Up in Shibuya Sky

Shibuya Sky is a new attraction that offers an aerial view of Tokyo from 230 meters up. Located at the rooftop of the Scramble Square. They started their operation last month, November 1/2019. A complex building for dining, shopping and entertainment. 

Opens from 9:00 am to 11:00 pm
Ticket price :  ¥2000/adult

Online reservation       :  ¥1800/adult


Sky Gate:

Upon purchasing your ticket, you will be lifted to the 14F to wait for your turn. From there, you can see  and enjoy the view of the famous Shibuya crossing. Then you will be elevated to the Sky Gate on the 46th floor. The 3D effect during the elevator ride is so cool.

For safety reasons, you will be directed to leave your bags in the locker area. A ¥100 is needed to make the lock work. Tripod and selfie sticks are prohibited.

Sky  Stage : 

You will now be allowed to enter the Sky Stage on the roof top. It is an open-air space observation deck where you can see the 360-degree view of the city. I have seen Tokyo Skytree, Tokyo Tower, Shinjuku Garden and I was lucky that Mount Fuji showed up that day. The corner with a little lower glass wall is the best spot for your snapshot, but there will be a long queue.

There is a comfortable sitting area on the other side and at the center of the square is this helipad which is also ideal for  an instragramable shot. Do not forget your sunnies if you are planning to visit in the daytime. If you are travelling solo, there are giant mirrors for you to take your selfie :)

Sky Gallery: 

If the weather didn't permit, you may still enjoy the view via Sky Gallery. I wasn't able to visit that indoor observation deck, but it looks nice based on the pictures. We opted to eat somewhere else because restaurants are already packed with customers.

How To Get There : 

Scramble Square is connected to Shibuya station. It is in front of the B6 exit on the B2 floor.

I came from Yokosuka. 

I took a train from Chuo to Shinagawa via Keikyu Line then to Shibuya via JR Yamanote line.

If you are coming from Yokohama then go to Shibuya via Toyoko Line. 

I spent about ¥1500 in my passmo card back and forth.

Shibuya station is huge, but if you know how to read and follow google map, you will be okay. Japanese are helpful, you can always ask for help. The stations also  give free access to the internet, no need to worry about your phone data not working abroad. I strongly suggest that you get familiar before leaving. Download navigation apps and read travel guides. You can find tons of it online.

“Happiness is not something ready made. It comes from your own actions.”    ― Dalai Lama XIV

Highly Rated Make-up From 100 Yen Shop

I love 100 yen shop. I always drop by whenever I get the chance. The place where I can buy without worrying about the price. These beauty products that I will be sharing  are cheap but work as good as drugstore makeup. Ideal for daily use and for women who are budget conscious like me. 

Where to buy :     Daiso, CanDo, Watts, or Seria.

Price :                   ¥100 + 10% tax or about 

1. Lip Gloss

ratings : 4.5 stars

Oil in lip moisturizing lip gloss from Art Collection. Gives your lips a natural shine without drying. Popular among students. They are actually raving about it. Although, you have to re-apply after you eat but for its price, its not too bad. I still have yet to find where to get the new shades. There are 7 to choose from. I have the red, coral and nude.

2. Eyeshadow

ratings : 4.5 stars

Mio Piccolo 2way Eye Crayon. It can be use as an eyeliner or eyeshadow.  I bought the lightest one first, to check the quality and I like it. I decided to buy more shades. It is cheap but does the job. Easy to apply and stays longer.  

There's this Japanese website that I always check for reviews and feedback called LIPS. Aside from sharing their thoughts about the product, they also share some tips on how to use it effectively. I find it useful and picked up the ones that I liked the most.

Guide 1 :

lipscosme.com

Guide 2 :

lipscosme.com

Mix and match depending on your mood or just simply apply under eye for some tear bag effect like the one below. It will brighten your eyes in an instant, its as if you were smiling. 

Guide 3 :

lipscosme.com

3. Eyebrow/ Eye Liner

 I'm also using an eyebrow and eyeliner from 100 yen shop. I got the brown liner from Daiso for ¥200. The black color is always sold out. I like it because it doesn't smudge.

These can be a perfect pasalubong for your girls. 

These are my current favorites. I use it after my Canmake multi eyebase which I bought for ¥500. How about you? What do you like to buy in 100 yen shop? I would love to hear about it :)

You don't need to buy expensive cosmetics; almost anything will do if you know how to apply it. -Dolly Parton

12 Must-Buy Japanese Makeup and Beauty Products

My Japan vacation is almost up. I would like to share these beauty products that I bought, which have positive feedback online. They are okay for acne-prone skin like me. I'm not a make-up junkie, but being surrounded by women whose skincare is a priority made me conscious about how I look. It may not be all, but mostly women from teenagers to elders are into cosmetics. There are beauty product stores everywhere. Someone told me that it's a sign of respect and part of their lifestyle. Even comfort rooms have space to retouch your make up separated from the wash area. That's how they are. 

