Eating vegetarian food in Japan is definitely possible – it just takes a bit of research to know where to go and what to eat. There are a lot of great guides out there with information on the Japanese and English names for specific foods safe for a vegetarian diet. With this post, I want […]
Tokyo
Guide to Shinjuku, Tokyo: Neon Lights, Karaoke, Quirky Shopping, & Unique Dining
There is a reason Shinjuku is such a well-traveled destination in Tokyo. I must confess that I avoided it on my first two trips to Japan, thinking it was too touristy or too expensive or too unsafe (the red light district is there, after all). I was wrong. Fortunately, I rectified this on my third […]
Visiting the Ghibli Museum in Tokyo
If you’ve ever wanted to learn about the genius of Studio Ghibli, the Japanese animation studio known for outstanding, heartfelt works like Spirited Away and My Neighbor Totoro, the Ghibli Museum is the perfect place to visit. Clara JulietteClara hopes to share her love of exploring cultures and inspire others through the power of storytelling. In […]
Down the Rabbit Hole and Into the Alice in a Labyrinth Restaurant in Ginza
Japan loves Alice in Wonderland. So much so that there are a bunch of Alice in Wonderland-themed restaurants throughout the country. Six restaurants in particular are owned by Diamond Dining, a company that manages a slew of themed restaurants across Japan: Alice in a Labyrinth in Ginza Alice in a Picture Book in Shinjuku Alice […]
Guide to Shibuya, Tokyo: Japanese Fashion, Historical Sites, Delicious Food, and Unique Shops
I love all of Tokyo. But there is something so special about Shibuya, and I fall in love with it all over again each time I visit Japan. It is the birthplace of so many cool fashion trends. The sights and sounds just enthrall you at every corner. At night, it is especially lovely with […]
Guide to Ikebukuro, Tokyo: Anime, Video Games, Shopping, and Cats
For me, walking into Ikebukuro, Tokyo for the first time was a bit like walking into Willy Wonka’s chocolate factory. I didn’t know what to expect, but I had a wonderfully surreal experience, and I couldn’t wait to go back. On various visits, I have: Seen a man in blue plaid pants walking two dogs dressed […]
5 Things to do in Ginza, Tokyo’s Most Upscale District
Ginza is known as the upscale, opulent district of Tokyo, but there is more to it than pricey stores. Ginza is a feast for the eyes, brimming with incredible, eye-catching buildings and storefronts designed by illustrious architects. Its architectural prowess is especially evident at night when everything is lit up against the dark sky. So […]
Beautiful Gardens in Tokyo, Japan
Tokyo may be a sprawling metropolis, but that doesn’t mean it’s lacking in green space. Some of the most beautiful and tranquil gardens can be found in this bustling city. If you’re craving some natural scenery, add these four Tokyo gardens to your Japan itinerary. Clara JulietteClara hopes to share her love of exploring cultures […]
My Favorite Parks in Japan
Japan has a deep appreciation of nature as evidenced by the popularity of forest bathing, or shinrinyoku: being present while immersed in the natural environment. Luckily, there is no shortage of beautiful parks to explore there. Here is a list of five well-planned public parks in Japan that are all free to visit but may […]