Known as the Little Kyoto, Kanazawa is the capital city of Ishikawa prefecture. Filled with beautiful historical houses, geisha and samurai districts, traditional arts and handicrafts and beautifully preserved gardens, Kanazawa is one of the most significant cities of the Edo period.

With the new shinkansen (bullet train) line directly linking Tokyo to Kanazawa, it is now so easy and (much faster) to travel to Kanazawa.

Kanazawa Gold Leaf

Did you know that Kanazawa produces 99% of all gold leaf in Japan, and 100% of domestic silver and platinum leaf?

Feather thin at 0.1 to 0.125 millionths of a meter, Kanazawa’s Gold Leaf is extremely well known for its superiority. It never oxidises or changes color, and so thin it will disappear when you rub with your fingers.

Once you arrive in Kanazawa, you will soon notice gold leaf being used in everything (almost), from food, arts and crafts to interiors.

And yes, Kanazawa is the only place you can enjoy gold-leaf-wrapped soft serve ice-cream, and even gold-leaf castella cake. These have been on my bucket list, ever since I read about them on a Japanese site.

For the gold-leaf-wrapped soft serve, highly recommend Haruichi located at Higashi Chaya district. The creamy milky ice cream is to die for, not to mention the opulence enjoyment of Japan’s finest gold leaf.

If you prefer something different, at Kanazawa station, a café retails silver- and gold-leaf wrapped soft serve ice-cream. 

The Gold castella cake is available at Kanazawa station too. You will see an entire hall filled with well-known omiyage, food and other souvenir stores selling Kanazawa products.

I was literally squealing in joy when I managed to get my hands on these cakes. They even come in limited time cutout shapes, like these ones I got.

Kagaonsen

To the south of Kanazawa city center, just 30mins’ train ride, Kaga Onsen (加賀温泉) is well-known for its collection of four hot spring towns. Highly regarded as the onsen destination by the locals, you can choose from a variety ryokan stays with baths.

It is a lovely experience for visitors and residents alike, and gives tourists with a local bathing experience that is one of a kind.

HigashiChaya and Samurai district

The best way to explore and experience the Edo history of Kanazawa is through a personalised tour with a local guide.

Through Expedia.com.sg, I booked the Samurai & Geisha Districts, Kanazawa Castle and Kenroku-en Garden Tour.

Taking a beautiful stroll along the well-preserved walls and entrances of Samurai family houses, I so wish I was dressed in Kimono. I would’ve gotten some seriously lovely pictures!

Our local guide also taught us how to recognise the architectural designs that marked these Samurai family houses.

Continuing our journey, we reached Higashi Chaya District, my favourite part of the tour.

Intimate streets with wooden lattice geisha houses, I enjoyed strolling through the geisha teahouses now filled with local stores selling Kanazawa products, wares, omiyage souvenirs and food.

We took a midday respite for lunch at Ushioya for their Fired Buri Yellowtail Sashimi bento, thanks to the recommendation by the local guide, Yamamoto san.

Kanazawa Castle Park and Kenroku-en Garden

The second part of our Samurai & Geisha Districts, Kanazawa Castle and Kenroku-en Garden Tour, was to see the beautifully restored 16th century Kanazawa Castle. 

Once home of the feudal lord Maeda Toshiie and his family, this white tile roofed castle is a beautiful sight to behold!

Nature lovers would also enjoy Kenroku-en Garden, for its lush greenery and peaceful tranquillity. 

Omicho Market

If you love local markets, fresh seafood and produce, then you must visit Omicho Market.

Omicho Market is the largest fresh food market of Kanazawa. I really liked how it had all the right vibes without being overly crowded, unlike Kyoto’s Nishiki market or Tsukiji in Tokyo, which can be teaming with tourists and overwhelming for any traveller.

Like all fresh food markets, the market is lined with speciality stores selling the freshest local seafood and produce; you can even find kitchen tools, clothing and flowers. Store owners and workers cheerfully shouting out the best deals to attract customers, locals buying produce home, here is where you can experience the real hustle and bustle of Japanese market activities.

Also spot seasonal produce such as these Matsutake mushrooms, the most expensive mushrooms known for its earthy flavour. One of the hardest to cultivate, these mushrooms are only available during the autumn season.

Before you leave, remember to try the popular Kaisendon (sashimi seafood rice bowl) at Omicho Market, almost every single sushi restaurant serves this popular dish.

We went for the well-known Yamada Sushi and queued for about 20mins before we got a seat. Just look at this overflowing bowl of sashimi! 

