Nestled in a lively corner of Asakusa, one of Tokyo’s most popular tourist districts, is “Kaminari Issa Asakusa Honten” (referred to hereafter as “Kaminari Issa”), a haven that captivates matcha lovers. This is a matcha sweets specialty shop. From eat-in menu items that can be slowly savored in the store to take-out menu items perfect for eating while walking around,…
Walking through the lively streets of Asakusa, your eyes are drawn to an array of matcha sweets that make you want to stop in your tracks. From cakes to crepes, puddings to parfaits, the variety is so abundant it’s overwhelming to choose. However, if you want to savor matcha made with carefully selected ingredients, you should definitely visit “Kaminari Issa…
Matcha has long been rooted in Japanese culture, from tea ceremonies to wagashi (traditional Japanese sweets). But this time-honored flavor has evolved in surprisingly creative ways with the times. In recent years, a wave of specialty matcha dessert shops has ushered in a new era of matcha sweets that blend Japanese tradition with Western innovation. Why not step into this…
In Japan, where the seasons are clearly defined, spring brings strawberries, summer offers watermelon and melon, autumn presents grapes, and winter delivers mandarins—resulting in a rich variety of seasonal fruits throughout the year. Fruits grown across Japan’s diverse climates each boast unique sweetness, aroma, and juiciness. “MARUTOME the Juicery Parfaiteria LUMINE Shinjuku” (hereafter referred to as MARUTOME the Juicery Parfaiteria”)…
Located at Japan’s southernmost point, Okinawa still preserves its unique culture today. That uniqueness is especially evident in its cuisine, which is quite different from what you’ll typically find in Tokyo or on the mainland. “Paikaji” is an Okinawan restaurant with six locations in Okinawa and two in Tokyo. It not only offers authentic Okinawan dishes, but also lets guests…
Discover the vibrant flavors of Okinawa, a tropical resort destination surrounded by the sea, without leaving Tokyo. With its own distinct cultural background, Okinawa has developed many one-of-a-kind dishes that stand out even among Japan’s diverse regional cuisines. One highly praised spot where you can enjoy authentic, high-quality Okinawan food in Tokyo is “Okinawa Sakaba Haisai Ginzaten,” (hereafter referred to…
Due to its unique historical background, Okinawa has developed a rich and distinct culture unlike that of mainland Japan. This includes a diverse food culture, and in recent years, more and more restaurants in Tokyo offer Okinawan cuisine. Among them, “Dachibin” in Kōenji stands out for its long-standing history. Founded in 1978, Dachibin has become a pioneer of Okinawan food…
When it comes to classic winter dishes in Japan, nothing beats nabe—hot pot. Made with a wide variety of simmered vegetables, meats, and seafood, nabe is a bubbling hot pot that warms both body and soul. Loved as a home-cooked comfort food, nabe also varies from region to region, with local ingredients and seasonings giving rise to an incredibly diverse…
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…
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…
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…
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…
“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…
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…
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…