Solo Adventure: Joining the World Heritage Malacca Day Tour from Kuala Lumpur via Klook

About a 2-hour Drive from Kuala Lumpur: Malacca, a UNESCO World Heritage Site

Malacca, a UNESCO World Heritage Site located about a 2-hour drive from Kuala Lumpur, holds a rich history. After thriving as the Malacca Sultanate in trade, it was later ruled by the Portuguese, Dutch, and British.

One thing I noticed while in Kuala Lumpur, be it the mosques or train stations, is that Malaysia doesn't seem to face the same kind of widespread building damage from earthquakes as Japan does. Therefore, many old buildings remain standing, contributing to Malacca's unique blend of Western and Asian architectural styles. As someone not well-versed in world history, I found the city's historical ambiance quite fascinating.

While it's possible to travel to Malacca independently by long-distance bus, my language school had organized a Malacca tour during August, a month with high student numbers. However, wanting to learn more about the history and considering the convenience of transportation, I decided to join a local tour.

I booked the local tour through Klook, a platform that has been a lifesaver for travelers. They offer the convenience of booking in Japanese and often run discount campaigns for Japanese credit card users – which I was fortunate to catch.

Klook Travel

Choosing Fun, Discovering Fun, What Klook Can Do. Add fun to your travels with activities and experiences available on Klook!

By the way, I've also written about using Klook tickets to visit the KLCC Aquarium, so if you plan on exploring the Kuala Lumpur area, that might be worth checking out.

The Journey to Malacca

The tour's morning assembly time depends on factors like road conditions, and you receive this information from the tour company or guide on the night before. I saw a comment in a review saying, "I didn't know until the last minute, which made me anxious." I understand the concern, as in Japan, such information is typically provided by the evening. However, I believe predicting the traffic in Kuala Lumpur, especially during the morning or evening rush, would require a high level of expertise, so I don't blame them for taking their time.

In the case of two or more participants, the tour bus usually picks you up from your hotel. However, as a solo traveler, I had to gather at Berjaya Times Square, which is directly connected to Imbi Station, at 8:00 AM.

Visually, tourists from Japan, China, and Korea may blend in with the locals, so it might take some courage to strike up a conversation (or you may even be mistaken for a local – I was). However, since people of non-Asian descent waiting at the gathering point are likely part of the same tour, it provides a sense of security.

The contact the night before even included the car's registration number, so when the tour bus arrived at the scheduled time, I boarded without any issues. Solo travelers made friends quickly and shared seats if there were empty ones.

The Malacca Tour

En route to Malacca, our guide provided clear and easy-to-understand explanations of Malacca's history, as well as Malaysia's history and culture. All explanations were in English, but the guide ensured to use very basic English. Moreover, he mentioned at the start, "Today, all of you on this tour are friends, so if you're unsure about anything, ask someone else," creating a comfortable atmosphere that helps anyone feel at ease.

Upon arrival in Malacca, we made a brief stop to view a church from the outside. Then, we walked along the river to reach the famous Dutch Square. The city's riverside buildings feature wall art, and the guide explains each one. He also provides advice on good photo spots, like, "This wall art looks better from the other side of the river," which was very helpful.

Participants of all ages, both men and women, walked to St. Paul's Hill to visit St. Paul's Hill Church. Here, you'll find the famous statue of St. Francis Xavier, known to many Japanese as a symbol of a long journey from Europe to Japan during ancient times.

Personally, I had listed visiting this spot on my "Things to Do in Malaysia" list even before arriving, so I was somewhat moved. It made me think, "I traveled a long way from Europe to Japan from the perspective of Europeans."

Nyonya Cuisine and Free Time

I shared a table with other solo travelers for lunch. I didn't take photos, but we had Nyonya cuisine, a Malacca specialty. I couldn't eat too much as I was a bit conscious of my surroundings, but this would serve as a prelude to the free time where I could buy and eat whatever I liked.

In the afternoon, we started at Jonker Street, adorned with rabbit-themed decorations for the Year of the Rabbit. Those interested had the option to join the guide for visits to various places like a Chinese temple or mosque within Jonker Street before the free shopping time.

During the free time, I used it as an opportunity to visit Stadthuys and the Literature Museum.

At Stadthuys, you can find displays related to Malaysia and Malacca's history, including exhibits on Japan's occupation period. These exhibits provide a different perspective on Japanese history, and since they're based on locally available materials, it was quite interesting.

As for the Literature Museum, it was intriguing but a bit challenging to understand without knowledge of Malay. Much of the content relies on oral traditions. However, I hadn't heard much about literature in Malaysia, so this visit gave me insight into what kinds of literature exist here.

One notable difference was that unlike other facilities, you had to remove your shoes at the entrance, and the air conditioning was superb. When I visited, it was almost empty, and the entrance featured a somewhat eerie-looking puppet reading a book. So, I'd recommend going with someone if you can, as the place can be quite quiet and slightly spooky.

