#hatonomori

For those who have never traveled to Asia, I highly recommend Japan as your first expedition. The warmth of the people is unparalleled and you will feel a sense of welcoming as soon as you arrive. ANA has made it easier than ever to travel to Tokyo, with daily non-stop flights from John F. Kennedy airport. 

On my trip with TOHOKUxTOKYO, I explored further than the popular Japanese culture surrounding kawaii and anime. Tokyo has countless tourist destinations: cafes in Akihabara, shopping in Harajuku, and nightlife in Shinjuku. Rather than talking about these well-known locations, I want to showcase other experiences. The other part of my trip is Yamagata, a stark contrast to Tokyo. The prefecture proudly displays its heart with its abundance of region-specific activities rooted in culture and history.

Tokyo

Hatonomori Hachiman Shrine is just quick train ride from Shinjuku Station. One of the words that form "Hatonomori" means "pigeon". The significance of the pigeon is reflected in the shrine's fortunes. For only 100 yen, visitors can choose their own fortune from a box. All of the fortunes at Hatonomori are crafted in pigeons. If you do not like your fortune, simply fold it back into its original shape and deposit it into the box.

Kando Shrine is a notable location for both tourists and locals. The vermillon tones contrasted with aqua hues is characteristic of Kanda Myojin Shrine. The shrine’s close proximity to Akihabara makes it a great stop for tourists; the shrine’s deities are appealing to locals to often come to pray for wealth and prosperity. The shrine is also said to bring luck in finding a spouse. Another distinguished guest of honor is the pet pony, who is believed to be the pet of one of the deities

Kabukicho and Golden Gai are two of the most popular areas to experience entertainment. The former also known as “Sleepless Town” is a red-light district that hosts many host and hostess clubs, nightclubs, shops and restaurants. Kabukicho’s location near Shinjuku Station allows for easy access. Golden Gai is comprised of small alleyways, each with small eateries and shanty-style bars. Each establishment has very limited seating, which allows for intimacy when dining and drinking.

Jinbocho Used Book Town is an entire street dedicated to print media. The organized yet cluttered bookstore is reminiscent of my childhood- reading storybooks in library rather than playing on iPads all day. However, these are not your average bookstores. Many of the stores contain limited edition books meant for avid collectors- one book can cost upwards of $200. The novels are especially helpful for individual's conducting research as many of these exclusive textbooks are hard to obtain. The Used Book Town is not limited to educational novels; there are also stores dedicated to the arts, photography, and magazines.

Yamagata

Somaro is the home of Sakata Maiko. Many people know about geisha, but few know about maiko. At Somaro, visitors can experience a well-preserved form of Japanese entertainment that is often forgotten. The maiko are students of the arts and masters of performance in their own right. They are preserving the cultural history of Japan through dance and song. The beauty and elegance of each maiko is further exemplified in their routine. Their enticing voices resonate throughout Somaro. One does not need to understand Japanese to be hypnotized into a trace-like state. In addition to watching the maiko perform, visitors can also explore the property to see priceless artwork and vases displays.

Suzuki Cherry Farm is so lusciously green. It is hosts various types of cherry trees, each abundant with fruit. The owner demonstrates the correct way of cherry picking to ensure proper growth for the next generation of cherries. The site is home to over half a dozen variety of cherries that vary by size, color, and tartness. 

Kamo Aquarium is the home to a cornucopia of jellyfish and marine life. The aquarium is suitable for visitors of all ages. The part that separates Kamo Aquarium from other aquariums is its jellyfish ice cream. Not only can visitors ooh and ahh at the free nature of the jellyfish, but they can also taste it. Jellyfish is a delicacy in Asia, often served cold and pickled. The jellyfish ice cream was most unique to me because I have never seen jellyfish served this way. You can choose between jellyfish with soft serve or jellyfish ice. Take my advice and try the jellyfish ice!

Shojin Ryori is the practice of Buddhist cuisine. Each portion of our meal was created from handpicked wild vegetables growing on the mountain side. The meal was especially meaningful because establishment is an integral part of a Buddhist’s pilgrimage.