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Fantasy-Like Places All Across Japan! Let Your Inner Child Have Fun
Fairy tales and fantasy lands can be found all across Japan; here we visit five places that are sure to make children of all ages happy. These spots are ideal for those traveling with children, or those who would like to see another side of Japan.
Wherever you go in Japan, you are sure to find plenty of temples and shrines, as well as stunning natural sights to both thrill and delight the senses. But if you are looking to escape into more of a fairy tale-like fantasy, then these five places are just the ones for you!
Each location is found in a different part of Japan, which means that they each have their own distinctive charms. Plus, these are all excellent places for those traveling with younger children to check out.
1. Saitama - Akebono Children's Forest Park
From: A Western Fairytale in Saitama - Akebono Children's Forest Park
Akebono Children's Forest Park is located in Hanno, in Saitama prefecture. This cute park, filled with fairy tale-like buildings and amazing gardens, is a popular spot to visit on weekends and holidays. There are small babbling brooks flowing throughout the park, and buildings like the Mushroom House, seen above, are sure to catch the attention of children and kids at heart. Best of all, you can play inside these buildings too!
From: A Western Fairytale in Saitama - Akebono Children's Forest Park
To reach Akebono Children's Forest Park, take the Seibu Ikebukuro Line to Motokaji Station (45 minutes), then walk for 20 minutes, and you'll be at the park. While this may sound like a long walk at first, the natural landscape around you is connected to the park, and will further draw you into its fantastical atmosphere. To learn more about Akebono Children's Forest Park, take a look at A Western Fairytale in Saitama - Akebono Children's Forest Park.
2. Tokyo - Les Grands Arbres Tree House Cafe
From: Les Grands Arbres: The Treehouse Cafe From The "Dear Sister" Series
Fans of Japanese TV are sure to have heard of the hit show "Dear Sister" starring popular actresses Satomi Ishihara and Nao Matsushita. This drama series was popular not only in Japan but in neighboring countries too - and if you recall this series, then you will probably already recognize this cafe.
Although found in the heart of downtown Tokyo, visitors to Les Grand Arbres often remark that it feels more like you are out in the woods than in the city. The tree house and gardens here not only will make your child (or inner child) gasp in awe, but the sweets and drink menu are sure to satisfy as well.
From: Les Grands Arbres: The Treehouse Cafe From The "Dear Sister" Series
Les Grands Arbres is located about a five to ten minute walk down an alley from Hiroo Station, on the Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line, and is only a few minutes by train away from Roppongi, 15 minutes away from Shibuya, and 20 minutes away from Shinjuku Station. Les Grands Arbres: The Treehouse Cafe From The "Dear Sister" Series has more on the menu and sights to enjoy at this fairy tale-like spot in the city.
Writer, translator, designer, weirdo.