Behind the famous Sensoji temple in Asakusa is a local neighborhood where they hold the annual Ichiyo Sakura Festival in April along the main street lined with Ichiyo cherry blossoms. The festival highlight is the Oiran Dochu courtesan procession and an Oiran Show. The area is near the old Yoshiwara red-light district. I saw this festival twice, in 2007 and 2010. Also see my video at YouTube.

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The 23rd Asakusa Odori, a dance performed by Asakusa geisha, was held on Oct. 28-29, 2008 at the Asakusa Kokaido Hall in Asakusa, Tokyo. It was a rare opportunity to see this dance performed only once every several years. The dances were stunningly beautiful. These pictures were taken during the final show on Oct. 29, 2008 during 3 pm to 5:30 pm.

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The annual "Hana no Kai" dance performance by Kagurazaka geisha was held on April 8, 2006. For the first time, they held three performances on the same day and all three shows sold out.

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Colorful "Hana no Kai" dance performed by by geisha in Kagurazaka, Tokyo on April 16, 2005 at the Ushigome-Tansu Kumin Hall.

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The tekomai geisha from Fukagawa/Tatsumi area in Koto Ward, Tokyo wear a colorful costume which is partially masculine with trousers instead of skirts. As they walk, they only sing traditional chant-like songs. They do not dance. You can see them at the Tomioka Hachiman Festival in Aug. and at Koto Ward Citizens' Festival at Kiba Park in mid-Oct. Also see my video at YouTube.

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Belonging to the Shingon Sect's Buzan school, this is one of Tokyo's major temples. The real name is Sojiji (總持寺), but everyone calls it Nishi-Arai Daishi. The temple grounds feature many flowering trees and plants including an unusual species of cherry blossoms which bloom in winter.

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Gorge (Akikawa Keikoku) near Musashi-Itsukaichi Station is part of the Chichibu-Tama-Kai National Park and one of Tokyo's Best 100 Landscapes.

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Other sights in Akiruno, Tokyo.

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Tokyo once had 41 streetcar lines. All but one has given way to buses and subways. The Arakawa Line of the Tokyo Toden survived, running between Minowa-bashi and Waseda Stations. Four kilometers of the route runs through Arakawa Ward.

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Arakawa Ward's largest park features a duck pond, kids pool, tennis courts, baseball field, cherry blossoms, and a bicycling path for kids. Rental bicycles, go-karts, and unicycles are available for free. Open 7 am to 5 pm or until 9 pm during the warmer months. Near Arakawa 2-chome Station on the Tokyo Toden streetcar Arakawa Line.

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Tokyo's most famous and popular Buddhist temple and tourist attraction belongs to the independent Sho-kannon religion 聖観音宗 of which it is the headquarters temple. It worships Kannon, the Goddess of Mercy. Its trademark is the Kaminarimon Gate with a giant red paper lantern. The temple is lined with a souvenir arcade called Nakamise. The temple is the nucleus of Asakusa.

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Asakusa's elegant White Heron Dance is based on Yasaka Shrine's Gion Matsuri in Kyoto where it was originally performed over a thousand years ago. A depiction of it was found in a picture scroll showing a Sensoji temple festival in 1652. In 1968, the local Asakusa tourist association resurrected the dance. It is now performed a few times a year in Asakusa. I saw it in April 2010. Also see my video at YouTube.

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Hana Matsuri is Buddha's birthday on April 8. Sensoji temple in Asakusa also celebrated Hana Matsuri with the local kindergarten. They gave out free sweet tea (ama-cha) and flowers.

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Yabusame or horseback archery at Sumida Park is held annually in April. Originally an event of Asakusa Jinja Shrine, it is now held as a tourist attraction. The archery course stretches from the Tobu train bridge to Kototoi Bridge in Sumida Park parallel to Sumida River. Near Asakusa Station. Also see my YouTube video here.

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Asakusa Shrine holds one of Tokyo's biggest festivals during the weekend of the third Sunday of May. Numerous portable shrines (mikoshi) parade all over Asakusa amid huge crowds. Sanja means "Three Shrines," dedicated to the three fishermen who found the Kannon buddha statue which became the object of worship that founded Sensoji Temple. They are deified by Asakusa Shrine next to Sensoji Temple. The festival's formal name is Asakusa Jinja Reitaisai. Also see my video at YouTube.

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The 28th Asakusa Samba Carnival was held on Aug. 30, 2008. Despite the heavy rains that fell at the halfway through, the show went on and most people stayed to watch.

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The 26th Asakusa Samba Carnival was held on Aug. 26, 2006. Some 4,500 members from 33 troupes paraded from 1:30 pm to 6 pm. About 500,000 people were on hand to watch.

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Held annually on Nov. 3 (Culture Day) in Asakusa, the Tokyo Jidai Matsuri (Festival of Historical Periods) is a parade tracing the history of Tokyo with over 1,600 people dressed in the respective period's costume. This is a complete guide to all the groups that appear in the parade. Most photos were taken in 2004 and 2005, with a few taken in earlier years. Also see my video at YouTube.

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Held during Dec. 17-19, the annual Hagoita-ichi Battledore Fair has numerous battledore stalls within the grounds of Sensoji temple selling all kinds of battledores. These are ornamental paddles with elaborate decorations often depicting geisha, kabuki actors, and celebrities. Also see my YouTube video here.

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One of the nicest Japanese gardens in central Tokyo, and one of two of Edo's famous gardens (other is Koishikawa Korakuen). The garden was built in 1702 by Lord Yanagisawa Yoshiyasu from Kawagoe, who was a favorite ally of Shogun Tokugawa Tsunayoshi, the 5th Tokugawa Shogun. It is a Kaiyu-type Daimyo garden with hills and ponds. It is famous for a large weeping cherry tree which blooms in late March. Also pretty in autumn. Near Komagome Station on the Yamanote Line.

