Pink Lemonade Social

Top 10 Hobart Industries That Benefit from Digital Marketing

Marc B — Fri, 05 Sep 2025 02:06:28 +0000

Hobart is home to a wide range of businesses, including world-class wineries, tourism operators, restaurants, and busy cafés and boutique stores. Having a good online presence is crucial for growth, consumer engagement, and maintaining competitiveness in today’s digitally first world.

In Hobart, digital marketing enables companies to engage with residents, draw in visitors, and turn online curiosity into in-person sales and engagement. The correct approach guarantees that your company reaches the right audience at the right time, whether it be through content marketing, email campaigns, or social media advertising.

The top ten Hobart industries that gain the most from digital marketing will be discussed in this article below. Opportunities to leverage internet tools to improve engagement, raise revenue, and create devoted communities are different for every business. Knowing how digital marketing works for your industry will help you steer clear of generic, ineffectual campaigns and use techniques that are productive.

1. Tourism & Accommodation

The tourism industry in Hobart flourishes through seasonal bookings, highlighting the crucial role of digital marketing in drawing visitors throughout the entire year. Harness the power of social media advertising to effectively reach interstate tourists who are planning their next adventure. Meanwhile, engage your past guests through tailored email campaigns featuring exclusive offers, enticing promotions, and timely seasonal updates.

Content marketing serves as a dynamic asset: engaging blog posts, detailed itineraries, and captivating video tours highlight experiences and empower potential visitors to effectively plan their journeys. Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary effectively utilised Facebook & Instagram ads aimed at individuals passionate about Tasmanian wildlife experiences, alongside a monthly newsletter, leading to a boost in bookings and fundraising initiatives.

Digital Marketing Tip: Leverage retargeting ads to engage visitors who explored your website but didn’t complete a booking, ensuring your tours or accommodations remain at the forefront of their minds. Integrating various channels guarantees a seamless and engaging experience throughout the customer journey.

2. Cafés, Bars & Restaurants

Food and beverage businesses, restaurants and cafes, can leverage social media advertising to effectively showcase their specials, events, and happy hours, engaging both local residents and tourists alike. Email campaigns enhance loyalty initiatives, convey updates on menu offerings, and engage customers with exclusive seasonal promotions.

Engage your audience by showcasing your brand story with captivating behind-the-scenes posts, insightful chef interviews, and enticing recipe videos.

Digital Marketing Tip: Maximize your engagement by leveraging Instagram Stories, interactive polls, and exciting contests! Captivating and concise content that highlights your menu or atmosphere inspires followers to explore and spread the word within their circles.

3. Retail & E-Commerce

Retailers, both online and in physical stores, have the opportunity to harness the power of social media advertising to showcase their products, promotions, and seasonal campaigns effectively. Email marketing cultivates customer loyalty, driving repeat purchases, while content marketing establishes your store as a trusted authority through engaging gift guides, informative how-to posts, and captivating product spotlights.

Digital Marketing Tip: Enhance your marketing strategy by integrating social media with email campaigns for a cohesive shopping journey where you can track the whole customer journey. Monitor performance metrics to refine your messaging and boost conversions.

4. Wineries, Distillers & Local Produce

Tasmanian wineries, distilleries, and artisan producers have the opportunity to engage both locals and tourists by leveraging focused social media campaigns that highlight cellar doors, events, and seasonal releases. Email campaigns engage customers with updates on new products, tasting events, and exclusive promotions, while content marketing captivates audiences by sharing compelling stories about vineyards, the art of wine-making, and delicious recipes.

A Hobart winery leveraged Facebook ads aimed at wine enthusiasts and previous customers, aimed at increasing winery attendance and bookings. The outcome was a surge in bookings for tastings and a boost in online sales.

Digital Marketing Tip: Enhance your emails and social media posts by incorporating links to online stores or booking pages for maximum engagement. Engaging your audience through story-driven content not only fosters sharing but also cultivates lasting brand loyalty.

5. Health, Wellness & Fitness

Local gyms, yoga studios, and wellness providers have the opportunity to engage nearby residents by leveraging Facebook and Instagram ads effectively. Email campaigns effectively engage customers by keeping them informed about classes, promotions, and events. Meanwhile, content marketing elevates your brand’s reputation as a trusted authority through valuable tips, tutorials, and inspiring success stories.

Digital Marketing Tip: Enhance your campaigns by incorporating client testimonials to boost trust and credibility among your audience.

6. Professional Services

Professionals such as accountants, consultants, and lawyers can harness the power of digital marketing to inform clients, establish trust, and draw in potential leads. Engaging content such as blogs, guides, and tips establishes your business as a trusted authority, while targeted email campaigns effectively nurture leads and ensure your existing clients stay informed. Leverage social media advertising to effectively showcase webinars, consultations, and seasonal services.

Digital Marketing Tip: Emphasize delivering value through your content by offering practical tips or insights, which will foster trust and encourage long-term engagement.

7. Arts & Culture

Boost attendance and engagement at galleries, theatres, and cultural events in Hobart through the power of digital marketing. Engaging social media advertisements drive awareness for exhibitions, performances, and ticket sales, attracting both local audiences and tourists alike. Email campaigns engage subscribers with exciting updates on upcoming events, exclusive memberships, and sneak previews that they will not want to miss!

Content marketing unveils the narratives behind your art, performances, or events, forging a meaningful connection with your audience. A local theatre company effectively leveraged Facebook ads and weekly newsletters to boost ticket sales for their new season, leading to sold-out performances.

Digital Marketing Tip: Leverage the power of video content and storytelling to forge emotional bonds with your audience, inspiring them to share your message.

8. Education & Training Providers

Educational institutions, training organizations, and workshops have the opportunity to engage students and trainees through strategic social media initiatives, compelling blog content, and effective email marketing strategies. Showcase courses, scholarships, and enrollment deadlines to maximize visibility and drive engagement. Engaging in content marketing through blog posts and video tutorials elevates your business to a thought leader status, fostering trust and credibility with your audience.

Digital Marketing Tip: Enhance your email marketing strategy by segmenting your lists according to course interest or demographics. This approach allows you to send tailored, relevant messages that resonate with your audience.

9. Property & Real Estate

Real estate professionals and property management teams can effectively highlight their listings through engaging social media advertisements and strategic retargeting campaigns. Email marketing engages potential buyers, while content marketing delivers valuable guides, market insights, and property tips to enhance their experience. By sharing market trends and insights, you establish credibility and position your agency as the go-to local expert.

Digital Marketing Tip:Enhance your online listings and campaigns by incorporating high-quality visuals and engaging video walkthroughs.

10. Nonprofits & Community Organisations

Nonprofits in Hobart have the opportunity to harness the power of social media, email campaigns, and content marketing to elevate their visibility, engage potential volunteers, and boost donations. Engaging social media campaigns broaden your reach to targeted audiences, while email campaigns effectively nurture relationships with past supporters. Meanwhile, content marketing captivates by sharing compelling narratives about your mission and the impact you create. Effective digital marketing strategies are essential for fostering community engagement and guaranteeing that your organization’s message connects with the right audience seamlessly.

Digital Marketing Tip:Enhance your outreach by showcasing authentic narratives and tangible results to forge emotional connections with your audience and boost engagement.

Conclusion
Regardless of the sector, businesses in Hobart stand to gain significantly from implementing strategic digital marketing initiatives. Harnessing the power of social media advertising, email campaigns, and content marketing allows businesses to connect with new customers, captivate their current audience, and drive revenue growth.

Digital marketing empowers a diverse range of businesses in Hobart, from tourism operators and cafés to professional services and nonprofits, by enabling them to execute measurable and cost-effective campaigns specifically designed for the local audience. Local businesses have the opportunity to stand out against mainland brands by harnessing the power of hyper-local targeting, compelling storytelling, and personalized engagement strategies.

Partnering with a dedicated digital marketing expert such as Pink Lemonade Social guarantees that your campaigns are strategic, professional, and focused on delivering results. Harnessing local expertise and effective strategies, businesses in Hobart can excel both online and offline, enhancing sales, customer loyalty, and brand visibility.

Ready to see how digital marketing in Hobart can transform your business? Contact Pink Lemonade Social today for a free consultation.

7 Amazing Things to Do in Wakayama, Japan (Temples, Castles & Hidden Gems)

Marc B — Thu, 14 Aug 2025 23:52:08 +0000

7 Amazing Things to Do in Wakayama, Japan (Temples, Castles & Hidden Gems)

Looking for the best things to do in Wakayama, Japan? From spiritual temples and ancient castles to white-sand beaches and off-the-beaten-path adventures, Wakayama Prefecture is a must-visit destination in Japan’s Kansai region.

Wakayama Prefecture is a historical and spiritual centre of Japan. Located on the Kii Peninsula, south of Osaka in the Kansai region, Wakayama plays host to some of the most scenic spots in Japan, including the well-known Kumano Kodo pilgrimage route the holy mountain Koyasan, and many other attractions. As well as the world-famous Wakayama Castle, Wakayama also hosts Mount Koya or Koyasan, one of Japan’s most sacred and most beautiful places – one place that definitely needs to be on your bucket list. It is said that Wakayama is Japan’s spiritual heartland because of the area’s numerous, well-known religious sites and the extensive network of hiking trails that lead to the Kumano Kodo pilgrimage site. Shirahama beach, onsen resorts, beautiful natural scenery, and inhabited islands are just some of the other popular destinations in the prefecture. Listed below are some of the best attractions in Wakayama Prefecture that I can 100% vouch for!

1. Wakayama Castle (和歌山城)

Wakayama Castle was built in 1585, opened to the public in 1867, destroyed during World War II and rebuilt in 1958. It is a symbol of Wakayama city and was designated as a national treasure in 1935. Still need more convincing?

The castle sits at the mouth of the Kii River in Wakayama City and makes a perfect place to visit if you’re staying in the city. While the original structure was built in 1585, much of the current infrastructure was reconstructed in 1958 after World War II. Only the Okaguchi Gate and the stone walls of the original castle are left. There is still an original moat and stone wall around Wakayama Castle, which overlooks the city from its perch. As one of the best castles in Japan, it is especially beautiful in the spring, when the cherry trees are at their peak of bloom. Matcha green tea can be found in a teahouse in the nearby Momijidani Japanese Garden, which is especially lovely in the autumn.

It is also possible to visit the castle museum, which is located inside the castle’s main building and contains a collection of historical artefacts. You can also visit the Wakayama Museum of Modern Art in the castle grounds, which houses an impressive collection of Japanese and Western contemporary art. Nishi-no-Maru Garden, built in the 17th century, features a pond as well as a waterfall.

Wakayama Castle opens from 9 a.m. to 5.30 p.m. and has a ¥410 yen entry fee.

Some of Wakayama’s best seafood and Wakayama-themed souvenirs can be found in the Kuroshio neighbourhood near the castle. If you’re a fan of hot springs, the Kishu Kuroshio Onsen is a great place to relax and unwind after a long day of sightseeing.

You can find out more information on Wakayama Castle here.

2. Kimiidera Temple (紀三井寺)

A major tourist attraction during cherry blossom season, Kimiidera Temple is a popular place to visit especially in spring. It was built in 770 and has a striking red facade that stands out against the surrounding green mountains. Kimiidera Temple is a striking example of Buddhist architecture and is the most revered temple in Wakayama, even said to have been visited by emperors.

The early blooming cherry blossoms at this temple are well-known hence it’s a popular place to go in early spring. This temple is close to Wakayama city, only a couple of stops away from Wakayama station. Take the Kisei Line to Kimiidera station, with the temple only a short walk away.

3. Wakayama Dentetsu

Do you know a cat that has a better job than you? Well Tama is the super-station master along the Wakayama Dentetsu’s Kishigawa Line. When you board the train you’re’ greeted by this furry station master, and she even has her own themed café!

From Wakayama Station to Kishi Station, the Wakayama Electric Railway serves as a branch line and is known for its Station Master cats. On certain days of the week, visitors are able to peer into the enclosures of the current feline residents. There are four different themed trains that run on a rotating basis. There are several sites to see along the route, despite the fact that the train line passes through rural territory. Whether you’re a cat lover or a train enthusiast, the Wakayama Electric Railway is an excellent way to get away from the city’s hustle and bustle.

You can find out more info from the official website here.

4. Tomogashima Island (友ヶ島)

Like exploring abandoned places, then make sure you visit Tomogashima! An abandoned military fort complete with batteries, ruins, a lighthouse and stunning scenery. It also resembles the Studio Ghibli movie ‘Castle in the sky’.

Tomogashima is a lot less well-known, and even many native Japanese people aren’t aware of this great day trip not far from Osaka Kyoto’s bustling cities. We were tipped off by a friend of a friend, and were so glad to find and explore this hidden gem. In this area, you won’t find many tourists, but you’ll find a few locals and older Japanese people who like to go hiking or water-colouring, or independent travellers (like me!). The island you’ll be visiting is actually known as Okinoshima Island. It’s an abandoned military base, with fortresses and battery sites built by the Japanese Army in the 1890s to protect Osaka Bay during the Meiji period (1868-1912).

