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[misstinapie]

T&J Travels #10: Japan 2018 (Part 10)

We arrived late evening at our hotel. It wasn't difficult to find because you could just walk from Kasai station and it's at a main road.

+ Pearl Kasai +

Our hotel in Tokyo have the same feels as the apartment we had at Osaka even up to the bath. I do not know if this is the same across Japan but the familiarity leaves little for comparison. We did like how they leave new everything (toiletries, sheets, towels, etc.) everyday. The only thing I disliked about this hotel is how erratic their aircon is. That or we don't know how to work the console that is conveniently fitted on the headboard.

Our rooms are clean, the drain is better than the one we had at Osaka and they have hangers too. The only off thing is just a pet peeve of mine, they always have us leave our keys. And also, Kasai is only near Disneyland. Other attractions are quite a ride away. This is basically the result of booking rooms so late.

Price: 10299.24 PHP 5D4N + Mcdonalds +

Probably the weirdest Mcdo experience we ever had so far overseas. We had to go back and forth multiple times and yet they still have not gotten our order right that Reagan and I had to share one drink and one large fries. We did get separate burgers and tomato soup.

Price: 1220 JPY (all in)

[misstinapie]

Contemplating on moving (AGAIN)

From Multiply to Blogger to Wordpress. It seems that I need to move once more.

And I am hoping this would be my final online home.

We'll see in a few days

[misstinapie]

T&J Travels #10: Japan 2018 (Part 9)

Today's our last day for Osaka but not without going to Nara. We have already accumulated so many shopping bags plus our luggage so we really had to resort to leaving them at lockers. We left ours at Osaka station so it would be easier when we go back to Tokyo.

From the station look for the poster like so:

If you've arrived early and have planned to do full day at Nara, you can buy an unlimited pass for the buses. We didn't get one because we only had to go the famous Nara park and back. Maybe next time when we'd do a proper tour of the Seven Great Temples.

As soon as we got off at the bus stop we can already see deer. And even without effort a handful of them is already up for Reagan's petting. He just had to contain his excitement in feeding them in a bit because we will first visit the Todaiji temple.

+ Todai-ji +

  It may not be apparent on the photos, but the Nandaimon is in old wood and the height is unbelievably high. Here's a comparative scuplture of a Nio at the gate (there's a pair on either side of the gates) with some people:

You don't need to get in to the the temple, you could see it from the next gate after the Nandaimon. But we've gotten in anyway so we could see The Great Buddha and closer to the Daibutsuden that houses it.

As we approached the Daibutsuden I just realized that the temple is much bigger than I thought it to be. It is so humongous that I could never take a full photo of the building standing right below it unless I take a portrait orientation. This is much taller than I assumed can be done in wood and in era where modern cranes does not exist yet. In fact it is even bigger than the churches the Spaniards made that I've seen so far and that's already in stone!

When we got in I felt even smaller compared to THE Great Buddha. 10/10 not disappointed in size because it is impressive. Other than the Buddha, there are other more towering sculptures that for me is a feat on the time it was made. The details are magnificent, it looks like it have jumped out of paper. For wood to look like that requires an amazing artisan and I am glad to be able to see it in real life.

I tried looking for what it's about but there's one pillar in the temple that have a square shaped hole that are crawled onto by kids. I don't know if it's part of a dare, or good luck (there are a lot of students today) but it is so much fun to watch. There was even a lady who attempted it and with such a small stature and weight she was able to fit in easily.

Price: 1000JPY

+ Feeding the Deer +

When we're done we got back to where all the deers hang out and bought the biscuits that are meant to be fed to them (150JPY a pack). I have Reagan have all the biscuits so I could video him feeding the deers. The moment they found out he has some he has already gathered a handful approaching. There was a scary deer that had clipped antlers (thank heavens) that was a bit aggressive who has head butted my camera at some point we had to move away from him. The others were nice though, they reciprocated Reagan's head bows with their own and it's so cute to watch. What's even cuter is Reagan looked like a priest in green cassock handing out ostias to his patrons.

After feeding the deer we tried some freshly made ichigo daifuku (strawberry mochi ; 300JPY). The mochi's sticky texture combined with the sweetness of fresh strawberry makes me drool as I write this. I wish I could take it home!

One food staple that I remembered watching animes is the Japanese love for yams. We saw a cart selling it and out of courtesy we didn't notice that the price is per grams. We were given a huge one and we don't know if you could request for something smaller (the seller hands out in full, haven't seen ones that were cut). I can say that there is nothing distinctive about this than the yams I know back home. Nonetheless that is one out of my food checklist.

We can't find proper restaurants that we'd like that we had to walk further from the park. We ended up in (I still believe) is a Korean owned restaurant (Reagan says it isn't). There's just a group of guys inside (Koreans I tell you) and us so the service is quick. I am a bit full with my half of the yam but was able to still fit in my hamburg. I don't know what it is but there's something in the burger that doesn't make it taste too fatty.

After the meal we looked for our bus to get back to the nearest train station, back to our lockers and back to the city we first landed: Tokyo.

[misstinapie]

T&J Travels #10: Japan 2018 (Part 8)

Our day starts with an ekiben. We've been talking about this ever since we got here and thought today is the perfect opportunity to do so because our ride is more than an hour away. I got the #13  and it looked exactly the same!

+ Hiroshima +

One good thing to know is that in Hiroshima you could practically get unlimited rides via the tourist buses that go around all the scenic spots via the JR Pass. All the reason to love it more.

Our first stop was the bombing site. Reading the details around it was heart wrenching to say the least (there's a longer material around back, so go get there after you've done with the front part). Maybe it's the lack of tourists that add to how somber it was but I felt a bit emotional seeing it in real life.

