[Philippines, Davao] Impressions from a 7-Night, 8-Day Solo Trip and Breakdown of Food Expenses Totaling 7,599 PHP

Impressions of Davao, Philippines and Places Visited

• Extremely Safe

  In tourist areas, many people try to overcharge foreigners. However, in Davao I never encountered that. Even unofficial taxis did not overcharge at all. The change is often given roughly with small amounts rounded off. With plenty of security guards around, I felt no danger at all. As expected in a city once home to former President Duterte.
  According to this article, Davao ranked second among the safest cities in Southeast Asia in 2019.

• The People of Davao are Very Friendly

  Although the Philippines is generally friendly, Davao stands out from the rest.
  If you accidentally wander into a side street, a group in the middle of a drinking party might suddenly hand you a glass and make you drink up – a delightfully chaotic experience.
  

  

  At a canteen (diner), I received a free meal along with a commemorative photo. Unlike typical tourist spots, people here aren’t fixated on money; everyone just seems to be having fun.

  

  I wish I could emulate the cheerful spirit—they pose so happily when the camera is pointed at them.

  

  Here too, I was treated to free turon and strawberry juice.
  They made sure this tourist didn’t have to pay a cent, lol.

• There Are Relatively Many People Who Speak Japanese

  Compared to Manila or Baguio, the likelihood of meeting Japanese speakers is clearly higher. Especially among women, many who speak Japanese have previously worked in Japan. This is probably influenced by the history of many Japanese living in Davao during World War II.

• There Are Quite a Few Japanese Restaurants

  While not as authentic as in Japan, the quality isn’t too low, and even Japanese people can enjoy them. It was fun searching for “so-called” Japanese food – like finding a ramen shop named “Shichiran” instead of “Ichiran.”
  

  

  Yamashita Diner / Yamashita Diner
  The name appears to be inspired by the Filipino urban legend of “Yamashita’s Treasure.” Such an enticing name.
  MAP of this location

  

  The noren (curtain) has clear Japanese writing. I was convinced by the style (in a way).

  

  Yamashita Diner’s Miso Ramen
  A rich miso soup paired with noodles that are soft yet have a slight bite. The boiled egg is perfectly runny, and the chashu is tender and nicely fatty. Quality that even Japanese people can enjoy.
  However, the bean sprouts aren’t crisp at all; if they could fix that, it might just hold its own even in Japan.

• The Water is Clean

  Thanks to Mount Apo – the highest peak in the Philippines – Mindanao seems to have access to exceptionally clean water, and there are even places where tap water can be drunk. Of course, it depends on the region and facilities, and even locals sometimes avoid drinking tap water, so it’s generally best to refrain.

• The Fruit is Delicious

  I finally managed to conquer durian, which had defeated me many times in other countries. It still has its distinctive smell, of course. Likely, the mineral-rich water from Mount Apo and the strong sunlight in Mindanao elevate the quality of the fruit.

  

• Bankerohan Public Market is a Fruit Paradise

  This market is so vast that it could be the subject of an entire article, and simply wandering among the heaps of fruit can lift your spirits.
  And it’s also the place where I encountered the best fruit of my life, mangosteen. Its delicate, silky sweet-and-sour taste seems as if it were made to delight the human palate – you simply must try it.
  MAP of this location

  
  
  
  
  
  

• You Will See Muslims (Followers of Islam)

  Although the Philippines is predominantly Catholic, Mindanao—due to its location, which made Spanish rule less pervasive—has a significant Muslim population. I even came across halal food.

• Jollibee Featured in the Anime Film “Mobile Suit Gundam: Hathaway’s Flash”

  Since the location is rather obscure, I wonder how many people have actually visited it. It feels like a pilgrimage to a sacred site.
  MAP of this location

  This angle appears around the 32-minute mark in the film, so definitely check it out.
  I really love Jollibee. Their crispy Chickenjoy is highly recommended.
  This appears to be the spot where the protagonist Hathaway caught a taxi. It’s quite different in atmosphere from the movie.

