Hie Shrine is located in the heart of Tokyo and is known for its vivid red rows of torii gates, which feel both majestic and unique.
The atmosphere is quiet and peaceful, with a strong sense of history and culture. It’s also a popular shrine for praying for career success, safety, and good relationships.
Isetan Shinjuku
The main branch “Shinjuku Isetan”, designated a historical landmark of Tokyo, is an old department store made up of several buildings, such as one mainly specializing in men’s items, and the Isetan Kaikan that mostly comprises restaurants and cafés.
When traveling in Japan, of course you can't miss Isetan! As soon as you walk in, you can feel the upscale, stylish shopping atmosphere. It has everything from clothing and cosmetics to household goods and food, with such a wide variety of products that it's really easy to accidentally buy too much.
On this visit to Isetan, I especially enjoyed taking my time choosing what I needed and checking out local Japanese brands and specialty products. The basement food hall in particular was so much fun to browse that I didn't want to leave!
Hida-Furukawa Station
A station on the JR Takayama Main Line in Hida City, Gifu Prefecture. Opened in 1934, the wooden station building features white walls and a tiled roof that blend beautifully with Furukawa’s townscape. The tourist information center next to the station building provides brochures and other services, making it a convenient starting point for exploring the town. About a 5-minute walk from the station, you’ll find the carp-filled Setogawa Canal and the Shirakabe Dozogai district, where you can enjoy a stroll through the traditional atmosphere of Hida.
Hida-Furukawa Station is located in Gifu Prefecture and is an important station for getting to the town of Hida-Furukawa. Although the station itself isn't large, it has plenty of local character, and the surrounding area is very quiet, giving it a completely different feel from busy big-city stations.
What impressed me most when I visited Hida-Furukawa Station was the relaxed, rustic atmosphere around it. After leaving the station, you can take your time enjoying the town's streets, traditional architecture, and natural scenery. There are no crowded throngs of people, making it especially pleasant to walk around.
If you've seen Your Name, this place will feel even more familiar, and the scenes from the movie add a dreamlike quality to Hida-Furukawa.
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.
Universal Citywalk Osaka is filled with a strong movie-themed atmosphere. Both sides of the street are lined with all kinds of shops, restaurants, and distinctive decorations. Even before entering the attractions area, you can already feel the cheerful atmosphere, and walking around really feels like stepping into the world of movies.
During my visit, I saw all kinds of cute character merchandise, souvenirs, and specialty foods along the way, and I couldn't help browsing and taking photos the whole time.