The park is truly huge and it has multiple bus stops if you don't wish to walk, but we did anyway in case we missed anything. We've made sure to see Sadako's memorial and the Eternal flame / cenotaph but didn't get in the museum because we are already late for our next IT of the day. It's unfortunate I know but again, one big reason to come back right?

Following the loop bus map, we got in on another bus, took the train, grabbed a snack (damn, those are good Mister Donuts!) and found ourselves at the port where we're going to our next destination!

+ Miyajima +

Bye for now Hiroshima!

Like the buses, the ferry (10 mins long) is also free if you have the JR Pass. You just need to wait for when the next one to arrive. We stopped by at a konbini to wait for a while because it was beginning to be cold outside. When the ferry came we were fortunate to get good seats in front and say goodbye to Hiroshima for a bit. When we are coming in close to Miyajima the ferry have viewing balconies to appreciate the small island for a while with the Great Torii greeting us welcome. I stayed outside (even cold) and noticed that the flurries we've been having earlier are now more apparent. It is snowing!

Get ready to run on the left where you get to see this view!

Ok so I've read a bit about Miyajima but have missed that there are also roaming deer here (other than Nara). Some were already on stand by near the port and Reagan can't keep his hands off!

We had a lot of plans in seeing what Miyajima has to offer but we were only able to see just the nearest spots in a few hours. I don't mind walking but all the wind and falling snow makes my right knee hurt. It didn't help that we have to take some stairs to see Toyokuni Shrine and the 5 story Pagoda near it. Here are the stops (black stars) we made before we head to extremely late lunch (almost 5PM).

On the shopping arcade where all the food and souvenirs can easily be found lies an oddity that you could never miss: a giant rice scoop! Here's an article that would best retell the legend of the rice scoop and it's importance in Miyajima.

Before we got close to the Great Torii (Otorii), Ishidorii met us first. There are also stone lanterns dotted on the side. Must look pretty at evenings when it's all lit up.

After the bend, we are now able to see the iconic Great Torii. The clouds and the water added a dramatic effect to my photos. I know it's possible to walk underneath it but we're not even close to a low tide to be able to.

Couple of photos later and me prying Reagan off the friendly deers, we've went in Itsukushima Shrine (300JPY) which was painted orange and mostly stands on water! There's also a viewing deck which provided really good photo ops though you have to wait for other tourists to leave.

I don't know if there's really nothing inside Itsukushima so we just roamed around a bit. Next we went to Daiganji Temple and the Kiyomori Shrine. The Miyajima Aquarium is closed for maintenance and I forgot the reasons why we missed the Itsukushima Treasure Hall. After that we started to walk back but not until we've went up the hill for the Toyokuni Shrine (50JPY) and the pagoda.

The Toyokuni Shrine, like Himeji needs the removal of shoes to go in as well. From the top you could see the terminal and a bit of the village. There were also a lot of giant rice scoops and wall decors of horses and deers.

We walked back to Omotesando Shopping Arcade to finally eat lunch (quarter to 5pm). It was hard looking for somewhere to eat, most of the restaurants are already closed. We did manage to find one that is open (again we were one of the last customers). One of the specialties here is oyster so we ought to have them. Reagan got different types while I went the safe route and got them fried. IT WAS AWESOME. 10/10 would get some again.

It was one of our expensive meals in this trip, we actually totaled 4710JPY for both our meals.

Maybe it's because of walking for too long but after the hearty meal we've also gotten some steam buns (promoted by Ran's dad from Detective Conan) and another maple leaf snack (210JPY for two).  We did try the maple snack earlier but this was made from the machine which was unfortunately not as good as the hand made ones that are freshly baked but are double the price.

We capped the night with another meal at a restaurant walking distance from our place that have affordable delicious meals, too bad we don't know what the restaurant's name is.

[misstinapie]

T&J Travels #10: Japan 2018 (Part 7)

Today involves a lot of walking. Our original itinerary is fully packed with so many places and this is our attempt to finish as much from our list. We did try to start early today but we've still arrived at our first stop almost 10 AM already (Shin-Osaka to Arashiyama is more than an hour away).  Technically we are already late for everything.

+ Arashiyama Bamboo Grove + I do not know if all routes go to the bamboo grove but we only followed a tour group just so we could reach it. We thought we were already there seeing the thin bamboos around but after some 5 minute walk (with a few stops as selfies)  we finally arrived at the famous grove.

We roamed for a while, even to places until the crowd thinned more. After the grove we've went for quick snacks crab sticks and dango. We also found a weird snack: yuba soup! It's layers of tofu skin and tofu soup (300JPY a cup). The warm soup is comforting in this airy Kyoto.

Price: FREE; There is bike rental though in case you wanted to get ahead of everyone else.

  + Toei Kyoto Studio Park +

It is rare for an IT to include the Toei Studio park. But being raised on anime, I thought it would be a disgrace not to go.

When we got in we are greeted by anime figures both old and new. There's also cute themed eating areas at the side. We spent sometime ogling at them until we've finally went out and so glad we did. It's like we've transported to an old Japan!

Tip: Wait for the special surprise!

Other than being a theme park, it's also a live studio for Toei so all are locations that could eventually be a set in any of their shows. Even the building we've been in looked like an old train station complete with a life sized train in front. There's Yoshiwara street (red light district), a body of water that could resemble a port or any location that needs water (with a special surprise every few minutes!!), a front of a temple, a village amongst others. We've also stumbled on a few actors who are currently shooting a scene and had to close off a certain area. We were told not to take photos though. Too bad I didn't know who the actors were.

There are also roaming samurais and geishas who you could take photos with but we were too shy to ask so I had just this stolen shot:

While we were roaming we spotted an ongoing session of actors role playing with kids. It's unfortunate we couldn't understand what they were saying but hearing all the laughter makes me really envious.

After enjoying what outside offers, we've went back to the main building and went upstairs to Hero Land where all the life sized statues of different Sentai are in display. Reagan grew up watching them (I myself could barely remember!) which made the attraction extra special to visit.

