Tokyo Food Guide - The Best Food & The Best Restaurants in Tokyo

When Tokyo is mentioned in a conversation, it's more often than not that the topic is about food. While many rave about Ichiran, Afuri, Sushi Dai, Shake Shack, Red Rock, Luke's Lobster and some of the must-eats that Singaporeans always go for, I'm here with a list of recommendations that are not usually talked about. You most definitely should not miss them when you visit Tokyo!

Best Mid-Range Sushi Omakase Restaurants in Tokyo

As you probably already know, I've been to Tokyo numerous times, and I LOVE LOVE LOVE sushi. On my most recent visit, I made it a point to visit Tsukiji as much as I can to try out the sushi restaurants there. On top of multiple trips to the famous fish market, I also popped by a couple of mid-range sushi restaurants that are known for their affordable and absolutely delicious sushi omakase. I was spending 4,300yen to 5,000yen on sushi sets in Tsukiji and none of these supposedly top-rated restaurants even came close to the 3 restaurants featured in this article. If you're a sushi lover too, you can't miss these three restaurants. Your sushi cravings will definitely be satiated and you'll feel like every penny has been completely and utterly well spent.

12 Delicious Eats in Kyoto (Japan) - The Best Food that You Shouldn't Miss!

I travelled to Japan recently and spent 5 out of 42 days in Kyoto! Besides being home to beautiful shrines, and heritage buildings, Kyoto is also known for exceptional food, especially kaiseki. I stuffed myself with more food than I should have. So here's a compilation of where to eat and what to eat in Kyoto! If you're looking for the best food in Kyoto, be sure to bookmark this article for future reference!

20 Places in Japan that Animal Lovers Must Visit

I love animals so whenever I travel, I make it a point to visit a zoo or at least an attraction that features animals. Japan was perfect for me. Besides being known for owl cafes and cat islands, Japan is also home to numerous famous zoos and lesser known animal-centric attractions. Wanna feed these squirrels like I did? Read on to find out where you can do so!

Miyagi Zao Fox Village at Shiroishi - Happy Foxes, Happy Visitors

Ever since I saw pictures of the Fox Village back in 2014, visiting it has been on my bucket list. So when I booked my trip to Japan back in March, I knew that I had to make it here! Our original plan was to travel here from Tokyo but we made a last minute decision to go from Kyoto instead. We left Kyoto at 8am in the morning, arrived at Tokyo around noon to deposit our luggage in the lockers, and made our way to Shiroishi-Zao from there.

Menbaka - Kyoto's Famous Fire Ramen Opens First Overseas Outlet at Cineleisure on 24 Nov!

   

Have you tried the world's first fire ramen? I did, a few years ago, at Menbakaichidai めん馬鹿一代, in Kyoto, and it was definitely one of the most unique, fun, and engaging dining experiences I've ever had!

Now, Menbaka is opening their first overseas outlet in Singapore on 24 November, at Cineleisure!

Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route - Amazing Snow Wall in Japan

The Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route, which is accessible from different prefectures, is known as the “Roof of Japan”. The entire route is 90km long, and it's not open throughout the year. There are many beautiful and breathtaking sights along the way. You can even stay at one of the hotels, if you're interested. In April, the roads up Mount Tateyama(which experiences some of the heaviest snowfalls in the world) are cleared and a snow canyon is, hence, formed. The majestic snow wall, which draws thousands of visitors who are willing to brave the long journey, is only open from mid April to mid June. Our journey from Takayama to the snow canyon took about 5 hours, and involved train rides, cable car rides and bus rides. The route closes pretty early so be sure to get here as early as possible so that you can spend ample time here.

Narikura - Best Tonkatsu in Tokyo (Be Prepared to Queue!)

Tokyo is home to tons of famous restaurants and is especially known for awesome sushi, addictive ramen, and fresh sashimi. But don't you come to Tokyo and not dine at Bib Gourmand awardee Narikura! I've always been a huge fan of tonkatsu, and I frequent Tonkatsu by Ma Maison in Singapore quite a fair bit. But honestly, Tonkatsu by Ma Maison has nothing on Narikura.

