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…
Japan is home to approximately 90 zoos affiliated with the Japanese Association of Zoos and Aquariums. Among them, “Ueno Zoological Gardens,” (hereafter referred to as “Ueno Zoo”) located in Taito-ku (Taito Ward) Tokyo, boasts the longest history. Ueno Zoo Main Gate Despite being located in an urban area, the zoo is home to approximately 300 species and 3,000 animals living…
Japanese parfaits are as much a feast for the eyes as they are for the palate. Whether you’re a fruit lover, matcha enthusiast, or someone seeking unique Japanese sweets, these hand-picked spots will take your dessert experience to the next level. Here’s your ultimate guide to Tokyo’s top parfait destinations! Authentic matcha delights: Kyo Hayashiya Takashimaya Times Square “Kyo Hayashiya,”…
Gyoza, Japan’s beloved dumpling dish, offers endless possibilities for flavor and texture. Whether you crave the classic pan-fried variety, innovative twists, or plant-based options, Tokyo has a rich gyoza scene to explore. In this guide, we’ll take you to seven must-visit spots where these delectable dumplings shine. Unique and creative gyoza: Shinjuku Kakekomi Gyoza “Shinjuku Kakekomi Gyoza,” located in Shinjuku’s…
Tokyo is a culinary paradise for katsu lovers, from classic tonkatsu to hearty katsu rice bowls and juicy beef katsu. This guide highlights some of the city’s best spots to enjoy these crispy, flavorful delights that have become a worldwide beloved dish! The ultimate Tonkatsu with perfect sauce in Roppongi: Butagumi Shokudou Located in Roppongi, “Butagumi Shokudou” is a tonkatsu…
Tokyo is a paradise for spice lovers, offering a variety of dishes that pack a fiery punch. From rich, spicy ramen to bold and flavorful curries, the city has something to satisfy every heat-seeking palate. In this guide, we’ll introduce some of the best spots to enjoy spicy food in Tokyo, guaranteed to ignite your taste buds. Take on the…
Izakayas are casual Japanese pubs offering a relaxed atmosphere where you can enjoy great drinks, and dishes such as delicious chicken skewers and fresh seafood. In this guide, we’ll introduce some of the best izakayas in the city, where you can enjoy a memorable evening of food and beverages! Affordable all-you-can-drink yakitori bar: Yakitori Marukin Shinjuku Honten “Yakitori Marukin Shinjuku…
Tokyo is a culinary paradise, offering something for everyone—including those seeking halal-friendly dining options. From rich, flavorful ramen to premium wagyu beef, discover some of the best halal-certified restaurants where you can enjoy authentic Japanese cuisine with peace of mind! Spicy halal chicken and ramen: Honolu Ebisu Looking for ramen that combines spice, halal authenticity, and fried chicken? “Halal ramen…
Located in the Yushima area of Tokyo, just a short walk from Ueno Station, “Shisen Tantanmen Aun Yushima” (hereafter referred to as “Aun”) is a name known by every enthusiast of tantanmen (the Japanese version of Szechuan dandan noodles)—a legendary establishment. Today, shops specializing in dandan noodles are not uncommon. However, Aun has been serving customers since a time when…
Jingisukan, a Japanese transliteration of Genghis Khan, is a unique dish of mutton or lamb grilled on a dome-shaped skillet. It’s a signature delicacy of Hokkaidō, a major island in Japan’s northern region, and many visitors to the area seek it out. Founded in 1954, “Jingisukan Daruma Ueno Okachimachi” (referred to hereafter as “Jingisukan Daruma”) is a renowned establishment with…
Matcha, the finely powdered green tea used in traditional Japanese tea ceremonies, has become a popular ingredient in sweets across Japan. In Tokyo, you can find a variety of matcha-infused treats, from creamy desserts to delicate pastries, that highlight the rich, slightly bitter flavor of this iconic tea. Whether you’re a matcha enthusiast or trying it for the first time,…