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Koko Hotel Tsukiji Ginza
@BmanLi
5/5 Must Stay| Great Location!
I would stay at this hotel again in a heart beat. I would pick to stay at this hotel over most Airbnbs now and, here are 6 of my reasons:
1. Location - Walking distance to Tsukiji fish market & Ginza. Walking distance to Tsumugi (See premium guide) 10 Min walk from 2 subway lines!
2. Food Convenience - Super market &a few conbini 2 min walk close
3. - Restaurants - Amazing French restaurant across the street. (Masa's Bistro)
4. Cleanliness - Staff was nice, it was clean, I can grab as much stuff as I needed (Toothbrush/toothpaste/mouthwash/tea etc)
5. Shower - The shower pressure was perfect, not too soft and not too hard.
6. New - The hotel is new and modern, I stayed here during my 2023 trip.
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谷町君Hotel 恵美須町72
@BmanLi
This is spacious hotel is a great option for your next stay.. It has everything I want, good location, clean and spacious bathroom, lots of space for suitcase and sleeping. a kettle to boil water and ultimately a great location.
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Hakone Ashinoko Hanaori (Onsen)
@BmanLi
5/5 Must Go |
I visited Ashinoko Hanaori Onsen in Hakone, Japan and was thoroughly impressed with its modern and clean facilities. The tranquil and serene atmosphere, beautiful views of Lake Ashi, and high-quality onsen experience provided the perfect setting for relaxation and rejuvenation. I particularly appreciated the resort's commitment to cleanliness, which added to my overall comfort and enjoyment of the experience.
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Renka-no-Yu On-Yado NONO Kyoto Shichijo
@BmanLi
An onsen that will give you stickers to cover your tatoo
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Yoshikawa
@BmanLi
In the heart of Kyoto and with a building that survived WW2. Dining is kaiseki typically with a variety of crunchy Tempura, and a nice view
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Fuji Kawaguchiko Onsen Hotel Konansou
@BmanLi
5 /5 Must Go |
Rooms are spacious, and you either get Mt. Fuji view or lake Kawaguchiko view. Food and the employees are super nice.
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Get pocket WiFi
Tokyo
teamLab Planets TOKYO
@BmanLi
5/5 Must Go |
TeamLab Planets Tokyo is a digital art museum where visitors can walk through water and interact with mesmerizing digital art installations that respond to their movements and touch. With no maps or instructions, visitors are free to explore and interact with the art in their own unique way. It's a one-of-a-kind destination that offers an immersive and unforgettable experience.
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Tokyo Joypolis
@BmanLi
4/5 Good for most people |
Tokyo Joypolis is a futuristic indoor theme park that offers a wide range of thrilling rides and attractions. With cutting-edge virtual reality technology and interactive games, visitors can experience a variety of unique and exciting adventures. From a haunted house to a roller coaster that travels through a futuristic city, Tokyo Joypolis is a must-visit destination for anyone seeking a fun and immersive experience.
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Unicorn Gundam Statue
@BmanLi
3/5 Optional to go |
The Unicorn Gundam Statue at Odaiba is a stunning and impressive piece of art that captures the imagination of visitors with its size and futuristic design. Standing at a towering 19.7 meters tall, the statue lights up at night, adding to the already impressive visual spectacle and making it a must-see attraction for anime and science fiction fans visiting Tokyo.
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Shibuya Sky
@BmanLi
4/5 Good to visit for most travelers |
Shibuya Sky is a breathtaking observation deck located on the top floors of the Shibuya Scramble Square building. From 229 meters above the ground, visitors can enjoy panoramic views of Tokyo's skyline and experience the thrill of walking by a glass wall.
Note: Truly a unique experience being that high up, Biggest con, wait times, and there isn't much to do other than the view + shopping. You need to buy tickets at least 2 weeks ahead of time.
