With its smooth texture and aroma that deepens with every bite, soba is one of the most delicate and profound dishes in Japanese cuisine. Everything—from the unique characteristics of buckwheat flour by region, to the ingredients used in the dashi broth, to the skill of the artisan—comes together to define its flavor. Soba became widespread during the Edo period (1603-1868)…
Conveniently located near Tokyo Station and Ginza Station, Shimbashi has long been known and loved as a classic after-work drinking district for Japan’s office workers. Even today, it remains lively day and night, weekdays and weekends alike. Shimbashi Ekimae Building, directly connected to Shimbashi Station’s Shiodome Exit via an underground passage, is home to some of the area’s most authentic…
The Tsukiji Outer Market is a popular destination for tourists seeking fresh seafood. Located right at the entrance of the market at the Tsukiji 4-chōme intersection is “Tsukiji Sushiiwa Tsukijishiten” (hereafter referred to as “Tsukiji Sushiiwa”), a historic sushi restaurant founded in 1921. This esteemed restaurant is known for offering traditional Edomae sushi crafted with expert technique, all in a…
Shimbashi is one of Japan’s most prominent business districts. With a long history as a transportation hub—it was where Japan’s first railway opened—it boasts easy access to key areas like Ginza and Haneda Airport. As a result, many major corporations and media companies have established offices here. The district is characterized by a unique mix of sleek skyscrapers and retro…
Shimbashi, one of Tokyo’s major business districts, offers excellent access to places like Ginza, Shibuya, Shinagawa, and Haneda Airport, thanks to the JR Yamanote Line and several other train lines. After World War II, Japan’s largest black market sprang up in front of Shimbashi Station. As Japan entered its period of rapid economic growth, the area evolved with the construction…
Mount Misen, the tallest peak on Miyajima Island, not far from Hiroshima, Japan, offers hikers an unforgettable mix of panoramic views, lush forests, and spiritual heritage. Rising 535 meters (1,755 feet) above sea level, this mountain is not just a scenic gem but a sacred site steeped in history. Whether you’re a seasoned trekker or a casual walker seeking fresh…
Miyajima Island, also known as Itsukushima, is one of Japan’s most enchanting destinations. Located in Hiroshima Bay, this small island is famed for its spiritual ambiance, scenic landscapes, and iconic floating torii gate. While major landmarks like Itsukushima Shrine and Mount Misen draw thousands of visitors, understanding the best ways to get to and around the island—as well as what…
Miyajima Island, officially known as Itsukushima, is a spiritual and scenic treasure nestled in the Seto Inland Sea of Hiroshima Prefecture. Famous for the iconic “floating” torii gate of Itsukushima Shrine, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is a must-visit destination that seamlessly blends natural beauty with centuries-old tradition. This guide follows a step-by-step walking route that highlights both the spiritual…
With so many distinct neighborhoods in Tokyo, deciding where to stay can greatly influence your experience. Rather than listing each district’s features, this guide focuses on practical tips to help foreign visitors choose accommodations that match their travel goals, budget, and comfort preferences. Tips for choosing accommodations in Tokyo 1. Prioritize access to major train stations Efficient transportation is essential…
Located near Ginza, Tsukiji is one of Tokyo’s most popular tourist destinations. At the main attraction, the Tsukiji Outer Market, you’ll find around 460 restaurants and specialty shops where you can explore a wide range of flavors. Among them is “Tsukiji Unagi Shokudō,” a specialty restaurant where you can enjoy shinko unagi—premium young Japanese freshwater eel (Nihon Unagi), a traditional…
Fushimi Inari Taisha in Kyoto is known around the world for its breathtaking Senbon Torii—thousands of vermilion gates lining the forested trails of Mount Inari. But beyond the iconic photos lies a world rich in cultural symbolism and centuries-old spiritual traditions. From mysterious fox statues to charming fortune slips, the shrine offers a fascinating glimpse into the spiritual life of…
Few places in Japan capture the imagination quite like the vermilion gates of Fushimi Inari Taisha. While the shrine is world-famous for its Senbon Torii (Thousand Torii Gates), many travelers miss out on the full experience: hiking the entire trail up the holy Mount Inari. If you’re eager to explore beyond the photo-op at the base, this guide will walk…
Fushimi Inari Taisha is not only one of Kyoto’s most iconic destinations but also a deeply sacred site that has drawn pilgrims for centuries. While many visitors come to marvel at its famed torii gate tunnels, the true essence of this shrine lies in its 1,300-year history, architectural elegance, and spiritual resonance. In this article, we guide you through the…
The Tsukiji Outer Market developed alongside the former Tsukiji Fish Market, once known as Tokyo’s Central Wholesale Market. Even today, it continues to draw crowds from Japan and abroad, all in search of delicious seafood. One particularly lively spot in the Tsukiji Outer Market is “Maguroya Kurogin Tsukiji Honten” (hereafter referred to as “Maguroya Kurogin”). The shop is known for…
Western-style dishes centered on European cuisine have fused with Japanese ingredients and culture to create yōshoku—a uniquely Japanese style of Western food. For visitors from abroad, yoshoku offers a refreshing experience, while for Japanese people, it’s a comforting and familiar taste. Over time, yoshoku has become a firmly rooted local cuisine distinct to Japan. “Napolitan Spaghetti” at Kayashima in Kichijōji…