Basically, these are just the old homes of merchants that were renovated and opened to the public after they became successful.
Gokasho Kondo Cityscape | Review by 楊華
Other Reviews by 楊華
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Hateruma Island
A inhabited island in Okinawa’s Yaeyama Islands and the southernmost inhabited island in Japan. Close enough for a day trip from Ishigaki Island, it can be reached by high-speed boat or ferry, and air service resumed in 2024. Scenic spots showcasing its natural beauty are scattered across the island, including Takanazaki, where the Monument Marking Japan’s Southernmost Point and the Southernmost Peace Monument stand on a dramatic cliffside cape, and Nishi Beach, a popular spot for swimming and sunset views.
Hateruma Island is seriously gorgeous! The water is so blue and the sand is so white—it’s the kind of view that makes you say wow 🌊✨
The whole island is really peaceful, so it’s perfect for just relaxing or slowly biking around. I especially recommend visiting the Monument Marking Japan’s Southernmost Point and Star Sand Beach. Both are super unique.
At night, you can see a sky full of stars, which feels so romantic 💫 It’s absolutely worth visiting at least once! -
Hanayagura Observatory
Mt. Yoshino, known for its approximately 30,000 cherry trees in bloom, is a famous cherry blossom spot. A popular viewing location is the Hanayagura Observatory, reached by climbing the steep, curvy Shishiozaka slope. It is said that here, Sato Tadanobu, a retainer of Minamoto no Yoshitsune, once shot arrows at enemies pursuing them from the mountain's base to facilitate Yoshitsune's escape.
This place is gorgeous! It really feels like standing inside a painting, especially during cherry blossom season—it's absolutely dreamy.
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Paris Ogawaken Original Raisin Wich
Established by the Western-style restaurant Ogawaken, founded in 1905 in Tokyo's Shimbashi district. During the mid-Showa period, Jun Ogawa (the second-generation owner) and his brother Akira Ogawa perfected the original Raisin Wich recipe, leading them to establish the dedicated pastry brand "Paris Ogawaken."
The cookies are nice and crisp, filled with rich cream and sweet raisins. They’re not too sweet and really addictive—perfect for enjoying with tea.