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Meiji Shrine Sanshuden
@BmanLi
5/5 Must Go |
Meiji Shrine is a peaceful and serene oasis in the heart of Tokyo that offers a unique and immersive experience of Japanese culture and history. The tranquil surroundings, traditional architecture, and beautiful gardens make it a must-visit destination for anyone seeking a deeper understanding of Japan's rich heritage.
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Tsukiji Outer Market
@BmanLi
5/5 Must go |
Tsukiji Outermarket is a food lover's paradise, offering a wide range of culinary delights. Visitors can indulge in fresh sushi, sashimi, and other seafood dishes, as well as local specialties such as tamagoyaki (Japanese omelette), grilled seafood skewers, mochi (rice cake) desserts, seasonal fruits, and even Wagyu + Uni Skewers. With so many delicious options to choose from, it's the perfect place to sample Tokyo's vibrant food scene.
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Toyosu Market
@BmanLi
3/5 Optional to go |
Toyosu Market is a bustling and world-renowned seafood market in Tokyo that is famous for its tuna auction and fresh seafood restaurants. Visitors can witness the exciting tuna auction and enjoy some of the freshest and most delicious seafood in the city at the market's many restaurants. If you are not into tuna auction (Which you have to wake up early). Then this place might not be for you.
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Tokyo Skytree
@BmanLi
5/5 Must Go |
Tokyo Skytree is a must-visit attraction in Tokyo, offering breathtaking views of the city skyline from its observation decks located at 350 and 450 meters above ground. With its impressive height and modern architecture, it's a great spot for sightseeing, taking stunning photos, and enjoying a panoramic view of Tokyo.
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Sumida Aquarium
@BmanLi
5/5 Must Go |
Sumida Aquarium is a small but charming aquarium located in Tokyo that boasts a stunning collection of marine life from around the world, including jellyfish, penguins, and sea otters. With its informative exhibits, interactive displays, and breathtaking views of the Tokyo Skytree, it's a hidden gem for anyone interested in aquatic life.
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RED° TOKYO TOWER
@BmanLi
5/5 Must Go |
Red Tokyo Tower, located within Tokyo Tower, offers visitors a unique and immersive virtual reality experience. With a wide range of high-end VR games and attractions, it's the perfect place to escape into a virtual world and explore the latest in gaming technology while enjoying stunning views of Tokyo.
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Tokyo Tower
@BmanLi
3/5 Optional to go |
Tokyo Tower is a symbol of the city and a popular tourist attraction in Tokyo. With its impressive height of 333 meters, visitors can enjoy breathtaking views of the city from the observation deck.
Note: Tokyo Skytree, Tokyo Tower, Shibuya Sky, Tokyo Metropolitan Government building will all give you an amazing view, some will be preferred over others.
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Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building
@BmanLi
4/5 Good to go |
The Tokyo Metropolitan Building's observatory deck is a great place to take in panoramic views of Tokyo for free. Located on the 45th floor of the building, visitors can enjoy stunning views of the city, including famous landmarks like Tokyo Tower and Mount Fuji on clear days.
Note: It is free to go to the deck
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Ghibli Museum
@BmanLi
4/5 Good to go (non Ghibli fans)
5/5 Must go (Ghibli fans) |
The Ghibli Museum is a must-visit destination for any Studio Ghibli fan or animation enthusiast. From the whimsical architecture to the unique exhibits, visitors can immerse themselves in the enchanting world of Studio Ghibli and gain a deeper appreciation for the art of animation.
Note: Please be respectful, you aren't allowed to take video/pictures in some parts of the museum. Highly recommend pre-purchasing your tickets.
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Akihabara
@BmanLi
5/5 Must Go |
Akihabara is a unique and must-see experience for anyone visiting Tokyo or Japan. With its vibrant and eccentric atmosphere, it offers a one-of-a-kind glimpse into Japanese pop culture and technology. Whether you're a fan of anime, gaming, or simply want to explore a fascinating part of Tokyo, Akihabara is a destination not to be missed.