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With Tokyo Dome looming above, Koishikawa Korakuen is another famous Edo-Period Japanese garden originally built by Lord Yorifusa of the Mito Tokugawa Clan in 1629 as part of his Edo estate. The garden was completed under Lord Mitsukuni, the second lord of the Mito clan. The garden is famous for weeping cherry trees and other flowers which can be enjoyed throughout the year. Near Iiidabashi Station and Korakuen Station.

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The Bunkyo Tsutsuji Matsuri or Azalea Festival is held from April to early May at Nezu Jinja Shrine which has a slope filled with 50 varieties of azaleas. They usually reach full bloom in late April, but there are flowers which bloom later or earlier so there's always something in bloom during the festival period. All that pink and red might overload your color senses. Near Nezu Station on the Chiyoda subway line.

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Held in Hakusan Shrine and the adjacent Hakusan Park, numerous hydrangea bloom during rainy June. The centerpiece is a pile of hydrangea in the shape of Mt. Fuji.

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Belonging to the Buzan School of the Shingon Sect of Buddhism, this temple was built by the mother of Shogun Tokugawa Tsunayoshi in 1682. The Gekkoden Hall was moved here from Miidera temple in Otsu, Shiga Pref. The Tahoto Pagoda was modeled after the Tahoto at Ishiyamadera in Otsu, Shiga. Okuma Shigenobu, founder of Waseda Univ., is also buried here.

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Smack dab in the middle of central Tokyo is Japan's most exclusive and expensive piece of real estate. Formerly Edo Castle and the residence of the Tokugawa shoguns, the Imperial Palace is now home to the Emperor and Empress of Japan. A few sections of the palace is open to the public.

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Dec. 23 is Emperor Akihito's birthday and a national holiday. The Emperor's birthday and Jan. 2 are the only two days when the general public is allowed to enter the Imperial Palace to greet the Emperor and his family. These pictures were taken on Dec. 23, 2004. Also see the video at YouTube.

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Chidorigafuchi is a moat at the Imperial Palace and one of Tokyo's best-known spots for cherry blossoms in late March. At night, the trees are lit up, attracting enormous crowds. In July, it holds the floating lantern festival (Noryo no yube) in the evening. Near Kudanshita Station on the Tozai subway line.

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The National Diet is Japan's political and legislative center. The capital of Japan. Free 60-min. tours (in Japanese only) are conducted every hour every day when the Diet is not in session. You can see the House of Councillors (Sangiin), the central tower, and the Emperor's Room.

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Japan's largest cluster of electrical appliance shops has been undergoing a major facelift and transformation since 2005. A number of tall new buildings, a new train line, and the anime invasion is making Akihabara a new hot spot.

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Near JR Akihabara Station is a new building called Akihabara UDX (Crossfield). On the 4th floor is the Tokyo Anime Center which has anime displays, a theater, and voice acting recording studio. Free admission.

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This is one of Japan's Big Three Festivals and one of Tokyo's Big Three Festivals held in mid-June during several days. The main highlight is the Jinko-sai Procession held every two years. The 600-meter long procession consists of about 500 people parading through central Tokyo near the National Diet, Imperial Palace, Tokyo Station, and Ginza. It includes three portable shrines, carriages, and flower floats. Various events are also held at Hie Shrine which holds the festival. Photos were taken in June 2004.

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Hie Shrine is dedicated to Oyamakui-no-kami 大山咋神, the deity of Mount Hiei in Shiga Prefecture. This deity's common name is Hie-no-kami. The Tokugawa shoguns regarded the shrine as the guardian deity of Edo Castle, now the Imperial Palace. The shrine was first built within Edo Castle by Ota Dokan. The shrine was later moved and it has been in the present location since 1659. The main buildings were National Treasures until they burned down during a bombing raid in 1945. The shrine was rebuilt in 1958. Near Tameike-Sanno Station on the Ginza and Nanboku Lines.

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Founded in 1869 for the worship of those who sacrificed themselves for their country. Japan's most controversial shrine due to its enshrinement of Japan's war criminals and worshipping by Japanese prime ministers, upsetting neighboring Asian countries, especially China. But for most ordinary Japanese and foreign (includng Chinese) tourists, it's just another shrine and military museum. On Aug. 15, the anniversary of WWII's end, some former soldiers and nationalists march in the shrine. Near Kudanshita Station on the Tozai subway line.

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Held annually since 1947, the Mitama Matsuri is held in mid-July at Yasukuni Shrine. It is for the repose of over 2.4 million souls of the war dead honored at the shrine. The main feature are the many lanterns decorating the shrine grounds (over 29,000 in 2006). Various events and entertainment are also held during the four-day festival period. In 2006, a Nebuta float also paraded into the shrine. Also see the Nebuta video at YouTube.

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One of Japan's largest and busiest train stations is undergoing a major redevelopment on all sides. The Marunouchi side with the red brick building is being dwarfed by modern high-rises. On the Yaesu side, twin towers loom above while the station building (Daimaru Dept. Store) will give way to a low, swathing structure.

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Tokyo Millenario is a brilliant sculpture of light mounted over a street in Marunouchi near Tokyo Station. It is held during the last week of the year until New Year's Day. The event started in 1999, but after 2005 it will stop due to construction work in the area which will last until 2011.

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Jindaiji is the name of a temple as well as the surrounding area which is full of soba noodle shops.

