PLEASURE BOATS

Happo-en is one of the hidden gems of Tokyo, and you can take a serene rest here from the unending noise of the city. From one of the teahouses, you can stroll through a garden that provides a glimpse into the former way of life in Japan to view the vivid, colorful carp swimming in the pond.

The Japanese restaurant Sakura is a place all lovers of Japan will be thoroughly satisfied, whether they are going for pictures or to dine. Breathtaking views of Tokyo expand before you from the expansive windows, and you feel that you are even higher than the Tokyo Sky Tree, which can be seen far in the distance.

The Sumida Hokusai Museum of Tokyo is a unique, contemporary building where you will not be able to resist taking pictures. Hokusai's works are the representative Ukiyo-e illustrations of the Edo era, and you can particularly understand their appeal from the enchanting woodblock prints. You can see world-famous works, such as his well-known ocean waves, and seeing them in person will undoubtedly leave you exhilarated.

If you want to visit Odaiba, the best way to go is certainly the Hotaluna Sumida River Cruise. The riverboat is gaining widespread attention thanks to its superb design. You can look out on ever changing views of Tokyo both from the upper promenade and within the ship.

Odaiba is a particularly popular spot even within Tokyo. Even so, it does not feel overcrowded, and you can relax and enjoy yourself. One of the most fascinating ways to spend your time is to visit the many unique buildings and sculptures, such as the GUNDAM statue and replica of the Statue of Liberty. There are many restaurants and shops with beautiful views of the Rainbow Bridge. If you ride Odaiba's famous giant Ferris Wheel, you can see the entire area all at a glance.

At the restaurant Hibiki, you can enjoy Japan's famous Hibiki whiskey together with exquisite cuisine. The restaurant provides an elegant, comfortable and relaxed atmosphere. Viewing the endless sea of skyscrapers from the windows will transport you to another dimension.

The Royal Park Hotel located in Shiodome is located right in the center of town, and is the perfect place to enjoy not just convenient, but beautiful Tokyo. The hotel provides impeccable service, and you can quietly enjoy the views from the hotel lounge bar. Staff are also available who speak foreign languages.

Haneda Airport is closer to the city center than Narita International Airport, and if you take the monorail there, you can take in views all around Tokyo. The one hour flight to Okayama is wonderfully relaxing thanks to the conscientious service of the staff. You simply don't have to worry about a thing when you fly with ANA. Their planes are never delayed, the staff is always caring and kind, and they are defined by the first-class service that makes you want to fly with them again and again.

Just like its name states, Kokorozushi is a restaurant where you can feel the true heart of devotion. A professional sushi artisan will welcome with a smile in the simple and warm restaurant. You can choose whether to sit at the counter, or at a table on a tatami mat floor.

Bizen Yaki is one of the special products of Okayama Prefecture, and is also a recognized art of Japan's six ancient kilns. Here you can learn about the techniques polished over hundreds of years by true lovers of pottery.

At the Bizen Osafune Japanese Sword Museum you can learn about the physical power and techniques that swordsmiths put into forging the swords wielded by samurai. The museum provides a wealth of explanations on its historical displays, and both texts and videos are supported in English. You can also view a sword smithing demonstration provided by local artisans. It also goes without saying that the most beautiful swords in Japan are exhibited on the second floor.

Doppo-kan is a wonderful little restaurant. It serves creative, high-quality Japanese cuisine paired with perfectly matching beers.

The Plaza Hotel of Okayama Prefecture is just a short two minute walk from Okayama Korakuen Garden, and you can enjoy beautiful views of the park at breakfast.

If you are in Okayama, you will not want to miss visiting Okayama Korakuen Garden and Okayama Castle. The spacious and highly artistic Okayama Korakuen Garden is impeccably maintained by a master gardener. In the summer, you can cool yourself at the beer garden while taking in the enchanting illumination. Okayama Castle is integrated with the surrounding area, and projects an aura of beautiful art and history. According to legend, the mythical shachi lion-headed carp statues on top of the castle are said to spew water in the event of a fire to extinguish the flames.

You can taste a wide range of skewer dishes from meat, to fish, to vegetables at the restaurant Kushibe Futon. It is located in the center of town and features Japanese décor. The restaurant staff will quickly serve your food, allowing you to have a relaxing, satisfying meal.

The Ohara Museum of Art is one of the most beautiful art museums in the region. Paintings and sculptures crossing both the Eastern and Western spheres are displayed both within and without this Western-style building. The serene interior is extremely spacious, and imbued with the atmospheric charm of a wonderful old Western-style building.

Parlor Fruit Komachi is one of the most fascinating places I visited on this trip, and I definitely recommend visiting! The staff who serve you in kimonos and the manager who entertains tourists are all simply wonderful. The Japanese-style café will take your breath away with its serene, simple beauty, and you can view a delightful bamboo grove from their terrace. The seasonally changing menu is also exquisite. Please do not miss this cafe!

You will want to spend the entire day walking as if you were in a dream in the Kurashiki Bikan Historical Quarter. You can watch willow trees gently sway in the breeze from the countless stone bridges that cross the river. You might not believe the dark wooden frames and white plaster walls of the Namako-style buildings are even part of Japan, but the entire atmosphere is one of an island nation. The many small, unique shops that symbolize Japan are all thriving, and well-loved by the local community. The shadows and brilliant reflections off the water are continuously changing with the ever-shifting sunlight. And while you have to make a small climb to get there, the unique shrine at the center of town will reward you will unforgettable views of the town.

Restaurant KIYÙTEI is a building that symbolizes the fusion of Western and Eastern cultures in the Kurashiki District. Here you can enjoy impeccable service and unforgettably delicious food. As it's located a bit outside the center of town, you can take a break from the bustle, and enjoy a different sort of travel experience than what can be found in the city.

While Okayama is a region that is not well known in Japan, it is definitely worth a visit. Travelling here will allow you to truly learn about traditional Japan. The town that combined old Western culture with Japanese tradition was simply unforgettable. This is a trip recommended for travelers who are not satisfied just by seeing the famous sites everyone already knows about.