Shirakawa-Go Tour (UNESCO World Heritage Site)

If you are in Kanazawa, it is also a good opportunity to visit its UNESCO world heritage site – Shirakawa-go. Famous for their traditional gassho-zukuri farmhouses, some are over 250 years old!

Gassho-zukuri means “constructed like hands in prayer”. You would notice the signature steep thatched roofs, resembling the hands of Buddhist monks pressing together in prayer. And because of this unique architecture, these roofs can withstand large amount of heavy snow during winter. 

Visiting during winter and snowy season is popular for that dreamy picturesque view of the thatched roofs covered with thick layers of snow.

If you want a fuller experience, you can even choose to do a short stay at Shirakawa-go at one of their farmhouses serving as minshuku.

******

Many thanks to Expedia.com.sg for the experience!

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7 best things about Nagoya

Earlier on, when I first shared with a few friends of my planned Expedia trip to Nagoya, many gave me the puzzled look, or asked “where is Nagoya?”, “what’s so special about Nagoya?”

Located in the center of Japan, and easily accessible via shinkansen or direct flight to Nagoya’s Central Japan International Airport, this vibrant city is often overlooked. 

Singapore has direct flights to Central Japan International Airport of Nagoya, or you can easily get here via bullet train from/to Kyoto (a mere 30mins ride) or about 1hr 40mins from/to Tokyo. 

With a long history since the feudal lords era, Nagoya went through the Edo period to being one of the key modern cities of Japan, while retaining strong traditions and its own Nagoya-meshi (local cuisines). 

So if you are thinking about what to do, here is rounding up the 7 best things about Nagoya!

Enjoy Onsen ryokan away from the City

This is omotenashi (Japanese hospitality) at its very best. If you love traditional accommodation, impeccable service, onsen, ocean views, amazing food (the list goes on), then you just need to venture out of Nagoya city central a little to Wakamatsu Chita Hot Spring Resort located at Utsumi. 

With a personalised ferry service from the train station, a phone call to the ryokan brought me and my hubby to the door of this beautiful ryokan. Greeted by the sweetest ladies in Kimono, we were brought their in-house matcha tea, wagashi sweets as well as a warm foot soak at the lobby, coupled with ocean view.

After choosing 3 of my favourite yukata robes (one for each night I stayed there), we went to our room. Extremely spacious with the biggest bed I have ever seen (seriously, larger than king), we had the most gorgeous room of tatami flooring, and the scent of cedar wood filled our nostrils as we took in the setting of our accommodation. 

With two private onsen baths (one outdoor and one indoor), and two public onsen baths (one for male and one for female), it’s time to enjoy onsen.

During night time, it might be better to enjoy the indoor private onsen, especially during colder months. But in the mornings, the rooftop private onsen boasting an unobstructed view of the ocean was heavenly. 

A hungry man is an angry man. Trust me, you will never be angry here at Wakamatsu Chita Hot Spring Resort. They served the most beautiful and sumptuous Japanese breakfast ever. Breakfast is served in your room, like private butler style. Each day, you can indicate the time you would like them to bring the food to you. 

Frankly I have nothing but good things to say about this place. My hubby literally didn’t want to go back to the city at the end of our stay :P

Eat the cutest omiyage at Nagoya station

One of the most well known edible omiyage (souvenir) is the Pyorin cake from カフェ　ジャンシアーヌ at Nagoya station. 

Shape as a cute chick, Pyorin represents the kochin chicken by using the kochin eggs in its production.  

You would love the pudding and vanilla mousses shaped like cute baby chicks and covered with a thin layer of sponge cake crumbs. 

Pyorin offers seasonal specials. Since it was autumn and nearing Halloween, they had the pumpkin version too. I even spotted sakura ones in some of the older IG postings by other users. 

Pyorin is sold only at the Cafe Gentiane at Nagoya Station for 320 yen a piece.

Go early, these cuties do get sold out on peak days. 

Get a stunning photoshoot in kimono

When in Japan, wear Kimono. One of my personal mantra. 

While you are in Nagoya, why not get fitted in a traditional Japanese kimono for a stunning photo shoot in a professional studio.

My jaw dropped with I saw the hundreds of kimonos varying in style, period, and colour at Kyoto haregi J STYLE (京都晴れ着 J STYLE).

As the lovely ladies fuss over me to get me dressed up, dolled up to into a convincing Japanese beauty, I headed into the photo studio for my shoot. 