We left and had missed a proper meal. We got some onigiri at the nearest Mini Stop and had to walk in circles looking for the bus stop until we realized it was just in front of the park.

Price: 2200 JPY (each) + Kinkaku-ji +

We were lucky to have made it before the cut off time (5PM) and at the best time to view it as well. The temple lived up to it's name as being Golden, but seeing it illuminated with the last rays of the sunset gives it an extra glow.

  I also liked that there are not much people around too so we were able to get a lot of spots to take photos.

The actual temple is off limits so you just have to admire it from a far. We've walked with the rest of the tourists around the temple. There's a gift shop and fortune telling boxes. I was curious in trying out one but as soon as I've decided to get one, they started to cover them as sign of being closed. Price: 400 JPY + Kyoto Tower +    

When we got off of the bus, we have no idea where to look for the tower. Only until I glimpsed it on a reflective surface did we notice we only need to look up. We walked towards it, even made it up to inside but didn't went up. I don't know what have gotten into me, but best thought not to for the moment. Besides I wanted to go back to this building to try out the making of fake food and kimono wearing we saw in one of the floors.

Price: Can't remember since we didn't went up. + Fushimi Inari Taisha +

Just when I thought that we'd be coming home already, Reagan suggested we still go. I know that we don't need to hastily go there (being open for 24 hours) but I was worried of the time we would spend actually going there. So imagine my surprise when I found out that the train station is right next to the location itself! You just literally have to tap your train card and already see an orange Torii to welcome you.

While it's a good experience to see Fushimi at night, both my gadgets suck bad at low light photography so I have no decent photos and these are the best I could do:

I've read from somewhere that it would take a long time to hike to and fro the thousands of the torii so obviously we couldn't do that for tonight. I am just happy to have seen it finally even on an odd time, but I suppose it's always easy to come back here someday.

Price: FREE

After a dinner of udon we eventually settled for the night. If memory serves my knees started to hurt with how cold Kyoto was.  I would love to go back to Kyoto but because of this I wouldn't wish to come back at late spring. That or I really need something to hide my knees from the cold.

[misstinapie]

T&J Travels #10: Japan 2018 (Part 6)

One of my most favorite things in Japan are the availability of weird drinks on their vendo machine. On this day I decided to get this drink from Beard Papa. It tastes something like flavored milk but not too sweet.

+ Universal Studios Japan + Price 15800JPY (for 2)

We thought we were early but when we arrived at the gates of USJ, there are already a lot of people INSIDE. We rushed to look for The Wizarding World of Harry Potter being it's the only place I really wanted to see on the park.

When we found the path that leads to the castle my heart started to beat really quick. USJ actually went to lengths of adding the detail of having REAL pines lead up to the entrance of WWHH (there's even the car Ron and Harry crashed on the side) and of course the tinkling of the HP theme on the air. I have seen pictures but I was still at awe in seeing the attraction, a mish mash of the places in the HP universe in one Hogsmeade-like village. They have those small details you would only appreciate being a Potterhead and I absolutely love it!

Tip: Anyone going should not forget to go the toilet to hear Moaning Myrtle!

We weren't able to get breakfast because we immediately ran to the Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey (at the castle). There was already a long line but the wait isn't as much. I liked the ride but since Harry and the gang are speaking in Japanese it kind of took away from the thrill. It is also unfortunate that you couldn't take pictures (understandable) because you have to leave all of your stuff at the provided lockers. After the ride we (or more like I) shopped at the store for souvenirs. Most items are a bit expensive but it's hard to resist! Seriously if I come back I would be much more prepared than I was. I bought different Potter items for my sister and I got myself a butter beer mug that looked like it had beer on it.

Three Broomsticks

Well OF COURSE!!!!! And even though I already got myself a mug from the emporium I still went along and bought my meal with one (I reason it's different). We both got the same meal, butter beer, chicken, corn and some bread. I also realized why no one's eating outside, it's too damn cold! I offered Reagan for him and I to go back in and lose our view, but we decided to stay even if it meant our food got cold easily.

Price 5850JPY

As much as I wanted to stay longer, I eventually told Reagan and I to leave and explore the rest of the park. Most of our time though was spent at The Flying Dinosaur which he had been eyeing ever since we saw USJ from afar. We were stuck for more than 2 hours on the line, in intermittent rain and cold. When we're finished it's dark, not enough time for us to try out anymore rides like the one in Final Fantasy because they already stopped the queue nor get to the ferry and visit the Kaiyukan and the Ferris Wheel near it. Oh well. There's always next time.

Outside of USJ, we looked for a dinner place at Universal City Walk and ended up at Inaba Wako for pork cutlets. Our meal's total was 3034JPY.

After dinner, we went in a branch of Jump Shop. It had tons of familiar anime merchandise. They have a lot of DBZs and I'm tempted to buy useless stuff to fill my unit with but knowing how I already spent at Harry Potter's earlier today, I did my best to resist. One Piece is really popular so it wasn't hard seeing items in that theme on display. After a series of photos via messenger my sister tasked me into buying her a really expensive (imho) coin bank in the form of a popular whale from One Piece.

[misstinapie]

T&J Travels #10: Japan 2018 (Part 5)

+ Umeda Sky Building +

The Umeda Sky Building is a long walk from Osaka station. It's also noticeably more modern than what we have witnessed earlier today which was laid back. It has a BGC feel to it wherein it feels more western and everything is tall and shiny.

The sky building is not exactly a tourist area, just the top floor so be mindful of where you go in. The entrance is actually near the back (this is if you came from Osaka station) where people will usher you on which elevators to take. We have arrived an opportune moment because the crowd has started to grow thick. By crowd I mean Koreans. I am not so sure why they are plenty of them in Japan but they are noticeably plenty on any tower we went to.

