Linda Liao's Reviews Page 28/90

Ofune Camome is a small sightseeing boat that cruises through Osaka’s waterways. Converted from an old wooden boat, it has a warm, nostalgic feel. It holds just over 10 passengers, offering a relaxing, intimate space that feels like a living room. In spring, why not enjoy the cherry blossoms by boat? It has a charm all its own〜

We came to Temmabashi in Osaka to see the cherry blossoms and took a leisurely walk along the Okawa River. Cherry blossoms were in full bloom on both banks, with a sea of pink flowers reflected on the water, making the spring atmosphere especially enchanting. Along the way, we could also see the Aqua-Liner water bus slowly cruising past, moving between the cherry blossoms and the city scenery. With boats occasionally passing under the bridges, the view was quite poetic. The Temmabashi area is not only a famous cherry blossom viewing spot, but also a great place to experience Osaka’s atmosphere as a “city of water.” Taking a relaxed walk here was truly pleasant.

While visiting Gion in Kyoto, I specifically made time for a matcha parfait! Gion Tsujiri is a long-established Uji tea shop in Kyoto, and its matcha desserts are practically its signature. The parfait is layered with matcha ice cream, matcha jelly, shiratama, and red beans. The tea flavor is rich without being simply sweet, and there are many layers of flavor.

It is said to have been founded by Prince Shōtoku during the Asuka period, while the existing pagoda was rebuilt during the Muromachi period. Standing about 40 meters tall, this five-story pagoda is one of the few ancient pagodas still preserved within Kyoto's city streets. Viewed from Yasaka-dori, the traditional machiya townhouses and the five-story pagoda form a classic Kyoto scene. It is especially charming when the afternoon sunlight falls on the wooden structure; toward evening, as the streetlights gradually come on, it takes on a different kind of tranquil beauty. For many people, this is also one of the streetscapes that feels most distinctly like Kyoto.

There is also a Miffy specialty shop in Kyoto's Gion Shopping Street, and the moment I walked in, my inner girl came bursting out! The entire store, from the storefront to the interior, is filled with Miffy. The selection is also more extensive than expected, with everything from classic plush toys, charms, and stationery to cups, tableware, and household goods, plus quite a few special items designed specifically for Kyoto. Every item made me want to stop and take a closer look. Seeing all the cute pastel-colored items together was completely soothing, and before I knew it, I had spent more than planned.

Japan's incense culture originated with the custom of burning incense after Buddhism was introduced. At first, it was mainly used for rituals at temples, but it gradually became part of aristocratic life and even developed into kōdō, or the art of incense, in which different fragrances are appreciated by smelling and identifying them. Shoyeido was founded in Kyoto and has carried on the tradition of incense making for many years. In addition to incense sticks for Buddhist ceremonies, the store also offers incense suitable for everyday use. Different combinations of fragrant woods and spices create their own distinctive scents, and you can take your time choosing from sandalwood and agarwood to floral fragrances. For Japanese people, burning incense isn't just about adding fragrance to a space; it's also a way to calm the mind and experience the seasons and everyday life.

If you want to experience Osaka's most authentic everyday local life, you should definitely visit Tenjinbashi-suji Shopping Street! Stretching about 2.6 kilometers, it is said to be Japan's longest shopping street. It extends from Tenjinbashi and is packed with affordable food, long-established shops, clothing stores, general goods, and household supply stores along the way. Unlike Umeda and Shinsaibashi, it isn't as touristy, and more of the shops cater to Osaka residents doing their everyday shopping, making it very interesting to explore. You also shouldn't miss local favorites such as takoyaki, okonomiyaki, croquettes, and wagashi. The prices are affordable, and the food is full of Osaka character. When you get tired of walking, you can sit down for something to eat at a small shop and slowly experience the most everyday side of Osaka, the "Kitchen of the Nation"!

How could you visit Osaka without trying the hugely popular Kushikatsu Daruma? The signature Daruma man is very eye-catching and hard to miss when walking down the street. After being seated, you're first served a plate of crisp raw cabbage to enjoy with the kushikatsu. There are plenty of choices on the menu, including beef, pork, chicken, shrimp, cheese, lotus root, and asparagus. Everything is fried until golden and crispy, and it's so tasty while piping hot.
Once the kushikatsu arrives, dip it in the special sauce on the table. Its savory, slightly sweet flavor is the classic taste of Osaka's everyday food! One thing to keep in mind is that the restaurant will remind you that you can “dip only once.” You can't dip a skewer back into the sauce after taking a bite. It's both for hygiene and a small rule of Osaka's kushikatsu culture. If you're visiting Shinsekai in Osaka, don't forget to stop by for some authentic kushikatsu!

I came to Osaka during cherry blossom season and had especially wanted to visit the Mint to see its famous “Cherry Blossom Passage” in person. Unfortunately, the opening dates are adjusted according to the blooming conditions, and they didn't line up with my travel dates, so I reluctantly had to give up. Instead, I took a walk around Temmabashi and along the Okawa River. Unexpectedly, the cherry trees on both sides were in full bloom, and when the gentle breeze blew, the petals drifted through the air. Together with the view of the river, the atmosphere was just as charming. Although I didn't get to walk through the Mint's Cherry Blossom Passage, I was still very satisfied with this unexpected alternative itinerary.

Nijo-jo Castle, a famous cherry blossom viewing spot in Kyoto, transforms into a romantic cherry blossom hideaway every spring. Many varieties of cherry trees are planted throughout the castle grounds, with Somei Yoshino, mountain cherry, and double-flowered cherry trees blooming one after another. The scenery changes as you admire them along the castle walls, moat, and gardens. Strolling through this historic World Heritage Site while viewing the cherry blossoms and experiencing Kyoto's rich historical atmosphere is well worth adding to your itinerary!