• Japanese Tunnel

  These are the remnants of air-raid shelters dug by the Japanese during World War II. Although it is said to stretch for several kilometers, only a small section is open to the public. Opening up a long tunnel would be impractical for tourists and maintenance, so the limited section seems appropriate.
  There are also lodging facilities and a pool, but perhaps due to COVID, they didn’t seem to be operating properly. For some reason, there was a replica of Yamashita’s Treasure inside the tunnel. It appears that the legend of Yamashita’s Treasure lives on here.
  MAP of this location

  
  Some non-native Japanese writing gives it a quirky charm.
  It looks like a jail cell. It seems like it could easily break if pushed, almost like a room for reflection.
  Probably a rusted Type 14 handgun – evidence of the Imperial Japanese Army’s presence here.
  A broken alarm system.
  It’s nice that you can quickly take a look around. Visiting here is sure to deepen your understanding of the intertwined histories of the Philippines and Japan.

• Japanese Cemetery in Davao

  There is a cemetery for Japanese who died during World War II. There are also graves of residents from the post-war period, but with unnamed graves and other uncertainties, much remains unclear. To fully understand, one might need to consult historical documents.
  MAP of this location

  
  
  
  
  It was completely overgrown with weeds, but the cemetery keeper cleared them off to show me, saying “I’m here.” It was in a spot you would never have noticed without guidance.
  An enigmatic grave with no inscription or faded writing, also covered in weeds. According to the cemetery keeper, it is a Japanese grave.

• Philippine-Japanese Historical Museum in Davao

  A museum that showcases the history between Japan and Davao. In addition to historical documents, you can view agricultural tools and ethnic costumes. It even appears that Japanese politicians have visited.
  MAP of this location

  
  I arrived here at 4:40 PM. The museum closed at 5:00 PM – I barely made it, but it was already closed. I stood there in shock until they kindly reopened it just for me. Much appreciated!
  They even turned on the lights and air conditioning, and I was the only visitor – it felt like a private tour, which really lifted my spirits.
  
  Since filming permission was granted for only a small section, I highly recommend visiting to reflect on the history of Japan and the Philippines. It will undoubtedly make Davao feel even more special.

Food Expenses and Taste Ratings for Solo Trip in Davao, Philippines

Cuisine Images with a Brief Comment

There are also gourmet images that are not listed.

Piattos

In-flight

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On my Cebu Pacific flight to Manila, I tried Piattos cheese-flavored crackers. Their crunchy texture and cheese flavor made me crave beer. Surprisingly, they didn't smell strongly until eaten. Perhaps their subtle aroma made them suitable for in-flight sales. I could enjoy them without restraint! Crunch, crunch!

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Taste Rating 3 Price 40 PHP View details of this food

Sukiyaki Rice Bowl

Manila, Ninoy Aquino International Airport

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Japanese food abroad is always enticing. During a domestic transfer at Manila Airport, I tried sukiyaki don. Though it looked good, the meat was crumbly, the carrots gritty, and the rice dry. Yet, I finished it quickly, captivated by a mysterious charm. Why? The sauce was authentically delicious! A single superb element transformed the dish, much like life.

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Taste Rating 1 Price 198 PHP View details of this food

Durian

Davao, Chinatown

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Is durian a talent? I had failed five times to tolerate its strong smell. This time, I tried Davao's durian. The plump, ripe yellow fruit... Surprisingly, the smell was bearable! It had a refined, mellow sweetness. The real talent lay in Davao's durian, not me.

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Taste Rating ? Price 450 PHP View details of this food

Penoy (3 Pieces)

Davao, Chinatown

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Being a beginner in foreign cuisine is an exhilarating luxury. In Davao, a man sold duck eggs from a bicycle. Expecting balut but receiving penoy, I had no choice but to try. Made during balut production, penoy looked like a boiled egg. Its yolk and white combined into a rich flavor. Adding vinegar, I felt happy as a beginner.

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Taste Rating 2 Price 25 PHP View details of this food

Mangosteen Ice Cream (Possibly Charcoal Ice Cream)

Davao, Chinatown

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It's mangosteen ice cream, he said, but the sign read "Charcoal." Enthusiastic about mangosteen, I agreed. It felt gritty and lacked fruitiness. Was it charcoal? I had never tried mangosteen... I'll confirm it myself! You can't taste things online; personal experience is best!

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Taste Rating 2 Price 25 PHP View details of this food

Turon and Strawberry Juice

Davao, Chinatown

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In a tropical country, I found spring rolls. The crunchy turon, filled with banana and jackfruit, was sweet and tangy like youth. I also enjoyed my long-desired bagged juice. The refreshing strawberry flavor paired well with fried food. Despite indulging, the vendor didn't charge me! The tropical Davao was filled with spring-like sweetness.

