Tokyo tourism: Chinzan-so garden, delicious food and rich in culture

Tokyo tourism: Chinzan-so garden, delicious food and rich in culture

Olivier LeCourt and Lee Jay Walker

Modern Tokyo Times

Chinzan-so is a stunning garden in Tokyo whereby you can view the natural beauty of an amazing Japanese garden, beautiful architecture, elements of Buddhism, the magical world of Shintoism, and so much more. Also, unlike the vast majority of stunning gardens in Tokyo which close early this doesn’t apply to Chinzan-so therefore at night the garden is also extremely beautiful and you have many restaurants to eat scrumptious Japanese food. However, being Chinzan-so, then even the restaurants blend in with the natural environment and clearly this beautiful place would bless any major city in the world.

The natural beauty of Chinzan-so is so refreshing because not only can you connect with stunning nature but also this garden is rich in culture and history. The stunning pagoda and aspects of Buddhism, Shintoism, Taoism, and the sacred 500 year old tree, also highlights the exquisite nature of Chinzan-so.

Luxury can also be found at (http://www.fourseasons.com/tokyo/) the Four Seasons Hotel which can be found throughout the amazing city of Tokyo and internationally. The Four Seasons Hotel highlighted in this article applies to the hotel which is located in the same Chinzan-so area. Therefore, if you adore luxury, architecture, the backdrop of an amazing garden and so much more; then the sublime Four Seasons Hotelfused with your stay in Tokyo and the richness of Chinzan-so garden is an amazing break which will stay long in the memory.

Chinzan-so is like walking into the past and into a magical world where you can imagine the amazing animation film called “Spirited Away” by Hayao Miyazaki. This applies to the stone deities, aspects of Buddhism, small Shinto shrine, and famous religious tree. Therefore, the spiritual nature of Chinzan-so is a welcome dimension and at night if you have an “over imagination,” then you can feel the mystery of the old world which is also highlighted in the animation film called “Spirited Away.”

This stunning garden enables people to feel the hidden magic of the Edo period and the changing times of Japan in the Meiji period. Also, it is clear that the opulent wealth of the elites in the past developed this splendid garden and they did so with an eye on culture and aesthetics.

Prince Aritomo Yamagata built his magnificent mansion where modern Chinzan-so stands but of course modifications have been made. The name Chinzan-so means “House of Camellia” therefore you will find many types of camellia throughout this exquisite and stunning garden.

In a past article about Chinzan-so by Modern Tokyo Times it was stated that “The prestige of Prince Aritomo Yamagata and his importance and how Chinzan-so is viewed can be judged by the fact that the Emperor Meiji held many important meetings in this place, in order to plan the future with dignitaries who held important seats of power.  Therefore, it is abundantly clear that the stunning environment, remote settings where seclusion could be found from prying eyes and the cultural aspect of Chinzan-so meant that it was an ideal setting.”

 

“Much of the historical legacy today which can be viewed must be credited to Baron Heitaro Fujita because he utilized the stunning grounds and topography.  This applies to adding important historical monuments and many of these came from Kyoto and Toba. However, the stunning pagoda which is very beautiful was relocated from Hiroshima.”

Therefore, the historical legacy and richness of culture is abundantly obvious because Baron Heitaro Fujita utilized every positive aspect of Chinzan-so and today Tokyoites and tourists can witness many intriguing aspects of Japanese culture. Also, from a religious and philosophical point of view the Taoist images from ancient China fuses naturally with aspects of Buddhism and Shintoism. These images and the numerous stone lanterns are a wonder to behold and the delightful pond, exquisite pagoda, images of Taoism and Buddhism, small Shinto shrine, a sacred 500 year old tree, waterfall, and the stunning layout of the garden means that Chinzan-so is very special.

Throughout the grounds you also have many restaurants to visit and for tourists and Tokyoites you can enjoy not only the natural beauty of Chinzan-so, but you can also eat scrumptious food. This applies to “Kinsui”which is a traditional restaurant which is famous for the kaiseki cuisine; “Mokushundo” where they provide delicious Japanese box lunches, fondue, and barbecue; “Chuu-an” restaurant serves up Edomae sushi and other delicious food; and “Mucha-an” restaurant provides delicious food and is known for their delicious Japanese soba.

