王小鈞's Reviews Page 19/25

Chion-ji Temple

Known as one of Japan’s Three Great Monju Temples, alongside Abe Monju-in in Nara and Kameoka Monju in Yamagata (or Kinkaku Komyo-ji in Kyoto), Chion-ji enshrines Monju Bosatsu, the Bodhisattva of Wisdom. The temple’s origins are said to trace back to ancient times, and it is renowned for its long history, including being featured in Sesshu’s National Treasure, Amanohashidate-zu.

• Kyoto
• Shrines & Temples

For a trip to northern Kyoto, I recommend visiting Amanohashidate, one of Japan’s Three Scenic Views, and the nearby Chion-ji Temple on the same day. Chion-ji enshrines Monju Bosatsu, a symbol of wisdom, and is a famous temple where many students pray for academic success. The most unique part is the cute little fan-shaped omikuji fortunes. Seeing them hung all over the pine trees is really distinctive and makes for great photos.

I visited on a weekday, so there weren’t many tourists. Without the crowds, strolling around the temple grounds felt especially relaxing, and I could quietly enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of this historic temple. After worshipping, I walked over to Amanohashidate to take in the magnificent scenery. It was a wonderful way to experience both natural beauty and history in one trip, making my Kyoto visit even more fulfilling and leaving me with many great memories.

Chikuzen Ichinomiya Sumiyoshi Shrine

There are 2129 shrines which enshrines the grand god of Sumiyoshi. This shrine is said to be the very first of them. The god housed here is written in the Record of Ancient Matters. As the Shikinai Myojin-taisha and the first shrine in the Chikuzen Region, it has 1800 years of history.

• Fukuoka
• Shrines & Temples

On the last day of my trip to Fukuoka, since I had a late-night flight, I made time in the morning to take a walk around Sumiyoshi Shrine. Away from the lively Hakata area, it felt much quieter and more relaxed. The green approach to the shrine made me feel calm as I walked.

I didn’t have much planned that day, but that slower pace ended up being the most comfortable way to wrap up the trip. If you’re leaving Fukuoka on a late flight like I was, I highly recommend adding this spot to your last-day walk. It’s a lovely way to end the journey with a peaceful heart and good memories.

Nishijima Horticultural Park

The “Fruit and Floral Paradise” of Nishijima Horticultural Park attracts many tourists. Their "fruit ticket" includes tasting high-quality watermelon and other melon varieties all year round. Enjoy the beautiful blooming flowers and tour the melon greenhouses.

• Kochi
• Experiences Facilities

One of the things I was most looking forward to on my trip to Shikoku was strawberry picking at Nishijima Horticultural Park. Unfortunately, there weren’t enough strawberries that day, so they couldn’t open it for picking. I was a little disappointed.

But I changed gears and tried their super popular melon ice cream instead. It was rich, sweet, and so refreshing—a nice little unexpected surprise! I also bought a small box of fresh strawberries to enjoy back at the hotel. Each one was bright red, plump, fragrant, sweet-tart, and juicy. Seriously delicious.

Even though I didn’t get to pick strawberries myself this time, it still became a different kind of lovely travel memory. I’m looking forward to trying again next time!

Ine no Funaya

Ine Bay is located in the northern part of Kyoto Prefecture, where fishing has been thriving since ancient times. Along the coast, there is a row of buildings called "Funaya," whose first floor is connected to the sea as a storage area for boats used for fishing.

• Kyoto
• Tourist Attractions

When visiting Kyoto, there’s more than just old temples and charming streets. This time, we made a special trip to Ine Bay in northern Kyoto Prefecture, and the scenery was so soothing the moment we arrived!

The traditional “funaya” boat houses lined up along the bay are really unique. The first floor is for boats, and the second floor is living space. The whole village sits between the mountains and the sea, almost like time has stopped in an old fishing village. The calm water, neat wooden buildings, and relaxed, peaceful atmosphere made me want to slow down and really enjoy it all.

It does take some time to get to Ine, but once you see this picture-perfect ocean view, it feels totally worth it! If you love Japan’s natural scenery and slow travel, Ine Bay is definitely a must-visit spot near Kyoto ❤️

Amanohashidate Kasamatsu Park

Located in Miyazu City, Kyoto Prefecture, Amanohashidate Kasamatsu Park is a breathtaking viewpoint that overlooks Amanohashidate, one of Japan's Three Scenic Views. Situated on the slopes of Mt. Nariai at an altitude of 130 meters, the park is easily accessible via the Amanohashidate Cable Car or lift from Fuchu Station.

• Kyoto
• Parks & Gardens

When we visited Amanohashidate, one of Japan’s Three Scenic Views, we not only enjoyed the amazing “matanozoki” view, but also made time to walk around Kasamatsu Park on the north side. It’s not just an observation spot for the scenery—there are also lots of little surprises that are great for families with kids.

The park has plenty of rides and activities that children enjoy, each paid for separately. Once the kids saw them, they couldn’t stop—one activity after another, with laughter the whole way 😂. Adults can take in the beautiful view of Amanohashidate at a relaxed pace, while kids have their own fun too. It’s a nice spot that balances great scenery with family-friendly enjoyment.