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Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden
@BmanLi
5/5 Must go (Especially during Sakura season) |
Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden is a tranquil oasis in the heart of Tokyo, featuring a stunning landscape of gardens, ponds, and cherry blossom trees. The garden offers a peaceful retreat from the bustling city, making it a must-visit for nature lovers and those seeking a moment of respite.
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Tokyo Disneyland
@BmanLi
4/5 Good to Go |
Tokyo Disneyland Japan's exceptional attention to detail, exclusive seasonal events, unmatched hospitality, and location in vibrant Tokyo make it a uniquely magical and unforgettable Disney experience that visitors of all ages will cherish.
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Tokyo DisneySea
@BmanLi
4/5 Good to Go |
Tokyo DisneySea Japan is an awe-inspiring and immersive theme park that offers a truly one-of-a-kind experience for visitors. With its incredible theming, top-notch attractions, and delicious food, it's no wonder that it consistently ranks as one of the best theme parks in the world.
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Sensō-ji
@BmanLi
3/5 Optional to go |
Sensoji Temple is a magnificent and historic Buddhist temple located in the heart of Tokyo's Asakusa district. With its striking red gates, impressive five-story pagoda, and rich cultural significance, it's an extremely busy temple to visit. If you are okay with being shoulder to shoulder, then this temple is a good place to visit.
Note: I highly recommend if you do come, go to the side streets away from the crowd. You will have a much better experience. There is also a beautiful flower garden away from the main crowd.
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Osaka
Osaka Castle
@BmanLi
5/5 Must Go |
At Osaka Castle, visitors can explore the castle's historical exhibits, climb to the top of the castle's observation deck for panoramic views of the city, enjoy the castle's surrounding gardens and park, participate in traditional Japanese cultural activities, and attend various seasonal events and festivals held on the castle grounds throughout the year.
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Dotonbori
@BmanLi
5/5 Must Go |
Dotonbori for its vibrant and energetic atmosphere, where they can enjoy a wide range of entertainment options, including street performances, shopping, and dining on Osaka's famous street food, such as takoyaki and okonomiyaki, in the midst of neon-lit signs and iconic landmarks.
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Universal Studios Japan
@BmanLi
4/5 Good to Go |
Universal Studios Japan is a world-class theme park that offers an incredible array of thrilling rides, immersive attractions, and top-notch entertainment. While the Florida counterpart has a larger footprint, Universal Studios Japan features unique attractions, seasonal events, and cultural experiences that make it a must-visit destination for anyone visiting Japan.
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Super Nintendo World
@BmanLi
4/5 Good to go |
Super Nintendo World is a vibrant and colorful theme park within Universal Studios Japan that immerses visitors in the world of Nintendo. From exciting rides to interactive experiences and delicious food, it's a dream come true for fans of Nintendo and video games.
Note: Once you enter the theme park, run straight to Super Nintendo world to book a time to enter the park. It gets very busy!
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Kuromon Ichiba Market
@BmanLi
4/5 Good to go |
Kuromon Ichiba Market is a must-visit for foodies and seafood lovers in Osaka, offering an abundance of fresh seafood, meats, fruits, and vegetables, as well as a variety of cooked dishes and snacks that can be enjoyed while strolling through the bustling market. The market is also a great place to learn about and experience the local food culture of Osaka.
There are a number of vendors that didn't survive through the lockdown, but it is still a great place to go!
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Namba Parks
@BmanLi
4/5 Good to go - Luxury Shopping mall |
Namba Parks in Osaka is a stunning shopping complex with an impressive design that incorporates a green rooftop garden, complete with a waterfall and walking trails. The complex offers a diverse range of shops, restaurants, and entertainment options, making it an ideal destination for a day or evening out in the city.
Be sure to visit the basement floor for their a foodie surprise
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Kyoto
Fushimi Inari Taisha
@BmanLi
5/5 Must Go |
Fushimi Inari Taisha is a unique and iconic temple in Kyoto, famous for its thousands of torii gates that form a stunning path up the mountain. The temple's mystical atmosphere, picturesque scenery, and rich cultural heritage make it an unforgettable experience for travelers visiting Kyoto.