The beauty of all these restaurants is that they blend in naturally within the stunning grounds of Chinzan-so. Therefore, the dining experience is a real treasure because not only can you eat extremely delicious food, but the backdrop of the stunning scenery is really special. Not surprisingly, all these restaurants are of the highest quality and cater for different styles of Japanese food.

Also, you have a firmly established restaurant called “Camellia” in this stunning environment and this dining place is famous for its French cuisine. This restaurant is rich in history because for more than 50 years it remains highly acclaimed based on the mouth-watering food which is provided.  The view is also extremely majestic and the setting is spacious. Therefore, if you are a connoisseur of scrumptious French cuisine then restaurant “Camellia” will certainly please you.

Within the main hotel complex overlooking Chinzan-so you have “Café Foresta” which is very spacious and a great place to relax and drink tea, coffee, and other choices, and to eat a delicious cake and so forth “Café Foresta” also provides amazing views of Chinzan-so if you are lucky enough to find a place by the enormous windows. At night, the view is fantastic because of the lights which highlight the beautiful pagoda and other special areas.

Chinzan-so is a must place to visit in Tokyo because of everything highlighted in this article and so much more.

http://www.chinzanso.com/english/restaurant.html

http://www.fourseasons.com/tokyo/ Four Seasons Hotel

http://www.chinzanso.com/english/

leejay@moderntokyotimes.com

Tokyo: Chinzan-so garden and exquisite restaurants

Tokyo: Chinzan-so garden and exquisite restaurants  

Lee Jay Walker

Modern Tokyo Times

Chinzan-so Garden is not only visually stunning but the unique surroundings and history of this garden means that it is not only a highly desirable tourist attraction, but it is a fantastic place to enjoy the splendid restaurants and to stay at a lovely hotel in this lovely part of Tokyo.

The history of Chinzan-so is fascinating because you have many historic remains and you feel like you are entering a different world.  This applies to the pre-Meiji period and the Meiji period when Japan developed rapidly. However, in Chinzan-so this is where history makers enjoyed the opulent wealth and natural beauty of this exquisite garden. Therefore, it is clear that old Japan survived in Tokyo within highly cultural places like Chinzan-so.

The well-known statesman in the early Meiji period, Prince Aritomo Yamagata, built his splendid mansion and the name Chinzan-so means “House of Camellia.” Obviously the name refers to the many types of camellia in this exquisite and historical garden.

The prestige of Prince Aritomo Yamagata and his importance and how Chinzan-so is viewed can be seen by the fact that the Emperor Meiji held many important meetings, in order to plan the future with dignitaries who held important seats of power.  Therefore, it is abundantly clear that the stunning environment, remote settings where seclusion could be found from prying eyes and the cultural aspect of Chinzan-so meant that it was an ideal setting.

Much of the historical legacy today which can be viewed must be credited to Baron Heitaro Fujita because he utilized the stunning grounds and topography.  This applies to adding important historical monuments and many of these came from Kyoto and Toba. However, the stunning pagoda which is very beautiful was relocated from Hiroshima.

Throughout your visit to Chinzan-so garden you will see many Taoist images and being Japan you will also see many Buddhist images because religious and philosophical fusions go hand in hand along with Shintoism.  These images and the numerous stone lanterns add to the charm and mystery of Chinzan-so.  The settings of this garden with the quaint pond, stunning pagoda, waterfall, lanterns, and images of Taoism and Buddhism, all adds to the exquisite nature of this lovely garden.

You also have a sacred 500 year old tree and Chinzan-so is clearly not just a garden because it is a place full of history and splendor.

Chinzan-so is also a great place to enjoy scrumptious food and enjoy the lovely surroundings.  “Kinsui” is a traditional restaurant and is located in a delightful area and the kaiseki cuisine is sure to please alongside other genuine and delicious Japanese dishes.  Also, you have a casual dining area located in “Kinsui” called “Hanaguruma” and this restaurant is also a great place to eat and relax.

