Linda Liao's Reviews Page 9/79

I saw it recommended in a travel guide, so I made a special trip to Jiyuken while visiting Namba, Osaka, to try this classic curry specialty for myself. The curry and white rice are mixed together beforehand, giving it a soy sauce-like color, with a raw egg placed in the middle. It’s completely different from regular curry rice. First, I tried a bite as is, then mixed in the egg yolk. The rich curry gained an eggy flavor and a smoother texture. Finally, I added a little Worcestershire sauce to taste, which gave it even more depth.

A Japanese coworker brought back some Kabaya electrolyte candies to share during a business trip. Each one is small and easy to carry, so you can have one while out in the summer or after exercising to replenish the salt lost through sweating. The lightly salty and sweet flavor isn't too heavy, and they're handy to keep in your bag during hot weather.

If you're in Nakasu, Fukuoka, and want some quality yakiniku, Yakiniku Jin is worth considering. The restaurant specializes in carefully selected Kyushu-raised Kuroge Wagyu, offering everything from common cuts to rare ones. The meat has fine marbling, and a quick grilling brings out its rich flavor. Very satisfying.

Omihachiman is one of my favorite places to see cherry blossoms. If you're also looking for a less crowded spot where you can experience springtime in Japan, I highly recommend visiting Omihachiman. In early April, when the cherry blossoms are in full bloom, you can take a small boat along the waterways and watch the scenery on both banks unfold like a spring painting.

Unlike popular attractions in the city that are always bustling with people, this place has a rare sense of tranquility. The boat moves slowly along, and from time to time you can hear the boatman's melodious calls. With the sunlight shimmering gently on the rippling water, the entire trip has a relaxed, old-fashioned atmosphere. Small bridges cross the water, while the greenery along the banks blends with the pale pink cherry blossoms. Some of the blooming branches even hang down close to the water, and when the breeze blows, their reflections sway gently with the ripples.

There's no need to rush while sitting on the boat. Just quietly taking in the scenery is enough to experience Omihachiman's unique charm as a waterside town. When the cherry blossoms, old streets, river, and spring sunshine all come into view at once, it looks like a scene from a poem or painting.

Odaiba Marine Park is a very popular recreational spot along Tokyo Bay, with a rare sandy beach and expansive ocean views. Walking along the shore, you can see the Rainbow Bridge over Tokyo Bay, boats passing by, and the cityscape across the water. It's especially nice for watching the sunset in the evening.

While shopping and sightseeing in downtown Nagoya, I wanted to find somewhere to take a break, so I stopped by the Chunichi Building on a whim to look for a drink shop. I unexpectedly came across YATAGARASU on B1F. The shop has a simple design with a slightly artsy feel and mainly sells Japanese tea drinks and sweets.

I ordered an iced matcha au lait that day. The fresh aroma of the matcha blended perfectly with the smoothness of the milk. It went down smoothly with a subtle tea fragrance and was refreshing and thirst-quenching.

When visiting Mojiko, Kaikyo Plaza is a convenient place to stop by and shop for souvenirs. There are many specialty stores inside, where you can find everything from Mojiko specialties to regional foods from across Kyushu, such as the classic baked curry, banana sweets, mentaiko, seafood, and famous Fukuoka confections. In addition to food, they also sell unique goods and souvenirs exclusive to Mojiko and the Kanmon Straits, with a wide variety of options.

Stepping into Nagoya Castle feels like being transported back to the Edo period of Tokugawa Ieyasu in an instant! The most impressive sight is the pair of golden shachihoko on the roof, gleaming brilliantly in the sunlight and showcasing the authority and splendor of the Edo shogunate. Walking along the moat, the massive stone walls rise in layers, and the weight of history surrounds you, making it impossible not to admire the extraordinary craftsmanship of the ancient builders.

The most stunning part is the recently restored Honmaru Palace. The moment you step inside, the dazzling gold wall paintings and intricately detailed carvings recreate the luxurious life of the shogun's family. It's breathtakingly beautiful. You may also run into the Nagoya Omotenashi Busho-tai, dressed in armor, whose lively interactions bring history to life. Whether surrounded by cherry blossoms in spring or colorful maple leaves in fall, this is definitely an essential attraction when visiting Nagoya!

While driving from Biei to Asahikawa, consider stopping for a short break at Roadside Station Asahikawa to recharge during your trip. It's a very convenient rest stop for a road trip around Hokkaido. In addition to hot meals, coffee, and other food and drinks, you can buy souvenirs, sweets, and local agricultural products from around Hokkaido. If you're looking for local ingredients or souvenirs, you can browse around before getting back on the road.

Mojiko Retro is perfect for a leisurely walk. Along the way, you can see many Western-style houses and historic buildings that retain the architectural styles of the Meiji and Taisho periods, including Mojiko Station, the Former Moji Mitsui Club, and the Former Osaka Shosen Building. As you stroll through the area, the retro Western-style buildings and harbor views create the feeling of stepping back in time. If you want to explore all the main attractions, it's best to set aside at least half a day. You can also enjoy curry rice and shop for souvenirs.