When you think of Okinawa, what comes to mind? Pristine beaches, tropical breezes—and of course, deliciously unique local cuisine. Though Okinawa lies far south of Japan’s main islands, Tokyo has no shortage of places where you can experience its charm. From cozy hidden gems on quiet side streets to lively spots filled with Okinawan music, these restaurants are packed with…
Tokyo is bustling with visitors from around the world. As internationalization advances rapidly, one phrase you’ll notice more and more is “Vegan Friendly.” From cafes and restaurants to fast food chains, diverse vegan menus are now available, making Tokyo an increasingly welcoming city for travelers seeking plant-based cuisine. For international visitors, having more dining options is always a plus—especially for…
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…
Japan’s summer is celebrated through many traditional sights and flavors—but none quite embody the season like kakigōri (shaved ice). Thinly-scraped ice topped with vibrant syrups captures the essence of cool refreshment in one bowl. Kakigori in the making at Himitsudō Made by finely shaving ice and topping it with colorful syrups, kakigori is the quintessential summer sweet that brings a…
In a quiet corner of Ueno’s bustling entertainment district lies a discreetly signed shaved ice specialty shop: “Ueno Kakigōri Senmonten Yondaime Ōnoya Hyoushitsu” (hereafter “Onoya Hyoushitsu”). It operates during the day out of a space that becomes a bar after dark—an inventive use of space that adds to its charm. The highlight here is silk‑fluffy kakigōri (shaved ice) that melts…
Western cuisine was introduced to Japan in the mid-19th century and gradually adapted to suit local tastes, giving rise to yōshoku—a uniquely Japanese genre of Western-inspired dishes. Among these, omurice, a comforting blend of omelet and ketchup-flavored rice, remains one of the most beloved staples. At “Yoshoku Kurofunetei,” a long-established restaurant in Ueno, Tokyo, you can enjoy a classic omurice…
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,…
Okinawa soba is a beloved noodle dish that represents Okinawan cuisine, commonly eaten throughout the prefecture. With a unique flavor all its own, it’s distinct from both Japanese soba and ramen. “Miyara Seimen” is a rare Okinawa soba specialty shop in Tokyo, offering not only traditional Okinawa soba but also the hard-to-find Yaeyama soba, a regional variant seldom seen outside…
Known as one of Japan’s most famous cherry blossom spots, Ueno Park in Tokyo delights visitors when approximately 1,000 cherry trees throughout the park grounds and surrounding areas reach full bloom in spring. However, Ueno Park is not just a springtime attraction—it’s a destination that offers something year-round. In addition to Ueno Zoo, the park is home to numerous museums…
Standing soba restaurants, known as tachigui soba in Japan, are a uniquely Japanese fast food concept, serving one of Japan’s representative dishes – Japanese soba noodles – quickly and efficiently. “Sobadokoro Kameya” (referred to hereafter as “Kameya”) is one of the capital’s quintessential popular soba restaurants. The Okachimachi branch, located near Ueno’s Ameyoko shopping street in Taito-ku (Taito Ward), is…
In “Ueno Onshi Park” (hereunder referred to as “Ueno Park”), located in Taito-ku (Taito Ward) Tokyo, there are numerous temples and shrines worth visiting, including shrines with gorgeous and lavish decorations, and temples said to bring good financial fortune. With various temples and shrines situated close to one another, you could easily spend a whole day exploring them. Whether you’re…
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…
Ueno, located in Taito-ku (Taito Ward), Tokyo, is often referred to as the Museum District. The reason for this can be found in “Ueno Onshi Park” (hereafter referred to as “Ueno Park”), which is known as one of Ueno’s foremost tourist destinations. Museums and art galleries are scattered throughout the grounds of Ueno Park, all within walking distance. It’s the…