Aug 26, 2018
Vietnamese Food in Nagoya
There are a fair number of places to eat Vietnamese food in Nagoya. Being from Seattle I have torn the place apart searching for the style of PHO that is so popular there, but it seems to be a US concoction. It does come pretty close though, and you can get actual PHO here in Japan. You will pay about 1000 yen for a bowl of it though; be prepared for that. They also have that Vietnamese Coffee; if you have not tried it, I suggest you do. Very tasty and highly caffeinated.
Annam Blue
As usual, my favorite spot is not “the best” place to go in Nagoya. I prefer Annan Blue mostly because I am lazy and there is a restaurant near my apartment. The food is good, and it is reasonably priced; expect to pay about 2500-3000 per person to eat there for dinner, and about 1000-2000 yen for lunch. This is a chain, so you can pop into any one of their locations in Nagoya and expect to get mostly the same quality of Vietnamese food and service at each.
Shops are located in Sakae, Fukiage, and Kanayama
Thu an
Having never been to Vietnam it is hard for me to comment on the authenticity of one restaurant over another, but “they” say that the most authentic Vietnamese food in Nagoya is here at Thu An, in Yagoto. The chef who owns the shop has over 20 years of experience cooking Vietnamese food, and was once the “Vice Chef,” which sounds pretty important(!) at a five-star hotel in Ho Chi Minh City, and has prepared food for “world class” VIPs like the British Royal Family. Granted, I bet the Royal rump has graced the stalls at McDonald’s too, but I am guessing in this case the boast is appropriate.
Thu An is located within 5 minutes’ walk of Yagoto station. – (Google Map)
Other Restaurants
You can find different results with this Google map where we have pre-entered the right terms for you.
https://goo.gl/maps/rziZhdRiXw52
Aug 24, 2018
English Language Comedy in Tokyo
Tokyo’s thriving comedy scene offers a wide range of comedians performing around the city; in English!
Below are a few comedy clubs and troupes that you can find in the city.
Tokyo Comedy Store
Tokyo Comedy store is mainly about standup and improv comedy – the kinds of comedy that will be most recognizable to people from the US, UK, and other English speaking nations – although different styles, such as sketch or musical, are also represented. They also host improv lessons and offer shows, seminars, and workshops for companies, private groups, and charities.
- Where: Held at various venues around the city. See website for details
- Website: tokyocomedy.com
Good Heavens Comedy Club
Good Heavens Comedy Club is Stand-up Tokyo’s flagship comedy show in the hip neighborhood of Shimokitazawa. Held in the Good Heavens British Bar, it is Tokyo’s only weekly comedy show (every Wednesday). Featuring a line-up of Tokyo’s best stand-up comedians, some newer comics trying out the mic for the first few times, as well as established acts such as Stuart Goldsmith, Phil Wang, and Hannibal Buress, it is just 1,500 JPY to enter, which includes a drink.
- Where: Setagaya, Daizawa５chome３２−５ (map)
- Website: standuptokyo.com
The Pirates of Tokyo Bay Improv Comedy Show
Having been going for some seven years now, The Pirates of Tokyo Bay are one of the longest-running – if not the longest running – bilingual improv comedy groups. Great for mixed-heritage couples (where one is Japanese, and the other is an English speaker), the group performs short skits, or games, in the ‘Whose Line is it Anyway’ mold that are just two or three minutes long, which means if one game doesn’t make you laugh, then another one will be coming along soon! Shows are held monthly. See their schedule for details.
- Where: What The Dickens, 4f Roob 6 Bldg, 1-13-3 Ebisu Nishi, Shibuya (map)
- Website: piratesoftokyobay.com
Craft Beer and Comedy Sumo Slam
Combining two of life’s greatest pleasures – beer and laughter – the Craft Beer and Comedy night at Two Dogs Taproom in Roppongi is a twice-monthly event where six comedians are split into two teams battling to for points and the audience’s laughter with improvised stand-up and topical jokes. It falls under the Stand-up Tokyo umbrella, so quality is – as much as it can be – assured.
- Where: 3 Chome-15-24 Roppongi, Minato (map)
- Website: standuptokyo.com/regular-shows
Rakugo in English
Rakugo, literally “fallen words”, is a form of Japanese stand up (though sat down) comedy where a lone storyteller sits on stage and using only a paper fan and a small cloth as props depict a long and complicated comical story. You may have seen this classic comedy style that goes back to the Edo era on TV or perhaps if you have been to Kabuki. These free (as in no charge) English language events do not come around often, so when they do you really should check it out.
