a day in osaka

photos by Lisa from Paint with Stars

These are a few photos from a short trip to Osaka from a few days ago. It was for work, but Lisa and I got to enjoy some beautiful views of the city life there. The river running through Namba is spectacularly beautiful.

Thank you so much for all of the birthday wishes - you guys are awesome!! 

Love,

Samantha Mariko

osaka/kyoto/nara

A potpourri of photos from my trip to Osaka, Kyoto, and Nara.

Some of my relatives live in Osaka, so it was really nice to see them after so many years.

I was so excited to go sight-seeing in Kyoto and Nara, but unfortunately, it rained when I went to the Kinkakuji (Temple of the Golden Pavilion ) in Kyoto. Despite that, I was able to enjoy its beauty and splendor. In Nara, I absolutely could not miss seeing the Todaiji, or the Eastern Great Temple. The Great Buddha inside was so impressive, it's kind of hard not to look up at it in awe. Also, being able to see the Nara deer up close was a plus. Aren't they cute? 

I took many of these pictures as I was walking so they may be blurry, but I hope you enjoy them :) Until next time!

Love,

Samantha Mariko

a treat

Shibuya day 2.

Today,  I was able to explore other parts of the city with a friend.

More good food, more shopping. The cake is from a fancy cafe called comme ca. Doesn't it remind you of gelato? We also randomly passed by Opening Ceremony and there was a live radio broadcast called `Go! Hunt My Style!' featuring famous Japanese artists -Anna Tsuchiya, Mademoiselle Yulia, and VERBAL from m-flo. I'm a huge m-flo fan, so this was a treat! Photography and video-taping wasn't allowed though, so sorry for not being able to post pictures!

Tomorrow, I'll be heading over to Osaka. Gotta get a good night's rest. Sweet dreams everyone!

Love,

Samantha Mariko