No worries if you are not sure about poses or props. These experienced experts will guide you through everything, from where are hands would be to your facial angle to ensure you look the best. 

Hehehe…. revealing some of my photos :)

Enjoy the traditional Shodo, Japanese calligraphy

A firm believer of experiencing culture of the cities I visit, Shodo – Japanese calligraphy is a way you can discover the beauty of writing and Japanese characters. 

In the intimate class session I had, I was taught how to handle the tools and pick up the techniques and posture to grip my fude (brush) to paint the brushstrokes. 

Step by step, stroke by stroke, we (I) moved on to write “love,” while my hubby picked “samurai”.

I liked how the class is kept intimate so we get alot of personal attention from the teacher and got to take home our own calligraphy as a one-of-a-kind souvenir.

Taste the allure of Nagoya-Meshi

”Nagoya-Meshi”is a term meaning the local cuisine in Nagoya. Known for their harmonious flavours of sweet and salty that is unique to Nagoya, found neither in other cities like Tokyo or Kyoto.

Let’s start off with Ogura toast – that is azuki red beans on thick toast.

Regarded as a food invention conceived in Nagoya, it comprises of buttery toasted bread topped generously with ogura-an (sweet red bean paste). A heavenly combination. 

This toast is well known to be served at coffee houses at Nagoya, and is so popular that you will find many other snacks or omiyage with the ogura toast flavour. 

I visited Kihachi Cafe for their famous Matcha ogura toast. 

Love the addition of delicate whip and the generous azuki beans! so yummy!

Recommended by my Japanese friend, I visited Misokatsu Yabaton – Yabacho Restaurant (みそかつ 矢場とん 矢場町本店) for their Misokatsu(Pork Cutlet with Thick Miso Sauce).

Their pork cutlets, crispy on the outside and tender inside, are all made with pork from southern Kyushu. Their traditional aka-miso sauce, made from natural soybean miso that takes 3 years to ferment!

So many more Nagoya-meshi I wanted to try (not enough time!!), I managed to eat Hitsumabushi (Grilled Eel on Rice) a style of cooking eel that is unique to Nagoya. Visited the over 140 years old Atsuta Horaiken – Main Restaurant (あつた蓬莱軒 本店) for their trademark Hitsumabushi dish. 

Sitting in a tatami room, the tray came with freshly grilled-upon order eel sliced up and served on rice in a wood tub. 

Oh, did you know that there is actually a special procedure to eat and enjoy this dish?

To start, put a quarter portion of the eel rice into your bowl and enjoy as it is. 

Then you have the second serving and this time, add in the condiments including wasabi, seaweed and spring onions to your liking. 

For the third portion, you add the dashi broth over it, like o-chazuke soup with rice. 

For the final portion, enjoy the best of the 3 ways you liked the most!

Experience the magic of food samples

I think many people including myself are always amazed at how realistic and delicious looking the Japanese food sample displays are. 

This round, I got the chance to try making these tasty looking wax and plastic food samples. 

Just a stone’s throw from Nagoya station on the Higashiyama line, I arrived at Chukyo Shokuhin Sample Shop (#中京食品サンプル) and made tempura and ice cream parfait with my hubby. 

We even got a tour after the workshop to see the real master craftsmen at work creating the food samples!

Visit Satsuki and Mei’s House from the movie My Neighbor Totoro. 

Ghibli fans out there, this is something you do not want to miss out. 

Added this in, even though I didn’t manage to make it at the end. 

Located at Morikoko Park (Ai-chikyuhaku Kinen Koen) in the Nagakute-cho region of Aichi, which is only about 40 mins out of Nagoya city, visit the recreation of Satsuki and Mei’s House from the movie My Neighbor Totoro. 

Do note that to enter the house, tickets are required. It is recommended to get the tickets prior at Lawsons (in case they run out when you arrive at the park). 

Do get more details at their English site here. 

******

Many thanks to Expedia.com.sg for the experience!

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The post Booking my Trip to Japan with Expedia.com.sg appeared first on Little Miss Bento.

When we decided to head back to Japan this Autumn, it was quite a last minute decision and I was only left with 2 weeks to plan my trip. Honestly, that was quite scary for me as I usually plan my trips way in advance.

Reason being that with the exception of summer, the other seasons like spring, autumn and winter are popular for travel in Japan, so it could be either really expensive airfare or hotels being booked out way in advance.

So this time, I tried using Expedia.com.sg as the one stop platform to work on my travel plans and bookings. Amazed that I was able to book my entire trip – flights, hotels and even the activities to do, all in a day’s worth of effort. 

