If you also love traditional Japanese architecture, you have to visit the Kikuya Family Residence in Hagi—one of Japan’s oldest and best-preserved merchant homes.
The black roof tiles, white walls, diamond-pattern details, and wooden latticework are beautifully crafted. The simple facade has a nostalgic charm, and even after six centuries, it still feels elegant and captivating!
As you wander through the little alleys outside the walls, you’ll see all kinds of light and shadow playing across them. And if you look down, you might even spot little crabs leisurely walking in the canal. The Kikuya Family Residence in Hagi is such a wonderful place!
Kikuya Yokocho Alley | Review by 周黛西
Other Reviews by 周黛西
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Kinkaku-ji
During the Muromachi Period, the 3rd Ashikaga shogun, Yoshimitsu, made an abode in this temple called Kitayamadono. It was named as Rokuon-ji after the posthumous name of Yoshimitsu. He had also built Shokoku-ji Temple, and Rokuon-ji, his retirement home, was turned into a branch temple of Shokoku-ji.
When visiting Kyoto’s famous Rokuon-ji Temple, the must-see highlight is its golden Shariden, Kinkaku-ji.
Kinkaku-ji is world-famous for its exterior covered in gold leaf. Surrounded by Kyokochi Pond, the temple’s golden reflection shimmering on the water is dazzling and breathtaking. The “upside-down Kinkaku” reflection is one of Kyoto’s most iconic sights, and it was registered as a World Cultural Heritage Site in 1994.
Kinkaku-ji offers different scenery in every season, and the constant crowds are proof of its popularity as a tourist destination. I hope to visit again in winter to see the Snow Kinkaku. -
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Universal Studios Japan
Universal Studios Japan, nicknamed “USJ”, is a large-scale theme park with entertainment for everyone, both children and adults alike. The park is separated into different areas, each with a different theme from popular titles across the world.
The immersive experience at The Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal Studios Japan begins the moment you pass through the stone entrance and step into Hogsmeade and Hogwarts Castle. The music and scenery are recreated with amazing detail, and even if you are not familiar with the series, the magical atmosphere is truly impressive.
The park was absolutely packed, and every attraction had a long line. Among them, Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey stood out, combining 4K visuals with real mechanical motion to create an exciting and realistic Quidditch and magical chase experience. The blend of virtual and physical effects was especially memorable. I would definitely recommend it for families and Harry Potter fans. -
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Kobe Harborland
Kobe Harborland, lined with multiple large scale multi-facility complexes, is the name of the area by the coast covering approximately 18.5 Hectares. One of the commercial complexes, “Kobe Brick Warehouse, HARBOR STORES”, was originally a cargo warehouse built in the late 1890s.
This place brings together international cuisine, large shopping malls, and an amusement park, so it feels really lively.
Soft music plays, colorful neon lights twinkle, and the sea breeze gently blows...
Everywhere you look, people are having a great time. -