The Benefits of Joining the Tour

As the free time ended, we began our journey back to Kuala Lumpur. While I was cautious with my valuables, I felt comfortable napping on the bus.

Kuala Lumpur can get congested in the late afternoon, so I was prepared for possible delays. However, we returned almost on time, which I consider a success.

Joining this tour allowed me to explore areas that would be less accessible for solo travelers who don't drive, and I got to learn about the history, making it an excellent day trip.

Malacca offers a rich experience with its historical heritage and ample shopping opportunities, making it a great value tourist destination. Whether you use this tour as a reconnaissance trip for a more in-depth solo adventure or simply want to enjoy a cost-effective day trip, I highly recommend considering a tour like this.

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Is Solo Travel Not Recommended? Discover 'Grab,' the Essential Ride-Hailing App in Southeast Asia

Ride-Hailing App "Grab"

Before my trip to Malaysia, I received strong advice from an older acquaintance: "Avoid taking taxis as much as possible." This advice was due to the need for haggling over fares, the potential for being overcharged as a tourist, and concerns about being taken to unfamiliar or unsafe places, especially since I'm a woman.

Certainly, even travel guides like "Lonely Planet" suggest opting for fixed-rate tickets if you're taking an airport taxi.

Now, there's an app that can alleviate these concerns to a certain extent and is likely well-known to those who have traveled in Southeast Asia – the handy app called "Grab."

Based in Singapore, Grab is a company similar to Uber in Japan, offering various services such as taxi rides (driven by individual drivers), food delivery, and loyalty cards for partner supermarkets.

According to their website, Grab operates in Malaysia, Cambodia, Indonesia, Myanmar, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, and Vietnam. However, there may be areas within these countries where Grab isn't available, so it's essential to check.

Using Grab (Taxi Booking)

When using Grab for taxi booking, you'll be matched with a registered driver (usually individual drivers). Here's a simple guide on how to use it:

1. Select "Car" from the home screen.
2. Choose your current location (or where you want to be picked up) and your destination. You can either drop a pin on the map or search for your destination by name.
3. Select your preferred type of vehicle. If you have no particular preference, you can choose "Just Grab," and the closest available vehicle at a reasonable price will be assigned to you. The estimated fare will be displayed, so you'll know the cost upfront.
4. Once you've requested a ride, the driver's name, vehicle type, and license plate number will be shown. As the vehicle approaches, you can track its location on the map displayed on your smartphone screen, making it easy to locate.
5. If the driver needs to make minor adjustments, such as picking you up slightly away from the designated point due to traffic or road conditions, they might send you a message. Follow their instructions accordingly. Upon entering the vehicle, the driver may confirm your name and destination. A simple "OK" or "YES" will suffice.
6. Enjoy the ride to your destination. If you've registered a credit card, the fare will be automatically charged. Please note that additional charges may apply for toll roads if used during the trip.

Most likely, Japanese travelers will use Grab with English settings, but don't worry; the app mostly relies on visual icons, making it user-friendly.

Advantages of Grab

The main advantages of using Grab are knowing the fare in advance, eliminating the need for price negotiations, and the safety provided by location tracking.

While regular taxis may leave you helpless in case of trouble, Grab allows your whereabouts to be tracked through the app, adding an extra layer of safety.

Although it's impossible to guarantee that all Grab drivers have good intentions, Grab generally provides a more secure feeling than regular taxis.

Disadvantages of Using Grab for Solo Travelers

Grab is incredibly useful for solo travelers, especially when returning to your accommodation at night.

However, it may not always be the best option for all solo travel purposes. This is because Malaysia, for instance, has an affordable train system, which is usually cheaper than using Grab for travel to most tourist destinations.

Additionally, Grab fares can increase during rainy weather, and Kuala Lumpur is known for its heavy traffic during certain hours. In such cases (although you may not always know when to expect it), waiting for a train might be a more efficient choice.

From conversations with friends at language school, I've learned that Grab is often used when traveling with friends to share the costs, which can be quite economical.

As someone who preferred solo activities and was good at managing my own pace even in Japan, I might be more inclined to use trains. However, there are times, like when I recently traveled from Batu Caves to Zoo Negara, when Grab seemed more efficient than the train. So, it's worth considering Grab for specific situations during solo travel.

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Exploring Islam at the National Mosque and Islamic Arts Museum in Malaysia

The National Mosque and Islamic Arts Museum

Malaysia is home to a significant Malay Muslim population, with mosques dotting the cityscape. These mosques broadcast loud prayers through microphones during prayer times, which some people might find quite loud. It's not uncommon to come across comments in reviews of Malaysian hotels and Airbnbs complaining about the loud calls to prayer disrupting sleep.

In my case, I live near a mosque at my student dormitory, and while the calls to prayer do resonate, they aren't deafening. Living in an Islamic country was one of the reasons I chose to study in Malaysia, and the daily calls to prayer don't bother me to the extent some may think.

Now, in the heart of Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, you can find the National Mosque and the Islamic Arts Museum.

