I-YOKAN SHIKA SHINAI is a recently launched souvenir inspired by Ehime's specialty citrus fruit and made into madeleines. They have a naturally sweet and tart citrus aroma, and the cake is moist and soft. They taste refreshing without being overly sweet. Compared with the traditional Ehime souvenirs commonly available, these feel fresh and new. I highly recommend trying them. I happened to spot them at a local 7-Eleven and bought them right away.
I-YOKAN SHIKA SHINAI！ | Review by Linda Liao
Other Reviews by Linda Liao
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Amanohashidate View Land
Sat atop Mt. Monjuyama, Amanohashidate Viewland offers panaromic views from the south of Amanohashidate. Here you’ll find Matanozokidai, a outlook point nicknamed “Hiryukan” for its views of the Amanohashinodate that looks like a dragon climbing into the heavens.
Amanohashidate, one of Japan's Three Scenic Views, had long been on my bucket list, so I made a special point of adding it to this Kansai trip and finally checked it off my list. It takes about 2–2.5 hours by train from Kyoto or about 2.5–3 hours from Osaka. Although it’s not a short journey, the beautiful scenery makes it all worthwhile.
I visited during cherry blossom season, and several cherry trees near the observation deck were in beautiful bloom. From the right angle, you can capture the soft pink blossoms together with the winding stretch of Amanohashidate. The bay, pine forest, and cherry blossoms blend together like a landscape painted by nature itself.
Looking down at this scenery from above, I couldn’t help but marvel at the wonders of nature. I never knew such a breathtaking view could be hidden between the mountains and the sea. 🌸✨
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Inuyama Castle Town
This castle town stretches south from Inuyama Castle, a famous castle built in 1537 and designated a National Treasure. Miraculously spared from the ravages of war for more than 480 years, both the castle and castle town still retain the original town layout based on the defensive castle structure known as sogamae. With its old-world atmosphere and manageable size, it is perfect for a leisurely stroll.
Walking from Inuyama Station toward Inuyama Castle, you’ll pass through a castle town shopping street full of traditional Japanese charm. The old-fashioned streetscape has been preserved, and each little shop has its own character, so you won’t get bored while strolling and browsing. I also ran into a lot of Taiwanese people along the way. Hearing familiar Chinese instantly made me feel at home 😂 It seems Inuyama Castle really is a popular stop for many people visiting Nagoya. There are also plenty of snacks and souvenirs to buy along the way. It’s very relaxing to pick up a small snack and eat it while walking.
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Tanimoto Kamaboko-Ten, Dogo
Tanimoto Kamaboko-ten is a long-standing Kamaboko shop established in 1916. Traditional techniques had been inherited by craftsmen with a first class in the national qualification as a fish paste product manufacturing technician.
When visiting Ehime, I highly recommend trying the local fish cakes. Tanimoto Kamaboko-ten makes a variety of fish cakes from fresh fish paste. Once grilled or heated, the fish flavor becomes richer, with a lightly charred exterior and a springy, tender texture. This type of fish cake comes from the food culture of the Seto Inland Sea coast, where fish are abundant. In the past, people ground fresh fish into paste and processed it to make it easier to preserve and to make full use of the catch. Today, it comes in many flavors and is one of Ehime's most representative local foods.
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