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How to furnish your apartment in Tokyo

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How to furnish your apartment in Tokyo

Most of the rental apartments in Japan and in Tokyo are completely unfurnished when you first move in. In this post we will explain how to furnish your apartment in Tokyo

Offline stores

In Tokyo, there is plenty of furniture stores. Starting from chain shops such as Ikea and Nitori (Japanese Ikea) to furniture boutiques located in fancy areas, such as Meguro and Aoyama, to secondhand and antique shops. 

Pacific Furniture Service

Roche Bobois

Lloyd’s Antiques 

Online stores

Some of the offline stores also have their homepages, where you can shop for furniture without leaving your home. Most of the websites are in Japanese, but everything is pretty much straight forward and online shopping should not be an issue. 

Nitori

Ikea

Online services

By online services we mean not official online shops, but websites such as craigslist, or Facebook groups, or Mercari.

Craigslist Furniture

Mercari Furniture

Furniture rental services

In Tokyo, since many people come here only for a short term and do not invest money into buying furniture and try to rid of it when moving out, some services provide furniture for rent. For more information about this option, you might want to contact services such as Gaijinpot Housing Service.

Furnished apartments

Last but not least! You have the option of renting a furnished apartment with us! Tokyo Furnished provides weekly apartments, monthly apartments, and long-term furnished apartments. The apartments are located in the central areas, such as Roppongi, Shibuya, Shinjuku, etc. 

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Kadokawa Museum

Fun Day in Tokorozawa

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Fun day in Tokorozawa

Tokorozawa is a city in Saitama prefecture, about 30 km west of central Tokyo. Proximity to Tokyo and low rental costs make it a popular bedroom community. However, you really should not see Tokorozawa as a boring suburb town. In the past several years the town’s government was trying to develop it a lot. Now you can find here museums and popular art exhibitions like the one made by TeamLab, for example. 

Breakfast

Start your day at one of the Tokorozawa stylish cafes. For a cup of coffee and delicious sandwiches head to Mitaru Coffee or to Ichian. Both are located just a short walking distance from Tokorozawa station.

Tokorozawa Aviation Memorial Park

After a boost of caffeine and carbs, check out the city’s memorial park and aviation museum. This spot will be interesting for both adults and kids. 

Lunch

For lunch head to Tokorozawa’s famous ramen shop Kappa House. Their ramen and tsukemen are not only tasty but they will also look good on your Instagram. 

Afternoon

In the afternoon take a train and go to the Higashi-Tokorozawa area. If you are still hungry or want to buy some delicious bread for home, stop by BellTeco bakery or try a famous Japanese dessert, shaved ice, at Kakigori Sango. Their menu changes seasonally and everyone can find here a kakigori he or she will like. 

Tokorozawa Sakura Town

The rest of the day we recommend spending at Tokorozawa Sakura Town, which features Kadokawa Musashino Museum and Acorn Forest by TeamLab.  The museum was designed by a famous Kengo Kuma, the architect who designed a new Tokyo Olympic stadium. The building is interesting from the outside as well as from the inside and features 5 floors. Here you can find a library, exhibitions related to anime, and changing exhibitions from Japan and all around the world. The currently running exhibition Spirit of Japan by Danny Ruso is beautiful and highly recommended. If you want to save a few hundred yens, make sure to buy the tickets online. 

After exploring the museum and nearby facilities, head across the street to Acorn Forest. In the evening silvery acorns turn into a light show. Same here, you can save a few yens if you buy a ticket online. But also get a tip from us, the light show is well visible from the outside, so unless you want to touch the acorns, you don’t really have to pay and get inside the forest. Instead, you can buy yourself a hot beverage or a snack from a nearby cafe and enjoy the show at the cafe. 

As you can see, Tokorozawa had a major transformation in the past years, and it makes a wonderful day trip from central Tokyo. 

If you like to move to Tokorozawa, make sure to check out our Tokorozawa furnished apartments. 

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Roppongi

Spend a Day in Roppongi

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Spend a Day in Roppongi

Here is a mini-guide with ideas on how to spend a day in Roppongi.

Morning:

Bricolage bread & co.

There is no better way to kick off your morning than with Bricolage bread & co. This bakery is famous for serving its bread even at some of the Michelin restaurants in the area. You can try any of its freshly baked bread, pastries, and morning sets, which are served every day (except for Mondays) from 8 AM to 10 AM, and you won’t regret it.

