Several years ago, I came to exhibit at Tokyo Big Sight, and its futuristic architecture still leaves a strong impression on me! The most recognizable feature of the familiar “Tokyo Big Sight” is its Conference Tower, made up of four inverted pyramids. Combined with glass and metal, it’s highly distinctive even from a distance. The venue opened in 1996 and is one of Japan’s largest exhibition centers. From international trade shows and industry exhibitions to anime events, all kinds of large-scale events are held here almost year-round. As impressive as the exterior looks, the space inside is even more astonishingly vast. The East, West, and South Exhibition Halls are spread out over a wide area, and just walking around all day is exhausting~ When I left the venue that evening, there was only one thought on my mind: find somewhere to have dinner and recharge as soon as possible.
Tokyo Big Sight (Tokyo International Exhibition Hall) | Review by Linda Liao
Other Reviews by Linda Liao
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Ishinomaki Genki Ichiba
Along the Kitakami River, a 2-story market stands at the heart of Ishinomaki City. The merchandise section on the 1st floor provides fresh seafood from Ishinomaki Port.
311大地震與海嘯重創宮城縣石卷市，許多商家、工廠及工作場所遭到破壞，當地水產加工業也面臨產品失去銷售通路的困境。為了協助在地業者恢復生計，同時重新帶動石卷市中心的商業與觀光，當地企業與相關業者共同推動了這座市場。
石卷元氣市場於 2017 年 6 月 30 日開幕，以販售當地新鮮魚貨、水產加工品、農產品及地方特產為主，並設有美食區，讓遊客能直接品嚐石卷的在地料理。它不只是購物與用餐的地方，更肩負著協助地方產業復甦、創造就業機會，以及重新凝聚市區人潮的使命。
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A, La, Date Roadside Station
A large roadside station located along National Route 47 in Osaki City, Miyagi Prefecture. With convenient access to Naruko Onsenkyo, one of Japan’s leading hot spring areas, it is a popular stop that attracts over 3 million visitors a year. Inside, you’ll find a souvenir shop, a farmers market, and dining options, where you can enjoy shopping for local ingredients and specialty products as well as local food.
After wrapping up our trip to Naruko Onsen and before heading to our next stop, we went out of our way to stop by A, La, Date Roadside Station to stock up on food. I didn't expect it to be such a treasure trove of local specialties! Inside, there were all kinds of local agricultural products, fresh fruits and vegetables, and souvenirs from Miyagi Prefecture. It was also convenient for picking up snacks for the road. What especially caught my eye were the edamame-flavored specialties. From cookies to all kinds of snacks, edamame was everywhere, and just looking at them made me want to pick out a few to try.
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Kokin-denju-no-sato Yamato
Everything you need and more awaits at this roadside station, packed full with handy tips at the tourist information center, a local products shop, a free foot bath, restaurants, and a workshop for making ice cream and yogurt. Connected just next door is the local vegetable market, Yamato Onsen Yasuragi-kan hot spring, and the Fairfield by Marriott Gifu Gujo hotel, ensuring there's plenty to enjoy for a whole day.
Ever since I watched a Japanese TV show featuring roadside stations around the country, whenever I pass one during a trip, I can’t resist stopping to hunt for local-exclusive souvenirs or regional specialties. This time, at Kokin-denju-no-sato Yamato, what I was looking forward to most was the well-known charcoal-grilled sweetfish! When I arrived, the fish had just been skewered and were lined up neatly beside the charcoal fire, so I had to wait patiently. When I finally got my piping-hot grilled sweetfish, the skin had a smoky charcoal aroma, and it was delicious with just a simple sprinkle of salt. The tender meat was fresh, sweet, and juicy, and the more I chewed, the more I could taste the natural flavor of the fish. Before leaving, I also soaked my feet in the free foot bath, giving my tired feet a chance to relax after walking all day. It was such an unexpected and soothing little treat during the trip!
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