The floor at the top brought the child in me for only because of something as simple effect as glow in the dark pebbles or whatever it is they embedded the floor with. It's so cute! It's like walking on stars! It is also noticeable if you have any white on so if you're bringing kids make sure they wear something reflective.

The building may not be tall but the view is still a beautiful sight to behold. And I think we may have spotted the Himeji Castle! We are not sure of this but it's unbelievable to be seen at this far (more than an hour travel difference). See if you can spot it below:

Love locks is also one of my agendas here but unfortunately there is no one around when we went to the counter.

A quick look (and after a few purchases) we finally decided to descend which took us longer than usual due to the volume of people.

Price: 1000JPY per head

There's still time when we left so we decided to go somewhere near us to have dinner. The famous Dotonbori.

+ Dotonbori +

You've seen the photos, you've read the blogs. Of course when in you are in Osaka you need to pay homage to the Glico man. The street we came out in made it quite harder to look for the famous bridge but once we got there boy THIS IS WHERE EVERYONE IS. We are lucky to even find a spot to take a selfie!

After I've got Reagan pose a handful of times just because I suck at any form of selfies, we decided to eat. We lost track of time that some stores have already ran out of stock. Based on blogs, Osaka is famous for their takoyaki balls and okonomiyaki so yes, we did that also. A quick snack at Kukuru (it was piping hot but I formed a technique that I could put in a hot takoyaki in my mouth and suck all the cold air to make it cooler for my mouth to take) we head off to a proper dinner at Tako Hachi where we had delicious okonomiyaki and yakisoba. For drinks Reagan had Asahi and I had Ramune melon soda. It was one of the unusual drinks I tried, more so the container. I wish I could take it home being unique and all.

Kukuru 650JPY 6 pcs

[gallery ids="6305,6306,6307" type="rectangular"]

6050JPY : Yakisoba, Okonomiyaki, Ramune, Asahi

We were probably their last customers that from having a pack of people when we went up, there are now just a handful left. I am seriously glad we were able to still get home that late (now that I'm looking at the timestamps of my photos, we were seriously playing on time back then, and you'd understand once we get to the night we were out REALLY late at Tokyo)

[misstinapie]

T&J Travels #10: Japan 2018 (Part 4)

We are off to a good start. Himeji Castle can be seen from afar from the station, probably a good 20 mins stretch. We chose to walk. From there we found a cafe to eat our first meal of the day- Cafe Jr.

+ Cafe Jr +

Reagan had a pretty breakfast with so much on his plate (no photo) and I had simple pancake. I've been craving for it that even if maple syrup is not available, I still chose the meal. Anyway, their hot matcha is really good.

[gallery ids="6285,6286,6287" type="rectangular"] Price: + Himeji Castle +

Himeji is a popular destination especially at Spring when the cherry trees that pepper the vicinity of the castle is in bloom. Since we came on their winter season, we could only see the trees on their bare form. I could imagine how pretty it might have been. However, I still liked that we didn't have to line up for hours just to get inside the castle. Other than the snob photographer who is irritated that we are ruining his shots, we enjoyed a good stroll. Although if you're going there, try to wear the most comfortable shoes you can find. The incline is a pain for high heeled boots!

The castle's flooring is made from wood that is probably older than I am. That's why you could not blame them if they are very particular on your footwear as you step inside. To  lessen the wear and tear of said wood before you go in, you need to replace your shoes with the provided free size slipper near the entrance. If you're worried your shoes will be taken by someone, no fret! They provide you with plastic bags so you can bring them along with you.

Once you go in, be prepared in climbing tons of stairs. What's worse is a lot of them are really steep (good thing there are tons of handrails) and sometimes slippery. I am wearing socks and the slippers are too large for me that's why it takes me longer to climb down. There are some exhibits here and there explaining the design of the temple and the unbelievable renovation done to make the castle last longer.

The view is also awesome from the inside. You could see the entire park and the surrounding city. If you were a resident back in the day you could see a lot at the height the castle has achieved. I don't think my own country had anything close.

We've roamed the grounds, did some shopping at the souvenir shop, went unexpectedly inside the mile long building Hyakken Roka (Long Connecting Road) up to the Kesho Yagura (Cosmetic Tower) and then we realized we haven't seen the garden we supposed to have paid.

Price: 1040 JPY if with Kokoen Garden  (see below)

After sitting on the garden filled with trees of cherry trees that are not yet in bloom, we decided to finally use maps to find this garden with an entrance fee of 40JPY. We finally found it, it's at the right side of the castle, and you have to get out of Himeji's grounds to get in. But first we decided to eat lunch.

+ Kassui-ken +

Their main selling point is that they have a breathtaking unobstructed view of the garden especially if you get to sit by the window. It would be amazing going there in all 4 seasons.

This is our first bento here in Japan and even though they've filled my box with food, I am surprised that I am perfectly satiated but not too full. It was an amazing meal even though it's a bit on the expensive side. It's so pretty to look at too. The service is also good, they show you even with just gestures on which dips go on which or if there are any special instructions.

I doubt we'll have the same seat we had now if it's cherry blossom season!

Price Our meal was 4320JPY for 2 (gasps!) + Koko-En Garden +  

The garden is really charming. I don't know if you are allowed to just sit anywhere to appreciate what's in front of you but since we are not going to stay here for too long, we decided to see what else the garden has to offer. They have a tea ceremony (different charge, has schedules) and a small nursery for different japanese plants and different variations of the photo above. The garden is divided in many sections but sadly there is not much lush as expected since we are still at the edge of winter season. We've left after an hour.

++

We walked back to the station and found the covered shopping area that was mentioned in some blogs. I bought a pair of shoes here because my feet are treacherously betrayed by my boots. I am not sure if it's due to the stress I've put on it at the incline at the Himeji castle or I need a softer sole. Either way, I am more than happy to use them as soon as we got us seats at the train.

