A lot of the shops inside keep the original old-house layout—wooden doors, sliding doors, tile roofs… the aged feel is super strong. It’s a slow, relaxing place to wander, and you’ll want to keep taking photos.
Some shops sell little goods, and some are cafés. Overall it’s kind of artsy and mellow—perfect for a walk and a small snack.
Kagawa Family Nagayamon Gate | Review by Liao Jun
Other Reviews by Liao Jun
-
Aizuya Lalaport EXPOCITY
Founded in 1933, Aizuya is a legendary takoyaki shop with over 90 years of history. Originally, it served “Radio-yaki”-batter balls filled with beef tendon and konnyaku-but when the founder added octopus inspired by Akashi-yaki from Hyogo, takoyaki as we know it today was born.
The special thing here is they don’t use sauce or mayo.
It’s all about the flavor of the batter itself, which makes it feel really light and not heavy at all.
The takoyaki are on the smaller side, perfect bite-size.
Super easy to eat one in a single bite.
The outside is slightly crisp, the inside is soft and tender, and it goes down really smoothly. -
Shirakidani Plum Grove
A famous plum blossom spot spread across the mountains of Yahatanishi Ward, Kitakyushu City. Along the forest road running parallel to the Kusaki River, Approx. 500 plum trees have been planted, including red and white varieties such as Shirakaga and Satsuma Kobai. Buds begin to appear in January, and the trees usually bloom all at once from late February to late March. Surrounded by soft colors and a rich fragrance, time spent here feels deeply relaxing.
Shirakidani Plum Grove is absolutely beautiful. When all the plum blossoms are in bloom, it looks like pink snow falling everywhere.
-
Tokyo Koenji Awa-Odori
It began as “Koen-ji Temple’s Baka Odori (Stupid Dance).” in 1957. Today, more than 1 million visitors come to see Tokyo Koenji Awa Odori. This is the summer staple for local people and the 2nd largest event after Tokushima of all the Awa Odori hosted in Japan.
Every dance group has its own unique style. The costumes and moves are so coordinated and energetic. As soon as the music starts, your feet just want to move—you really can't help but want to join in!