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Taste Rating 2 Price ? View details of this food

Ginisang Ampalaya

Davao, Chinatown

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I suffered a significant loss in the Philippines. At night in Davao, I wandered into an alley, surrounded by many. They took pictures, put what seemed like a gun in my mouth, and fed me. I offered my valuables but faced terrifying resistance. What did I lose? My hear- (censorship)

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Taste Rating 2 Price ? View details of this food

Crocodile Ice Cream (Chocolate)

Davao, Riverfront Crocodile Park & Zoo

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At Davao's Crocodile Park, I indulged! Starting with chocolate ice cream, which looked ordinary but contained crocodile eggs. The rich, lingering chocolate flavor felt like a testament to strong life force. "This stickiness is powerful... but humans reign supreme in the food chain!" I bravely declared to the ice cream.

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Taste Rating 4 Price 150 PHP View details of this food

Jollibee

Davao, Jollibee

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Davao in the Philippines is an anime pilgrimage site! Visiting Jollibee, where the protagonist of "Mobile Suit Gundam: Hathaway's Flash" visits, feels heartwarming. The movie depicts Davao's atmosphere well, contrasting the protagonist's thousand-year vision with the Davao residents' short-term outlook. There's a similar angle around the 32-minute mark in the film.

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Taste Rating 3 Price 147 PHP View details of this food

Crocodile Sisig

Davao, Vista View Resto

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Davao's night view is dazzling, and at a restaurant, I spotted crocodile sisig. My eyes sparkled! If I directed that gaze at a woman, it would be "game over." Crocodile meat is twice as chewy as beef and very lean. The salty sauce paired perfectly with rice. I noticed a couple next to me enjoying it too.

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Taste Rating 2 Price 875 PHP View details of this food

Yamashita Roll

Davao, Yamashita Diner

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After touring the Japanese Tunnel, I craved Japanese food and found Yamashita Roll, inspired by the urban legend of Yamashita's treasure. The shrimp and cheese buried in rice had a legendary taste. The crispy tempura flakes felt like discovering hidden treasure. Yamashita's treasure is passed down through Davao's cuisine.

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Taste Rating 2 Price 179 PHP View details of this food

Pork Sisig

Davao, Matina Town Square

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For a night out in Davao, head to Matina Town Square! Enjoy Filipino singing while munching on crunchy pork sisig, seasoned heavily with salt, making beer flow like a waterfall. However, the excess fat made it far from ideal. I have high standards for sisig! (I'm the noisy drunk type)

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Taste Rating 2 Price 230 PHP View details of this food

MOGU MOGU Lychee

Davao

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Mogu Mogu, a drink I can recommend worldwide, contains nata de coco chunks in fruit juice, devoured in seconds. It's like catnip in the juice world. Originating in Thailand, it's sold in over 60 countries, including Japan! I immediately searched online, only to find their X (formerly Twitter) account suspended, making me cry instantly.

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Taste Rating 3 Price 52 PHP View details of this food

Steamed Prawns with Garlic (Small Size)

Davao, Ahfat Seafoods Plaza

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Hearing rumors of delicious lobster, I went to a seafood Chinese restaurant in Davao but found it sold out. I angrily settled for shrimp, the lesser alternative. The shrimp were unexpectedly plump and juicy, with a garlic sauce that made the rice irresistible. It was so delicious that I apologized to the shrimp. I'm the inferior one here.

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Taste Rating 4 Price 600 PHP View details of this food

Lechon Bowl

Davao, Night Market

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Is the purpose of travel important? In my experience, not really. I found a small, unlisted night market in Davao by chance. The unfamiliar street food and local interactions made for memorable experiences. I often find what I seek before I know it. So, enjoy the detours on your journey, as Gon’s father said.

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Taste Rating 3 Price 99 PHP View details of this food

Sponge (Small Bag)

Davao

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To elevate happiness in the Philippines, know your favorite snacks. I found Sponge, a corn puff snack soaked in chocolate, at 7-Eleven. The crunch reminded me of moist chocolate snacks. The chocolate's sweetness is like romance—bittersweet, but my love life is bitter.

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Taste Rating 3 Price 12 PHP View details of this food

CreamO Vanilla (3 Pieces)

Davao

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A common problem in Filipino convenience stores is choosing snacks. When in the mood for Oreos, I recommend Cream-O vanilla flavor! The cocoa cookie's crunch and slight bitterness, combined with the high cream flavor accuracy, are excellent. Just overlook the cream not separating cleanly when split.

