise known as the Fushimi Inari Taisha (Fushimi Inari Shrine).

Stopover at one of the small station to switch to a rapid train for Inari Station

The entrance to the shrine is just across Inari Station. As it was the New Year, the station and its surroundings were packed with a large crowd. As always, the festival atmosphere was enhanced by the many food stalls lining the footpath to the shrine.

Looking out from exit of Inari Station - Huge Crowd

Crowd control outside the shrine

Looking across from Inari Station to the entrance of the shrine

Straight ahead the main entrance to the shrine

As this a short stopover, we avoided the main crowd making merits at the main shrine and quickly made our way to the torii which was short walk / climb up.

The main shrine after the main entrance

The famous torii in sight

Close up of the torii

On our way out of the shrine, we decided to use the side exit to avoid the large crowd and used the opportunity to explore the other sights outside the shrine.

Small alley towards Inari Station

Shopping for tidbits to munch

Osaka January 2015 (Day 2) - Nara Trip

2015-09-04T22:56:00.000-07:00

On the second day in Osaka, we chose to make a side trip to Nara to the east. Nara is the historical capital of Imperial Japan, established in A.D 710 and lasted about 70 years. Going to Nara from Shin-Imamiya Station was easy as there was a direct train to the destination - the Yamatoji Rapid.

Walking towards Shin-Imamiya Station

Along the way, we passed rural landscape covered by a blanket of snow. About an hour later, we reached Nara Station. Next, we proceeded to buy the one-day Pass (500 yen) which would us to visit the main historical sites around the area.

Winter rural scape

Nara Station - Mascot???

Exit from the platform

Booth for the purchase of one-day Pass

Outside the station, we hopped on the bus going to Nara Park and the first site, the imposing Todaiji Temple. The temple is reportedly the world's largest wooden temple built without nails. More details at Nara - Facts and Details. The place was crowded as it was the beginning of the years with many Japanese making merits.

Old Nara Station

Tourist bus going to Nara Park

Bus stop opposite Nara Park

Crossing over to Nara Park

Way to Todaiji

Ground of Todaiji covered by snow, with the Daibutsuden in the background

The imposing Daibutsuden

The Great Buddha in the background, world's largest bronze statue

On our way out of Todaiji, there were many stalls selling foods. We could not resist the temptation to try them.

Fried noodles with Japanese sauce

"Interesting" Food

Candied Pineapple slices

We next proceeded to Kasuga Taisha (Kasuga Grand Shrine). The ground was wet and muddy following the snow storm the previous night. Reputedly Nara's most celebrated shrine, the ground was really packed with Japanese. The temple is flanked by the Kasugayama Forest.

Entrance to the Kasuga Taisha

Familar sight - Sake Cask

Packed with visitors - crowd control performed by temple staff

VIPs making merits

Sales of ornamental items at the shrine

The shrine's renowned bronze lanterns

Our next stop was the five-storey Kofukuji pagoda in the city. We took the return bus from within Nara Park and alighted the pagoda.

Bus stop outside Kasuga shrine's ground

Cute kid feeding one of the many famous Nara deers

Kofukuji entrance

Group shot of the pagoda

From Kofukuji, we decided to explore the city on our way back to Nara Station

One of Japan's many shopping street

Shop selling Japanese pickled products

Outdoor promenade leading to Nara Station

Crowd outsite noodle shop

Dropped by Nara Visitor Centre

Looking across from promenade to Nara Station