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Other sights in Chofu, Tokyo.

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What I would call one of the major sightseeing attractions in the world, this world-famous fish market is an unbelievable place to behold. Giant tuna auctions, giant tuna carving, fish preparation, and the sale (and scale) of all kinds of fish in a huge and bustling market takes place almost every morning. See the best action from 5:30 am to 8 am. Also see my YouTube video here.

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Japan's most famous bridge is unfortunately one of the least outstanding, largely due to a huge expressway running right over it. It hardly receives any skylight. It used to be where all of Japan's major roads originated. Also see photos of Nihonbashi, a bustling area of dept. stores and company offices.

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Established in 1617, Tsukiji Hongwanji temple is the Tokyo headquarters of the Nishi Hongwanji Jodo Shinshu sect. The present temple, based on Indian architecture, was built in the 1930s. April 8 is observed as Buddha's birthday, called Hana Matsuri ("Flower Festival) in Japan.

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Waterfront garden built by the Tokugawa shoguns in the 17th century. During the Meiji Period, it became a Detached Palace for the Imperial family who gave the garden to the Tokyo in 1945. It used to have duck-hunting grounds. It was also the site of the Enryokan State Guesthouse where foreign dignitaries stayed such as former US president Ulysses Grant and Hawaii's King David Kalakaua.

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Held on the second Sunday of Jan., in the middle of winter, this shrine invites people to take a freezing-cold bath while wearing only a loincloth (or swimsuit for women). Kanchu means "during the cold," and suiyoku means "water bathing." The shrine is a 7-min. walk from Hatchobori Station on the Hibiya subway line.

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Waterfront park which provides Tokyo with an ocean beach. Opened in 1989, this large park also has a bird sanctuary built in 1994, a large Ferris wheel built in 2001, and Tokyo Sea Life Park, an aquarium. Great for bicycling and roller skating. Near Kasai Rinkai Koen Station on the JR Keiyo Line.

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A large patch along the Edogawa River comes alive with purple, white, and pink irises in late May and June. The Koiwa Iris Garden provides some excitement and eye candy during the drab rainy season. The irises were mainly donated by residents and the garden was opened in June 1982. It has about 50,000 iris plants. The garden is a 5-min. walk from Edogawa Station on the Keisei Line or 25 min. walk from Koiwa Station on the JR Sobu Line. Free admission.

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The Edogawa Ward Fireworks display is one of Tokyo's largest with a massive attendance of 900,000 people in both Edogawa Ward and neighboring Ichikawa city in Chiba. They are spread out along the riverbank of Edogawa River. Held on the first Sat. of Aug. at 7:15 pm to 8:25 pm. If weather is bad, it is held on the next day.

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Other photos of Edogawa Ward including Koiwa Station.

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Very spacious and modern, the Tokyo Race Course is a huge facility not only for horse racing and betting, but also for family recreation and amusement. The Japan Racing Association's flagship horse-racing course in Fuchu, Tokyo got a makeover in April 2007 with a new grandstand called Fuji View Stand. Impressive, and entertaining even for non-gamblers. The JRA Keiba (Horseracing) Museum is also open to the public. These photos were taken on June 14, 2009 when the Grade III Epsom Cup races were held. Also see my YouTube video here.

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Impressive open-air museum in a spacious park featuring historical buildings and flowers, especially the hydrangea.

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Fussa's biggest event is the Fussa Tanabata Matsuri. The 59th festival was held during Aug. 6-9, 2009. I visited on Aug. 9, 2009. Besides the colorful streamers decorating the west side of JR Fussa Station, there were mini parades by local school children, samba dancers, and military band. Also see my YouTube video here.

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During a weekend every Aug., Yokota Air Base opens the base to the public as a gesture of friendship with the host country. Military planes from the US Air Force and Japan Air Self-Defence Forces are on display, as well as food booths and stage entertainment. Airborne demonstrations are also a crowd favorite with parachuting and flybys by planes on the second day. These photos were taken on Aug. 23, 2009. Also see my YouTube video here.

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Other sights in Fussa, including Fussa Station and Tamagawa River.

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Hachioji's biggest event of the year is the Hachioji Matsuri held annually during the first weekend (Fri.-Sun.) of August near JR Hachioji Station. Featuring ornate floats, music, masked men dancing, taiko drumming, and portable shrine processions. Also held at night with the floats lit up. Also see my video at YouTube.

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Yakuoin temple on Mt. Takao holds its biggest festival on the second Sunday of March. The fire-walking festival at the foot of Mt. Takao features a dramatic bon fire followed by priests and numerous people walking over the embers (cooled). Also see the video at YouTube.

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Tokyo and the Kanto region's largest tulip field attains full bloom every mid-April. The Tulip Matsuri Festival is held for about 10 days, covering two weekends. It comes on the heels of Hamura's Sakura Matsuri held in early April along the Tamagawa River. On the weekend, free shuttle buses from Hamura Station take you to the tulip field.

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Besides tulips, Hamura is noted as the starting point of the Tamagawa Josui canal built by the Tamagawa farmer brothers in 1653 to supply water to the growing and thirsty city of Edo.

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A small park with a bamboo forest and one of Tokyo's Famous Water Springs. Near Higashi-Kurume Station on the Seibu Ikebukuro Line.

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Other sights in Higashikurume.

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Feb. 3 is bean-throwing day by minor celebrities at this big temple. They threw beans several times during the day. The Daruma Fair is also held on the same day, attracting a large crowd.

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One of the Big Three Fudoson temples in the Kanto region, the Takahata Fudoson temple is also famous for ties with Shinsengumi leader Hijikata Toshizo who was from Hino, Tokyo.