5. Nachi Waterfall / Daimon-zaka / Kumano Nachi Taisha

In Japan, one of the most well-known waterfalls is the Nachi Waterfall. The highest waterfall cascade in Japan, Hirou Gongen, is revered as a Shinto deity because of its 133-meter height – the country’s tallest single uninterrupted waterfall.
The Shinto shrine at Nachi Falls, Kumano Nachi Taisha, is part of the UNESCO World Heritage Sacred Sites and Pilgrimage Routes in Japan’s Kii Mountain Range, along with the nearby Buddhist temple Nachisan Seiganto-ji Tenda. Japan’s harmonious mix of Shintoism and Buddhism is exemplified by the close proximity of both shrines and temples to the enormous waterfall.
One of the most iconic, scenic and photographed spots in Japan is the three-story vermilion pagoda Daimon-zaka with the falls directly behind.
Walking to Nachi waterfall you pass through Japanese cedars, camphors, and bamboo, creating a serene surreal environment.

6. Kumano Kodo Pilgrimage Trails (熊野古道)

There is a network of pilgrimage trails in the southern Kansai region known as Kumano Kodo. For over a thousand years, the Kodo (“old ways”) have been an important part of the region’s UNESCO designation. They are one of two in the world pilgrimage routes to be designated a world heritage site.
The pilgrimage routes on the Kii Peninsula grew out of the need for people to travel between sacred sites. It is said that Kumano Sanzan is made up of three shrines, Hongu Taisha, Hayatama Taisha and Nachi Taisha, located in the heart of this religious area.
There are four main routes that run through Kyoto, Koyasan (the headquarters of Shingon Buddhism – see below), Yoshino & Omine (mountain-worship centres), and Ise Japan’s holiest shrine): the Kodo pilgrimage trails.
Coastal trails have largely been obliterated by development, but there are still a few mountain trails and passes. Stopping at one of the main temples or anywhere along the pilgrimage trails is definitely worth it.

7. Mt Koya / Koyasan (高野山)

Kukai the monk, later known as Kobo Daishi, built a large monastery complex known as Mount Koya in 819 which became the heart of Shingon Buddhism. At the centre of Koyasan is Okunoin Temple, home Kukai’s mauseoleum. Large cedar forests surround Okunoin (奥の院), which is home to a cemetery with the mausoleums of many famous Japanese people, including Toyotomi Hideyoshi, who was the samurai ruler of Japan at the time. Okunoin is one Japan’s most sacred places and a popular pilgrimage destination, and it marked the culmination of an incredible adventure along the Kumano Kodo pilgrimage.

The total area of Koyasan is relatively large and it was home to more than 2,000 temples during the Edo period (1603-1868), but only 117 of them remain today. About half of the mountain’s temples now serve as shukubo lodgings, where guests can spend the night, dine on vegetarian fare prepared by monks, and participate in morning prayers. This has to be one of the top 3 experiences you can do in Japan. As part of staying at a buddhist temple, you get to go on a midnight tour through the cemetery which is incredible.

In 2004, the UNESCO listed Mount Koya and its associated sites as a World Heritage Site. For more information or the different temple lodgings, visit here.

Bonus Spot: Shirahama (白浜町)

Living in Osaka, I definitely missed the beach in summer so spent quite a few summer days exploring the best beaches in Osaka and Kansai – one of which is Shirahama.

According to local legend, the beach’s white sand was imported from Australia, hence the name “white beach,” which translates to “sparkling beach” in Japanese. It’s Kansai’s prettiest beach, if not the prettiest in Japan. The 600-meter-long curved beach is home to a number of hotels with direct access to the ocean.

Shirahama is also known as a hot springs resort because of its well-developed infrastructure. Wakayama’s coastline features more than 600 kilometres of beaches, many of which have fine, white sand yet Shirahama still remains a favourite for Japanese residents and tourists alike. The swimming season is at its busiest in the months of July and August, and accommodation prices understandably increase during these times.

Conclusion: Why Wakayama Belongs on Your Japan Itinerary

Wakayama is a magical blend of spiritual heritage, breathtaking nature, and coastal charm—offering something for every kind of traveller. Whether you’re hiking ancient pilgrimage trails, soaking in Shirahama’s hot springs, or discovering hidden islands like Tomogashima, each experience adds a new layer to your Japan journey. Easy to access from Osaka or Kyoto, Wakayama is the perfect side trip or standalone destination that delivers history, serenity, and unforgettable views. Add it to your travel list—you won’t regret it.

How to Advertise Your Music Tour Like a Pro: A Complete Guide

Marc B — Thu, 14 Aug 2025 23:03:58 +0000

How to Advertise Your Music Tour Like a Pro: A Complete Guide

Touring is a crucial element in the journey of every artist’s career. While the venues, setlist, and performance are important, the true success of your tour hinges on your skill in promoting your shows effectively. Effectively promoting your tour is crucial for maximising ticket sales. In the current digital landscape, developing a strategic campaign that engages your audience is essential.
This guide will expertly navigate you through all the essential steps to promote your tour with professionalism, covering everything from identifying your target audience to leveraging the most effective tools for a comprehensive advertising strategy across multiple channels. Regardless of whether you’re an experienced touring artist or a fresh talent gearing up for your inaugural tour, these strategies will empower you to elevate your tour promotion efforts.

1. Understand Your Audience

Before you start creating ads, it’s essential to know who you’re speaking to. Your advertising strategy should be tailored to the specific demographics and interests of your fans.

How to Define Your Audience:

Demographics: Identify the age, gender, and location of your current fanbase. Who is following you on social media and streaming platforms like Spotify? Where are they based?
Listening Behaviour: Review your streaming platforms to gather insights into which cities or countries your music resonates with the most. This helps target specific geographic locations for your ads.
Interests: Go beyond basic demographics. What are your fans interested in? Are they into other music genres or local events? This information can help refine your ad targeting.

The more you understand your audience, the better your chances of creating an ad campaign that speaks directly to their interests.

2. Create a Multi-Channel Advertising Strategy

To effectively promote your tour, it’s essential to leverage various channels to guarantee the widest possible audience engagement. Utilising a blend of digital advertising, print, and local media will effectively engage your audience across multiple platforms.

Digital Advertising: Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok

Facebook & Instagram Ads: These platforms allow you to target fans based on location, interests, and behaviour. Using custom audiences or lookalike audiences, you can target people who are most likely to attend your show.
- Geo-Targeting: Use geo-targeting to focus on specific cities or regions where you’re performing.
- Ad Types: Consider using event ads for multiple tour dates or video ads to showcase performance footage.
TikTok Ads: TikTok is a great platform for engaging younger fans with creative, viral content. Short-form videos showcasing your tour or behind-the-scenes footage can go a long way in creating excitement.
- Hashtags and Challenges: Create a tour-specific hashtag or challenge to encourage fan participation and shareable content.
YouTube Ads: Use YouTube’s video ad formats (skippable, non-skippable, and bumper ads) to give fans a sneak peek of your upcoming tour. Promoting your tour videos can build anticipation and lead to ticket sales.

Spotify Ads: As a music-focused platform, Spotify allows you to reach listeners who are already in the mindset to discover and engage with music.

Audio & Video Ads: Use short audio spots or video ads between songs to promote your tour dates, with clickable links to ticketing pages.
Audience Targeting: Target by genre preferences, location, and even listener behaviour—like fans of similar artists or playlists related to your sound.
Ad Studio: Spotify Ad Studio makes it easy to create and launch ads with voiceover options if you don’t have pre-recorded audio content.

Print and Local Media

While digital ads are essential, don’t overlook traditional media, especially in local markets. A great music PR Agency, such as On The Map PR can help with this!

Local Newspapers and Magazines: Many towns or cities where you’re performing have local publications that reach the area’s core audience. A full-page ad or a feature can go a long way in building awareness for your show, and getting articles in relevant media can help drive awareness and ticket sales.
Radio: Consider placing ads on local radio stations. Some stations even offer free ad spots for touring artists, so it’s worth checking in advance.

Email Marketing

Email marketing remains one of the most effective ways to engage with your most loyal fans.

Email Newsletters: Build an email list and send out tour updates, exclusive content, and ticket discounts. Include a countdown to your shows and exclusive perks to encourage ticket purchases.

3. Boost Your Visibility with Social Media Content

Harnessing the power of social media is essential for promoting your tour, particularly when paired with strategic paid advertising. It’s essential to strike the right balance between organic content and paid campaigns to cultivate a vibrant community around your tour.

Content Creation Tips:

Teasers and Countdown Posts: Share snippets of your rehearsals, behind-the-scenes footage, or tour preparations to get fans excited. A countdown to each show or location is an easy way to create anticipation.
Fan Engagement: Encourage fans to share their excitement about your shows by reposting fan content or running a contest. For example, a “ticket giveaway” post where fans share your tour flyer can increase your reach and promote your shows at the same time.

Paid Social Media Ads:

Create engaging ads that align with your organic content. Use stunning visuals and videos that highlight your performances, the cities you’re touring, and any other unique elements of your shows.
Experiment with ad placements: Instagram Stories, Facebook feed, and even Spotify’s ad platform all offer different benefits based on the type of ad you’re creating.

If you’re ready to take your music marketing to the next level, Pink Lemonade Social’s expert Music Marketing Services can help you craft a tailored advertising strategy that gets your music heard by the right audience and maximizes your impact on Facebook and Instagram, and Spotify.

4. Use Video Content for Maximum Impact

Video content stands out as the most captivating form of advertising on social media and various platforms. This approach grabs attention, highlights your unique personality, and offers fans an exciting glimpse of what’s to come on tour.

Types of Videos to Use:

Tour Teasers: Share short clips of your rehearsals, soundchecks, or personal stories. Create a hype video that highlights the best moments of your shows and the excitement around your upcoming tour.
Live Performances: Post videos from your previous live shows (if applicable) to give your audience a taste of what’s to come.
Instagram Reels and TikTok Videos: These platforms thrive on short-form content. Create quick, engaging snippets of your tour life, whether that’s fun moments on the road or funny clips that capture the essence of your shows.

5. Collaborate with Influencers and Local Partners

One of the most effective ways to build buzz around your tour is through collaborations. Influencers, local brands, and even other artists can help you reach a wider audience and gain more exposure.

Influencer Marketing:

Work with local influencers who have a strong following in the cities you’re performing. They can promote your show to their audience by sharing your tour dates, behind-the-scenes content, or exclusive offers.

Brand Partnerships:

Partner with local businesses (bars, cafes, record stores, etc.) for mutual promotions. For example, a local bar could offer a discount to ticket holders, and in return, you could promote the venue on your social media.

6. Retargeting: The Key to Increased Conversions

Once you’ve launched your campaign and generated some traffic, it’s time to retarget the audience who has interacted with your ads or visited your ticket sales page.

How Retargeting Ads Work:

Website Retargeting: If someone clicks on your tour page but doesn’t purchase tickets, retarget them with a follow-up ad offering a special discount or reminding them about your upcoming show.
Social Media Retargeting: Similarly, if a user engages with your Instagram or Facebook ad but doesn’t convert, retarget them with a reminder ad.

By keeping your campaign in front of potential ticket buyers, you increase the chances of converting them into actual attendees.

7. Track Performance and Adjust in Real-Time

Lastly, it’s critical to track the performance of your campaign in real-time. Platforms like Facebook Ads Manager, Google Analytics, and even Instagram Insights provide valuable metrics that can help you optimize your ad spend and improve your targeting.

Key Metrics to Track:

Click-Through Rate (CTR): The percentage of people who clicked on your ad versus how many saw it. A higher CTR means your ads are resonating with your audience.
Conversion Rate: This measures how many people completed an action, such as purchasing tickets, after engaging with your ad.
Engagement: Track likes, shares, comments, and saves to gauge the effectiveness of your content and the level of excitement about your tour.

By implementing an effective strategy, you can promote your tour with expertise and cultivate a dedicated fanbase that will accompany you from city to city. Utilising social media ads, engaging influencer collaborations, and strategic local media outreach, a comprehensive advertising campaign will guarantee that your shows achieve sell-out success and your tour flourishes.
Gain insights into your audience, leverage a multi-channel strategy, craft captivating content, and monitor your outcomes to elevate your tour promotion to its highest potential. Are you prepared to take the next step? Elevate your tour advertising to new heights!

GET IN TOUCH!

Your music marketing may benefit from our assistance. As a strategic digital marketing agency, Pink Lemonade Social takes pride in assisting artists, managers, tour companies and record labels with bold ideas to confidently connect with their audiences.

Some of our Music Marketing experience includes

Why Digital Marketing is Essential for Small Businesses in Tasmania

Marc B — Tue, 05 Aug 2025 01:05:00 +0000

Operating a small business in Tasmania presents distinct challenges — from standing out against mainland brands to engaging with both locals and seasonal visitors. In today’s landscape of online shopping, social media, and email communications, establishing a robust digital presence is essential.

