We took the train to Himeji Castle early in the morning. Since the crowds were still light, we could really enjoy this beautiful, snow-white World Heritage Site.
After visiting the castle, we stopped by the nearby Himeji City Zoo. It’s not a large zoo, but there were surprisingly quite a few animals. You can also enjoy views of Himeji Castle while strolling around, so it’s great for a family trip.
In the afternoon, we slowly walked back toward Himeji Station and browsed the shopping streets and shopping areas around the station. Compared with popular spots like Osaka and Kyoto, there were far fewer tourists, which made it feel especially relaxed and comfortable. It was nice to take our time buying souvenirs, grabbing small snacks, and enjoying the laid-back atmosphere of downtown Himeji.
Spending the day with an old castle, a zoo, and a relaxed shopping walk felt unrushed and not crowded. It really let us appreciate the charm of traveling in a smaller Japanese city.
Underground Mall Grand Festa / Festa BLD. in front of Himeji Station | Review by 王小鈞
Other Reviews by 王小鈞
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Rokkatei Otaru Canal Store
Rokkatei, a confectionery manufacturer known for popular Hokkaido souvenirs such as "Marusei Butter Sandwich," "Yukiyakonko," and strawberry chocolate, operates the Otaru Canal Store. This store, built using approximately 100,000 bricks from Tokachi, features a retro exterior that blends seamlessly with the streetscape of Sakaimachi Main Street.
If I could bring back only one souvenir from Hokkaido to Taiwan, I’d instantly pick Rokkatei’s rum raisin butter sandwich cookies!
The first bite totally wowed me last time. Rich cream, raisins with a light rum aroma, and soft, buttery cookies with a nice crispness. Every bite makes it impossible to stop. It’s the kind of magical sweet that makes you think, “I’ll just have one,” and then want to open another box.
This time in Hokkaido, I had just one goal: buy several boxes to take back to Taiwan! Otherwise, I knew I’d regret not getting enough and end up trying to ration them at home. If you’re coming to Hokkaido, definitely save some suitcase space for these. They’re absolutely worth carrying all the way home! -
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Otaru Sakaimachi Dori Shopping Street
Located just one street away from the main thoroughfare facing the Otaru Canal, Sakaimachi-dori flourished during the Meiji and early Showa periods, becoming Otaru's main street.
Otaru Sakaimachi Dori Shopping Street is definitely a spot you can’t miss in Otaru! The whole street is packed with Hokkaido souvenirs and tasty snacks. Every few steps, you’ll want to stop for samples or take photos. It’s seriously so easy to get carried away.
This time, I also made a special visit to the super popular Gin no Kane Cafe. The best part is that you can choose your own coffee cup, and after you finish your drink, you get to take the cup home as a souvenir. It’s like having a cup of coffee plus an extra travel memory. Such a nice little ritual!
If you’re visiting Otaru, make sure to leave some time to wander slowly. You might just bring home your own little Hokkaido story too. -
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Otaru Canal
Otaru Port, which developed as a gateway for Hokkaido's settlement, saw an increasing volume of cargo over the years. To streamline its transportation, the "Otaru Canal" was completed in 1923 (Taisho 12). The canal, created by reclaiming the offshore coast, is characterized by its gentle curves rather than a straight line.
Otaru Canal in winter is truly as beautiful as a fairy-tale world! The gas lamps on both sides, paired with snow-covered warehouses, create an incredibly romantic atmosphere. I couldn’t help stopping to take photos with every step.
Whether it’s the pure white snowy scenery during the day or the lights reflecting on the canal at night, it’s the kind of place you won’t want to leave. That said, the snow-covered ground is really slippery. I recommend wearing non-slip shoes or ice cleats and walking slowly so you can enjoy this dreamy winter scene safely.
If you’re traveling to Hokkaido, Otaru Canal is definitely a classic winter spot you shouldn’t miss! -
