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 »
If you are a coffee lover, Chouette Torréfacteur Laboratoire (梟焙煎研究所) is the place to go close to Gōtokuji. You will find the locally rumored “ultimate espresso (究極のエスプレッソ)” there. Apparently, the owner, Takayama-san (髙山さん), previously worked at a Michelin three-star restaurant in France, hence the French café name and the delicious food and coffee served! Not
Chouette Torréfacteur Laboratoire: A Hidden Gem in Setagaya Read More »
You might have come across the beckoning cat, maneki-neko (招き猫). The cat figurine is often believed to bring good luck to the owner. Leaving the figurine’s ability to bring good fortune aside, the maneki-neko is a cute decor and might cheer you up when feeling down. If you are smitten by maneki-neko, the must-visit spot
Gōtokuji: Tokyo’s Infamous Maneki-neko Lucky Cat Temple 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 »
If you enjoy browsing apparel and accessories, visit Leberment (リベルマン) on Nakamichi-dōri Street in Kichijōji. The shop is opposite Kichijōji Nishi Park (吉祥寺西公園) and has a small cafe, perfect for taking a brief break. In addition to the owner’s carefully picked items, works from lesser-known artists can also be found at Leberment.
Leberment: A Must-Visit Shop in Kichijōji for Stylish Items Read More »
If you come to Kichijōji for local food and snacks, visit the Daiyagai (吉祥寺ダイヤ街) parallel to Kichijoji Station beyond Harmonica Yokochō. The arcade is divided into three zones: the East Zone (イースト・ゾーン), the West Zone (ウエスト・ゾーン), and the Dome Zone (ドーム・ゾーン). When you walk on the covered shopping street, you will notice that more than 50
Kichijōji Daiyagai: The Paradise for Foodies Read More »
Are you excited about your trip to Japan but realize that your flight either arrives too late or departs too early for you to utilize public transportation to travel between Haneda Airport and Tokyo? This is especially bad news for those who are traveling on a budget. While there are hotels near Tokyo Haneda Airport,
The Best Guide to How to Spend a Night at Haneda Airport Read More »
As soon as you walk out of Kichijoji Station from the north exit, the yellow sign of Harmonica Yokochō Kichijōji (ハモニカ横丁吉祥寺) will be on your face. This is the best part of Kichijōji for everyday dining, grabbing a couple of side dishes, eating while walking, and visiting an izakaya at night. Most of the shops
Harmonica Yokochō: An Izakaya & Street Food Paradise Read More »
If you are looking for a gluten-free restaurant with vegan options, visit Where Is a Dog (ウェア イズ ア ドッグ?) in Kichijōji. The gluten-free cafe is located in a small lane that intersects the Nakamichi-dōri Shopping Street (中道通り商店街). It is also a spot for cat lovers. While it isn’t a cat cafe, nor does the
Where Is a Dog: Kichijōji’s Cat-Themed Gluten-Free Cafe Read More »
For those who love special-themed cafes, don’t miss out on Coffee Hall Kugutsusō (COFFEE HALL くぐつ草) in Kichijōji. The cave vibe there is just fascinating! The underground cafe in Kichijōji’s Daiyagai District has been around since 1979 and is one of the most popular hidden spots in the area!
Coffee Hall Kugutsusō: The Mysterious Cave-Themed Cafe Read More »
