nuevo by BUNMEIDO's Maple Castella is a new product from the long-established castella shop Bunmeido. It has a subtle maple aroma and a slightly sweeter flavor, while retaining the same delicate texture. Although the maple version is distinctive, after trying it, I still prefer the classic original castella. The cake is delicate yet substantial, with a subtle honey aroma and just the right amount of sweetness. The more you eat, the more you appreciate its simple, delicious flavor. A classic is a classic after all—the simple original is the one I can't stop thinking about.
nuevo by BUNMEIDO “Maple Castella” | Review by Linda Liao
Other Reviews by Linda Liao
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Rohto V11
Rohto is a long-standing pharmaceutical company with over 120 years of history. It also Japan’s leader in the eyedrops industry. “Rohto V11” is the culmination of Rohto Pharmaceutical’s eyedrop technologies; it contains 3 types of anti-inflammatory ingredients, and it effectively treats inflammation of the eye.
Rohto V11 is designed for discomfort caused by prolonged eye use, eye fatigue, redness, and other issues. It contains several effective ingredients and is popular with many Japanese people. It can be used for emergency care when your eyes feel uncomfortable, but it is not a medication for treating eye diseases. If symptoms persist, consult an ophthalmologist to protect the windows to your soul.
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SOU-SOU Isemomen
SOU-SOU is a textile design brand born in Kyoto. Focusing on lifestyle items that fit modern Japanese life, the brand focuses on using traditional materials and methods while upholding the concept of “creating a new kind of Japanese culture”. Inside you’ll find a wide range of items including jikatabi, kimono, Japanese sweets and furniture.
Anyone who's been familiar with Japanese brands for a long time has probably heard of “SOU・SOU.” The founder has devoted many years to promoting traditional Japanese culture and clothing, making SOU・SOU more than just a place that sells products. It's more like sharing a lifestyle aesthetic of “wearing Japanese culture in everyday life.”
This time, I happened to come across a SOU・SOU store while strolling along Kyoto's Ninenzaka. Before even entering, I could already feel the brand's strong character. As soon as I stepped inside, the many classic number patterns and cute elements really caught my eye!
Unlike typical souvenir shops, in addition to everyday items, the store also has a sweets section. The seasonal dango skewers are cute and playfully shaped, and I couldn't help but smile when I saw them. There are also handkerchiefs in all kinds of patterns to choose from. I bought a few designs I liked to take home as travel souvenirs, and friends and family also liked receiving them as gifts.
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Kyoto Porta
Opened about 40 years ago as Kyoto's first underground shopping center, "Kyoto Ekimae Underground Shopping Center Porta" and "Kyoto Station Building Specialty Store Street The Cube" merged in 2023. It has been reborn as a large-scale shopping mall suitable for the gateway to the international tourist city of Kyoto.
After wrapping up a day of sightseeing in Kyoto, consider heading to the Kyoto Porta underground shopping mall next to Kyoto Station in the evening! It has restaurants, souvenir shops, drugstores, everyday goods, and a supermarket where you can pick up snacks, drinks, and daily necessities. Whether you're having dinner, shopping, or making some last-minute purchases, it's very convenient.
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