Readme before you journey
Nagoya: A Tranquil Oasis in the Bustle
Nagoya, a city of tranquility amidst the hustle and bustle. Even on its busiest days, a sense of serenity prevails. The loudest noise you're likely to encounter is the chatter at Don Quijote in Sakae, where the line for tax refunds stretches all the way to Oasis 21. Ask any local for their culinary recommendations, and you'll receive a chorus of suggestions: unagi donburi (eel rice bowl), chicken wings, and tonkatsu. The chilly weather, a novelty for those accustomed to tropical climates, necessitates frequent purchases of hot packs. Overall, Nagoya offers a charming experience, embodying the quintessential Japanese spirit.
The author ponders why they chose to visit Nagoya, a city often overlooked by tourists who prefer to explore the popular destinations in the Chubu region or Osaka. They admit that Nagoya had never crossed their mind before, but a chance encounter with a Tohoshinki concert ("東方神起 LIVE TOUR 2017 ～Begin Again～") led them to spend six full days exploring the city. Despite the lack of extensive reviews and information about Nagoya, they decided to embark on this adventure and share their unique experience as a first-time visitor to Japan.
* Travel date 11-16 Jan 2018, the weather is cold, -2 to 5 degrees Celsius.
- Most of our travel plans are based on Hyperdia and Google Maps.
Embark on a journey
This trip to Nagoya, we flew with Thai Airways. Smooth as silk, flight TG 644 BKK 12:05 AM - NGO 7:30 AM landed at Nagoya Chubu Centrair International Airport. We had a long journey.
During the flight, snacks were served to keep our stomachs full. These included sandwiches and drinks, so there was no need to worry about going hungry. We ate while watching movies and before we knew it, we were asleep. However, our slumber was short-lived as the flight attendants woke us up at 3 am for breakfast. We ate in a daze, as the flight was not very long. The captain informed us that we had a tailwind, which allowed us to arrive in Nagoya slightly ahead of schedule.
This breakfast set features Japanese-style marinated fish.
Upon arrival at the airport, we immediately headed to Nagoya via the Meitetsu Airport Limited Express "μ-SKY" (Mew Sky) which took only 28 minutes. We alighted at Meitetsu Nagoya Station, which is the same as Nagoya Station.
Tickets for the Mu Sky can be purchased at the Access Plaza in the airport. You can buy them from a staff member or at a vending machine. We chose to buy them at the vending machine because we were shy to talk to the staff. The vending machine has an English option. We chose a One Way Ticket 870 yen + First Class Ticket (μ-Ticket) with a reserved seat for 360 yen (you can also choose a ticket without a reserved seat). Then you will be asked to choose a time. We chose a time that was very close to our departure time, forgetting that we had a large suitcase and did not allow enough time to walk to the platform. We ran to the train. When you get your ticket, you will receive two tickets, a large one and a small one. You need to insert the small ticket into the machine. And! Don't forget to keep your ticket. We thought we could just throw it away after inserting it, but we were wrong.
Upon boarding, luggage storage is available at the rear of the train. Passengers can then proceed to their reserved seats. A staff member will come around to check tickets. Enjoy the scenic views of the city for the 28-minute journey.
The outside temperature is 1 degree Celsius, while the inside of the car is very hot, completely ignoring the scarves we are wearing.
We have arrived at Meitetsu Nagoya Station, which is also known as Nagoya Station. Our hotel, Chisun Inn Nagoya, is conveniently located near the station. The hotel is easily recognizable by its circular shape and offers affordable rates of around 1,000 baht per night. There are also numerous convenience stores nearby, making it a very convenient location.
The following is a translation of the Thai sentence "ระหว่างทางเดินจากสถานีมาที่โรงแรมค่ะ เดินไม่ไกล" into English:
"It's not a long walk from the station to the hotel."
After packing our bags, we decided to head back to the station to grab a bite to eat. We opted for a local delicacy, custard chicken balls, which are a popular snack in Nagoya.
This shop is located inside Nagoya Station, near the exit with the silver clock. In the morning (we arrived around 8 am), they also serve breakfast menus. However, we ordered the custard chickpea and berry custard. I don't remember the price, but it wasn't too expensive. The taste was delicious, as expected of custard.