- Where: Shinjuku Bunka Center Small Hall, 6-14-1 Shinjuku (map)
- Website: rakugo-in-english.com
For up to the minute details of what shows are playing where keep an eye on the Stand-up Tokyo Facebook page, or Tokyo Comedy Meetup.
By Mark Guthrie
Image via http://www.shitacome.jp/2017/#program-index – screengrab (modified)
Image by Joe Lodge (Own work) [CC BY-SA 2.0], via flickr.com (modified)
Aug 22, 2018
Where to Go on a Date in Kobe
Whether looking to entertain on the first date or to have a memorable Valentine’s evening with a long-term partner, Kobe has plenty of fun and romantic places to choose from if you’re looking to go on a date. From going for a nice meal to heading somewhere to enjoy the beautiful views that the city has to offer, we list the pick of the bunch for those occasions when there might be a little bit of love in the air.
Visit the world’s most beautiful Starbucks
If you want something to break the ice on a first date – then a chat over a coffee is always a good idea. Starbucks might not sound like the most romantic venue to take someone on a date, but then the Starbucks in Kobe is not your standard coffee outlet. It’s even been called “the world’s most beautiful Starbucks.” Situated in Kitano, the building is a beautiful European-style construction recognized as a Cultural Heritage site. Decked out with art, antiques and leather sofas, it has a touch of class if you’re looking to impress. You can enjoy a pleasant walk up Kitano-zaka hill on the way there too.
Website: Starbucks Kobe Kitano Ijinkan
Take a stroll over Akashi Kaikyo Bridge
Situated between the mountains and Osaka Bay, Kobe has no shortage of beauty spots where you can soak up the atmosphere on a sunny evening with a partner. One of the most spectacular is the Akashi Kaikyo Bridge. The longest suspension bridge in the world, it spans nearly 4000m and links Kobe City with Awaji Island. You can marvel at this amazing architecture and enjoy fantastic panoramic views from the top. If you have time, you can also visit the nearby Bridge Exhibition Centre and Maiko Marine Promenade.
Website: http://www.jb-honshi.co.jp/english/bridgeworld/index.html
Sample some Kobe beef in a local steakhouse
Kobe beef is the city’s signature dish. It comes from the wagyu cattle in Hyogo Prefecture and is renowned for its melt-in-the-mouth taste. If you’re looking for a restaurant date, this could be a winner. The beef is served as shabu-shabu (dipped in broth), sashimi (raw), sukiyaki (hotpot) and steak. There are many excellent local restaurants to choose from, including Wakkoqu, Meriken Hatoba, and Kokubu. Just check that your date is not vegetarian first!
Website for Wakkoqu: http://www.wakkoqu.com/english/index.html
Website for Meriken Hatoba: https://ichibankobe.com/localinfomation/hatoba/
Website for Kokubu: https://tabelog.com/en/hyogo/A2801/A280101/28000254/
Gaze at the stars from the City Hall Observatory
If you want to take things up a notch concerning romance, all you have to do is look up towards the sky. Kobe has one of the best night views in Japan and plenty of vantage points to indulge in a spot of stargazing. One of the best is on the 24th floor of the Kobe City Hall. This observatory area is free, open until 10:00 p.m. each night and has a cafe and restaurant.
Website: http://www.city.kobe.lg.jp/information/about/building/24kai_lobby.html
Have some fun at the Kobe Animal Kingdom
If you fancy something a bit different, Kobe has many activities, sports and exciting places to visit on offer. One good option for a daytime date is the Kobe Animal Kingdom, which is a large theme park containing animals, rare birds, and exotic plants. Events and performances run daily, including bird displays and feeding the capybara. There are a restaurant and shops on site too.
Website: https://www.kobe-oukoku.com/
Indulge yourself in a romantic cruise
For an extraordinary time, the two of you can enjoy a romantic cruise around Kobe Bay on Luminous 2, one of the biggest cruise ships in Japan. You can choose from three cruises: Osaka Bay cruise (available from 12:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m. or 4:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.); Kobe Airport cruise (5:00 p.m. – 6:20 p.m.); or Akashi Strait cruise (7:00 p.m. – 9:20 p.m.). All three cruises come with meal options, or you can choose to spend some romantic time on deck.