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Kiyomizu-dera
@BmanLi
4/5 Great to go |
Kiyomizu-dera is a magnificent temple in Kyoto that offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city, surrounded by lush forest and traditional Japanese architecture. The temple's rich history, striking design, and serene atmosphere make it a must-visit destination for those seeking a truly immersive cultural experience in Japan.
During Autumn, you can visit for the Autumn Illuminations
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gion一穂
@BmanLi
4/5 Good to go |
Kyoto's Gion district is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in experiencing traditional Japanese culture. With its preserved historic streets, teahouses, and geisha performances, Gion offers a unique glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of Japan.
Note: great sight seeing and shopping area.
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Kinkaku-ji
@BmanLi
3/5 Optional to go |
Kinkaku-ji, also known as the Golden Pavilion, is a stunning temple in Kyoto with a majestic golden facade that reflects beautifully on the surrounding pond. I prioritize this lower than the other 2 temples, simply because this is less interactive
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Arashiyama Bamboo Grove
@BmanLi
3/5 Optional to go |
Arashiyama Bamboo Forest is a unique and tranquil natural attraction in Kyoto, offering a serene escape from the city's hustle and bustle. To fully enjoy the experience and avoid the crowds of tourists, it's best to visit early in the morning or later in the afternoon, preferably on a weekday. Visiting during the off-season, such as during the winter months, can also help avoid the peak tourist crowds. The forest's towering bamboo groves, soothing atmosphere, and stunning scenery make it a popular destination for nature lovers and photographers alike.
I have still never went inside the bamboo forest because of how busy it gets.
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Hakone
Hakone Ropeway Sounzan Station
@BmanLi
3/5 Optional to go |
The Hakone Ropeway is a cable car that takes you on a scenic journey over the Owakudani volcanic valley in Hakone, Japan. During the ride, you can enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and Lake Ashi. You'll also see the volcanic valley up close, with steam rising from the ground and the smell of sulfur in the air. On a clear day, you may even be able to see Mount Fuji in the distance.
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Hakone Ashinoko Hanaori (Onsen)
@BmanLi
5/5 Must Go |
I visited Ashinoko Hanaori Onsen in Hakone, Japan and was thoroughly impressed with its modern and clean facilities. The tranquil and serene atmosphere, beautiful views of Lake Ashi, and high-quality onsen experience provided the perfect setting for relaxation and rejuvenation. I particularly appreciated the resort's commitment to cleanliness, which added to my overall comfort and enjoyment of the experience.
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Restaurants
Bills Omotesando
@BmanLi
5/5 Absolutely Must Go |
Bills Omotesando is a popular Australian restaurant that serves a variety of breakfast and brunch dishes, including their famous ricotta hotcakes. The food is fresh, flavorful, and served in a modern and inviting atmosphere, making it a great spot to start your day in Tokyo.
Note: It is a must eat every time I visit Japan. If you have the option to, highly recommend booking a reservation ahead of time.
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Tsuta
@BmanLi
4/5 Good to go |
Tsuta Ramen Tokyo is a Once Michelin-starred ramen restaurant known for its truffle-infused shoyu ramen. The broth is flavorful and the noodles have the perfect texture, making it a must-try for ramen lovers.
It lost it's Michelin star, but it is a place where you can eat Michelin quality but not have to line up for it.
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Ichiran-Ramen Dotonbori
@BmanLi
5/5 Must Go |
Ichiran Ramen is a popular chain store with many locations in Japan and around the world, known for its ability to customize your bowl of noodles according to your preference. From the richness of the broth to the spiciness of the sauce and the firmness of the noodles, every aspect of the dish can be tailored to create a unique and satisfying culinary experience. In addition, the restaurant has an app for Japanese people, for loyalty. While the quality of the broth and other ingredients may vary slightly, it's a great option for a quick and delicious meal, especially for ramen lovers.
Note: This is not the best ramen in Japan, but it is a great ramen to have especially for first timers.
