Japan is a great place to visit, no doubt. With so many attractions and destinations, you will never run out of things to see. Still, it is a little sad that we won't be able to see some of the cool mainstays that have featured in many of our itineraries this year.

First of all, Kiyomizu-dera, that of the famous wooden deck, is having its main hall undergo renovation until 2020. While Kiyomizu-dera is more than just a nice observation spot for spring and autumn foliage, it nevertheless is a pity that we will not be able to enjoy that view for three years to come.

The Main hall of Kiyomizu-dea will be renovated until 2020

Next is one of the icons of Odaiba, the life-size Gundam statue. The giant robot is being dismantled this March, and then gone will be our favorite landmark there. Odaiba has such futuristic appeal that losing the robot will make it look a little lonely.

Still, one might view this as an opportunity to expand the scope of their itinerary. If you had planned to see Kiyomizu-dera this year, how about checking out the nearby temples of Kodai-ji, Nanzen-ji, or Eikan-do? And even without the robot, there are so many things to see and do in Odaiba, although I have a personal soft spot for Miraikan, the science museum.

Also, at the end of every renovation is a reborn attraction, better than ever. For example, if you had missed out on the carving of the three monkeys in Nikko Tosho-gu last year, you will be pleased to hear that the repair is scheduled to be finished by this March.

Finally, the valley of geysers Owakudani, which have been out of bounds for a while, was recently partially reopened. We hope that we may resume activities soon at our favorite place in Hakone!