The Starbucks in Kawagoe is designed in the style of a traditional Japanese kura-style townhouse, blending historic architecture with modern design beautifully. It has a charming old-town atmosphere.
The interior is comfortable and elegant, and enjoying coffee next to the garden feels especially relaxing. It’s one of Kawagoe’s popular photo spots.
Okamotoya Shop
Located in the heart of Myoban Onsen in Beppu City, Oita Prefecture, Okamotoya Shop is operated by Okamotoya Ryokan, a long-established inn with a history of over 150 years. Since 1988, the shop has been selling its signature Jigoku-Mushi® Pudding, earning its reputation as the original.
While visiting Beppu Myoban Onsen, I made a special trip to Okamotoya Shop. This long-established shop is best known for its Jigoku-Mushi Pudding. The pudding is steamed using hot spring steam, giving it a smooth texture and rich egg flavor. It's sweet without being too rich, and the slightly bitter caramel is just right. The shop also has quite a few Beppu specialty snacks. Eating dessert while taking in the sulfur aroma of Myoban Onsen feels very local. This trip to Beppu left me with some very special memories. If I have the chance, I'd love to come back for the Jigoku-Mushi Pudding again!
Kobe Meriken Park Oriental Hotel
With its curving design inspired by white waves, this striking hotel stands out in Kobe’s bay area. Located on Kobe Port’s Naka Pier, it is surrounded by the sea on three sides, offering four distinct views to the east, west, south, and north.
While taking a morning walk along Kobe Harbor, I unexpectedly came across the Kobe Meriken Park Oriental Hotel. My first impression was that it was very unique! Located by the harbor, the building has a distinctive design, and with the morning ocean view, it looked especially inviting and had a real vacation feel.
I was only passing by this time and didn’t stay there, which felt like a bit of a shame. Just seeing it from the outside made me want to experience it. If I come back to Kobe, I hope I can arrange to stay for a night, enjoy the relaxing atmosphere by the harbor, and take in the different daytime and nighttime views of Kobe Harbor.
Michi-no-Eki "Kyoda"
Yanbaru Products Center is located at Michi no Eki, Kyoda. It is the first " Michi-no-Eki " in Okinawa Prefecture and is located in the northern part of the main island. In addition to purchasing fresh vegetables and specialty products from Yanbaru, visitors can also have meals and refreshments. Some visitors come to the center to buy unique products that can only be found here.
While driving around Okinawa, we stopped at Michi-no-Eki Kyoda. Besides taking a break, getting something to eat, and browsing for souvenirs, you can also buy discounted tickets to the Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium here, so we specifically planned a stop to purchase them. Buying tickets on-site was very convenient. Once we had them, we could head straight to the aquarium without having to wait in line there to buy tickets.
Michi-no-Eki Kyoda itself is also fun to browse, with plenty of local Okinawan products and snacks. You can also pick up drinks and treats to recharge. For a road trip, it’s a very practical rest stop along the way.
If the Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium is on your itinerary and you’re driving, I think it’s worth stopping by Kyoda to take a break and buy your tickets before continuing to the next attraction. It makes the trip flow very smoothly!
