Located in the town of Ikaho is the Ikaho Toy, Doll and Car Museum which wifey and I visited a while back.
One thing that has obviously helped me learn more about Japanese culture is having a fair command of the lingo. Another thing that I've been very interested in of late is Japan's history and by understanding more of Japan's past, I feel that I can enjoy more of this wonderful culture - especially as we are exposed to historical events and settings in anime, games and manga.
The museum is not only filled with toys and dolls dating back to the Edo period (1603 - 1868), one can also find many classic cars dating back to the Showa period too (1926 - 1989). Many passages and rooms have been done up to replicate what buildings looked like back in the Showa period. There are also music, posters and other bits n pieces from the past too.
The museum is located at the address below - its in the middle of nowhere so you will need a car or be familiar with local transport - or ask a local friend.
If you have a Tardis or Stargate handy then punch in the coordinates 36.4641, 138.96922 and set the time to 2011.05.11.12.12.12
Other details of how to get there are listed here.
群馬県北群馬郡吉岡町上野田2145
[gmap=36.4641, 138.96922]
The first toys I played with as a wee lad were of the Starwars variety - I remember owning this!
What sort of toys were the first that you played with?
And if you are looking for more places to visit in Japan - listed below desu.
One of my fave retro idols - Mako Ishino ( 石野真子 )
