Linda Liao's Reviews Page 2/75

Anyone who sews probably knows that many sewing supplies and tools sold in Taiwan are imported from Japan, and they aren’t exactly cheap. I happened to be in Japan on a business trip this time, so I used some free time to make a special trip to Nippori Fabric Town and stock up!

This place is really great for anyone who enjoys crafts and sewing and wants to hunt for finds. There’s a huge selection, from all kinds of sewing tools and supplies to fabrics. Even for the same Japanese brands or tools made in Japan, the prices here are much more affordable. I ended up picking out quite a few useful little tools while browsing, and the total came to only about JPY 7,000–8,000. It felt like a great deal!

Daikanbo, at an elevation of about 936 meters, is a popular spot for taking in Aso’s magnificent scenery. From this high vantage point, you can see the Five Peaks of Aso, the vast Aso Valley, and the expansive grasslands. Viewed from this angle, the Five Peaks of Aso resemble a reclining Buddha, earning them the nickname “Nirvana Buddha.” On clear days, the views are extremely expansive, and on early mornings in fall and winter, you may even encounter a dreamlike sea of clouds. Driving is recommended. It takes about 20–30 minutes by car from JR Aso Station, and you can enjoy beautiful views of Aso along the way.

It’s hard not to be drawn in by the adorable Shin-chan when you walk by! The store is packed with familiar and funny images of Shin-chan, and all the different merchandise can’t help but make you smile. They have everything from character-themed snacks and stationery to household goods, with so much to choose from. If you’re a Crayon Shin-chan fan, stop by while you’re in Tokyo and take an adorable Shin-chan home with you!

Near the end of your trip and just realized there are still so many Hokkaido souvenirs you haven’t bought? I highly recommend stopping by Kobushiya Sapporo Store to get everything in one go! The store has a great selection of popular products from Rokkatei, Shiroi Koibito, and more. You’ll find everything from classic sweets and snacks to all kinds of limited-edition souvenirs. The most convenient part is that you don’t have to run all over the place—you can get it all done at once. As you browse, you might even unexpectedly discover some great Hokkaido products that weren’t originally on your list!

I got off the streetcar in front of the shopping center on my way to Goryokaku. This is one of the few small shopping centers in central Hakodate, with stores like Starbucks and MUJI. You can come here in the evening to pass the time. There are lots of cute animal sculptures along the sidewalk outside, and you can collect them as you walk〜

Fuji TV is located near Odaiba Seaside Park. The striking silver sphere suspended in the center of the building is recognizable from a distance and is one of Odaiba's most iconic landmarks. If you have time, you can also explore inside. Some public areas are free to visit, so anyone who likes TV shows or Japanese pop culture can stop by. If you want to enjoy Odaiba from a higher vantage point, you can purchase a separate ticket to visit the spherical observation deck “Hachitama” on the 25th floor, where you can look out over Tokyo Bay and the surrounding scenery.

This time, while passing through Hankyu Sanban Gai, I unexpectedly came across a pop-up shop selling “Heidi, Girl of the Alps” merchandise. I felt so lucky! I took my time picking out the items I liked. The handkerchiefs and mugs were all so well made, and I left completely satisfied〜

As the boat slowly pulled away from Mojiko Port and headed back toward central Fukuoka in the sea breeze, the Kanmon Straits looked especially enchanting after nightfall. In the distance, Kaikyo Yume Tower shimmered in the darkness like a lighthouse guarding the straits. Nearby, the Ferris wheel was also lit up in colorful lights, and as the boat moved along, the city lights reflected and flickered on the water.

Many years ago, I visited Tokyo Dome with a friend and experienced a Japanese professional baseball game in person for the first time. It still leaves a lasting impression on me. Besides the exciting offense and defense on the field, the most interesting part was seeing staff in the stands selling hot food, drinks, and even beer. You could enjoy food and watch the game without leaving your seat, which was very different from the ballpark culture I was familiar with in Taiwan. The cheers and chants throughout the stadium also created a great atmosphere. Tokyo Dome City isn't just a baseball stadium. There is also an amusement park, shopping, and a variety of dining options nearby, making it a nice place to spend a day off.

The Kure Harbor warship tour is a must for military and history enthusiasts visiting Kure! Board a sightseeing boat and head out on the water for a close-up view of the various warships docked in the harbor. Seeing this port city steeped in military history from the water offers a whole new perspective. I especially recommend going in the early evening, when the sun slowly sets and its golden glow falls across the warships. Many people come specifically to take photos.