Shinjuku Kappo Nakajima - Traditional Japanese Dinner at the "Cheapest" Michelin-Starred Restaurant in Tokyo

Have been dying to dine here ever since I heard that it's the cheapest One-Michelin-Starred establishment in Tokyo. Everyone raves about their sardine lunch sets which are insanely affordable. Because I didn't do my research properly, I made a booking here for dinner, thinking that the sardine sets will be available too. Unfortunately, the sardine sets are only available during lunch and the queues are crazy everyday. So, I unknowingly booked myself a traditional Japanese dinner at this fine-dining restaurant.

Unkai Terrace - Get Above a Beautiful Sea of Clouds in Hokkaido

Cloud Walk : risonare.com 

The Unkai Terrace in Hokkaido promises a mind-blowing and breathtaking sight. Go on a gondola ride up the mountain, be prepared to arrive above a sea of moving clouds, and be treated to one of the most beautiful sights. The journey here is definitely not an easy one, but good things are worth working for, right? The terrace is only open from mid May to mid October, and I'll recommend that you go in August or September for the best possible view. The type of unkai that you'll see depends on a variety of factors such as humidity and temperature.

Hitachi Seaside Park - The Most Beautiful Flower Park in Japan

Tucked away in Hitachinaka, Ibaraki, is the famous and iconic Hitachi Seaside Park that draws thousands of tourists and locals throughout the year. The park is located on the Pacific Ocean side of the Japanese coast and occupies a total area of 350 hectares. Japan experiences four seasons a year, and the Hitachi Seaside Park reflects the transition and change of season through the blooms that span the vast land. The blue flowers that you see here are called Nemophila. They appear in April and stay for about a month. The park is blanketed in a variety of colours(depending on which flower is in bloom at that moment) as the seasons come and go. If you're wondering what other flowers you can spot here, Hitachi Seaside park sees the full glory of roses, tulips, kochia, poppies, sunflowers, and more! So, you gotta be sure which flowers you wanna catch before you plan your trip!

The Best 2-Day Itinerary that You'll Need for Ibaraki(Japan)

Ibaraki might just be the most underrated prefecture in Japan. It's pretty near Tokyo (about 2 hours away) and it's easy to get here. You can choose to take a train or bus to Ibaraki. Most people visit Ibaraki for two reasons — Kairakuen (especially during plum season) and the Hitachi Seaside Park. However, there's a dog amusement park, castle ruins, Tsukuba Space Centre, Fukuroda waterfall, museums, shrines, Mount Tsukuba, and many more attractions. Ibaraki's close proximity to Tokyo allows it to be the destination of a quick day trip from Tokyo. However, if you have time, we will recommend that you spend at least 2 fulls days here. We were in Ibaraki for 2 days, and we used Mito, the capital city, as a base to explore.

Wagyumafia The Cutlet Sandwich - The First and Best Wagyu Katsu Sando in Tokyo

Wagyumafia set out to raise awareness and educate the general public, and especially those with a discerning palate, about genuine wagyu beef. Over the years, we've seen the rise of "Kobe-style" beef in America, Australian wagyu beef and more, but they're nothing like true blue wagyu from Japan. Hence, Wagyumafia's mission is definitely commendable. Situated in Nakameguro, 2-year-old Wagyumafia The Cutlet Sandwich is a small little space that has a very lean menu. They offer katsu sando (cutlet sandwiches), a couple of sides, and a selection of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages.

Cafe If - Charming & Cozy Cafe in Niseko That You Must Visit

My best friend and I spent five days exploring Hokkaido. We were passing through Niseko and decided to visit Cafe If which sits in a quiet neighbourhood. It was one of the most memorable cafe visits of our one-month stay in Japan.

