The Gashapon Department Store is truly an “evil” place. I only planned to look around, but as I kept browsing, I couldn't resist trying a few! Japanese gashapon come in such a wide variety of designs, from cute and comforting items and useful little gadgets to all kinds of wildly creative designs. Most of them are also quite finely made, and even though they're tiny, they're very collectible. Turning the handle is fun too—there's a little thrill to it, and you can test your luck to see if you'll get the one you want most on the first try. Just be sure to quit while you're ahead, or your wallet will take a serious hit〜
Gashapon Department Store Ikebukuro Main Branch | Review by Linda Liao
Other Reviews by Linda Liao
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Hikari no Machi Hakata
Hikari no Machi Hakata is an annual holiday event hosted by JR Hakata City, the commercial complex directly connected to JR Hakata Station. A dazzling 640,000 lights illuminate the station plaza, turning the heart of the city into a magical winter scene.
If you happen to travel to Fukuoka from November to December, don't forget to set aside some time for the “Hikari no Machi Hakata” Christmas illuminations in front of Hakata Station! Every winter, the plaza in front of the station gets a dazzling makeover, with a dreamy sea of blue lights illuminating the night sky. Combined with shimmering light displays and Christmas decorations, the entire area is filled with a romantic holiday atmosphere. There is also a Christmas market with hot food, hot drinks, and all kinds of stalls to enjoy. Holding a warm drink while admiring the sea of lights on a slightly chilly night, whether you're chatting with friends or enjoying the winter romance on your own, will leave you with warm and unforgettable memories of your trip to Fukuoka!
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Koedo Kawagoe Ichibangai Shopping Street
"Kawagoe," which thrived as a crucial point for transporting food such as rice and vegetables to Edo using the "Shingashi River," still retains its historical charm. The town is lined with traditional storehouses, preserving the vibes of yesteryears. Owing to these traces of the past, it's fondly referred to as the modern-day Little Edo.
When visiting Kawagoe, you can't miss the lively Koedo Kawagoe Ichibangai Shopping Street! Kawagoe is known as “Little Edo,” and walking through it feels like stepping into a time tunnel. The street is lined with historic kura-style storehouse buildings, featuring sturdy black-tiled roofs, dark wooden walls, and thick fireproof walls that showcase the distinctive architectural style of merchants from the Edo period. Along the way, there is a dazzling variety of snacks, Japanese sweets, and unique souvenirs. Every shop has something interesting to see, making it hard not to stop and browse. There’s none of the rushed feeling of a big city here. Instead, the atmosphere is relaxed and carefree. Strolling around, eating as you go, and slowly taking in the old street scenery is the most charming part of a trip to Kawagoe.
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AYANOKOJI Gion Store
Located just steps away from Yasaka Shrine, a famous tourist spot in Kyoto, this clasp (gamaguchi) specialty store offers modern and original clasp items suited for contemporary lifestyles, revisiting traditional techniques and materials.
While strolling through the streets of Gion, I was drawn to the dazzling variety of clasp purses inside AYANOKOJI and couldn't resist going in to browse~ This Japanese brand specializes in clasp purses, incorporating traditional, retro-style metal clasps into practical modern bags. From coin purses and makeup pouches to handbags in all sizes, each item features Japanese-style fabrics and colorful patterns. Every design is delicate and distinctive, making them hard to put down. Compared with the usual cookies and candy, these practical items with a Japanese touch make better travel gifts for friends and family, and the recipients will surely be pleasantly surprised!
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