Explore art:

After a good breakfast, you can begin with your cultural binge. There are three main art facilities in Roppongi, known as Roppongi’s Art Triangle. The Mori Art Museum displays big names in modern art and architecture, while The National Art Center, is one of Japan’s largest art venues and presents large-scale and immersive exhibits. The Suntory Museum of Art specializes in Japanese art and offers regular tea ceremony events. Another art highlight includes the design museum 21_21 Design Sight, designed by a famous designer Issey Miyaki and architect Tadao Ando. If you’re after something less touristy, Roppongi also boasts dozens of small art galleries along with a variety of public art.

Lunch

Falafel brothers

This is a good option for anyone who is looking for a cool chill place with delicious healthy vegan food. You can choose between falafel in pita bread or falafel bowl, or order one of their vegan sandwiches or pizzas. 

Coffee break

For a coffee break head to one of the many coffee shops in the area. For example, Blue Bottle Coffee Roppongi or Verve Coffee Roasters both offer great specialty coffee and are located in really beautiful spaces.

Shopping:

Roppongi is a paradise for anyone who loves and appreciates good shopping. Here you will find two main mega-shopping complexes. The first one is Roppongi Hills, which is mostly known for the Mori Art Museum but also boasts a cinema, an art gallery, a hotel, an observatory, and many luxury stores of both Japanese and international brands. The second one is Tokyo Midtown, which features several stores that offer Japanese craftsmanship as well as fashion boutiques and concept stores.

Dinner

Jomon Roppongi

Just like for breakfast or lunch, there are way too many dinner options in the area of Roppongi. However, we would like to recommend this izakaya called Jomon. There is a special unique vibe to this place, also the service is great, and of course, the food is astounding. 

Let us know what are your recommendations for the Roppongi area.

If you liked the area and you would like to live here for a reasonable price, please check our furnished apartments in Roppongi.

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mobile

The best mobile plans and how to join them

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The best mobile plans and how to join them

Just 5 years ago it was almost impossible to find a free sim phone and a mobile internet plan that wouldn’t cost at least ¥10,000 per month. Today the situation is completely different. Many phone users do not know, but now there is plenty of providers that offer cheap (some of them are literally free of charge) internet plans. Below you will find some of the companies with the best mobile plans and how to join them.

IIJMIO

IIJMIO is a low-cost mobile provider. Its internet works on a DOCOMO base, which means that it covers the whole country and that the connection is good. There are several plans. Starting from less than ¥1,000 per month. Another good thing is that if you do not use all of your data in one month, it will be transferred to the next month. 

Rakuten Mobile

Rakuten is a popular online retailing company. About a year ago they also started to provide mobile internet. The plans are very cheap. Some are even offered for free (for time being). But be noted that the coverage of Rakuten is weaker than DOCOMO, so you might have some difficulties staying connected outside of Tokyo. 

OCN mobile

It is another player in the market of cheap mobile providers. For example, one of the current plans offers 10 GB for just ¥1,760. 

UQ mobile

UQ provides mobile planes for a good value. They even have special plans for people who do not only use data but also need to make many phone calls. So if you call a lot, definitely check them out.

Aeon mobile

Many might know Aeon as a chain of malls across Japan, but they also have a mobile service. You can choose between buying a phone and a sim or just getting a sim card. The variety of plans is pretty impressive, so you can choose the one that meets your needs exactly. Starting from 500M all the way to 50GB in data plans.

Great deals, aren’t they? And you don’t need to commit to the big companies for years with monthly bills that easily go over ¥10,000 per month. So how do you join these programs? It is very easy. All of them usually have small shops inside Bic Camera or along the shopping streets, or even online. 

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Halloween

Helloween Events in Tokyo

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Halloween Events in Tokyo 2021

Halloween is really awesome in Japan. There are many events related to this day and also many spooky yummy treats that you can buy. From this post, you will learn about the best Halloween-related events that Tokyo has to offer this year, from buffets to parades.

Halloween Sweet Buffets

You can find all-you-can-eat desserts buffets all-around a year. However, during the month of October, they become just so much cooler with all these Halloween-themed decorations. So definitely check them out:

School of Wizards & Witches by Marble Lounge at Hilton Shinjuku. The buffet is inspired by Harry Potter books and movies.

“Pink & Shadow” Halloween Sweets Buffet at Conrad Tokyo. Enjoy Bewitchingly Beautiful Halloween Sweets presented in Two Worlds.

Dark Fantasy Sweets Buffet at Hotel Metropolitan, Ikebukuro. Plenty of special Halloween treats that look like a Suica card penguin.

