One of the top specialties in the Aizu region is Awamanjū (あわまんじゅう), a slightly chewy bun filled with red bean paste. While manjū is a common traditional sweet that can be found across Japan, Awamanjū is only sold in Aizu, where it originates. Speaking of Awamanjū, Koike Confectionary Store (小池菓子舗) is the most famous shop […]
Koike Confectionary Store: The Most Famous Awamanjū Shop Read More »
In Aizu-Wakamatsu City, if you want to walk on a street lined with buildings from over a century ago, head to Nanukamachi-dōri Street (七日町通り). The 800-meter-long street stretching west from Nanukamachi Station (七日町駅) was a busy street in Aizu from the Edo period to the early 20th century. Historical warehouses and Western-style buildings are carefully
The Best Guide to the Must-Visit Spots on Nanukamachi-dōri Read More »
Aizu-Wakamatsu is Aizu region‘s biggest city. Besides the area where Aizu-Wakamatsu Castle is located, Nanukamachi nearby is also worth checking out. Once a lively area until the late 19th century, the town preserves the historical vibe. In addition to shopping for local specialties and taking photos, it has a couple of cafes and restaurants perfect
The Recommended Cafes and Restaurants in Nanukamachi Read More »
If you are a vegan, you might have heard of T’s Tantan, a vegan restaurant loved by most vegans in Tokyo. The famous vegan restaurant chain’s origin is T’s Restaurant (太陽と大地の食卓 T’s レストラン) in Jiyūgaoka (自由が丘). The owner was able to open T’s Tantan because T’s Restaurant was successful. So, if you ever plan to
T’s Restaurant, the Origin of the Famous T’s Tantan Read More »
While not as famous as Kappa Bridge or Taishō Pond, Tashiro Marsh (田代湿原) and Tashiro Pond (田代池) located between the two scenic spots are picturesque throughout the year. Especially in the morning of the colder months, you will find these two spots extra stunning because the plants are covered by a thin layer of frost!
The Best Guide to Tashiro Marsh and Tashiro Pond in Kamikōhi Read More »
On a hot summer day, the best spot to visit on Nakamachi Street is Nakamachi Hyouka Ten (中町氷菓店). You will find phenomenal shaved ice made from natural ice made in Yamanashi Prefecture. We were a little bit hesitant to make an order because 1,500 yen isn’t exactly cheap. However, after taking the first bite, we
Nakamachi Hyouka Ten and Its Amazing Shaved Ice Read More »
The beckoning cat temple, Gōtokuji, is so famous among international tourists that the spot is already probably on your itinerary for Tokyo! If you are not in a hurry, we recommend stopping by one of the cafes or shops near Gōtokuji. Quite a few of them have cutely designed maneki-neko products too! The sweets created
The Recommended Spots Near the Lucky Cat Temple, Gōtokuji Read More »
Even if you haven’t been to Japan before, your image of Shinjuku is most likely an area in Tokyo that is filled with skyscrapers and crowds. While the stereotype is true, Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden (新宿御苑) is where you can escape the crowds and adore Japanese and Western-style beautiful gardens. Although it is one of
Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden: An Oasis of Peace and Quiet Read More »
Another representative plum blossom spot in Shiga Prefecture is on the grounds of a traditional confectionery maker, Kanou Shojuan Sunai no Sato (叶 匠壽庵 寿長生の郷). As many as 700 plums produce fruits for the company to make Japanese sweets. The head office in Ōtsu was renovated from an abandoned village in 1985. The company takes
Kanou Shojuan: Hidden Gem for Plum Blossoms in Shiga Read More »
Regardless the overtourism problem, Kyoto is undoubtably Japan’s most popular tourist destination. The ancient capital of Japan has so much to offer that many people are enchanted by its charms. If you plan to visit Kyoto in early spring, there are several spots for you to add to your itinerary to enjoy the seasonal flower,
The Best Guide to Kyoto Prefecture’s Plum Blossom Spots Read More »