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Sato Yosuke Ginza Inaniwa Udon
@BmanLi
5/5 Must Go |
! Sato Yosuke Ginza Inaniwa Udon's udon noodles are renowned for their delicate and chewy texture, which is achieved through a traditional hand-stretching technique that has been passed down for generations. The restaurant's elegant and refined atmosphere, complete with attentive service and comfortable seating, adds to the luxurious and enjoyable dining experience.
One of my personal favourite Udon places, perfect if you are looking for more of a local experience.
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Gyūkatsu Motomura
@BmanLi
4/5 Good to go |
Gyukatsu in Shibuya is a must-visit restaurant for meat lovers, as it specializes in deep-fried beef cutlets that are crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside. The cozy atmosphere and friendly staff make it a great spot for a casual meal with friends or family.
Note: The line and wait can be long so, if the line looks long and you are hungry. I recommend going elsewhere. Otherwise a great place to go!
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Oden Stall @ Kuromon Market
@BmanLi
5/5 Must Go |
If you wander around Kuromon, you will see a stall that sells Oden and smells wonderful. I highly recommend getting food from that stall
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Kiwamiya
@BmanLi
4/5 Good to Go |
Once you walk by this restaurant, you will smell the intoxicating smell of cooked beef. There is always a line up here, and I do recommend going. It is teppanyaki and cook your own meat. A lot of fun, and food tastes good.
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Isomaru Suisan Shibuya udagawacho
@BmanLi
5/5 Must Go |
Isomaru Suisan is a popular seafood restaurant in Japan, known for its lively atmosphere and delicious grilled seafood. Their standout dish, the crab fried rice, is made with succulent crab meat, scrambled egg, and diced vegetables, cooked on a sizzling iron plate, and seasoned with soy sauce and butter, making it a must-try for seafood lovers in Shibuya.
Note: It is 24 hours
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Jikasei MENSHO
@BmanLi
4/5 - Good to go |
Jikasei MENSHO is a fantastic ramen spot in Tokyo, offering a unique and customizable dining experience. With its flavorful broth and variety of toppings, including melt-in-your-mouth wagyu chashu and crispy garlic chips, it's a must-visit for ramen enthusiasts looking for a high-end twist on the classic dish.
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Sosakumenkobo NAKIRYU
@BmanLi
5/5 Must Go |
Nakiryu is a must-visit for ramen lovers in Tokyo, boasting a Michelin star for its flavorful and innovative take on the classic dish. With its rich broth, handmade noodles, and unique toppings, such as Szechuan-style spicy minced pork, it's an unforgettable culinary experience.
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Soba House Konjiki-Hototogisu
@BmanLi
5/5 Must go |
The original Konjiki restaurant on the Michelin Guide. I haven't gone yet, but it is highly on my to go list.
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Blue Bottle Coffee - Shibuya Cafe
@BmanLi
3/5 Optional to Go |
Blue Bottle Cafe is a popular coffee chain in Japan, known for its high-quality beans and meticulous brewing methods. With its sleek and modern interiors, friendly staff, and delicious coffee and pastry offerings, it's a great spot for a quick caffeine fix or a relaxing coffee break.
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Starbucks Coffee - Kyoto Ninenzaka Yasaka Chaya
@BmanLi
3/5 Optional to go |
Starbucks Coffee at Ninenzaka Yasaka Chaya in Kyoto is a unique and charming coffee shop, housed in a beautifully restored traditional Japanese teahouse. With its serene atmosphere, stunning views of Yasaka Pagoda, and exclusive menu items, such as matcha latte with white mochi, it's a must-visit for coffee lovers and culture enthusiasts.
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Tempura Endo Yasaka (North)
@BmanLi
5/5 must go
If you are looking for a tempure restaurant in Kyoto. This is a must go, you will get to enjoy a variety of Tempura dishes in a historic site. Every tempure dish is fried to the golden yellow perfection. Every bite is crunchy yet juicy on the inside.