The Kiroro, Hokkaido(A Tribute Portfolio Hotel) - The Epitome of Luxury

Situated in the heart of Kiroro Resort, known for its superb powder skiiing, The Kiroro, Hokkaido is part of Tribute Portfolio, a collection of independent hotels under Marriott International. The Kiroro is located in the village of Akaigawa, Hokkaido, and plays host to a crazy number of guests every year, especially in winter. In December 2016, The Kiroro, Hokkaido unveiled a fresh new look to provide winter enthusiasts a high-end boutique experience to retreat back to after an exciting day out on the snowy slopes.

The Strings - Fantastic Hotel in the Heart of Nagoya

The Strings Hotel is a city lifestyle hotel in Nagoya, the fourth most populated city in Japan. Amenities based on the concepts of “healthy,” “beautiful,” and “refreshing” are offered in all of the guest rooms. From nano water (water purified with nanotechnology), to rain shower equipped baths, to down feather comforters and pillows which have undergone negative ion processing, The Strings promises more than just an impressive stay. The Strings Hotel is located near Sasashima-raibu Station which is a one-minute train ride from the main Nagoya Station. The location is therefore, impeccable. The hotel is also within walking distance of a cinema complex and many eateries.

Grand Park Otaru (Hokkaido) - The Only International Luxury Hotel in Otaru

Grand Park Otaru, which is managed by international hotel chain, Park Hotel Group, is the only international luxury hotel in Otaru. The gorgeous 18-storey hotel overlooks Ishikari Bay and the Otaru Marina. Located conveniently next to the JR Otaru Chikko station and Wing Bay Otaru (one of Hokkaido’s largest shopping malls), the hotel boasts 296 rooms and suites. You can expect stunning views and nothing short of a comfortable stay here.

The Gate Hotel Asakusa Kaminarimon - Great Location, Modern Rooms!

Asakusa might not be the most central of location in Tokyo but most tourists still make it a point to visit because of the Senso-ji and Tokyo Skytree. Dressed in eye-catchingly bright hues, Senso-ji is the oldest Buddhist temple in Tokyo. It draws throngs of people day in day out. It's beautiful in the day, and as stunning at night. Sitting pretty right opposite the famous temple is The Gate Hotel, which plays host to visitors from all over the world. Located just about 250m from Asakusa Station, The Gate Hotel is near many eateries and bars. You can have supper at the popular Ichiran before heading to A.S.A.B (a quaint and cozy bar) for drinks. If you're up for a louder and more vibrant kind of bar, pop by Hub Jazz Bar for live performances and mingle with the crowd! If you prefer to drink in the hotel, The Gate has got you covered with their private bar that is exclusive to hotel guests. Knock back a couple of cocktails as you revel in a splendid view of the iconic Skytree.

Hilton Odawara Resort & Spa - Possibly the Best Resort in Honshu (Japan)

Located in Odawara, western Kanagawa prefecture, is Hilton Odawara Resort & Spa which spans a jaw-dropping 230,000sqm. The 5-star hotel sits between the Hakone Mountains and Sagami Bay, and is just 30 minutes by bullet train from the bustling city of Tokyo. This makes it an extremely popular holiday destination for Tokyoites. The wheelchair-friendly resort boasts modern amenities, hot spring pools, a wealth of recreational amenities, 173 refreshed rooms and diverse restaurants. We rented a car from Odawara Station and drove to Hilton Odawara. There is free parking in the resort so you don't have to worry about expensive parking fees!

Tsukuba Wan Wan Land(Ibaraki) - Hidden Doggy Heaven in Japan

Ibaraki, which is considerably near Tokyo, is known to be the home of many educational institutions, especially colleges. While you're walking along the streets in the capital city, Mito, you'll see tons of school kids dressed in smart uniforms. Mito is a good base for you to explore some parts of the prefecture. A key attraction will be the Hitachi Seaside Park which is blanketed in different flowers throughout the year.

Tsukuba Wan Wan Land, a literal doggy wonderland, is hardly visited by foreign tourists, but is very popular with the Japanese. It might be a little difficult to get here, but I promise you that it will be worth the time and effort. Where else can you play with and spend quality time with so many dogs?