I used to exchange for Japanese yen in Taiwan before traveling, but after seeing SMART EXCHANGE this time, I realized these unmanned currency exchange machines are everywhere in Japan. If you suddenly need cash, you can exchange it right away, which really makes things much more convenient for tourists.
They’re especially useful at night when the banks are closed and you suddenly find yourself short on cash.
Animal Café 百奇夜行
An animal café that opened in 2024 just steps from Higashi Chaya District, a popular sightseeing spot in Kanazawa lined with traditional teahouse buildings.
The atmosphere inside is really unique, and all the animals are super cute. Being able to sip a drink while interacting with the little animals is so soothing. It’s a great spot for people who love taking photos or just love animals.
The overall interior design is also pretty distinctive, and before you know it, you’ve been there for quite a while.
That said, it can get crowded at certain times, and the more popular animals tend to have people gathered around them constantly. If you want to interact with them more comfortably, it’s probably better to go on a weekday.
Overall, it’s still definitely worth trying at least once, especially if it’s your first time at an animal café—it feels really fresh and fun.
Byodoin
An imperial authority in the Heian Period, Fujiwara Michinaga used this place as a vacation home. His son Yorimichi inherited, converted and opened it as a temple in 1052. It was designated as a World Heritage Site in 1994. The remodeling in 2014 brought it back closer to its original state. The main Amida Buddha statue in Amida Hall is worth a look. You will be amazed by the symmetrical beauty of the building.
The sound of the bell at Byodoin is truly calming. It feels like it cleanses your soul.
SAKUBI SAKURA
The pastel pink exterior of SAKUBI SAKURA leaves a lasting impression. This sightseeing train runs between JR Okayama Station and Tsuyama Station, and is a wonderful way to travel through the northern area of Okayama Prefecture, known for its famous hot springs-the Mimasaka Three Hot Springs-as well as scenic cherry blossom spots.
Sitting by the window and watching the scenery go by made the whole train ride worth it.