Website: https://www.luminouskobe.co.jp/english/
By 663highland [GFDL, CC-BY-SA-3.0 or CC BY 2.5 ], from Wikimedia Commons
Aug 22, 2018
Specialty Gift and Souvenir Shops in Kobe
There’s always room in the luggage for a trinket or two to bring home or give to friends as souvenirs from your trip. Refrigerator magnets, keychains, t-shirts, and delicacies are the usual fare, and always there’s the name of the city or country engraved or stamped on these items. For those who have time to shop for unique and top quality souvenirs and gifts, you’d need a more detailed guide to the best finds.
Souvenirs and boxed sweets from Japan are to look out for from friends and family. There are that special presentation and feel of these gifts that make your heart skip a beat. There are different items that you could find in the country that will surely cater to the young and old alike especially since it’s the home of anime and the sweetest and most decadent fruits and pastries. If you happen to be in Kobe, here’s a quick rundown of the shops that you might want to visit for some awesome treats to take home.
Kobe Sanda Premium Outlets
If your loved ones are not into traditional Japanese souvenirs or treats, here’s a massive shopping complex where you can buy high end branded gifts. It’s pretty much similar to other outlet malls worldwide, but of course, the hint that you’re in Japan is a food court where you can slurp through a bowl of ramen or have a fill of the all-time favorite sushi. There’s WiFi and plenty of seats so you can relax after walking around.
Moriya Shop
Right on that busy corner near the Daimaru department store is a proverbial butcher shop that sells Japanese croquettes with a humongous following. You won’t get lost while locating this shop because there’s always a long line in front. Whether you’re curious or you love croquettes, when folks say it’s a must try then the long wait will be worth it.
Kitano Meister Garden
What better way to shop for gifts than to create gifts and souvenirs. You don’t have to worry about not having a clue of what to do because this shop has arts and crafts classes for all ages. It’s fun and educational, so you don’t just create your masterpiece, you get to learn how, too.
Kobe Tetsujin Sangokushi Gallery
You won’t be able to miss the 18-meter tall statue of Tetsujin 28 or Gigantor in the American adaptation as it’s close to the shop where you can buy limited offer merchandise that you might want to give to family and friends who’re fans of this robot. Another comic showcased here is the Sangokushi Kuan. Its based on a Chinese novel called the Romance of the Three Kingdoms. Nearby the Kobe Project Shop is the occasional farmer’s market with a wide selection of food and drinks and small music festivals.
Marineair Mart 1 & 2
Sometimes when you’re in town just for work, and you mostly spent your time in an office, you tend to check out souvenirs at the airport because it’s the only time you have unless you got to the airport close to boarding time. If you’re in Kobe and in that similar dilemma, you can check out these cluster of stores offering antique souvenirs, sweet treats, and different odds and ends. If you have a bit more time, visit the Kawasaki museum.
Tandey Found Tablet
Although it has a western flair, as Kobe is known for, their minimalistic style of clothing and other gift items give a Japanese vibe to it. It’s a shop that has a cozy, warm and relaxing feel so shopping around won’t make you feel all to hurried. You’ll be able to choose well and appropriately for your loved ones and yourself. It’s the sister store to Tandey, a handmade bag shop, and also sells organic items.
Voyageur 4th Store
Women who love costume jewelry will love this shop to bits. You can custom make your trinkets or purchase ready made ones to get ideas from if you have no clue how to put together one for yourself or your friends and family. Materials are 18 karat gold, titanium, brass, and resin. Their customer service is ready to help you with repairs or exchange of parts or metal allergies.
VIVO, VA
If you or you know someone who loves antique furniture, decor and personal effects, this is the store for you. Every piece that you see here is the owners’ preference so you’d expect them to be special and one of a kind. Japanese artists make the items so you know they’re not easy to find elsewhere and you get to bring home a piece of their culture, too.
There are a lot of cultures that are particular with bringing home gifts for friends and family members. No matter how small the present is, it speaks volumes because it means you remembered them even when you’re far away. It’s a tradition that embodies care, kindness, selflessness, and love that has survived through generations.