Sumida aquarium

Sumida Aquarium, which is located in Tokyo Sky Tree, only for this month turned its kaleidoscope tunnel jellyfish exhibition into the Halloween version. Eight jellyfish aquariums embedded in the wall will be decorated with background panels with patterns such as witches and pumpkins. In addition, each aquarium will introduce one of seven mysteries about the ecology of jellyfish, such as “Jellyfish have no heart” and “Actually, they have a lot of eyes”. 

Tokyo Disneyland 

Every year and this year is not an exception, Tokyo Disneyland holds Halloween Parade and many other activities related to this day. So get dressed up and come to take a part in the event. While the tourists still cannot enter Japan, you can have the place pretty much for yourself.

National Azabu Costume Contest

Grocery shop National Azabu in Hiroo is having a photo contest. They will set up a photo booth from October 22nd to October 31st. All you need to do is: dress up in your scariest costume and take your best shot in the booth. Then send the picture with the hashtag #nahcc2021.
National Azabu staff will repost the entry photo on Instagram. The photo with the most likes will be a winner. A winner will be announced on November 1st. 

Halloween goods

Tokyo started its Halloween preparations already in August. By now you can find Halloween goods literally everywhere. In 100 yen shops, such as Daiso or Can Do, or in grocery shops such as National Azabu. Also, shops such as Muji sell themed goods. 

And for the sweet treats head to the closest convenience store, where you will find #pumpkineverything sweets and other yummy stuff.

For more posts like this one check out our blog.

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Halloween

Helloween Events in Tokyo

Posted by on | Featured

Halloween Events in Tokyo 2021

Halloween is really awesome in Japan. There are many events related to this day and also many spooky yummy treats that you can buy. From this post, you will learn about the best Halloween-related events that Tokyo has to offer this year, from buffets to parades.

Halloween Sweet Buffets

You can find all-you-can-eat desserts buffets all-around a year. However, during the month of October, they become just so much cooler with all these Halloween-themed decorations. So definitely check them out:

School of Wizards & Witches by Marble Lounge at Hilton Shinjuku. The buffet is inspired by Harry Potter books and movies.

“Pink & Shadow” Halloween Sweets Buffet at Conrad Tokyo. Enjoy Bewitchingly Beautiful Halloween Sweets presented in Two Worlds.

Dark Fantasy Sweets Buffet at Hotel Metropolitan, Ikebukuro. Plenty of special Halloween treats that look like a Suica card penguin.

Sumida aquarium

Sumida Aquarium, which is located in Tokyo Sky Tree, only for this month turned its kaleidoscope tunnel jellyfish exhibition into the Halloween version. Eight jellyfish aquariums embedded in the wall will be decorated with background panels with patterns such as witches and pumpkins. In addition, each aquarium will introduce one of seven mysteries about the ecology of jellyfish, such as “Jellyfish have no heart” and “Actually, they have a lot of eyes”. 

Tokyo Disneyland 

Every year and this year is not an exception, Tokyo Disneyland holds Halloween Parade and many other activities related to this day. So get dressed up and come to take a part in the event. While the tourists still cannot enter Japan, you can have the place pretty much for yourself.

National Azabu Costume Contest

Grocery shop National Azabu in Hiroo is having a photo contest. They will set up a photo booth from October 22nd to October 31st. All you need to do is: dress up in your scariest costume and take your best shot in the booth. Then send the picture with the hashtag #nahcc2021.
National Azabu staff will repost the entry photo on Instagram. The photo with the most likes will be a winner. A winner will be announced on November 1st. 

Halloween goods

Tokyo started its Halloween preparations already in August. By now you can find Halloween goods literally everywhere. In 100 yen shops, such as Daiso or Can Do, or in grocery shops such as National Azabu. Also, shops such as Muji sell themed goods. 

And for the sweet treats head to the closest convenience store, where you will find #pumpkineverything sweets and other yummy stuff.

For more posts like this one check out our blog.

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PCR tests and certificates in Tokyo

PCR Tests and travel certificates in Tokyo

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PCR tests and travel certificates in Tokyo

A list of clinics that provide PCR Tests and travel certificates in Tokyo.

Mita Kokusai Building Clinic

Provides PCR tests for international travel. The results can be ready on the same day if booked before 10 AM. English service available.  PCR test costs ¥33,000 (additional fees can be applied). More details and reservations here.

Shinjuku Ekimae Clinic

In case of a positive result, the test will be provided for free, you only pay the clinic fee, about ¥2,000. If the result is negative, the price will be ¥15,000. However, the certificate is issued only in Japanese. More details here (Japanese only).

