Hello Everyone! Today was excellent because I finally was able to go to Don Quijote, a store that I have heard so much about before coming to Japan. It might sound like a small event, but for me, it was really exciting! Nikki joined me as we traveled through continuous rain to Gifu City and then on to Don Q. Outside the store, we were greeted by the adorable Donpen who you all know is the blue penguin mascot of Don Quijote. When seeing this character, I suddenly had many questions: Why is he wearing a Santa hat? How did he start this large business? Which floor of the this store can I buy the biggest stuffed animal of this guy?

My questions have not been answered yet, but Nikki and I did have a great time exploring every floor of the store. I was able to buy some new makeup, decorations, and a few snacks I had been missing from Korea. Safe to say, I will be returning back to Don Quijote soon to see what else I can find! Until then, I will continue searching for that Donpen plushie . . .

**Update: After doing some research, I have found out that there is a 2nd Don Quijote mascot that I didn’t see – Donko. On the official Don Quijote website, the only statement about this character is, “Donko is mostly shrouded by a veil of mystery.” Hmm . . . very mysterious indeed.