Unlock the potential of your Tasmanian business with digital marketing strategies designed to connect you with your ideal audience, foster meaningful relationships, and achieve tangible growth. Harness the power of social media advertising to drive foot traffic and boost online sales, while expertly crafted email campaigns cultivate lasting customer loyalty. A customised strategy can truly transform your results.

No matter if you run a café in Hobart, a boutique shop in Launceston, or a winery on the East Coast, leveraging effective digital marketing strategies empowers your business to compete, connect, and flourish — all while staying within a modest budget.

1. Reach Your Audience Where They Are

Tasmanians are highly engaged online, exploring Instagram for the latest local cafés, staying updated on events through Facebook, and keeping in touch with trusted businesses via email. Engaging in digital marketing enables you to connect with customers in the spaces they frequent most. Read our guide to 5 Facebook Advertising Mistakes Most Small Businesses Make.

Imagine a Hobart-based tourism operator leveraging Facebook ads to attract interstate visitors eager to explore Tasmania. Meanwhile, a local café could harness the power of Instagram ads to connect with residents living within a 10-kilometre radius. Email marketing enhances this strategy by keeping in touch with past customers, promoting repeat bookings, and showcasing new products.

By integrating these strategies, small businesses can enhance their visibility to the ideal audience precisely when it matters most — a feat that traditional advertising methods frequently overlook.

2. Cost-Effective Marketing for Small Budgets

Conventional advertising methods such as billboards, print advertisements, and radio spots often come with high costs and pose challenges in terms of measurement. Digital marketing provides small businesses with a highly efficient and budget-friendly strategy. A small retailer in Hobart can effectively connect with hundreds or even thousands of potential customers in their target area, all while working within a modest budget.

Social media platforms such as Facebook and Instagram enable highly targeted audience engagement, while email campaigns can be customized to resonate with distinct customer segments. By leveraging A/B testing and continuous optimization, companies can enhance their performance while staying within budget.

Imagine harnessing the power of a $300/month social media ad campaign to boost bookings for your local tourism business. Coupled with a strategic email sequence, you can effortlessly transform past visitors into loyal repeat customers — all while tracking your impressive ROI.

3. Compete with Larger Brands

Digital marketing may help small businesses compete on an equal footing with larger, more well-known brands. Businesses in Tasmania can reach out to locals with hyper-local ads that cater to their specific tastes.

While bigger firms utilise generic messaging, a Hobart business can use Instagram ads to emphasise limited-stock, locally-made products. Past customers might be made to feel appreciated through email marketing by personalising offers.

Small businesses in Tasmania may compete effectively, establish a devoted following, and even surpass larger competitors by combining local knowledge with focused strategies and real message.

4. Build Trust and Relationships

The goal of digital marketing should go beyond simply increasing revenue; it should also aim to build trust. Businesses can engage with their audience, exhibit their knowledge, and showcase their personality through blogs, engaging social media content, and consistent email campaigns.

A winery or distillery in Tasmania, for instance, may use newsletters and social media to announce forthcoming events, seasonal products, and behind-the-scenes anecdotes. This maintains interaction with consumers, which in turn increases the likelihood of repeat purchases and, ultimately, brand loyalty.

5. Measurable Results and Insights

The remarkable benefit of digital marketing lies in its ability to be measured effectively. In contrast to conventional advertising methods, you gain clear visibility into what drives results — from the clicks and conversions of your Facebook ads to the open rates and engagement levels of your email campaigns.

A small Hobart retailer could find that their Instagram ads shine during weekend promotions, while email campaigns excel in the middle of the week. By leveraging these insights, campaigns can be optimized for peak performance, guaranteeing that your marketing budget is utilized effectively.

6. Stay Relevant in a Changing Market

Tasmania’s market is dynamic and influenced by seasonal trends, especially in the tourism and hospitality sectors. Embracing digital marketing empowers businesses to swiftly adjust to changing landscapes.

Imagine harnessing the power of social media campaigns to showcase unforgettable winter experiences such as mountain retreats, or to highlight exhilarating summer events like coastal tours. Seasonal specials and last-minute deals can be effectively showcased through email campaigns. Maintaining agility keeps your business at the forefront, adapting seamlessly to evolving customer behaviours.

7. Tips for Small Businesses in Tasmania

• Cultivate a mailing list and consistently connect with customers through tailored email communications.

• Share 2–3 captivating posts weekly on social media that resonate with your audience.

• Engage previous customers with enticing promotions or timely reminders.

• Integrate social media advertising with targeted email campaigns to optimize conversion rates.

• Monitor key performance indicators such as clicks, opens, bookings, and sales meticulously, and refine campaigns according to the insights gained.

Even minor advancements in digital marketing can yield impressive outcomes for local businesses. Consistency, relevance, and precise targeting are essential for success.

Conclusion

Embracing digital marketing is crucial for small businesses in Tasmania to thrive and reach their full potential. Utilizing social media advertising, email marketing, and content marketing can propel your business to new heights, fostering engagement and ensuring you stay competitive in the dynamic online environment. You can view our complete list of brand experience including some home grown heroes we’ve had the pleasure of working with! Looking for more helpful info? Check out our list of informative digital marketing blogs!

Ready to grow your Tasmanian business? Contact Pink Lemonade Social today for a chat or obligation-free consultation.

Up Close with Tassie Devils at Tasmanian Devil Unzoo – Hobart

Marc B — Tue, 27 May 2025 01:37:52 +0000

When you think of Tasmania, the first thing that probably comes to mind is Tassie Devils. If you haven’t fallen head over heels for these wild little creatures yet, you simply need to see one up close! They are undeniably some of the most fascinating and adorably quirky animals you’ll ever encounter.

As an initial visitor to Tasmania for an incredible week-long adventure (before we ended up moving here), our first stop right after landing at Hobart Airport was an absolute must-visit: the Tasmanian Devil Unzoo, where we got to experience these amazing Tassie Devils up close and personal! Just an hour’s drive from Hobart along the scenic Arthur Highway and a mere 10 minutes from the iconic Port Arthur Historic Site, this gem is the ideal pit stop before immersing yourself in rich history.

If you have a passion for animals, a heart for ethical wildlife experiences, or simply want to connect with some of Australia’s most iconic and endangered species, this destination is a must-visit on your Tassie adventure! You won’t believe how unforgettable this experience is!

So, What Exactly Is Tasmanian Devil Unzoo?

The clue is in the name—Unzoo. Unlike traditional zoos, Unzoo flips the script. Instead of cages and barriers, the focus is on creating open, natural habitats where animals roam freely (or as freely as possible). The outcome? An immersive experience that transports you right into their world, making you feel like a part of it all!

Absolutely, the highlight here is the Tasmanian Devils, but don’t miss out on the incredible array of marsupials! You’ll encounter kangaroos, wallabies, and the cutest little pademelons, plus a stunning variety of native birds that will take your breath away. Keep your eyes peeled for the chance to encounter wild echidnas, wombats, or possums! We didn’t have the pleasure of spotting any echidnas or wombats this time around, but there’s always a next adventure waiting for us!

Before you dive into the incredible wildlife, let me tell you, the concept of this destination. Unzoo is a revolutionary concept that completely transforms the way we think about wildlife experiences. Instead of confining animals and showcasing them as mere exhibits, Unzoo invites visitors into the animals’ world—immersing them in the experience—while ensuring the creatures enjoy the freedom and natural habitat they deserve. You’re stepping into their realm, embracing the experience they offer.

The enclosures are a vibrant paradise, bursting with lush greenery and a stunning array of native plants just waiting to be explored. Imagine the thrill of watching kangaroos and wallabies roam freely in their natural habitat! Colourful parrots and other stunning birds gracefully soar above, adding a vibrant touch to the sky! And what about the devils? Even though they’re in secured spaces for safety—both for them and for you—the design and layout create an incredible illusion that you’re witnessing them in their natural habitat. This animal attraction is truly a refreshing escape from the usual, offering a delightful experience that feels both modern and ethically sound. It’s like stepping into a eucalyptus-scented paradise!

Saving the Tassie Devil: A Story Worth Knowing

Before we get back to the cuteness overload, it’s worth understanding a bit about the park’s background. Tasmanian Devil Unzoo opened in 1979, beginning with a few orphan devils and other hand-raised or rehabilitated wildlife. A year later, they started a captive breeding program. Fast forward to the early 2000s, and Unzoo became part of critical conservation efforts when Devil Facial Tumour Disease (DFTD)—a contagious and deadly cancer—started wiping out the population.

Between 1996 and 2007, devil numbers plummeted from around 150,000 to just 10,000–15,000. It’s heartbreaking, but also a reminder of how important places like Unzoo are in protecting and preserving Australia’s unique wildlife.

A Mission That Matters: Devil Facial Tumour Disease & Conservation

It’s easy to get caught up in the cuteness of Tassie Devils, but the story behind them is serious—and heartbreaking.

Since the 1990s, Tasmania’s devil population has been under siege from a rare, contagious cancer called Devil Facial Tumour Disease (DFTD). The disease is brutal: it causes large facial tumours, making it difficult for affected devils to eat. It spreads through biting, which is common among devils when they fight or feed, and it’s almost always fatal.

By the mid-2000s, populations had declined by more than 80%, dropping from an estimated 150,000 individuals to fewer than 20,000—and in some regions, nearly to extinction.

Tasmanian Devil Unzoo was one of the first wildlife sanctuaries to jump into action. Starting in 2006, they joined a network of wildlife conservation groups working to create insurance populations—captive devils kept disease-free and safe, with the goal of maintaining genetic diversity and one day reintroducing devils into wild areas.

They’ve also supported breeding programs, public education, and habitat restoration—all while providing a platform for visitors to learn about these amazing animals and the threats they face.

It’s one thing to see a Tasmanian Devil in a photo. It’s another thing entirely to watch one pace, yawn, sniff the air, and look directly at you, knowing just how rare and vulnerable they’ve become.

A Devil of a Time: Face-to-Face with Tasmanian Devils

Unzoo features four unique Tasmanian Devil habitats, with one just off the main entrance. But the Devil Den is the showstopper—you crawl through an underground tunnel and pop up in a clear dome right inside the enclosure. At one point, we were this close to touching noses with one of the devils!

We got to the park not long after it opened and practically had the place to ourselves, which meant loads of time to hang out with the devils and snap some incredible shots. Honestly, we expected them to be shy, but they were the total opposite—one little guy even walked right up to sniff us, and another sat with us for 10 minutes inside the Devil Den, just yawning and chilling.

It was part-cute, part-menacing—but we later learned that this “yawn” is actually a fear or stress signal. It’s the devil’s way of saying, “Back off.” This display captures the essence of fear, anxiety, and stress, showcasing a journey through the complexities of human emotions rather than just aggression. It’s a fascinating way to channel nervous energy into something completely harmless and enjoyable! We kept still and respectful, and he rewarded us by hanging around for a full 10 minutes before lumbering off into the trees.

And that wasn’t the only interaction. Just outside the Den, there are other enclosures where you can see devils in pairs or small groups. Some were snoozing in the sun. Others were play-fighting or investigating their surroundings. Unlike zoo animals that sometimes pace in boredom, these devils were active and alert—and genuinely seemed interested in us.

Kangaroo Valley & The Cutest Joey Ever

After almost an hour mesmerised by the devils, we ventured out to explore more of the park’s 2km+ of bush trails. Along the way, we spotted curious pademelons, cheeky parrots yelling “hello,” and the sleepy eyes of tawny frogmouths.

But the real magic happened in the open kangaroo paddock (a.k.a. Kangaroo Valley). Dozens of roos and wallabies were relaxing in the sun when a baby joey hopped straight over to us—demanding a scratch. And once we started, there was no going back. This tiny bundle of cuteness followed us around the whole time and even tried to hop out of the enclosure with us when we left. We’re not crying, you’re crying.

And we’re not exaggerating—this tiny roo was a total social butterfly. It was one of those once-in-a-lifetime moments where nature feels like magic. If you’ve ever doubted whether animals can show affection or curiosity, spend five minutes with this joey and you’ll be a believer.

15 Fascinating Facts About Tassie Devils

Want to impress your friends with some devilish trivia? Here are some amazing facts we learned during our visit:

They weigh up to 12 kg—smaller than you might think.
They’re the world’s largest carnivorous marsupial.
Their chubby tails store fat (think of it as their survival stash) – —so a plump tail is a sign of a healthy devil.
They have one of the most powerful bites on Earth and can open their jaws up to 80 degrees!
Their “yawn” is actually a fear response, not aggression.
They can run up to 24 km/h—for a whole hour.
They won’t attack humans, but they will defend themselves if cornered.
A 10 kg devil can eat 1 kg of food in a day—and up to 40% of its own body weight in one sitting!
They mate once a year, in March.
Females are only pregnant for about 21 days.
Joeys stay in their mother’s pouch for around four months.
When threatened, they growl, scream, and show their teeth—classic devil mode.
Baby devils are adorably called “imps.”
Their lifespan is around five to eight years.
Yep—they’re pretty good at climbing trees, too.