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Gyoza ChaoChao (Shijo-Kawaramachi Branch)
@BmanLi
4/5 great to go.
Gyoza restaurant is kyoto. One of the highest rating restaurants in kyoto for gyoza. It's a must try
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Takashimaya Times Square
@BmanLi
5/5 Must Go |
Takashimaya Times Square is a popular shopping destination in the heart of Tokyo, offering a wide selection of high-end fashion, cosmetics, and gourmet food. With its luxurious atmosphere and excellent customer service, it's a great spot for indulging in some retail therapy and discovering the latest trends.
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Kirby Café
@BmanLi
3/5 Optional to Go |
The Kirby Cafe in Tokyo is a dream come true for fans of the beloved video game character. With its adorable Kirby-themed menu items and whimsical decor, it's a fun and unique dining experience for gamers and foodies alike.
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Doner Kebab House
@BmanLi
4/5 Good to go |
Doner Kebab in Akihabara is a must-visit for anyone craving delicious and affordable Turkish street food in Tokyo. With its generous portions of tender meat, fresh vegetables, and flavorful sauces, it's the perfect spot for a quick and satisfying meal on the go.
Note: They are open later than most places there.
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Shiro-Hige’s Cream Puff Factory
@BmanLi
3/5 Optional to go |
Shiro-Hige's Cream Puff Factory is a delightful bakery in Tokyo that offers some of the most delicious and adorable cream puffs, with a Totoro twist. From their cute Totoro-shaped cream puffs to the delicate and creamy fillings, it's a must-visit spot for any Studio Ghibli fan or dessert lover.
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Sushi Dai
@BmanLi
4/5 Good to go |
Sushi Dai, a legendary sushi restaurant that used to be located in Tokyo's Tsukiji Fish Market, has relocated to Toyosu Market and continues to serve some of the freshest and most delicious sushi in the city. With its reputation for excellence, long lines, and limited seating, it's a must-visit spot for sushi enthusiasts visiting Tokyo.
Note: You may have to line up early to get a seat at this restaurant
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Daiwa Sushi
@BmanLi
4/5 Good to go |
Daiwa Sushi in Toyosu Market is a highly acclaimed sushi restaurant that serves some of the freshest and most flavorful sushi in Tokyo. With its expertly crafted sushi and bustling atmosphere, it's a must-visit spot for anyone looking for an authentic sushi experience in the city.
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Kura Sushi Asakusa ROX
@BmanLi
3/5 Optional to go |
Conveyor belt quality sushi, where you can gatcha your plates for a small prize
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Misojyu
@graceg
🌟A trendy specialty miso place in Asakusa. This place opened up after I’d already left Japan, but is highly recommended by my lovely friend Yuki, who is an accredited miso sommelier and grew up with parents that ran a miso factory, so it's gotta be good! They have veggie options too!
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Tsumugi
@graceg
🌟 A beautiful cafe attached to a major temple in the tsukiji area. I highly recommend going here for their breakfast! They have several options, but the set meal with 18 small dishes the most famous, and impressive. This place is really popular and they have a limited amount of sets they serve each day, so if you want to make sure you can try it, you can ask someone at your accomodation to help you make a booking for that specific breakfast set. Otherwise try and go on a weekday because it’s especially popular on weekends!
The walk from Ginza station is pretty reasonable.
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山形蕎麦茶寮 月の山
@graceg
🌟Nice modern feel, delicious soba - some of the best I’ve had! The shaved ice is also a perfect dessert to share afterwards.
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Kosoan
@graceg
🌟Traditional tea and Japanese sweets with a gorgeous garden view. It’s a bit out of the way, but the surrounding neighbourhood is also very cute to wander around, so if you’re in the area, you should definitely stop by
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Teuchi Udon Sumita
@graceg
🌟Very off the beaten path, but widely accepted to be the best udon in Tokyo. There's also a great sake selection.
Not very English friendly, and there can be a long wait, especially on the weekend, so try and go on a week day!