It's already past 4PM when we've reached the platform to our next stop. I was hoping to have reached this on our first day at Japan, but have moved it conveniently today: The Umeda Sky Tower

[misstinapie]

T&J Travels #10: Japan 2018 (Part 3)

+ Yoshinoya +

I have 3 fast food joints I would like to try out in Japan. From our trip we only got a chance to try 2/3. The first one was Yoshinoya, the nearest and the only open fast food near our Osaka apartment (it was almost midnight already). I have ordered their beef bowl  with miso soup. I was hoping that the claim of being the best bowl in Japan would be true here because it clearly wasn't to me in the Philippines. I have tried my best to like what they offer back in Manila but no matter how many times I eat there I still find myself pissed after every meal.

I braced myself and ate a spoonful. Damn it. Why?! Even in Japan I still find it bland. The only redeeming factor of this meal is how their miso soup (as we realize later on) have tiny clams on it. At this cold we are both very grateful for any soup.

+ Konbini! +

We're regular patrons and for our stay in Japan we've visited all 3 major konbinis: Lawson, 7-11 and Mini Stop. All have the same offerings as far as I'm concerned. We didn't get the chance to try out their meals except for onigiri which I miss already! I also got myself different ice cream/popsicles whenever we could. We also bought neck warmers and gloves which is very convenient to fight the cold.

Because of the cold, on our every visit we make it a point to buy hand warmers (kairo) and try out different kinds. Unfortunately we only managed to get one to work properly and I forgot what brand it was! It was so effective that it was still warm when I discovered it on my jacket the day after.

But even with all the wonderful new things I see on their konbinis, I could not wrap my head around the thought that there are two things that are quite hard to find: body lotion and plain water. Mineral water is quite tricky even if it looks like one. One time we bought some weirdly flavored water that looked so innocent. Body lotion is hard to get by too. They have hand creams and HAIR LOTION of different types, I swear in one beauty drugstore (a lot like Watsons)  we went to, there are shelveS of hair lotions but not a single body lotion in sight.

So we walk all the calories away the entire day but how can anyone resist a sweet night cap?

One of the things we also notice is how easy it is to acquire adult magazines. You can't open them sure, but the covers are really suggestive. They share the same shelves with the latest manga editions, one of which was One Piece. I bought one on our first konbini trip for my sister (who I don't know how she's going to read) but what the heck, she was already ecstatic when I told her I found one. She's so excited in fact that I haven't even come home yet and she has already posted the photo I sent on Facebook.

++

We went home in silence. It's rare to find people around midnight unlike here in Manila where people are still abundant no matter what hour. Even the pachinko building near Kasai station is already closed. It's comforting that even at the lack of people you won't feel unsafe.

[misstinapie]

T&J Travels #10: Japan 2018 (Part 2)

Sorry Coke Vanilla, I just found my new favorite flavor in Japan!

We were supposed to start our tour as soon as we arrive but all of our schedules for the day were pushed because of the 2 hour delay. We did get a bottle of water, 2 Magic Flakes and Presto cookies from CebPac for the inconvenience. It's funny how some groups had to panic lining up for food in a fashion like as if they haven't eaten anything yet.

The immigration in Japan is quite easy albeit long. There are sometimes that the scanner fails to work, to which the Japanese at the machine commented "why is it always Chinese?" Yes. Reagan failed the first fingerprint scanner so he had to do it on the next counter.

When we arrived at Narita Airport, we were gauging on how cold it was. We didn't notice it via the airport to Tokyo transfer (Narita Express) too. But as soon as we found ourselves near the door at Tokyo station, we realized were not going to survive with what were wearing. What's more is I realized I have forgotten to bring sleeping clothes! I initially thought I've already brought everything since my luggage is already filled to the brim. Since we couldn't manage to get out of Tokyo Station to find the larger Uniqlo around the area, we were stuck with the smaller (non tax shop). After our initial shopping we found ourselves at character street! My hunger was replaced by my urge to buy compulsively stuff I won't need and we haven't been in Japan for long!

It took a huge effort on my part to stop myself from checking everything out. What we did was eat our first meals at one of the restaurants at the station. I got an omu rice (Reagan had curry). So far our first meals are awesome! We were also able to learn quick that in eating at restaurants, they leave you the check on the table and you have to bring it with you at the counter near the door for payment. Them taking your money and then back for your change is quite rare. This also prevents you from leaving any tips at the tables.

Before traveling to Osaka I also get to try a public toilet that had easily become my most favorite thing in Japan. Hot seats, abundant tissue, bidet, clean and best of all FREE. In our entire stay in Japan I think I have only encountered one toilet experience that wasn't at par with the rest and that is even forgivable because it was at a temple that doesn't even charge as much for their entrance fee.

+ ONKK Lions Apartment Mansion +

I though we were prepared in finding out where the apartment is. There was a video of how to get there but we couldn't find the places on it. There was a Mcdo but it was different from the Mcdo we were seeing. On our 2nd to last day in Osaka, we finally discovered said exit when we found ourselves lost at Shin-Osaka. It was indeed closer and at the same time cheaper that way. Initially our way was always at Higashimikuni that's why we always had to spend around 180Yen to and fro. It was also fully packed during rush hours too! I remembered our first day having to squeeze ourselves at the subway train ala-MRT. Anyways, I digress.

On our first night as well we were lucky to have been aided by a local who noticed us lost. Good thing she lives at the area because we already missed the entrance some steps. She walked us to where the apartment was.

From there we had to follow the rest of the instructions in getting the key, getting in, etc. The apartment is cute, there were a lot of cat decors. I also loved the smell each time we open the front door. The bed is enough for both of us and didn't feel cramped. I would have liked more pillows but so far I am OK with what was given. There's also abundant outlets for all the gadgets that need recharging and enough space for all our luggage and shopping bags.

