Just Another Wanderer

Monday, February 9, 2015

Baguio Revisited (2013)

Last 2013, we went to Baguio for the second straight year. I am writing this post since we were not able to pass by Baguio last 2014. Hopefully, we get to return again and keep visiting on a yearly basis. New traditions so to speak for our family.

Our Lady of Manaoag

After spending time in Manaoag for prayer and devotion, we reached Baguio just in time for dinner. We first checked-in at The Manor located in Camp John Hay. The rooms were very cozy and has a family vibe to it.

The Manor at Camp John Hay

For dinner, we wanted to try Forest House Bistro & Cafe.

Forest House

Our table was located at the veranda. The cool weather was just right during the time we visited Baguio. Food was just okay.

Forest House

After dinner, we were lucky enough to get a tour of their bed & breakfast rooms. Another place to consider when we return to Baguio.

Bed & Breakfast at Forest House

We then headed back to Camp John Hay. Before going to bed, we had some hot chocolate and played a bit of board games. Family bonding time!

View from our room

During the next morning, I cannot wait to load up on the breakfast buffet at The Manor. I've been hearing good reviews about their breakfast. It certainly did not disappoint!

Breakfast at The Manor

After breakfast, we did an early check-out since we stayed here for just one night.

The Manor

We then headed to Mines View Park to enjoy the view and some fresh air. While you're there, don't forget to visit nearby Good Shepherd Convent. This is where you get most (if not all) your Baguio goodies to bring home.

Strawberry taho

Also try the strawberry taho that's only available here in Baguio. You should easily find someone who sells them around Mines View Park.

Casa Vallejo

For lunch, we went to Hill Station at Casa Vallejo - an establishment that's been here for so long.

Hill Station at Casa Vallejo

Don't forget to check the Mt. Cloud bookshop as well.

Mt. Cloud bookshop

Well, that's it for my Baguio trip! We had to return to Manila already. A quick but memorable family bonding trip.

- Just Another Wanderer

Sunday, February 8, 2015

Osaka, Japan (Day 7 & 8: Ichiran Ramen, Yakiniku Icho)

After some good drinks with great company last night, I woke up in the afternoon already. This was our last full day in Osaka but I just couldn't muster myself for a final day push. Instead, I decided to slow the pace today.

Ichiran Ramen in Umeda

For lunch, I had to try out some ramen before we left Japan. We decided to try Ichiran Ramen located in Umeda district. They have 3 branches in total around Osaka.

Pick your ramen preference

While waiting to be assigned a spot, you can already get your side orders (through a stub) from the vending machine. Likewise, there's a form containing your ramen preference.

Ichiran Ramen

When it was finally our turn, each one of us was assigned to one of these cubicles. Someone from the booth will get your order stub and form. Wait a few minutes and they will serve your order. You barely even interact with the restaurant staff at this place. It was my first time to experience something like this.

Ichiran Ramen

As for the ramen, it's probably one of my favorites in terms of taste and overall experience. You should also order their cold tofu which can be eaten before or after your ramen.

Ichiran Ramen

The rest of the afternoon was allocated for last minute shopping. We spent most of our time in the supermarket.

Yaikiniku Icho

For dinner, we wanted to make sure we ended our trip on a high note. We decided to have dinner at Yakiniku Icho located in Umeda.

Yakiniku Icho

Just look at the marbling...

Yakiniku Icho

Our last supper in Japan did not disappoint!

As the sun rises the next morning, I cannot believe that this trip is coming to an end. I guess it's just a matter of time when I return to this wonderful country.

Thank you Japan! ありがとうございます!

- Just Another Wanderer

Saturday, February 7, 2015

Osaka, Japan (Day 6: Shitennoji Temple, Osaka Castle, Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan and more)

Just like Day 4, today is another day of guided touring but in Osaka. Our first stop was Shitennoji Temple. It is said that this is the oldest Buddhist temple in Japan built around 593.

Shitennoji Temple

We were only able to enter the outer temple grounds. Apparently, another place to visit is the Gokuraku-jodo Garden which is located inside the grounds. I only discovered this inner temple area as I'm writing this post.

Entering the Osaka Castle grounds

From Shitennoji Temple, we went to our last historical stop - the Osaka Castle. Walking towards the Osaka Castle was a very nice experience. You will pass by a moat to enter the grounds. On the opposite side, you can enjoy the scenery of lush gardens.

Spring is in the air

Once you enter the complex, you can already see the castle from afar. I was excited every step we walked closer to it.

Osaka Castle

Make your way inside the castle and get to the top floor. From there, you can view the rest of Osaka.

Osaka Castle

View from the top

Token of my visit

Lunch was already nearing so we had to go already.

Osaka Castle

For our lunch, we headed to the port area. We had buffet lunch in one of the buildings there. Food was just right but the view was killer!

Port area in Osaka

During the afternoon, we went to Umeda Sky Building. This officially marks the last stop of our guided tour.

Umeda Sky Building

We went straight to the Floating Garden located 173 meters above. It was so cold when we reached the open area.

View from the Floating Garden

They even have love locks on the top floor.

Love locks

Another souvenir token for me!

Token of my visit

Though our guided trip has already ended, our driver was nice enough to drop us to Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan. Only 4 of us went out of our group of 15. If there are only two things I can do on a trip, it would be temple touring and aquariums.

Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan

The place is huge spanning several floors. The variety of marine animals alone is worth the visit. The highlight of the visit however, is the large tank that features an actual whale shark. I believe this was my very first time to see one in real life.

Whale shark

I also enjoyed their jellyfish tanks.

Jellyfish

There's also a semi-open area where you can see seals and other marine animals. They can see you as well!

Seal

After our aquarium tour, we headed back to Umeda for dinner. I think I've eaten tempura at least once a day during this trip.

Dinner time

The young ones decided to head out after dinner. We found an area with drinking places about 15-20 minutes away from our hotel. Our first stop was drinks at a classic whiskey bar.