“Mokushundo” is another fabulous place to eat fondue, traditional box lunches and barbecue which is cooked in a traditional Japanese style.  “Mokushundo” is five dining rooms which are detached and the tranquil and blissful garden setting means that you can enjoy the best of both worlds.

“Chuu-an” restaurant is also set in amazing surroundings and the backdrop of the pond amidst the stunning view means that luxury and the scrumptious Edomae sushi is a rare treasure.  Indeed, the food quality on offer is extremely delicious and this is matched by stunning beauty and you certainly feel like you have entered another world.

If you really like Japanese soba then you will clearly enjoy “Mucha-an” restaurant. This applies to the unique “Kaiseki” taste with scrumptious soba noodles.  Again, your walk to this restaurant is so pleasing and for Japanese soba noodle lovers then it is a most enjoyable place to eat.

Restaurant “Camellia” is famous for its French cuisine and for over 50 years this top notch restaurant continues to win acclaim.  The view is majestic and more spacious and if you are a connoisseur of the best of French cuisine then restaurant “Camellia” is the right place to visit and to enjoy sublime food.

“Café Foresta” is very relaxing and also the setting is very spacious and if you are lucky to sit by the window then you can see the stunning pagoda.  This café provides delicious cakes, sandwiches and you have a nice choice of coffee and tea.  It is a lovely place to relax and to enjoy your stay in Chinzan-so and adds to the variety of choice.

http://www.chinzanso.com/english/restaurant.html 　

http://www.chinzanso.com/english/

http://moderntokyotimes.com (please visit)

Harajuku street fashion and praying at the Meiji Shrine

Harajuku street fashion and praying at the Meiji Shrine

Lee Jay Walker

Modern Tokyo Times

Harajuku is famous for fashion and latest trends and the atmosphere is dynamic. Therefore, Harajuku is one of the most popular places to visit in Tokyo.  The beauty of Harajuku is that when you leave the Harajuku train station on the Yamanote Line you have two distinct options and people often mix both together if they are tourists.  This applies to visiting the stunning Meiji Shrine which is a major Shinto place of worship or browsing around the diverse fashion area. 

The Shinto religion is the indigenous faith of Japan and unlike Buddhism it fuses Japanese folklore with history and mythology.  Often you will see Shinto shrines and small statutes in the mountains of Japan and everything appears natural. 

The Meiji Shrine is a fantastic place to visit because nature and Shinto blends naturally and tourists, Tokyoites and religious people feel at ease immediately.  The serenity and architecture amongst the beauty of nature is very powerful and time and space will mean different things to each individual. However, you can certainly feel the pulse of something irrespective if it is Shinto mysticism or your own personal feelings. 

During my visits to Buddhist temples I feel nothing but I admire the architecture and in special temples the beauty of the gardens are amazing.  However, the kami spirits seem mysterious and irrespective if in the Meiji Shrine or the mountains of Japan; the mystery of life and nature does seem alive in Shintoism.

The beauty of the Shinto faith is that it also allows reality and does not seek to enforce pressure on individuals.  Therefore, before entering the main entrance you will see young Japanese people dressed in diverse styles of fashion and despite the closeness of this area to the Meiji Shrine, it is clear that no pressure is being put on fashion lovers who are within meters of the main entrance.

Leaving the religious world behind and visiting the fashion areas of Harajuku is a good way to understand Japan and Shintoism.  It is about co-existence in the modern world and the free spirit of Shintoism and the diverse kami which exist in nature and animism.

Literally within one minute or two minutes of leaving Harajuku train station you are either in the environment of the Meiji Shrine, Yoyogi Park or the fashion area of the Takeshita Dori or the more upmarket main street.  Therefore, the choice is yours and this is what makes Harajuku so special.

Also, the more you venture in Harajuku then you will also enter Omotesando and the fashion changes to high brands and exquisite fashion.  In truth, high quality and individualistic brands can be found throughout Harajuku and Omotesando and 6%DOKIDOKI and Tracy Reese sum up the fashion area.

