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.
Ginza-Dori street | Review by 金己田
Other Reviews by 金己田
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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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Ueno Park
Ueno Park, officially known as "Ueno Onshi Park," is located in Taito Ward, Tokyo. Managed by the Tokyo Metropolitan Construction Bureau, the park spans an impressive area of 530,000 square meters and has a rich history.
Ueno Park is one of Tokyo’s best-known cherry blossom spots, but I didn’t realize until I got there just how lively the hanami atmosphere would be.
Under the fully blooming cherry trees, people were everywhere—sitting on the ground, drinking, and hanging out. Around us were the sounds of food stalls and stage performances, and it honestly felt like a festival. It really showed me how passionate Japanese people are about cherry blossom viewing.
If you’re coming to Tokyo for cherry blossoms with a group of friends and want to drink, celebrate, and experience the energetic hanami culture, this would definitely be my top pick. -
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Aizu-Wakamatsu Station, Akabeko
JR Ban-etsusai Line, JR Tadami Line and Aizu Railway all converge at Aizu-Wakamatsu Station, a center in Aizu Region. Its building looks like a castle and is selected as one of the Top 100 stations of the Tohoku District. At the east entrance of the station, a big Akabeko greets everyone who visits Aizu, which is a popular photo spot.
I’d always known that Fukushima’s mascot is the red cow, but I didn’t expect to walk out of Aizu-Wakamatsu Station and actually be greeted by one right away!
All I can say is that this city feels completely taken over by red cows. You see them everywhere. Even the sightseeing loop bus had a red cow design. I got so influenced by it that when I saw a capsule toy machine in Nanukamachi, I couldn’t resist getting a red cow one as a souvenir. -