During my recent visit, I decided to explore both places, mainly because they are close to each other. Additionally, upon arrival, I realized that I had just missed the visiting hours for the mosque, so I needed to spend some time.

Islamic Arts Museum Malaysia (IAMM)

 

Exhibition and Museum Shop (Daily)
9:30 AM – 6:00 PM
Last entry at 5:30 PM

Ticket Prices (as per the website, subject to change)
Adults: RM20
Students: RM10
Senior citizens (Malaysian): RM10
Senior citizens (non-Malaysian): RM20
Children under 6: Free

Once you purchase your ticket at the entrance, you'll navigate the museum using elevators. The galleries showcase intricately decorated Qurans, clothing, and accessories worn by notable figures from various regions, all adorned with calligraphic art.

One fascinating aspect was the inclusion of Islamic artifacts from countries beyond Malaysia and the Middle East, such as China. It provided insights into the spread of Islam to different regions.

The museum itself features beautiful, mosque-like decorative ceilings, which add to its charm.

What caught my interest was the presence of Islamic-related items from countries like China, where Muslim communities reside, apart from Malaysia and Middle Eastern nations. It offered a glimpse into the global reach of Islam.

The National Mosque (Masjid Negara)

Following my museum visit, I headed straight to the National Mosque. At the entrance, there was information on whether tourists were allowed in at that time. I suspect they display announcements about non-prayer times when tourists can enter.

Visiting Hours for Masjid Negara (Subject to Change)
Excluding Fridays:
9:00 AM – 12:00 PM
3:00 PM – 4:00 PM
3:30 PM – 6:30 PM

Fridays Only:
3:00 PM – 4:00 PM
3:30 PM – 6:30 PM

Upon entering, you need to register your details. I filled out a form on a tablet, which the lady at the entrance kindly provided. However, I accidentally wrote "region" instead of "religion" for my religion. I only realized my mistake later – embarrassing!

Subsequently, you proceed to wear a robe and follow the tour route. Reviews I had read beforehand mentioned that these robes could get hot. It's true; it's an extra layer in Malaysia's already hot and humid weather. However, the fabric was smoother than expected, making it bearable.

Naturally, the interior is a religious facility, so there are designated areas for prayers and worshippers. Tourists walk through while being mindful not to disturb those praying. I toured with a sense of respect, considering how I would like to be treated if I were at my own country's religious site.

The mosque's interior provides numerous picturesque spots, and I noticed some influencers capturing images with tripods and selfie sticks. They were considerate and didn't obstruct anyone.

As seen in the photo, despite the designated tour route, there's plenty to explore within this vast mosque. Moreover, from the balcony, I captured stunning views of Kuala Lumpur.

Being easily accessible in the heart of Kuala Lumpur, visiting an actual mosque was a remarkable experience. However, do note that there are limited visiting hours for non-Muslims. So, if you have a tight schedule, I recommend checking the hours before your visit.

Tourist Attractions Related to Islam

In Japan, there aren't many mosques, and opportunities to engage with Islam are relatively scarce. Being able to visit Islamic tourist attractions like the Islamic Arts Museum and the National Mosque, where you can experience Islamic culture, is a unique feature of Malaysia.

A little further away, you'll find the Blue Mosque (Masjid Sultan Salahuddin Abdul Aziz Shah) and the Pink Mosque (Masjid Putra). I'm looking forward to visiting them on weekends in the future.

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I Went to Zoo Negara! Impressions and Highlights

Taking Grab to the Zoo!

After visiting Batu Caves, as I mentioned in my recent blog post, I also went to Zoo Negara, the National Zoo of Malaysia.

It's about a 10-minute ride from Batu Caves using Grab. You can get picked up right near the parking area after coming down the Batu Caves stairs. However, I noticed that the road was quite congested with cars, so I opted to go to the pickup point at the KTM Commuter's Batu Cave station. There were fewer cars, making it easier to identify which one to hop into, and I could wait comfortably inside the air-conditioned car as there was a bit of traffic.

Zoo Negara - The National Zoo

Zoo Negara is located in Selangor, and many people visit it in combination with Batu Caves. However, since it requires transportation, and not everyone who loves animals necessarily goes to Batu Caves, you can choose as per your preferences.

The ticket prices for Zoo Negara differ for foreigners and Malaysians. You can also purchase tickets through Klook, but note that you need to buy them in advance, typically by the day before your visit. Also, if you're in the process of obtaining a student visa, the student rate might not apply, and you'll need to pay the regular adult fee.

Upon entry, they put a paper bracelet on your arm as your ticket. When I was struggling to put it on by myself, one of the security guards kindly assisted me, saying, "Come, let me help you."

Highlights of Zoo Negara

Close Proximity to Animals (Some Are Even Free-Roaming)

Coming from a background of visiting zoos primarily in the Tokyo area, such as Ueno Zoo, Inokashira Park Zoo, and occasionally making a longer trip to Yokohama's Zoorasia, I found that the biggest difference at Zoo Negara was the close proximity between visitors and animals. Even though there were deep moats separating visitors from lions, pumas, and white tigers, and they could only be observed from glass-enclosed viewing areas, other animals could be observed from very close distances.

