Ginkaku-ji | Review by Gina C

I had planned to visit the Miyama Folk Museum in Miyama, Kyoto, to learn about the history and everyday culture of the area's traditional thatched-roof houses. Unfortunately, it happened to be closed this time, so I couldn't go inside, which was a little disappointing! Still, just walking around the village of Miyama gives you a strong sense of the Japanese countryside.

Miyama's most distinctive feature is its traditional homes with thatched roofs. Together with the surrounding forests, mountains, and natural scenery, they make you feel as though you've stepped into an old village where time has stood still.

The railroad crossing in front of Kamakurakōkōmae Station is an iconic location from the anime Slam Dunk! I'm sure many people immediately think of the scene in the opening where Sakuragi Hanamichi and Haruko meet as soon as they see this place. As one of the classic locations from Slam Dunk, it's definitely worth making a special pilgrimage here!

The blue ocean is right next to the crossing, and with the Enoden train slowly passing by, the whole scene is filled with the youthful feeling of a Japanese anime, as if you've actually stepped into an animated world. There are also many visitors who come specifically to take photos. Everyone wants to capture the iconic moment when the train passes, and seeing this familiar scene in person is truly exciting!

I bought Meiji Macadamia Chocolate in Japan, and as a chocolate lover, I really couldn't pass it up! The outside is coated in rich milk chocolate, with a macadamia nut inside. The combination of chocolate and macadamia nut is so flavorful!