Mame Clinics

They have several clinics around the city. The certificate can be issued in English or Japanese and it will cost additional ¥3,000. PCR test itself is ¥33,000. You can make a reservation online (Japanese only). Note that the payment is cashless. 

Hibiya Clinic

Another clinic where you can get the test, and the results will be available on the following day. By following this link you can apply for the test and also check about the price. 

T Care Clinic Hamamatsucho

The test and the certificate prices start from ¥22,000. You should make a reservation online.

T Care Clinic

You can also order a PCR kit. One test is ¥10,900 (5 tests – ¥49,500). A certificate costs additional ¥5,500 and can be issued in English. More details (Japanese only).

Ueno Royal Garden CLinic

This clinic was established in 2017 and they provide multilingual medical services. Now they can send you a PCR test by mail. The results can be ready in three hours. The cost of one test is only ¥4,000. And if you buy a set of 10, it will cost just ¥30,000 – sale price.

 
You should also know that certificated for Hawaii and China require additional fees regardless of the clinic where you do the test.
Also, please keep in mind that the instructions for travelers change constantly. Before you go on a trip and sign for a test, call the Japanese MOFA and also the embassy of a country you are going to, to get the latest information about the requirements.
 
We hope you all stay safe and healthy.
 
If you are not going abroad, check our other articles in regards to what you can do while in Tokyo:
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the olympic rings

5 Top Olympic-Related Events in Tokyo Right Now

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5 Top Olympic-Related Events in Tokyo Right Now

Despite all the obstacles, the Tokyo Olympics 2020 is happening right now. It might have not been the ideal format, and even those who had the tickets were not able to enjoy the sporty events live. But it does not mean you can not enjoy it at all. Even though the main event is closed to the public, some Olympic events are available. So make sure you do not miss them!

Pavilion Tokyo 2021

Pavilion Tokyo 2021 is organized by the Tokyo Metropolitan Government and it features the works of some world-famous Japanese architects and artists. The pavilions are located within a 3km radius of the New National Stadium. There are volunteers who will give you a map with all the locations and explanations, so you can experience the art yourself.

Japan Olympic Museum

This museum is located just across from the National stadium. Of course, the main purpose of the museum is to teach you the history of the Olympics. But the place is also very interactive. Here you will be able to compare yourself to the world’s more rewarded athletes, etc. 

Olympic Agora

This event takes place at Coredo Muromachi Teracce. It is a mix of physical exhibits and digital ones. You can purchase a ticket online and visit the venue or they also holding some online tours. Make sure to check their homepage for more details. 

Tokyo Waterfront City

If you are looking for a nice Olympic-related photo for your social media, you must check out this place. The various events that were supposed to be held here were canceled because of the state of emergency. However, the Olympic rings are still there and will make a great background for your snaps. And if you stay until darkness, you will be able to see the Rainbow bridge lighted up with the Olympic colors. 

Official Shops

If you are interested in purchasing merchandise that will remind you of this Olympics, there are many shops around the city selling products with the official Olympic logos. Some of the biggest shops are located in Bic Camera Shinjuku West Store, Tokyo Sports Square in Marunouchi, Tokyo Solamachi East Yard (Sky Tree Mall), Aqua City Odaiba, and others.

Hopefully, the ideas in this article will get you into this special Olympic mood and vibe. 

Our other articles about the things to do in Tokyo right now:

Best Beer Gardens in Tokyo Right Now

Camping Options (Very) Close to Tokyo

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Beer BBQ garden in Tokyo

Best Beer Gardens in Tokyo Right Now

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Best Beer Gardens in Tokyo Right Now

The summer is here, and usually, Tokyo has many beer gardens and rooftop terraces open this time of the year. However, due to the state of emergency, this year many of them closed or do not serve alcohol. In this article, we gathered a list of places that were able to make a proper arrangement and they serve the alcohol despite the restrictions. 

Other events you can enjoy in Tokyo this summer:

Sake and Beer Tours.

Best Beaches Around Tokyo Area.

Camping Options (Very) Close to Tokyo.

Wild Beach Shinjuku

This beer garden in Shinjuku is located on the rooftop of Lumine Est. Here you will be able to order alcoholic drinks, such as beer, wine, and various cocktails. The place is divided into 5 zones: luxury terrace, runway beach, anniversary room, forest garden, and glamping deck. You can choose any area and just chill with friends, or family, or even by yourself. Also, it is open all day long, so great lunch deals and even tea time sets are available too. This is a true spot of relaxation in the busy Shinjuku.