For instance, this giraffe was leisurely walking right next to us, occasionally reaching heights comparable to the trees to munch on leaves.

As someone who once answered, "I like giraffes," with a response that was difficult to react to during a primary school entrance interview, it was an unmissable giraffe-spotting moment for me.

Also, some of the birds were in an area with a large pond at the heart of the zoo. It appeared to be a picturesque spot, possibly a location for movie shoots.

While the birds have a base on an island, they often stroll near the walkways near the visitors. They are essentially free-roaming. For those who might think that animals are best observed from behind fences, this could be an overly stimulating experience.

Extremely Entertaining Animal Shows

Every day, there are animal shows where animals, from chickens to flamingos and seals, perform. These shows not only feature tricks but also involve games that the audience can enjoy. There are also explanations about each animal. It's a very comprehensive show, and the games involve both children and adults, creating a great sense of excitement. I, as a solo visitor, thoroughly enjoyed it.

What surprised me was that all the MC's lines were conducted in both English and Malay. I've noticed that at tourist destinations, English is often used for guidance. However, I think, in this case, Malay might be more straightforward for kids to understand. This really reminded me that we are in Malaysia. By the way, the English used was quite simple, so even if you're not very confident in English, you can still enjoy the show.

It's advisable to arrive early to secure a good seat, but sometimes, ants can form a queue on seats if someone has spilled snacks there previously. As the crowd increases, the ants can't walk up to the middle of the seats. So, it's recommended to go after the seats are moderately filled or to find a spot near where someone else is sitting.

Meet the Pandas!

Zoo Negara is home to two pandas. If you purchase tickets through Klook, there's an additional fee to enter the panda enclosure. However, if you buy tickets at the entrance on the day of your visit, access to the panda enclosure is included with all tickets. So, it's worth checking them out.

The panda enclosure is an air-conditioned area, providing a bit of an oasis in the sweltering heat of the zoo. During my time in Malaysia, I often noticed Malaysian Chinese locals around, but around the panda enclosure, there seemed to be a predominance of visitors from the mainland (China). It appears that pandas are quite popular among Chinese tourists.

Possible Downsides of Zoo Negara (Maybe)

I love going to zoos, so I was thoroughly satisfied with my visit to Zoo Negara. However, if you're reading this and you're not particularly fond of accompanying your family or friends to the zoo, be aware of one thing: Malaysian zoos are extremely hot!

Because it's super hot, it's essential to take heat-preventive measures. This was where I first encountered the fashion of Muslim women wearing hats over their scarves. The direct sunlight is intense.

The heat doesn't just affect us humans but also the animals, who can seem quite lethargic. Birds that can fly and African animals appear fairly energetic as they roam the grassy plains. However, for other animals, it's common to see them gather in shaded areas and take frequent naps. On the bright side, this means you can observe animals that are stationary from very close distances. Personally, I found it to be a good thing, but if you're expecting to see more active animals, you might be a bit disappointed.

Returning Home with Grab

Zoo Negara has Grab pickup points right at the entrance and exit of the zoo's parking area. It seems that you can't get picked up or dropped off anywhere else.

You can also take the train from nearby stations to get home. However, if you're heading towards Kuala Lumpur, taking a Grab home is more convenient in my opinion (and the fare is roughly around RM17).

This place seems to be popular among families and tourists, and a Malaysian acquaintance told me, "I've never been there." It's tourist-friendly and well-organized, so I recommend stopping by when you're in Kuala Lumpur or visiting Batu Caves.

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Instagram-Worthy: Exploring Batu Caves by KTM Commuter!

A Trip to Batu Caves

On a day off from my language school, I decided to visit Batu Caves, a significant Hindu religious site famous for its colorful stairs and the colossal statue of Lord Murugan, attracting tourists from all over.

I had previously gathered information from my classmates at the language school, and it seemed they had used Grab to get there. However, Grab is more cost-effective when sharing with multiple people, and for a solo trip, taking the train seemed like the economical choice, so I opted for the KTM Commuter.

The KTM Commuter departs from KL Sentral Station. If you're traveling, you might be staying around KL Sentral Station, but the KTM Commuter is also accessible from stations it stops at along the way.

This time, I boarded the train at Bank Negara Station. It's a station where you can transfer by foot from the LRT Bandaraya Station. There's a SOGO department store right in front of the station, which can serve as a landmark. (Unfortunately, SOGO wasn't open that morning, so I'd like to visit next time.)

You can refer to this blog for how to transfer.

To ride the KTM Commuter, you can either buy a ticket at the station (I didn't buy one, but it's probably a token) or use the Malaysian pass called "Touch 'n Go." Since many people head to Batu Caves, there were handwritten signs at the platform directing passengers to Batu Caves.

In reality, there were several tourists, so you can be sure this is the right platform. Moreover, the last stop is "Batu Caves," so you can just ride until the end.