After lunch, we will travel to Nagoya Castle!
Nagoya Castle
From Nagoya Station, take the Higashiyama Line and get off at Shiyakusho Station. Use Exit 7. Transfer to the Meijo Line (Clockwise) and get off at Shiyakusho Station again. We used an IC Card for our journey, specifically the Manaca card (yellow) which we purchased from a vending machine at the airport. You can find more information about this online.
After exiting the station, turn left and you will see a fountain with a gentle breeze. Continue walking along the path beside the castle, and you will reach the main entrance. (However, you can also enter through the east gate, which is closer.)
There are many people running here. The weather is very cold. I admire their determination.
Let's take a long walk and enjoy the sights of the city.
We have arrived at the entrance. Feel free to take pictures as a souvenir.
Upon entering, there were booths selling tickets for 500 yen. We paid using an IC card. I had read that there would be a 100 yen discount, but there was none. It was 500 yen like everyone else.
As you approach, you will see the castle in the distance, not too far away. Before reaching the castle, you will come across the Hommaru Palace. However, during our visit, the exterior was undergoing renovations. Although it was still open to the public, we decided not to enter.
We are almost at the castle. Let's stop and take some pictures.
The castle has seven floors in total. It is recommended to take the elevator to the top floor first and then walk down. The top floor is a souvenir shop with prices as expected for a souvenir shop. There are coin-operated telescopes for viewing the scenery. We walked down one floor at a time. The interior displays the history of the castle's construction. The explanations are in Japanese and Korean as far as I remember. If you can't read them, it's a good place to calm your mind and heart. Walk around in the silence.
Castle entrance
After strolling around for about half an hour, we exited the main castle. For those who need to use the restroom, there are several conveniently located facilities throughout the area.
On the way back, we exited through the east gate and walked a short distance to exit 7, as before.
We returned to Nagoya Station for a short rest before heading back to our accommodation. Before settling in, we decided to grab a bite to eat. There were countless food options available at the station, categorized by type. We noticed a restaurant map within the station and stumbled upon a Ramen Alley. Located in the basement, it was a small alleyway lined with various ramen shops. We opted for the shop with the most inviting orange lighting, unable to decipher its name due to the language barrier.
Two Delicious Dishes with a Salty Kick
This passage describes two dishes ordered by the author, both of which are praised for their flavor. The author notes that the dishes are quite salty, which may be appealing to those who enjoy a strong savory taste. They speculate that one side dish is likely seasoned with soy sauce, while the other may be miso soup (although they acknowledge uncertainty). The author also mentions the option to add toppings, and they chose to include a boiled egg with their order.
The total for these two bowls is 1,640 yen. After we finished eating, we went back to rest for a while. Then we went out to continue our sightseeing.
Nabana no Sato Winter Illumination
This nighttime light show is typically held from October 2017 to May 6, 2018. The theme for this year is Kumamon.
The journey begins with a simple bus ride. Take the round-trip bus from Meitetsu Bus Center, located near Nagoya Station. The destination is Nabana No Sato, approximately 30 minutes away. The Meitetsu Bus Center is on the 3rd floor of the Meitetsu Department Store. Pass through the parking lot, where you may get lost in the mall. In this case, rely on the kindness of a friendly staff member who will guide you to the bus center. Once you find the Bus Center, purchase your tickets. There will be a dedicated lane for Nabana No Sato. We purchased a round-trip ticket for 1,780 yen. You will receive two small tickets. Use the ticket on the right for the outbound trip and keep the other for the return trip.
The bus will depart soon. We didn't check the exact time, so it's a bit of a gamble. Let's board the bus at **platform number 22**.
We drove for a long time, circling the streets below before getting on the expressway. The warm evening air lulled you to sleep. What are you waiting for?
Here is the translation of the text:
The sky was already dark when we arrived at the event. It was also cold and windy. Normally, there would be a time for the lights to be turned on, but we didn't do any research on what time that would be. However, since it was already this dark when we arrived, the lights should have been turned on already. The event itself ends at 9pm, so please plan your time accordingly.