The udon with chicken tempura is what they’re most famous for and is delicious, but I preferred the udon with vegetable tempura.
They also sometimes have oden cooking here - mainly in the autumn and winter, so you can ask for a few things to try as a side.
If there’s a line up outside (which there almost always is) you need to write down your name (english is fine) on the sheet of paper, and write the number of people in your group next to the 人 character.
For about 3 years, I lived 5mins walk from this place so I went there pretty often, and about a quarter of the times I was there, a Japanese customer would come up to me and congratulate me on both finding and travelling out to the best udon in Tokyo - this never happened in other restaurants in this neighbourhood, so it's definitely highly revered locally!
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Hana Kagura
@graceg
🌟I highly recommend their bento lunch! You get a 12 little dishes to try - it's not on their dinner menu.
The atmosphere of this place is really gorgeous, and the surrounding neighbourhood is lovely to wander around - lots of cute little shops, without being super touristy
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Syusai HIYORI
@graceg
🌟One of the best izakayas I went to! Owned by a lovely couple who are dedicated to making delicious and extremely fresh, seasonal food. Small, cozy and not too pricey either
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d47 SHOKUDO
@graceg
Regional Japanese specialties with a view over Shibuya. On the 8th floor of the Hikarie building, you’ll find D47 Shokudo. The restaurant and shop is based on bringing specialty ingredients and traditional objects from the 47 prefectures of Japan to the middle of Shibuya. They regularly change their menu to showcase local dishes from the various prefectures of Japan. After lunch, you can look at the selection of objects from around Japan that have been curated for their store, and also flip through the design-centred guide books they publish.
The place is popular so there might be a line to get a seat if you go on the weekend
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Pariya
@graceg
A good spot for lunch or dinner in the Harajuku/Omotesando area. For 1800 yen, can choose a main, salad, side, rice, soup and a drink from a selection of daily dishes. When I lived in Tokyo it was super popular, and there was almost always a line up, so it might be better to try going here on a weekday!
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Lion
@graceg
This is a very unique cafe. You whisper your coffee order to the staff and then sit in silence while they play vinyls of classical music on their huge retro sound system. They have a no talking policy which everyone respects. The experience feels especially surreal given that the cafe is in the centre of the overwhelming neighbourhood of Shibuya.
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T’s Tantan - Gransta Tokyo (Keiyo Street)
@graceg
A great place to try Ramen if you're vegetarian! They have a few other branches too - this one is inside the JR line gates at Tokyo station, so don’t go out the gates if you arrive via one of the JR train lines, or you’ll have to pay to get back inside top get to the restaurant.
Since vegetarianism is not very popular in Japan, you'll almost always see a long line of foreigners here, but that doesn't mean it's not good!
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Soso
@graceg
I found this place when I was planning a 2020 trip.. so I’ve never actually been, but I’ve wanted to go for a while! Nice minimalist meals and modern takes on tradition Japanese sweets. The main thing that drew me to the resturant was that can grill your own dango at the table - if that’s still an option, I would definitely recommend - otherwise all the traditional sweets looked really delicious! There are some veggie friendly options for the mains, and all the sweets should be meat free!
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Toridashioden Samon
@graceg
A great place to try oden after wandering around Meguro - a delicious kind of cooking where various things boiled in dashi broth - you simply choose which things you'd like to try and pay per item
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Shirubee Shibuya
@graceg
A fancy-ish izakaya, the food is great, and sometimes you need a reliable spot to go when you’re in Shibuya
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Starbucks Coffee - Tokyu Plaza Omotesando Harajuku
@graceg
Starbucks seems like a lame suggestion, yes, but the special Japan-only seasonal drinks that the locals go crazy for does make it a true Japanese cultural experience. This location is my favourite, especially sitting in the outdoor garden just above harajuku madness
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Sosakumenkobo NAKIRYU
@graceg
Michelin star ramen! The tantan-men here is amazing - I tried the other flavours and they were good, but not as good!
This place was about 10mins from my old work, so I sometimes went here during exams since I had no classes to teach and could stand in line for a long time!
