Standing at Shibuya Scramble Crossing for the first time, what struck me most was the sheer density of the crowds. As soon as the light turns green, people from all directions instantly pour into the intersection, creating a spectacular, endless flow. Viewed from above, they look like a huge colony of ants moving neatly through the city. Seeing this in person, I could feel Tokyo's busy yet vibrant urban rhythm.
Shibuya Scramble Intersection | Review by Linda Liao
Other Reviews by Linda Liao
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Fukuoka Mitsukoshi
Fukuoka Mitsukoshi is located in Tenjin, Kyushu’s largest shopping and entertainment district. Set inside Solaria Terminal Building, a station building directly connected to Nishitetsu Fukuoka (Tenjin) Station, it is also linked to the underground shopping area and express bus terminal, making it an easy stop for travelers. Inside, you’ll find a wide range of shops offering cosmetics, fashion, jewelry and watches, lifestyle goods, and more, while the B1 floor features LACHIC Fukuoka Tenjin, a collection of trend-conscious select shops.
While visiting Fukuoka, I spent an evening browsing Mitsukoshi in the Tenjin shopping district to see if the department store had any new and interesting products. It happened to be Christmastime, so the whole store was filled with a festive atmosphere. The most eye-catching sight was Mitsukoshi’s iconic lion at the entrance, which was even dressed in an adorable Christmas outfit. I couldn’t help but stop to take a photo. It was just so cute.
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Tokugawaen
This Japanese garden was established in the ruins that used to be called “Ōzone Yashiki ” for Tokugawa Mitsutomo (1625-1700), the second lord of the Owari branch of the Tokugawa clan, to spend his retired life in 1695. The ground is said to have about 44 ha.
This time, I chose to visit Tokugawa Garden on an autumn evening and also see the illumination ceremony for the autumn festival. Although it wasn't yet the season when the maple leaves turn bright red, the garden scenery still looked especially romantic against the beautiful lighting.
The garden is designed in the traditional Japanese pond-centered strolling style and was originally the villa of Tokugawa Mitsutomo, the second lord of the Owari Tokugawa clan. Centered around a pond, the garden skillfully incorporates waterfalls, streams, bridges, and seasonal plants, showcasing the style of a feudal lord's garden from the Edo period.
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Washoku Miyoshi
Washoku Miyoshi in Matsuyama, Ehime Prefecture. This Japanese restaurant stands along Chifunemachi Street in central Matsuyama. It is dedicated to cooking that brings out the natural flavors of its ingredients, including using different dashi depending on the dish.
If you're visiting Matsuyama, Ehime, and want to enjoy refined Japanese cuisine, you can plan a meal at Washoku Miyoshi. It's a small Japanese restaurant with a warm atmosphere, serving carefully prepared dishes made with seasonal ingredients. From sashimi and grilled dishes to tempura, everything reflects the Japanese emphasis on ingredients and presentation. The setting is quiet and comfortable, making it a great place to savor the food at a leisurely pace. However, seating is limited, so if you're planning to have dinner or try a set course, it's best to make a reservation in advance to avoid missing out.
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