By Yukiko Goto Kobe [CC BY-SA 4.0 ], from Wikimedia Commons
Aug 20, 2018
8 Most Popular Noodle Shops in the Kansai Region
Ramen is one of the most iconic Japanese dishes the world over. Although it might not come with that luscious, silky and super flavorful umami broth and chewy noodles all the time, when you say ramen, in whatever form it is, it is synonymous to comfort food and people just adore it. Ramen noodle shops are popular in a lot of countries and they have their own take in this superbly filling dish.
Japan is also home to other noodle dishes, not just ramen. Some of which are soba, udon, and shirataki. Their texture, cooking and presentation styles vary. Whether they are slurped from the bowl, dipped, eaten without or less soup, eaten cold or as an addition to a dish, everybody loves it. If you happen to be in the Kansai region, here are some of the beloved noodle shops that you shouldn’t miss.
Ide Shoten, Wakayama
Before social media led us to so many ramen options, here’s one that was declared by a TV program to be the best in Japan. Visit on weekdays if that’s at all possible so you don’t have to wait in line for an hour as is customary on weekends. The thick tonkotsu shoyu broth and chewy noodles would be able to give you an explanation why the locals keep coming back for more.
Kadoya Shokudou Honten
Osaka has been known for their ramen and this is the shop to go to if you want to try a bowl from a Michelin graded establishment. Just like any popular restaurant, expect a queue and the insides to be packed to the brim. Their all-time favorite Chuka soba, or Chinese style noodles, coupled with a simple dark-colored chicken flavored broth and a strip of nori right smack in the middle blanketing a piece of char siu and golden noodles is a force to be reckoned with.
Ryukishin RIZE
The milky creamy thick broth made of natural salt and fresh mussels is a unique take on ramen broth since it’s usually either chicken or pork bone. Flavors as deep as the ocean where the seashells are from will envelop your senses and fill you with a new found love of this seafood ramen. Check out their menu for other seasonal offerings and who knows what else you’ll find yourself falling in love with.
Resshi Shoyu Menkobo Sanku
It’s not just the cut of meat that’s as wide as the bowl that’ll surprise you. It’s the niboshi broth made of dried sardines that’ll take your breath away. If you think it’s going to smell fishy, well think again. Everyone says it’s amazingly not an inch fishy at all. Just like other popular ramen varieties, the soup is thick, rich and ultra tasty.
Chuka soba Uemachi
Since the chef was from one of the top-rated noodle houses in this list, Kadoya, you’ll surely expect nothing but purely delicious Chuka soba this time with his own creative flair. The latter is a must try but if you’re into something fancy and interesting, try out their tsuke-men. The dipping method is quite fun while satisfying your hunger and senses.
Men Factory Jaws
This extraordinary named noodle shop isn’t just for men, yes, women could slurp their way to a bowl of their famous pork bone and fish flavored ramen with trimmings of pork cuts, egg, and other condiments. This Hawaiian styled shop serves their bowls in different sizes that cater to all levels of appetite.
Kyoto Gogyo
Have you ever heard of burnt ramen? Yes, it’s burnt ramen because the miso based broth is cooked in 300 degrees celsius lard that is heated in a wok with sparkling orange flames in their kitchen. It’s a must try when you’re in Kyoto because you know that when there’s something unusual and entertaining it’s worth waiting 40 minutes over.
Enishi
Maze-soba is definitely something out of the ordinary when it comes to noodles. It’s tantanmen, spicy Chinese ramen with the mincemeat toppings, but without the broth. The spicy sauce is hot and will send tingles to your mouth and down your throat. But it’s that kind of spicy pain that you’d surely want to experience all over again when you get to taste this awesome saucy dish.
This list is just the very tip of the iceberg because there are so many noodles houses across the Kansai region that will surely satisfy your ramen, soba and udon cravings not to mention the most fascinating and unique twists in the noodle kingdom. The varieties are endless, plus you can have more in a day without breaking the bank because a bowl of noodles isn’t so expensive that you can have it for breakfast, lunch, dinner and even as a snack in between.
By melvil [CC BY-SA 4.0 ], from Wikimedia Commons
Aug 20, 2018
Trekking in the Kansai Region
Exploring the flora, fauna and historical attractions of a new place is sometimes the best way to appreciate it. Some people might think just walking around in the more populous parts of a city or country and enjoying their cuisine is good enough to experience what the place has to offer. Others find it more satisfying when traversing rivers, standing in awe at the foot of waterfalls, hiking up the steep slopes and stopping by at temples and shrines. There’s that magical feeling every time you are in touch with nature and history that’s utterly priceless.