This time round, we decided to head to Nagoya and Kanazawa before heading back to Tokyo.

Have been meaning to visit Nagoya but was not able to in my last trip as I couldn’t find a accommodation during spring season. At that time, I haven’t found Expedia yet, and was booking through an online hotel booking site.

Many people travelling between Kansai and Kanto area, Osaka to Tokyo, often skip Nagoya. Did you know that Nagoya (名古屋) is Japan’s fourth populated city, a vibrant hub with a long history since the Edo period.

Plus you can also do a day tour to Shirakawa UNESCO World Heritage Site from Nagoya too – will talk about that later.

So first up, I needed a flight to Nagoya and then back from Tokyo.

Once that is done, it was time to move on to accommodation.

I even compared the hotel stay prices on Expedia with another online hotel booking site (that I used previously) just to make sure that I was indeed getting the better deal.

And true enough, the deal on Expedia was more value for money (for the same hotels) and I saved quite a fair bit of money (yay to more shopping! Haha).

Plus there are additional savings as I booked a flight and hotel package.

Like the booking of flight, you can sort the hotels by preference of property class, prices, location etc.

Once my flight and accommodation were booked, they all appeared neatly in the Itineraries section (under Manage Trips) and also on the Expedia mobile app.

I especially liked how seamless this is.

No need to scramble to search for info, or print things out. Just open the mobile app and voila, everything is there.

Plus they are neatly arranged in order of arrival and date of the check in or activities.

So yes… you might have spotted some fun activities I have included?

So now that everything is done (phew), its time to enjoy myself in Japan.

I’m always making real Japanese food, now I have a chance to make the wax samples instead!

So super excited.

Remember to follow me on my Instagram and blog for the updates on my Japan travel!

The post Planning my Japan trip with Expedia.com.sg appeared first on Little Miss Bento.

In recent years, due to my busy schedule and travelling, I haven’t had the opportunity to practise yoga as often as before and have also noticed a slight weight gain (T T).

Since I am not really for diet pills (I have tried them years ago – they worked but the weight loss never stays), I wanted to explore alternatives.

When Ma Kuang approached me late last year, I felt that TCM (traditional chinese medicine) could help me along to achieve a healthier weight.

I felt quite assured as Ma Kuang in Singapore has established itself as a reliable and high quality TCM clinic and healthcare provider , and known to be one of the leaders in industry.

They provide a wide spectrum of services including TCM consultation、TCM TuiNa Therapy、Cupping、Head stress release、Slimming TuiNa Therapy、Problem Skin Treatment and more.

Conveniently located at Pacific Plaza in Orchard Road, I made my way for my first visit with much anticipation.

In total, I tried out 4 sessions of their Slimming TuiNa Therapy.

There was absolutely no cheating as before each session, my detailed body measurements were taken and I will have a personal consultation with the sensei (chinese doctor).

There after, there will be a Slimming TuiNa session, cupping as well as acupuncture.

Here was my measurement at session 1:

And here are my measurements at session 4:

I was pleasantly surprised that I lost about 1 kg, and I didn’t even reduce my food intake :P But to get more results, I believe I will have to go for more sessions and also make a greater change in my dietary and fitness regime.

MKB Orchard (Beauty/Slimming/Spa)

The post Ma Kuang – Slimming TuiNa Therapy appeared first on Little Miss Bento.

I finally decided to straighten my teeth.

Due to my small jaw, I have had misaligned teeth for as long as I can remember.

In my younger days, my parents were not so aware of the dental treatments and I was also afraid of the pain caused by wearing traditional braces. Not to mention that it was visibly obvious too.

Recently with the changes in technology, and also because of the nature of my work that sometimes requires me to be in front of the camera of media, I thought that it would be good to fix up my teeth.

I visited their Glittz Smile Dental Surgery by FDC which is located at Nehsons Building Branch (Tanjong Pagar area) at Peck Seah Street.

The moment I stepped into the clinic, I was pleasantly surprised that it was atypical of dental clinics.

Most of us have fears of visiting dentist (I know!).

Glittz Smile Dental Surgery by FDC almost feels like you are entering a modern spa, with modern finishing, a spacious sofa reception area and even a play area for those with young children. They even offer drinks while you wait. Talk about good service ;)

After my initial consultation session at Glittz Smile Dental Surgery by FDC, I was so thrilled that there is now the option of MBrace. MBrace is a clear/invisible aligner used in dentistry to straighten teeth (as compared to using braces).

