An Illustrated Japan / Aichi / Culture & Tradition
Inuyama Festival — Karakuri Dolls in Aichi – A traditional cultural event featuring ornate festival floats and intricately crafted karakuri (mechanical) dolls; the dedicated puppet performances are highly praised internationally. In Tokyo/Kanto, big chains and independents coexist, price from ¥100 to luxury. Seasonal twist: cherry blossoms, summer matsuri, winter illum, pedestrian paradise on weekends. 2h walk yields shopping + rest. Etiquette: keep to side for photos, don't block registers, use cashless to speed. Access: Yamanote, metro, 5-min walk from nearest station, Suica tap.