This applies to the striking individualism of the fashion designer Sebastian Masuda and his dedicated staff at 6%DOKIDOKI because this fashion company represents the Harajuku feel and spirit of freedom. The color schemes at 6%DOKIDOKI are amazing and the style is vibrant and energetic.

 

6%DOKIDOKI and Sebastian Masuda

Meanwhile Tracy Reese represents the elegance of fashion in America and both companies represent the richness and beauty of fashion.  Therefore, just like the pluralism of Shintoism you have the rich diversity of fashion in Harajuku and Omotesando.

If you are a first time visitor to Tokyo then Harajuku should be high on your list because you can just soak up the atmosphere and the changes which can be found in this diverse part of Tokyo.  From the heart of Japanese religion which is represented at the Meiji Shrine to the creativity of fashion and designers like Sebastian Masuda.

In Harajuku the old world and new world does not clash because the environment is based on harmony and co-existence.  Also, the Meiji Shrine is blessed with stunning walks and this enables people to contemplate and think about the richness of this life.

 

http://www.meijijingu.or.jp/english/   (Meiji Shrine)

http://www.japan-guide.com/e/e3006.html (Places to visit)

http://www.dokidoki6.com/ (6%DOKIDOKI fashion)

http://www.omotesandohills.com/english/shops-restaurants/index.html  

http://www.tracyreese.com/c-45-dresses.aspx  (Tracy Reese fashion)

http://moderntokyotimes.com (please visit)

 

Tokyo Fashion: Daikanyama fashion is vibrant and trendy

Tokyo Fashion: Daikanyama fashion is vibrant and trendy

Lee Jay Walker

Modern Tokyo Times

Tokyo fashion is amazing and you have so many great places for fashion and Daikanyama is certainly one of the best places for fashion in this buzzing city. Therefore, while Ginza, Harajuku, Shibuya and Shinjuku are familiar names in Europe it soon becomes apparent that you have other major places for fashion once you visit Tokyo. This certainly applies to Aoyama, Daikanyama, Ebisu and Omotesando which are all exquisite places for fashion and Jiyugaoka is also quaint.

Of course, major fashion companies within Japan and famous international brands will know about Aoyama, Omotesando, and other places where fashion is valued highly.  However, for lay people then these names are not so well known outside of Japan but they certainly should be.

Also, you have other districts which are buzzing and fashion is very powerful in Ikebukuro and the Lumine store with shops like SmackyGlam is a great place to visit.  Similarly, the Ueno district of Tokyo is buzzing and this applies to both street fashion and in more recent times more upmarket fashion department stores have opened up for business in Ueno.

Daikanyama and the “European fashion district” is yet another piece in the jigsaw of diverse fashion districts in Tokyo. Therefore, fashion lovers are spoilt for choice and each environment tells its own story because of different fashion, age groups, trends and architecture.

In Daikanyama it soon becomes apparent that people in their mid-20s to mid-30s are well catered for but of course you will have people from different age groups who also visit but this appears to be the core age range.

Fashion is in abundance and shops like Evisu, Silas and Maria, Hollywood Ranch Market, Loveless, Via Bus Stop, Hemisphere, Actus, Alfredo Bannister, AS, Tsumori Chisato, APC and a host of others like Arigato, can be found in this buzzing and trendy part of Tokyo.

Daikanyama is situated near Ebisu and Shibuya but despite this the area is distinctive and it is a great place to relax, shop for fashion and enjoy a splendid meal.

http://www.fashioninjapan.com/fashionspot/daikanyama.html  (Good images for fashion in Daikanyama)

http://www.jnto.go.jp/eng/location/regional/tokyo/ebisu_daikanyama.html

http://moderntokyotimes.com (please visit)

Tokyo ladies: fashion in Ikebukuro and Shibuya

Tokyo ladies: fashion in Ikebukuro and Shibuya

Lee Jay Walker 

Modern Tokyo Times

Smacky Glam – Modern Tokyo Times Image

In a survey by Kanebo Cosmetics it was reported that Tokyo ladies use more make-up than any other major city in Asia.  Fashion is also high on the agenda and for the modern Tokyo lady image, style, and dressing fashionable is a way of life.

