A must-see for every boy: the Ninja Castle in Iga Ueno! The castle is located in Iga Ueno between Osaka and Nagoya. The small town is the birthplace for the great Haiku Master, Matsuo Basho, and also celebrates several famous annual festivals.

The Castle itself contains a Ninja museum with hidden walls and various Ninja secrets. Children can participate in the hourly Ninja show and learn some Ninja techniques. A recommendation for children is to start the day by borrowing ninja customs at the Danjiri Parade Museum close by. The clothes can be worn throughout the day around the fortress.

Todaji Temple is the World’s largest wooden building, and it contains a massive Buddha figure. The Temple was completed in year 752, and is a breathtaking experience. The surrounding Nara Park is inhabited by Deers, creating a unique atmosphere. Nara was the oldest capital of Japan (710-784), and is a quiet (but gorgeous) alternative to Kyoto for Tourists. A lot of superlatives, but there are no other ways to describe this place.

A great Sunday destination; the dancing Elvis(es) outside Yoyogi Park at Harajuku:

Matsuo Basho is the great master of Japanese haiku poetry, and his three line poems are obligatory readings in schools all over the world. His most famous poem has been translated into English numerous times, and all the translations are even gathered in a boook. Not bar for a three line poems. A well known translation goes like this:

An old pond!
A frog jumps in-
The sound of water.

Matsuo Basho was born in Iga Ueno, a small village between the cities of Osaka and Nagoya. The village is also known for its Ninja Castle and an annual festival.

A haiku pavillon outside Ueno Castle Town:

The great master (statue at the Matsuo Basho Museum in Ueno Park, Iga Ueno:

Kinkakuji is the most famous part of the Rokuon-ji Temple. The building was previously a gordeous villa. The building is covered with gold-leaf on Japanese lacquer, and is one of the most amazing sights in Kyoto, the former capitol of Japan.

Sunday is the day to experience weddings at Meiji Shrine in Tokyo. Take the subway to Harajuku Station and enjoy the numerous wedding ceremonies in the peaceful environment.