Batu Caves

The KTM Commuter ride takes about 30 minutes. After getting off the train, you simply follow the path. There are street vendors selling souvenirs and bottled water, making it easy to identify.

By the way, I don't think there were toilets immediately around Batu Caves, so I recommend using the restroom at the station before heading there. However, the toilet I used was of the squatting type, so if you prefer Western-style toilets, it's better to use one sooner.

Then, you'll come across the giant statue and the staircase as shown in the photo above! There are 272 steps, and they were colorfully painted like this in 2018.

It's quite steep, as you can see from the photo. Plus, there are monkeys. These monkeys are accustomed to people, but they might try to snatch your belongings... though I didn't feel any danger.

Since it's a religious site, those wearing shorts need to wrap a scarf around their waist. It was RM5 (if I remember correctly) and from reading other blogs, it seems they also collect RM2 during the return. So, to keep costs down, it's better to wear long pants.

Despite initially expecting the staircase to be tiring, I breezed through it!

When you reach the top, the cave looks like this. On the right side, Hindu devotees are offering prayers. I had never encountered Hindu culture while in Japan, but I was drawn to the colorful statues.

Moreover, people making pilgrimages to Batu Caves climb the 272 steps barefoot (there's a separate entrance for pilgrims where they remove their shoes). Some even crawl on their knees as they ascend. It's not something to gawk at, but it was an enlightening cultural experience.

Afterward, if it's lunchtime, you can have a meal at a local cafe on the square. I used Grab to head to the National Zoo of Malaysia.

Is KTM Commuter Slow?

Afterward, when I told the locals that I had taken the KTM Commuter, they said, "It was slow, wasn't it?" It turns out it's the slowest train.

Indeed, the KTM Commuter, with its cool name, is quite slow, stops at many stations on the way to Batu Caves, and I found that a bit surprising as I rode it.

Using Grab is convenient, but it might be interesting to give the KTM Commuter a try and experience its "slowness" for yourself.

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Lost in Malaysia: Getting to the National Museum from KL Sentral [1-2 Hour Adventure]

Visiting the National Museum of Malaysia (Muzium Negara)

I'm such a fan of museums that I once took wedding photos at the Tokyo National Museum. So, this time, I decided to visit the National Museum of Malaysia, Muzium Negara.

The opening hours for the National Museum of Malaysia are:

9:00 AM - 5:00 PM (Every day)
Note: You need to enter by 4:30 PM.

Since I found that the visit would take around 1-2 hours, I planned to meet a friend in the morning and make the museum my afternoon activity.

Getting Lost from KL Sentral Station

According to the official website, you can access the National Museum of Malaysia using the following methods:

Access Methods:
GOKL Bus (Free Red Line)
MRT to Muzium Negara Station
Walking from KL Sentral Station
By car (Taxi, Grab, etc.)

Initially, I intended to use method #2 to get to the museum. However, I made a mistake when trying to take the train at Bukit Bintang. I ended up entering a monorail station even though I needed to take the subway.

But then, I realized there was KL Sentral station nearby after looking it up again on Google Maps. I thought, "If Google says I can get to the museum from KL Sentral, let's trust it," and I boarded the monorail. Upon arriving at the station, I relied on Google Maps to find my way to the museum.

However, the problem was that even though the museum was close to the station, I had no idea how to get there. (In fact, I even got lost inside the NU Sentral shopping mall, which is directly connected to the station.)

Unable to figure it out myself, I asked the doorman at the Hilton Hotel, which is next to the station, for directions. He kindly pointed me in the right direction.

I don't have much confidence in my map-reading abilities, so I was relieved to know that the museum wasn't far. However, my joy was short-lived as the path I was directed to was essentially a road with cars zooming past, much like a highway. Feeling uneasy, I asked another hotel staff member I passed by, but they confirmed that this was the correct route.

With no other choice, I continued walking, and eventually, I found it—the museum! You can get a sense of how narrow the road was from the photo.

After this, I used the Muzium Negara station, right in front of the museum, like an underground passage to reach the museum's side of the road, and I successfully entered the museum.

What's in the Museum?

The National Museum of Malaysia showcases the history of Malaysia, from prehistoric times to the formation of the modern Malaysian nation. The exhibits include detailed explanations in both Malay and English.

Additionally, as this year marked the museum's 60th anniversary and coincided with Malaysia Day on August 31st, they had special exhibitions going on.

One of the highlights for me was the section displaying the traditional clothing and culture of various ethnic groups from different regions of Malaysia. I could get up close to these exhibits, making it particularly fascinating.

Access: Muzium Negara Station is Highly Recommended

For the return journey, I highly recommend using Muzium Negara Station. It's right in front of the museum, making it convenient and easy to access other tourist spots by train.

On this day, I learned about Malaysia's history at the museum and had a bit of an adventure getting there. I enjoy walking, so I walked quite a bit. If I ever made a wrong train transfer, I'd simply walk to the next station. But if that's not your style, using Grab would likely be the most convenient option.