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A hill behind the Takahata Fudoson temple is covered with hydrangea (ajisai) which bloom in June. It is one of Tokyo's most famous places for ajisai. Numerous varieties of hydrangea are planted. The top of the hill was also the site of the medieval Takahata Castle of which little is known. The hill is dotted with 88 stone statues of Kobo Daishi (founder of Shingon Sect), mimicking the 88 pilgrimage temples in Shikoku.

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Opened in 1958, Tama Zoo is one of Japan's largest zoos on par with Ueno Zoo in Tokyo. Officially named the Tama Zoological Park, the zoo is spread over a very large and spacious area. What the panda is to Ueno Zoo is what the koala bear is to Tama Zoo. Three cute koala bears are on display in the Koala House. A baby koala was born on Oct. 25, 2008 and by June 2009 when these photos were taken, the baby koala grew large enough to be cute and recognizable as it clinged to its mother's belly. Also see my YouTube video here.

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Another major sight in Hino, this garden is famous for plum blossoms. About 800 plum trees are in the garden. Near Mogusaen Station on the Keio Line. Keio Railways operate the garden. Small admission charged.

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Mt. Hinode or Hinode-yama offers super panoramic views of Tokyo. I climbed it from Mt. Mitake in neighboring Ome. On the way down, I took the trail to see the waterfalls. Also see the video at YouTube.

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Out of Hinohara's many waterfalls, this is probably the most famous. Not only the falls are beautiful, but also the nice nature trail that leads to the falls. Located close to the center of town. Also see the video at YouTube.

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Two more waterfalls near central Hinohara village. Kichijoji Falls is a series of small waterfalls in a nice gorge. Nakayama Falls is not very visible. Also see the video at YouTube.

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The center of the village has the tourist info office, village office (with a nice coffee shop), and tourist shops.

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Another neighborhood Awa Odori festival held in the outskirts of Tokyo. These are photos of the 7th Inagi Awa Odori Taikai held on Sept. 6, 2008. Near Keio Yomiuriland Station on the Keio Sagamihara Line, not too far from Shinjuku. Also see my YouTube video here.

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Near Shin-Itabashi Station on the Mita subway line is the Shakujii River lined with 1,000 cherry trees.

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Thanks to movie director Yamada Yoji and Atsumi Kiyoshi, alias Tora-san, Shibamata has become famous throughout Japan. Its anchor is the Shibamata Taishakuten Temple which served as a recurrent backdrop in the Tora-san series. The temple's priest was played by the humorous Ryu Chishu. However, even without its movie fame, its exquisite wooden sculpture walls make it a major attraction by itself.

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"Watakushi, umare mo sodachi mo Katsushika, Shibamata desu..." (I was born and raised in Shibamata, Katsushika Ward) If this opening line sounds familiar, you must be one of the many ardent fans of the Tora-san "Otoko wa Tsurai Yo" (It's Tough Being a Man) movie series. Played by the late Atsumi Kiyoshi, Tora-san is Japan's most lovable drifter and lovelorn on the silver screen. Forty-eight movies in this series were produced from 1969 to 1995. Katsushika-ku is where the Tora-san Museum is. Also see my video at YouTube.

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Since centuries ago, this is one of Japan's most famous iris gardens. Often depicted in woodblock prints and in vintage postcards, this iris garden was purchased by Tokyo and became a metropolitan garden in 1960. In April 1975, it was transferred to Katsushika Ward. Although it is smaller than its original area, the garden today is still quite large with numerous iris paddies. Near Horikiri Shobuen Station on the Keisei Main Line.

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Besides Horikiri Iris Garden, Katsushika Ward boasts another large iris garden in Mizumoto Park.

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Other sights in Katsushika Ward, Tokyo, including Kameari.

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Near Oji Station on the Keihin-Tohoku Line is this slender park noted for cherry blossoms.

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Blending Western and Japanese-style gardens and famous for roses and azaleas. Also pretty in fall. Near Komagome Station (Yamanote Line) and Kami-Nakazato Station (Keihin-Tohoku Line)

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Other sights in Kita Ward, Tokyo.

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Kiyose is noted for a few areas where these woodland flowers (called katakuri in Japanese or Erythronium japonicum) grow in early spring (late March). While they are in bloom usually the last week of March, they hold the Katakuri Matsuri festival where they have maps and human guides to show you where the flowers are.

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Other sights in Kiyose.

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Opened in 1954, Koganei Park is a huge public park run by the Tokyo Metropolitan Government. Besides 1,800 cherry trees, it includes an outdoor architectural museum, bird sanctuary, tennis courts, baseball diamond, and more. Near Musashi-Koganei Station on the Chuo Line.

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Located within the huge Koganei Park, this museum opened in March 1993 to show the architecture of 27 reconstructed buildings originally from the Edo Period and up to the 1930s. From thatched-roof houses to the elegant mansions of business tycoons, you can see the building inside and out.

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Medium-size Japanese garden with flowers, bamboo grove, pond, and tea ceremony pavilion. The garden was originally built in 1915 as part of the second home of Eguchi Sadamine, vice president of Manchuria Railroad in China. In 1929, it became the villa of the Iwasaki family who operated the Mitsubishi Zaibatsu group. Tokyo bought the estate from Iwasaki family in 1974 and opened it to the public. Two-minute walk from Kokubunji Station on the JR Chuo Line, Seibu Kokubunji Line and Seibu Tamako Line.

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Other sights in Kokubunji.

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Komae's most prominent temple belongs to the Soto School of the Zen Sect near Komae Station. Affiliated with Eiheiji temple in Fukui and Sojiji temple. Official Web site.

