Asakusa is a hugely popular area in Tokyo bustling with many tourists. Located just a short distance from the area’s landmark Kaminarimon (“Thunder Gate”) is “Yanagi Chaya Asakusa Shin Nakamise-dōri” (hereinafter referred to as “Yanagi Chaya Asakusa”), a shop that is highly recommended for tourists exploring the area. Here, you can enjoy a wide variety of sweets and drinks made…
Originally cherished as a beverage, matcha has now found its way into various dishes beyond just drinks. At “Yanagi Chaya ecute Ueno,” located in Ueno, Tokyo, you can experience that matcha evolution by enjoying it in the form of sweets such as tiramisu and soft-serve ice cream. Melty and creamy “Uji Matcha Tiramisu” served in a traditional wooden Japanese sake…
As of 2023, Japan is seeing an increase in shops that offer kakigōri, a Japanese shaved ice dessert, throughout the year. One such place is “KAKIGORI CAFE&BAR yelo” (hereunder referred to as “yelo”) in Roppongi, Tokyo, which attracts crowds of shaved ice lovers all year round. The popular shop presents the idea that kakigōri is not just for cooling off…
Tucked away in Tokyo’s Shibuya ward, “nurikabe cafe SSS” offers a charming escape, an enchanting atmosphere and outstanding cheesecakes that have earned acclaim on social media. The ‘SSS’ in the name, pronounced esurī, stands for its “Shibuya” location while hinting at its “Specialty” offerings and unique “Space” with a secret hideaway vibe. “minichii（ピスタチオ）,” minichii (Pistachio) 380 JPY apiece (tax included)…
Matcha, a finely ground green tea, is more than just a drink in Japan—it’s a storied aspect of the country’s rich culture. Its velvety, complex flavor has won over enthusiasts around the globe. If you’re in Tokyo and craving an authentic matcha experience, look no further than “KYOTO SARYO SUISEN Shibuya PARCO” (hereunder referred to as “KYOTO SARYO SUISEN”). Situated…
Restaurant renamed to “Hokkaidō Menkoinabe Kumachan Onsen Shibuya” and operating with a partially revised menu. The restaurant “Hokkaidō Menkoinabe Kumachan Onsen” (hereafter referred to as “Kumachan Onsen”) opened for business in 2020 in Sapporo, Hokkaido, quickly becoming a go-to spot for single-serve hotpot meals. What’s fun about the name? Well, in local Hokkaido slang, menkoinabe means “cute hotpot,” and kumachan…
Located in the heart of Shizuoka Prefecture, a region famed for its tea cultivation, Maru Shichi Seicha Co., Ltd. (hereunder abbreviated as “Maru Shichi Seicha”), is a purveyor of fine teas across Japan. Since its humble beginnings in 1907, Maru Shichi Seicha has transcended the traditional role of a tea cultivator. The company cherishes every aspect of tea’s journey, from…
Just across the Shibuya Scramble Crossing from Shibuya Station lies “Shibuya Nishimura Fruits Parlor Dougenzaka-ten” (hereafter referred to as Nishimura Fruits Parlor). Since opening in 1936, it has been a beloved fixture in the Shibuya community. Fruit parfaits loaded with seasonal fruits At Nishimura Fruits Parlor, their guiding principle is “serving the best fruit at its peak season.” In practice,…
Although its name may evoke a simple coffee spot, Cafe Legato in Shibuya’s Dogenzaka area is a restaurant specializing in casual Italian cuisine. “渡り蟹のトマトクリームソース,” Crab with Tomato Cream Sauce 1,870 JPY (tax included) From its perch on the 15th floor, Cafe Legato offers panoramic views of Shibuya, and even a glimpse of Mount Fuji on clear winter days. The restaurant…
There are a few dishes that may be considered the norm in Japan but seen as a bit unusual from people in other countries. One of those is the fruit sandwich. To many Japanese people, the fruit sandwich may seem like a treat born overseas, but it appears to often be more commonly found in Japan. We had Steven, a…
In the realm of Japanese snacking, the role of 駄菓子 dagashi can’t be understated. These low-cost, fun-packed goodies serve not only as delicious treats but also as a nostalgic trip down memory lane. Imbued with elements of whimsy, dagashi is a true embodiment of joy and culture, making them an absolute must-try for first-time visitors to Japan. The following guide…