Just another world from Ploy's view
Planning a road trip through Japan is an absolute dream—until you hit the neon-lit, bustling streets of Tokyo. If you’ve ever tried to park in a high-profile district like Shinjuku, you know the struggle is real. During my recent trip, I quickly learned that while rural Japan is a breeze for drivers, Tokyo parking fees …
My first international trip of 2026 to Japan has just come to an end, and my heart is overflowing with fond experiences. While this journey centered around snowboarding in Nagano’s beloved Hakuba Village, one particular visit became the undisputed highlight: dining at ao LAKESIDE CAFE. If you are heading to Nagano, you’ll want to bookmark …
When planning a trip to Korea, visiting a Hanok Village is a top recommendation on every travel website. And rightly so, as these villages offer a glimpse into the captivating world of Korean traditional homes and culture. While Bukchon Hanok Village in Seoul is undoubtedly popular and attracts hordes of tourists due to its rich …
Seokchon Lake Park is undisputed as one of the top cherry blossom viewing spots in Seoul. However, its vastness—which is usually its greatest strength—can feel a bit overwhelming when you’re trying to find that “perfect” spot. With miles of trails and hidden corners, it’s easy to find yourself walking aimlessly. In this guide, I’m sharing …
I was scrolling through the photo library on my phone the other night when a specific scene I captured during a road trip to Busan stopped my finger mid-swipe. It was a photo of a window frame displaying a stunning vista of a deep blue ocean, taken at a cafe in the Huinnyeoul Culture Village. …
Three years ago, I visited the now-famous Café Pokpo in Seoul’s Seodaemun-gu during a lush, green summer. I thought I’d seen its charm at its peak. I was wrong. This winter, I returned with one mission: to see the Hongjecheon Waterfall transform into a frozen spectacle. What I found wasn’t just a beautiful scene—it was …
Tucked away in Mangwon-dong, Mapo-gu, there’s a street that feels like it was lifted from a springtime fairytale. Huiujeong-ro (희우정로) is not yet overrun by Instagram crowds or tour buses. It’s a local secret, a quiet haven where cherry blossoms stretch gracefully over a sloping, scenic road—a hidden gem in a city known for its …
If you think you know Seoul’s cafe culture, think again. While the city has always been a haven for the ‘Instagram-worthy,’ the scene in 2026 has evolved into something much deeper. It’s no longer just about the perfect shot; it’s about the perfect vibe. Today, Seoul’s coffee shops are masterclasses in ‘Spatial Storytelling.’ You’ll find …
When most people think of Noryangjin Station, their minds immediately drift to the briny scent of the famous Fisheries Wholesale Market or the sight of students hustling between cram schools. It’s a place known for grit, great seafood, and hard work—not necessarily “romance.” But if you step away from the market and head toward the …
Gwangjang Market (광장시장) is a bustling hub of commerce in Seoul, South Korea. The market has been around since 1905, and it’s home to over 5,000 vendors, making it one of the oldest and largest traditional markets in the country. The market is famous for its textiles, traditional Korean goods, and most importantly, its street …