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Hidden Gem: Exploring KLCC Aquaria, Malaysia

Exploring the KLCC Aquarium in the Heart of the City

In Malaysia, particularly in Kuala Lumpur, the country's predominant Islamic culture means that there are no classes or shorter classes on Friday afternoons due to Friday being the Islamic holy day, when Muslims gather for prayers at mosques. Many language schools in Malaysia organize special tours and activities for students during this time.

This week, there was a tour planned for Friday, but since I had my sights set on a place I wanted to visit on my own, I decided to skip the tour. The destination was KLCC Aquaria, conveniently located within walking distance from the Pavilion shopping mall in the heart of Kuala Lumpur.

Aquaria KLCC is situated right by the Petronas Twin Towers, and it's located on the edge of a shopping mall.

KLCC Aquaria Offers Photo Opportunities

When I arrived at KLCC Aquaria, it was a weekday Friday afternoon, so there were hardly any lines to get in. At the entrance, they offer to take commemorative photos. However, when I mentioned, "I'm alone, so I don't need this...," the staff kindly said, "You can go ahead," and I skipped the photo.

These photo opportunities can be purchased later, but if you're not interested, you might be able to skip them, even if you're visiting with family.

What's Inside the Aquarium?

Inside the aquarium, you'll find various marine and river creatures native to Malaysia and its surrounding regions. As you enter, there's an area that looks like a touch pool, although I was informed that it's not actually for touching when a child tried to reach in and was gently cautioned by the staff.

They also had exhibits of scorpions and some Malaysian insects, including some that might make you go, "Eww!"

As you move further in, you'll reach the highlight of the aquarium—the underwater tunnel!

I've been on escalator-type underwater tunnels at places like Yokohama Hakkeijima Sea Paradise, but this one was much longer!

You're not rushed, and you can leisurely ride on the slow-moving walkway while taking in the sights.

Traditional Dance Show at the Aquarium?

After passing through the aquarium's underwater tunnel and viewing the jellyfish section, a souvenir corner, and more, I reached the end.

At this time, there seemed to be a dance show going on just before this area. Dancers in traditional attire were performing in front of one of the aquarium tanks. It was a lively show, but the volume was quite high, making me wonder if it was disturbing the fish in the tanks!

From fish to other marine life to dance shows, the aquarium offered a variety of entertainment.

Discounted Tickets

It's worth noting that ticket prices for the aquarium can vary between Malaysian citizens and foreign tourists. This pricing difference is common in other tourist attractions in Malaysia.

Additionally, you can purchase discounted tickets online through "Klook Travel." They accept payments using a Japanese yen credit card, making it convenient for travelers. This can help you get tickets at a straightforward price.

Concluding the KLCC Aquaria Experience

As mentioned earlier, KLCC Aquaria is conveniently located at the base of the Petronas Twin Towers, so after your visit, you can easily explore the shopping mall.

I took the opportunity to visit Isetan department store for the first time and checked out other shops, which was quite enjoyable. (Although it was a bit disappointing that they didn't have wakame seaweed at Isetan.)

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Arriving Safely at My Study Abroad Destination in Malaysia! The Start of My Study Abroad Journey

Arriving at My Study Abroad Destination in Malaysia!

After a 6-hour and 45-minute flight from Narita Airport, I safely arrived in Malaysia, my study abroad destination.

Due to the scheduling of my language school's enrollment date, I couldn't find a perfect match for my itinerary. However, I've heard that there are flights from Haneda Airport to Kuala Lumpur for those traveling from the Kanto region. This was my first time at Narita Airport since returning from China through a government program, and it felt quite distant.

Narita Airport Comes to Life Around 7:30 AM?

My flight was scheduled for the 10 o'clock hour, so I made sure to arrive at the airport around 7 AM, about three hours in advance. Malaysia Airlines' check-in counters weren't open yet during that time (I think it started around 7:20), so I had to wait for a little while.

Furthermore, it seemed that many of the restaurants serving breakfast opened around 7:30 AM. There were options like sushi and soba, and some places offered breakfast sets.

However, there was a bit of an issue because people who knew the opening times started arriving around 7:30, causing a rush. So, I recommend arriving a bit earlier and going in as soon as the restaurant opens.

Boarding the Malaysia Airlines Flight

I boarded a Malaysia Airlines flight that was also a codeshare with JAL (Japan Airlines). I purchased the ticket through JAL's website. I remember reading on another blog that Malaysia Airlines' in-flight safety video had a shortened version, but I think it was the full version that played (most likely).

Inside the plane, there were announcements in Malay and English, followed by announcements in Japanese from Japanese-speaking cabin crew. These Japanese announcements were mostly summaries of the Malay and English ones. However, after we had taken off for a while, there was a unique Japanese announcement: "You can now see Mount Fuji on your right."

Although there were flights that departed at night and arrived in the morning, my schedule had to align with the language school and company's requirements, so I took a daytime flight. I wasn't very sleepy, so I watched movies, including the Mario movie I had planned to watch here, and before I knew it, we had arrived in Malaysia.