After understanding more about MBrace, it soon became clear to me that it was the perfect choice.

It is visibly clear and does not require any brackets or wires unlike traditional metal braces.

I can also easily remove the aligners when I need to brush or floss my teeth or when eating. Also, there are no fixed brackets or wires that trap food bits, and no ‘attachments’ to limit plaque build-up.

This means less disruptions to my daily routine, food tastings, OOTDs and most would not even know that I am straightening my teeth – okay unless they read this blog ;P

In my first MBrace consultation, a mold of both my upper and lower set of teeth were taken. All I needed was to chew on this gummy thingy. 

A computer simulation was then used for true stepwise teeth movement. This ensures that the custom-made digitally crafted clear orthodontic aligners will be of high precision fit and comfort.

My second visit allowed me to view the simulation on the anticipated improvements to my dental alignment. As a patient, it really made a difference to be able to visualise my teeth’s final position.  I also extracted a tooth to make space to realign my upper set of teeth.

And about two weeks later, I received my set of aligners! I was also taught how to put on and remove them, as well as some of the advice on having their aligners on.

Check this out, without aligners.

And with the aligners on.

They are really not noticeable right? :)

Timeline, Process 

How often are the MBrace aligners changed? A single set of aligners are used for 2 weeks before moving to the next set of aligners.

Can the MBrace aligners be removed? The aligners can be removed when eating, drinking or brushing of teeth. Aside from that, the aligners should not be removed.

Now what is timeline like? I was advised that I would probably need to have the treatment for one year to correct my teeth.

For every set of aligners, I will wear them for 2 weeks, 20-22 hours each day, before changing to the next set.

Depending on individual’s teeth condition, it usually takes 1 or 1.5 years to complete the treatment.

Okay, as I am writing this post, I am wearing my second set of aligners. I felt that it would be fair and more accurate to write a post only after experiencing it.

Visibility

No one will notice 99% of the time.

I think the most conscious person is actually myself. Even my parents didn’t notice I had my aligners on when I lunched with them!

My first week was the hardest but I soon got used to talking, smiling and kind of ignoring the fact that I actually have the aligners on.

Your speech may be temporarily affected in the first 1-2 days of wearing them – it goes away – don’t worry. Just don’t plan on some major or huge speech when you first start out on the aligners.

Brushing of teeth, eating habits

First – be prepared to brush your teeth a lot more often. In fact, this means everytime you ate (or have snacked). This means making some adjustments to your lifestyle.

The pros are that I literally stopped snacking (yay!) and also stopped drinking sweet drinks, changing my beverages to water.

Also my oral hygience is at its tiptop, since I am taking such good care and brushing my teeth after each meal.

You can still drink coffee and tea and note that they could possibly stain your aligners. I would recommend drinking anything other than water with straw, and if need, rinse after.

Having to brush your teeth after every meal meant that I had to have my toothbrush and toothpaste with me on the go. So you will need a travel pack in your handbag. I also keep another toothbrush/toothpaste set in my office.

You might also find that the constant brushing may dry your lips, so slap on your favourite lipgloss or lipstick :) the good thing is that I look more made up than usual now. haha

Soreness

I will be lying if I told you that you wouldn’t feel a thing. Every change of a new set of aligners comes with soreness and tightness – this is kind of good as this means that the teeth are being aligned, ie moved.

It gets better usually after the first 3 days of every new aligner set.

Good thing, no ulcers and no other pain from wearing these aligners!

So there you go, I can’t wait to show you my results mid way through, probably around 6 months from now, and then 1 year! Stay tuned!

FDC

Aside from MBrace, FDC and it wide network of dental clinics in Singapore offer all general and aesthetic dental treatments

Visit www.fdc.sg, choose your favourite clinic and call the clinic to make an appointment,

or

visit FDC’s Flagship clinic, Glittz Smile Dental Surgery by FDC at Tanjong Pagar, Nehsons Building

The post Glittz Smile Dental Surgery – MBrace appeared first on Little Miss Bento.

Part 2 of my awesome visit to Kobe city in Japan. Read part 1 here.

Aside from the various key areas I visited , I wanted to highlight several other really awesome attractions and experiences I had in Kobe.

二郎農園 Strawberry picking at Niro-Ichigo Farm 

http://www.kobe-kanko-engei.jp/farm.php?id=13

神戸市北区有野町二郎(各地)

I had my first and the most amazing ichigo picking experience at Niro-ichigo Farm.

Each of the strawberries were super sweet and soft, every one we picked was perfect! This is a must visit for those travelling to Kobe.

