If you want to try refined Japanese rice crackers, I highly recommend the upscale Akasaka shop Akasaka Kakiyama. Its rice crackers are delicate and bite-sized, with a crisp texture and elegant, subtle flavors that fully reflect the craftsmanship of top-quality Japanese confectionery. Each item comes in its own high-quality packaging, making it perfect for enjoying yourself or giving as a gift. There is a counter in the basement food hall of Shinjuku Takashimaya. Recommended for anyone who enjoys refined Japanese rice crackers!
Takashimaya Times Square | Review by Linda Liao
Other Reviews by Linda Liao
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Karuizawa Chocolate Ball MIX
Colorful and cute chocolates and rusks line up in the Bon Okawa Karuizawa chocolate factory. Belgian chocolates using strictly selected Cacao beans and fully sophisticated sweets by genuine traditional technique are well known. Assortment of Karuizawa Chocolate Ball in which bite-sized and rich chocolate-coated macadamia nuts is gorgeous product.
While strolling along Church Street in Karuizawa, I unexpectedly discovered Bon Okawa, an impressive chocolate shop! Its classic “Karuizawa Chocolate Ball MIX Deluxe Gift Box” comes in colorful, eye-catching wrappers that are irresistible just to look at.
The box brings together several popular flavors, with thin, crisp, richly flavored coatings around crunchy centers. The textures are wonderfully layered, and they're sweet without being overwhelming. I couldn't resist picking up several boxes. They're perfect for enjoying slowly myself or taking home to share this sweet taste of Karuizawa with family and friends.
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St. Paul's Catholic Church in Karuizawa
Nestled along “Waterwheel Lane,” just a short step off the main Old Karuizawa Ginza Street, this is the only Catholic church in Karuizawa.
Standing quietly in the forest of Old Karuizawa, St. Paul's Catholic Church is a classic wooden building designed by renowned architect Antonin Raymond. Its enormous, steeply pitched triangular roof blends perfectly with the natural wooden structure, while the exposed wooden beams and columns inside create a warm yet solemn atmosphere. Sunlight streams through the stained glass, weaving together poetic patterns of light and shadow. A walk here offers not only a peaceful respite from the noise and bustle, but also a profound experience of Karuizawa's unique beauty and romantic charm.
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Karuizawa French Bakery
Founded in 1951, Karuizawa French Bakery is a long-established bakery that has been cherished by locals and visitors alike. Located on Old Karuizawa Ginza Street, the shop is always bustling with vacation home residents and tourists. It is also famous for being a favorite of John Lennon, who frequently visited during his stays in Karuizawa.
When visiting Karuizawa, you absolutely shouldn’t miss the historic French Bakery. This long-established bakery is famous for having been a favorite of Beatles member John Lennon, and treasured photos of him still hang inside the shop.
The signature item is the French bread (Monovale), with a crisp, chewy crust and a firm interior filled with the aroma of wheat. The more you chew, the more you can savor its simple bread flavor. The rich apple pie and buttery croissants are also very popular. Picking up some freshly baked bread and hot coffee to enjoy on Old Karuizawa Ginza Street is one of the most authentic and relaxing ways to experience everyday life in Karuizawa.
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