Matsue Castle is absolutely worth making a special trip for.
It is one of only 12 surviving original castle keeps in Japan, and one of the very few designated as a National Treasure—only five castles in the entire country have that status.
Compared with many castles rebuilt in reinforced concrete after the war, the most captivating thing about Matsue Castle is that it has beautifully preserved its original wooden structure from more than 400 years ago, dating back to the early Edo period. That simple, steady, and dignified sense of history is something modern reconstructions simply can’t match.
Matsue Castle | Review by W10B
Other Reviews by W10B
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Yukari by Bankaku Sohonpo
Yukari is a cracker made with shrimp paste which is believed to bring good luck in Japan. Yukari was once presented to Tokugawa Mitsutomo in the Owari domain during the Edo Period and carries on its history and excellence. Using 7 natural shrimps for each cracker, it is carefully roasted in a unique double baking method consistent with the Edo Period.
A must-buy Nagoya souvenir: Bankaku Sohonpo shrimp crackers
I love the luxurious gold tin packaging. Every bite is packed with the rich aroma of grilled shrimp.
Great as a gift or to enjoy all by yourself. -
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AEON MALL Okinawa Rycom
Opened in 2015, this is one of the largest shopping malls in Okinawa Prefecture. The five-story complex houses around 220 shops, including fashion, lifestyle goods, gourmet food, and entertainment facilities. Based on the concept of an “Okinawa Resort Mall,” the mall is filled with attractions and events that let visitors fully experience Okinawa through shopping and dining.
Every time we visit Okinawa, we go to this large shopping mall. We can shop there endlessly, and it even has a Crayon Shin-chan specialty store, Pokémon, and more.
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Ebisenbei no Sato Mihama Main Store
Ebisenbei no Sato Mihama Main Store is a destination dedicated to Aichi’s specialty, ebi senbei-traditional rice crackers made from shrimp paste and potato starch, baked to perfection. Known for their rich shrimp flavor and crispy texture, these treats are beloved by locals and visitors alike.
If you get the chance, definitely shop at the main store. Its shrimp crackers are always listed as a must-buy item in Nagoya and are also sold at the airport. They're delicious and easy to snack on, one after another.
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