Taiyaki Kanda Daruma, AKIHABARA | Review by Eddie

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Taiyaki Kanda Daruma, AKIHABARA

A shop famous for its Taiyaki, offering a delightful combination of crispy and chewy textures.

1 Oct 2026 See More

I came to Tokyo in May and originally planned to buy a regular-colored taiyaki, but the moment I saw the black one, I immediately thought, “Oh my gosh, you don’t come across this very often!” 😂

So I switched to the black one right away. The outside had a slight aroma, and the red bean filling inside was very smooth and soft. The sweetness was just right, so it didn’t become too rich after only a few bites. It was unexpectedly delicious.

Since the weather was already getting warm in May, the shop also offered chilled flavors in addition to the original. I couldn’t resist buying the black one first this time, so I didn’t get to try the other flavors. If I get the chance next time, I definitely want to try them all!

The location is also a huge plus. Just take the Ginza Line to G14 Suehirocho Station, and it’s right outside the station, so you don’t have to spend any time looking for it. Afterward, you can take a walk and browse around Akihabara along the way. The location is really great and very convenient!

Other Reviews by Eddie

SNOOPY Chaya Yufuin

Located in some of Japan’s most popular tourist destinations, SNOOPY Chaya offers a unique chance to step into the world of the globally beloved beagle Snoopy and his PEANUTS friends while also experiencing the charm of the local area.
- Oita
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30 Sep 2026 See More

I visited Yufuin in December and came across a SNOOPY collaboration shop while walking around. It was a nice surprise, and anyone who likes SNOOPY would probably have a hard time resisting stopping to take a few photos. Unfortunately, I was short on time that day, so I couldn't go inside. I just took a few photos at the entrance and left.

After I got back, I looked it up on Google and found out that they not only have all kinds of SNOOPY collaboration merchandise, but also matcha soft serve, which looked really tempting. If I'd known they had all that inside, I probably would have tried harder to make time to look around.

This trip also made me realize that for a place like Yufuin, I really shouldn't join a tour next time. Traveling independently would suit me better. On group tours, you often just get off the bus at an attraction, take some photos, walk around briefly, and then have to rush back to the bus when time is up. There isn't enough time to go into many of the shops you want to see. It was a bit of a shame that I could only take photos outside this time. I'll have to save it for next time and explore at a more relaxed pace.
Kokura Castle

Hosokawa Tadaoki helped in the victory of the Battle of Sekigahara, entered the area and started building a castle in 1602. It took seven years to complete. Then, it was occupied by Lord Ogasawara, but all but the stone wall was burned down in 1866. After WWII, upon the citizens’ fervent request, the castle tower was rebuilt.
- Mojiko, Kokura
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29 Sep 2026 See More

When visiting Kokura, of course you can't miss Kokura Castle. The castle isn't particularly large, but walking around the castle ruins and gardens, you can still get a sense of an old Japanese castle.

What I liked most was seeing Kokura Castle from different angles. The white walls paired with the dark roof look clean and neat. The surrounding trees and moat also give the whole area a quieter feel, so it doesn't feel like the kind of place where you just come to take photos, check in, and leave after seeing it.

If you happen to be traveling in Kitakyushu, I think it's worth setting aside some time to walk around here. There's no need to rush your itinerary—take your time exploring the area around the castle, look at the streets, and get a feel for how Kokura has a slightly different atmosphere from other big cities.
Ritsurin Garden

Used as a villa by the Matsudaira clan of Takamatsu, Ritsurin Garden was completed nearly 300 years ago by successive generations of feudal lords who renovated it. While the sprawling strolling garden covers 16 hectares, the total area of this park, including Mount Shiun in the background, extends to an impressive 75 hectares!
- Takamatsu
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28 Sep 2026 See More

I arrived at Higurashi-tei in Ritsurin Garden just before evening, as the light in the garden was gradually growing softer, making it especially pleasant to walk around.

The maple leaves had also turned red, and as I walked along the pond, I occasionally saw broad stretches of red reflected on the water. I couldn't help but stop and take a few extra moments to look. Together with the pine trees and traditional buildings in the garden, it naturally created an autumn atmosphere.

I wasn't in any particular hurry to get anywhere, so I just strolled slowly through the garden, took photos, and enjoyed the scenery in front of me. By evening, Ritsurin Garden had become much quieter, which made it even easier to appreciate the character of the garden.