Charlie ChanChan's Reviews

Harmonica Alley

Located just outside the north exit of Kichijoji Station, this small alley is home to about 100 shops. The name “Harmonica Alley” is said to come from the fact that the line of small storefronts looks like the holes on a harmonica. Many of the shops sell delicious things to eat, so it’s a great place to stroll while sampling some of the delights. At night, red lanterns light the many izakayas (Japanese style pubs), which are a popular place to have a drink.

Kichijoji, Mitaka
Shopping Streets

18 Dec 2025 See More

The alley is super narrow, but the vibe is really lively. It totally has that Showa-era feel—like stepping into old Tokyo.

ekie

Located just beyond the ticket gates, this commercial facility is easy to stop by between sightseeing plans or while transferring trains. ekie, directly connected to the south exit of Hiroshima Station, brings together restaurants and souvenir shops, making it a convenient place to visit at the start or end of your trip.

Hiroshima
Commercial Buildings

18 Dec 2025 See More

It’s not really a big shopping mall. It’s more focused on food and buying souvenirs.
You can pretty much see everything in about an hour.

Keio Mogusaen

Keio Mogusaen is a Tokyo garden where visitors can enjoy seasonal blooms and foliage year-round. Loved since the Edo period, this expansive 26,000㎡ garden features traditional Japanese elements like thatched-roof buildings, bamboo fences, and tea huts, embodying the essence of Japanese beauty.

Tachikawa, Hachioji, Machida
Parks & Gardens

30 Jun 2025 See More

The garden isn't huge, but the ups and downs are cleverly designed, so it's never boring to walk around. There's a little tea house inside where you can enjoy matcha while taking in the view—the atmosphere is just perfect.

Kurashiki Ivy Square

The main factory of the Kurashiki Spinning Mill, founded in 1889, has been turned into a tourism and cultural complex, the Kurashiki Ivy Square. The facility is a reproduction of a British factory. The replicated red brick buildings with lush green ivy vine presents a classical but modern atmosphere.

Okayama
Experiences Facilities

22 Mar 2021 See More

A lush, green plaza with not just a memorial hall but also a hotel where you can stay.

HAYASHI GENJURO SHOUTEN

The Kurashiki Bikan Historical Quarter where the good old townscape of Kurashiki continues to this day. Hayashi Genjuro Shouten located within the Kurashiki Bikan Historical Quarter is a multi-facility complex with a range of “affluent lifestyle” businesses related to “clothing, food and shelter”.

Okayama
Commercial Buildings

22 Mar 2021 See More

There are tons of creative souvenirs here, all really unique. If you love artsy stuff, this is the place for you. They also serve food, and there’s a rooftop café with a great view.