The entrance to the event will have ticket booths as usual. The admission fee is **2,300 yen**. You will also receive **two 500 yen coupons** per person, which can be used as cash for food and drinks inside the event. Don't forget to check the return bus schedule at the ticket booth to avoid missing your ride.
As you enter, you are greeted by a dazzling display of lights and colors, as expected. The garden is beautifully landscaped, reflecting the story's setting. Next, you will find Island Fuji, a 360-degree observation point. Tickets cost around 500 yen, but we did not go up to see it. The queue was quite long, and the weather was very cold, leaving us without the energy.
Let's continue walking. There are restaurants in this area where you can grab a bite to eat. A little further ahead, there is another performance area. It's beautiful here, with rainbow-colored lights. Let's stop and take some pictures.
It's worth noting that there were quite a few couples here. We and our friends walked around with our hands in our pockets. It wasn't lonely, not at all.
The highlight of the event is the spectacular yellow light tunnel, which could be considered the prototype for New Year's light tunnels in many places in our country. Here, it's incredibly long and truly beautiful. It can get a bit crowded, but towards the end of the tunnel, the crowds thin out a bit.
At the end of the tunnel, you will find the Kumamon Zone, where you can enjoy a show featuring Kumamon clips projected onto a mountain-shaped screen. It's adorable, as you would expect from Kumamon. I apologize that my photos from this area are blurry due to the cold weather. You can also find a variety of Kumamon souvenirs to purchase here.
Next is the Cherry Blossom tunnel zone. The lights were initially pink, but then changed to green after a while. It was truly magnificent.
Leaving this zone, we arrived at the food and souvenir section. We visited and shopped around, just enough to whet our appetites. Then, our stomachs started to growl, so we decided to have lunch. We walked back to the restaurant near the entrance of the event. We didn't know what to eat, so we went inside. The atmosphere was luxurious. After a while, a waiter came to take our order. We chose a menu that cost 1,000 yen, which was just right. We didn't have to pay any extra. We got a beef rice bowl and a steak. (Actually, there should be specific names for these dishes.)
The taste is good, especially when you're starving. It's salty as usual. The shop provides free water. The staff is lovely. Thank you very much.
After a satisfying meal, it was time to return. We ran to catch the bus, as usual, even though we had checked the schedule. If we missed this bus, we would have to wait another 45 minutes. The bus stop was conveniently located near the arrival area. There was a long queue of passengers waiting to return, so we joined the line and presented our small ticket stubs to board the bus.
The bus was so crowded that we thought we would have to stand. All the seats were full. But then the driver suddenly stopped the bus and spoke in Japanese. Everyone on the bus looked at us. We didn't understand what he was saying. We were confused. But then the person in front of us moved, and the passenger who was sitting there removed the extra seat and gave it to us so we could sit in the aisle. We finally understood. There was an extra seat. We sat down and continued our journey. We didn't need to be told to sleep. We did it automatically.
Avalokitesvara
Today, we're visiting Osu Kannon Temple. Take the **Higayama Line** from Nagoya Station to **Fushimi Station**. Transfer to the **Tsurumai Line** and get off at **Osu Kannon Station**. Use **Exit 2**. After a short walk, you'll reach the temple entrance.
We arrived at midnight. The air was cold, like walking in a snowstorm. There was a little bit of snow falling, just a little bit. At first, I thought it was incense dust.
It was peaceful in the middle of the night, with very few people. I thought the temple was closed, but it's actually **open 24 hours**. I didn't do much research on the history of the temple, but I know that its unique feature is the red building.
Upon entering, you will find various features typical of Japanese temples. Following tradition, insert a 5-yen coin and offer your prayers. At the entrance, you will find an incense pot. Insert a 10-yen coin and open the box to retrieve a small bundle of incense sticks. Light the incense inside, which may take a moment to fully ignite.
After paying our respects at the temple, we continued to the nearby shopping area, Osu Shopping Street. There were many shops selling a variety of goods, and we were particularly impressed by the unique stores. Unfortunately, it was already getting dark when we arrived, and the shops were closing around 2-3 pm. We wandered through the streets, eventually ending up in a different alleyway.
