If you visit Shizuoka, you absolutely have to try SAWAYAKA!
It’s a Shizuoka-only hamburger steak chain, and there’s always a long line, so getting a seat can be tough. Once the hamburger steak arrives, the staff helps finish it at the table. The sizzling sound from the hot iron plate is seriously mouthwatering.
Even though it was my first visit, I had already researched my own way of eating it. I asked the staff not to pour the sauce while cooking it. That way, I could enjoy the natural flavor of the meat and also get the doneness more to my liking.
The patty itself is already seasoned, so it was still delicious even without any sauce. And when you want to switch up the flavor, the spicy sauce at the table is a perfect match! When the drinks are served, you can even clink glasses with the staff. Before, during, and after the meal, you can really feel how friendly the service is. The whole dining atmosphere is cheerful and fun, and I highly recommend it!
Sawayaka Charcoal-Grilled Restaurant Kosai Hamanako | Review by 金己田
Other Reviews by 金己田
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Universal Citywalk Osaka
This mixed-use commercial complex is located along the street connecting the large theme park "Universal Studios Japan" and JR Universal-City Station. The streets are filled with an American flavor, creating an extraordinary atmosphere fitting for the entrance to the park.
Since we were going into Universal Studios first thing the next morning, we stayed at a hotel near the park the day before.
This pedestrian street in front of the hotel has lots of chain restaurants, plus Takoyaki Park. Since we were already in Osaka, of course we had to get a serving!
You can also pick up merchandise at the official Universal Studios store, so it’s basically the perfect place to stock up before heading into the park! -
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Ginza-Dori street
Ginza-Dori street is one of Japan's most prestigious shopping districts with a sense of history and elegance. It is lined with department stores and high-end brand stores, rivaling New York's Fifth Avenue and London's Oxford Street.
Ginza is a symbol of Tokyo’s prosperity, and just about every major brand has a flagship store here. I remember seeing online a while ago that Ginza is the ultimate destination for shopping in Tokyo, and that really feels true.
During the day, the streets have a grand and elegant atmosphere. But at night, standing at the Ginza 4-chome intersection, you feel not only its history, but also a kind of glamour that belongs uniquely to Tokyo. -
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Ueno Park
Ueno Park, officially known as "Ueno Onshi Park," is located in Taito Ward, Tokyo. Managed by the Tokyo Metropolitan Construction Bureau, the park spans an impressive area of 530,000 square meters and has a rich history.
Ueno Park is one of Tokyo’s best-known cherry blossom spots, but I didn’t realize until I got there just how lively the hanami atmosphere would be.
Under the fully blooming cherry trees, people were everywhere—sitting on the ground, drinking, and hanging out. Around us were the sounds of food stalls and stage performances, and it honestly felt like a festival. It really showed me how passionate Japanese people are about cherry blossom viewing.
If you’re coming to Tokyo for cherry blossoms with a group of friends and want to drink, celebrate, and experience the energetic hanami culture, this would definitely be my top pick. -
