My favorite shopping spot is Kiyomizu-Zaka, an uphill street leading to the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Kiyomizu-Dera Temple. This street is memorable to me as this is where I bought my first decorated wooden chopsticks, the common yet famed transparent umbrella, and many other traditional crafts.

As we didn't have extra time to go on a day trip to Uji, I was still able to buy packs of premium matcha and enjoy a lovely matcha cheesecake at TEN. I would also recommend Malebranche's Langue De Chat as the perfect foodie souvenir.

This street also happens to have a Donguri Ghibli, which is a highlight of our trip. As huge fans of Studio Ghibli, my sister and I couldn't help but be excited about shopping for Ghibli collectibles.

📍 Namba, Osaka;

Namba is known for its vibrant nightlife, yet it's still worth visiting during the day. It's no secret that this district is a shopping and gastronomic paradise. When in Osaka, don't leave without trying their street food, particularly their specialties: okonomiyaki and takoyaki!