王小鈞's Reviews Page 16/36

Osaka Tenmangu is a famous shrine in Osaka and a place many students visit before taking exams. It enshrines Sugawara no Michizane, the “god of learning,” so throughout the year, many people come to pray for success on exams and progress in their studies.

The shrine’s famous Daishogun Shrine is said to be a power spot, adding to the solemn and peaceful atmosphere of the grounds. Unfortunately, some areas were under renovation during this visit, so I couldn’t fully appreciate the shrine’s appearance, which was a little disappointing. Still, walking around, I could feel its rich history. I hope to visit again and see all of Osaka Tenmangu next time.

Nagai Botanical Garden is much bigger than I expected. As soon as you walk in, it feels like you've temporarily left central Osaka, and all the greenery is very relaxing. The grounds have different gardens with roses, tree peonies, peonies, and more, offering different scenery in every season. It's great for taking a walk, taking photos, or simply unwinding.

I was most interested in the "Historical Forest," which recreates how Osaka's forests looked from tens of millions of years ago to the present. Walking around and looking at everything feels a bit like an adventure. If you're visiting Osaka and want somewhere you can relax for an hour or two without rushing, I highly recommend adding Nagai Botanical Garden to your itinerary. It's really peaceful!

I originally thought it would just be a sightseeing bus ride, but the moment I looked forward to most turned out to be when it plunged straight into the river! Watching the bus go from land right onto the water really makes you want to gasp along with everyone else.

Along the way, you pass famous sights like Osaka Castle and Osaka City Hall. Seeing Osaka's streets and riverfront from a different perspective feels very refreshing. Especially once you reach the Okawa River, the scenery on both sides and the bridges slowly glide past, really giving you a sense of Osaka as a "city of water."

If it's your first time in Osaka, I highly recommend this experience. You don't have to walk constantly, and you get to discover Osaka from both land and water. It's fun and a little thrilling, and definitely a tour you'll remember.

If your feet are sore from shopping, escape to Nakanoshima and unwind for a while! Surrounded by two rivers, it can make you forget you're still in central Osaka. There are historic buildings on one side and skyscrapers on the other, and the two styles go surprisingly well together. Strolling along the river and enjoying the breeze, you'll see people jogging and walking their dogs, as well as sightseeing boats slowly passing by. Everything feels more relaxed. There's no particular attraction you have to visit—just wander around and take pictures wherever you like. Every corner feels pleasant, and it unexpectedly became the most relaxing stop of the trip.

I had been looking forward to walking around Oasis 21, but it rained that day, so I could only take a quick look while holding an umbrella. That was a bit disappointing.

Even though the weather didn’t cooperate, the glass-roofed Spaceship-Aqua was still distinctive, and the rain gave it a different kind of atmosphere. I’ve heard the nighttime illumination is gorgeous, and you can photograph it together with the nearby Nagoya TV Tower. Unfortunately, I couldn’t stay long this time. I’ll have to come back on a sunny day for a leisurely stroll and take the photos I missed.

This isn’t a place you just stop by—it’s worth making a special trip! It’s a little far from central Tokyo, but once you see the line, you’ll know everyone came for this bowl.

The signature rich seafood tsukemen has incredibly chewy noodles, and the thick seafood dipping broth is so addictive you won’t be able to stop eating. Best of all, you can add more noodles to suit your appetite. Medium, large, and extra-large portions only cost a little more, so you’ll definitely leave full.

The wait felt a bit long, but afterward, all I could think was, “I’m so glad I came—I would’ve regretted missing it!”

While waiting in line, I wondered, “Is it really that good?” After eating, all I can say is: yes, it’s worth it!

The beef at Gyukatsu Kyoto Katsugyu was tender and flavorful. There were so many condiments—wasabi, sansho pepper salt, gyukatsu sauce, and dashi soy sauce. Trying them all felt like a fun tasting challenge.

Dip it in Kyoto-style curry at the end, or mix a soft-cooked egg into your rice for yet another twist. One set meal offers so many flavors that it never gets boring. If you love beef and are visiting Japan, definitely add this place to your list!

The biggest surprise at APA Hotel & Resort Tokyo Bay Makuhari wasn't the room—it was the view!

The room had APA's usual style. It wasn't very spacious, but it was clean, comfortable, and had everything I needed. I recommend choosing a room on a higher floor. You can see Tokyo Bay during the day, and the sparkling city lights at night are so relaxing that you won't want to close the curtains.

After a full day of sightseeing, I headed straight to the public bath to unwind. It instantly revived my exhausted legs so I could get back to exploring the next day. It's a great value for the price and a convenient place to stay if you're attending an exhibition or concert in Makuhari or visiting Tokyo Disney Resort.

If it’s your first time at Lake Kussharo, you have to check out Sunayu! Just dig into the sand by the lake a few times, and hot spring water actually bubbles up. It felt like magic!

Soaking my feet in a natural foot bath I dug myself while relaxing by the lake was incredibly soothing. It’s such a unique experience—not only great for photos, but also a lot of fun. Highly recommend adding it to your Hokkaido itinerary!

How can you visit Sapporo and miss the Sapporo Clock Tower? It’s a little smaller than I expected, but seeing it in person was still charming. The wooden architecture and century-old history really capture the spirit of Hokkaido.

Take a look inside, browse the historical exhibits, and listen to the clock chime on the hour as you soak in the city’s story. You don’t need to spend long here, but it’s definitely worth stopping by for a few photos.