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Hagiso
@graceg
Cafè in a renovated traditional house - don’t travel especially for it but the vibes are nice if you need a coffee!
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Ain Soph. Journey Shinjuku
@graceg
Everything here is vegetarian, and delicious! There are a few branches of Ain Soph throughout the city - the one in Ikebukuro does more burger-y style food, while the Shinjuku one does nice Japanese versions of western food, which is quite far from actual western food! I think there’s also a Ginza branch too now. You can book on their website, I got turned away quite a few times when I attempted a dinner walk in, but you could always get lucky!
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Kyoto-cuisine Nana
@graceg
The lunches here come are very reasonably priced set-meals and delicious. The dinners are more upscale, izakaya style dining. The place has a nice view of Tokyo station and getting a window seat at night is especially nice. The building this is inside has lots of cute shops too, including the good design shop that I’ve also recommended here. I remember they are relatively English friendly as well
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Nezunoya
@graceg
Vegetarian, very cute and right by the Nezu shrine. The place seems very very homely - almost like you’re in someone’s living room. I remember the food seeming extremely healthy, so maybe it was also macrobiotic as well as vegetarian.
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Himitsudō
@graceg
Extremely popular shaved ice spot! If there’s no line up, or just a few people outside, you must go in! If there’s a massive line up outside, there can be a fun sense of community in waiting with everyone for shaved ice.. but sometimes it’s just ridiculous!
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Niigata Katsudon Tarekatsu Shibuya
@graceg
If you’re in a mood for a heavy fried katsudon, this place is amazing!
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Sushi Tsukijinihonkai Shinjukunishiguchiten
@graceg
Reasonably priced and very fresh! As in, the kind of place where you sometimes witness them killing the fish that they serve you minutes later. If you go here in the summer, look out for the seasonal special of eel (unagi) tempura.. I dream of eating that again!
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Nabezo Shibuya Koen Dori
@graceg
Nabezo is a chain hotpot place, and can be found in most major areas all over Japan. The self serve veggie selection there and the all you can eat meat (if you partake) are always fresh and delicious. You choose 2 soups (always make sure one option is sukiyaki soup - so good) and then you basically have a timed all you can eat hot pot, with self service veggies, and your choice of meat delivered to you - just ask the waiter for more when you’re out.
You can also order a vegetable only option too if you don’t want meat at all, and this includes various noodles, dumplings and tofu, as well as rice, curry and ice cream.
Also, if you order the sukiyaki soup, they’ll also bring you a small bowl with an uncracked raw egg - you’re supposed to crack the egg into the bowl, and use it as a dipping sauce after you’ve cooked your meat/veg in the sukiyaki soup. Japanese eggs are apparently safe to eat raw, and this does turn out to be a very tasty, but don’t feel obliged!
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Bars
Vowz Bar
@graceg
🌟 Tiny bar run by a group of Buddhist monks. I went here one NYE and they brought out a small bell and handed out copies of the heart sutra for everyone to drunkenly chant at midnight.
The cocktails were good too!
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DJ Bar EdgeEnd
@graceg
This is a great tiny bar. I especially recommend going to the CCR DJ nights if there's one on while you're there (there's a the schedule linked below). The vibes are great ime! The bar can be intimidating to go in since it's not very well sign posted, but don't worry, just go in and get a drink!
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Yanaka Beer Hall
@graceg
🌟Very cute spot, chill vibes for a drink after soaking up the Ueno/Yanaka/Nezu areas
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Hoppy Street
@graceg
🌟A street filled with post-war retro bars - a lot of them have an outdoor area where you can enjoy a beer and some snacks while people watching. A great option for the evening! You can generally order enough food to count as dinner. There should be a few veggie options on most menus, especially if they have yakitori: just ask for them to point out which of the skewers are veggie only
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Onsen
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Solaniwa Onsen Osaka Bay Tower
@emmathatch
Lots of things to do at this Onsen Hot Spring Bath Theme Park
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