There's a kitchenette available but we never used that part other than the scissors at the cabinet. I hope someday they just replace it with a proper wardrobe so we don't have to constantly rummage our luggage for our clothes. I mean, who cooks on a vacation anyway? I know we won't. We'd rather have tons of hangers and hooks! The toiletries available are shampoo, conditioner and body wash. They do provide towels but it's a bit thin and short. The tub is also easy to clog with fallen hair. I am glad Reagan proactively cleans it.

A few days in the aircon suddenly stopped blowing hot air. A freezing evening prompted us to seek for help from Isaac who solved our problem of a cold bed.

In our entire stay we never felt unsafe. It was indeed our home away from home. The location is amazing, we are in walking distance with so many konbini, fastfood and restaurants are a walking distance and a nearby supermarket. Before we left Osaka we finally got in (it's always closed when we come back home) as last customers. We got some snacks to take home from there since the things my officemates wanted me to buy are not available there. Also as we've learnt, you have to bring the cart back to where you got it.

Price: 10, 121.72 PHP (Inclusive of Cleaning fee)   Konbini - Convenience Stores

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Big Bad Wolf in Manila (Feb 15 2018)

Obviously this has not missed my radar. The first time I have heard of it I immediately followed their PH page and made them appear first on my feed. And on a strike of luck while we were on a train at Japan I checked Facebook to see a fresh post of them giving away passes. Later on I would find out that not only did I win, but I was THE FIRST to reply. I was really meant to go!

Initially I wanted to forgo the passes. But knowing the culture when it comes to book sales and going on a Saturday AFTER a holiday Friday is not a wise decision, I decided to just come on the Preview Day (Thursday). I will just render under time. Reagan came with (we met at Ayala, I really hate going there it's so hard to commute) to help me with my purchases. A friend of mine also came with (2 passes = 4 people) in case he could find books to add to his collection.

The first moment I came in I was overwhelmed. There's so much to see! At first we didn't have a system until Reagan and I decided to part ways so he could shop as well. The rightmost line of tables (after the ones by the wall) is so time consuming I remembered spending an hour just to finish that entire set AND that is even the quickest I could do without googling each and every title. Top 10 Things You Should Now When Going:

Do not bring food or drinks. Reagan brought the chocolates we got from KL to return to me and while no one could possibly eat those chocolates there, we are still instructed to leave it outside.

Bring eco-bags or if you're a hoarder like me, yes, a suitcase. I saw someone with one (i'm too lazy to go back to get one) to which the only fault to this system is he have to lug it around together with his cart.

Carts are provided of different shapes and sizes. I totally missed the pushcart. Would have loved having that instead of the pull types.

Do not bring your friend who is absolutely not interested in books. Not only will they be competing with floor space, out of boredom some of them are messing the arrangement of books!

Speaking of, books are all in one pile with an opened copy labeled with SAMPLE over it so you don't need to open those with plastic.

  6. Hall D is where you get to pay your purchases. Also, that is the only way for you to get out. When I met my friend I had to walk the entire stretch just to give him my extra pass instead of me handing it to him right at the entrance which is closer to where I am.

7. There's a sorting area for compulsive shoppers who could remove some items on their cart who had a sudden realization that they either couldn't afford all of it or had simply snapped out of the spell of gathering all the books they find.

8. Children's books and workbooks are plenty. They actually occupy more than General Fiction / Novels. There's also tons of recipe books and non-fiction.

9. Journals / Notebooks can be found at the cashier.

10. There are separate lines for Cash vs. Credit. It seems that they've reserved more cashiers for credit rather than cash.

It was a good experience. For a free event, I am satisfied. This is in spite of:

a. Not being able to see the titles I came for. I was hoping to get A Series of Unfortunate Events or DC Omnibus sets.

b. Seeing tons of series books ONLY to realize that you would never find the sequels to the books you wanted to try out.

c. Said series are in totally different tables. I don't know how they've arranged it but each table could have different authors, most of which could be found on other tables bearing other titles. You would literally have to take each of the series of the book until at the end you'd realize you could never complete a set then randomly leave it somewhere. I saw this phenomenon too often in this sale. It was disappointing because I am willing to spend more if I could only get the entire series home.

d. The assistants are all Jon Snows (unless I am just too unlucky to never have gotten an assistant who knows what I'm talking about) . THEY KNOW NOTHING. One of the things I love about shopping at Fullybooked and Powerbooks is how their people are knowledgeable on authors and titles. There was this girl I asked if they happen to have Harry Potter books (my officemate promised her daughter the copy of the last book and instructed me to look) and told me to go to General Fiction. The Cursed Child is literally not the only book in the series girl! The least you could do is at least know what you have!

There are tons of room for improvement for sure. IF anything, my only wish next time is that they arrange it by Author and show which titles are truly available for the set. For sure it's a win win situation since more people would be encouraged to buy more titles at once. For instance I would have completed the entire 13 books of the Foundation series by Isaac Asimov if given the chance.  I know I would.

BOOK HAUL!  

Price: 6080PHP less 230 for the French book that isn't mine. 680 each for Batman, Wonderwoman and The Best of Foxtrot; 1960 - Paulo Coelho (I am not supposed to buy this, I was waiting for him to die, but oh well. Opportunities like this are rare)

[misstinapie]

T&J Travels #10: Japan 2018 (Part 1)

​

+ Preparation +

Travel Tickets

After our VISA was issued, I started to look for affordable plane tickets. After a long ordeal of checking we ended up with Cebu Pacific. We got tickets for Narita around 26k-- inclusive of:

- 25 kilos to and 32 kilos back. We don't have both baggage allowances because neither of us have any need for OOTDs (roll eyes) and so far in all our travels we were able to squeeze all our stuff in one big luggage.

- reserved seats. I always try to get the 6th seat or any of the first 2 rows at the 2nd block.