Where Is the Tasmanian Devil Unzoo?

Tasmanian Devil Unzoo is located just an hour’s drive from Hobart, along the Arthur Highway, in a small town called Taranna. It’s also only about 10 minutes from the Port Arthur Historic Site, which makes it a perfect half-day stop before or after a dive into Tasmania’s convict past.

The drive itself is scenic and easy, winding along the Tasman Peninsula’s rugged coastline and lush bushland. There are plenty of spots to pull over for coffee or a photo, but honestly, we were too excited—we headed straight for the devils.

**Final Thoughts: Why You Must Visit Tasmanian Devil Unzoo**

In a world where many wildlife parks are either overly commercialised or ethically questionable, Tasmanian Devil Unzoo stands out as a shining example of conservation, education, and compassion done right. It’s more than just a tourist stop—it’s a living, breathing mission to protect one of Australia’s most endangered and fascinating species.

If you’re heading to Tasmania, Tasmanian Devil Unzoo is a must-visit. From the up-close encounters to the heartfelt conservation work, to the chance to hand-feed a wallaby or befriend a baby joey, every minute we spent here was memorable. Whether you’re an animal lover, a conservation enthusiast, or just someone looking for an authentic Tassie experience, this place belongs on your bucket list – —you’ll leave with a full heart, a camera roll bursting with cuteness, and a whole new appreciation for one of Australia’s most misunderstood animals.

Travel Tip:
Go early for a quieter experience and better photo ops. Allow 2–3 hours minimum to explore the full park. And bring a jacket—it’s Tassie, after all!

Why Independent Artists Should Be Using Spotify Advertising in 2025-2026

Marc B — Tue, 20 May 2025 00:41:10 +0000

Why Independent Artists Should Be Using Spotify Advertising in 2025-2026

In the ever-changing world of music promotion, independent artists encounter fresh obstacles in ensuring their music reaches the audience it deserves. With the amount of content, art and algorithms, it’s more important than ever to have a clear marketing strategy in place. By 2025, Spotify advertising has become an essential resource for musicians aiming to broaden their audience. Are you ready to elevate your music career? Whether you’re aiming to showcase a new single, expand your audience, or land a coveted spot on algorithm-driven playlists, leveraging Spotify’s advertising tools can provide the competitive advantage you seek. With the platform’s precise advertising capabilities and opportunities for organic growth, it’s evident that independent artists should integrate Spotify Ads into their promotional approach.

Discover the compelling advantages and effective strategies of utilising Spotify Ads in 2025 and 2026. For independent musicians striving for success, this approach has evolved from a mere option to an essential tool.

1. Spotify Is Still the Top Platform for Music Discovery

Boasting an impressive 675 million active monthly users globally, Spotify stands as the unparalleled champion in the realm of music streaming and discovery. This is the ultimate hub for music enthusiasts eager to discover fresh genres, artists, and tracks. Spotify’s algorithmic playlists, such as Discover Weekly and Release Radar, are essential for enabling users to uncover new tracks tailored to their listening habits.
For independent artists, promoting music on Spotify opens the door to a vast audience of potential listeners, enhancing visibility and reach. Utilising targeted Spotify ads guarantees that your music seamlessly integrates into listeners’ daily lives—be it during their commute, workout sessions, or moments of relaxation at home. Spotify presents an exceptional chance for effortless yet precisely-targeted promotion, ensuring your music reaches the ideal audience seamlessly. Spotify’s ad targeting can also hone in on listeners who are already engaged in your genre, increasing the chances that your music will resonate with them and spark a long-term connection.

2. Spotify Ad Studio Makes It Easy and Accessible for Independent Artists

Independent artists often face significant challenges when it comes to the expenses and intricacies involved in executing digital campaigns. With the launch of Spotify Ad Studio, this obstacle has been effectively eliminated. Spotify Ad Studio is the ultimate self-serve platform tailored for artists, labels, and managers. Experience unparalleled ease in crafting professional-grade audio or video ads like never before. What’s the highlight? Getting started doesn’t require a massive marketing budget. Crafting a Spotify ad is fast and effortless. Crafting an ad has never been easier! Simply choose the audio or video content you wish to promote, and effortlessly define your target audience using a range of customisable factors.

Genre preference
Listening behaviour
Age, gender, and location
Fan affinity and interests

Spotify provides complimentary voiceover options for your advertisements, ensuring accessibility for artists who might be working with a limited budget for professional recordings. Moreover, Spotify Ad Studio features an accessible learning curve, allowing anyone to dive in effortlessly, regardless of their previous experience in digital advertising. With these innovative tools, Spotify empowers independent artists to seamlessly engage in music advertising independently, allowing you to retain complete control over your campaigns and ensure they perfectly reflect your artistic vision.

3. Spotify Ads Drive Organic Growth Through Algorithmic Boost

Advertising on Spotify offers an incredible opportunity for independent musicians to achieve organic growth like never before. When a listener engages with your ad—whether by clicking through to your artist profile or saving your track—it sends a powerful message to Spotify’s algorithm that your music deserves to be showcased even more. This engagement can elevate your visibility and enhance your chances of being featured on algorithmically curated playlists, ultimately expanding your music audience.

The benefits of this include:

Getting added to algorithm-generated playlists
Attracting new followers to your Spotify artist profile
Generating repeat streams and listens
Reaching similar fans who are more likely to engage with your music

The true strength lies in the compounding effect of Spotify’s algorithm. Increased engagement with your music translates to higher recommendations for new listeners, initiating a powerful snowball effect that fosters ongoing organic growth. This creates a sustainable marketing strategy where each ad campaign doesn’t just boost short-term results, but builds long-term visibility and success within Spotify’s ecosystem.

4. Spotify Ads Are Affordable and Scalable for Indie Artists

A prevalent myth in the music industry is that successful advertising campaigns means you need substantial financial investment. Discover the unbeatable value of Spotify ads, where you can kick off your campaigns for just $250! Spotify’s user-friendly nature positions it as the perfect platform for independent artists eager to showcase their music without breaking the bank. Spotify ads offer remarkable scalability that can elevate your marketing strategy. No matter if you’re just starting out or have a solid reputation, you have the flexibility to tailor your advertising budget to align with your objectives.

Looking to boost your streams for your latest single? Are you aiming to elevate your tour promotion and spark engagement before the big event? With Spotify’s adaptable advertising budget options, you can effortlessly tailor your campaign to align perfectly with your unique requirements.
Moreover, Spotify offers comprehensive analytics that empower you to monitor performance and enhance your strategy. Discover the power of tracking essential metrics such as user interactions with your ad, the number of streams generated from your campaign, and the audience segments that showed the highest engagement. This information empowers you to refine your strategy, enhancing the effectiveness of each campaign beyond the previous one. Start small and watch your fanbase grow with Spotify advertising. This platform empowers independent artists to effectively manage their marketing budget while driving impressive results.

5. Spotify Advertising Complements Other Platforms Like TikTok, Instagram, and Facebook

Spotify advertising can AND SHOULD seamlessly integrate with your overall marketing strategy. By integrating it with platforms such as TikTok, Instagram, and Facebook, you can establish a dynamic, cross-platform promotional funnel that maximises your reach and impact. Every one of these platforms shines in unique ways, enabling you to engage audiences at multiple points along their journey as fans.

TikTok and Instagram excel at capturing attention through captivating, viral short-form content that resonates with audiences. From captivating trending videos to enticing teasers for your next big release, these platforms serve as the perfect stage to highlight your unique personality and generate buzz around your music. After capturing a user’s attention, effortlessly guide them to your Spotify profile, where they can enjoy your complete tracks, follow your artist page, and explore more of your music.

Facebook presents a distinct set of advantages that set it apart. Harness the power of Facebook to tap into its extensive user base, leverage precise targeting options, and seamlessly integrate with Instagram and other platforms. This is your opportunity to connect with new audiences and grow your fanbase like never before. Leverage the power of Facebook’s ecosystem to effectively promote your events, releases, or merchandise through targeted ads. Utilise retargeting strategies to guide interested users seamlessly to your Spotify page.

At Pink Lemonade Social, we specialise in Facebook and Instagram Ads. In today’s digital music landscape, advertising on platforms like Facebook and Instagram is crucial for musicians looking to grow their fanbase and elevate their brand. With millions of active users daily, both platforms offer precise targeting options, allowing musicians to reach the right audience based on age, interests, and listening habits. Whether you’re promoting a new single, announcing a tour, or engaging with fans, Facebook and Instagram’s advertising tools allow you to create highly targeted campaigns that drive traffic to your Spotify page, boost streams, and increase fan interaction. These platforms also support the creation of visually compelling ads that align with your unique style, helping you build an engaging and cohesive online presence. If you’re ready to take your music marketing to the next level, Pink Lemonade Social’s expert Music Marketing Services can help you craft a tailored advertising strategy that gets your music heard by the right audience and maximizes your impact on Facebook and Instagram, and Spotify.

Unlock the potential of integrating Spotify ads with Facebook ads to reach an audience that may not be as engaged on Instagram or TikTok, yet shows significant interaction on Facebook, particularly within niche groups and communities. For instance, Facebook provides the opportunity to engage with niche music communities or implement targeted advertising strategies to connect with individuals based on their musical tastes, interests, or behaviours. Integrating Facebook ads into your strategy allows you to craft a comprehensive funnel that guides listeners from their first encounter to lasting loyalty.

A strategically aligned, multi-channel campaign—where your message is consistently delivered across all platforms—guarantees that your audience enjoys a seamless experience no matter where they encounter your music. On platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and Facebook, the objective is to seize attention, boost traffic, and enhance engagement on your Spotify page, transforming casual viewers into loyal supporters.

By placing Spotify ads at the heart of your approach, you can create a seamless marketing ecosystem across various platforms, guaranteeing that you engage potential fans in their preferred spaces and facilitate effortless connections to your music.

Final Thoughts: Make Spotify Ads a Core Part of Your 2025-2026 Music Strategy

Spotify advertising for independent musicians is not merely a trend—it’s an essential tool for achieving success. With its user-friendly interface, capacity to enhance organic growth, cost-effective solutions, and effortless integration with various platforms, Spotify Ad Studio provides independent artists with all the essential tools to elevate their visibility and expand their fanbase.
Now is the perfect moment to elevate your brand and advance your music career by diving into Spotify Ad Studio. Utilise our intuitive, self-serve tools and advanced targeting capabilities to elevate your music promotion to a professional level—ensuring that 2025 – 2026 becomes your most successful year to date.

GET IN TOUCH!

Some of our Music Marketing experience includes

10 Most Instagrammable Places in Hokkaido

Marc B — Tue, 20 Jun 2023 10:57:49 +0000

10 Instagrammable Places in Hokkaido, Japan

Hokkaido (北海道 ) is one of the most popular places in Japan to visit for tourists, especially those interested in winter sports and onsen, but it also happens to be one prefecture that has an incredible array of natural landmarks and attractions that are sure to make anyone envious with wanderlust. Below you’ll find the roundup of the most Instagrammable places in Hokkaido that are a definite must see if you’re heading to the second largest island of Japan.

For more adventures in mainland Japan, make sure to check out some of the amazing experiences that are worthy of any bucket list!

Without further ado…

Shirogane Blue Pond

青い池

20 minutes by car from JR Biei Station or a two- and half-hour drive from Sapporo will get you to one of the most famous and beautiful views of Hokkaido; the Shirogane Blue Pond, more simply known as the Blue Pond and takes the #1 spot for the most Instagrammable places in Hokkaido..

Also known as Aoiike in Japanese, this picturesque place is actually man-made as a by-product of dam construction following the eruption of Mount Tokachi in 1988. The unbelievable blue colour is due to minerals in the lake – which means you can’t swim in it – but you can still enjoy incredible views across all four seasons – the most famous, winter and autumn. And best of all, it’s free!

biei-hokkaido.jp
Shirogane, 美瑛町 Biei, Kamikawa District, Hokkaido 071-0235, Japan

Takino Reien

頭大仏殿（Hill of the Buddha）

World famous architect Tadao Ando asked himself “How does a statue become a more solemn, attractive figure?” and his answer was the creation of Hill of the Buddha; the symbol of Makomanai Takino Cemetery where the giant Buddha statue is surrounded by a hill of lavender with just the head poking out.

