Linda Liao's Reviews Page 73/90

Every time I come to Osaka-Umeda Station, I have to stop by Hankyu Department Store and look around. This long-established department store is appealing not only for its overall atmosphere, but also for its tasteful product selection. Every time I walk in, I can feel a refined and elegant Japanese aesthetic.

My favorite part is still the food hall. I can never resist taking a lap to look at all the delicate, beautiful cakes in the display cases. Just admiring them feels soothing. On a previous visit, there was also a Calpis concept store, which left a very distinctive impression.
I was really looking forward to visiting again early this year, but unexpectedly found that the store had just closed. Such a shame… I hope I’ll have another chance to come across it somewhere else in the future.

On this trip to Kumamoto, one of my favorite moments was riding the Kumamoto City Tram through the city. Sitting inside the retro streetcar and watching the streets pass by outside, it felt as if time had slowed down too.

When I reached my destination, Nagasaki Jiro Kissashitsu came into view. As soon as I stepped inside, the strong retro atmosphere and literary vibe made me feel as though I had returned to the Showa era. I especially liked the seating on the second floor, where I could watch the streetcars pass outside while enjoying the owner's specialty Napolitan spaghetti. It was simple yet warm and comforting, as if I had suddenly fallen through a tunnel in time.

Apparently, many writers and intellectuals visited in the past, and Haruki Murakami was also an honored guest! This adds to the old establishment's unique cultural atmosphere. The bookstore on the first floor is even a designated cultural property. That afternoon, I had an unforgettable encounter with this wonderful building.

This sunscreen from Rohto Pharmaceutical has a really hydrating texture, spreads easily, and doesn't feel heavy on the skin. It's still a little sticky, but I think it's within an acceptable range. It has SPF50+ / PA++++ and contains three types of hyaluronic acid, providing sun protection while also helping keep skin moisturized. The small bottle is easy to carry in a bag, so you can take it out whenever you need to reapply while you're out. Overall, it's a good sunscreen for everyday use on the go.

I always thought Hoshino Resorts catered more to travelers looking for a “high-end” experience, especially since rates can get quite expensive during peak season or in popular destinations. But after discovering BEB5 Karuizawa on this trip, I realized Hoshino also offers this kind of stay geared more toward younger travelers and groups of friends.

Rather than focusing on the rooms themselves, what impressed me most about BEB5 was the design of its common areas. From the moment you walk in, you can sense that it was deliberately designed to make you feel like there’s no need to rush back to your room. With the concierge desk, snack shop, and an entire cabinet of board games to choose from, the hotel isn’t just a place to sleep, but another little space where you can hang out, chat, and unwind during your trip.

I really like this design concept. You don’t always have to pack your schedule. Sometimes sitting around with a few friends, playing board games, having some snacks, and chatting is actually the most relaxing part. During the day, you can also take the free shuttle to Harunire Terrace for a stroll, naturally connecting your stay with Karuizawa’s laid-back atmosphere.

A friend recommended that I buy it and give it a try. After actually using it, I found the texture really refreshing! The watery gel spreads easily and has great coverage. It doesn't feel heavy or sticky after application, and my skin still feels very comfortable. Taiwan's summers are especially hot and humid, so this kind of lightweight sunscreen is really suitable for everyday use. From Japanese user reviews, many people also like its watery feel, easy absorption, and the fact that it doesn't leave much of a white cast. It has received rave reviews.

Tokyo Tower has always been one of Tokyo's most iconic landmarks to me! During the day, you can take the elevator up to the observation deck and look out over the city; at night, it turns into a romantic and charming date spot. Many people may not know that Tokyo Tower's decorative lighting actually changes with the seasons and special events. At Christmas, for example, it switches to red and green lights, giving the whole place an especially festive atmosphere.

On this trip to Tokyo, I chose a hotel room with a view of Tokyo Tower so I could enjoy it in a different way. When I woke up in the morning, Tokyo Tower was the first thing I saw; and when I returned to my room at night, I could say good night with the tower's lights beside me〜

Yoroshi Keshodo's “365 Hand Cream” is located on the shopping street leading to Senso-ji Temple, so it's almost impossible to miss. Every time I pass by, I see lots of women gathered around the counter testing scents and choosing one. It's really popular~

The most appealing part is the concept of “365 birthday scents,” with a unique fragrance for every day of the year. It gives you a one-of-a-kind feeling that “this scent was made just for me,” making it perfect as a souvenir or a small birthday gift. However, after actually using it, I found the texture a little sticky, which might bother people who prefer a lighter hand cream. I recommend trying it first.

The interior is very well preserved. Walking through the tatami rooms and wooden spaces, you can almost feel the historical atmosphere of the final years of the shogunate. The museum displays many historical materials from that period and also features some interactive games, making it easier for visitors to learn about the history and daily life of the time.

The Hakodate Magistrate’s Office was built in 1864 as an important administrative institution established by the Edo shogunate to strengthen its rule and defense of Ezo, and it served as a major northern base. Following the Boshin War and the end of the shogunate, the office closed in 1869. The current building was reconstructed based on surviving plans, documents, and photographs, allowing us to experience the history of the final years of the shogunate more closely through an actual visit.

A medicine we've always kept at home since I was little, mainly for relieving diarrhea, loose stools, stomach discomfort, and other symptoms. I remember it having a pretty strong smell, which I personally don't particularly like, but for older family members, it's reassuring to keep a bottle at home.

When I came to Tim Ho Wan, what I was looking forward to most was the baked barbecue pork buns with a crispy crust! With one bite into the golden, crispy crust, it was sweet, fragrant, and crumbly, with a savory, tender barbecue pork filling inside. The sweet and savory flavors came together with plenty of depth. They were especially irresistible hot out of the oven, and the red bean buns were also delicious.