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Taste Rating 3 Price 9 PHP View details of this food

Nagaraya Original (Small Bag)

Davao

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Let's drink with Nagaraya cracker nuts! The peanuts in a crispy, slightly sweet coating are crunchy but don't pair well with alcohol. Research shows they were developed for office workers and kids studying. Knowing this heartwarming fact, my face turned redder as a drunk making false claims.

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Taste Rating 2 Price 14 PHP View details of this food

Pastil

Davao, Big Bang Park

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Does it look un-Filipino? It's Pastil (Patil), a halal dish from Mindanao. The beef is fatty and juicy, with a spicy kick that makes the rice irresistible. Knowing Mindanao's large Muslim population brings new reasons to visit the Philippines. Time to work hard!

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Taste Rating 3 Price 80 PHP View details of this food

Grilled Catfish

Davao, Roxas Night Market

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The catfish, also known as hito, has whiskers like a cat. This cute-named fish was grilled on skewers! The juicy white flesh was reminiscent of grilled tuna. Hmm, why is "cat" used for both cats and catfish? I decided not to say anything, knowing it's risky around cat lovers. (Sorry, kitty!)

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Taste Rating 3 Price 200 PHP View details of this food

Hopia Ube Flavor

Davao, Roxas Night Market

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Rojas Night Market in Davao is a must-visit. I discovered Hopia, a flaky pastry with a purple yam filling. The sweet but not overly sweet filling made it a great snack. Originally from China, it was adapted to Filipino tastes. Changing the filling to suit local preferences shows the versatility of the stuffing system.

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Taste Rating 2 Price 10 PHP View details of this food

Pork Adobo

Davao, Matina Town Square, Balai Torrentira

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Next, I tried Pork Adobo, a Filipino dish of Spanish origin. The sweet and salty stewed pork pairs well with rice. The key to this dish is vinegar, which tightens the flavor and aids in preservation—a boon for households. I tried preserving adobo for my family but realized I had no family.

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Taste Rating 4 Price 170 PHP View details of this food

Chicharon Bulaklak

Davao, Matina Town Square

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Quick snack Chicharon Bulaklak is deep-fried pork intestines of Spanish origin. The astonishing crunch and savory oil make you forget the fat content as you devour it quickly and down beer rapidly. The result? Mach-speed happiness! Life at Mach-speed...

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Taste Rating 2 Price 190 PHP View details of this food

Ostrich Egg Vanilla Ice Cream

Davao, Riverfront Crocodile Park & Zoo

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Is it mutual joy when you eat? At Crocodile Park, I interacted with ostriches and tried their egg-based vanilla ice cream. It was slightly sticky with a rich condensed milk flavor. "Producers must be happy seeing people enjoy ostrich egg ice cream," I thought. Ostrich: "I'd rather eat the guy who calls consuming my eggs 'interaction'!"

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Taste Rating 3 Price 150 PHP View details of this food

Crocodile Hamburger

Davao, Riverfront Crocodile Park & Zoo

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At Crocodile Park, I tasted and interacted with crocodile burgers. The buns were crisp, and the patty was chewy. The meat lacked distinct flavor, so ketchup and mayo enhanced it. Combining tasting and touching creates memorable experiences. Disneyland should try this, using... different meat?

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Taste Rating 2 Price 160 PHP View details of this food

Duterte's Favorite Set (Bulalo, Kinilaw, Tapa)

Davao, Sana's Original Kabawan & Bulaloan

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What was former President Duterte's favorite dish? Surrounded by celebrity photos, I was served bulalo, kinilaw, and tapa, Duterte's favorites. The rich carabao soup, especially the buttery bone marrow, was memorable. Experiencing gourmet food like a president left me with wonderful Davao memories.

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Taste Rating 4 Price 780 PHP View details of this food

Mangosteen (1kg 160, 100 Pesos for 3)

Davao, Bankerohan Public Market

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Davao's mangosteen was genuine. Its delicate and vibrant sweetness and acidity delighted my brain. Despite its excellence, it's not commercially cultivated in Japan. Is this a business opportunity? I'll study cultivation first... a 10-year wait for harvest? I can wait easily. Someone, please do it.

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Taste Rating 5 Price 100 PHP View details of this food

Hotel Stayed in Davao, Philippines – Las Casitas de Angela Hotel