The most unique part of this Kyoto trip was visiting Yasui Konpiragu!
This shrine is famous not for wealth or romance, but for “letting go” of unwanted ties (lol).
You write your wish on a piece of paper, crawl through the large stone, and then attach the paper to it. It’s said to help cut ties with toxic people, bad situations, and bad luck while welcoming new, positive connections. Seeing everyone—from adults to kids—seriously trying to squeeze through was pretty cute. Hopefully, I left all the bad stuff behind in Kyoto and brought the good luck home with me.
Yasui Konpiragu | Review by 王小鈞
Other Reviews by 王小鈞
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Atsuta Houraiken Main Store
Founded in 1873 in front of Atsuta Jingu Shrine, this restaurant is the birthplace of "Hitsumabushi", Nagoya's famous eel dish. Hitsumabushi, which is a registered trademark of Atsuta Horaiiken, is a dish of broiled eel chopped into small pieces and served on a bed of rice in a container called an "o-hitsu".
You can’t visit Nagoya without trying hitsumabushi!
Atsuta Houraiken Main Store truly lives up to its reputation, and it’s worth the wait. The eel is crispy on the outside and tender inside. Paired with the special sauce, it has the perfect sweet-savory balance and is packed with flavor.
First, enjoy the eel and rice as is. Next, add nori, green onions, and wasabi. Finally, pour dashi over it to make eel ochazuke. Each way offers a different flavor.
It’s easy to see why this place has stayed so popular for so many years. I’m still craving that amazing taste!
If you’re traveling to Nagoya, be sure to add this classic eel dish to your itinerary! -
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Ekikama Kishimen Chuo-dori
Ekikama Kishimen Chuo-dori is the perfect spot to casually savor kishimen, Nagoya's renowned flat noodle dish, conveniently located within the concourse of Nagoya Station. Situated close to the Shinkansen ticket gates, it's ideal for grabbing a quick bite right before departure.
Tucked inside Nagoya Station is a hidden gem known mostly to locals. No need to go out of your way—it’s perfect for a quick bowl before catching the Shinkansen.
Their specialty is Nagoya-style kishimen. The springy, chewy flat noodles are served with a rich dipping sauce made from bonito and mackerel broth blended with soy sauce. It’s savory and flavorful without feeling heavy, and every bite leaves you wanting more. The noodles are made by a century-old noodle maker, which explains their fantastic texture.
If you’re not sure what to eat first in Nagoya or need a quick meal before your train, definitely add this spot to your list! -
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Noritake Garden
This is the birthplace of Noritake, a western tableware brand highly acclaimed globally. The park is a lush green space to relax in, with stores, cafes, restaurants, and a museum.
Nagoya has more to offer than just shopping—there are relaxing places like this too.
Noritake Garden is the birthplace of the famous Japanese tableware brand Noritake. The century-old red-brick factory buildings give the grounds a charming vintage feel. There’s plenty of greenery, and it doesn’t feel rushed like the city center. When you need a break, you can stop by the café or browse the beautiful tableware.
I originally came just because it was along the way, but I ended up liking it more than expected. It’s a great place to slow down and enjoy a leisurely visit. -
