Big Neko

かに地獄 新橋

How to Enjoy a Full Hokkaido Crab Feast in Shimbashi on a Budget

Shimbashi, one of Tokyo’s premier business districts, is a food lover’s paradise offering everything from casual izakaya to upscale restaurants. Standing right in front of Shimbashi Station’s Hibiya Exit (SL Square), the New Shimbashi Building is one of the area’s most iconic landmarks, known for its unique and deep-rooted atmosphere that continues to draw people in. Located on the second…

みやら製麺

This Tokyo Shop Keeps Classic Okinawa Soba Alive with Handmade Noodles

Okinawa soba is a beloved noodle dish that represents Okinawan cuisine, commonly eaten throughout the prefecture. With a unique flavor all its own, it’s distinct from both Japanese soba and ramen. “Miyara Seimen” is a rare Okinawa soba specialty shop in Tokyo, offering not only traditional Okinawa soba but also the hard-to-find Yaeyama soba, a regional variant seldom seen outside…

竹富島

The Perfect Okinawan Lunch in Tokyo? Try This Ginza Spot with All the Classics

Japan is a country of diverse cultures and culinary styles that vary by region. Among them, Okinawa Prefecture—the country’s southernmost region—boasts a unique culture that sets it apart from mainland Japan. This is especially evident in its rich and distinct food culture, with an impressive variety of local dishes. While Okinawan specialty restaurants have become more common in Tokyo in…

豚屋 鳥山

Enjoy Manga-esque Ultra-Thick Pork Steak and Local Izakaya Culture in Shimbashi!

Shimbashi is a fascinating Tokyo neighborhood where towering office buildings stand alongside down-to-earth eateries. One of the area’s signature sights is the crowds of office workers gathering each night to unwind after work. Connected directly to Shimbashi Station via an underground passage, Shimbashi Ekimae Building was built in 1966 and still retains its nostalgic, retro atmosphere. From the basement first…

海鮮丼 まるきた 2号店

Tsukiji’s Rare All-Day Spot for Seafood Bowls and Grilled Delights – Marukita 2nd Branch

“Kaisendon Marukita 2nd Branch” (hereafter referred to as “Kaisendon Marukita”) is a restaurant specializing in seafood bowls, as its name suggests (kaisendon meaning “seafood rice bowl” in Japanese). However, their grilled dishes and sashimi are just as popular, especially among international visitors! Located in Tokyo’s lively Tsukiji Outer Market, the shop offers a casual and energetic setting where you can…

The History of the Japanese Tea Ceremony: From Its Origins to Its Meaning Today

Sadō (Japanese tea ceremony) is drawing attention from around the world as a cultural tradition that embodies Japan’s unique sense of beauty and spirituality. This article provides a detailed historical overview—from tea’s introduction to Japan during the Nara period (710–794), through Sen no Rikyū’s refinement of the ceremony, up to the present day. Understanding the evolution of the tea ceremony…

Learn the Steps of the Japanese Tea Ceremony: Basic Rules to Know Before Your Trip

Sadō, traditional Japanese tea ceremony, is more than just the act of drinking tea—it’s a deeply refined art form that embodies hospitality, mindfulness, and seasonal beauty. For international visitors, experiencing the Japanese tea ceremony can become a highlight of their trip. However, for first-timers, the many steps and customs may feel overwhelming at first. This article breaks down the basic…

What Is the Japanese Tea Ceremony? Essential Culture & Etiquette to Know Before Visiting Japan

The Japanese tea ceremony, or sadō, is more than just a ritual of drinking tea—it is a comprehensive art form that embodies the spirit of omotenashi (hospitality) and refined etiquette. The act of preparing and serving matcha to guests reflects a deep spiritual awareness of silence, harmony, respect, and purity. This article introduces the key concepts, practical etiquette, and spiritual…

Tokyo Soba Guide: From Classic Traditions to Trendy New Spots

With its smooth texture and aroma that deepens with every bite, soba is one of the most delicate and profound dishes in Japanese cuisine. Everything—from the unique characteristics of buckwheat flour by region, to the ingredients used in the dashi broth, to the skill of the artisan—comes together to define its flavor. Soba became widespread during the Edo period (1603-1868)…

立ち呑み 庫裏

Authentic Standing Sake Bar in Shimbashi – Why Fans Love Tachinomi Kuri

Conveniently located near Tokyo Station and Ginza Station, Shimbashi has long been known and loved as a classic after-work drinking district for Japan’s office workers. Even today, it remains lively day and night, weekdays and weekends alike. Shimbashi Ekimae Building, directly connected to Shimbashi Station’s Shiodome Exit via an underground passage, is home to some of the area’s most authentic…

築地寿司岩 築地支店

Looking for Authentic Sushi in Tsukiji? Try This Historic Edomae Spot

The Tsukiji Outer Market is a popular destination for tourists seeking fresh seafood. Located right at the entrance of the market at the Tsukiji 4-chōme intersection is “Tsukiji Sushiiwa Tsukijishiten” (hereafter referred to as “Tsukiji Sushiiwa”), a historic sushi restaurant founded in 1921. This esteemed restaurant is known for offering traditional Edomae sushi crafted with expert technique, all in a…

ビストロカフェももてなし家

Crab, Sake, and Regional Japanese Cuisine—Discover a Local Favorite in Shimbashi

Shimbashi is one of Japan’s most prominent business districts. With a long history as a transportation hub—it was where Japan’s first railway opened—it boasts easy access to key areas like Ginza and Haneda Airport. As a result, many major corporations and media companies have established offices here. The district is characterized by a unique mix of sleek skyscrapers and retro…

郭 政良 味仙 東京ニュー新橋ビル店

Craving Spicy Ramen? Taste Nagoya’s Famous Taiwan Ramen at Misen in Shimbashi

Shimbashi, one of Tokyo’s major business districts, offers excellent access to places like Ginza, Shibuya, Shinagawa, and Haneda Airport, thanks to the JR Yamanote Line and several other train lines. After World War II, Japan’s largest black market sprang up in front of Shimbashi Station. As Japan entered its period of rapid economic growth, the area evolved with the construction…

築地うなぎ食堂

Unagi Lovers, Don’t Miss This Spot in Tsukiji – Serving Rare Young Eel!

Located near Ginza, Tsukiji is one of Tokyo’s most popular tourist destinations. At the main attraction, the Tsukiji Outer Market, you’ll find around 460 restaurants and specialty shops where you can explore a wide range of flavors. Among them is “Tsukiji Unagi Shokudō,” a specialty restaurant where you can enjoy shinko unagi—premium young Japanese freshwater eel (Nihon Unagi), a traditional…

まぐろや黒銀 築地本店

The Tsukiji Restaurant Tuna Lovers Can’t Quit! Maguroya Kurogin Serves Up Super Rare Tuna Cuts

The Tsukiji Outer Market developed alongside the former Tsukiji Fish Market, once known as Tokyo’s Central Wholesale Market. Even today, it continues to draw crowds from Japan and abroad, all in search of delicious seafood. One particularly lively spot in the Tsukiji Outer Market is “Maguroya Kurogin Tsukiji Honten” (hereafter referred to as “Maguroya Kurogin”). The shop is known for…