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…
Conveniently located within walking distance of Tokyo Station is the Nihombashi Takashimaya S.C. (short for shopping center). The facility boasts over 100 shops, including high-end brands and restaurants, making it a popular destination for both locals and many visitors from overseas. In the shopping center’s annex, you’ll find the restaurant “Picoti Picota NIHOMBASHI Takashimaya S.C.” (hereinafter referred to as “Picoti…
In Japan, Kyoto is often strongly considered to be the home of matcha. However, if you’re thinking “you can’t get your hands on authentic matcha unless you visit Kyoto,” you would be quite mistaken! “Hibiya Hayashiyashinbē” (hereafter referred to as “Hayashiyashinbe”), is a place in Tokyo where you can savor genuine matcha. Drink in authentic matcha at Hayashiyashinbe The perception…
In Japan, you’ll find numerous specialty stores dedicated to omusubi, traditional rice balls. These specialty rice ball shops take great care in cooking the rice and selecting high-quality ingredients. The end results could even be considered luxurious treats. At the rice ball specialty shop called “Omusubi gottsu tabenahare Oshokujidokoro” (referred to hereafter as “Omusubi Gottsu Tabenahare”) in the Nakameguro area…
In Ebisu, there’s a restaurant called “Halal ramen & dining Honolu Ebisu” (referred to hereafter as “Honolu”) that offers something still quite rare in Japan – halal ramen. Honolu provides ramen that is free from pork and alcohol, making it suitable for Muslims. The halal-certified “Special Rich Chicken Ramen” is a gorgeous bowl of noodles The ramen at Honolu features…
“Yakiniku Yamawarau Omotesandou” (hereinafter referred to as “Yakiniku Yamawarau”) is a a restaurant in the Omotesandō area of Tokyo. There you can enjoy carefully selected wagyu as yakiniku, Japanese grilled meat cuisine. You can really savor and appreciate why wagyu is loved around the world through lunch sets and creative dishes. The fact that you can grill it yourself makes…
Tsukiji Uogashi Maguro Ichidai ecute Ueno is permanently closed. Ueno is a thriving area of Tokyo and popular with tourists. “Tsukiji Uogashi Maguro Ichidai ecute Ueno” (hereinafter referred to as “Maguro Ichidai”) is a restaurant located right in Ueno Station. It offers sushi and bowls using tuna, making it a highly recommended place, especially for foreign visitors exploring Tokyo. Enjoy…
Akihabara is globally renowned as a haven for Japanese subcultures, but it’s also an area that is home to various genres of restaurants. Akihabara Caligari is a curry restaurant that attracts a constant stream of customers within Akihabara. “アキバ盛りカレー１,” Akiba Mori Curry 1, lunch: 1,230 JPY (tax included) / dinner: 1,460 JPY (tax included) The must-try menu at popular curry…
Asakusa is a hugely popular area in Tokyo bustling with many tourists. Located just a short distance from the area’s landmark Kaminarimon (“Thunder Gate”) is “Yanagi Chaya Asakusa Shin Nakamise-dōri” (hereinafter referred to as “Yanagi Chaya Asakusa”), a shop that is highly recommended for tourists exploring the area. Here, you can enjoy a wide variety of sweets and drinks made…
When traveling to Japan, many international visitors choose Tokyo as their base. As such, understanding how to navigate from the airports to the central hotel areas in Tokyo is crucial. Considering the various transportation options available, this article aims to provide a comprehensive guide to help you choose the best method based on your needs. Access from Haneda Airport Haneda…
A hub of Japanese youth culture and fashion, 渋谷 Shibuya is a bustling commercial and entertainment district located in the heart of Tokyo. It is known for its vibrant atmosphere, trendy fashion boutiques, and iconic pedestrian scramble crossing. The fast-paced area is host to a number of trendy fashion shops, as well as an eclectic selection of restaurants, cafes, and…
A quiet corner tucked in the heart of Tokyo, 谷根千 Yanesen is a quaint mosaic of three adjoining neighborhoods – 谷中 Yanaka, 根津 Nezu, and 千駄木 Sendagi. It stands as a testament to the city’s vibrant past, displaying a delightful blend of traditional architecture and picturesque landscapes. For those seeking an authentic slice of Tokyo’s history, Yanesen offers a tranquil…
Two of Tokyo’s most historically and economically significant neighborhoods, 日本橋 Nihonbashi and 丸の内 Marunouchi present a fascinating juxtaposition of tradition and modernity. Nihonbashi, literally translated as “Japan Bridge,” is a historic district that has been Tokyo’s commercial heart since the Edo period. The iconic bridge that gave the district its name was once the starting point of five major highways…
Known for its unique fashion, street art, and diverse cultural attractions, 原宿 Harajuku is very much the go-to stop to check the pulse of Japan’s lively subcultures. Harajuku is one of Tokyo’s brightest areas, offering a mix of shopping, food, and aesthetics sure to excite any traveler. Harajuku is known for its colorful street fashion. Access Harajuku’s main attractions are…