Umami bites

Ginza is a Tokyo neighborhood where tradition blends seamlessly with cutting-edge trends. “Tempura Ginza Onodera Higashi Ginza” is a restaurant that embodies the sophistication of Ginza’s refined atmosphere through its cuisine. Luxurious tempura featuring Kuroge wagyū beef We’d like to take some time to introduce Tempura Ginza Onodera Higashi Ginza’s “Japanese Harmony Course,” which allows you to enjoy both tempura…

Asakusa, while being one of Tokyo’s premier tourist destinations, is also a gourmet area packed with long-established, famous restaurants. Established in 1951, “Yoshikami” is a name that invariably comes up when discussing Asakusa’s dining scene. Yoshikami is a restaurant that specializes in yōshoku (Western-inspired Japanese cuisine) that evolved uniquely after international dishes were introduced to Japan. Signature dishes of Asakusa’s…

As soon as you enter this restaurant, your eyes are immediately drawn to the sumo wrestling ring. What unfolds from there is a vibrant sumo show filled with laughter, intense matches, and an immersive atmosphere! “Asakusa Sumo Club” opened in Asakusa in January 2024 as a restaurant where guests can enjoy meals while watching sumo shows performed by former sumo…

Tokyo’s winter season (December to February) brings crisp, cold weather, with temperatures ranging from chilly to brisk, but rarely extreme. To help you prepare for your trip, we’ve created a month-by-month packing guide to ensure you’ll be comfortable and ready to explore the city during this beautiful season. December in Tokyo December weather in Tokyo December in Tokyo marks the…

In Japan, nabe (traditional hot pot cuisine) is enjoyed typically during chilly winter months. However, at “Akutoridaikan Nabenoshin” in Shibuya, you can savor 12 varieties of nabe all year round, regardless of the season. “国産黒毛和牛のすき焼き,” Kuroge Wagyu Sukiyaki (minimum order for 2 people) 3,498 JPY per person (tax included) The most popular dish is their “Kuroge Wagyu Sukiyaki,” featuring Kuroge…

The Anamori Inari Jinja Shrine, located near Haneda Airport, is said to offer blessings for safe air travel and journeys. The nearest station is Anamori-Inari Station, just three stops away from Keikyū Airport Line’s Haneda Airport Terminal 1 and Terminal 2 Station, making it a convenient spot to visit during your travels. The shrine is known for offering various blessings,…

Located in Shinjuku’s Kabukichō, one of Japan’s most famous entertainment districts, is the long-established restaurant “Suzuya Shinjukuhonten” (referred to hereafter as “Suzuya”), beloved by many. This restaurant is famous for turning one of Japan’s most popular dishes, tonkatsu (breaded pork cutlet), into a unique ochazuke (a dish where green tea or dashi is poured over rice). “とんかつ茶づけ,” Tonkatsu Chazuke 1,690…

In the midst of a quiet residential neighborhood, there is a scene that looks as though time has stood still. Deep within the grounds of a temple, surrounded by lush greenery, stands a solid and majestic hall. This is Zōshigayakishimojindō, a Buddhist temple dedicated to the deity of safe childbirth and childrearing. You may find the scene familiar, as it…

December to February is winter in Japan, a magical season offering a combination of heartwarming cuisine, traditional events, and breathtaking scenery. Here are ten experiences that make the Japanese winter unforgettable. Seasonal Foods 1. Hearty winter hot pots Japan’s cold weather calls for a warm, nourishing hot pot, known as nabe in Japanese. For example, you can indulge in shabu-shabu,…

Ashikaga Flower Park is one of Japan’s most celebrated floral destinations, gaining worldwide attention for its breathtaking beauty. At the heart of this park lies the iconic wisteria flowers, which continue to captivate visitors from around the globe. The expansive wisteria trellises and tunnels are must-see attractions, offering an unparalleled visual spectacle that leaves a lasting impression. The wisteria experience…

The Nakameguro area is known for its diverse range of stylish restaurants. Among them, “Beef Kitchen Nakameguro Honten” (referred to hereafter as “Beef Kitchen Nakameguro”) has been satisfying meat lovers for many years. This popular restaurant that deals in carefully selected Kuroge wagyū (Japanese black) beef has garnered particularly high ratings on gourmet websites. The spotlessly clean interior and attentive…

When dining in Japan, you’ll often find a variety of condiments at your table, each enhancing your meal in unique ways. From familiar soy sauce to more adventurous spices, these seasonings aren’t just extras—they’re a key part of the flavor experience. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the most common tableside condiments found at different types of restaurants, what…

Explore the vibrant flavors of Okinawa, where island culture meets unforgettable cuisine. From savory Okinawan soba to fresh seafood and tropical sweets, these must-try dishes offer a taste of the island’s rich culinary heritage. Dive into Okinawa’s food scene and discover its unique flavors! Gōya champurū: an Okinawa classic Gōya champurū is a signature Okinawan stir-fry made with tofu, egg,…

Hot pot, or nabe ryōri in Japanese, is a delightful way to enjoy a communal meal that warms both body and soul. Types of Japanese hot pot Japanese hot pot features a variety of broths and ingredients catering to different tastes. Common broths include simple dashi made from kombu (kelp), rich chicken stock, or bases flavored with soy sauce or…