Harajuku

Harajuku’s Hidden Gem: Explore Traditional Japanese Ukiyo-e Art at the Ota Memorial Museum

Nestled slightly away from the hustle and bustle of Shibuya and Harajuku, the Ota Memorial Museum of Art houses and exhibits a magnificent collection of ukiyo-e artwork (traditional Japanese woodblock paintings and prints) collected by the late businessman Seizō Ota V (1893-1977). The museum boasts one of the world’s largest ukiyo-e collections, featuring masterpieces by renowned artists such as Katsushika…

Best Kakigori in Tokyo: 9 Shaved Ice Cafes You Need to Visit This Summer

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…

The Secret to Tokyo’s Best Omurice Restaurants? It’s All in the Sauce!

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…

5 Best Places to Eat Near Yoyogi Park – Easy Stops from Harajuku or Shibuya

Yoyogi Park is a rare pocket of nature in the heart of Tokyo—a lush urban oasis that’s perfect for a relaxing walk, picnic, or jog. With its spacious grounds and seasonal beauty, it’s a beloved hangout for both locals and tourists. The park is conveniently located next to Meiji Jingu shrine and is within walking distance of popular neighborhoods like…

The Best Times to Visit Yoyogi Park—Cherry Blossoms, Fall Colors & More

Nestled beside JR Yamanote Line’s Harajuku Station, Yoyogi Kōen (Yoyogi Park) is a lush urban oasis. Transforming with the seasons, this park offers fresh discoveries with every visit. Here’s a helpful guide to its natural and cultural highlights, perfect for a spontaneous stop during your travels. Why visit Yoyogi Park Spanning about 540,000 square meters (133 acres), Yoyogi Park nurtures…

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Must-Try Refreshing Shaved Ice in Tokyo You Won’t Want to Stop Eating

In the peak of summer heat—July and August—there’s a perfect place to cool down that you’ll definitely want to visit. That place is Hachiya, a specialty cafe devoted to the fragrant world of Japanese tea. Here, you can enjoy premium teas like matcha, hōjicha (roasted green tea) and sencha green tea, paired with beautifully crafted Japanese-style sweets that are not…

タケノとおはぎ 表参道店

Must-Try Ohagi in Harajuku: Beautiful Traditional Japanese Sweets

Ohagi, a traditional Japanese sweet said to have been enjoyed since the Kamakura period (1185 to 1333), is typically made from sweet rice and red bean paste.Depending on the season or region, it may also be known as botamochi. These confections, deeply rooted in Japan’s spiritual customs, were traditionally enjoyed during Ohigan, a Buddhist holiday celebrated during the spring and…

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This Harajuku Spot Serves Omurice Like You’ve Never Seen Before

Omurice—fried rice wrapped in a fluffy omelet and often finished with ketchup—takes its name from “omelette” + “rice.” It’s one of the signature dishes in Japan’s Western-influenced yōshoku (Western-style) cuisine. Since its creation in the early 1900s, omurice has continued to evolve, and today you’ll find countless varieties served across Japan. If you want to taste everything from the classic…

Japan 7-Day Itinerary for First-Time Visitors: Culture, Food, and Cities

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,…

Gluten-Free Matcha Sweets Made with Organic Ingredients—Straight from Omotesando

Just a short walk from the bustle of Omotesando in Tokyo lies Urasando Garden, a quiet little complex housed in a beautifully renovated traditional Japanese home. Tucked away in one corner is “Riz Labo Kitchen Urasando Garden” (hereafter referred to as “Riz Labo Kitchen”), a cafe specializing in gluten-free sweets. The stars of the menu are pancakes and crepes made…

Explore the New World of Matcha: From DIY Tea to Stylish Sweets in Omotesando

Matcha has long been rooted in Japanese culture, from tea ceremonies to wagashi (traditional Japanese sweets). But this time-honored flavor has evolved in surprisingly creative ways with the times. In recent years, a wave of specialty matcha dessert shops has ushered in a new era of matcha sweets that blend Japanese tradition with Western innovation. Why not step into this…

What to Buy on Takeshita Street – 10 Unique Japanese Souvenir Ideas

Takeshita Street, nestled in the heart of Tokyo’s vibrant Harajuku district, is a shopper’s paradise bursting with quirky, stylish, and fashion-forward items. Famous for its colorful and eclectic vibe, it’s the perfect place to pick up unique souvenirs that reflect Japan’s playful and trendsetting culture. Whether you’re in search of kawaii accessories, bold fashion statements, or one-of-a-kind trinkets, Takeshita Street…

5 Harajuku Street Fashion Styles to Spot on Takeshita Street: Which One Matches You?

Few places capture the spirit of youthful creativity like Harajuku. Located just a short walk from the urban elegance of Omotesandō, this vibrant Tokyo district pulses with self-expression. At its heart is Takeshita Street, a narrow pedestrian road that has become a runway for bold individuality. Here, fashion is more than just clothing—it’s identity, statement, and sometimes even rebellion. As…

Top 5 Stations to Visit on The Yamanote Line

Imagine exploring Tokyo as if stepping into scenes from your favorite anime—vibrant, dynamic, and endlessly intriguing. Each station on the Yamanote Line unfolds like a new episode, offering unique adventures, distinctive characters, and delightful surprises. As Tokyo’s busiest train line, the Yamanote Line pulses through the city, connecting iconic districts as seamlessly as story arcs intertwine in a captivating anime…