Linda Liao's Reviews Page 36/93

Kuroyuri is a famous oden restaurant in Kanazawa, and as an oden fan, of course I had to make a pilgrimage here. The restaurant has a cozy atmosphere. I ordered my favorite basics, including daikon and tofu, and everything was thoroughly soaked in the broth and warm and comforting. They also have hanpen, which is relatively uncommon in Taiwan. It’s a white, fluffy, soft fish paste product that becomes light yet springy when cooked, making it something of a rare find in Taiwan.

Tsutenkaku Tower is a must-see landmark in Osaka’s Shinsekai district. After going up to the observation deck, you can look out over the city of Osaka from above, but what left the deepest impression on me was Billiken, who is enshrined inside. This golden-haired, grinning god of fortune has a pair of especially prominent soles. It’s said that rubbing the soles of his feet and making a wish will bring good luck and fortune, as well as blessings for business prosperity, passing exams, finding a good match, and more.

I arrived at Senagajima in the afternoon and took a leisurely walk along the coast. With the sea breeze gently blowing, everything seemed to slow down. You can enjoy expansive ocean views here, and occasionally see planes flying overhead. Unfortunately, my schedule didn’t allow me to fully enjoy the beautiful sunset. I hope I’ll have a chance to visit again〜

The first impression Heian Jingu Shrine gives is one of grandeur. The enormous vermilion torii gate and brightly colored shrine buildings are very eye-catching, while the spacious white gravel courtyard inside evokes the solemn atmosphere of the Heian period. Heian Jingu Shrine was built in 1895, with its buildings modeled after the Imperial Palace complex of Heian-kyo. Behind them is a shrine garden covering about 30,000 square meters. After visiting in person, I felt that the architecture and gardens each had their own distinctive character, making it a great place for a leisurely stroll.

The moment I walked out of Kanazawa Station, I was immediately struck by the magnificent Tsuzumi-mon Gate! The enormous wooden pillars paired with the transparent glass Motenashi Dome make it instantly recognizable, and it has become Kanazawa’s most iconic city landmark. The gate stands 13.7 meters tall and was inspired by the drums used in Kanazawa’s traditional Noh theater. Its two massive wooden pillars use modern construction techniques, combining traditional charm with a contemporary feel. The Motenashi Dome above was designed around the idea of “holding up an umbrella for travelers,” reflecting Kanazawa’s rainy and snowy climate. On my first visit to Kanazawa, the station itself already made a lasting impression, so it’s no wonder it was selected as one of the world’s most beautiful train stations.

Okinawa’s super-popular Houki Boshi cannelés are irresistible just from the packaging alone! Opening the box feels like stepping into a starry sky—it’s exquisite and dreamy. With the smallest 4-piece box, you can choose different flavors. The mini cannelés are made with brown sugar from Tarama Island, Okinawa. They’re slightly crisp on the outside and moist and soft inside, with a subtle brown sugar aroma. In addition to classic brown sugar, there are many distinctive flavors such as Okinawan milk, pineapple, and coffee. Each one is so tiny and cute that I almost couldn’t bear to eat it!

Shinjuku Gyoen is one of Tokyo’s premier cherry blossom viewing spots, with nearly 1,000 cherry trees of more than 65 varieties planted across its expansive lawns. From the early-blooming kanzakura and Kawazu cherry trees to the final display of Somei Yoshino and double-flowered cherry blossoms, the different varieties bloom one after another. The garden combines Japanese, English landscape, and French formal garden designs, creating enchanting scenery. Every spring, visitors and local residents bring picnic blankets and sit beneath the cherry trees, enjoying food and the romantic views while taking in the feeling of spring in Tokyo.

This Starbucks was designed by master architect Kengo Kuma. Its most striking feature is the use of approximately 2,000 pieces of traditional timber, woven diagonally and extending from the interior to the exterior. The entire building was constructed without a single metal nail. The flowing wooden lines perfectly complement the historical and cultural atmosphere of Dazaifu, blending nature, tradition, and modern architectural aesthetics. It’s an artistic landmark and photo spot you definitely shouldn’t miss when visiting Tenmangu Shrine!

The most unforgettable part of cycling along the Shimanami Kaido is crossing one bridge after another over the sea, with sweeping views of the deep blue water, scattered islands, and distant mountains along the way. This approximately 70-kilometer route connects Onomichi in Hiroshima Prefecture with Imabari in Ehime Prefecture, linking several islands in the Seto Inland Sea. Riding across the bridges with the sea breeze and expansive ocean views is a very special travel experience.

Among the Kitano Ijinkan, Weathercock House is one of the most iconic buildings and a must-visit for many tourists. Built during the Meiji era, it was once the residence of a German trader. Its exterior features red brick and timber construction, while the weathercock on the roof is the building’s most distinctive symbol. Inside, you can see furniture and living spaces left from when foreigners lived there and get a sense of the international culture that gradually developed after the Port of Kobe opened. The architectural details are also worth taking the time to appreciate.