Although stunning in all seasons, the Buddha surrounded by lavender is best viewed in July, or in winter when covered in snow. The concept of showcasing hidden depths is perfectly captured and portrayed, and easily one of the most beautiful places in Hokkaido to add to your insta feed.

takinoreien.com
2-3 Takino, Minami Ward, Sapporo, Hokkaido 005-0862, Japan

Takinoue Park Shibazakura

芝ざくら滝上公園

From early May to early June, the small town of Takinoue transforms into one of the most Instagrammable places in Hokkaido, Japan. Shibazakura, also known as moss pink, moss phlox or creeping phlox blooms, transforming the landscape into a sea of pink, purple and white. In other places in Japan, notably near Mount Fuji in Yamanashi Prefecture, you can also see Shibazakura but in Takinoue you can stroll through millions of beautiful flowers over 100,000 square meters. It’s a small town without a train station, so it will take a threeand a half-hour drive from Sapporo – but don’t worry there’s plenty of other things to see in do in the area!

town.takinoue.hokkaido.jp
Motomachi, Takinoue, Monbetsu District, Hokkaido 099-5604, Japan

Sapporo Factory

サッポロファクトリー

The Sapporo Factory is a shopping and entertainment complex in downtown Sapporo which is made up of four large buildings. Originally the Sapporo Brewey in 1879 it is now a popular place for eating, shopping and the Sapporo Kaitakushi Brewery where you can observe the brewing process and taste a damn good beer!

As well as some stellar fine dining and standard restaurants, there is also a wine cellar and beer hall – but if you’re looking for the most photogenic spots then it’s definitely the outside of the buildings, where it changes appearance across seasons – again, autumn being my favourite!

sapporofactory.jp
4 Chome Kita 2 Johigashi, Chuo Ward, Sapporo, Hokkaido 060-0032

Snow Crystal Museum

雪の美術館

Located in the middle of Hokkaido on the outskirts of Asahikawa and housed within the Hokkaido Traditional Arts & Crafts Village is the mesmerising Snow Crystal Museum. Like a scene out of Beauty and the Beast crossed with Frozen, the European style building surrounded by snow is simply captivating.

Easily one of the most Instagrammable spots in Hokkaido, you will be captivated from the luxe spiralling staircase to the Snow Crystal Museum which is decorated with countless snow crystals and snowflakes. Making your way into ‘The Hallway of Ice’ allows you a closer look at the surrounding ice structures that are constantly changing in the -15 degree Celsius weather outside. Relive your Beauty & the Beast or Frozen fantasies in this one-of-a-kind museum.

yukibi.marryblossom.com
3 Chome-1-1 Minamigaoka, Asahikawa, Hokkaido 070-8028, Japan

Daisetsuzan National Park

大雪山

Spanning over 2000 square kilometres, smack bang in the middle of Hokkaido is Japan’s largest national park, Daisetsuzan National Park – and 100% is easily one of the most Instagrammable places in Hokkaido.
With several mountains surrounding Mt. Daisetsu, some of which are active volcanoes, this unspoiled wilderness is a paradise for outdoorsy types, hikers and nature lovers. Whether you want to hike and snap away or catch the cable car followed by the chairlift to the summit, there are endless ways and opportunities to get all the shots you need for your feed. There’s no better way to finish off your trip to Daisetsuzan National Park than by soaking in one of the numerous onsen in the hot spring towns located in the foothills of the area.

env.go.jp/park/daisetsu/
Yukomanbetsu, Higashikawa, Kamikawa District, Hokkaido Prefecture 071-1472

Mount Yotei

蝦夷富士

Located in Shikotsu-Toya National Park, Mount Yotei is an active stratovolcano roughly 3 hours from Sapporo – but don’t worry, the last eruption was roughly 6,000 years ago. Also known as Yezo Fuji or Ezo Fuji, Mount Yotei has garnered this nickname based off the old name for the island of Hokkaido (Ezo), due to its resemblance to Mount Fuji.

As one of the tallest peaks in Hokkaido, rising to 1,898 meters, Mount Yotei dominates the skyline of the Niseko Valley and overlooks the largest of Hokkaido’s ski resorts, Rusutsu. If you’re up for hiking there are four trails to the top, generally taking around 4-6 hours. If you’re not up for the hike or venturing out into the cold weather, being a single mountain you can get a 360 degree uninterrupted view anywhere – win-win!

Mount Yōtei, Kawanishi Kutchan, Abuta District, Hokkaido 044-0131 Japan

Lake Toya

洞爺湖

Located in Shikotsu-Toya National Park and attributed as one of the three great landscapes of Hokkaido, Lake Toya is also the ninth biggest lake in Japan.

Formed from volcanic activity, this large donut-shaped lake is free to enjoy and one of the most picturesque places to enjoy scenic and stunning views of the surrounding mountains. The Shikotsu-Toya National Park is a part of the “Toya Caldera and Usu Volcano Global Geopark” and the surrounding region features several onsen, as well as the perfect place for outdoor adventures including camping, hiking and fishing.

laketoya.com
Toyakonsen, Toyako-cho Abuta-gun, Hokkaido, 049-5721, Japan

Sapporo Snow Festival

さっぽろ雪まつり

Probably one of the most notable festivals in Japan and definitely one of the most instagrammable places in Hokkaido is the Sapporo Snow Festival – blending creativity with the winter dreamland of Hokkaido. Think sand sculptures are cool, wait till see you massive ice sculptures that take your breath away!

In 2020, the Sapporo Snow Festival will begin Friday 31 January and end on Wednesday 12 February – and it’s absolutely worth visiting, along with the other 2 million people from Japan and abroad that travel to attend the largest winter festival in Japan. Snow statues, ice sculptures, illuminations and interactive events – there’s so much to enjoy. The Snow Festival is held across three primary locations, Odori Avenue (Odori Park), Susukino, and Tsudome, which are all easy to get to so you don’t have to worry about missing out on anything.

snowfes.com
Odori Ave, Chūō-ku, Sapporo, Hokkaido, Japan

Cape Kamui

神威岬

A 2-hour drive from Sapporo is the stunning seaside of Cape Kamui on the Shakotan Peninsula. This is the perfect place for 360 degree panoramic views of the peninsula and the sea called ”Shakotan Blue” which is a popular tourist attraction noted for the jutting steep precipes that protrude into the deep sea.

With a thrilling 800m walking trail that extends to the tip of the cape, the easy hike will take roughly 20-30 minutes each way providing you with refreshing sea breezes and striking views of the clear blue sea. Arriving in the car park provides one of the best vantage points for Instagram snaps, and visitng in the afternoon offers mesmerising sunset views.

Kamui-misaki, Kozakicho, Shakotan-cho, Shakotan-gun 046-0321, Hokkaido

Even if you’re not a winter person like me (I could live in summer weather all year round), you have to admit that Japan, and in particular Hokkaido has some of the most amazing places to see. If you want to discover more amazing places in Japan you check out my other Japan articles here!

Save this article by pinning it, and adding it to your bucket list!

Thanks for reading my fellow avid traveller…

Xx Marc

Sourced Images

Shirogane Blue Pond
Right -© Instagram/amakakeru1127
Left – © Instagram/dionjonathn

Sapporo Factory
Top left – © Instagram/kanco_m
Top right – © Instagram/masa2833
Right – © Instagram/marirink0809
Bottom right – © Instagram/tarbo1978
Bottom left – © Instagram/mimichan4646

Mount Yotei
Top left – © Instagram/kiniseko
Top right – © Instagram/martinotirelli
Left – © Instagram/fortch
Bottom right – © Instagram/loveniseko
Bottom left – © Instagram/shoko0118i

Takino Reien
Top left – © Instagram/bombrack
Top right – © Instagram/craycray_carly
Right – © Instagram/capkaieda
Bottom right – © Instagram/93kumi93
Bottom left – © Instagram/claudiuslauder

Snow Crystal Museum
Top left – © Instagram/tellevamosmx
Top right – © Instagram/tsumizo
Right – © Zekkei Japan
Bottom right – © Instagram/leisypeisy

Daisetsuzan National Park
Top left – © Instagram/hoshinoresorts_magazine
Top right – © Instagram/oka_photo
Right – © Instagram/cyaruwaffle
Lower right – © Instagram/suparuj
Lower left – © Instagram/hideaki_hanaoka
Bottom right – © Instagram/kaylegordon
Bottom left – © Instagram/tracking.trout

Lake Toya
Top left – © Instagram/suz_toya
Top right – © Instagram/yunhoshinki
Right – © Instagram/xabibarreneche
Bottom right – © Instagram/y.kato.beta
Bottom left – © Instagram/10ryu16

Takinoue Park Shibazakura
Top left – © Instagram/tellevamosmx
Top right – © Instagram/tsumizo
Right – © Zekkei Japan
Bottom right – © Instagram/leisypeisy

Sapporo Snow Festival
Top left – © Instagram/demidemi_0410
Top right – © Instagram/mrmchonen
Left – © Instagram/tokyo_one
Bottom left © Instagram/visitjapan.us
Bottom right – © Instagram/visitjapan.us

Cape Kamui
Top left – © Instagram/katsudanna
Top right – © Instagram/urlaubsguru
Right – © Instagram/tripnote.jp
Bottom right – © Instagram/journeybeer
Bottom left – © Instagram/sazzannka

The Best Kanye West Albums Ranked: The Vinyl Collectors List (2023)

Marc B — Wed, 10 May 2023 00:52:46 +0000

The Best Kanye West Albums Ranked: The Vinyl Collectors List (2023)

Kanye West has taken on more hats than any other rapper on the planet since breaking out on the hip-hop scene with Slow Jamz about 20 years ago. But he didn’t always have an easy path to success. He battled for signings until landing deals with Roc A Fella Records and Def Jam Recordings. No hip-hop record collection, nor vinyl collection, would be complete without at least one Kanye record, despite the fact that in 2022 he made it even harder by releasing Donda 2 only on Stem Player. Many people are still eagerly awaiting fresh releases, though. So this is the ideal opportunity to relax, drop a needle, and reacquaint ourselves with his extensive vinyl back catalogue and ensuring your collection is rounded out with an album by Ye.

Kanye West is unquestionably one of the most highly regarded Hip-hop musicians of all time, having sold more than 160 million records and winning 24 Grammy Awards. In addition, American rapper is well-known for his controversies, pop persona, clothing line (most notably the Yeezy sneakers), and a variety of other things.

There is no middle ground when it comes to Kanye West; you either love him or you hate him. Most people would find it difficult to minimise West’s accomplishments as a musician, despite the fact that he consistently damages his reputation.

Eleven studio albums, two compilation albums, four mixtapes, and one video album are among the discography of this American rapper and record producer. One could argue that the mysterious producer-turned-rapper is among the most significant modern artists working today, and his body of work speaks for itself. West began his professional life as a producer in the music industry.. As news of his futuristic approach to beatmaking spread, he quickly moved up the hip-hop food chain. West was able to become one of the most sought-after producers in the world thanks to this approach. Even though he had great success in the office, West’s ultimate goal was to become a rapper. Despite people’s reservations about his ability to make the transition, West did it with apparent ease.

Kanye is an artist who has repeatedly shown that you can never write off a great innovator, even though his most recent releases have been a little off the mark, critically and commercially, as this list refers to. Fans adored and appreciated his authenticity after 2004’s College Dropout. West consistently creates albums that are ooze with artistic honesty and are always challenging. Both ardent supporters and fervent detractors have praised his creative and frequently boundary-pushing manner. However, there is no doubting that West is a musical force to be feared. His discography is a crucial addition to any collection for vinyl fans. His debut album, The College Dropout, instantly became a classic thanks to its soulful production, sampled sounds, and tragic and hilarious lyrics. The highly acclaimed Late Registration, which saw West experimenting with new sounds and expanding the definition of what rap might be, came next.

2008’s 808s & Heartbreak is maybe Kanye West’s most divisive album. West abandoned traditional rapping for auto-tuned crooning on this experimental album, creating a sound that was unheard of in hip-hop. While some fans objected to the change in sound, others applauded West for taking such a risk.

Whatever your feelings on Kanye West, he is unquestionably one of the most significant and influential figures in hip hop right now and his discography is a crucial component of any collection for vinyl enthusiasts.

Counting down from 10, these are the best Kanye West albums to add to your vinyl collection.

10 Best Kanye West Albums Ranked

10. JESUS IS KING (2019)

A year after Ye’s darkness, West experienced an evident religious reawakening. Kanye’s strange move to the realm of Christian hip-hop made choosing tenth place on this list simple. Whatever you may think, the record doesn’t quite have the same impact as the rest of his work. At the Billboard Music Awards, the album won for Top Christian album and Top Gospel album, therefore it’s safe to conclude that the artist’s second (or, based on his discography, 12th) coming is soon to be released. Jesus is King has similar problems to DONDA; it doesn’t feel entirely finished. One of Kanye’s most epic and triumphant tracks, “Use This Gospel” had the potential to be both. The album has its moments in the spotlight, despite the record’s absence of percussion. The guitar line in “Water” is hypnotic and transports you, while “Follow God” is classic soul. On the album, there are few spots where West displays production brilliance, but most of the time, he misses the mark. In general, it has the least amount of replay value of any Ye album.

