Just about an hour from Shinjuku in Tokyo, Mt. Takao offers a rare combination of easy access and rich natural beauty, drawing hikers and tourists all year round. In 2007, the mountain earned three Michelin stars, putting it firmly on the world’s travel map. With an elevation of 599 meters (approximately 1965.22 feet) and roughly 3 million visitors a year,…
Nestled slightly away from the hustle and bustle of Shibuya and Harajuku, the Ota Memorial Museum of Art houses and exhibits a magnificent collection of ukiyo-e artwork (traditional Japanese woodblock paintings and prints) collected by the late businessman Seizō Ota V (1893-1977). The museum boasts one of the world’s largest ukiyo-e collections, featuring masterpieces by renowned artists such as Katsushika…
As summer begins in Japan, kakigōri (shaved ice) appears on street corners and festival stalls, announcing the season’s arrival. Thinly shaved ice topped generously with colorful syrups, kakigori is a quintessential Japanese way to cool down. Once a summer festival staple, kakigori has grown into a dessert culture of its own, with specialty shops now dedicated entirely to it. While…
Drawn in by the charm of tradition and the delicate sweet aroma in the air, it’s easy to find yourself wandering into a wagashi (traditional Japanese sweets) shop during a stroll through the city. If there’s even an eat-in space, it’s the perfect excuse to take a short break. From masterfully crafted jōnamagashi (premium Japanese sweets) to seasonal anmitsu (a…
Matcha is now a globally recognized superfood, originating from Japan. It’s not only used for drinks, but also in sweets and even skincare products, with its popularity continuing to grow both in Japan and around the world. Especially outside of Japan, matcha is gaining attention as a healthy Japanese ingredient, and it’s not uncommon to see it sold at more…
Nestled beside JR Yamanote Line’s Harajuku Station, Yoyogi Kōen (Yoyogi Park) is a lush urban oasis. Transforming with the seasons, this park offers fresh discoveries with every visit. Here’s a helpful guide to its natural and cultural highlights, perfect for a spontaneous stop during your travels. Why visit Yoyogi Park Spanning about 540,000 square meters (133 acres), Yoyogi Park nurtures…
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….
“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…
Among Japan’s bustling Chinatowns, Yokohama Chinatown (Yokohama Chūkagai in Japanese) and Kobe Chinatown (Nankinmachi in Japanese, meaning ‘Nanjing Town’) reign supreme as the most celebrated, with Yokohama being the largest in the country and one of the oldest. Each showcases a vibrant fusion of Chinese heritage and Japanese urban life, featuring diverse cuisine, eclectic shops, and colorful architecture. When deciding…
If you’re visiting Japan, one experience not to miss is tasting its traditional alcoholic beverages — time-honored drinks that have been loved by locals for generations. There’s a wide variety of alcohol rooted in different regions and climates—some brands are available nationwide, while others are rare finds only available locally. From sake and shōchū to awamori (an Okinawan distilled spirit…
Tucked into the mountains of Miyazaki Prefecture, Takachiho Gorge is a geological wonder where the Gokase River carved its way through towering basalt cliffs. Shaped by ancient lava flows, these striking columnar formations form the dramatic setting for Manai Falls, which pours into the gorge and sends up a shimmering mist. The best way to experience it all is by…
Just south of Tokyo, Kamakura and Enoshima make for an easy and rewarding day trip—often paired together thanks to their close proximity and the scenic Enoden railway that links them. But while they share a train line, the two destinations offer very different experiences. Kamakura is rooted in history, known for its grand temples, samurai heritage, and serene shrines. Enoshima,…
Hiroshima, a city indelibly marked by history, has transformed from a site of tragedy into a vibrant symbol of peace and resilience. While best known for its poignant Peace Memorial Park, Hiroshima today is a dynamic, welcoming city with a rich cultural identity, excellent food, and easy access to natural beauty. For first-time visitors to Japan, it can be hard…
Tokyo’s skyline stretches endlessly, a dense mosaic of skyscrapers, shrines, and neighborhoods layered across the horizon. While most observation decks charge steep admission, the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building (TMGB)—known locally as tochō—offers something rare: panoramic views of the city from two free public observation decks. For first-time visitors, it’s a rare, cost-free chance to take in the sheer scale of…