SUNSHINE SAKAE | Review by WANG

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SUNSHINE SAKAE

The building complex symbolized by a Ferris wheel with a beautiful view of the Sakae area.

15 Sep 2026 See More

Standing at an intersection in the heart of Nagoya’s Sakae shopping district, with the warm winter sunlight shining on the crosswalk, I looked up at the super eye-catching giant Ferris wheel on the left. Its colorful rotating gondolas, paired with the yellow Don Quijote penguin sign on the right, gave the entire neighborhood a full-on stylish urban vibe.

After crossing the street with the crowd, I casually wandered into the mall and happened to catch a lively mini LIVE by an underground idol group on the atrium stage. Looking down from the glass railing on the second floor, I saw the girls singing and dancing with all their energy while the fans below waved their light sticks in perfect unison. The air was filled with a passionate enthusiasm for the music and cheering them on.

There was something so immersive about walking through the busiest streets of Nagoya—taking pictures of the landmark Ferris wheel one moment, then being drawn into a powerful local subculture scene the next—that I couldn’t help swaying along to the rhythm.

I highly recommend visiting Sunshine Sakae in person. Whether you’re capturing the classic street view of the Ferris wheel or experiencing an electrifying underground idol performance inside the mall, it will definitely leave you with a uniquely energetic memory of your trip!

Other Reviews by WANG

Shirakawa-go (Historic Village)

Shirakawa-go, a beautiful area where traditional Japanese scenery still exists, is home to the largest number of still-standing traditional “gassho-zukuri” Japanese homes. As of 2016, there are around 100 buildings still standing, both large and small. It is the largest remaining historic settlement in Japan, and it is preserved as a Group of Traditional Buildings in the register of Cultural Properties of Japan.
- Gifu
- Famous Places
15 Sep 2026 See More

The moment I looked down from the observation deck, the layers of snow-white mountains in the distance and the clear azure sky came together to create an absolutely magnificent view. The gassho-style wooden houses in the village, each covered in thick snow, were arranged like little cabins from a fairy tale.

Walking along the village paths through the deep snow, my boots made a solid “crunch” with every step. The air was crisp, dry, and fresh, while sunlight sparkled on the rooftops and icicles. The feeling of actually stepping into this secluded place, carefully sculpted by nature and time, was so deeply moving that words simply cannot describe it.

I strongly recommend visiting Shirakawa-go at least once in your lifetime. Whether you take in the breathtaking panoramic view from above or stroll among the century-old wooden houses, it will definitely leave you with unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime!
Hida Takayama Old Townscape

Hida Takayama Old Townscape is said to be a town where the original landscape of Japan remains, as the streets from the Edo period still remain, and the charming town houses and noren (curtains) of old stores continue to be seen.
- Gifu
- Famous Places
15 Sep 2026 See More

On the streets of Hida Takayama Old Town, the winter sunlight shines on the clean roads, and the air feels chilly yet refreshing. Traditional wooden houses full of Edo-period charm and a prominent red “Hida Takayama” sign greet you as you arrive.

Strolling at an easy pace between the quaint old streets, you can catch the faint aroma of freshly grilled Hida beef skewers and soy sauce rice crackers in the air, making you want to stop and look inside every shop.

Standing under the covered walkway by the street and gazing into the distance, I could see snow still covering the mountaintops beneath a brilliantly blue sky. The pace of strolling through the entire old town felt incredibly comfortable.

Actually walking through such a well-preserved traditional district and experiencing the Hida region’s uniquely slow pace of life makes you reluctant to reach the end too quickly.

I highly recommend planning a walk through Hida Takayama Old Town and using your own two feet to discover the locally handcrafted items hidden inside the old houses, adding the most authentic chapter of Japanese charm to your journey!
Inuyama Festival (Inuyama Matsuri)

Inuyama Festival has been handed down at Haritsuna Shrine since 1635. 13 floats equipped with trick dolls are carried through the town showing off their trick dolls. This Inuyama Festival’s float event is designated as a national important intangible folk cultural property.
- Aichi
- Spring festivals & Events
14 Sep 2026 See More

When I reached the huge stone torii gate of Haritsuna Shrine, I looked up at the gold-lettered plaque and the shrine grounds surrounded by lush green trees. Gentle breezes drifted by, filling the air with a sacred and tranquil atmosphere.

Standing before the stone steps, I slowly made my way into the shrine. As I walked along the solid stone path, the old stone lanterns and traditional buildings on both sides gave off a profound sense of history, naturally calming my mind.

Actually standing at the birthplace of the Inuyama Festival and experiencing the sacred grounds of this traditional festival makes you want to slow down and carefully appreciate every detail of this centuries-old shrine.

If you get the chance, you should definitely come and experience the festival at least once.