Tokyo is awash with fashion and Daikanyama, Ebisu, Harajuku, Ikebukuro, Ginza, Omotesando, Shibuya, Shinjuku, and other areas in Tokyo, caters for fashion on a grand scale. 

This sector is extremely competitive and this applies to domestic companies and international companies.  Therefore, for Tokyo ladies they are spoilt for choice and “in places” and famous stores are competing for a slice of the enormous apple pie. 

In Ikebukuro the Lumine company is re-igniting fashion　in this part of Tokyo and the west side of Ikebukuro is “breathing to a new fashion beat” because major restructuring is ongoing.  This applies to many fashion boutiques opening up in and around the train station.

Lumine is vibrant and full of energy and the décor is a wonder to behold and this is matched by an abundance of high quality stores which provide stylish clothes and other products.

The list of high quality companies in Lumine is too many to name but Smacky Glam (SmackyGlam) caters for ladies who love exquisite fabrics and designs.  This fashion outlet is full of panache and is ultra modern and this suits the modern Tokyo lady to the full.

Also, it is clear that space, design of the layout and the show of the products on offer is part and parcel of this exquisite company.  Smacky Glam therefore utilizes the natural environment of the Lumine layout and creates an image of modernity, style, and elegance.

This is matched by extremely high quality clothing and delightful color schemes which suit the modern Tokyo lady.  Smacky Glam, and other high quality companies in Lumine in Ikebukuro, have created an atmosphere of luxury, modernity, and creativity.

Ikebukuro is connected to Shibuya by several train lines and Shibuya is famous for its energy and it is a Mecca for young adults.

Shibuya is always buzzing and latest fads pass through Shibuya and Harajuku. Also, just like all major fashion areas in Tokyo, you have a distinctive feeling in Shibuya and the raw energy is noticeable.

Shibuya fashion is not just about extremes it is about a mixture of fashion styles and just like life, it is never static but always looking for a new creative feel.  Shibuya 109 is a hub for fashion and keeps on drawing in the crowds. If you want the more daring side of Shibuya then boutiques like Candy is for you or you can feel the vibes of the Center Gai area or Koen Dori.

Smacky Glam is also located in Shibuya given the fresh outlook of this company and the appeal of fashion in Shibuya is its rich diversity.  Boutiques like Candy, Smacky Glam, and a host of other fabulous fashion companies, can be found and the richness of styles is amazing.

Lumine in Ikebukuro – Modern Tokyo Times Image

Even if you are not a fashion guru you can feel the rich and youthful energy of Shibuya, therefore, if you desire to feel “the teenage or young adult within you” then it will be revitalized in Shibuya.

It is also noticeable that “Shibuya girls” care deeply about hair style and the “in colors” are blonde, reddish brown, light brown and a mixture of other colors.

Ikebukuro and Shibuya are very near and by the Saikyo Line it takes between 8 and 10 minutes or you can travel by the Yamanote Line. 

Therefore, you can easily visit both Ikebukuro and Shibuya on the same day and appreciate both places for their unique differences. 

Shibuya and its energy

Local Tokyoites will clearly have their own special parts of Tokyo which appeals to them and the same applies to people who reside in Chiba, Kanagawa, and Saitama. 

If you are a tourist or if you are thinking about visiting Tokyo in the near future; then for fashion lovers you will find so many fantastic boutiques in Ikebukuro and Shibuya. 

A visit to Candy in Shibuya and Smacky Glam in both Ikebukuro and Shibuya is well worth it.  This applies to the contrasting styles and different thought patterns which have produced such stylish clothing.

The ying and yang of different fashion boutiques is refreshing the fashion industry in Tokyo.  In truth, you have so many exquisite boutiques in Ikebukuro and Shibuya, therefore, you will be spoilt for choice.

www.smackyglam.com –  Smacky Glam

http://sanyo-i.jp   –  Sanyo i Store (Sanyo Shokai Ltd)

http://tokyofashion.com/candy-sister-fashion-shibuya/ 

http://www.fashion-j.com/E/trend/201010.html  (3^rd article from the top shows some images of Lumine in Ikebukuro.)

http://moderntokyotimes.com (please visit)