The first shop we visited was Alice on Wednesday, a store selling all sorts of Alice in Wonderland-themed trinkets. Inside, there were Lolita-style accessories, which were a bit pricey, but if you can afford them, they're adorable. The other side of the store was a souvenir area with Alice and her friends' chocolate in special packaging. I bought some candy in a glass bottle for 500 yen. The prices in this area were more reasonable, and they make cute gifts.
The highlight of the restaurant is the entrance, which is fitting for Alice in Wonderland, as you have to bend down a little.
As we strolled along, we encountered a plethora of shops, including secondhand stores, gachapon machines (approximately 100 yen cheaper than other areas), a 100 yen Seria store, and an ABC Mart. There were also swag swag clothing stores, but it's worth noting that some of them weren't particularly inexpensive. However, if you find something you like, don't hesitate to buy it, as you might not have the opportunity to return later and regret it.
Another highlight was the sticker shop. I don't remember the exact location, but it's not hard to find. This shop sells stickers with unique designs created by the shop owner. They come in various sizes and look very stylish. If you're a fan of sticking stickers on your luggage, skateboard, or furniture, you should definitely check it out. Don't miss out!
We strolled along, crossing that alley and entering this one, having fun as the story unfolded. Towards the end, there were shops that were Game Zones, where we could play gachapon, use coin-operated claw machines to grab stuffed toys, and take purikura photos. We had so much fun, we lost track of time, folks.
Atsuta Jingu Shrine
Day three. Today we visited the Atsuta Shrine. We left a little later than usual, around 10 am. We took the Meijo Line to Tenma Cho Station, Exit 4, and walked for about 7 minutes.
This renowned shrine attracts millions of visitors annually. We visited on a Saturday, and while it was crowded, it wasn't unpleasantly so. We were able to comfortably explore the grounds.
The grand entrance lies ahead. Before entering, one must perform the customary bow.
The walk continues for quite a while, but it's a pleasant stroll through the trees, just as the story describes. If you enjoy walking amidst nature, this place ticks all the boxes. We were very impressed, and the air is fresh too.
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As we ventured deeper, we stumbled upon a treasure trove of culinary delights. The name of the shrine momentarily escaped our minds as we became consumed by the tantalizing aromas and the sheer abundance of food options. Rows upon rows of stalls stretched before us, offering a smorgasbord of culinary temptations. From sizzling meat grills to fluffy crepes, buttery baked potatoes, and savory takoyaki, the variety was simply overwhelming.
We were served 6 takoyaki at this restaurant for approximately 500 yen. There were various sauce options available, but the taste was not very noticeable due to the heat of the dish.
We felt that takoyaki alone was not enough, so we bought another skewer of grilled meat for 600 yen. The sound of the meat being grilled was so satisfying, it's still ringing in my ears.
Upon tasting, the dish was surprisingly tough. The flavor was intensely salty, catering to those who enjoy a strong saline taste. It was as if the ingredients had been submerged in a vat of salt for three months. A truly unique experience.
After finishing our meal, we continued walking towards the shrine. Upon reaching the entrance, there was a water basin for hand washing. We followed the custom, which we had learned about from reviews and advice from others. We washed our hands with joy and then enjoyed some tea, which was refreshing in the cool weather.
After a short walk, we arrived at the shrine. It was crowded, but not as crowded as the Leng Nei Yi Temple back home. We were able to breathe easily. We threw a 5 yen coin, clapped our hands, and made a wish.
The highlight of our trip was the section dedicated to lucky charms, which was bustling with people, likely due to the New Year festivities. Many visitors were seeking auspicious charms for the year ahead, with dog-shaped charms being particularly popular as it is the Year of the Dog. We couldn't resist joining in and renting one ourselves. For other charms, we relied on the knowledge of others to understand their meanings. After making our selections, we simply handed them to the miko (shrine maiden) for processing.
After visiting this area, we walked around the temple. In fact, there are other activities in the zone behind the amulet sales point. Please check it out.
As we walked back out, we were struck by this adorable little girl. She was walking around so cutely, and we asked to take a few pictures. Her mother was delighted, but the little girl herself was still a bit confused.
Miya-no-Watashi Park (Seven Leagues Ferry)
We stopped by a riverside park near the shrine. It wasn't actually that close, but it was within walking distance. We enjoyed the scenery and the city. Actually, we were just killing time because we had a restaurant reservation later.