The season is from mid January to early June. Did you know that their strawberries are so popular locally that they do not even produce enough to export these amazing strawberries outside of Japan? So you have to try them if you visit Kobe.

They take reservations but also accept walk ins. As they could get quite popular, it might be good to make reservations prior to going down.

酒心館 Shu Shin Kan Sake Brewery and Store

http://www.shushinkan.co.jp/ (Japanese)

http://enjoyfukuju.com/english/our_brewery/index.html (English)

Address: 株式会社神戸酒心館　〒658-0044　神戸市東灘区御影塚町1-8-17

Located in Nada district of Kobe,250 years old sake brewery Shu Shin Kan is extremely known for their premium and award winning sake.

The quality of the locally grown Japanese rice and the purity of the water filtered from streams high in the Rokko Mountains; are essential to the brewing of their premium sake.

Using these best rice and water, their sake is produced using traditional handcrafting techniques to create that fruity, umami, and smooth premium flavour.

Their sake has won top accolades and awards both in Japan and internationally. It was even served as celebratory drink for Nobel prize awards.

Recommend to visit their shop after the brewery tour and to get some of their amazing sake. They also have a Japanese fine dining restaurant where you can enjoy washoku (Japanese cuisine) and their sake.

竹中大工道具館 Takenake Carpentry Tools Musuem

http://www.dougukan.jp/ (Japanese)

http://www.dougukan.jp/about_architecture?lang=en (English)

Note: Workshops registrations are by walk-in and are only available on weekends.

Address: 日本, 〒651-0056 兵庫県神戸市中央区熊内町７丁目５−１

Hours: 930am to 430pm (last admission 4pm), Closed on Mondays

I am usually not a museum type of traveller, but Takenaka Carpentry Tools Museum was totally worth the visit. I learnt so much about Japanese traditional architecture and carpentry.

Relocated near Shin-Kobe station since autumn 2014, this musuem is popular with local and international travellers. And it was one of the best museums I have been to.

In there, you can see, feel and touch the art behind the renowned skills of Japanese master craftsmen.
And even make something on your own, like chopsticks, cute plates, or even mini chair. I made my own chopsticks! It was so fun~~

Night View in Kobe

http://www.feel-kobe.jp/_en/night/

Night view in Kobe, is well known amongst the Japanese as the “10 million-dollar sparkling view”. There are various night view spots in the city, including Kobe Port area to Rokko Garden Terrace.

Remember to arm yourself with a camera to get some of these beautiful illumination in photos.

神戸北野異人館店 Starbucks, Kobe Kitano Ijinkan Store

http://www.starbucks.co.jp/store/concept/kobe/index.html

Address: 〒650-0002 兵庫県 神戸市中央区 北野町3-1-31 北野物語館

Hours: 8am to 10pm, open daily

You might ask.. why Starbucks? Not just any Starbucks but this particular one – the Kobe Kitano Ijinkan Store, is located in a beautiful, 19th century old Western style building. 

What is so special is that once you enter the historical building, it feels like travelling back in time.

There are a total of 7 rooms with different decoration and set up, from lounge, to a book reading room and even a dining room. I almost couldn’t decide where to sit.

Although I ended up enjoying the alfresco seats since the weather was wonderful that day.

However, do note that the menu in their Starbucks is the same as the rest in Japan city.

Kobe Sweets and Bread

Isuzu Bakery http://isuzu-bakery.jp/

Patisserie Tooth Tooth http://www.toothtooth.com/patisserie/

Did you know that Kobe is the largest bread consumer in the whole of Japan. Not surprising that there are numerous bakeries around selling Danish bread, Japanese bread, German bread… take your pick!

One of the biggest bakery in Kobe is Isuzu bakery. This bakery has been providing bread for locals for some 50 years. The baker at Isuzu Bakery has also been appointed as a Kobe Meister in the category of bread making.

Because of Kobe’s history and status as a port, the influx of western culture also meant that Kobe is the birthplace of Japanese western sweets (yogashi).

As a result, there are so many top notch pastry cafes and patisseries in Kobe. I wished I had more time to eat more desserts but I did had the luck to try out Tooth Tooth patisserie, a well know pastry cafe. Their maison 15th outlet is housed in a beautiful old building and service is top notch of fine dining standards.

Seems like their high tea is very popular too – it was sold out by the time I arrived at 4pm.

The post Visit Kobe (part 2) appeared first on Little Miss Bento.

