Summer in Japan is a battle against both stifling humidity and the blazing sun. Even so, people have long found creative ways to embrace and enjoy the season. One of the most beloved ways of handling the heat is through food. Japanese summer dishes are not just about flavor and appearance—they also embody the feeling of the season. Some cool…
Kakigōri (shaved ice) is Japan’s quintessential summer sweet, but in recent years it has evolved beyond its traditional roots into a global trendsetting dessert. Tokyo in particular has become the epicenter of kakigori culture, with specialty shops serving creative variations year-round. From fluffy ice topped with rich fruit syrups to artistic presentations with unique ingredients, Tokyo’s kakigori scene is often…
When traveling in Japan, you may come across a food category called yōshoku (Western-style Japanese cuisine). Yoshoku refers to dishes that originated overseas but have been uniquely adapted to suit Japanese tastes. It became popular during the Meiji era (1868–1912), when Western culture began flowing into Japan, and has since evolved to include classics like hamburger steak, curry rice, and…
Matcha is now a globally recognized superfood, originating from Japan. It’s not only used for drinks, but also in sweets and even skincare products, with its popularity continuing to grow both in Japan and around the world. Especially outside of Japan, matcha is gaining attention as a healthy Japanese ingredient, and it’s not uncommon to see it sold at more…
Asakusa, Tokyo, is a charming district known for its traditional atmosphere and bustling downtown streets. At its heart stands “Funawa Honten” (hereafter referred to as “Funawa”), a beloved Japanese confectionery shop founded in 1902. Famous for its signature imoyōkan (a traditional jellied dessert made from sweet potatoes), Funawa offers a delightful variety of simple yet flavorful wagashi (traditional Japanese sweets)…
Tucked between Ueno and Asakusa, Kappabashi-dori, affectionately known as “Kitchen Town,” is Tokyo’s go-to street for all things culinary. Lined with shops selling everything from handmade knives to hyper-realistic plastic food samples, it’s a goldmine for chefs, restaurant owners, and curious tourists alike. Whether you’re hunting for professional-grade tools or quirky kitchen-themed souvenirs, Kappabashi delivers a shopping experience that doubles…
Embarking on your first trip to Japan is an exciting prospect, filled with dynamic cities, deep-rooted traditions, and unforgettable food. Although a week may feel short for such a diverse country, thoughtful planning makes it possible to see the highlights and gain a real sense of its character. This 7-day itinerary has a well-rounded mix of urban discovery, cultural immersion,…
Must-see festivals in central Tokyo (Shinjuku, Shibuya, etc.) Central Tokyo comes alive in summer with festivals that blend traditional arts and contemporary culture. One of the season’s highlights is the Shinjuku Eisa Festival, taking place on July 26, 2025. This vibrant event brings the dynamic Okinawan dance tradition of Eisa to the streets of Shinjuku. Performers in colorful costumes fill…
Nestled in a lively corner of Asakusa, one of Tokyo’s most popular tourist districts, is “Kaminari Issa Asakusa Honten” (referred to hereafter as “Kaminari Issa”), a haven that captivates matcha lovers. This is a matcha sweets specialty shop. From eat-in menu items that can be slowly savored in the store to take-out menu items perfect for eating while walking around,…
Walking through the lively streets of Asakusa, your eyes are drawn to an array of matcha sweets that make you want to stop in your tracks. From cakes to crepes, puddings to parfaits, the variety is so abundant it’s overwhelming to choose. However, if you want to savor matcha made with carefully selected ingredients, you should definitely visit “Kaminari Issa…
Japan’s summers are no joke—hot, humid, and surprisingly intense, especially for first-time visitors. Many tourists come unprepared for the sticky heat, only to find themselves drenched in sweat within minutes of stepping outside. But Japan has developed all kinds of clever ways to beat the heat—from wearable cooling pads to portable fans—and they’ve become a reliable way to make sure…
Asakusa, home to a collection of historic eateries with over 100 years of history, is where you’ll find Sukiyaki Imahan Honten, serving guests since 1895. This sukiyaki specialty restaurant is renowned for its secret warishita (sukiyaki broth), a carefully guarded recipe passed down to each successive owner. Now proudly made by the current owner, this signature broth has been a…
In Japan, oden is so ingrained in everyday life that you can even buy it at convenience stores. Oden is a traditional Japanese home-cooked dish where various ingredients such as daikon radish, eggs, chikuwa (tube-shaped fish cake), and konnyaku (firm jelly made from konjac yam) are slowly simmered in dashi broth. Tokyo, where oden culture is deeply rooted, is home…
Asakusa, one of Tokyo’s premier tourist destinations, buzzes with festival-like energy every day. From visiting Sensō-ji Temple to touring the town on a rickshaw and indulging in delicious local food, there are plenty of ways to enjoy your trip to Asakusa. Among the area’s culinary highlights is “Suzukien Asakusa Honten,” (hereafter referred to as “Suzukien”) a popular shop where lines…
Introduction to Asakusa Welcome to Asakusa, the historical heart of Tokyo, where the old meets the new in the most delightful ways. This vibrant neighborhood feels like stepping into a time machine but with all the modern comforts like Wi-Fi. Imagine wandering through ancient temples, exploring bustling shopping streets, hopping onto rickshaws, and tasting street food that will leave your…