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9. DONDA (2021)

The album “Donda” combines the raucous contemporary blare of “Yeezus” with the joyous Gospel melancholy of “Jesus Is King.” Surprisingly, Donda features 27 tracks that last for an hour and 48 minutes, plus four “pt 2” remixes. In Donda, Kanye West considers how his relationship with God helps him to be a little more reflective. The LP’s enormous tracklisting (27 songs), lengthy playing time (just under two hours), abundance of features and team-ups, and expansive scope make it somewhat difficult to handle. Later on in the album, several songs feature second portions, and the overall sound spans from the autotune pop of 808s and Heartbreaks to the minimal, bare-bones edge of Yeezus. The album would have benefited significantly from being cut down, with the excess of guests being replaced by Kanye honed in on his relationship with his mother.

Donda is a lot, to start with. Unruly production, too many tracks, and slurred voices. However, there’s something triumphant-feeling about the album.. Songs like “Heaven and Hell,” “Praise God,” and “Jesus is Lord” skilfully blend secular and religious elements in a way that Ye hadn’t done before. One of the best hits songs is “Hurricane.” The chef’s kiss is the Lauryn Hill sample from “Believe What I Say.” DaBaby and Marilyn Manson are both featured in the song “Jail, Pt. 2,” which some people perceive as a protest against the cancel culture. Despite all the ambiguity, Kanye’s infamous joke bars hit Donda hard. But compared to his previous two albums, he raps much better on songs like “Lord I Need You” and “Off the Grid.” The songs “Believe What I Say,” “Pure Souls,” and “Hurricane” sound like genuine smashes that have received more radio play than he has in years.

Whether you like it or not, Donda will always be linked to the album’s release because its advertising activities literally shaped how the album was created. The plot is now well known to everyone: After hosting a release party in Atlanta, Kanye continued to work on the album underground in Mercedes-Benz Stadium rather than releasing it straight away. Ye and his team proceeded to make revisions to the album for weeks, paying great heed to fan comments and even asking members of a Kanye West fan Discord community about tiny changes to particular tracks. Eventually, they had three livestreamed listening parties before releasing the album. As he went through various takes of each song and switched up the sequencing, he allowed listeners in on the creative process. Donda’s legacy will be linked to its public rounds of alterations before its release, unlike The Life of Pablo, which will be remembered for the changes Kanye made after releasing it on streaming services.

So, was the experiment successful? Sort of. It serves as a sort of comeback album for Kanye. He is rapping significantly better than he did on his previous two albums, Ye and Jesus Is King, on tracks like “Lord I Need You” and “Off the Grid.” Additionally, he gets the best verses from his fellow artists, including outstanding contributions from Jay Electronica and Fivio Foreign. And the production is superb throughout, just like on every other Kanye album. Simply said, Donda has really high highs. However, the absence of editing is where the record falls short. Kanye decided not to condense the album’s tracklist after holding all of the focus group listening sessions. Instead, he provided all of his music to the public, including alternate takes of four songs. Due to this, the album contains a few skips (“24” and “Tell the Vision” among them), and at almost two hours, it occasionally loses its concentration. Yet Donda is a fantastic album that demonstrates what Kanye is still capable of, but its shortcomings prevent it from rising to the top of his discography.

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8. YE (2018)

“Ye” represented Kanye at his most erratic. Visiting the hospital. Bipolar disorder diagnosis. Exile in Wyoming. A lean yet gorgeous project was the result of those Wyoming recording sessions. Ye only has a running time of a little over 23 minutes, but West packs a lot of passion and fire into it at the start before losing the momentum and lurching into mediocrity. There are parts of the album that may have been made into a masterpiece; yet, ultimately, Ye veers too far into self-indulgent terrain. “No Mistakes” and “Yikes” are blistering efforts.

Artists who venture into this realm have produced some legendary records, but the high-risk approach doesn’t always pay off. Ye has no quality filter, and the album’s last tracks, “Ghost Town” and “Violent Crimes,” show this.

The album as a whole feels much longer than it actually is, and that is never a good thing. “Ye” remains in the bottom half of the rankings due to its length and the absence of any truly outstanding songs.

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7. 808’s & Heartbreaks (2008)

Before releasing “808s & Heartbreak”, West had a mouthwatering trifecta of records in his arsenal. With his fourth record, though, West took a chance that mainly paid out. He continued to move on and created an album that would shape hip-hop for the ensuing ten years. West’s canon is so strong, nevertheless, that it will have to settle for seventh place.

There is no denying the record’s brave aim and, of course, the fact that it began a new chapter in his career. West wanted to play with melody since he no longer wanted to solely rap; yet, 808s & Heartbreak would herald the beginning of an exciting era for Kanye rather than its apex.

The twelve songs on 808s & Heartbreak, which he describes as “therapeutic,” deal with the difficulties of loneliness, bereavement, and pain. Some of the singles on 808s are suitable for radio, but the majority of it is rather peculiar. While some people may not enjoy it, others who have listened to it several times will be awed by West’s brilliance.

The Roland TR-808 drum machine, which is heard throughout the entire album, served as the inspiration for the title. Key tracks on 808s & Heartbreak include Heartless, Say You Will, and Love Lockdown. With a mix of talking, rapping, and harmonies, West’s vocals are warm and emotive. To make his tracks, Kanye frequently combines sounds like vocal samples, percussion rhythms, and electronica.

Although 808’s stands out in Kanye’s legacy, it once again demonstrates his capacity to evolve with each new endeavour. Kanye spent months or even years incubating his first three albums, plagued by frequent delays and protracted sessions of editing and reediting tracks. 808s, on the other hand, was conceived, recorded, and released in under three weeks. The outcomes caused some controversy among both critics and listeners, but the sombre, brooding 808s & Heartbreak is still a must-have record, if only to commemorate this pivotal moment in Ye’s career.

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6. THE LIFE OF PABLO (2016)

In some ways, “The Life of Pablo” may be viewed as Yeezus’ sister album. This 2016 West album is even messier than its predecessor and manages to be both purposefully challenging to listen to and still contain a number of jewels. On the album, West pushes boundaries once more, and songs like “No More Parties in LA” are right up there with anything he’s ever produced. The record does, however, have an inevitable coherence because West takes great pleasure in making it as twisted as possible—divine one minute, gloomy as hell the next. The Life of Pablo has a casual vibe to it due to his propensity to never finish anything. He never stayed put when the album was being recorded. However, despite the fact that the entire album was not yet finished, Kanye held a listening party at Madison Square Garden in February 2016 and charged the fans $160 per ticket to attend.

Fans were perplexed by the album’s title and wondered which “Pablo” Kanye was alluding to. Picasso? Escobar? But in reality, it was Paul the Apostle. Prior to the album’s release, West compared himself to one of Jesus’ 12 disciples who rose to fame as a well-known advocate for Christianity in a series of tweets. Although it was nothing new for West to compare himself to historical figures, pointing out a similarity in the guy he referred to on Twitter as “the most powerful messenger of the first century” undoubtedly raised some eyes.

Back to the album, The Life of Pablo has 20 songs and lasts for 66 minutes. The most notable songs include Wolves (Feat. Sia, Caroline Shaw, and Frank Ocean), FML (Feat. The Weeknd), Waves (Feat. Chris Brown), Ultra Light Beam (Feat. Chance the Rapper), and No More Parties in LA (Feat. Kendrick Lamar).

I predict that this one will spark the greatest controversy. Many of the younger Kanye fans, in my observation, rank Pablo rather high on their lists. In my opinion, TLOP represents the period in Kanye’s career that the old Ye left and the new Ye emerged. I do enjoy this album. Don’t misunderstand me. To me, “Ultralight Beam,” “30 Hours,” and “Father Stretch My Hands” are all masterpieces. ON A KANYE TRACK, WE FOUND MADLIB AND KENDRICK. Why not adore it? Just bloated, that’s all. There is no need for songs like “Frank’s Track,” “Silver Surfer,” “Lowlights,” or “I Miss the Old Kanye.” The album has won many over subsequently, but as we move down the list, it is nowhere near the best Kanye West albums.

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5. YEEZUS (2013)

Prior to the release of Yeezus, West was the biggest music star on the planet, and he demonstrated with this album why he was the most infamous. He invited artists from all corners of the musical spectrum to work on Yeezus, including James Blake, Justin Vernon of Bon Iver, Travis Scott, Frank Ocean, and many others, who all contributed to the success of this genre-defying composition. On the album, West demonstrated his continued ability to be innovative and to set the standard for all other musicians. West exhibited a brand-new side and embraced a more aggressive sound than ever before, which divided opinion and was even viewed as commercial suicide by some because there was no conventional radio hit on the album. Yet Kanye West’s indulgent side drastically paid off because he was aware that the days of radio were quickly going away.

Yeezus marked the start of Kanye’s new era. The irate Kanye who aimed to shatter the industry’s glass ceiling. The Kanye who had just released ” My Beautiful, Dark, Twisted Fantasy” (a phenomenal album), wanted to create music that required effort to comprehend. ‘You can’t control me’, Kanye’s mission statement at the time was laid out in songs like “Black Skinhead” and “New Slaves.” Kanye’s best work may be “Blood on the Leaves” and “Guilt Trip” is by far the most under-appreciated song he has ever released.

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4. LATE REGISTRATION (2005)

We are now approaching the core of the list of the Best Kanye West Albums. Could “Late Registration” be the best second album in a performer’s catalogue? Quite likely. The storyline from “The College Dropout” is continued in Kanye’s follow-up album featuring 21 tracks and clocking in at just over 70 minutes. Some of West’s biggest songs are on this album, including “Gold Digger,” “Heard em Say,” and “Touch the Sky.” It’s hard to imagine the pressure on Kanye to try to surpass the success of The College Dropout, but Late Registration is a stunning work of art even though many don’t think he did.

Thanks in part to West’s collaboration with producer Job Brion, this Kanye West album is more mature than his first album The College Dropout and debuted at number one on the Billboard 200. The production is more in-depth and wonderfully arranged. Above all, the multi-platinum album included performers like Jamie Foxx, Adam Levine, Nas, The Game, Common, Jay-Z, and Nas. This album is elevated even further by tracks like the Grammy-winning “Diamonds from Sierra Leone,” the number-one, platinum-selling “Gold Digger,” the gold-selling “Heard ‘Em Say (feat. Adam Levine),” and “Touch the Sky” (feat. Lupe Fiasco). Kanye West also achieved his first Billboard Hot 100 #1 with “Gold Digger,” which he held for nine weeks.

More so than he did on his debut album, Kanye grows musically and lyrically on this record. In addition, he demonstrated maturity and the real deal. Late Registration is a masterclass from West that is dopamine-inducing and will take you on a thrilling voyage that is hard to come by as a listener.

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3. GRADUATION (2007)

“Graduation”, one of the best Kanye West albums, has 13 songs and lasts for almost 51 minutes, and will be found within the top rankings of all Kanye albums. Graduation also remains the best selling Kanye West album to date. Kanye’s artistic influence is undeniably extremely great across the entire record. The mega successful song “Stronger”, which has a heavier electronic feel, heavily samples the vocals from Daft Punk’s Harder, Better, Faster, Stronger. Both “Flashing Lights” and “Can’t Tell Me Nothing” sound fantastic together. On the other side, others claim that this album established the direction hip-hop went after gangsta rap was put an end to. More synthetic sounds are combined with soulful samples, pianos, horns, powerful basses, and a variety of backing vocals by Kanye, each of which adds something distinctive to the record.

Kanye is at his most powerful on Graduation; not yet scarred by his own deeds or the environment around him. Confident but exposed. Thrilled, but still ravenous. Arena status. Although Graduation was a great hit, its music was much more impressive. The track “Good Life” is another among a long list of hits and standards as well as massively uplifting songs like “The Glory”, and soulful classics like “Everything I Am.”

Notably, Curtis by 50 Cent and Graduation were both released simultaneously. Both albums broke sales records as a result of the competition, although West ultimately sold more copies. This victory represented Kanye’s ultimate victory against the “gangsta” rap stigma that had constrained him in the beginning of his career. The album covers created by Takashi Murakami are still recognisable today, and the lyrics often contain humorous puns. To be clear, the production of this record is what truly jumps out. The legacy of this album ages well.

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2. THE COLLEGE DROPOUT (2004)

Before we get to “The College Dropout” there’s a bit of background. Late in the 1990s, Kanye West started making a name for himself as a producer. After helping out on Jay-Z’s “The Blueprint” in 2001, he steadily ascended to the top of the beat scene. West still had trouble getting a record deal since he didn’t fit the standard mould of the era’s rappers (think DMX and 50 Cent). Before requesting to buy The College Dropout’s beats to use with other rappers, label executives would request to hear the tracks that would later make up the album’s core. After shopping his album around, West decided to sign with Roc-A-Fella in order to keep from changing labels. Despite the rocky beginnings of their collaboration, both parties later reaped the rewards by producing a four-time Platinum album and one of the most important rap records of the twenty-first century.

