Takimi Koji
Cobblestone pathways, tiled roofs, and lattice doors evoke the sensation of a time slip back into Japan's Showa era at this dining district located on the basement floor of the Umeda Sky Building.
This place has the vibe of an old Japanese street! The restaurant area is really unique, and you can try all kinds of Osaka specialties here.
Engakuji Temple
Located just a short walk from Kita-Kamakura Station, Engakuji is the head temple of the Rinzai Zen Engakuji school. Founded in 1282 by the eighth shogunal regent of the Kamakura shogunate, Tokimune Hojo, with the dual purpose of spreading Zen Buddhism and commemorating those who perished in the Mongol invasions. Since its inception, the temple has been generously protected by the Hojo clan throughout the Kamakura period, making it a historically significant temple.
Engakuji is a great spot for Zen meditation—it's the second of the Five Great Zen Temples in Kamakura, so it's pretty important. There's even a national treasure bell that's over 500 years old. Perfect for a little Kamakura getaway!
Tokyo Station Gallery
Desiring to transform Tokyo Station, which is the starting and ending point for Japan's railways, from just a transit point to a hub of culture, the Tokyo Station Gallery was born within the Marunouchi station building in 1988. Following renovations of the station in 2006, the gallery was temporarily closed.
This is one of the impressive buildings of Tokyo Station, which is a part of Japan's modern history. Really awesome.
Toraya Akasaka Branch
Founded in Kyoto during the late Muromachi period, Toraya expanded to Tokyo in 1869, following the capital's move from Kyoto to Tokyo. Although the Kyoto shop continued its operations, Toraya established its presence in Akasaka, Tokyo from 1879. In 1964, they relocated to their current location, and in 2018, the entire store underwent a renovation and celebrated its grand reopening.
Not only do they sell sweets here, but there's also a Toraya tea room and exhibition space. It's the perfect spot for a relaxing afternoon visit.
Kanakana
The "Naramachi" area is lined with machiya-style houses (residences of merchants and craftsmen) back to the Edo and Meiji periods. In recent years, it has become crowded with sophisticated cafes and stores. Kanakana is one of the pioneers in this area. The renovated machiya-style houses (residences of merchants and craftsmen), which are over 100 years old, are nostalgic cafes that bring back fond memories. In addition to table seating, there is also tatami seating where you can take off your shoes and enjoy your meal on a Chabudai table (Low tea table).
The signature Kanakana set meal and Japanese-style set menus change with the seasons and ingredients, so it's always something different every time I visit.
Kamonka Ueno Bamboo Garden Branch
This restaurant offers "continental cuisine" that transcends time and borders, with a concept of a "theatre to fully taste the Chinese mainland". You can enjoy a luxurious time in a modern Chinese space that arranges Chinese traditional architectural styles and designs.
Their Chongqing Mapo Tofu, with its rich and spicy flavor, is absolutely addictive! The Peking duck is also something you just can't stop eating.
THE ROOF SHIBUYA SKY
This rooftop bar allows you to spend a special time with a breathtaking view of high-rise buildings that represent Tokyo, such as Tokyo Tower and Tokyo Skytree ®. Enjoy the wonderful view of Tokyo that changes from dusk to night view every moment, along with comfortable music and drinks.
In this spacious spot, you can relax on the sofa seats, enjoy the amazing view, and sip on drinks and snacks. It's a great place to spend a special moment.
Senri Shabuchin
In 1972, this solo pot shabu-shabu specialty store, the second branch, was established in Senri Chuo, located in Toyonaka City's Senri New Town. At the time of its parent store's inception, shabu-shabu was a high-end cuisine where multiple people would gather around a single pot. The concept of enjoying it in an individual pot was revolutionary and quickly became popular. The casual dining experience at the counter changed the once-intimidating perception of shabu-shabu.
Shabu-shabu is usually a fancy meal where everyone shares one pot...oh.
Entrée Marché Shin-Osaka Central Entrance Store
Located right outside the JR Shin-Osaka Station Shinkansen Central Exit. Even if you're about to catch a Shinkansen or during a layover, it's conveniently situated for a quick visit. Among the several souvenir shops in the station, this one boasts the largest floor space.
I always stop by before catching my train~ Later I realized Entrée Marché has such a huge selection of souvenirs. Some of them you can’t even find at the airport duty-free shops! Tons of Kansai-only items—so easy to shop here! 🙏
MARINE ＆ WALK YOKOHAMA
Adjacent to the Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse, "MARINE ＆ WALK YOKOHAMA" is an open mall born from the idea of creating streets in a seaside warehouse district. It's garnering attention as a new symbol of Yokohama's Minato Mirai and Shinko area.
With its red brick warehouse look, there are lots of unique restaurants and some cool clothing shops. It’s a great spot for a relaxing stroll!