The garden we are going to is the site of an ancient fort (or tower, not sure). We just poked around on the map at that time, so we didn't do any research. When we arrived, we were relieved. It is a small garden by the water, with no one around. The weather was pleasant, and we were able to take some pictures.
Atsuta Horaiken - Main Restaurant
The highlight of the day has arrived. When in Nagoya, you must try the unagi don! The branch we visited is the original one, and to get the best experience, we followed the rumors and waited for 3 hours. We made a reservation around 11 am and visited the shrine beforehand. Our reservation time was 2:20 pm, and the restaurant provided us with a queue number. When it was our turn, we simply presented the number and were seated.
The restaurant is located in front of the entrance to Atsuta Shrine. The restaurant has two rounds of service, so please check the time and holidays before visiting.
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Here is the translation of the text:
After submitting your queue number, the staff will guide you inside. Please wait in the reception area. The staff will then call your name. Please inform them of the number of people in your group beforehand.
The restaurant is quite small. Our table was in the middle of the restaurant. We ordered the Hitsumabushi set for 3,600 yen. The portion size was just right, so don't worry about it being too small. The bowls are deep.
Behold, viewers! Upon opening the lid, a voice seemed to whisper, "Eat me!" I had never tried eel on rice before, but this dish left me utterly captivated, yearning for every meal to be filled with the taste of eel. It was truly worth the three-hour wait.
How to Enjoy Hitsumabushi
Hitsumabushi, a Nagoya delicacy, offers a unique dining experience with specific steps to savor its full flavor.
- Separate the rice: Divide the rice into four portions using a separate bowl.
- First taste: Enjoy the first portion plain, appreciating the subtle flavors of the grilled eel and fluffy rice.
- Add toppings: Enhance the second portion with the provided condiments: chopped green onions, wasabi, and nori seaweed.
- Dashi delight: Pour the flavorful dashi broth over the third portion, transforming it into a comforting eel soup.
- Custom creation: For the final portion, combine elements from previous steps or experiment with your own preferred combination.
This multi-step approach allows diners to experience the versatility of hitsumabushi, savoring its distinct flavors in various ways.
The fish is crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, and the rice is perfectly soaked in the sauce. There are no bones to worry about, and it's definitely worth the price. If you don't want to wait that long, there are many other branches to choose from.
Sakae - Oasis 21 - Nagoya TV Tower
This phrase describes three prominent landmarks in Nagoya, Japan:
- Sakae: A bustling commercial district in the heart of Nagoya, known for its shopping, dining, and nightlife.
- Oasis 21: A unique public space featuring a rooftop garden and a futuristic glass-covered structure.
- Nagoya TV Tower: A 180-meter tall tower offering panoramic views of the city.
In the evening, we visited the Sakae district, the liveliest area in Nagoya. We spent two days exploring this vibrant area, both in the morning and evening. Notable landmarks include Oasis 21 and the Nagoya TV Tower. The district boasts a wide array of cafes, shops, and department stores, including Matsuzakaya, Parco, and popular brands like GAP and ZARA. A must-visit is the four-story Don Quijote, a treasure trove of souvenirs catering to all ages and nationalities. For those who prefer a less crowded shopping experience, numerous drugstores and Big Camera stores offer similar products at comparable prices.
We arrived at Sakae around 4 pm. The sky was not cloudy, but the weather was very cold. The wind was blowing in our faces, making us feel numb. We got off at Sakae Station on the Higashiyama Line. This station is quite large. If you are afraid of getting lost, there are maps showing the location of various department stores at each exit. We ourselves were a bit confused and ended up at Exit 1. As we went up, we saw Oasis 21 and the Nagoya TV Tower.
Translation:
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The upper level of Oasis 21 offers a spacious observation deck with water features, but we opted not to visit due to the cold weather and our reluctance to walk. During our visit, the lower level featured an ice skating rink where children were gleefully enjoying the winter chill.
We crossed the street to the Nagoya TV Tower. We decided to go up to the observation deck to enjoy the view. Our Japanese friend told us that she had never been up there before. She didn't seem very excited about the view, but we were definitely excited. The entrance fee is 700 yen. On the 3rd floor, there is a machine where you can buy a ticket. Then, a staff member will take you up in the elevator.