Japan, especially in the Kansai region, has a lot to offer in the hiking and trekking department. There are different hiking levels that will suit you and the people you’re traveling with. Certain routes are awesome for kids and the elderly so you don’t have to worry about not experiencing the best of the region because you have to consider your companion’s welfare. Tours range from nature tours, pilgrimage tours, village tours or a mix of everything. Here’s a quick look at some of the places where you can get a fascinating glimpse of the beauty of Kansai.
Mount Kongō, Osaka
It’s so famous that ships and other naval vessels are named after it. What do you expect to experience hiking up the tallest mountain in Osaka? Visitors pay homage to one of the most revered peaks of the region during the winter season because it’s quite rare to see snow in this city. It’s also the birthplace of a native religion, Shugendo, and in 1330 was the site of a battle between the imperial loyalists and the Shogunate.
Mt. Ikoma, Nara and Osaka
Located on the border of Nara and Osaka Prefectures, this famous picnic spot is a part of the Kongō-Ikoma-Kisen Quasi-National Park. It’s also the home to the Ikoma Sanjo Amusement Park, a shrine, a temple and one of the “Sixty-Eight National Views”. If you’re also in Japan for the cherry blossoms, you’re in luck here because you’ll see them along the way from the mountain temple to the town.
Mount Yoshino, Nara
Another famous cherry blossom spot is this mountain that is also known as Yoshinoyama in Nara Prefecture. The most beautiful and picturesque blooms have been viewed here for centuries. It was said that its 30,000 sakura trees of different varieties were planted around 1300 years ago. It’s best to visit and trek the mountain in late March or early April.
Mount Bunagatake, Shiga
It takes a day to hike to the highest peak in the Hira mountains in Shiga Prefecture but with the series of trails branching from it, you’d probably want to stay longer to explore the beauty of the village, mountains, waterfalls, and the false summit and until you reach the real one up there in the clouds. If it’s one of the 200 Most Famous Mountains of Japan and 100 Most Famous of the Kansai Region then it’s going to be worth dirtying your hiking boots for.
Mount Atago, Kyoto
Since it’s quite obvious that this list mentions the highest peaks, this mountain’s surely not one to miss. It’s the highest mountain in Kyoto and also taller than Mount Hiei on the opposite side of town. It’s popular as a pilgrimage route to Atago Shrine that sits atop it. It was built at the beginning of the eighth century B.C., some 1300 years ago by Taicho. A festival called Sennichi Tsuyasai is celebrated on the night of July 3.
Mount Rokko, Hyogo
There’s technically not just one mountain that’s named Rokko but it’s a series of mountains and the highest peak is called Rokkōsan-Saikōhō. This mountainous area is home to the Arima Onsen, Rokkō Alpine Botanical Garden, Nunobiki Herb Garden, Nunobiki Falls and the first golf course in Japan, the Kobe Golf Club, that was built in 1903. You’d surely have a lot on your list of activities if you spend a good number of days hiking in Kobe.
Mount Gozaisho, Mie and Shiga
Also called Gozaisho-dake, it is one of the tallest mountains in the Suzuka Mountain Range in Mie and Shiga. It serves as an entryway to the other mountains in the area where you can marvel at the raw beauty of nature. You can ride the Gozaisho Ropeway to reach the Yunoyama Hot Springs. You can also go skiing at the Gozaisho Ski Resort so you can also see how pretty this mountain is when blanketed by snow.
Takeda Castle Ruins, Hyogo
Also known as “The Castle Above the Clouds”, which basically is a literal description of it judging to the sea of clouds surrounding it when the weather conditions are just right. Come and visit sometime between September to November to personally view it. Make sure you get more information about the area, like what equipment you need and when you can go up safely. It takes 3 hours round trip but seeing the mysterious allure of the clouds and the ruins are well worth it.
Having all the time in the world to travel to Japan and trek these majestic mountains is quite a luxury but if you really want to go you’ll have to allocate a good amount of time and appropriate resources to be able to experience everything in its glory. For now, add any these or all of them to your bucket list so you’ll be inspired to pack your hiking boots and climb them someday.