After Kanye’s debut solo album, The College Dropout was published with 21 tracks and a runtime of 76 minutes. One of Kanye Wests best albums, songs like “All Falls Down” and “Jesus Walks” began to play on the radio and the album went on to sell over 3.3 million copies. It received 10 nominations for the 2005 Grammy Awards, winning three (Best Rap Album, Best Rap Song, “Jesus Walks,” and Best Rap Collaboration, “Slow Jamz feat. Twista and Jamie Foxx”). Killer tracks include “Two Worlds” and “Never Let Me Down”. The project provided hip-hop a new voice in addition to outstanding accolades and album sales.

Without a question, Kanye West’s The College Dropout is a fantastic album that is at the top of any list, and is a must-have for a vinyl collection. Not many artists could debut with a record like this. Due to the wide range of directions that The College Dropout opened for musicians, it is difficult to pinpoint its singularity throughout the history of hip-hop. Even after 18 years, it continues to be a classic.

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1. MY BEAUTIFUL, DARK, TWISTED FANTASY (2010)

No matter what genre of music you prefer, “My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy” is widely regarded as the definitive Kanye album and the diamond in the crown of any vinyl collection and features some of Kanye West’s best songs. The record captures Kanye at his best: confident but sensitive, extravagant but grounded, and using rigors production methods that occasionally give way to moments of bare candour. The outcome? A flawlessly produced, no-skip masterpiece of an album. If you have any doubts about Kanye West’s genius, you have probably already quit reading; but, if you still have any doubts, this album will satisfy your curiosity.

It’s all too usual these days for West to speak the talk rather than walk the walk. However, he clearly delivers the goods in this instance. The album has a subtextually biblical atmosphere, as West shatters conventional boundaries on each and every one of its brilliant tracks. Undoubtedly, it is a pop album, but like all the best pop music, Kanye wasn’t actively seeking commercial success; instead, the chart had migrated to him.

It’s a swaggering effort that still serves as the barometer for his career and represents the development of West’s changing sound over the course of his first four records. This show-stopping piece of art went on to become Kanye’s magnum opus.

According to reports, the song “My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy” cost $3 million to produce and features actual strings, horns, and top-tier guest performers including Jay-Z, Beyonce, Alicia Keys, and Bon Iver. After the infamous VMA event, he felt like he had something to prove. He lost the public’s trust that he had gained. What did he then do? He produced one of the greatest hip-hop albums ever.

Kanye threw himself into the music wholeheartedly while holed up in a Hawaii recording studio alongside the hip-hop greats who had inspired him, like RZA, Q-Tip, Pete Rock, and his most alluring contemporaries, including Rick Ross, Nicki Minaj, and even Jay Z. His goal was to create an unquestionable work of art that would transcend all of his alleged errors and re-establish his importance to the culture. He was successful, too. His twisted story is articulated in My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy, which also lines up and briefly addresses all of his critics and opponents. His is a skill that must be dealt with, a talent we must appreciate and be grateful for, as the album’s unashamedly triumphal first single “Power” makes clear. On “Gorgeous” and “Lost in the World” (and its outro), he goes deeper into his sentiments of rejection and alienation from America, musing more generally on the social milieu that expelled him before veering back to himself and his private life. Kanye’s most monstrous inclinations are humanised as he sorts out his love through songs like “Runaway” and “Blame Game,” which straddle the line between the crude and the refined, the frank and the grotesque.

In an interview with the New York Times prior to the release of the album “Yeezus,” Kanye referred to My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy as “my big, backhanded apology” and “the album where I gave people what they wanted.”

We could go on and on discussing all the wonderful things about this record, but we don’t have that much time. Nothing else has a similar sound. No other item ever will. It has some of West’s best production, rapping, and presentation.

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Okay, that’s it. Add his vinyls to your cart, get spinning and play each of these albums in order now. If you’re a careful purchaser, stream Kanye West on Spotify before deciding which vinyl records to add to your collection!

Let me know what you think about this ranking or albums in general, leave a comment below!

Takachiho Gorge – the Ultimate Guide to the Most Beautiful Waterfall in Japan

Marc B — Mon, 21 Nov 2022 10:00:54 +0000

Warning! This Waterfall at Takachiho Gorge Will Make You Book at Trip to Japan!

Takachiho Gorge, Miyazaki, Japan

Does the perfect place really does exist? Are the most mesmerizing waterfalls in Japan? Well Takachiho Gorge (高千穂峡) in the lush Miyazaki Prefecture of Kyushu will make you want to put all your travel plans on hold, and book a ticket to straight to Japan! Designated as National Place of Scenic Beauty, Takachiho Gorge is one of the most breathtaking natural attractions in Kyushu, as well as the whole of Japan – the waterfall pouring down over the iconic rowboats that slowly roam throughout the chasm.

Nestled in a steep gorge forged from an eruption of Mt. Aso volcano, Manai Falls (the actual name for the waterfall) are the most captivating cascades you will see in Japan, with the walk through the gorge no less than breathtaking.

The Gokase river runs through the 7-kilometre-long gorge reaching up to 100 metres in height giving you plenty of photo spots to capture the most picturesque photos of the gorge that resembles a dragon snaking its way through lush green foliage. The photos alone should do enough to convince you go!

Takachiho Gorge Itinerary

As a must-see attraction when visiting the Kyushu region of Japan, it’s best to plan ahead and get most out of your time there. The basic itinerary when visiting Takachiho Gorge includes:

Arrive at Takachiho Gorge.
Discover/Walk to the Manai Waterfall (30 minutes)
Boating in Takachiho Gorge (30 minutes) – need to book ahead
Eat Nagashi Somen / Catch Flowing Water Noodles For Lunch (30-40 minutes)
If you want to spend extra time in the area you can also:
Hike the Kyushu Nature Trail (30 minutes)
Visit Takachiho Shrine (高千穂神社, Takachiho Jinja) (30 minutes)

Walking to Takachiho Gorge

Whether you arrive by bus or drive there, you will ost likely start out from the Takachiho Bus Center, just outside the town centre. The walk from the town centre to the gorge is roughly 30 minutes. The path to the gorge continues to descend gently to the Takahiho shrine, providing excellent views along the way. Remember when leaving, or when you arrive, to check out the Machinaka Tourist Information Center directly across the street from the Takachiho Bus Center. Not only can you get some unique gifts you can also pick-up important information or brochures for attractions in the region.

We walked down the lengthy winding road to the gorge after passing through the relatively quiet streets. If you choose to visit the Takachiho Shrine on the way, it takes about 15 minutes, with signs indicating how far you have to go. On the walk through the gorge you will be blown away by the incredible surroundings; the chasm was formed around 90,000 years ago when the Mount Aso volcano erupted. The pyroclastic flow that had been flowing across the Gokase River had abruptly cooled and in turn producing the stunning columnar rock formations with organ pipe-like characteristics.

The the serene blue-green Gokase river cuts through the canyon providing a spectacular contrast, culminating with the water cascades falling from the cliff’s edge creating one of the most breathtaking views and a memorable natural experiences in Japan.

After visiting the falls, we took a leisurely stroll down to the Takachiho Promenade. There is a viewing point along the walkway where you can see the rowboats and the rush of the falls straight down to the river. This wooden observation deck is another great place to take in Manai’s famous views and interesting rock formations. It’s impossible to describe how beautiful the vista is and photos still don’t do it justice. Along the promenade, there are a few unique locations that you can’t miss. Kihachi no Chikaraishi, a massive boulder reported to be 3 metres tall and 200 tonnes in weight. Kihachi was a demon who was notorious for his bad activities, according to folklore. When ancient gods in Japan came after Kahachi, he threw this massive stone. There are quite a few myths surrounding Takachiho gorge, and it’s commonly referred to as the gorge where Gods live. Another location to check out on the walk is the Yaritobi Birdge that spreads across the narrowest part of the Gokase River.

Discover Minainotaki Waterfall

At the end of the walk through gorge you’ll arrive at the sheer cliffs where the 17 meter high Minainotaki waterfall cascade down to the river below. Surrounded by a background of lush foliage and grey cliffs it’s truly impressive.

The gorge can be viewed from two different angles that provide the best photo opportunities. The first method involves rowing down the river from below. The river is calm and easy to navigate, and rental boats are available near the south end of the gorge. The cliffs and waterfall may be seen up close and personal on this highly recommended route, but it does come with a fee. Walking along the paved walkway that runs along the brink of the gorge provides the second perspective, which is from above. Beautiful views can be seen all along the walk, and at some spots you can see almost straight down to the river below. The walk continues for nearly a kilometre before arriving at Takachiho Shrine.

There are a few more attractions near the gorge’s southern end, such as a freshwater aquarium, a stocked fishing pond, and a few restaurants and gift shops. During the summer, the gorge is lighted until 22:00 so if you can visit at night you’ll be in for an amazing sight.

Takachiho Gorge Boats

One of the must-do things in Takachiho Gorge is paddling around in a boat through the profound volcanic canyon. Boat rides are the best way to see the gorge, but you can only row within an approx. 200m area. When I visited the Takachiho Boats cost ¥2000 for 30 minutes with a max of 3 people per boat, yet in recent years this has jumped to ¥3000 which is nearly $40 AUD. If you do want to jump in a boat GO EARLY! The rental hours are 8.30am-4.30pm and you can expect to wait a few hours if you don’t go early. You can get more information on Takachiho Boat rentals here.

If you have a tight budget or aren’t sure if it’s worth it, remember you can simply see everything from the walkways and viewing platforms and still have an extraordinary encounter without hacking up $ for the boat rental. If you skip the boats, you will also save a few hours from waiting, which you can use to visit other places in the region.

Catch the Flowing Water Somen Noodles

After viewing the falls we decided to explore the promenade and maybe grab a quick snack. If you’re hungry or simply want to try a one-of-a-kind dining experience then make sure you try the Nagashi Somen Noodles (流しそうめん). Nagashi Somen Noodles are the most well-known and popular dish and were actually invented here in the 1950s at the Chiho no Ie Teahouse (千穂の家) so make sure to try out this signature local speciality. It’s quirky and fun to try and catch the somen noodles as they flow down the bamboo, and they actually taste great! Somen are thin and white noodles made from wheat flour and are generally eaten cold or dipped in cold broth. A set meal will cost you ¥1200, or ¥1700 with grilled fish in the set menu.

Planning Your Trip to Takachiho Gorge

How to Get to Takachiho Gorge

I drove to the gorge, and trust me, it’s a lot better than wasting most of your day waiting for and catching a bus there and back. If you’re driving to the gorge you have more freedom with your time and you can also stop at various scenic places along the way such as Mt Aso and Reidaikyo Bridge (below). If you’re getting to Takachiho Gorge via public transport make sure to allocate your time wisely and give yourself enough time to get back to Takachiho Station.

Driving to Takachiho Gorge

While you can stay in Miyazaki, it’s far more typical to stay in Fukuoka (Kyushu’s largest city) or Kumamoto. If you are staying in either of those locations, you should rent a car for the day or, like I did, for the duration of your trip on Kyushu Island. Apart from the lines to and from the larger cities, having a car made it very easy to visit all of the amazing natural sights, since there wasn’t much in the way of public transportation. For the most part, getting to remote waterfalls or volcanoes is done on a tour or by car.

Takachiho Gorge from Fukuoka: It takes roughly 3 hours to travel 178 kilometres from Fukuoka City to Takachiho Gorge. You could make a few stops along the route to break up the journey (like we did) but it will unavoidably be long.

Takachiho Gorge from Kumamoto: If you want to visit Takachiho Gorge, Kumamoto is a closer place to start. It’s a 77-kilometer drive from Kumamoto that takes 1 hour and 40 minutes by automobile. It is also 1 hour to Mt Aso.

My advice is to do yourself a favour a drive – it’s approx.. 1.5hrs from Kumamoto Airport, and 3.5hrs from Fukuoka airport. If you’re like me, and planned a few days in and around Kyushu visiting different towns, then it’s easy to add the waterfall to your trip.

As a sidebar, my week-long Kyushu trip went from Fukuoka > Beppu > Takachiho > Kumamoto > Nagasaki > Fukuoka. Unfortunately, I didn’t have enough time to get down to Kagoshima (there’s always next time!).

When you arrive at the gorge following GPS, it will take you to the small-town centre with the gorge a 30-minute walk away. Tourist buses are infrequent and there are no buses on regular weekdays (from my research as well as information from Japanese friends). When you arrive in the town centre there are parking lots on two side of the trail providing easy parking.

Tour / Day Trip to Takachiho Gorge (if You Don’t Want to Drive)

If you’re based in Kumamoto and worried transportation or are not planning on driving, there are day tours you can book that come with an English-speaking guide such as this tour on Klook. It will let you do all the things you want to do such as explore the gorge, row in the famous boats as well as visit the ancient Takachiho shrine.

If you’re based in Fukuoka then you can book a similar day trip tour such as this tour on Klook. I haven’t taken a tour on Klook so can’t speak to the overall experience, but if it gets you to Takachiho Gorge then I doubt you will be disappointed.

