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!

Kanagawa, Japan | What To Do and Places To Visit

Japan will always be special to me. At some point of my life, It has been my home away from home. I have experienced many firsts in this land of the rising sun. Memories that I will forever cherish.  It may not be a typical japan living because I stayed in an American base but its still a fact that I lived there. Everything was all new to me. The environment, the language, the people, and of course the food.


I've stayed mainly in Kanagawa Prefecture. I will be sharing you some of the places I have been during my stay. I will highlight the most popular side trip destinations from Tokyo. The Yokohama, Kamakura, and Hakone.

 Yokohama 

The capital of Kanagawa Prefecture.  The second largest city in Japan by population . Minato Mirai is known as the central business of Yokohama. In here, you will find the most interesting spots that the city has to offer. The bay area, observation deck, skyscrapers as well as traditional buildings maintained up to this day.

1. Cosmo World

 This amusement park is famous for its Cosmo Clock 21. It used to be the tallest Ferris wheel in the world (1989 -1992). Its charges 800 yen per person and with a capacity of 480. There are rides and games for all ages.

I didn't get to ride the giant Ferris because the line is way too long. 

Cup Noodles Museum

 Learn about the makings of the famous cup noodles. Opens from 10am to 6pm. Adult admission fee is 500 yen while high school and below are free of charge. 

Pikachu Outbreak

Usually happens in the month of August. Watch the amazing parade of a massive number of Pikachu. A free event available day and night. 

2. Red Brick Warehouse

A wide cultural shopping center in Yokohama. I have seen some souvenir shops, traditional stuff, jewelry store, and a food court.  Outside the building is an open space for you to walk, roam around, take pictures and enjoy the view of the Yokohama bay. 

Art Rink in Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse 

Experience a colorful winter in Yokohama, an annual event that started in 2005. A collaboration between art and ice skating performed by various artist. 


Admission Fee
Adult - 700 yen
children - 500 yen
Attendance fee - 200 yen
[Shoe rental fee -  500 yen

Art Rink

3. Chinatown

The largest Chinatown in the country. A perfect sightseeing spot for some Chinese vibe. Like others, you will see temples, traditional gates, and a variety of Chinese Cuisine. I have been following their Facebook page, and I know they celebrate festivals in this area too. 

4.  Hakkeijima Sea Paradise

An aquatic, themed, leisure park conveniently located in the metropolitan area. It's not too crowded when we went there. I have seen a polar bear, seal, penguins, and other sea creatures from their huge aquarium. They have rides like other amusement park. The food court has many choices too, you can enjoy a nice view while eating. Ticket price is about 5000 yen for adults.

Aqua Resorts

a view near the entrance of the park

Kamakura

Located in South of Tokyo. Due to increasing number of tourist, they passed a law asking visitors not to eat while walking in crowded places. Japanese are known for their cleanliness. Tourists must respect their request. It's pretty easy to do.

1. Great Buddha of Kamakura  (Daibutsu) 

One of the most famous icons of Japan. This statue is located in Kotoku-in Temple. There are many tourists and devotees visiting every now and then. You will have to pay an admission fee of 200 yen.  

                                        

  

2. Hokokuji Bamboo Garden Kamakura 

The grove with 2000 bamboos in the backyard of Hokokuji Temple. It is best to visit early in the morning to avoid the crowd. Admission fee is about 300 yen.

                             

Slam Dunk

If you are an anime fan and  happen to be in the area, you may go to Kamakurakokomae station. The railroad crossing is famous for the scene in the the opening of Slamdunk.  A manga series who's main character is Hanamichi Sakuragi. 

Credits to Crunchyroll

Hakone

A town in west of Tokyo. They are famous for onsen or hot springs. I have seen a lot while on our way up the valley. I find it a bit scary at first because the roads are steep. Hakone is a mountainous area. 

1. Owakudani Black Eggs 

The great boiling valley is a result of the explosion of  Hakone volcano.  Aside from the scenic view, this is also popular for the eggs boiled naturally in the hot spring ponds of Owakudani. They say eating black egg adds seven years to your life. I've asked my students about that, but they seem to be clueless about it. 

                             

2. Hakone Ropeway 

 An ideal outdoor activity for the whole family. From above, you will see the view of the valley and if you are lucky, you can also enjoy the majestic Mt. Fuji. The ride ranges from 1400 yen - 2500 yen round trip. 

Cable car

Miura 

I added this place because I remember we went here for the early cherry blossoms sight seeing. Cherry trees usually blooms from March to May, but this picture was taken in February. It was beautiful view that even locals are excited every year.

Yokosuka

A city where an American base is located, the Yokosuka Naval Base. According to wiki, it's population is decreasing. Foreign citizens in Yokosuka are mainly Filipinos, Koreans, Chinese,and Americans. I was lucky to experience winter, spring, summer and fall. This is where I had my first snow. 

For someone who grew up in a tropical country. Seeing a white wonderland was a dream. 

1. Kurihama Flower Park

There's no entrance fee but if you want to ride on their flower train, you will have to pay about 300 yen per person for one way.  I would say the best time to visit is during spring or autumn, so the weather will not be too hot. 

Flower Park 

2. Godzilla Slides

After your flower park tour, you must check out their adventure land. Children will surely enjoy their slides. I saw families having a picnic while enjoying the view of the giant Godzilla on the side. It's best to bring some snack. There are vendors in the park, but the options are limited. 

3. Mikasa Battleship

A walking distance from Yokosuka naval base. A relaxing place for a walk and watch the water fountain show. The park is free, but if you want to see their historical battleship, there will be a small fee. 

At the deck of the Mikasa Battleship

4. Yokosuka Friendship day

They have this Japanese and American  Friendship day every year. I really enjoy this event because I was able to know more about Japan. It's amazing to see a deep bond between the two countries.   

Japanese Calligraphy/ Shuji

My first Kimono experience

One of the reasons why I enjoy teaching Japanese is that I love their country. The culture rich experience and countless picturesque spots to visit. I have seen a few, and I would love to come back for more. 

The best education I have ever received was through travel. – Lisa Ling.