- travel taxes (1620 each)

Hotels

By second week of January I had a few days of stressful nights looking for our hotels. We weren't able to book prior because we can't decide on where to setup base first. We ended up with traveling to Osaka as soon as we arrive at Narita and on our 6th day we'll be back to Tokyo to spend the rest of our 10 day vacation.

For Osaka I was able to get a serviced apartment. This is a first for us because we usually only stay in hotels. Since Agoda began offering houses lately it's not hard to imagine that we would eventually end into one. Initially I chose the place because of the price and the sqm it has compared to others. But then when we were given instructions by the owner we found out that it's just a 10 min walk from Shin-Osaka! It's so convenient!

Tokyo was harder. Like real harder. The hotels I liked are either already booked on my dates or have surged prices by Feb. There's this one hotel I really like that had almost tripled the price just because of the month! In the end we got this old looking hotel that offers free shuttle to Disneyland. I know we're not going, but at least I know it's in a good neighborhood. It's also near a train station and my travel goal in the name of Mcdonalds (there's a KFC near too!).

JR Pass

I don't want to try an online purchase for this because I am not sure of the delivery. It's now January and I don't want to spend days waiting for the ticket to arrive. I tried asking some travel agencies at the office but the only one that offers the pass would take 7 days (like the ones online) with a hefty price of 15k++! JR Pass costs roughly 13500++ and suddenly the one in Reli (the one I asked for first) became cheaper.

It's already the 2nd week of January and after I got my salary I went to Reli the next day. The price fluctuated to additional 200 than my previous quote but what the heck, I could not take the stress anymore. 7 working days is in my opinion is too close to our leave date so I need to act now.

When I went there I didn't need to fall in line (as instructed when I called by a man named Bong) and was already accommodated with what I need. A minute or two after payment he came back with flyers and what is this?! Sir Bong is actually handing me Exchange Orders!

I couldn't believe it! I asked why is this and he told me that they are accredited by the embassy to hand out exchange orders as needed. This maybe the reason why their pricing is not exactly today's rate. He also relayed to me how they get customers who had to go to them in haste because their passes are taking too long to arrive. Not only that, the hassle to have your payment reverted is a pain in the ass. And what if the bank won't refund you for it? Gasps! So even if I paid more than I wanted, I still felt good about it. I definitely will be going to them the next time I needed the pass. It's also great that Reli accepts both cash and card. I am not sure if you could make it as an installment though.

Wifi

Like everywhere else an overseas connection is a bit expensive. I was able to see some local companies that offer wifi for travellers but Reagan reasons that the con to this is if it doesn't work on the country you are travelling to. That risk is something we don't like to take hence we always just get a sim or a pocket wifi on the country itself. I would have booked a Klook again but I was told that their return times is a bit tight on our schedule. This is why I just let Reagan decide and as far as his research went it seemed our best option is available locally: Flytpack. A huge pro to this is it enables us to actually have internet connection the moment we step on Narita Airport up to our departure hours while we're waiting for our plane. Here's the breakdown of the cost:

Rental - 280PHP/per day (I am not sure if they really lowered their prices or it's promo. It's supposed to be 350PHP) Courier - 170PHP Deposit - 2800PHP Service Fee - 25PHP

To note too that the deposit will be refunded on your supplied bank account. UPDATE:

Received our Flytpack wifi as early as 7 days before flight. Sweet! The model we got was not the one on the website nor did it come with a powerbank. I did test connecting which is hassle free.

  Yen

I didn't get to reserve yen via BPI so I will have to get one from Sanrys again. Compared to the other exchange center at Galleria, they offer the best selling rate. I was supposed to only get 80K JPY initially ( we plan in getting more on the day before we leave) but ended up exchanging 90K JPY because they only sell Yen in 10k bills.

Studio Ghibli

It's funny that we bought our tickets even before I got our money, bought our JR Pass or reserved our pocket wifi. I have read extensively on how the tickets to Ghibli is extremely hard to get so the moment the online ticketing opened I immediately reserved two. I almost didn't get the tickets, mind you. According to the Lawson website, we could only buy tickets for February on the 10th of January. I was supposed to reserve our slot for Saturday morning but all were already taken! It's only a few minutes after 10AM (Japan time). The best schedule I could find was the last admission of Friday which I am truly hoping to have good weather. I remembered reading that they have a a beautiful Ghibli-themed garden. I am still not sure if my body could take much cold, so hopefully it won't be as freezing as I imagine it to be.

[misstinapie]

12 Monkeys (TV Series)

I haven't watched the movie so I do not know what to expect. At first I wasn't as invested as I did after a lot of episodes when they've upped their game by paradoxes and a spaghetti of time lines . Ahhh. I love it.

There's a lot of AHAs in this TV series whenever past moments are revealed and how causality dominated their world. As I go through the episodes, I become more impressed on how they were able to wrap where we already see the effect until we discover how it happened at a much later date. Even things that I think were just accidents were actually the path our time travelers should take. I also liked how they are all in one timeline and not a cop out of a multiverse.

This year would be their last season and I hope Netflix would still be there to supply me with the entire episodes. There are still a few more details they have to reveal and I for one is concerned on whether Cole and Cassie will have an ever after since the entire series revolved in them making things right (no outbreak) which also means they wouldn't have met. Come to think of it it seemed like life lived should not be un-lived since Cassie remembered an important moment that should have been wiped. There's also the matter of The Witness, like what is his/ real goal? And can Jones splinter them to the future? Is Deacon truly dead this time?

I am hopeful for a positive season in a few months!

  Image from Cinemablend

[misstinapie]

Bright (Netflix)

From the trailers, it's a cop story in an alternate world with orcs, wands and elves. We kept on seeing their ads back at KL stations last holidays obviously the first thing we did once we got back (well we slept first) was watch it on Chromecast. It was funny, it had an interesting plot and it has Noomi Rapace as a villain. Of course I will watch that.