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A traditional thatched-roof house originally built in the late 18th century. It got in the way of the Odakyu train line (twice) near Komae Station so it was finally moved here in 2002. It was a farmer's home. Free admission. Open 9:30 am-4:30 pm (till 6 pm in July-Aug.). Closed Wed. and Thu. Address: Moto-Izumi 2-15-5 狛江市元和泉2-15-5, Phone: 03-3489-8981

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Komae fronts the Tama River along the border with neighboring Kawasaki in Kanagawa Prefecture. In spring, the cherry blossoms bloom along the riverside.

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Komae's most popular shrine dedicated to the god of happiness. People hoping for a good marriage partner also pray here. The shrine was first built in 889 near Tama River. After a river flood washed away the shrine, it was moved to its present location in 1552. Located in Naka-Izumi 3-21-8. About a 12-min. walk from Komae Station. 狛江市中和泉３－２１－８

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Komae has numerous ancient tumuli, some say up to 100. However, most have been dismantled and only 13 are left. Kabuto-zuka is the city's largest tumulus, in the middle of a residential neighborhood. It is round, with a diameter of 38 meters, and height 6 meters. It is a Tokyo Prefectural Historic Place. Most other tumuli are on private property and permission is required to enter them.

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Other sights in Komae, Tokyo including Komae Station.

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Near Monzen-Nakacho Station on the Tozai subway line, the shrine is the heart of Fukagawa. The shrine is said to have had its beginnings in 1627 when a prince from Kyoto enshrined a statue of the deity Hachiman on a small island called Eitai-jima near Fukagawa. The local Fukagawa community soon started worshipping this deity. By 1651, it became a major shrine in Edo's shitamachi or merchant's quarters. The shrine also has historical ties to sumo, makred by the Yokozuna Rikishi Monument (Yokozuna Rikishi-hi) and the Ozeki Rikishi Monument (Ozeki Rikishi-hi).

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The full-scale version (Hon-matsuri) of this festival is held every three years by Tomioka Hachimangu Shrine near Monzen-Nakacho Station on the Tozai Line. These photos show the festival's climax on the last day of the festival when over 50 portable shrines are paraded along the streets amid splashing water. It is the Rengo Togyo or Joint Procession of Portable Shrines. More photos are at PhotoExposure. Also see the video at YouTube and water truck video at YouTube.

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In mid-Oct. at Kiba Park, the local traditional folk entertainment is performed. Kiba Kakunori is square log rolling. They do all kinds of tricks while rolling on square (not round) logs. This is followed by Kiba Kiyari which is a workman's chant, the Fukagawa Tekomai Geisha, and Fukagawa Chikara-mochi which are strongman stunts using bales of rice. Also see the video at YouTube.

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Kameido Tenmangu Shrine in Koto Ward, Tokyo is most famous for wisteria which bloom during late April to early May. These pictures were taken in various years, mainly in 1997, 2004, and 2005.

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Held every autumn, the Chrysanthemum Festival (Kiku Matsuri) at Kameido Tenjin Shrine displays many exotic and pretty varieties of this flower. They can be shaped and trimmed in fantastic ways. Very nice when you go and see them during shichi-go-san in Nov. when 7-year-old and 3-year-old girls and 5-year-old boys come to shrine in kimono.

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Made famous by woodblock prints from the Edo Period, Kameido Tenmangu Shrine (also called Kameido Tenjin Shrine) is in Kameido, Koto Ward, Tokyo. It is dedicated to Sugawara Michizane, a scholar of the Heian Period (794-1185) and now worshipped as a god of learning. Many students hoping to pass school entrance exams come to pray here. Includes photos of plum blossoms and the annual chrysanthemum festival.

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The Usokae Festival is held every January at the Kameido Tenmangu Shrine. "Uso" means bullfinch, and "kae" means to change. The bullfinch is a symbol of good luck, and uso can also mean "lie." People replace their wooden uso dolls believing that the previous year's bad luck was a lie, to be exchanged for good luck in the new year with the new uso doll.

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Opened to the public in 1932, the garden was built and developed by several owners starting with Kinokuniya Bunzaemon, a successful Edo-Period merchant. Iwasaki Yataro, the founder of the Mitsubishi Zaibatsu, acquired the estate in 1878 and developed the garden with a pond and famous stones brought from all over Japan. It is a very green garden. Near Kiyosimi-Shirakawa Station on the Oedo and Hanzomon subway lines.

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The Fukagawa-Edo Shiryokan Museum recreates an Edo-Period neighborhood in Saga-cho, Fukagawa with life-size buildings from that period. You can enter the rooms and see various furniture and implements used in those days by the common people.

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Japan's most famous haiku poet, Matsuo Basho (1644-1694), lived in Koto Ward from 1680 in his Basho-an Hut. He also embarked on his famous Okuno Hosomichi journey from Koto Ward. Statues of Basho and the Basho Memorial Museum have been built in Koto.

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Koto Ward in Tokyo hosts various major sporting events like the Tokyo Marathon and bj-league pro basketball team Tokyo Apache.

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Between JR Kunitachi Station (Chuo Line) and Yaho Station (JR Nanbu Line) is a straight road called Daigaku-dori famous for cherry blossoms. Intersecting it is another sakura-lined road called Sakura-dori. Daigaku-dori is so-named due to Hitotsubashi University which is along this road.

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Meguro Ward's most famous spot for cherry blossoms is along the Megurogawa River near Naka-Meguro Station on the Hibiya Line. However, flower-viewing picnics are not allowed, and cars keep whipping by to make it annoying and dangerous.