I originally thought we were just coming here to take photos and enjoy the view, but it unexpectedly became one of the happiest stops for the kids. Adding a little playtime like this to the trip made the memories even richer ❤️

Amanohashidate

Amanohashidate is one of Japan’s Top 3 Scenic Spots, along with the bay of Matsushima in Miyagi Prefecture and Miyajima in Aki, Hiroshima Prefecture. Across the length of this 3.6km landbridge you’ll find 5000 pine trees planted across its 20m-170m wide shores.

• Kyoto
• Nature Spots

I finally got to see Amanohashidate, one of Japan’s three most scenic spots, with my own eyes. The view truly lives up to its nickname, “the bridge to heaven” ✨
The weather was beautiful that day. Looking down from the mountaintop observatory, the sea and sky blended together, with the long, narrow sandbar lined with pine trees stretching across the water. It was genuinely moving.

The most unique thing to try here is the “matanozoki” view, where you bend over and look between your legs! They say it makes the scenery look like a flying dragon in the sky. The pose is a little embarrassing, but it’s worth trying for the view.

When I visited in May, it was pretty windy up on the mountain and noticeably chilly, so I recommend bringing a jacket. Taking the cable car up for the view, then slowly strolling around and enjoying the peaceful atmosphere, makes this a fantastic day trip near Kyoto!

Pokémon Center MEGA TOKYO & Pikachu Sweets

Pokémon, the pocket monsters phenomenon loved across the world. In addition to the Pokémon Centers in 11 cities across Japan, the official plushies and merchandise can also be found at Pokémon Center locations worldwide. Inside you’ll find original pokémon goods, games and consoles to shop.

• Ikebukuro
• Miscellaneous Goods

I’ve gotten really into Pikmin lately, so on this trip to Tokyo I made a special stop at Pokémon Center MEGA TOKYO to look for cute Pikmin and Pokémon merch.

The moment I walked in, I couldn’t help but gasp. The entire floor was packed with Pokémon items, from plushies and stationery to everyday goods and limited-edition products. There was so much to see that I wanted to stop and browse every corner.

I originally thought I’d “just take a look,” but once I saw all the adorable items, I totally gave in. My shopping basket kept getting fuller and fuller. It’s such a fun place to shop, but definitely dangerous for your wallet.

If you love Pokémon or Pikmin, this is an absolute must-visit on a trip to Tokyo. You’ll definitely be going home with a huge haul!

AFURI Ebisu

Located just a 3-minute walk from Ebisu Station, this stylish ramen shop specializes in tanrei-kei (light and refined) ramen, crafted with pure natural spring water from Mount Afuri in Kanagawa and a carefully simmered blend of chicken and seafood. AFURI has expanded from Tokyo to Kanagawa, Hokkaido, and even overseas in the U.S. and Hong Kong. The Ebisu branch is open until 5 a.m. and operates as a completely cashless restaurant.

• Meguro, Ebisu
• Ramen

If you’re traveling to Tokyo and love ramen, you absolutely can’t miss the super popular AFURI Ramen.

My top recommendation this time is their yuzu shio ramen. It’s light, refreshing, and full of depth. The hot broth has a rich chicken aroma with a gentle hint of yuzu, and it never feels greasy. The more you sip, the smoother it gets!

The noodles have just the right texture, and the aroma of the seared chashu makes every bite unforgettable. It was so good that before heading home, I even went to a convenience store to buy AFURI instant ramen so I could bring a little taste of Tokyo back with me.

If you like lighter-style ramen, AFURI’s yuzu shio ramen is definitely worth adding to your Tokyo must-eat list!

CIAL Yokohama

“CIAL Yokohama” occupies the floors B1 to B3 of “JR Yokohama Tower”, a station building directly connected to the West Exit of JR Yokohama Station. It is a shopping center that meets a wide range of gourmet needs, with the first basement floor selling high-quality sweets, prepared foods, and grocery items; the second basement floor has a fresh food market selling mainly fresh foods; the third basement floor has a food hall that can be used as a favorite stopover space.

• Yokohama
• Commercial Buildings

If you’re staying near Yokohama Station, CIAL Yokohama is a food paradise you’ll want to visit every day! You can find everything here, from breakfast, lunch, and dinner to desserts. There are all kinds of Japanese food, ramen, cafés, and souvenirs.

The basement floors also have a supermarket, which makes it super convenient to buy fruit, prepared foods, drinks, or late-night snacks. You really don’t have to worry about finding something to eat.

It’s easy to get to and fun to browse around. Whether you’re traveling independently or staying near Yokohama Station, I highly recommend adding this place to your daily must-visit list!

I'm donut ? Nakameguro

I’m donut ? is a specialty takeout donut shop located under the elevated railway tracks, just a 10-second walk from the east exit of Nakameguro Station. You’ll know it by the chic white-themed and glass-paned exterior that just begs you to watch each delicious round fry up close.

• Nakameguro, Daikanyama
• Light Meals

When you come to Japan, you can’t miss the wildly popular I’m donut ?! There are huge lines every day, especially on weekends when the line stretches outside the shop, but it’s honestly worth it for that first bite.

The texture isn’t dense like a traditional donut. It’s fluffy, slightly moist, and melts in your mouth. Every flavor has its own personality, so it’s no surprise it went viral online.

If you’re planning to pass by, be sure to set aside time to wait in line and try this dreamy donut that you’ll fall in love with after one bite!