Japan 2023

Tanghulu

Japanese tanghulu is a popular street snack consisting of fruits, such as strawberries, grapes, and mandarins, coated in a crisp layer of hardened sugar. Unlike the traditional Chinese version, which uses hawthorn berries, Japanese tanghulu features a wider variety of fruits and often comes with creative twists like flavored sugar. It is commonly found in market areas, food stalls, and festival stands, especially in places like Osaka’s Dotonbori. The colorful appearance and satisfying crunch make it a trending treat. Tanghulu’s perfect balance of sweetness and freshness makes it a must-try snack in Japan.

Shibuya Hedgehog Cafe

Going to the Shibuya Hedgehog Cafe was a one of a kind experience that passed my expectations. From the moment I walked in, I was welcomed by the cozy atmosphere and cute hedgehogs running around in their comfortable enclosures. The staff were very knowledgeable and friendly, happily telling us all about these lovely animals. Each hedgehog had a unique style, and it was a great experience to play with them as they curled up and played. The highlight of the experience was to be able to hold the hedgehogs in your hands and feel the quills and their friendly nature. The care that the cafe took in the health of the hedgehogs was noticeable, and I could feel a high level of ethical responsibility from the workers. For anyone seeking something special and fun in Tokyo, I would recommend a trip to the Shibuya Hedgehog Cafe one afternoon. It was truly a great experience to have.

Nara Park

Nara Park was an immersive experience that went beyond my expectations. As soon as I stepped into the park, I was welcomed by the peaceful charm of nature and the presence of friendly deer that wandered freely. The beautiful scenery, with historical sites such as Todai-ji Temple, provided a picturesque setting for a wonderful day out. The deer were extremely friendly and tame, unless you had food in which case, they would eagerly run toward you if they spotted cookies or treats. Be aware that they might nibble a bit if you’re holding food or anything resembling it. This park is an excellent choice for a family vacation, offering a unique opportunity to observe the deer interacting with visitors as they enjoy their snacks. The clean walkways of the park made it a perfect spot for a leisurely stroll, a picnic, or simply sitting and enjoying the serene environment. Overall, Nara Park offers a beautiful blend of nature and culture, leaving every visitor with fond memories of their time there.

Yumoto, Hakone

Visiting Yumoto, Hakone was a different experience that I had never imagined before. The minute I arrived there, I was welcomed by the sounds of the rivers and the natural beauty of mountains surrounding the place. The peacefulness of the town along with its historical landmarks made it a perfect place for a recreational visit. The riverside walk was amazing, with the clear waters reflecting the beauty of the surrounding nature. There are also traditional little shops here and there, giving a glimpse of the local way of life. I especially enjoyed seeing the historical sites, like the centuries-old hot spring baths that have been promoting overall well-being of oneself. The feeling of being close to nature and history was a great experience. The highlight of the trip was being able to soak in the soothing hot springs, enjoying the the warmth of the water as we gazed out at the picture-perfect landscape. The locals were also extremely friendly, which contributed to the experience, making it easy to get around. I would highly recommend a visit to Yumoto, Hakone, to anyone seeking a relaxing retreat with a bit of history. It's definitely a place where nature and tradition come together to create an experience worth remembering.

Japan 2023

Tanghulu

Shibuya Hedgehog Cafe

Nara Park

Yumoto, Hakone

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