 ¥100 = about Php 50 or technically equivalent to a dollar.

1. Saborino Morning Mask (¥ 420)

BCL Brand Saborino

 An all-in-one mask that works as face-washing, skincare, and moisturizing foundation by simply applying it to the skin for 1 minute  after waking up.

also available in a monthly packaging. 32 sheets for  ¥ 1300.

2. Cezanne Make Keep Base (¥ 600)

Cezanne

Prevent sebum shine.

Available in 2 colors. Pink beige and light blue.

SPF28 / PA ++ / No UV absorber / No fragrance / No mineral oil

3. Kate Secret Skin Maker Zero (¥ 1, 600)

ZERO skin integrated liquid foundation.
For a finish that does not feel heavy while hiding pores and irregularities.

Available in 5 shades.

30mL.  SPF18 / PA ++

4. Daiso Espoleur Concealer (¥ 100)

Works as good as drugstore cosmetics. For its price it's impressive to be ranked as one of the best under eye concealer. 

5. Kate Face Powder (¥ 1, 300)

Light and smooth skin finish loose type face powder that suppresses shine and breakage from above liquid foundation and BB cream, naturally covers and improves transparency

Choose between Glow Type & Natural Type

6. Canmake Lasting Multi-Eyebase WP (¥ 500)

Canmake Lasting Multi-Eyebase WP

Eye shadow, eyebrow, eyeliner, multi-use eye makeup base.

Tightly adheres to keep the fresh finish for a long time.

7. Kate 3D Parts Designer (¥ 1, 200)

Pencil type shading & highlight powder

[Shading] Dark beige that can be used in places where you want to add shadows or intensify

[Highlight] Pink white that can be used in areas that you want to show bright and high

8. Heroine Long and Curl Mascara Super WP (¥ 1000)

Heroine

1000

Long and lasting curl. Does not smudge. Super waterproof.

Contains eyelash beauty serum ingredients

9. Biore Make Up Remover (¥ 278)

Biore

Blend an appropriate amount (about 4 pumps) with the makeup and rinse thoroughly. This is best if you are using waterproof make eye make up.

I bought a smaller size to test if it will work on my acne prone prone skin. Will purchase again before I leave.

The bigger one cost about ¥ 1000.

10. Naturie Skin Conditioning Gel (¥ 900)

Naturie

A firmly moisturizing gel that does not feel sticky. The long lasting moisture does not feel sticky or leave an unpleasant coat over the skin and can be used for a variety of purposes. 

Use as a moisturizing serum,primer or an all in one gel and so on. Can also be used for moisturizing the body.

11. MegRhythm Steam Eye Mask (¥ 98)

MegRhythm Steam Eye Mask

 This “steam bath for the eyes” helps with deep release the tension of the day and soothes you to a comfortable and relaxed state. It is designed to warm up when the pouch is opened, so it's ready to use immediately.

Whether you're sitting up or lying down, it fits closely to the eye area.

Also available in 5 pcs for ¥ 478

12. Choosy Lip Mask Basic Series (¥ 100)

Choosy Lip Pack 

I bought it because of its cute packaging. Its a lip moisturizing mask perfect for me time. It also says that you can use it for your nipples. There are 5 scents to choose from. 

If you have any recommendations, please let me know. Thanks for checking out my blog :)

“The most beautiful makeup of a woman is passion. But cosmetics are easier to buy.”― Yves Saint Laurent

A Day in Kamakura

A day before my birthday, I was toured by a  friend who used to live in Kamakura a couple of years back. It was such a nice way to celebrate my existence. Life is good, indeed.

 It was my third visit to this city, and I just can't help but be mesmerized with its charm. It's giving me a Kyoto vibe. I felt like I don't need to go there because all I wanted to see is already here. It also used to be the capital of Japan. 

In the past, I visited Kotoku-in Temple where I saw the big Buddha statue and recently, I went to the bamboo garden of Hokokuji Temple. I am aware that Kamakura is home for shrines and temples, but  I was surprised to know that there are more to see. They are similar but majestic in their own way. Each has its own story to tell. 

Buddhism 

a religion that originally comes from South Asia, and teaches that personal spiritual improvement will lead to escape from human suffering  *Cambridge

1. Engakuji Temple

 Engakuji is a walking distance from the train station. One of the great Zen Temples of Kamakura. No wonder why its a  popular spot for autumn colors. Maple trees fill the entrance of the temple. Given it was Sunday, it's surprising that it was not that crowded when we got there.