The Beginning of My Study Abroad Journey!

I also plan to write about student visa-related matters later, but at Kuala Lumpur Airport, the staff from the language school welcomed me, helped with immigration, and then provided transportation to the student dormitory in Kuala Lumpur.

During this weekend, with the help of local acquaintances introduced to me by others, I purchased daily necessities and explored the city. I think it's a great city with wonderful people and surroundings.

I'm looking forward to giving it my all for the next year!

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Exploring the Classic Kamakura & Enoshima Route on a Day Trip with a Chinese Friend

Encounter through the Cabinet Office's Youth International Exchange Program

The recruitment for the Cabinet Office's online project under the Youth International Exchange Program with China has begun. This online program is a virtual version of the exchange program I participated in, which involves visiting China. It offers an opportunity for young people, including university students and professionals, to engage in international exchange even after travel between Japan and China became difficult.

While I won't be able to participate this year due to my study abroad plans, I've previously been involved in this online project as a member of the organizing committee. Although the online exchange with Chinese youths lasts for just one day, it allows for further interactions through platforms like WeChat and fosters ongoing connections.

During this project, I had the chance to meet with S-chan, a participant from the Chinese side who was visiting Tokyo for sightseeing.

Kamakura Adventure!

At S-chan's request, we decided to visit Kamakura!

Hearing recent news about the increasing number of foreign tourists in Kamakura, I also checked the popular spots for Chinese tourists using RED (小紅書), a Chinese social media platform.

The famous Kamakura High School Front Station on the Enoshima Electric Railway, known as "Enoden," and enjoying ice cream while gazing at the beautiful sea have become trendy activities for tourists, including Chinese visitors.

I also looked up model courses offered by railway companies like Odakyu Line, which cover not only Kamakura but also Enoshima as part of their standard routes.

From Shinjuku to Kamakura in One Hour via JR Shonan-Shinjuku Line

We met at 9 AM at the south exit of Shinjuku Station on the day of our trip.

I had heard a surprising story from another Chinese friend about taking two hours to meet up in the labyrinthine world of Shinjuku, so I set the meeting time early. Luckily, S-chan arrived right on time, and since she was in front of the Bus Terminal in Shinjuku, it was easy to find each other.

There are two routes to reach Kamakura: taking the Enoshima Electric Railway from Fujisawa or directly taking the JR Shonan-Shinjuku Line to Kamakura. This time, we chose the latter.

Arriving at Kamakura Station, we first headed to Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine via Komachi Street, where we strolled and checked out souvenirs.

Some people, like rickshaw pullers and dried fruit shopkeepers, called out to us. As seen on the news, there were many signs in front of shops reminding people not to eat while walking, and it's essential to respect such guidelines.

At Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine, we climbed to the main hall to offer our prayers. I also explained about the Kagura Hall and other parts of the shrine.

Surprisingly, I realized that I might be a living witness to history, as I had memories of the place when there was a ginkgo tree and even when it fell during a typhoon.

Enoden One-day Pass "Noriorikun"

After visiting Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine, we had lunch at a soba noodle restaurant and then hopped on the Enoden. The cute appearance of this tram makes it quite popular among foreign tourists.

We purchased the one-day Enoden pass called "Noriorikun" (800 yen for adults, 400 yen for children).

Since we boarded the train around noon, we found seats and easily moved to our next destination. However, when we got on the train again around 2 PM, it was already packed. It seems that earlier times are less crowded for sightseeing.

Hase Station (Kotoku-in & Hase-dera Temple)

The journey from JR Shinjuku Station to Kamakura took about one hour. As most passengers disembark at Kamakura Station, if you stand closer to the front, you can easily find a seat.

Upon arriving at Kamakura Station, our first stop was Kotoku-in, where the Great Buddha of Kamakura stands. We strolled through Hase Street and enjoyed the view.

S-chan informed me that it is common in China to buy incense and offer prayers. I also recalled my experience of trying this during a previous visit to Shaolin Temple as part of the Cabinet Office program.

Behind the Great Buddha, there is a monument to Yosano Akiko, and we read and discussed the meaning of her poem and its cursive script together.

After exploring Kotoku-in, we headed to Hase-dera Temple. At the ticket counter, I was relieved to find that electronic money could be used for admission. It was handy as I had less cash with me.

At the temple, we also got some amulets for my upcoming study abroad. Furthermore, we got excited searching for the "Ryoen Jizo" (good match Jizo statues) shown in the photo below. S-chan had gathered information about them through RED, and it turned out there were several Jizo statues at different locations within the temple grounds.

While wandering around, we had quite a bit of exercise searching for them.

Wonderful Enoshima

Although S-chan's initial request was to visit Kamakura, since we had already come to the Kamakura area and had a one-day Enoden pass, I explained the attractions of Enoshima before heading there. As we passed through Kamakura High School Front Station, we saw a large crowd of people crossing the railway crossing, as frequently shown in the news.

