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Mount Takao Through the Seasons: A Guide to Enjoying Spring Blossoms, Summer Hikes, Autumn Leaves, and Winter Views

Located just under an hour from central Tokyo, Mount Takao (known in Japanese as Takaosan) offers an easy yet immersive escape into nature. With its well-maintained trails, panoramic views, and rich cultural heritage, Takao is a beloved day-trip destination for both locals and tourists. How dramatically it transforms with the seasons truly sets Mount Takao apart. Whether you’re chasing cherry…

Is Kabukicho Safe? A Complete Safety Guide for Tourists Visiting Tokyo’s Entertainment Hub

Stepping into Kabukicho’s neon-lit streets can feel like entering another world—one brimming with energy, flashing lights, and a hint of mystery. If you’ve ever wondered if Kabukicho is safe for tourists, you’re not alone. This bustling entertainment district in Shinjuku has long carried a reputation for late-night excitement—and, for some, a dose of apprehension. In this guide, we’ll cut through…

What Is Yakudoshi? The Ages of Misfortune in Japan Explained

Yakudoshi, often referred to as “the unlucky years,” is a well-known cultural belief in Japan. It centers around the idea that certain ages in life bring yaku, misfortune or bad luck. For both men and women, these ages are seen as turning points that might come with extra challenges, health issues, or life difficulties. While some consider it just a…

Udon Meets Thai Curry!? 3 Must-Try Dishes at Ginza Sato Yosuke

When you think of udon, thick, chewy noodles probably come to mind. But Inaniwa udon, a specialty from Akita Prefecture, is a bit different. Inaniwa udon, considered one of Japan’s three great udon varieties, is best known for its exceptionally smooth and silky texture. Its shape differs from typical udon, being much thinner, known for its pleasant texture on the…

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Tokyo’s Most Intense Miso Ramen? Try the Karashibi Heat at Kikanbo Ikebukuro

Ramen in Japan continues to evolve—but did you know there’s a genre known as karashibi or shibikara? Now a familiar term among ramen lovers, this spicy and numbing category appears to have been popularized by the trailblazer “Karashibi Miso Ramen Kikanbo.” In the restaurant’s name, the word kara comes from the Japanese word karai, meaning “spicy,” and refers to heat…

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Soupless, Flavor-Packed, and Totally Addictive – Don’t Miss This New-Gen Ramen in Shibuya

Soupless ramen varieties like mazesoba (mixed noodles), abura soba (oil noodles), and kamatama soba (hot noodles with egg) are among the popular genres in Japan’s evolving ramen culture. “Shibuya Mazesoba Chops” is a specialty restaurant where you can thoroughly enjoy soupless ramen in Tokyo’s trendsetting district of Shibuya. It’s also conveniently located near Shibuya Station. There are no strict definitions…

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You Won’t Believe This Is Standing Soba — Shinjuku’s Best Budget Bowl?

Soba is one of Japan’s most iconic traditional dishes. If you’re looking to enjoy authentic soba conveniently and at a reasonable price, tachigui soba (standing soba) restaurants are a great way to do so. Located near Shinjuku Station, a bustling area packed with shoppers and tourists, “Shinshūya Shinjuku minamiguchi” (referred to hereafter as “Shinshuya”) is one such stand-and-eat soba spot….

Local Food You Must Try Around Shinsaibashi-suji: A Guide by Dish Type

Shinsaibashi-suji is one of Osaka’s most famous shopping streets—but beyond the brand names and fashion, it’s a hidden goldmine for Japanese street food. For visitors new to Japan, this long covered arcade and its side alleys provide easy access to affordable, authentic local dishes. A brief history of Shinsaibashi-suji Spanning over 600 meters (1,969 feet), Shinsaibashi-suji stretches from Dōtonbori to…

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Where to Enjoy Premium Wagyu Shabu-Shabu and Fresh Uni in Shinjuku

Shabu-shabu, where thinly sliced beef is briefly dipped in dashi broth, is highly popular for its simple approach to enjoying the umami of meat and vegetables. It’s one of Japan’s most quintessential hot pot dishes. “Kin no Dashi Shabu Hachiuma Shinjuku Main Store” (referred to hereafter as “Hachiuma Shinjuku”) is conveniently located in the heart of Shinjuku’s Kabukichō area. It’s…

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Must-Try Miso Ramen in Shinjuku’s Ramen Battleground

Otakibashi Street, located near Shinjuku Station’s West Exit, is one of Tokyo’s most competitive ramen districts. In this area, “Misoya Hachiroshoten” (pronounced “hachirō shōten”) stands out with its distinctly original miso ramen that boasts enduring popularity. The restaurant is operated by “Nantsuttei,” a well-known ramen chain based in Kanagawa Prefecture. This chain is said to have popularized kuro māyu (black…

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Top Spot in Shinjuku for Wagyu Shabu-Shabu & Sukiyaki!

Japan’s wagyū beef has spread its delicious reputation throughout the world and has become a global brand. Shabu-shabu is a hotpot dish that allows you to enjoy the simplicity of wagyu’s flavor by briefly dipping and swishing it in broth, and enjoying it along with vegetables. Located in the bustling heart of Shinjuku’s Kabukichō district, “shabu-shabu sukiyaki steak NIIMURA” (referred…