Ramen is one of the most iconic dishes in Japanese cuisine. The classic soup bases include soy sauce, salt, tonkotsu (pork bone), and miso. Among them, miso ramen—made with a soup base using miso—offers a rich, savory depth of flavor. At “Miso ga Ichiban” in Nakano, Tokyo, you can enjoy ramen that brings out the full flavor and aroma of…
“Habutaedango Honten” (referred to hereafter as “Habutae Dango”), a historic teahouse founded in 1819, has its main shop in Tokyo’s Nippori neighborhood. For over 200 years, it has been beloved by locals and visitors alike. With such a long history dating back to the Edo period (1603–1868), the shop has appeared in the works of many Japanese literary giants, including…
Located at the base of Tokyo Skytree in Oshiage, the Tokyo Solamachi shopping complex is home to “Horiuchi Fruit Farm TOKYO Solamachi” (referred to hereafter as “Horiuchi Fruit Farm”), a cafe directly operated by the fruit farm of the same name. It’s a true destination for fruit lovers—where you can indulge all five senses in the delicious world of fruit….
The Japanese tea ceremony—called chanoyu or sadō/chadō—is not merely about drinking tea. It is a refined cultural art, a meditative practice, and a spiritual discipline guided by the principles of harmony, respect, purity, and tranquility. For first-time visitors to Japan, taking part in a tea ceremony offers an intimate window into the country’s traditions and aesthetic ideals. Both Kyoto and…
Kamakura lies just an hour south of Tokyo, but the shift in pace and atmosphere feels far greater. Once the political center of medieval Japan, this coastal town blends historical weight with relaxed seaside charm, famous for its numerous temples, breezy beaches, and the iconic Great Buddha watching over it all. For first-time visitors to Tokyo, Kamakura offers one of…
Miso is a traditional Japanese seasoning made from fermented soybeans and rice, with over 1,000 years of history. It’s a staple in Japanese cuisine—found in miso soup, stews, hot pots, and grilled dishes—and deeply rooted in Japanese food culture. If you’re looking to see, taste, and truly experience Japan’s miso culture, “Miso Soup Cafe Ajien” is the place to go….
Miso—a traditional Japanese seasoning made by fermenting soybeans with rice, barley, or salt—is a staple in Japanese cuisine. From miso soup to hot pots and simmered dishes, it’s an essential element of everyday meals. Different regions of Japan have their own miso traditions. In Aichi Prefecture, a major soybean-producing region, aka miso (red miso) has been a local favorite for…
Omurice (omelet rice) is a type of Western-style Japanese dish made by wrapping ketchup-seasoned chicken rice in a thin omelet. It’s typically served with a topping of ketchup or demi-glace sauce. In recent years, a new style of omurice has emerged, featuring fluffy, slightly runny eggs. The dish has also continued to evolve, with a growing variety of fillings and…
Omurice (omelet rice) is a quintessential example of yōshoku, Western-inspired cuisine that originated and evolved in Japan. There are two main types of omurice: one where ketchup-flavored chicken rice is wrapped in a thin omelet, and another where creamy, soft-scrambled eggs are spooned over the rice. One of the first restaurants to adopt the latter style is the iconic yoshoku…
Wagashi, traditional Japanese sweets, embody the country’s singular aesthetic sensibilities. Their forms and colors express seasonal scenery and even poetic sentiment, displaying a delicate artistry akin to fine crafts. At the heart of wagashi lies a deep appreciation for nature, the seasons, and the spirit of hospitality—core elements of Japanese culture. Wagashi are more than just confections; they are symbols…
At Tokyo Solamachi, the shopping complex at the base of Tokyo Skytree, you can enjoy a special fruit-filled summer experience. One must-visit destination is “Horiuchi Fruit Farm TOKYO Solamachi” (referred to hereafter as “Horiuchi Fruit Farm”), a cafe operated directly by the fruit-specialist farm of the same name. During the summer, the Tokyo Solamachi branch offers seasonally-exclusive kakigōri (shaved ice)…
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,…
Due to its unique historical background, Okinawa has developed a rich and distinct culture unlike that of mainland Japan. This includes a diverse food culture, and in recent years, more and more restaurants in Tokyo offer Okinawan cuisine. Among them, “Dachibin” in Kōenji stands out for its long-standing history. Founded in 1978, Dachibin has become a pioneer of Okinawan food…
With so many distinct neighborhoods in Tokyo, deciding where to stay can greatly influence your experience. Rather than listing each district’s features, this guide focuses on practical tips to help foreign visitors choose accommodations that match their travel goals, budget, and comfort preferences. Tips for choosing accommodations in Tokyo 1. Prioritize access to major train stations Efficient transportation is essential…
Chanko nabe is a traditional hot pot dish deeply intertwined with Japan’s sumo culture. For sumo wrestlers, nutritional balance has always been paramount in their diet to maintain and strengthen their physiques. Japanese hot pot dishes, which are mainly built around protein while incorporating a variety of ingredients, are truly ideal meals for sumo wrestlers. Born from this tradition, chanko…