As we arrived at Enoshima Station, we followed the flow of people and walked toward Enoshima. The smell of the sea filled the air, and we were both thrilled. Many people were enjoying surfing as well. However, it is quite a walk to reach Enoshima.

Feeling tired from the sightseeing until then, we opted for the escalator instead of climbing the stairs within Enoshima. The escalator took us easily to Nakatsu Shrine and Samuel Cocking Garden.

I had never been up to the Enoshima Sea Candle before, so this was my first time. Samuel Cocking Garden was under renovation, and daytime admission was free, which was probably why we decided to visit.

While walking through the park, we discovered a charming art installation. The staff members were carefully preparing for the illumination event scheduled for the evening.

Afterward, we headed toward Okutsu Shrine. Though it might sound a bit spiritual, I have experienced a sense of comfort at Shinto shrines dedicated to sea gods several times. Historically, Okutsu Shrine is famous for cutting ties, but I also felt a similar sense of connection at Enoshima.

Since we were running short on time and energy, we didn't go inside the Enoshima Iwaya Caves. Instead, we enjoyed a clear view of the beautiful sea and conquered the stairs on our way back.

Back to Shinjuku on a Day Trip to Kamakura - A Wonderful Experience!

On our return, we took the Enoden from Enoshima Station to Fujisawa Station, then boarded the Odakyu Line and arrived directly at Shinjuku. It's interesting that you can take different routes to return to Shinjuku after a day trip.

During this day trip, we explored the classic spots popular among foreign tourists in Kamakura!

Though S-chan is a Japanese language learner and not a typical foreign tourist, spending the day with her allowed me to rediscover the longstanding charm of Kamakura and enjoy visiting new shops and souvenir stores.

We also had the opportunity to talk about her life during her study abroad and the preparations she made before coming to Japan, which was very informative and made it a great day overall.

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How to Research Musical and Stage Information in Malaysia and Singapore

I Love Musicals and I'm Going Abroad to Study

As I've mentioned in my previous blog posts, I am a huge fan of musicals and stage performances. Going abroad for my studies is something I'm really looking forward to, but I can't help feeling sad about missing out on the musicals in the latter half of this year. Especially since my all-time favorite "Wicked" by the Gekidan shiki is coming back after about ten years, and I won't be able to watch it.

However, I've decided to turn this into an opportunity to watch English-language musicals while I'm abroad. I find my motivation for language learning comes from wanting to communicate with friends and also from my desire to enjoy musicals and Disney productions in English, as well as stay updated with the latest news using my English skills.

Researching Musical Information in Malaysia

So, what kind of musicals can I expect to find in Malaysia, my study destination? The simplest way to start my search is through Google. I stumbled upon a website called "Broadway World," which seems to be a news aggregator for musicals from around the world.

Upon checking the site, it became apparent that while Asian countries like Japan and Korea may have musicals being performed regularly, the situation is slightly different in Malaysia. It seems that international musical tours come to Malaysia's national theater, "The Istana Budaya" (which translates to "The Palace of Culture"), providing opportunities to watch some well-known productions. I found news and blog posts from a few years back about the staging of "The Sound of Music" in Malaysia.

Though there might be a limitation on the availability of musicals, it's a relief to know that I can watch reasonably well-known productions while gradually improving my understanding of English through these performances.

It's worth mentioning that the broader term "stage entertainment" rather than "musicals" may yield more search results for ongoing performances throughout Malaysia. Unfortunately, this aspect might not be well-known to many, including myself.

Additionally, I came across examples of dance schools attempting to stage musical performances, indicating that the stage scene is somewhat active and open to different forms of entertainment.

Exploring Musical Information in Singapore

On a personal note, I've always felt that Singapore is one of the Asian tour stops for major musical productions, akin to the Shibuya Theatre Orb in Japan. I decided to research musical information in Singapore as well.

It turns out that the Marina Bay Sands theater, a well-known venue featured in TV shows and travel magazines, hosts musical performances. Earlier this year, they staged "Frozen," and during my stay, productions like "& Juliet" and "Mamma Mia!" are scheduled.

Although my study destination will be Kuala Lumpur, which seems a bit distant from Singapore, I stumbled upon a blog post by someone who used to live in Malaysia, sharing their experience of traveling to Singapore for a haircut at a Japanese hair salon. This gives me hope that if our schedules align, I might explore watching musicals in Singapore as well.

Difference in Information Availability Compared to Japan

In Japan, information about upcoming stage performances is often available well in advance. For example, as early as summer, you can already secure the earliest pre-sale tickets for a musical scheduled for the following January. I'd also have information about musicals planned for around the same time next year.

However, during my recent research, I discovered that in Singapore and Malaysia, musical information might become available closer to the performance dates. This means I may need to stay updated more frequently and regularly to ensure I don't miss out on any exciting musicals.

Since it's unlikely that I'll go an entire year without experiencing any stage performances, I'm looking forward to sharing my theater experiences once I'm settled abroad.

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