Tempura Yamanoue Ginza
At Tempura Yamanoue Ginza, you can savor the proud tempura tradition of the long-established "Yamanoue Hotel," located in Ochanomizu, with a history of 70 years.
Tempura really tastes best when it's made with fresh ingredients. The rich aroma of sesame oil makes it even more delicious—it's the perfect combo!
Shiseido Parlor Ginza Main Store Salon de Cafe
The Shiseido Building in Tokyo Ginza, with its symbolic brick-colored facade, stands along Ginza Chuo Street. The 11-story building houses a variety of facilities, including shops, cafes, restaurants, bars, salons, and halls, making it usable in various scenarios. Located on the third floor is the "Shiseido Parlor Ginza Main Store Salon de Cafe."
When we went to the cafe, it was a holiday and the line was super long, so we decided not to wait. Instead, we bought their signature Hanatsubaki cookies from another floor to take home. These cookies have been around for 80 years—they have a buttery, wheat flavor and come in beautiful packaging. They're great as gifts.
Akigawa Valley
The Akigawa Valley, spanning approximately 20 km from Akiruno City to Hinohara Village in Tokyo, is a vast expanse of nature that seems unbelievable just an hour away from Tokyo's bustling center. Loved by locals as a handy spot for experiencing nature, the valley offers breathtaking views of rural landscapes in every season, from fresh greenery to autumn leaves. It's also a popular spot for outdoor activities like barbecuing and camping.
If you want to experience nature outside of central Tokyo, this is a great day trip. There's so much greenery and the scenery changes with the seasons. It's only about an hour from downtown Tokyo, so it's super convenient!
Matsumuraya Ryokan
Nestled in Koedo Kawagoe, where the vestiges of its days as a castle town still remain, Matsumuraya Ryokan stands nearly at the town's center. With a history spanning 150 years, this venerable ryokan has gained popularity as a lodging option thanks to its quaint atmosphere that blends seamlessly with the charming townscape and warm hospitality.
The location is fantastic—close to restaurants and shopping areas. It's clean and comfortable. Since it's a Japanese-style inn, they use futons, which are thick and really comfy to sleep on.
La Vista Tokyo Bay
In July 2022, an urban resort hotel grandly opened in the ever-evolving Toyosu area, directly connected to the new transit Yurikamome Shijo-mae station. True to its name, "La Vista", which means "view" in Spanish, it features a commanding view overlooking Tokyo Bay, Tokyo Tower, Tokyo Skytree, Rainbow Bridge, and more.
The bath was really comfortable and clean, and the facilities were all there. The night view was amazing. Breakfast was super rich, and the staff were all very friendly. It's easy to get to Shimbashi and the airport, so I highly recommend it!
Nakajima Park
Located at the heart of Sapporo, Nakajima Park offers a verdant space. many tourists flock to this popular park to see ever-changing scenery through four seasons.
The natural scenery at Nakajima Park is breathtaking. There are vast green spaces, lakes, and small hills. In spring, the cherry blossoms are in full bloom—it's like a dream and a perfect way to enjoy nature.
UNWIND HOTEL & BAR SAPPORO
UNWIND HOTEL & BAR SAPPORO is an accommodation facility with a space based on the design theme of a lodge, centering on bricks and wood. Visitors can enjoy the atmosphere of a lodge or cottage, where they can enjoy an extraordinary feeling of being away from the hustle and bustle of the city, as freely as if they were at home.
Great location, good service, and the rooftop terrace has a fantastic vibe.
KITKAT matcha
There is a wide variety of matcha-flavored snacks. If you want to buy the whole box and distribute it to friends and family, "KITKAT Adult's Sweet Matcha" is the most suitable gift.
Matcha chocolate is a great treat for both chocolate lovers and matcha fans. It really captures that Japanese flavor. Definitely one of the best snack souvenirs you can bring back.
Usuki Castle Ruins
Known as the stronghold constructed by Otomo Sorin, a Christian feudal lord, on Nunojima Island in Usuki Bay. During its construction, it boasted a naturally fortified position surrounded by the sea on all sides, but now it can be accessed as it has been connected to the mainland by land reclamation. Throughout the Edo period, it served as the residence of the Inaba clan, who held the position of lord for 15 generations, prospering greatly. However, the castle was decided to be abandoned in the Meiji period. Today, it has been developed into Usuki Park, serving as a place of relaxation for the locals.
Usuki Castle was built by the warlord Otomo Sorin about 460 years ago. There are also around 1,000 cherry trees near the old castle, so during the spring cherry blossom festival, you can enjoy beautiful sakura, join in the local celebrations, and try some great food while soaking up the culture.
Yabakei
Yabakei in Nakatsu City, Oita Prefecture, is considered one of the "Three Great Odd Views" of Japan, alongside Myogi Mountain in Gunma Prefecture and Kankakei in Shodoshima. Spanning the northeast part of North Kyushu, across Oita, Fukuoka, and Kumamoto Prefectures, it's part of the "Yaba-Hita-Hikosan Quasi-National Park". Additionally, Yabakei is designated as one of the "New Three Views of Japan".
Yabakei has such stunning scenery. You can stroll along the stream, enjoy the clear water and gorgeous natural views, and really feel the peace and wonder of nature.