While casually wandering through Kyoto’s side streets, you’ll definitely be drawn to ShinPuhKan. I happened to walk over from the Ace Hotel side, and Kengo Kuma’s distinctive architectural style made me recognize it right away—“This is the place!”
The entrance to ShinPuhKan is also super stylish, and once inside, I was surprised to find a lush green courtyard. There aren’t that many shops, but they all feel thoughtfully curated. The one I highly recommend is BEAMS JAPAN, where you can find lots of affordable yet beautifully made Japanese goods. The staff were also warm and friendly. If your itinerary takes you nearby, I definitely recommend stopping in!
ShinPuhKan | Review by 金己田
Other Reviews by 金己田
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Yamashita Park
Yamashita Park is located by the sea, just a short walk from Yokohama Chinatown. It was opened in March of 1930, reclaiming the waterfront using rubble caused by the Great Kanto Earthquake.
The best stopover spot for sightseeing in Yokohama!
After walking through the lively, bustling Chinatown, we strolled over to the spacious Yamashita Park. Since it’s right by the harbor, a refreshing sea breeze greets you, and the calm water stretches out before your eyes.
In an instant, all the fatigue from the trip melts away. It’s the perfect place to relax and enjoy a leisurely moment. -
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Imado Shrine
This ancient shrine of authentic lineage is known for bringing blessings in matchmaking because the deities worshipped here are 'Izanagi-no-Mikoto' and 'Izanami-no-Mikoto', considered the first couple in Japan. Since 2008, the shrine has regularly held 'matchmaking meetings', thus becoming more widely known as a shrine where you can pray for a good match. It attracts crowds not only on weekends but also on weekdays from those hoping for a successful relationship.
There are many theories about the origin of the maneki-neko, and Imado Shrine in Asakusa is said to be one of them. The shrine is a little farther from the busy main area of Asakusa, tucked away in a quiet residential neighborhood. It’s a small shrine, and you can spot maneki-neko all around the grounds.
Imado Shrine is also known for blessings related to love and relationships, and its goshuin features a design with pink tones, hearts, and maneki-neko, making it well worth collecting. -
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Hida Takayama Old Townscape
Hida Takayama Old Townscape is said to be a town where the original landscape of Japan remains, as the streets from the Edo period still remain, and the charming town houses and noren (curtains) of old stores continue to be seen.
If you visit Takayama, you should definitely stay overnight.
At night, the old town has a completely different charm from the daytime. Without the daytime crowds, it becomes so quiet that all you can hear is the flowing water of the Miyagawa River. The dark old houses look even more atmospheric under the lights.
During the day, the streets are full of energy, with lots of unique little shops worth exploring. Stop into one for a simple but delicious bowl of Takayama ramen, then finish with a Takayama pudding before heading back to Nagoya! -