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Japan's most prestigious university has a large campus in Komaba where all freshman and sophomores study. It is a mixture of old and new buildings. Near Komaba-Todaimae Station on the Inokashira Line from Shibuya.

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The head temple of the Jodo-shu Buddhist sect and best known as the temple of the Tokugawa shoguns. On Feb. 3, it holds the annual Setsubun bean throwing ceremony where celebrities throw the beans.

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For setsubun, mamemaki (bean-throwing) at this temple was held on Feb. 3, 2010. A few celebrities like Ohbayashi Motoko (former volleyball player) participated.

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Constructed in 1958, the 333-meter-high Tokyo Tower has been a prominent Tokyo landmark for as long as we can remember. Although it's not as beautiful as the Eiffel Tower, it serves its purpose well. Not recommended for people allergic to radio waves or afraid of heights.

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This temple is famous for the graves of the 47 ronin or masterless samurai from Ako Province who avenged their master, Lord Asano, by capturing and beheading Kira at his estate in Ryogoku on Dec. 14, 1702. On Dec. 14, the Gishisai ceremony reenacts the 47 samurai who march to the temple carrying Kira's head. Read story here. The temple belongs to the Zen sect's Soto school. Near Sengakuji Station on the Toei Asakusa subway line. Also see my YouTube video here.

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A real oasis in an urban jungle. Another waterfront garden with classic Japanese-style elements with a pond, pine trees, rocks, and stone lanterns. First built in the 17th century and used as the residence of a number of nobles. Purchased from the Arisugawa family in 1875 by the Imperial Household Agency which made it the Shiba Detached Palace. The buildings were destroyed in the Kanot Earthquake in 1923 and the property was donated to Tokyo in 1924 to commemorate the start of Emperor Showa's reign.

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Japan's first public cemetery is operated by the Tokyo Metropolitan Government. Famous for cherry trees lining the main throughfare and for the graves of many statesmen, company founders, foreigners, and celebrities. Several former Japanese prime ministers such as Yoshida Shigeru, Miyazawa Kiichi, Ikeda Hayato, and Hashimoto Ryutaro are buried here. The loyal dog Hachiko (famous in Shibuya) is also buried along with his master.

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Adjacent to Zojoji Temple, Shiba Park has Toshogu Shrine and the Maruyama Tumulus.

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One of Tokyo's major parks noted for cherry blossoms. A nice respite from the hustle and bustle of Kichijoji's shopping district nearby. Although this park is near Kichijoji Station which is in Musashino city, the park is actually within Mitaka city.

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The ICU Mitaka campus has a straight, wide road lined with cherry trees. I'll never forget how spectacular it was when I first saw them in full bloom. A cherry blossom tunnel.

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On Aug. 22-23, 2009, the 42nd Mitaka Awa Odori dance was held near JR Mitaka Station's south side. The dance is held annually on the third weekend of Aug. Thirty awa odori troupes participated along the shopping street. The quality of the dance troupes are excellent. Also see my YouTube video here.

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The 36th Kichijoji Autumn Festival (Aki Matsuri) was held on Sept. 13-14, 2008 by Musashino Hachimangu Shrine. Ten mikoshi portable shrines were paraded around the streets of Kichijoji on both days. On the second day, all the mikoshi gathered in front of Kichijoji Station at 3 pm. At 4:30 pm, a parade went through the Sunroad shopping arcade. Kichijoji's biggest event of the year. Also see my YouTube video here.

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Belonging to the Shingon Sect, Buzan School, Hosenji temple holds an unusual setsubun bean-throwing ceremony on Feb. 3. It includes a procession of warrior monks and throwing mikan tangerines besides beans. The temple is near Nakano-Sakue Station on the Marunouchi Line subway. Also see the video at YouTube.

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Other sights in Nakano Ward, Tokyo.

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The 34th Nakamurabashi Awa Odori folk dance was held on September 6, 2009 from 5 pm to 8:30 pm near Nakamurabashi Station on the Seibu Ikebukuro Line in Nerima Ward, Tokyo, Japan. A total of 12 awa odori troupes participated. I photographed all the groups, with emphasis on Narimasu Child-ren (成増チルド連) and Okame-ren (女華夢連). Also see my YouTube video here.

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The 33rd Nakamurabashi Awa Odori festival was held on Sept. 7, 2008. The rain did not stop the dance festival nor dampen the enthusiasm of the dancers and spectators. The dance parade was held along the Santsu Nakamurabashi shopping street that intersects with Nakamurabashi Station. Nakamurabashi is a short train ride from Ikebukuro Station on the Seibu Ikebukuro Line. Also see my YouTube video here.

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Kitamachi is a small neighborhood near Tobu-Nerima Station on the Tobu Tojo Line coming from Ikebukuro Station. The Kitamachi Awa Odori is one of many Awa Odori dances held in the Tokyo area. Twenty-seven dance teams participated on July 26, 2008 when these are pictures were taken. It was the 16th Kitamachi Awa Odori held during 6 pm to 8:30 pm. Also see my YouTube video here.

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Features a large pond with rowboats and swan boats for rent. Cherry trees are everywhere, but not clustered together. Near Shakujii-Koen Station on the Seibu Ikebukuro Line.

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Lake Okutama in western Tokyo is a man-made lake supplying water to Tokyo.

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Other sights in Okutama town, Tokyo.

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Yoshino Baigo is a valley and hillside covered with ume plum trees. It boasts a wide variety of different plum blossoms. During full bloom as you can see here, the scenery is spectacular.

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One of Tokyo's easily accessible peaks via cable car still requires a good deal of climbing up slopes and steps. You can also hike to adjacent Mt. Hinode-yama. Great daytrip getaway from Tokyo's concrete jungle.

