If you're visiting Tokyo, consider making time for a stroll around Ueno Zoo. Opened in 1882, this zoo is located in central Tokyo, so you can enjoy seeing all kinds of animals up close without traveling far〜 It always attracts many locals on holidays and is not only a popular spot for families with children, but also a nice place for a date.
The zoo's two extremely popular pandas were returned to China in January 2026 when their loan period ended, and many fans came to say goodbye.
Ueno Zoo | Review by Linda Liao
Other Reviews by Linda Liao
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Grapestone “Tokyo Banana Mitsuketa (found)”
“Tokyo Banana” was created in 1991 and has become a major souvenir from Tokyo. The fluffy sponge cake has a filling of pureed banana custard cream.
Tokyo Banana is a classic Tokyo souvenir. The soft, fluffy cake is filled with rich, smooth banana custard cream. It's sweet but not overly so, and never gets old. Both adults and children love it.
Besides the classic packaging, various limited-edition products have also been released from time to time in recent years. Seeing the different shapes and designs each time still feels surprising and fun. Plus, they're individually wrapped and don't need to be refrigerated, making them very convenient whether you're sharing them with friends and family or bringing them back to the office for coworkers. -
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Shiroi Koibito
Everyone in Japan knows Hokkaido’s sweets, “Shiroi Koibito.” Ishiya Co., Ltd.was an ordinary candy maker to begin with, but utilizing quality ingredients in Hokkaido changed them into the producer of the classic dessert. More than 40 years passed since its beginning, but it is still the beloved souvenir of Hokkaido to this day.
A classic Hokkaido souvenir that can also be found in duty-free shops at major airports. Two thin, crispy cookies with a rich milky aroma sandwich sweet, smooth white chocolate. As soon as you take a bite, the rich milk powder aroma spreads through your mouth, making it very distinctive.
In addition to the regular packaging, there are also tin box versions to choose from. After finishing the cookies, you can keep the tin for collecting or storage. I currently use mine to store yarn, which is very convenient. -
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Travel Lululun - Tokyo Limited Edition
"Feeling happy just by having smooth skin. Creating women's good mood by considering the skin" is the concept of skincare brand "Lululun". The "Face Mask Toner", which can be used instead of daily lotion and is the brand's flagship item, comes in various series according to age and skin concerns, such as the "Lululun Pure Series" for skincare beginners, the "Lululun Precious Series" to gently treat adult skin, and the "Lululun OVER45 Series" to bring out the beauty of those over 45.
Lululun is an affordable face mask brand commonly found in Japanese drugstores. There are many options to choose from based on your skin condition and needs, with different lines for everything from daily skincare to various age groups. The selection is extensive and very thoughtfully designed.
What makes Lululun especially unique is that you can also find different regional limited-edition masks throughout Japan, featuring scents inspired by each area. They make great souvenirs when traveling.
I've bought the Hokkaido lavender and Kyushu tulip masks from the floral series, and their light scents are very soothing〜 If you enjoy buying Japanese face masks, keep an eye out for regional limited editions in addition to the regular ones. You might discover a nice surprise that's only available locally! -
