Ginza Mitsukoshi
Ginza is famous for its highly ranked shopping area. Ginza Mitsukoshi is centrally located and also a representative department with a long history in Japan.
On my first trip to Ginza, I was immediately drawn in by the exterior of Ginza Mitsukoshi. It looks grand and stylish, and even just taking photos at the entrance gives you that upscale Tokyo shopping district vibe.
Takenoko no Sato
Takenoko no Sato is one of the signature products of Meiji Co., Ltd. (hereafter, Meiji). Following the huge success of its sister product Kinoko no Yama, it was developed as the second product in the series with a completely different concept. Since its launch in 1979, it has remained a long-selling favorite with a history of more than 45 years.
When you see bamboo shoot-shaped cookies at a convenience store in Japan, it’s really hard not to buy them. The classic combo of cookies and chocolate has a timeless appeal, and it’s easy to see why they’ve been a favorite for so long.
Inokashira Park
Inokashira Park, stretching across Musashino City and Mitaka City in Tokyo, opened in 1917 as the first imperial gift park in Japan, and celebrated its 100th anniversary in 2017.
After strolling through the Kichijoji shopping street, heading into the park made for a perfect day.
Tove Jansson Akebono Children's Forest Park
Scattered throughout the park are places where the spirit of Tove Jansson lives on. A fairy-tale writer from Northern Europe, she created the world-famous Moomin character. This park is full of cute buildings and natural spaces for visitors to enjoy.
It's so beautiful, it's hard to believe this park is free. You can even go inside the cute little houses and really immerse yourself in the charming world of the Moomins.
Yakiniku Gyugujo
Owned by the comedian Hiroyuki Miyasako, his friend and YouTuber Hikaru promotes this shop, making it a trending Yakiniku restaurant far before opening. Ever since opening in March 2022 at the Shibuya red light district, its high quality menu and trendiness with celebrities endorsing the restaurant made it popular as “Japan’s most trending restaurant”.
The meat quality is really good, with beautiful marbling that just melts in your mouth. Prices are a bit high, but for a famous yakiniku spot in Tokyo, it's actually pretty reasonable.
Ramen Square (Tachikawa City)
Located just outside the south exit of JR Tachikawa Station, "Ramen Square" offers a stylish dining experience that feels like dropping in to a ramen joint in Manhattan.
Having to buy tickets from a vending machine is a bit inconvenient. It would be friendlier if you could just order directly.
Tenmaya Okayama Main Store
Founded in 1829 (Bunsei 12) as a small sundry goods shop, Tenmaya later transitioned into a department store in 1925 (Taisho 14), celebrating its 100th anniversary as a department store originating in Okayama Prefecture. The main store, located in Okayama City, includes a bus terminal and is conveniently located near streetcar stops. Its location is also within walking distance of Okayama Station, Korakuen Garden, and Okayama Castle, making it popular with both locals and tourists.
The store isn't too big, so it's just the right size for browsing. You won't end up walking until your feet hurt like in those huge Osaka department stores.
Q&P KOWA i PLUS
Q&P KOWA i PLUS, brought to you by Kowa Company, Ltd., boasts a legacy of over 130 years. Seven active ingredients work to deeply soothe tired eyes. Each tablet contains just 1.7 kcal and is caffeine-free, making it a worry-free choice for many. While it is not suitable for use during pregnancy, it is safe for breastfeeding mothers.
My eyes often get really tired after using my phone for a long time. Since Shohei Ohtani is the spokesperson, I figured it must be good. After trying it, I noticed my dry eyes improved a lot.
Kurayami Matsuri (Darkness Festival)
This is an annual festival of Okunitama-jinja Shrine in Fuchu City, Tokyo. The festival has a history of more than 1,000 years, originating from the "Kokufu-sai / Konomachi " of Musashi Province, and is designated as an Intangible Folk Cultural Asset by the Tokyo Metropolitan Government.
Around 700,000 people join the mikoshi parade during the festival, making it super lively. It's a rare and memorable experience!
Yokohama Marine Tower
Built in 1961 to commemorate the 100th anniversary of Yokohama's port opening, the Yokohama Marine Tower stands as a beloved symbol of the city. Standing at 106 meters and inspired by a lighthouse, you can spot this landmark from a number of points across the Bay Area. With significant renovations completed in 2022, the spot now glimmers as a fully enhanced, prime destination.
The night view from the Marine Tower is a must-see. As evening falls, the whole tower and the surrounding area light up with gorgeous illuminations, creating a romantic and dreamy atmosphere.