Sitting by the window and looking out over Shinjuku Gyoen feels so relaxing.
The vibe is totally different from a regular Starbucks in the city.
Starbucks Coffee Shinjuku Gyoen Store | Review by Derek Ho
Other Reviews by Derek Ho
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Harmonica Alley
Located just outside the north exit of Kichijoji Station, this small alley is home to about 100 shops. The name “Harmonica Alley” is said to come from the fact that the line of small storefronts looks like the holes on a harmonica. Many of the shops sell delicious things to eat, so it’s a great place to stroll while sampling some of the delights. At night, red lanterns light the many izakayas (Japanese style pubs), which are a popular place to have a drink.
It’s especially awesome at night. With the lights and all the chatter, it totally has that Japanese nightlife feel.
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Kushiro City Red-Crowned Crane Natural Park (Kushiro Japanese Crane Reserve)
Doors flew open in 1958 at this esteemed park founded to protect and increase the population of red-crowned cranes, a designated Special Natural Monument of Japan. Once on the brink of extinction, the reserve successfully implemented artificial hatching and advanced breeding techniques that saved the species.
Seeing the red-crowned cranes in winter is especially awesome. The snowy scenery with those white cranes just feels so Japanese.
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Yanagawa River Cruise
Located in southern Fukuoka Prefecture, Yanagawa is known as a city of waterways, with a network of canals dating back to the Edo period. Its main attraction is a river cruise through the city aboard a donko-bune punt. Listen to the boatman's commentary and songs while taking in the seasonal scenery and enjoying a leisurely journey.
Most of the boatmen will sing or give explanations (mainly in Japanese).
Even if you don’t understand, it still feels quite charming.
Rain, extreme heat, or cold will definitely make the experience less enjoyable, especially in summer when it gets so hot you start questioning your life choices. -