Best Season to Visit Takachiho Gorge

Summer and fall are the most popular tourist seasons on Kyushu Island, and they are both stunning; Japan transforms in each of the four seasons so visiting anytime has its benefits. The trees turn a gorgeous hue of orange and other colours in the fall (best visited between mid-November and early December). The combination of fall foliage, waterfall mist, and stunning rock formations creates a magical ambience. If you choose to visit May-July you are blessed with the nicest weather in the summer (I went in the summer, providing leaf greens and moderate weather for the short hike). If you want to visit without the crowds, Takachiho Gorge is less crowded, quieter, and more picturesque in the winter. The result is that it is essentially a year-round attraction that only varies somewhat at different periods of the year and it is open all year for visitors.

The picturesque gorge and its surroundings take on a varied look depending on the season and even from a different angle. The leaves remain green along the gorge from April to October, and this is the classic shot for Takachiho Gorge.

During the spring, it is not a popular site for sakura viewing but you can see plenty of sakura throughout Kyushu. Whilst Takachiho Gorge is popular in the summer, it can be crowded, especially on weekends and holidays. The waterfalls and the promenade are illuminated by powerful spotlights at night creating a mysterious and serene atmosphere.

Best Time to Visit Takachiho Gorge

The most critical aspect of your trip to Takachiho Gorge is the time of day that you visit, not the season of year that you visit. This is because during a brief hour-spell, light shines down upon the waterfall, creating a golden flow. When I arrived at 10 a.m., the sun was in the right location, and the waterfall began to sparkle around 11 a.m. Whether you have a camera or not, this was the greatest time to take photos and simply enjoy the gorge in the best lighting. Arrive in the middle of the morning and stay for a while, giving you time to set up and get your rowboat, or to locate a beautiful position to take in the views of the gorge.

We showed up at Takachiho Gorge at around 10 am, which ended up being incredible luck. The brilliant lighting hit the cascade around 45-minutes after the fact so we were in the ideal timeframe for photographs. If you book a towboat, the walk down to the harbor region allows you to pass a wonderful cascade, the well known Minainotaki Waterfall, which is the superstar in the crevasse.

The second method for partaking in the Takachiho Gorge is from one of the many viewpoints around the falls. My two top picks were the scaffold and the lower (generally well known) perspective. The extension provides you with an exceptionally raised perspective on the boats and the cascade beneath, outlined pleasantly by the overhanging trees and the walls of the chasm. The lower perspective is supposed to be staggeringly packed during crowded seasons however we had it generally to ourselves, as there weren’t many people on the trail plus people continue to hike to and fro instead of staying in the same spot.

After visiting the falls, make sure to keep an eye out for local wildlife and try out the the noodle shops close to the stream giving you a truly unique way to eat somen noodles. Strips of bamboo run along the tables, with water flowing constantly. Be quick to snatch up your noodles as they drift down. And if you are thinking, wait are these cold noodles? Yep, the restaurant uses cooled water from the cascades to keep the somen noodles at the right temperature, and honestly makes it a truly incredible experience.

What to See & Do in Kyushu

Nearby Attractions in Takachiho & Where Should You Go in Kyushu

Fukuoka – If you want to be in a vibrant city scene and a central base, you may want to stay in Fukuoka. Fukuoka has heaps of incredible sites and is famous for Hakata Ramen!

Kumamoto – If you’re looking to get away from the bustling city life and be centrally positioned for all hotspot tourist locations then visit and stay in Kumamoto.

Beppu – If you want to check out a lot of hot springs, mud baths, and sand baths, Beppu in Oita prefecture is the best place for you.

Kagoshima – If you are eager to go hiking in Kirishima and see Mt. Sakurajima, head to Kagoshima prefecture.

Yakushima (Separate Island) – If you want to hike through the stunning Shiratani Unsuikyo Valley, see ancient cedar trees, and waterfalls, Yakushima is the best place for you.

How to Travel Around Kyushu

While the train may suit those in Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, and even in Fukuoka, it won’t cut it out here on Kyushu. The trains will get you from major towns and even into some regional areas with bus connections but almost all of the adventure spots I visited had no bus connections. When I searched on Google Maps and clicked the public transport option it would just say ‘not available’. I also got Japanese friends to help find travel arrangements and the results are very clear; Kyushu island is best to explore by car, especially if you are doing hikes and activities outside of the main cities.

Renting a car wasn’t too expensive and I did the car booking online finding the best-reviewed and the cheapest options. I flew in from Osaka so picked the car up from Fukuoka Airport and dropped it back when I was done. I got a very small car as it was cheap but it turned out very handy on narrow roads and for parking. Remember you need to have an international driver’s license to rent a car in Japan. In fact, they won’t even look at your actual driver’s license and only want to see the international driver’s license. Without it, no car, no refund.

Overview – Day Trip to Takachiho Gorge

All in all, words can’t describe how beautiful Takachiho Gorge was. The volcanic rock formations are almost ethereal and completely mesmerising. Try to allocate at least 3 hours if you’re walking to and from the gorge, though it can be done in 1.5hrs if you blaze through it. It is definitely worth the long drive out there to view such a unique breathtaking natural attraction and still remains one of the most memorable and beautiful trips I’ve undertaken in Japan. If you are interested in Kyushu, check out other Kyushu blog articles on my site or if you have any questions don’t hesitate to drop us an email if you need any information and help on the Takachiho travel guide.

This waterfall is a definite for any bucket list! Pin it now, plan later!

The Best Animal Cafes in Osaka

Marc B — Thu, 18 Aug 2022 17:46:54 +0000

The Best Animal Cafes in Osaka, Japan

Anyone who knows me, knows that I’m an absolute animal lover! Every trip includes zoos, aquariums, wildlife etc., and when in Japan a definite must-see for any itinerary is one of the many raved-about animal cafes! When the animals are just so cute, how can you not visit?

Let’s get stuck into the list of the best animal cafes in Osaka in no particular order…

1) Owl Family Cafe

Starting on the hour and lasting only an hour, Owl Family Café is quaint little place that boasts over 30 different owls and is a definite addition if you plan on visiting animal cafes in Osaka. You can spend your whole 60 minutes patting owls, holding them (perched on your arm) or snuggling up to them and taking dozens and dozens of snaps.

Hot tip: you can reserve your spot online or arrive early to leave your name and then explore the local area such as Kuromon Market! If you arrive early and close to the hour on a weekday, you’ll most likely just walk straight in, like I did.

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Cost: ¥1,500 per 1 hour session with 1 soda/coffee or tea (+¥200 for beer)

Location: Close to Minami-Morimachi Station, you can find Owl Family Café at 1 Chome-10-13 Tenjinbashi, Kita-ku, Ōsaka-shi, Ōsaka-fu 530-0041, Japan

Opening hours: Tuesday to Friday 12:00pm – 8:00pm, Saturday, Sunday, PH 11:00am – 8:00pm, Closed Mondays.

2) Rockstar Reptile Cafe

I may be weird, but I love creepy crawlies, and Rockstar Reptile Café was my favourite animal cafes in Osaka to visit. If your faint of heart or not a fan of reptiles and insects then quickly scroll down to the next café.

Like something from a Harry Potter movie, the café/bar is wall-to-wall packed with a HUGE range of creatures you can get up close and personal with and with unlimited time, you can spend all day and night here! The extensive range of hair raising, spine tingling animals includes lizards, snakes, tarantulas and other spiders, chameleons, geckos, iguanas, bats, owls, turtles, bugs, beetles and centipedes.

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Once you get over your initial fear and hesitation, this café will definitely become a highlight on any Japan trip! Trust me, I took a friend who was petrified of snakes and spiders, and by the end they were wanting more!

Hot tip: you have to ask staff to remove the animals from their tanks and cages, you can’t simply get them yourself. To save time and waiting, or to get your hands on a desired creature the best way is to be friendly and talk to other people in the café. Making small talk will allow you to swap creatures with your café neighbours and will allow you to hold pretty much all animals without having to wait or flag down a staff member.

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Cost: ¥1,000 without drinks, but you do get a membership to visit for free in the future – so if you’re like me, then that’s a bonus!

Location: A 5-10 min walk from Namba station, you’ll find this café on the 3^rd floor of the Namba FK Building (2-7-7 Namba FK building 3F , Naniwa-ku, Osaka-shi Nanbanaka, 〒556-0011)

Opening hours: 12:00pm – 11:00pm

3) Small Animal Cafe Rock Star

Run by the same people as the Reptile Cafe, the Small Animal Café has a range of unusual and different animals that you get to interact with. As an Aussie, in Australia we don’t have hedgehogs, squirrels and chipmunks so this café is the perfect place to hold some furry little creatures that you don’t normally get to see. Don’t worry, there’s still a normal range of animals such as rabbits, hamsters and ferrets. Again unlimited time, so play and take a load of super cute instagram pics that are sure to make your friends jealous.

Cost: ¥1,000 not including drinks. Same one-time entry fee as the Reptile Café.

Location: A 5 min walk from Namba station and reasonably close to Dotonbori.

Opening hours: 1:00pm – 10:00pm

4) Dog Tail Cafe

In my personal opinion (and don’t hate me for it) dogs are way cuter than cats, and Dog Tail Café is the best place to cuddle some playful little pups.

With an assortment of dogs whose tails will all be wagging when you walk in the door, take your pick of the litter and play with dozens of dogs including dachshunds, poodles, chihuahuas and more. When you enter you’re assigned an area where you can enjoy a coffee or cool drink whilst a small army of cuteness-overload will run around trying to get your attention. It’s hard to snap away at the cute little faces, adorable puppy eyes and general canine antics when you have plenty of puppies that all want a pat and to play.

(source Twitter)

Cost: ¥1,000 for 50 minutes

Location: You’ll find Dog Tail on the 4^th Floor of the Yoshie Building at 2-4-6 Yoshie Building, Chuo-ku, Osaka Dotonbori

Opening hours: Mon-Fri: 12:00pm – 10:00pm, Sat & Sun & Public Holidays: 11:00am – 10:00pm

5) Neco Republic (Cat Café)

If you have your heart on heading to a cat café, then Neco Republic is where you need to go. On the 3^rd floor of Neco Republic you will find a cat café where you can relax with many cute cats, but the best thing about Neco Republic is that the whole building is one big business animal shelter that supports cat rescue activities. So you can not only enjoy patting these loving felines, but you can also adopt one if your heart desires. As well as the cat café, there is a nap room on a different floor where you can nap with a cat, as well as a shop to purchase any cat related items.

Cost: ¥1,100 for 30 minutes, ¥1,500 for 60 minutes with ¥500 additions for an extra 30 minutes. All prices include one drink. Holidays and weekends are an additional ¥200 yen per half/full hour.

Location: Only a ten min walk from Shinsaibashi station, you’ll find Neco Republic at 1-26-9 Higashishinsaibashi, Chuo-ku, Osaka-shi.

Opening hours: Mon, Wed-Fri: 2:00pm – 8:00pm, Sat & Sun & Public Holidays: 1:00pm – 7:00pm, Closed Tuesdays.

Other notable animal cafes in Osaka…

The Original Cat Café – Neko no Jikan

Located close to Umeda, Neko no Jikan was the first ever cat café in Japan and a lot more traditional i.e. you can relax with some beautiful cats, in a Japanese-style café with tatami mats (what a tongue twister!). There is a free time period (from 6:00pm to 9:00pm) which is recommended if you plan to spend a few hours at this traditional café. If you’re more inclined to a modern venue with a younger crowd, check out their second café in Americamura (America Town) that’s filled with many young fashionistas.

Cost: ¥1,100 for 60 minutes including one drink, and ¥1,200 for weekends . The free time period is ¥1,200 for as long as you want (between 6:00-9:00pm) on weekdays)

Location: Only a 2-3 minute walk from Nakazakicho station, Neko no Jikan can be found at 2-17-10 Nishishinsaibashi, Chuo-ku, Osaka.

Opening hours: Mon: 11:00am – 7:00pm, Tue-Sat: 11:00am – 9:00pm, Sun: 10:00am – 7:00pm

America-mura Snake Cafe

Yes I love snakes, I think they’re awesome. So if you’re a fan of these cool creatures like me then make sure you check out America-mura Snake Café by the same team behind Osaka Reptile Cafe and Small Animal Cafe Rockstar. In a sexy new venue in the heart of America town that’s a brief walk from Shinsaibashi station, you can get up close and personal with an abundance of snakes from across the globe. With a range of pythons, rat snakes, corn snakes, several boas and more, there are so many of fascinating , slithering snakes in palette of colours and patterns that are sure to get your spine tingling.

Cost: Same as the Reptile Cafe, ¥1,000 without drinks, but you do get a membership to visit for free in the future.

Location: You’ll find the Snake Café on the 4^th floor of the

Yajima Building at 1-8-11 Nishi-shinsaibashi, Chuo-ku, Osaka

Opening hours: 12:00pm – 10:00pm

Know another good animal cafes in Osaka? Leave a comment below, I’d love to know!

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