The Tokaikan is a well-preserved former ryokan founded in the early Showa era. Famous master carpenters were commissioned to design each floor, their skills are visible in every single corner of the building—from the wooden crane carving at the entrance to the unique decorations in the guest rooms. The entrance fee is only 200 yen, and for a little extra you can access the onsen baths (on weekends and holidays only). Don't forget to reach the top floor to admire the panoramic view. In addition, there is an exhibition hall displaying the artwork of Kenji Shigeoka, whose sculptures can also be admired throughout the city.
Fun fact: The Tokaikan is the set of the fourth volume of Thermae Romae. If you are a fan of the manga/anime, you should...
Read moreIt's a beautiful place to go visit and see, but isn't a 'top of the list' location to visit. If you have other things to do, do them first.
The history and building is beautiful, but if you're an English speaker, note there is nothing in English and it's a purely visual tour that will take you about 30 minutes to do. The display rooms get repetitive pretty quickly.
There are 4 floors to navigate of steep stairs in slippers as a warning for those who may be unfit or not like heights.
My advice would to just go at night time from the opposite side of the river and look at it from there. If you've ever been to a Ryokan before, this looks the same...
Read moreOne of the popular tourist attraction in Ito. 7 minutes walk from Orange Beach. Very well maintained and priced reasonably. Entry ticket costs 200 yen. Usually takes 1 hour to cherish all the art work and ancient style of living. Don’t forget to visit the topmost floor for a good view and strong wind from the ocean. A reasonable option to stay near Tokaikan is K’s House, it is a Japanese style Inn akin Ryoukan. A hostel type environment with common kitchen and living area. Additional benefits includes indoor Onsen and discounted...
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