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,…
Yakitori (grilled chicken skewers) is a classic Japanese dish that brings out the simple, rich flavors of charcoal-grilled chicken. Whether seasoned with salt or coated in savory tare sauce, these skewers are a culinary cornerstone of any Japanese pub visit. In this article, we’ll explore some of Tokyo’s top yakitori spots, where you can enjoy this beloved dish in its…
“Unagi Kaneichi Higashi Ueno” (referred to hereafter as Kaneichi) opened its doors in the Ueno area of Tokyo in 1965. Since then, Kaneichi has been a part of Ueno’s landscape, specializing in unagi (Japanese freshwater eel) dishes with a sauce that has remained unchanged since its founding. “上うな重,” Premium Eel Box 3,500 JPY (tax included) A sauce unchanged since the…
Wagyū (beef sourced from specific Japanese cattle breeds) is a must-try for any meat lover visiting Japan. Globally renowned for its melt-in-your-mouth texture, exquisite taste, and unique marbling, it can be enjoyed in many different ways, from grilled yakiniku cuisine to hotpot cooking. In this article, we will introduce some of the best wagyu restaurants Tokyo has to offer, and…
Ueno, much like Shin-Okubo, is known as one of Tokyo’s more multicultural areas. Not only are there many restaurants with diverse atmospheres lined up, but many people who frequent and gather in Ueno are also multinational. Thanks to that, one of Ueno’s charms is the opportunity to encounter restaurants offering cuisine unusual in Japan. At “SANKYU HALAL JAPANESE FOOD,” you…
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…