Osaka’s nights are lit up by the neon of Dotonbori. Crowds flow through nonstop, and the lively, buzzing atmosphere feels like a city that never sleeps. It’s a symbol of Osaka and the city’s energy.
Dotonbori | Review by 金己田
Other Reviews by 金己田
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Atami is nestled between the mountains and the sea. Walking along the hillside roads gave me a familiar feeling, like being in Beitou. But the closer I got to the shore, the more it felt like a vacation destination.
Exploring along the coast was so relaxing. The laid-back atmosphere made me want to stop and just sit on the beach, zone out, and listen to the sound of the waves. It was incredibly soothing. -
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Ise Jingu is said to be a place every Japanese person should visit at least once in their lifetime, and I’ve been there twice!
The first time, I underestimated the travel time and could only rush through the Inner Shrine. This time, I gave it another try and successfully visited both the Inner Shrine and the Outer Shrine.
Travel guides say the proper order is to visit the Outer Shrine first and then the Inner Shrine, so we took the Kintetsu train from Toba to Iseshi Station. As soon as you exit the station, you can see a huge torii gate, and straight ahead is the approach to the Outer Shrine. There are quite a few tasteful shops lining both sides of the path. On the shrine grounds, the irises by Magatama Pond had already started to bloom. Walking along the gravel path surrounded by greenery on both sides, we finally arrived at the main shrine to pray.
After that, we took a bus to the Inner Shrine. The Isuzu River was as clear as ever and left an unforgettable impression. Finishing my visit to the Inner Shrine truly made up for the regret I had carried for years. -
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As soon as we got in, we headed straight to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter. Seeing Hogsmeade from the books and movies brought to life right in front of us was honestly so moving.
Of course we had lunch at the Three Broomsticks too. Eating by the lake with Hogwarts in view, plus a cup of Butterbeer, was such a treat!
The parade is also something you absolutely shouldn’t miss. As soon as the music starts, you just want to dance along. The energetic dancers lead the floats forward, and everyone is so into it, putting on an amazing show for the crowd. Halfway through, guests are allowed to get up close to the floats and dance with the Minions, and it really feels like you’re part of the world yourself! -