The first floor we reach is an indoor observation deck with a glass wall and a coin-operated telescope for enjoying the view. From there, we can take the stairs to the next floor, which is an open-air observation deck offering 360-degree panoramic views.
Sold out! The view is worth 700 yen. It's beautiful and opens up the experience according to the story. After that, we walked around the various shops. We walked for a long time, and the path was not crowded, so we could walk comfortably.
Don Quijote: A Bustling Shopping Experience
Our next stop is Don Quijote, a four-story retail giant with an additional two to three floors dedicated to restaurants. While the selection of clothing and bags may leave something to be desired, the store boasts an impressive array of pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, toys, and snacks. Prices are generally comparable to those found outside, offering slight discounts but at the cost of increased crowds. Expect a diverse mix of nationalities, particularly during tour group visits and tax refund periods. For a more relaxed shopping experience, consider exploring the surrounding stores.
Across from Don Quijote is the SUNSHINE shopping mall, which also houses a Tsutaya bookstore. There is a Ferris wheel here that you can ride for around 500 yen. We walked past it but didn't ride it, as usual.
After strolling through the Tsataya store, my stomach started to rumble. I needed to find something to satisfy my hunger. We opted for a miso-glazed pork cutlet restaurant. Yabaton, a renowned Nagoya establishment, has a branch in Thonglor. If you're interested in trying it out, the location is easy to find. The Yabaton Sakae branch is situated in the Sakae Centrise Building, B1 floor. You can simply walk down the stairs outside the building.
We arrived late at night, but the restaurant was still bustling with customers. It's open from 11 am to 11 pm, so there's plenty of time to enjoy a meal. The staff speaks English, so communication is easy, and there's a menu in English for non-Thai speakers. We ordered three dishes for our group of three.
The first dish on the menu is Misokatsu Don, a popular pork cutlet dish served on rice with a savory miso sauce. This dish can be customized with shredded lettuce for an additional cost. The second dish is Rouse Tonkatsu+Kani Coroke+Ebi Furai, a combination plate featuring pork cutlet, crab cream croquette, and fried shrimp. This dish can be ordered as a set with rice or as a standalone plate. The final dish we selected is the restaurant's signature Waraji Tonkatsu, featuring two large pieces of pork cutlet topped with sauce. This dish allows for a "Half and Half" sauce option, where you can choose two different sauces from a selection of three. We opted for the miso sauce and Worcester sauce. Similar to the previous dish, this can be ordered as a set with rice or as a standalone plate.
The taste is delicious, the pork is tender, but it is still salty. Everyone who has eaten it every day is swollen with salt. For those who like the salty taste, it is recommended as usual. However, since there are only fried foods, it will be greasy as expected. The price for this meal is 5,184 yen.
After finishing our meal, we walked out to find that many shops were already starting to close. The streets were beautifully lit with decorations, and the Nagoya TV Tower was also illuminated.
Dawn in Sakae
Translation:
The morning visit to the Sakae district was a delightful experience. While we didn't have any specific goals in mind, the abundance of shops and restaurants in the area was simply irresistible. We couldn't resist exploring further, discovering a treasure trove of hidden gems.
One such gem was a pharmacy and cosmetics store located near the Parco department store. We were pleasantly surprised by the affordable prices, extensive product selection, and friendly staff. The complimentary bottled water was a thoughtful touch, making our shopping experience even more enjoyable. This unexpected find prompted us to return for a second visit, eager to explore its offerings further.
We stopped by Tully's Coffee for a coffee break. This popular coffee shop is as ubiquitous as Starbucks, offering a pleasant atmosphere and attracting a steady stream of customers.
The menu we chose happened to be a special drink menu at that time. The drinks looked lovely, and the cakes here also looked delicious. The other food items on the menu also looked tempting, but we didn't order them. We only ordered coffee and cake.
Translation:
The snowman is a marshmallow. The coffee tastes good. It's a latte with just the right flavor. As for the cake, we chose the tea cake. The cake is soft and fluffy, like eating a Salai cake from Suphan Buri. I'm impressed.