By Kansai explorer [GFDL or CC BY 3.0 ], from Wikimedia Commons
Aug 20, 2018
Popular Landmarks and Buildings in Kobe
Almost 150 years ago, Kobe opened its ports to the west and has since blossomed into a city of fusion and flair. Chinese influences also remained despite the influx of other cultures from far and wide and has been steadfast in nurturing their colorful and vibrant traditions and way of life. This city that has withstood a devastating calamity has continued to flourish over time and has retained its distinctive cultural identity
The city is more known the world over for delicacies like its beef, sake and sweet treats. It’s also known for its natural gifts like the Arima Onsen. Part of it is even known as the birthplace of Japan. There’s a lot more that this fascinating city has to offer and keep you coming back for more. These landmarks and infrastructures are just some of what makes Kobe even more amazing.
Kobe Harborland
For the shopping aficionados, this one’s for you. It’s one of the most popular shopping and entertainment districts in Kobe. Umie is the most visited and it consists of Mosaic, South and North Mall. At the southern end of Mosaic is the Anpanman Museum and the imposing ferris wheel that you can see in most photographs of the city. There’s also the Manyo Club Hot Springs on the top floors of the complex and the Puromena skyscraper.
The Great Hanshin-Awaji Earthquake Memorial Disaster Reduction and Human Renovation Institution
The impressive glass structure was built to commemorate the Kobe earthquake in 1995 that devastated the city as it was closest to the epicenter. 6,000 lives were lost and 400,000 buildings were damaged making it the country’s worst earthquake of the 20th century. There are exhibits and videos that educate visitors about what really happened and also workshops on disaster management.
Hyōgo Prefectural Museum of Art
Also known as Hyōgo Kenritsu Bijutsukan, it is one of the creations of the internationally acclaimed architect Tadao Ando. This municipal art gallery showcases Japanese and foreign works of art like sculptures, paintings and prints. Memorial rooms of two of the greatest contemporary artists, Ryōhei Koiso and Kanayama Heizō, can also be viewed inside its concrete walls.
Kobe Port Tower
The 7,000 light emitting diodes (LED) lighting equipment with 40 artistic lighting effects making this famous landmark a sight to behold at night. It was completed in 1963 by the Nikken Sekkei Company but was refurbished between 2009 to 2010 adding the now iconic colorful lights at night. It is 108 meters high with 8 layers and drew inspiration from the structure of a tsuzumi or a Japanese drum. The 32 red steel staves symbolize the welcoming of ships and other vessels to the city’s shores. There are layers for sightseeing, souvenir shopping and a 360 degree rotating cafe.
Meriken Park Area
This area houses some of the landmarks on this list but it’s also popular in its own right. It’s name is derived from the word “American” because the townsfolk from the Meiji era saw Americans slugging it out with their fists. In addition to Kobe Port Tower, you can also visit the Kobe Maritime Museum and Hotel Okura here.
Ikuta Shrine
Built at the beginning of the 3rd century A.D., it is perhaps one of the 3 oldest shrines founded during that era. There is a forest behind it where markers of the Battle of Ichi-no-Tani can be viewed. During the annual Autumn Festival, Noh plays such as the Ebira and Ikuta Atsumori are performed here.
Kitano-chō
Since Kobe is famous for its western influences, one of the famous landmarks that you can walk around in is a district lined with foreign residences that have been turned into museums. The Weathercock House built in 1909 is one of the structures that’s been well photographed and represents all other houses in the area.
The Akashi Kaikyō Bridge
The longest suspension bridge in the world connects Kobe on the Japanese mainland of Honshu to Iwaya on Awaji Island. Almost 4 kilometers long, it crosses the Akashi Strait and is one of the Kobe-Awaji-Naruto Expressways. The Bridge Exhibition Center at the foot of the structure and the Maiko Marine Promenade, an observatory under the platform of the bridge, that is 50 meters above the water are open to visitors all year long.
When you’re in Japan and your schedule permits it, try to visit Kobe and experience for yourself the different kinds of cultures the city is known for. You’ll surely hit the restaurants right away to try their Kobe beef but do take some time to walk around and explore their historic and contemporary wonders afterwards. There will surely be places in this you’d love to keep visiting every time you’re in the land of the rising sun.
By Tomomarusan (This is the creation of Tomomarusan) [GFDL, CC-BY-SA-3.0 or CC BY 2.5 ], via Wikimedia Commons
