Nanzenji Temple is a very famous Zen temple in Kyoto. As soon as you enter the grounds, you can feel a solemn and peaceful atmosphere. The temple is surrounded by greenery, and the old buildings blend with the natural scenery, making you slow down without even realizing it.
During this visit to Nanzenji Temple, what impressed me most were the majestic Sanmon Gate and the historic red-brick Suirokaku Aqueduct. Standing beneath the aqueduct and admiring its arched brick structure, the blend of classical and retro atmosphere felt very special. It's also a great place to take photos as keepsakes.
Nanzenji Temple | Review by Gina C
Other Reviews by Gina C
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Kitakaro "Hokkaido Pioneer Okaki"
Kitakaro’s long-selling product, "Hokkaido Pioneer Okaki," is known for its dedication to using locally sourced ingredients from Hokkaido. Focusing on the treasures of the sea, this premium rice cracker lineup includes 10 varieties featuring top-quality ingredients such as squid from Hakodate, sweet shrimp from Mashike, autumn salmon from Shibetsu, scallops from Esashi, kelp from Erimo, octopus from Shiranuka, and cod roe from Tomakomai’s Kojohama, along with three popular seasonal offerings.
Kitakaro Hokkaido Pioneer Okaki won me over with its crispy texture. Each small rice cracker is very aromatic, with a subtle rice flavor and savory saltiness that makes it hard to stop eating. Although it looks simple, it has an unpretentious flavor that never gets old.
After trying it, I found that it wasn't too oily or overly salty, making it light and easy to eat. -
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Manzamo
Manzamo remains one of Okinawa’s most coveted, scenic destinations at its spot along the coast of the East China Sea in Onna Village, a town near the heart of Okinawa Island. The name "Manzamo" comes from the Ryukyu word for "field”, and it is said that in 1726, King Sho Kei of the Ryukyu Kingdom praised the area, saying it was "large enough to seat ten thousand people”.
Manzamo is a very famous natural attraction in Okinawa. Its most well-known feature is the massive coral reef rock formation that extends out over the sea like an elephant's trunk. Looking down from the cliff, you can see the endless deep-blue ocean, and the view is truly spectacular.
Visiting Manzamo in person this time, the sea breeze felt very pleasant. Standing high above and taking in the view of the sea and sky blending together made me feel completely relaxed. -
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Dotonbori
Crab, octopus, cow, crane….these are just a few of the oversized 3D signboards that make up the look and feel of the bustling Dotonbori Area. Its packed with a number of eateries along the northern Dotonbori River and main street along its southern side.
On this visit to Dotonbori, what I looked forward to most was eating my way through the area! Takoyaki, okonomiyaki, ramen, and kushikatsu all looked incredibly tempting. Eating while strolling around and taking a photo of the iconic Glico sign really made it feel like I was in Osaka.
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