Kioichō in Tokyo was once home to famous feudal lords in the Edo period. This area, steeped in Edo history, is lined with renowned high-end Japanese restaurants that exude luxury. Among these restaurants in the area, one we would like to introduce is Kioichō Kichiza. The kaiseki (traditional Japanese multicourse meals), composed of seasonal ingredients, are crafted with meticulous care…
Onigiri, rice balls, have been a staple in Japanese cuisine for centuries. While simple in concept, their depth in craft and flavor have made them not just a traditional treat, but a popular modern delicacy. These tasty rice balls come in a wide variety of flavors, and are the perfect snack to fuel your travels in Japan. Here are some…
When it comes to bakery shops, finding one that offers freshly made bread at any time of the day is a rare treat. At “dacō Nakameguro,” located in the trendy Nakameguro area of Tokyo, nearly 40 different types of bread are freshly baked or finished just before being served, ensuring that every bite is as fresh as possible. Not only…
Nestled in Tokyo’s Shinagawa Ward, Hebikubo Shrine is dedicated to the white snake, a revered creature believed to be a divine messenger. The shrine sees a surge of visitors on the “Day of the Snake,” an auspicious occasion that takes place every 12 days and is considered especially lucky. To find out when the next Day of the Snake will…
In Japan, it’s believed that there are many gods, a concept captured in the phrase yaoyorozu no kami, literally meaning “eight million gods.” Among these, however, the goddess of the sun, Amaterasu Ōmikami, is considered the supreme deity. One notable place where Amaterasu Omikami is enshrined is Asagaya Shinmeigu Shrine, in the Asagaya neighborhood of Tokyo. The shrine is known…
Japan’s traditional festivals are known for their vibrant parades centered on mikoshi palanquin. But did you know that the largest mikoshi in Japan is displayed at Tomioka Hachimangu Shrine? This magnificent mikoshi, adorned with diamonds and pure gold, is truly a sight to behold! Explore Tomioka Hachimangu Shrine’s 400-year history Founded in 1627, Tomioka Hachimangu Shrine enshrines Emperor Ōjin as…
If you’re visiting Tokyo, katsu curry is a must-try. This iconic Japanese dish combines the satisfying crunch of a breaded pork cutlet with the comforting flavor of Japanese cury, making it a favorite among locals and tourists alike. In this article, we’ll introduce you to some of the very best katsu curry restaurants in Tokyo, each offering its own unique…
Situated in the bustling Toyosu district of Tokyo, “teamLab Planets TOKYO DMM” (hereunder referred to as “teamLab Planets”), produced by the international art collective teamLab, offers a distinctive art museum experience that integrates advanced digital technologies with natural elements. Visitors at this museum become part of the art itself, engaging with installations that transform based on human interaction. This article…
Uni, or sea urchin, is a luxurious rich and creamy delicacy that has become quite emblematic of Japanese seafood cuisine. Tokyo is a fantastic area to sample all types of this briny yet sweet delight that has become popular internationally. This article aims to serve as a guide to six of the best restaurants in Tokyo to go to for…
For anime fans traveling to Japan, there’s a must-visit shrine in the Yotsuya neighborhood of Tokyo. Suga Shrine is the real-life model for a crucial scene in Makoto Shinkai’s anime film Your Name. The Otokozaka stairs at Suga Shrine also appear in the film’s poster. Otokozaka stairs: a constant photo hotspot for visitors to Suga Shrine Due to the film’s…
Omurice (also known as “omelet rice” in English), is a must-try when visiting Japan. The dish that consists of a fluffy egg omelet wrapped around seasoned fried rice is just as visually pleasing as it is delicious! This article will serve as a guide on where to find six of the tastiest and most aesthetically charming omurice in Tokyo! Classic…
Hamburger steaks, sometimes also called hamburg steaks (and known as hambāgu in Japanese), have become one of Japan’s hottest dishes among international travelers. Tokyo boasts so many restaurants offering these succulent patties made from ground meat and delicious seasonings, it can be hard to decide on one! This article will serve as guide on five of the best restaurants to…
Hatonomori Hachiman Shrine is located near the Japan National Stadium, a venue for international competitions. Filled with nature and dominated by a large sacred ginkgo tree, its grounds serve as a peaceful retreat for local residents. The shrine offers many attractions, including the Sendagaya Fujizuka, a replica of Mount Fuji, and the Shōgidō Hall, which houses a large shōgi (Japanese…
Shintoism believes that spirits reside in everything, from mountains and rivers to even household furniture. The benefits bestowed by the deities enshrined at Shinto shrines are varied, ranging from traffic safety and business prosperity to protection against evil. Among these, the improvement of financial fortune is one of the most sought-after blessings. Koami Shrine in Tokyo is renowned for its…
Tempura stands alongside sushi and ramen as a globally recognized jewel of Japanese cuisine. Some tempura estabishments, while embracing conventional choices like white fish—kisu (Japanese whiting) and the like—and standard vegetables such as eggplant and pumpkin, also venture into unique and unexpected ingredients. Among these innovators is “Tempura Hisago Ōsaki” (referred hereunder as “Tempura Hisago”), located just a ten-minute stroll…