Who wouldn't fall in love with this view? They change color starting from late November to the beginning of December. There is an entrance fee of ￥300 for adult and ￥100 for child.

The first view from the entrance is this main gate called Sanmon. You can tell it has been there for many centuries because it looks pretty old. 

There are many Buddha images and statues where you can pray and give offerings to thank Buddha and for good luck. It doesn't matter how much. 

There is a large bell in this area but I didn't get to see it because I'm not wearing  comfortable shoes. If you are going to visit, make sure to check the weather and wear appropriate gear. 

2. Kenchoji Temple

 Kenchoji is the oldest and greatest zen temple of Kamakura. I did a little hike here. It's hard to say no to its beauty. It's peaceful and relaxing. Every corner is pleasing to look at.

The entrance fee is a bit higher, but this place offers a more scenic view. They have an observation deck wherein you can see Mt. Fuji if you get lucky. It depends on the weather. They are also famous for Tenen hiking trail. It will be best to visit during autumn and spring when the temperature is not too hot or too cold. The trees are in full bloom too. 

This is Chozuya. It is used to purify yourself before entering the temple or shrine by washing hands. I did try it for the experience, and I felt cleaned. Just kidding! 

I got blisters from hiking this spot, but Mount Fuji didn't show up. Great! Ha! It was tiring but fun. Don't forget to eat beforehand because you will need a lot of energy to explore the whole place. 

Keep in mind that this is not a local park. It's a must to be respectful at all times. Always walk on the left, and I think eating is not allowed because I didn't see any food stall inside. 

3. Hachimangu Shrine

The most important shrine of Kamakura. Events are held here throughout the year. It is crowded but not noisy. There used to be an old giant Ginko tree on the side of the stairway, but it was taken down due to a storm. Its trunk is still displayed. Sorry, I forgot to take a picture. But a small tree is growing from its root. Do you see it? It's about to turn golden.

I felt excited to witness a Japanese traditional wedding. It gave me chills! It was like one of the scenes on TV. I have learned that this kind of ceremony is quite expensive. Maybe they are both from a well off family. I'm glad that it is open to the public and anybody can take pictures. 

Sake anyone? These are offers from rituals and events that happened in the shrine. The difference between these two sacred places is that the shrine has a Torii gate, while the temple has a Sanmon gate, which is bigger. There are also Buddhist images and statues in temples.

And that ends my day in Kamakura. After this tour, I can really say that this city is one of the most beautiful that I have been to. Aside from shrines and temples, there are also shopping centers, walking streets, and plenty of restaurants.  A modern city with a traditional ambiance. If you will visit Tokyo in the future, make time to see Kamakura. It's worth it. :)

“As you walk and eat and travel, be where you are. Otherwise you will miss most of your life.” -Buddha

Affordable Drugstore Beauty Products in Japan

Since I came here last month, I have been searching for a beauty product that I could use during my stay. These items that I will be sharing may not be all new to some of you because beauty junkies have been raving about it already. They do the job well but budget-friendly for someone like me. I am satisfied with the effects on my skin, and I'm planning to buy a stock when I come home. 

I was once a fanatic of beauty blogs, that whenever someone says, try this product, it's number one in Cosme ranking. I will look for it, and If I can afford it, I will buy one right away. In the end, I realized that not all top-selling products are the best. Just because it worked on their skin, it doesn't mean it will work for you too.

 I wish for a bit of Japanese glow before I leave, but I promise myself that I will be wiser and careful in choosing what to try. Here are some of the best-selling drugstore beauty products under ¥1000 (₱500) . Note that prices below include taxes.

1. FACIAL WASH  

BRAND : Shiseido

USAGE  : It cleanses your skin without drying. It has a thick texture, just make a whip then massage onto your face. No sting or itchiness whenever I use this. I have an acne-prone skin but I didn't notice any breakout or patches since I started using this. It can be found everywhere. No wonder why it's extremely popular among Japanese women, it's good quality but affordable cleanser.

There are 3 variants to choose from:

blue - Perfect Whip Cleansing Foam

pink - Perfect Whip Collagen

white - Perfect White Clay

PRICE    : ¥382 

2. DAILY MOISTURIZING MASK

BRAND : Lululun

USAGE  : This mask is made for daily use. It moisturizes and it's suitable for all skin types. Available in weekly and monthly packages. I use this directly right after cleansing my face. I opted to use this one because of the reviews that I read online.

Comes in different variants
Blue - for deep moisturizing
Pink - for hydrating
White - for whitening

PRICE    : ¥495 for  7days

3. FACE AND BODY CLEANSER

BRAND : Cow (Aokabako)

USAGE  : This soap has been in the market for a long time. It is a blend of milk and milk fat as its main ingredients. It comes in two colors. This blue (Aokabako) smells like jasmine and the red (Akabako), which is the original formula, has a soft rose scent and creamier, ideal for the face, but I know they can be used both for face and body. 
  