When I say Kobe, many non Japanese might only think of the famous Kobe beef. But did you know that this city is way more than just beef, it is a vibrant hub of exciting attractions and good food. One that would please both solo travellers, couples and families too.

Thanks to the invite by Kobe City, I was able to experience a memorable visit travelling to Kobe.

Kobe, spans from their well known waterfront port area to shopping streets and chic mountain area. Best part if that the fun never ends even when the sun sets. The night in Kobe is just as exciting as the day.

Getting to Kobe?

Being the 6th largest city in the whole of Japan, Kobe like the other major cities is well connected. Kobe City can be accessed easily from airports such as Osaka’s Kansai Airport or Kobe Airport, with major trains like shinkansen, JR and buses running in the city too.

Plan your access via Kobe’s official tourism site here http://www.feel-kobe.jp/_en/

There are some many areas to explore in Kobe, I wished I can cover more during this trip. Here are some of the highlights of my visit.

Harborland and Meriken Park Area

This area is not to be missed for Kobe’s signature waterfront scenery, offering different views in the day and at night.

The Kobe Port Tower at 108 meter, is actually the first lattice tower in the world!

The Meriken Park which is close to the Meriken Peir was first opened as a gateway to shipment cargoes from all over the world in the 19th century.

After all the romantic sightseeing, head over to Kobe Harbourland Umie for some shopping. A vast shopping mall with numerous shopping and dining options. I particularly loved the character store street!

If you are like me and love cute goods, then you must not also miss out the Anpanman Musuem just next to Harbourland. The musuem also has a special level with store and eateries selling all Anpanman goods!

Motomachi and Nankinmachi (Chinatown)

One of the most famous major Chinatowns in Japan, you will find over 100 Chinese restaurants and other stores. I even spotted some really cute steam buns – just look at that chick.

Need a place to rest? Hop over to the Owl Cafe in Kobe. One of the few Owl animal cafe in Japan. It was such an amazing experience getting up and close with the owls. They were so gentle and loved it when gently stroke on the head.

The store assistants will instruct you what you can or cannot do. For instance no flash light from the cameras as it would scare these sweet little creatures.

Sannomiya 

Shopaholics alert! A must go for the best fashion, beauty and great dining stores.

One of the most lively areas in Kobe, with major train stations in the area, this is also the place where you can visit your favourite high end fashion stores, multi stories tall Tokyu Hands and Loft, SOGO, Daimaru and even a 24hrs supermarket.

Bye bye my wallet :P

A vibrant city that has almost everything for the different travellers coming to Kobe.

The post Visit Kobe appeared first on Little Miss Bento.

What is Kobe Selection? Kobe Selection is an annual listing of the top selections from the best Kobe sweets, food, fashion, beauty and goods

This year, in 2016 is Kobe Selection 9. See their official website here: http://www.kobe-selection.jp/

I had the privilege to visit some of the big names, witness behind-the-scenes and  taste/try their products; it was way too awesome.

Here are my favourite picks (in no order of preference)

=FOOD=

Frantz (pudding)

http://www.frantz.jp

Kobe is famous for its sweets and pudding is probably consider one of their signature.

Frantz from Kobe does some of the best renditions of this sweet dessert with an incredible melt in the mouth texture topped with fresh delicate whip.

These pudding are so fresh that you have to enjoy these sweets while you are there as they are not allowed on international flights. Good news is that Frantz have a cafe with seating at Mosaic, HarborLand which is perfect for enjoying their pudding.

Pudding comes in variety of flavours including original, sweet potato, houjicha, as well as seasonal limited time offerings like berry sweets collection for their latest Spring collection.

For omiyage, they are also well known for several items including their chocolate and strawberry truffle sweets. Just look at these beautiful strawberry truffles.

A ingenious combination of tangy fresh strawberries that are freeze dried and encased in high quality white chocolate. Even for a non white chocolate fan, these won my heart. And they sure make great gifts. 

Kobe Baikado (Wafer fruits biscuits)

http://www-kobe-baikado.com

The only maker in Japan of these handmade wafer fruits biscuits. These handmade baked goods require so much precision and selection of ingredients, it is a no wonder only Kobe Baikado is able to produce these must buy omiyage snacks.

All my friends loved the wafer biscuits. I personally love the taste of the fresh fruits with the wafer, they are perfect with a cup of tea or coffee.

If you are not fruit fan, do not worry – they also have chocolate and matcha wafer bisuits with caramel fillings. Unlike most caramel biscuits, these are perfect with that ending bitter notes of the burnt sugar, very suited for adults.

