When you visit Shibamata, besides strolling the old street, you should definitely stop by Shibamata Taishakuten too.
Passing through the Nitenmon Gate feels like stepping back in time. One of the reasons I love visiting temples in Japan is for these quiet, peaceful moments. Whether you join in the traditional prayer rituals or simply take in the atmosphere, it’s all wonderful.
Shibamata Taishakuten Daikyo-ji Temple | Review by 金己田
Other Reviews by 金己田
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Sawayaka Charcoal-Grilled Restaurant Kosai Hamanako
Located in Kosai City, this is the only branch in the city of Shizuoka’s famous hamburger steak chain, which operates 34 locations exclusively within Shizuoka Prefecture. The signature dish is the “Genkotsu Hamburg,” made from 100% beef formed into a thick block and grilled over charcoal. Served sizzling on a hot iron plate, the hamburger steak is cut in half right in front of you by the staff, after which you finish it to your preferred doneness. The bold, beefy flavor and firm, springy texture are outstanding. Sauces can be chosen from a classic onion sauce made with onions or a rich demi-glace, with a mixed option combining both also proving popular.
If you visit Shizuoka, you absolutely have to try SAWAYAKA!
It’s a Shizuoka-only hamburger steak chain, and there’s always a long line, so getting a seat can be tough. Once the hamburger steak arrives, the staff helps finish it at the table. The sizzling sound from the hot iron plate is seriously mouthwatering.
Even though it was my first visit, I had already researched my own way of eating it. I asked the staff not to pour the sauce while cooking it. That way, I could enjoy the natural flavor of the meat and also get the doneness more to my liking.
The patty itself is already seasoned, so it was still delicious even without any sauce. And when you want to switch up the flavor, the spicy sauce at the table is a perfect match! When the drinks are served, you can even clink glasses with the staff. Before, during, and after the meal, you can really feel how friendly the service is. The whole dining atmosphere is cheerful and fun, and I highly recommend it! -
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Universal Citywalk Osaka
This mixed-use commercial complex is located along the street connecting the large theme park "Universal Studios Japan" and JR Universal-City Station. The streets are filled with an American flavor, creating an extraordinary atmosphere fitting for the entrance to the park.
Since we were going into Universal Studios first thing the next morning, we stayed at a hotel near the park the day before.
This pedestrian street in front of the hotel has lots of chain restaurants, plus Takoyaki Park. Since we were already in Osaka, of course we had to get a serving!
You can also pick up merchandise at the official Universal Studios store, so it’s basically the perfect place to stock up before heading into the park! -
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Ginza-Dori street
Ginza-Dori street is one of Japan's most prestigious shopping districts with a sense of history and elegance. It is lined with department stores and high-end brand stores, rivaling New York's Fifth Avenue and London's Oxford Street.
Ginza is a symbol of Tokyo’s prosperity, and just about every major brand has a flagship store here. I remember seeing online a while ago that Ginza is the ultimate destination for shopping in Tokyo, and that really feels true.
During the day, the streets have a grand and elegant atmosphere. But at night, standing at the Ginza 4-chome intersection, you feel not only its history, but also a kind of glamour that belongs uniquely to Tokyo. -
