Alyssa Chen's Reviews

Motsunabe Tashu Fukuoka Daimyo Main Store

Tucked away in the backstreets of Daimyo, just west of Fukuoka’s bustling Tenjin district, this specialty motsunabe restaurant is a local favorite. The owner trained at a long-established motsunabe shop, so the flavors are truly authentic and expertly crafted.

Fukuoka
Japanese Cuisine

3 Jun 2025 See More

Their motsunabe is packed with flavor! The broth is rich but not overly salty, and the offal is super clean—no weird taste at all, just really tender and chewy. With cabbage and chives, the flavor just gets better the longer it cooks. It's amazing with white rice!
If you're a fan of offal, you'll go crazy for this 😭 Even if you're not, give it a try—you might change your mind. The atmosphere is great, too—perfect for a meal with friends, and you can stroll around the night streets nearby after eating!

Mount Hakodate Observatory Restaurant Genova

Mount Hakodate is renowned for its unique geography, surrounded by sea on both sides, offering breathtaking views, and its nightscape that sparkles in the crisp northern air. Located just below the summit observatory, this restaurant provides guests with a relaxing dining experience, featuring panoramic vistas through its expansive floor-to-ceiling windows. The venue is also versatile, welcoming guests who wish to visit simply for drinks or desserts.

Hakodate and Matsumae
Western Restaurants

12 May 2025 See More

The atmosphere at GENOVA is fantastic! It's so romantic to enjoy dinner while looking out at the night view. The food is great, too—the pasta and pizza are both delicious. The view really takes the experience to the next level. Totally worth a visit!

Bijinbayashi Forest

Stretching over gentle hills of approximately three hectares, Bijinbayashi, or “Forest of Beauty” is the enchanting destination blanketed in century-old beech trees. At the end of the Taisho period (1912-1926), the area was extensively logged for charcoal production, leaving it completely bare. However, the following spring, new beech saplings sprouted simultaneously, eventually growing into today's stunning forest. Its rich natural environment has been carefully preserved, making it a thriving habitat for numerous wild birds.

Niigata
Nature Spots

3 Apr 2025 See More

Walking through the forest, sunlight streams through the leaves and the air is so fresh—it’s truly refreshing. This place is perfect for nature lovers and photographers. Whether it’s the morning mist or the afternoon light, you can capture some really atmospheric photos here!

Kushiro Marsh Observatory

Kushiro Marsh, Japan’s largest wetland, spans an impressive 26,000 hectares with the meandering Kushiro River running through it. This natural treasure trove is home to around 2,000 species of flora and fauna, including the nationally protected red-crowned crane (tancho). For first-time visitors, the Kushiro Marsh Observatory, located on a hill on the western side of the marsh, is a must-visit spot.

Kushiro and Nemuro
Observatories

2 Feb 2025 See More

The view from Kushiro Marsh Observatory is incredible! You can see the vast wetlands change with the seasons, and there's even a chance to spot red-crowned cranes. It's such a refreshing and uplifting place!

Yokiso

Built between the Taisho and early Showa periods by Yumin Ito Jirozaemon-Suketami, the first president of Matsuzakaya, a famous department store in Nagoya, this villa stands as a testament to the era's affluent lifestyle. Constructed on the hills of Kakouzan, Youki-so is a representative suburban villa of modern Nagoya. Five of its buildings are designated as tangible cultural properties by the city of Nagoya.

Nagoya
Tourist Attractions

26 Jan 2025 See More

The blend of Chinese and Japanese architectural styles is beautiful, and the garden is so elegant with a strong historical vibe. Walking around feels like traveling back in time—truly enchanting! A must-visit spot!

Kuromon Sanpei Kuromon Market Store

Located in Osaka's bustling Kuromon Market, this fresh fish shop is a haven for seafood lovers, offering an impressive selection of tuna, salmon, sea urchin, and more.

Osaka
Japanese Cuisine

12 Jan 2025 See More

Located inside Kuromon Market, the seafood here is super fresh and plentiful. Sushi is made to order and tastes sweet and delicious. Prices are reasonable, and the lively atmosphere makes it a must-visit for food lovers!

Shiseido Gallery

Opened in 1919, Shiseido Gallery boasts a history spanning over 100 years, making it one of Japan’s most historic art galleries and often regarded as the oldest of its kind still in operation.

Ginza, Yurakucho
Museums

3 Jan 2025 See More

The gallery features a refined and diverse range of exhibitions. The space is elegant and spacious, and admission is free. It's a fantastic spot to enjoy contemporary art!