PRICE    : ¥173 for 3pcs

4. EYE DROP

BRAND : Rohto 

USAGE  : This eye drop brings instant cooling comfort to irritated eyes due to late nights, eye strain, environmental conditions, pollen, dust and inadequate tear production. I heard many celebrities and bloggers are hyping this product. I gave it a try because I work online and my eyes hurt most of the time. I suggest to apply before putting on your make up. I was teary when I first used it because it was kinda minty. It went away after a while. 

PRICE    : ¥259

5. MEDICATED BABY PRESSED POWDER

BRAND : Shiseido

USAGE  : It is specially made for the babies who has a very sensitive skin and allergic of using regular baby powder. It prevents pimples, acne breakouts and absorbs excess oil from the skin.No added fragrance and coloring.Your skin stays matte and has a translucent finish after applying.  Formulated for all types of skin. Heart E is using this, you should have one too :)

PRICE    : ¥268


So far, these are my new favorites. I will add more when I get to try other beauty products. If you have any suggestions or recommendations, please comment below. :)

Japan Tourist Visa | With or Without Guarantor

If you are planning to visit Japan, here are the documents needed when applying for a tourist visa. It's not as difficult as it may seem. They have been more relaxed for years. You can get a minimum of 15days and a maximum of 90days visa. 

- All documents must be original unless otherwise stated.

Requirements: 

1. Philippine Passport 

- passport must be valid for 6 months prior to your intended visit.  Signed and have at least two blank visa pages. 

2. Visa Application Form
- download and print application form in A4 size. Fill it out completely, put N/A if not applicable. The cleaner the better.  It's important that the details here match your itinerary.

3. Photo

- picture should be in  4.5cm x 4.5cm, with white background. Write your name and birthday at the back. It must be recent too.

4. Birth Certificate 

- birth certificate should be issued by the PSA within a year. If your birth certificate is unreadable, request a copy from the Local Civil Registrar. You will have to submit both.

- If your birth certificate is late registered, you may submit a baptismal certificate and school record (Form 137) and School Yearbook (if possible).

- If you have no record in PSA, submit a “Certificate of Non-Record” together with a birth certificate from the Local Civil Registrar.

5. Marriage Certificate (if the applicant is married)

6. Daily Schedule in Japan (TAIZAI YOTEIHYO ) or your itinerary

- for your itinerary, its best to choose tourist spots which are free or not too expensive if you don't have much money in the bank.

7. Bank Certificate
- bank certificate is valid for 3 months from the date of issue. The older the account, the better. I've heard visa denial cases because their bank account is new. It kinda looks suspicious. They say 50000 is enough for 5days.

8. Income Tax Return 
- latest and clear copy of your ITR (form 2316). If you don't have one, make an explanation letter. This is a common problem for a freelance worker or self-employed like me.. 

- If someone will shoulder part or all of your expenses, you will have to submit the following. 

a. Guarantee Letter from your guarantor

b. Proof of relationship between applicant and guarantor (e.g. Birth Certificates etc.)

c. Bank Certificate (original) and Income Tax Return (ITR Form 2316) (clear Photocopy) of Guarantor

- If you have any question, please visit the Japanese Embassy website.  


Certificate of Employment

- COE is not really a requirement but if you don't have an ITR, It might help.
- I heard government workers need to provide leave of absence.

Submit your requirements to accredited agency. 

I highly recommend Universal Holidays Inc. They are located outside Dusit Thani Hotel Makati. Their service fee is a bit higher than others but I have chosen them because I feel secure that my visa will be approved. They thoroughly check your papers and you can reach them thru their Facebook page any time.

I used to submit from the other agency, but I had to look for another when they declined my sister's application because her birth certificate is late registered. We can't provide additional docs since she was born and studied in the province. Fortunately, UHI accepted her application and advised us to submit an explanation letter instead. 

-Their regular handling fee is 1200 but they have a promo most of the time. 2500 if visiting relatives. Processing may take from 2 to 7days. 

-You may also opt to have your passport delivered to you via 2go. Fee is about 180/pax

How to get there from Olongapo

Pasay bound victory liner bus no longer drop passengers in front of Ayala center. You will have to take a taxi to Dusit Thani from Pasay. Fare cost is about 100 pesos. A tip from the taxi driver, outside the terminal, walk past the gas station then cross the pedestrian overpass. It will be easier to get a taxi in front of Jollibee and fare will be lower. 

The Waiting Game

Waiting for the result can be nerve-wracking but keep in mind that if you submitted all the documents needed, you have nothing to worry. Just relax. 

Ganbatte kudasai!