Discovering Japan’s Rich Wood Tradition Japan’s wooden architecture is a stunning showcase of how tradition can blend seamlessly with innovation, drawing visitors from all around the planet. From the historic Hōryū-ji Temple to the charming villages of Shirakawa-gō, the use of wood in Japan is not just about building; it’s a deep reflection of a culture that holds a special…
In Japan, Kyoto is often strongly considered to be the home of matcha. However, if you’re thinking “you can’t get your hands on authentic matcha unless you visit Kyoto,” you would be quite mistaken! “Hibiya Hayashiyashinbē” (hereafter referred to as “Hayashiyashinbe”), is a place in Tokyo where you can savor genuine matcha. Drink in authentic matcha at Hayashiyashinbe The perception…
Oishī itadakimashita! At sushi restaurant “Tsukiji Sushikuro Ginza Inns” (hereunder referred to as “Tsukiji Sushikuro”), chefs enthusiastically exclaim this phrase, literally meaning “we’ve received a ‘delicious,’” every time a diner praises the food. This lively interaction is a staple of the culinary experience here. Following the success of its Yokohama Joinus branch, the restaurant opened for business at this location…
Many foreign tourists visiting Japan often come just to sample Japanese cuisine, especially sushi. “Kizuna Sushi,” a restaurant where you can enjoy all-you-can-eat sushi, is perfect for those looking to explore unique and unusual sushi toppings not commonly found abroad. All-you-can-eat tuna, sea urchin, and other premium sushi! At Kizuna Sushi, which has branches in Tokyo’s Akihabara and Shinjuku, you…
Hambāgu, or hamburger steaks, are incredibly popular in Japan. These succulent hamburger patties have undergone a somewhat unique evolution of their own in Japan, making them stand out compared to their overseas counterparts. “Steak and Japanese beef Matsuya Seinikuten” (hereunder referred to as “Matsuya Seinikuten”) is a hamburger steak restaurant that offers the perfect place to enjoy the distinctive Japanese…
Born in Japan, the rice burger swaps traditional bread buns for rice, encasing delicious fillings. “Rice Burger Shop OKOMEDOKI,” situated in the trendy Shibuya neighborhood of Tokyo, stands out as one of the rare eateries dedicated to this hybrid creation, serving up these burgers which have a close affinity with Japanese cuisine. A burger with rice?! The “OKD Double Cheese…
Located inside the JR Ueno Station ticket gate, “T’s TANTAN ecute Ueno” (hereinafter referred to as “T’s TANTAN”) is a restaurant that offers vegan-friendly ramen. At T’s TANTAN, the signature dish is the “Golden Sesame Tantan” noodles. Tantan is a Japanese dish resembling ramen that is inspired by the Sichuanese dish Dandan noodles. “T’sセット（金胡麻たんたん麺、全部野菜の焼き餃子１２個）,” T’s Set Golden Sesame Tantan +…
A beloved dish in Japan, yakitori, or skewered grilled chicken, is enjoyed by adults and children alike. Available at many taverns as well as specialty shops, it attracts a large number of customers. Neslted in the busy Shinjuku neighborhood of Tokyo, “Shinjuku Imaiya Honten” serves yakitori using Hinai chicken from Akita Prefecture. This free-range brand chicken is known for its…
There’s a place in Roppongi, Tokyo, where you can savor the special dishes of Kōchi Prefecture, presented right before your eyes in a kitchen brimming with life and excitement. This is “Warayakiya Roppongi” (hereafter referred to as “Warayakiya”), a unique restaurant boasting 16 branches, primarily within the Tokyo Metropolitan area. “名物 鰹のわらやき塩たたき,” Lightly grilled bonito 1,749 JPY (tax included) The…
In Japan, you’ll find numerous specialty stores dedicated to omusubi, traditional rice balls. These specialty rice ball shops take great care in cooking the rice and selecting high-quality ingredients. The end results could even be considered luxurious treats. At the rice ball specialty shop called “Omusubi gottsu tabenahare Oshokujidokoro” (referred to hereafter as “Omusubi Gottsu Tabenahare”) in the Nakameguro area…
Yakiniku, Japan’s beloved grilled meat cuisine, has captured the hearts of both locals and international food enthusiasts. In the bustling neighborhood of Shibuya, Tokyo, stands a remarkable example of this culinary tradition: “Ushikoi Shibuya.” Here, the philosophy is simple yet profound: “Turning the yakiniku you love into a luxury that’s within everyone’s reach.” At Ushikoi Shibuya, patrons are invited to…
With a history spanning over 270 years, tea specialty shop “Kyo Hayashiya” infuses the essence of a new era into its sweets while preserving the long tradition of tea. A Kyo Hayashiya Shinjuku branch exclusive! The “Matcha Parfait” At Kyo Hayashiya, you can indulge in their authentic “Matcha Parfait” made with matcha from Uji, the renowned tea-growing region in Kyoto….
Japan, brimming with culinary culture, is essentially a treasure trove of food. Many visitors from overseas specifically make eating their way through Japan a primary goal of their travels. There are many unique and original restaurants throughout the country, and one such place is the ramen shop “Nikujirumen Susumu” in Akihabara. “肉汁麺レベル３,” Nikujirumen Level 3 1,180 JPY (tax included) The…
Kabukicho, one of Japan’s premier entertainment districts in Tokyo, is not just a hub for locals but also a magnet for visitors of all nationalities. In the heart of Kabukichō, you’ll find “Tokyo Sushi ITAMAE SUSHI Shinjuku Toho Bldg.” (hereunder referred to as “ITAMAE SUSHI”), a bustling hotspot for international visitors, no matter what time of day or night. The…
In Japan, dagashiya typically refers to nostalgic neighborhood stores selling dagashi, low-cost candies and snacks made for children. However, in Tokyo’s cosmopolitan neighborhood of Roppongi, there’s a popular tavern named Dagashiya. The owner named it with the desire to create a place enjoyable even for adults. In the evenings, many customers visit to unwind after a day’s work, savoring dishes…