In the peak of summer heat—July and August—there’s a perfect place to cool down that you’ll definitely want to visit. That place is Hachiya, a specialty cafe devoted to the fragrant world of Japanese tea. Here, you can enjoy premium teas like matcha, hōjicha (roasted green tea) and sencha green tea, paired with beautifully crafted Japanese-style sweets that are not…
Sōmen is a traditional Japanese noodle dish made from wheat flour, known for its thin, delicate noodles—thinner than udon or ramen. Thanks to its light, refreshing texture, somen is especially popular in summer when appetites tend to drop due to the heat. It’s considered one of Japan’s classic seasonal dishes. Recently, more and more creative takes on somen have emerged,…
Ramen, one of Japan’s most beloved evolving food cultures, has become a national culinary icon. Walk the streets of Tokyo, and you’ll find quietly tucked-away ramen shops cherished by locals for years. Just one station from Shinjuku, nestled in a peaceful alley in Yoyogi, “Menkoidokoro Isoji” is a well-known ramen gem among those in the know. Menkoidokoro Isoji has 10…
Wagashi are traditional Japanese sweets with over 2,000 years of history, embodying Japan’s unique culinary cultural heritage. Crafted to reflect the changing seasons and complement tea, their elegant appearance and refined sweetness captivate both locals and tourists. Today, varieties like mochi-based, steamed, baked, and molded sweets offer diverse seasonal flavors. This article explains wagashi’s essentials, types, and selection tips for…
Anpan is a quintessential Japanese sweet bread, featuring soft dough filled with sweet anko (red bean paste). A portmanteau of an (bean paste) and pan (bread), it has been beloved since its creation in the Meiji era. Sold at bakeries nationwide, it comes in varieties like tsubu-an (chunky red bean paste), koshi-an (smooth red bean paste), and shiro-an (white bean…
Japanese snacks captivate people worldwide with their unique flavors and vast variety. From time-honored wagashi (traditional Japanese sweets) to modern Western-style confections, Japan’s rich food culture has created a diverse snack world. Exploring these treats offers visitors a deeper understanding of Japanese culture. This article covers the characteristics, popular genres, and souvenir selection tips for Japanese snacks. Characteristics and cultural…
Nestled in the heart of Tokyo’s Shibuya, Yoyogi Park offers lush greenery and an open, inviting atmosphere. On weekends, it hosts vibrant events showcasing cultures from around the world. These free-entry events, open to all, feature street food stalls, music, and dance, creating unforgettable travel memories. Discover the best monthly events at Yoyogi Park to pair with your Tokyo sightseeing….
In Japanese sushi culture, toro (fatty tuna) remains a beloved, exceptional ingredient. Its melt-in-the-mouth texture and rich flavor captivate sushi enthusiasts, making it a rare cut of maguro (tuna). However, toro is divided into the grades of chūtoro (medium fatty tuna) and ōtoro (extra fatty tuna), each with distinct characteristics and flavors. This article explains toro’s basics, the differences between…
Ōtoro (extra fatty tuna) is renowned as one of the most luxurious ingredients in Japanese high-end sushi. Sourced from the tuna belly, this exceptional cut captivates food connoisseurs with its rich fat and melt-in-the-mouth texture. Globally famous, this rare cut, comprising only a small fraction of a maguro (tuna), is a hallmark of Japanese culinary culture due to its beautiful…
Chūtoro is one of the most beloved ingredients in Japanese tuna sushi and sashimi culture, a balance between akami (lean meat) and ōtoro (extra fatty tuna). Its exquisite balance of both flavors makes it truly appealing. With sushi’s rising popularity among international visitors to Japan, more people are captivated by chutoro’s deep flavor and texture. This article explores chutoro’s essential…
For international travelers visiting Japan, tasting maguro (tuna) served as sushi or sashimi is a must-try culinary experience. However, did you know that maguro varies greatly in name, flavor, and price depending on its cut or type? In Japan, maguro’s various cuts are meticulously classified, each prepared to highlight its unique characteristics. This article covers essential knowledge for fully enjoying…
In recent years, omurice (omelette rice) has gained popularity both within Japan and abroad. Omurice is a Japanese-origin dish made by wrapping stir-fried rice in an omelette and topping it with ketchup, demi-glace sauce, or other condiments. Its beautiful appearance and gentle flavors have captured the hearts of people across generations and countries. One especially popular spot is “ESPRESSO D…
“Warner Bros. Studio Tour Tokyo – The Making of Harry Potter” (referred to hereafter as “Harry Potter Studio Tour Tokyo”) opened in Tokyo on June 16, 2023. This entertainment facility offers an up-close experience of the behind-the-scenes world of the globally acclaimed Harry Potter series and the Fantastic Beasts film series. Following the original Harry Potter Studio Tour in London,…
Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone, first published in the UK in 1997, launched the globally celebrated seven-volume “Harry Potter” series. From the protagonist Harry to his close friends Ron and Hermione, the story is filled with captivating characters. The intricately crafted world brings the magic to life and continues to enchant fans across the globe. At Warner Bros. Studio…
Ohagi, a traditional Japanese sweet said to have been enjoyed since the Kamakura period (1185 to 1333), is typically made from sweet rice and red bean paste.Depending on the season or region, it may also be known as botamochi. These confections, deeply rooted in Japan’s spiritual customs, were traditionally enjoyed during Ohigan, a Buddhist holiday celebrated during the spring and…