Bordered by the Pacific Ocean, Tokyo is so vast and diverse that it is considered not as a single city, but a collection of several districts including lzu Island and the Ogasawara Islands. Having survived the Great Kanto earthquake in 1923 and World War II, perhaps it is no surprise that the Tokyo skyline is dominated by skyscrapers built in the modern era. This fascinating metropolis offers its travellers a diversified array of entertainment from the historical Imperial Palace to Tokyo Disneyland. Tokyo is filled with restaurants which will offer you menus from around the world .Although this high-tech city runs on the latest gadgets and inventions, its roots still lie in its proud Japanese heritage and culture.
One such intriguing cultural art form is the making of kites. Kites have been an integral part of the Japanese culture since ancient days. Kites are referred to as “tako” (octopus) or “ika” (cuttlefish) in Japanese due to their resemblance to these creatures. In Japan, kites have played a number of roles through the years. They have been used in military operations as well as entertainment for the affluent. However, kites have always been a part of religious ceremonies, used as a carrier of messages to the gods, to ask for protection and also as an offering of gratitude. There is even a Kite Museum dedicated to the art of kite making which clearly demonstrates the significance of these light and beautiful rulers of the sky in the culture of Japan.
The Kite Museum of Tokyo is situated right in the heart of the city occupying an entire floor of an expansive building. Once you enter this enchanting place you will find kites ranging from stamp size to 2 metres high. You will find kites full of brilliant colours depicting samurai warriors, ancient characters, animals, flora and various other highly creative models. The museum has a vast collection of kites from the whole extent of Japan and also from other Asian countries, particularly China, as well. The Kite Museum mainly exhibits creations from prominent contemporary kite makers of Japan. A unique aspect of this interesting museum is that even the ceiling is used as a display area for kites. In addition, there is a special section of the museum dedicated entirely to Teizo Hashimoto the late Edo kite artiste with a wax figure depicting him at work. And if you experience the desire to build a kite of your own there is a special class on kite construction which will instruct you regarding the making of a simple kite in 30 minutes.
If you are planning on staying in Tokyo on a leisurely holiday which includes some kite flying then you might opt for a Tokyo serviced apartment. Accommodation in Tokyo does not get better than at the Citadines Shinjuku Tokyo with its range of service apartments Tokyo. At this property you will be treated with the highest degree of hospitality at a prime location within the heart of the city.
