Yushima Tenmangu Shrine enshrines the deification of Sugawara no Michizane, scholar and poet of the Heian period (794-1185), and deity of academics, literature, poetry, calligraphy, and the arts. It’s well-known as a place where students come to pray for success in their entrance exams. Additionally, it’s famous for its beautiful plum blossoms. Notice the plum crest in the shrine grounds…
Tokyo’s winter season (December to February) brings crisp, cold weather, with temperatures ranging from chilly to brisk, but rarely extreme. To help you prepare for your trip, we’ve created a month-by-month packing guide to ensure you’ll be comfortable and ready to explore the city during this beautiful season. December in Tokyo December weather in Tokyo December in Tokyo marks the…
The Anamori Inari Jinja Shrine, located near Haneda Airport, is said to offer blessings for safe air travel and journeys. The nearest station is Anamori-Inari Station, just three stops away from Keikyū Airport Line’s Haneda Airport Terminal 1 and Terminal 2 Station, making it a convenient spot to visit during your travels. The shrine is known for offering various blessings,…
In the midst of a quiet residential neighborhood, there is a scene that looks as though time has stood still. Deep within the grounds of a temple, surrounded by lush greenery, stands a solid and majestic hall. This is Zōshigayakishimojindō, a Buddhist temple dedicated to the deity of safe childbirth and childrearing. You may find the scene familiar, as it…
December to February is winter in Japan, a magical season offering a combination of heartwarming cuisine, traditional events, and breathtaking scenery. Here are ten experiences that make the Japanese winter unforgettable. Seasonal Foods 1. Hearty winter hot pots Japan’s cold weather calls for a warm, nourishing hot pot, known as nabe in Japanese. For example, you can indulge in shabu-shabu,…
Ashikaga Flower Park is one of Japan’s most celebrated floral destinations, gaining worldwide attention for its breathtaking beauty. At the heart of this park lies the iconic wisteria flowers, which continue to captivate visitors from around the globe. The expansive wisteria trellises and tunnels are must-see attractions, offering an unparalleled visual spectacle that leaves a lasting impression. The wisteria experience…
Hot pot, or nabe ryōri in Japanese, is a delightful way to enjoy a communal meal that warms both body and soul. Types of Japanese hot pot Japanese hot pot features a variety of broths and ingredients catering to different tastes. Common broths include simple dashi made from kombu (kelp), rich chicken stock, or bases flavored with soy sauce or…
A Tokyo neighborhood known for its refined and stylish ambiance, Omotesando is home to “Men Ginza Onodera HONTEN,” a ramen shop that perfectly embodies the character of this chic area. Men Ginza Onodera HONTEN’s shoyu broth brings out the full flavor of each ingredient “麺 銀座おのでら 至高～supreme～,” Supreme ramen 2,200 JPY (tax included) Men Ginza Onodera HONTEN is the first…
Japan offers a wide variety of ramen, with some types only available in certain regions. Here are some of the best local ramen varieties to try. Hokkaido Sapporo Miso Ramen — Sapporo City, Hokkaido Sapporo miso ramen, originating in Sapporo City, features a rich, miso-based broth, complemented by thin noodles. Common toppings include bean sprouts and onions, reflecting the hearty…
Planning a trip to Japan? Here’s a detailed calendar to help you navigate Japanese public holidays, when transportation may be crowded, and store hours may vary. Japan’s holidays at a glance: Two-year calendar (2024-2025) Holiday 2024 2025 New Year’s Day January 1 (Mon) January 1 (Wed) Coming of Age Day January 8 (Mon) January 13 (Mon) National Foundation Day February…
Vegan cuisine, which excludes animal products like meat, fish, and honey, is sometimes perceived as bland or unexciting by those unfamiliar with it. However, a visit to “Cosme Kitchen Adaptation” in Shibuya, Tokyo, is sure to change that perception. Cosme Kitchen Adaptation’s signature dish packed with 20 Types of vegetables At Cosme Kitchen Adaptation, the must-try dish is the “All…
In the Nakameguro area of Tokyo, there’s a shop displaying a sign that says “Onigily Cafe” with a facade resembling a chic dessert cafe. It specializes in Japanese rice balls, a word usually spelled onigiri in English but intentionally stylized as “onigily” by the shop. The onigiri and side dishes offered here are made with carefully selected ingredients and are…
Sushi is almost always at the top of the list for international visitors wanting to experience Japanese cuisine. With time, we’ve seen more creative takes on traditional sushi, adding originality to the mix. In recent years, vegan sushi has developed as a new genre, and you can experience it at “Vegan Sushi Tokyo” in Shibuya. Vegan sushi with a focus…
When it comes to bakery shops, finding one that offers freshly made bread at any time of the day is a rare treat. At “dacō Nakameguro,” located in the trendy Nakameguro area of Tokyo, nearly 40 different types of bread are freshly baked or finished just before being served, ensuring that every bite is as fresh as possible. Not only…
When you visit Japan, staying in a hotel or ryokan (traditional inn) can offer a unique cultural experience, but navigating the language barrier can be challenging. Here are essential phrases to enhance your stay and communicate effectively with the staff. Feel free to use this article during your interactions with your hotel or ryokan and point out the phrases you…