The best place to buy these in Kobe is at basement of SOGO mall.

Kobe Ikanago

http://www.rakuten.co.jp/kobeshi-gyokyo

These little fishes are a nickname – Kobe fish. Yes, they are symbolic of Kobe.

Best caught in the waters of Kobe in March and April, these little fishes are cooked in Japanese soy sauce, soft brown sugar and ginger creating that intense flavour that is almost addictive.

I had the pleasure to join them to view the fishing experience and factory to see how these fishes are freshly prepared and packed for sale. It was so delicious I bought a box home (wished I could bring more back!).

I can just eat this with plain Japanese rice or porridge. It is that good.

Kobe SMC ( Tea)

http://smc-shop.net

Well known as a remedy for skin and good for health, these rose tea are not only pretty in colour, they taste good too.

Aromatic floral notes evident in the tea and a sweet ending makes this a great tea for afternoon tea or pairing with desserts.

=FASHION=

Wataya (Indigo dye products)

http://e-wataya.jp

Store address: 〒670-0034 姫路市船丘町296番地

TEL.079-294-5555 Hours: 10am to 7pm (Closed on Tuesdays).

In a world where everything (almost) is made synthetically or mass produced, this 130 years old maker WATAYA in Kobe still uses all natural products and traditional methods in their textile goods.

Once you enter their store, you will see a sea of products in a beautiful indigo blue hue. Yes, their products are dyed using natural indigo dye extracted from plants.

All natural products also means that their goods are safe for children and baby too.

Their store is near Himeiji castle, which makes this a great shopping stop after sightseeing.

Chocolatan Kobe (Chocolate design fashion products)

http://chocolatan.co.jp

When i posted this online, this garnered quite a lot of attention. Not surprising since this is indeed uniquely Chocolatatan Kobe. Chocolate design leather goods ranging from card holders, handphone casing, to bags and even ties.

Yes, this series is designed with both male and female users in mind.

I personally love white, so I picked the white handphone casing. Which ‘chocolate’ would you like?

Using a special technique, Chocolatan Kobe is able to create the special groove design of the chocolate bar with leather. Pretty impressive!

Also retailing at 神戸百貨店 at Mosaic, HarborLand.

=BEAUTY=

Mutenka Sekken (Natural soap and beauty products)

http://mutenka-sekken.com

It is really hard to find all natural products these days and the soap products from Mutenka Sekken stands out from the rest by insisting on using only pure natural ingredients in their products.

Making these suitable for sensitive and allergic skin and anyone who do not like chemicals and added artificial ingredients in their beauty products.

Some of the ingredients in their soap include almond oil, cocoa butter, honey, rosehip, vanilla oil etc.

Their newest series include a four seasons soap – Spring, Summer, Autum and Winter.

Each of these addictive free soap with elements suited for the season’s weather.

Also retailing at 神戸百貨店 at Mosaic, HarborLand.

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In Singapore, we have the privilege of having drinkable water on the tap but what happens when we are on the go, or travelling? That is when I got introduced to Easicup – A modern filtration product that can fit almost any regular cup or mug and very portable.

Launched just late last year in December, Easicup is proudly designed in Singapore and is available at most Home-Fix store in Singapore.

With a choice of 4 colours launched here in Singapore, my favourite is the Sun Set colour, a lovely peachy pink colour.

Easicup promises to be effective in blocking out sediments and suspended particles as well as to help prevent the growth of bacteria in your drinking water. The filtration process also reduces contaminants, impurities, and volatile organic compoind in the tap water that helps reduce the chlorine consumed.

Some of you will sometimes say that our tap water has a somewhat metallic taste? This should help in creating better tasting water on the go!

I was presented with a review Easicup set that contained the silicon filter cup, with a three step filter of silver impregnated activated carbon with antibacterial properties from Japan.

One thing I noticed is that the silicon filter cup is best suited for regular size mugs, and mugs that are not too shallow such as the ones I am using here. 

The filteration process also means that you will need to wait for short while (not long) before enjoying the clean water to drink. And you will also need a bag or tray or some sort to transfer/take out the filter cup so that you can have your drink.

In addition, it is recommended to get extra filters so that you can change the filter every 5 to 7 days (for regular usage).

Considering its portable size and design, this product will well suit travellers and those who wish to have clean affordable filtered water anywhere they go.

Easicup

Website http://www.easicup.com/

Facebook https://www.facebook.com/easicup 

Instagram https://www.instagram.com/easicup/

The post is brought to you by Uniquos.

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