Those who live and work in Itabashi are hesitant when it comes to tallying up the highlights of this northwestern Tokyo ward. "There's really nothing remarkable here," says ballerina and homemaker Chieko Muraoka, 37. "It's quiet and small-scale, but we like it that way."

Ogre of Endurance in the grounds of Jorenji Temple  Chinese goose
in Ukima Park
The "Ogre of Endurance" in the grounds of Jorenji Temple and a Chinese goose in Ukima Park KIT NAGAMURA PHOTOS

And the ward's unique features? "You can still find cabbage patches!" offers up Gabriel Lee, 35, who has been working in Itabashi for several years, "and parking is really cheap."

How come no one mentions Itabashi's Jorenji Temple, home of the third largest seated Buddha in all of Japan?

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