Linda Liao's Reviews Page 29/75

The Sendai Castle ruins are larger than I imagined. Walking around, you can get a sense of the scale of the former castle. There are no complete buildings left to visit, and the most striking sight is the equestrian statue of Date Masamune, a must-see landmark here. That day, I also came across elementary school students on a field trip. The children listened attentively to the guide and learned about Sendai's history. Their focused and adorable expressions left a deep impression on me. The castle ruins are located on high ground, offering wide-open views overlooking downtown Sendai.

As you walk down the street, you'll see Korean restaurants, kimchi shops, Korean food, and general goods everywhere. The signs and the aroma of grilled meat drifting through the air make you feel as though you've arrived in Korea. For Koreans living in Japan, this isn't just a place to shop and eat. It also offers a familiar taste of home that can ease some of the homesickness of living abroad.

If you're traveling from Osaka to Kyoto for sightseeing, I highly recommend taking the Kyo-train GARAKU. In my opinion, it's definitely a great value! Unlike many sightseeing trains that require advance reservations and charge higher fares, you can ride the Kyo-train GARAKU for just the regular Hankyu train fare. No additional reservation is needed, and you can enjoy a distinctive train filled with Kyoto charm.

The greatest appeal of the Kyo-train GARAKU is that each of its six cars has a different theme, such as maple leaves or winter scenery. Every car has its own atmosphere, making it feel as though you've already begun a short trip before even reaching Kyoto. The interiors feature plenty of wood, traditional Japanese design, and subdued colors, creating a strong sense of Zen. The seats and window views are also thoughtfully designed, turning what would normally be simple travel time into one of the highlights of the journey.

You don't have to pay extra for a sightseeing train or scramble to reserve tickets to travel to Kyoto on such a beautiful train. It's especially suitable for first-time visitors to the Kansai region. Next time you go from Osaka to Kyoto, consider adding the Kyo-train GARAKU to your itinerary!

When it comes to electronics retailers in Japan, people from Taiwan are probably more familiar with Bic Camera and Yodobashi. But EDION is also a well-known Japanese electronics retailer, with stores mainly in western Japan, from the Chubu and Kinki regions to Chugoku, Shikoku, and Kyushu. It carries a comprehensive selection of appliances and electronics, from beauty appliances and consumer electronics to household appliances, along with excellent after-sales service. Consider stopping by EDION next time~

One of Osaka's most romantic winter sights—the Midosuji Illumination! Held along Midosuji in Osaka from around November to December each year, it stretches from Yodoyabashi to the Shinsaibashi area, lighting up the entire street with a dazzling sea of lights. The area around Shinsaibashi left the deepest impression on me. While shopping and strolling around, you can look up and see the sparkling lights. Walking among them really puts you in a festive winter mood, and every photo looks good!

GINZA INZ is located in Ginza 1-chome. What's most distinctive is that the shopping complex sits beneath the elevated Tokyo Expressway and consists of several buildings. It brings together all kinds of stores selling clothing and household goods, as well as restaurants. Compared with Ginza's upscale department stores, it feels more affordable and down-to-earth. GINZA INZ 1 also has an officially licensed Moomin specialty store with lots of cute merchandise. I really enjoy stopping by to browse.

GINZA BOUL'MICH is known for its elegant desserts. Its waffles have a cute appearance, and the crisp, fragrant waffles paired with a delicate sweetness create a rich texture. In addition to waffles, the shop also offers cakes, chocolates, and other desserts. There is also a counter at Tokyo Station, making it convenient for travelers to buy them.

The hugely popular Chiikawa characters are loved by both adults and children, captivating Japan with their cute and comforting charm. At Chiikawa Land, you can see familiar characters like Chiikawa, Hachiware, and Usagi, along with tons of exclusive merchandise, from plush toys and stationery to household goods and all kinds of cute accessories. With so many irresistibly adorable items, how can anyone resist the temptation? All I can say is, prepare yourself before you come—your wallet is definitely going to take a big hit!

This shopping district has a bit of a historic feel. Although the buildings and streets aren’t as trendy as those in Shinjuku or Ikebukuro, it’s still crowded and full of lively, everyday energy. Besides being known for anime, models, vintage clothing, and collectibles, there are also plenty of affordable and tasty snacks, such as takoyaki, taiyaki, ramen, and croquettes, which are great for eating as you walk around. Whenever I come here, I stop by OS Drug to stock up. They have a good selection of Japanese drugstore products and daily necessities, and the prices are often a pleasant surprise.

LUMINE EST is near the East Exit of Shinjuku Station, making it very convenient to get to. It brings together many clothing, shoe, bag, beauty, general merchandise, and lifestyle brands popular with young people in Japan, and the overall atmosphere is stylish and energetic. Besides shopping, there are also plenty of restaurants and dessert shops. There are so many stores in the Shinjuku shopping district that even a whole day isn’t enough!