Linda Liao's Reviews Page 18/90

Finally got to see the red and yellow pumpkins! One of the things I was most looking forward to when visiting Naoshima for the Setouchi Triennale was seeing these pumpkin installations designed by Yayoi Kusama in person. The moment I stood in front of them, I immediately switched into “photo mode.” Whether from the front, the side, or farther away, every angle looks good! The brightly colored pumpkins against the endless Seto Inland Sea, with the blue sky, ocean, and artworks all coming together, make every casual shot look like a postcard. Even if you miss the art festival, there’s no need to be disappointed—the pumpkins are permanent installations, so they’ll be there whenever you visit!

When visiting Naoshima, besides enjoying the museums and various works of art, don’t miss the highly distinctive Naoshima Bath “I♥湯” near Miyanoura Port! Even from a distance, the exterior is filled with bold, fantastical artistic elements, and there are surprises everywhere once you step inside. From the bathtubs, tile murals, and mosaics to even the ceramic details in the restrooms, everything incorporates artist Shinro Ohtake’s unique creative style.

The most interesting part is—this isn’t just an art museum to look around. It’s a real sento where you can actually take off your clothes and soak in the bath! Soaking while admiring the artistic details all around you could be considered a kind of “immersive art experience”〜

The Naoshima New Museum of Art was one of the stops I was really looking forward to on this trip, and once I stepped inside, it definitely did not disappoint. The layout feels more like an immersive installation art experience. Each exhibition area offers a different surprise. The works aren't just there to be “viewed”; they make you want to stop and examine the details from different angles.

What left an especially strong impression on me was the pack of wolves depicted with flowing lines. At first glance, it looks clean and simple, but a closer look reveals the speed and power of the wolves as they run. Their poses are so lifelike that they seem ready to leap out of the image at any moment. The museum also has many exquisite murals with rich details that remain interesting to look at, revealing something different whether viewed up close or from a distance. The works and the architectural space complement each other, making the visit feel like more than just “seeing an exhibition.” It feels like slowly exploring a world full of imagination.

When you get tired from walking around, there's also a cute café inside where you can sit down with a drink, take a short break, and enjoy the view outside, which lifts your mood too.

The Setouchi Triennale, held once every three years, finally brought this long-awaited trip in 2025. I boarded the ferry from Takamatsu Station, with the sea breeze blowing in my face as I gazed out over the deep blue water, already full of anticipation. As the outline of Naoshima slowly appeared on the distant horizon, I couldn't contain my excitement and couldn't wait to get off the ferry and start exploring!

Kawagoe Hikawa Shrine is a well-known place in Kawagoe to pray for good relationships. The grounds are peaceful, and as soon as you enter, you can feel the atmosphere of a traditional Japanese shrine. During this visit, I also tried the cute “carp amulet,” where you fish out a little carp yourself. It was fun and also great for taking commemorative photos.

While I was visiting the shrine, a newlywed couple happened to arrive by rickshaw for their wedding ceremony. During cherry blossom season, seeing them complete such an important life ceremony at the shrine in traditional wedding attire was romantic and full of happiness. There is also a café on the grounds where you can sit down, have a drink, and take a short break. The overall atmosphere was very comfortable.

When visiting Kawagoe, you’ll almost certainly pass by the Toki no Kane, or Time Bell Tower, which is filled with Edo-period charm. The old-fashioned wooden bell tower is one of Kawagoe’s most iconic landmarks, and its bell still rings at set times. The melodious chimes add a nostalgic atmosphere to the historic streets. Many traditional kurazukuri buildings have been preserved nearby, and walking along Kawagoe Ichibangai feels like stepping through a time tunnel. With the dessert and souvenir shops lining the street, it’s a great place to take a leisurely stroll, snap photos, and experience Kawagoe’s unique historic atmosphere.

You can enjoy Osaka-style okonomiyaki in Tokyo too! Located in Odaiba, Tsuruhashi Fugetsu is a well-known, long-established okonomiyaki restaurant from Osaka. Each order is freshly prepared by mixing plenty of cabbage with batter and grilling it, resulting in a fluffy texture with the mild sweetness of the vegetables. Their signature okonomiyaki is topped with a special sauce, mayonnaise, and bonito flakes, giving it a wonderful aroma. You also get to enjoy the experience of having it served piping hot and freshly made.

If you're staying at a hotel near Tennoji Station, you'll definitely come here in the evening to shop. I especially like browsing Loft for cute stationery. Last time, I also picked up a few finely made lace tapes here, which made journaling even more fun.

When visiting Osaka’s Shinsekai area, one of the most iconic shopping routes is Shinsekai Hon-dori Shopping Street. The street is full of Osaka’s old-fashioned working-class charm and offers a real sense of everyday local life. You’ll find all kinds of kushikatsu restaurants, izakayas, souvenir shops, and food stalls, along with distinctive signs and neon lights. As you stroll around, you can also enjoy the lively atmosphere with a touch of nostalgia. Tsutenkaku Tower is nearby, so it’s very convenient to visit both together.

Kanazawa Castle Park was once the residence of the Maeda family of the Kaga Domain and is now an important place to learn about Kanazawa's history and architectural culture. The park preserves historic buildings such as the Ishikawa Gate and Sanjikken Nagaya, and castle structures such as the Hishi Yagura, Gojikken Nagaya, and Hashizume Gate have also been reconstructed. The Gojikken Nagaya is particularly impressive. One of the most fascinating features of Kanazawa Castle is its variety of stone walls, with distinctive masonry styles from different periods. You can enjoy cherry blossoms in spring and fall foliage in autumn, and each season offers a different view. It's a great place to visit together with nearby Kenrokuen Garden.