I do not see the merit of the reviews of Bright. There are even reviews who got offended (gasps) on how orcs are depicted as racial stereotypes. If Scott Ward's character was written as white I bet hell would break loose. That 27% RT would be lower than ever. Get off your high horse guys, THIS IS JUST A FANTASY FILM. Elves at the top, humans in the middle and orcs at the bottom. Take it as it is. If it somehow resembles the racial injustice in the real world, well obviously it would. It's a low fantasy genre after all.

At any rate, I truly enjoyed it. There are a lot of things they still need to cover IMO. Now that Jakoby has proven himself as a good cop, we need to see if this world would be more lenient of his kind. What other jobs orcs do anyway? How about elves? Are they all rich snobs? So far we have not also met a truly benign elf because most of who was shown were too condescending and impatient towards humans and orcs.  I play on the idea that Ward's indifference for elves must have involved a failed romance with a too rich and gorgeous elf. I look forward to more backstories and even more of the universe. They could even go as far back as before modern times to explain the disparity of the three kinds. I'm anticipating the sequel won't take long!

Image from Indiewire

[misstinapie]

Dirk Gently's Holistic Detective Agency (Season 2)

  I really disliked the Rowdy 3 before but not this time

The first season was too out of this world I expect nothing less. For S2, they delivered alright. Filled with more characters to love and hate, the situations more outrageous. It was funny seeing a half moon face in the sky, gigantic scissors instead of swords and flying colorful shapes amongst others. It's hard to make favorites this season too because their story lines have dynamically changed them for the better (Rowdy 3, Bart) or worse (Ken). It was so good I was able to finish it in 2 days!

While the plot is strong in S1 I did find myself slightly bored. This is not the case in S2 where it felt a lot like what Adams would have liked-- less sci-fi and more whimsy. The aesthetics have improved much too. I love to hate the Suzie Boreton character who is the perfect example of someone who have shown their true colors with the power she suddenly possessed. Hobbs is another favorite of mine, he's what Bob (Stranger Things) would be like if he haven't died.

A few days after the Netflix release BBC suddenly announced that it was officially cancelled. I hope Netflix would do something about this because it's unfortunate to lose a feel good TV series like this.

  Image from showbizjunkies.com

[misstinapie]

Black Mirror (Season 4)

It's safe to say that most who watched this had to google if he was in fact Matt Damon with prosthetics. Yes, me included.

It felt  so amazing that they dropped the full season at Netflix on my birthday. I wasn't able to watch it on the day being on another country and all but as soon as I got my bearings, I got through the entire season in about 3 days. I have even finished the series even before I got rid of all my stuff splayed about on my floor.

The overall feel of the entire season was like getting a box of assorted chocolates. Of all the seasons, 4 was more diverse and even though they show you that all of the anthologies were all part of the same universe, it couldn't even be more different.

In this season, my most favorite would have to be USS Callister and the least is Metalhead.  Don't get me wrong, Metalhead is still watchable but I didn't have the slightest empathy for the character regardless of what they made of the ending. The tone and color of the episode was impressive but the plot was always BM's strong suit. I couldn't care less how artistic their cinematography is. Also to take note S4 is easier to watch than S3 which took me a much longer time to finish because it was horribly relatable. Next favorites are Crocodile - simple and more Twilight Zone-like and of course, Black Museum. To me it's a version of the Christmas Special and the only way to wrap a season.

What I do hate right now is how they've suddenly gained popularity. Don't get me wrong I'd rather have the show renewed because of it but I hated how in the Philippines' subreddit everyone is practically name dropping BM on all circumstances like as if it's something cool to be known that you watch. I hate how at the slightest anecdote it had to be BM just for the sake of, it doesn't even make sense anymore. Argh! Monkey needs a hug!

  Image from Entertainment Weekly

[misstinapie]

The 50 Peso Challenge

There was one segment of Jessica Soho last year that I diligently followed out of all the viral things they've shown there: the 50 Peso Challenge. The premise is every time you get a 50 peso bill, you are not allowed to spend it. The girl on the video was for 3 months already accumulated 40k worth of bills. In comparison, I only got half of her amount for almost a year of saving. This is because unlike her, I got all of my 50s organically. I never resorted to exchange my 1000 peso bill to 50s for the sake of it. All the bills I got were actual change when I spend. Based on the interviews she goes out of her way getting the 50 peso bills she could put in her piggy bank. It only translates to me how she's a pathological spender who suddenly tightened her belt.

It was extremely hard at first. The rest of the year was an arduous feat of calming myself when I get all 50s as change. There was even a time when the meal was 150, so I added water just to get the bill total 170PHP . I thought I beat the system until I was handed my change from my 500 bill-- 300 peso worth of 50s! I remembered screaming internally at my situation.

The entire duration I admit to have spent just one bill of all that I've collected and that is because I forgot it at that particular moment which I only realized later. Other than that I have to always hide my 50s in fear the cashier sees my wallet and force me to use that instead.

Had to use paper to hold all of the bills because one of the rubber bands suddenly snapped

I started around April and was able to raise 21, 350 Pesos. That's a combination of 50 peso bills and 200 peso bills (just 11 pcs). This is not bad considering that it felt like "free money" because the last few months of doing this I barely bat an eyelash when I get them as change anymore. Actually I am now shocked when I see people pay with it!

On the last day (Dec 31 2017) I've already removed them from my jar and compiled them in one big bundle. I was able to deposit it on a bank account that I rarely use, so it's also a good way to prevent it from going dormant.

I truly enjoyed this challenge that I have already started last Jan 1. So far I have already raised almost 1000 pesos in total because I got 3 200 peso bills (I also collect them since I rarely see those anyway) and January isn't over yet. I also think I've inspired the people around me to do the same. Even my boss started collecting too.