Our primary objective today is to visit the GU store, located on the 6th floor of the Skyle Mall. This mall also houses a variety of other clothing, footwear, and miscellaneous stores, including Uniqlo, ABC Mart, and Muji.
The majority of clothing in the store caters to teenagers and young professionals. During our visit, there was a sale going on, and we each purchased one or two items. I bought a pair of corduroy pants for 990 yen, which is roughly 200 baht. The fabric quality is excellent.
The store has a self-checkout counter, which is fun and easy to use. The staff are very helpful and speak Japanese, while I speak English. We ended up communicating using sign language.
The store offers a self-service checkout zone with a variety of bag sizes to choose from, providing a fun and engaging experience for customers who have ever dreamed of being a cashier.
Sushi and Sashimi Feast at Matsuzakaya
It's time for another delicious meal, and today we're indulging in the delightful world of sushi and sashimi. Inspired by a recent visit to the supermarket where we were captivated by the vibrant display of sushi, we decided to treat ourselves to a feast. For this culinary adventure, we headed to the basement floor of the renowned Matsuzakaya department store.
** **
Three boxes of sashimi for 1,080 yen, but I don't know what kind of fish they are. I just chose them based on their appearance. There is also sushi on sale, including various mackerel dishes. There is also unagi donburi (rice bowl with grilled eel). There is also a zone with cakes and other snacks. We got sashimi, sushi, and chicken wings.
After paying, we looked for a place to sit and eat, but there was no table and chair zone in the mall. So we moved to the public park outside to enjoy the meal in the fresh air. It was about 3 degrees Celsius, which was quite comfortable.
A lone gentleman sat nearby, enjoying his meal in the same quiet atmosphere. The view was pleasant, but the service was a bit slow.
After finishing our meal, we continued exploring and savoring every moment, knowing our journey back was approaching.
In the final hours of our day, we returned to Nagoya Station for some shopping. This area boasts a variety of shops both underground and above ground. The clientele here primarily consists of working professionals and students, with tourists being a relatively rare sight.
We are looking to buy disposable film cameras. The Big Camera store across from the station sells them. They are slightly more expensive than at Don Quijote, but they have a wider variety to choose from, including Fuji, Kodak, and Ilford. They also have a wide selection of film types. If you're looking to buy a camera, come check it out. The store next door also sells cosmetics and various medications, and there's a Purikura booth in the basement.
To Chubu Centrair International Airport
It was time to head back. We opted for the Meitetsu Airport Limited Express "μ-SKY". Dragging our luggage was a bit of a challenge. The nearest entrance to the station from our hotel, the Nagoya Marriott Associa Hotel, was conveniently located. As usual, we opted for train tickets. Remember to factor in travel time. My friend and I didn't press the button to select our tickets at the same time. My friend had already selected theirs, but the train was full by the time I tried to select mine. Fortunately, I hadn't paid yet.
Upon arrival, we located the designated platform and waited for the train. Our return journey was quite stressful due to the large amount of luggage and limited train options. We were concerned about missing our flight. As we boarded the train, we were anxious but relieved that we had checked in online. However, we faced another challenge as the check-in counter closed for baggage drop-off at 10:00 am, while our train was scheduled to arrive at the airport at 9:48 am. We prayed for a smooth arrival throughout the journey.
While trying to enjoy the scenery, we were comforted by the fact that the Japanese train was on time, as expected. We could see the airport in the distance, but within two minutes, we had arrived. We ran as fast as we could.
We arrived just in time and went through the security check as required. The Duty Free shop was conveniently located near our gate, so we didn't have to walk far to find it. After browsing and making some purchases, we headed to our boarding gate to wait for our flight.
The airport offers a scenic viewpoint for plane watching, as well as a shopping mall. If you plan to explore at your leisure, allow ample time. Be cautious of miscalculating your time, as we did. We sincerely apologize for any inconvenience caused.
This review has been edited to remove the portion about the day we attended the concert, as we were concerned it would be too long. However, we have included all the main content and locations. If you are planning a trip to Nagoya, we encourage you to visit these places. We hope you have a wonderful trip!
Thank you very much for reading this far. ^^
The sentence is already in English and does not require translation.
yellowmellow
Monday, November 11, 2024 10:30 AM