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Beautiful gorge along the Tama River almost parallel to the Ome Line. Get off at Mitake Station or Saiwai Station.

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Other sights in Ome, Tokyo.

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Belonging to the Nichiren Sect, this is one of Tokyo's major temples. Spread over a wide area with an impressive Hondo hall, 400-year-old pagoda, and other buildings, the temple also has the grave of Rikidozan, the famous wrestler. It also celebrates Hanamatsuri (Buddha's Birthday) on April 8.

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Pleasant pond for rowboats and pedal boats. Noted for cherry blossoms. Near Senzoku-Ike Station on the Tokyu Ikegami Line from Gotanda.

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Near Ontakesan Station on the Tokyo Ikegami Line is Ontake Jinja Shrine and Tenso Jinja Shrine which holds the Negi-no-Mai Dance in April.

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Near Gotokuji Station on the Odakyu Line, Gotokuji Temple is known as the Ii Clan's family temple. Over 300 lords, wives, concubines, and children related to the Ii Clan from Hikone Castle in Shiga Prefecture, are buried here. Six Hikone Castle lords, including Ii Naosuke, have graves here. The temple is also where the maneki neko, or beckoning cat, is said to have originated.

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Near Odakyu Umegaoka Station ("Umegaoka" means plum hill), this park is noted for plum blossoms in Feb.-Mar. It has about 700 plum trees and also sports facilities and public library.

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Adjacent to Meiji Shrine and near Harajuku, this park is noted for cherry blossoms.

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Gateway to Japan's youth culture.

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During the Edo Period, the Tokaido Road connecting Tokyo (Edo) and Kyoto was the most important travel corridor which had 53 post towns to lodge travelers. Shinagawa-juku was the first such stage town on the route. Numerous inns, teahouses, and entertainment quarters were on this waterfront town. Today, the road still remains, but everything is totally modern. No traditional-looking buildings except for shrines and temples.

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One of Shinagawa Ward's major shrines. Dedicated to Amenohirinome-no-Mikoto, Susano-o-no-Mikoto, and Uganome-no-Mikoto. Near Shin-Bamba Station North Exit on the Keihin Kyuko Line from Shinagawa Station.

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Gotanda is on the Yamanote Line between Osaki and Shinagawa Stations, and on the Toei Asakusa Line.

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If you look at any map of central Tokyo, you'll see that Shinjuku Gyoen is one big blotch of green. This huge urban oasis delights you with something blooming every month, especially the cherry blossoms in late March to early April. Open 9 am to 4 pm, closed Mon. except in late March till April 24 and Nov. 1-15 when it is open every day. Admission 200 yen for adults.

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In late July, the east side of Shinjuku Station becomes like Okinawa for a day with many Okinawans performing the Eisa taiko drumming dance which is like a Bon dance. Photos were taken on July 30, 2005. Also see the video at YouTube.

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The 37th Kagurazaka Awa Odori Dance was held during July 25-26, 2008 from 7 pm to 9 pm. These pictures were taken on the 25th. About 15 dance troupes danced along the main Kagurazaka-dori road. The dance is actually the climax of the annual Kagurazaka Matsuri Festival. Also see my YouTube video here.

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Formerly a moat of Edo Castle, this canal stretching from Iidabashi Station to Ichigaya Station along the Chuo Line is noted for cherry blossoms. Also see my YouTube video here.

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The 53rd Koenji Awa Odori folk dance festival was held on Aug. 29-30, 2009 during 6 pm to 9 pm. I went on the 29th, right after Asakusa Samba. This time I went to Shin-Koenji Station on the Marunouchi subway line. Much less crowded than JR Koenji Station. Also see my YouTube video here.

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For five days centering on Aug. 7, a shopping arcade called Asagaya Pearl Center holds the Asagaya Tanabata Matsuri featuring colorful streamers and popular characters festooning the shops. These photos were taken in Aug. 2009. Also see my YouTube video here.

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Held on the last weekend in Aug., Koenji's Awa Odori dance festival is perhaps the biggest one outside Tokushima, where it originated. In the evenig, over 50 dance troupes parade along the route around JR Koenji Station. These photos were taken mainly in 2005 and a few in 2004. Also see the dance formation video at YouTube and the taiko drum video at YouTube.

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This is the 50th Koenji Awa Odori Dance held on Aug. 26-27, 2006 from 6 pm to 9 pm.

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Tokyo's latest and tallest attraction is under construction and rising fast. By April 2010, it has become taller than the old Tokyo Tower at 338 meters. Near Oshiage Station, the tower is instantly recognizable and an awesome sight to behold.

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The Kokugikan arena is where three of the six grand sumo tournaments are held. Built in 1985, it is a spacious, well-designed arena. See photos of what's inside as well as a sumo tournament. More sumo photos here.

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Adjacent to Sumida River, Ryogoku is best known for sumo with the Kokugikan, Eko-in temple where sumo started, Lord Kira's estate, and other places of interest.

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In Feb., priests at this small temple splash cold water on themselves for 30 min. Near Honjo-Azumabashi Station on the Toei Asakusa Line or JR Kinshicho Station on the Sobu Line.

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Huge park in western Tokyo with wide-open spaces, pond with rowboats, a variety of flowers including cherry blossoms, a Japanese garden, and museum. Used to be part of Tachikawa Air Force Base. Park established in 1975 to commemorate Emperor Showa's 50th year of his reign.

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With a population of over 170,000, Tachikawa is an art town with many public art works in the open.

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Ueno Park is one of Japan's most famous parks. Especially famous for cherry blossoms and national museums.

