The gastropub culture born in the UK is something foreign to Japan. Located in Roppongi, “THE PUBLIC SIX” is a restaurant that blends the cultures of British pubs and Japanese cuisine together. The menu centers around classic pub dishes with a Japanese twist! Pork chops inspired by Japanese home cooking THE PUBLIC SIX was created with the concept of “what…
Characterized by its spicy and numbing flavors from chili peppers and Sichuan peppercorns, tantanmen noodles are so popular in Japan that there are restaurants specializing in them. Although it originated from Chinese dan dan noodles, it followed its own path in Japan. “Souryutougyokudo Roppongi” is a popular restaurant in the lively Roppongi district of Tokyo, offering a variety of tantanmen…
“NAGASAKI TORUKO RICE SHOKUDO” (hereafter referred to as “Nagasaki Toruko Rice Shokudo”) is a restaurant that prides itself on using ingredients from Nagasaki Prefecture. The restaurant’s signature dish is the Nagasaki-originated Turkish rice, which is also the namesake of the restaurant. “Toruko” is how “Turkey” or “Turkish” is referred to in Japanese. While it doesn’t have any particularly strong ties…
Izakaya, traditional Japanese pubs, are one of the country’s unique culinary cultures. One key feature that best symbolizes these establishments is the nomihōdai, or “all-you-can-drink” service. This service allows you to drink as much as you want from a selection of specified drinks for a fixed fee, a common offering at these pubs.. At “Yakitori Marukin Shinjuku Honten” (hereafter referred…
Ramen comes in countless varieties, with new and unique creations emerging daily. “Salmon noodle 3.0” in Kagurazaka, Tokyo, is a popular ramen shop which has been in the spotlight. It’s known for its ramen featuring salmon both in the soup and toppings. By using French culinary knowledge and techniques, the restaurant aims to offer “a more casual way to experience…
Located in the popular Ginza neighborhood of Tokyo, “Kagoshima Karen Ginza-ten” (hereafter referred to as “Kagoshima Karen”) offers exceptional service for international guests. Managed by the Kagoshima Federation of Economic and Agricultural Cooperatives, the restaurant is renowned for its dedication to showcasing the finest products Kagoshima Prefecture has to offer, and most notably the prized Kagoshima Kuroushi brand of wagyū…
Visiting an onsen (hot spring) or sentō (public bath) is a quintessential Japanese experience. By respecting the rules, understanding proper manners, and considering health tips, you can ensure a pleasant experience for everyone. Here’s a guide to help you prepare. The rules and manners for using these baths are rooted in the idea that the bathwater should remain as clean…
Kamakura in Kanagawa Prefecture is a popular tourist destination with many temples and shrines that date back to ancient times. Each temple and shrine has its own attractions, but Hōkokuji Temple (which introduces itself in English as “Houkokuji Temple”) is especially known for its beautiful bamboo grove. Enjoy the seasonal beauty of Houkokuji Temple’s Japanese garden As you pass through…
When visiting the highly popular sightseeing area of Hakone in Japan, a trip to Hakone Shrine is a must. The “Torii Gate of Peace” (heiwa no torii), which appears to float upon Lake Ashinoko, is a famous photo spot, with long lines of people waiting for a chance to take pictures. The Torii Gate of Peace Mountain deities enshrined at…
Visiting Shinto shrines and Buddhist temples in Japan is a rewarding experience, offering insights into the country’s cultural traditions and practices. Here are practical tips and answers to common questions for first-time visitors. Goshuin: special seals at shrines and temples Goshuin are special seals collected from shrines and temples, usually kept in a goshuinchō (seal book). These beautiful mementos serve…
Japan beckons travelers with its rich tapestry of culture, where ancient traditions seamlessly blend with modernity. Among the many experiences awaiting them are places of worship devoted to Buddhism and Shintoism, Japan’s ancient religion. Here’s a guide to assist international visitors with the proper manners and etiquette for paying respects at Shinto shrines and Buddhist temples. Before you visit Dress…
For lovers of super spicy ramen in Japan, “Kikanbō” is well-known hot spot. In 2022, Kikanbo branched out to open a curry specialty restaurant called “Karashibi Curry Kikanbō!” “鬼金棒カラシビカレーライス,” Karashibi Kikanbo Curry Rice 1,100 JPY (tax included) Much like the ramen shop, the flavor cherished at Karashibi Curry Kikanbo is the spiciness of chili peppers and the numbing sensation of…
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…
Kōtoku-in, a temple in Kamakura, is widely renowned for its Great Buddha statue. The official name of Kamakura’s Great Buddha in Japanese is dōzō amida nyorai zazō, otherwise known as the Bronze Seated Amida-butsu (Amitabha Buddha). It is the only Buddha statue in the area designated as a National Treasure of Japan. The Great Buddha of Kamakura – the only…
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…