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Part of Ueno Park, Shinobazu Pond is also a pleasant spot for cherry blossoms and lotus flowers.

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One of Tokyo's crown jewels for tourism, the ever-popular Asakusa district still retains the old-style atmosphere of Tokyo. It is blessed with Tokyo's most famous temple, major festivals, and convenient publicc transportation. Asakusa Station is the nearest subway station on the Ginza and Toei Asakusa Lines. These photos are taken from various Asakusa albums.

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Along Sumida River near Asakusa is Sumida Park. Most famous for cherry blossoms which are also lit up at night. It is not as crowded as Ueno Park. Sumida Park also extends across the river in Sumida Ward with another row of cherries along the river.

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The 37th Otsuka Awa Odori folk dance festival was held on Aug. 26, 2009. About 15 awa odori dance troupes, mostly from Otsuka or Toshima Ward, paraded along a short course in front of Otsuka Station on the Yamanote Line in Tokyo. Despite being held for 37 years already, this awa odori is little known in Tokyo. Also see my YouTube video here.

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On the northern half of the Yamanote Line, Sugamo is famous for the Jizo-dori arcade where many senior citizens gather, and the Togenuki Jizo temple. It is the Harajuku for the elderly.

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The bj-league pro basketball league held its final and championship game for the 2009-2010 season on May 23, 2010 at Ariake Coliseum in Tokyo. It was Osaka Evessa vs. Hamamatsu Higashi-Mikawa Phoenix. Special appearance by the Golden State Warrior Girls from California.

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The 4th Tokyo Marathon with 32,000 runners was held on Feb. 28, 2010. I watched it at the finish line at Tokyo Big Sight when the winner came in. This is a massive collection costumed runners. Also see my YouTube video here.

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During the weekend of Dec. 27-28, 2008, bj-league pro basketball team Tokyo Apache played against the Toyama Grouses at Ariake Colliseum in Koto Ward, Tokyo. The first and last place teams played well. Many of these photos were shot from behind the hoop. Cheerleaders also added to the entertainment.

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Tokyo Apache is Tokyo's pro basketball team in the bj League. One of their home courts is the Ariake Colliseum in Koto Ward. On Nov. 29, 2008, I went to see them play against Ryukyu Golden Kings from Okinawa.

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The 2nd Tokyo Marathon and Japan's largest marathon with over 30,000 runners. The majority completed the course within 7 hours between 9:10 am at Shinjuku and 4:10 pm at Tokyo Big Sight. I watched it at the starting line in Shinjuku, the Shinagawa U-turn, Imperial Palace, and the finish line at Tokyo Big Sight. Photographed many great costumes worn by runners. Also see my video at YouTube.

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The 1st Tokyo Marathon and Japan's largest marathon ever with over 30,000 runners. The majority (96.7%) completed the course within 7 hours between 9:10 am at Shinjuku and 4:10 pm at Tokyo Big Sight. Two-time Olympic medalist Arimori Yuko also ran in her last marathon. It was awesome, and I watched it at Ginza, Asakusa, and the finish line at Tokyo Big Sight.　Also see the video at YouTube.

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All-Japan Judo Championships held on April 29, 2005 at the Budokan in Tokyo. Winner was Keiji Suzuki who was also the Olympic judo champion in Athens in 2004.

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On June 6, 2004, the Athens Olympic Torch Relay came through Tokyo as it has been doing at all cities in the world which had held a Summer Olympics. I chased the flame for Athens at several points in Tokyo.

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The Japan Cup Triathlon was held on Oct. 24, 2004 at Odaiba, Tokyo. It started at 8:10 am with the women swimming 1.5 km, cycling 40 km, and running 10 km. Then it was the men's turn. Also see the video at YouTube.

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The Japan Grand Prix International Orchid Festival 2010 was held during Feb. 13-21, 2010. The world's largest orchid show at Tokyo Dome shows not only flowers, but orchid-related artwork, fragrances, and orchid shops. This was its 20th anniversary.

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Held every 2 years at Makuhari Messe in Makuhari, Chiba, the Tokyo Motor Show for passenger cars and motorcycles is one of Japan's largest and most popular trade shows. In 2005, it was held from Oct. 22 to Nov. 6 and over 1.5 million attended.

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A lowrider car show is held six times a year in major cities. The Japan Tour starts and ends in Makuhari Messe in Makuhari, Chiba. The show featured numerous lowrider vintage cars as well as an impressive hydraulics competition where cars "hop." These photos were taken at the last show of 2008 in Makuhari Messe on Nov. 23, 2008. Also see my YouTube video here. For the schedule of this year's lowrider show, see their Web site.

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Held at Tokyo Big Sight every March, the Photo Imaging Expo is Asia's largest camera trade show. You can find film and digital cameras and accessories, large-format cameras, photo studio equipment, and minilabs. All the big names are there: Canon, Nikon, Epson, FujiFilm, etc. Some pictures from PIE 2005 are also included.

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Japan is a leading maker of robots of all kinds, humanoid, industrial, and toys. Robotics shows and contests are popular. The Honda showroom in Tokyo offers ASIMO shows every day. In fall 2007, two large robotics fairs also opened. The Great Robot Exhibition was held at the National Museum of Nature and Science in Ueno during Oct. 23, 2007 to Jan. 27, 2008. And the 2007 International Robot Exhibition was held at Tokyo Big Sight during Nov. 28-Dec. 1, 2007. Also see my YouTube video here.

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The 5th Tokyo Anime Fair was held during March 23-26, 2006. It is Japan's largest anime fair with over 220 animation-related companies and organizations showing their stuff at Tokyo Big Sight.

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