Beer Terrace 1949 Hibiya Saroh

Hibiya Saroh is a garden restaurant founded in 1949. Probably the oldest in Japan. Enjoy nature and a selection of beer and meals on the terrace in Hibiya Park. On the second floor, there is a space which you can rent for a private event or celebration. The place is open all day long and kids are welcome. On the weekends it is recommended to make a reservation. 

BBQ Terrace Chaleur Omotesando

Enjoy BBQ right in the center of the most fashionable area in Tokyo. Here you can rent all the equipment for BBQ. As for the food, you can bring your own ingredients or buy them here. Additionally, to a great meal, you will get also a very nice view. But please be noted that during the weekdays the terrace is open only for two hours in the evening and you need to make a reservation. 

Matsuya Ginza Beer Garden

After being closed last year due to well-known reasons, this year the beer garden is reopening with a new food menu and drinks. However, in order to keep it safe, the number of seats was reduced by 40% and alcohol won’t be served to groups larger than 2 people. The garden will be open from late afternoon until 8 PM every day, reservations are recommended.

Tenku Lounge Shinjuku

Another beer and BBQ garden in Shinjuku which is open from lunchtime until midnight. You can enjoy a course menu or a la carte, and, of course, the alcoholic drinks, such as beer, wine, and pretty much anything you wish. Before making a reservation, make sure to check their website, because they have many discounted coupons.

Enjoy your summer in Tokyo with tasty food, refreshing drinks, and good vibes. 

All the details in the article are correct at the time of writing it. But is highly advised to contact the venue before visiting it, as some changes might be applied. 

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onsen tattoo

6 tattoo-friendly onsens near Tokyo

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6 tattoo-friendly onsens in Tokyo area

It is well known that for various reasons Japan does not welcome tattoos. People with tattoos are banned from entering some of the public facilities, such as gyms, pools, and onsens. However, there are exceptions and places where you can enjoy the Japanese hot spring regardless of your body art. Here is the list of 6 tattoo-friendly onsens near Tokyo.

Yamato no Yu

It is an exquisite hot spring resort in Chiba prefecture that can be reached in less than two hours from Tokyo station. At Yamato no yu, you can enjoy both indoor and outdoor baths. Also, the rooms with private baths are available but require a reservation in advance. Along with the onsen, you can enjoy here the restaurant which serves the dishes made of fresh local ingredients, as well as other facilities such as a gym, pool, and spa. More information here.

Shogai seishun no yu Tsurutsuru Onsen

This beautiful onsen is located in Hinode and it will take you two hours to get there from Shinjuku station. Here you will find several indoor baths and several outdoor baths. Also, if you are hungry, you can find here a nice restaurant serving various Japanese dishes, such as soba, fish, meat. If you rent a room, then private dining in the room is another option. Needless to mention this hot spring facility is also tattoo-friendly. So if you decide to make it your 1-day trip destination, make sure to check their website for the most updated information and for the special campaigns. 

Okutama Onsen Moegi no yu

Just one train away from Shinjuku station, this very nice onsen will be waiting for you right next to Okutama station. Indoor and outdoor baths with upstream and downstream waters have different healing effects. Additionally, there is a foot bath, and of course, a restaurant serving noodle dishes, fish, meat, and desserts. Next to the onsen, you will also be able to find an art museum, a fishing spot, and even two campsites. If you come here, a rememberable weekend is promised. For more details, go here (Japanese only). 

Hasunuma Onsen

Ota city is one of the Tokyo wards, and it is famous for its baths and onsens. There are over 40 baths just in this area. Some of them are very strict when it comes to the customers with tattoos, and some are more tolerant. Kamata Onsen is one of the popular onsens, which has no regulation policy against tattoos. It is a popular spot with black water coming straight from a natural hot spring. The place is also open until 1 AM, so you can pop up here even after work on a weekday (except for Wednesdays, when it’s closed).

Spadium Japon

“Spadium Japon” is one of the largest SPA resorts in Japan and it can be reached in just about one hour from central Tokyo. There are 15 baths and saunas, including natural hot springs. As for the tattoos, as long you have only one tattoo, which can be easily covered, you can enter the facility. For more details, campaigns, and discounted tickets, remember to check their homepage.

Kagoiwa Onsen Ryokan

Last but not least, Kagoiwa is an onsen located in a popular tourist destination that also permits tattoos if you keep the simple rules of the bathing etiquette. Here you can enjoy the natural hot springs and also the views of Mt. Nantai.  The onsen is located in a ryokan, a traditional Japanese hotel, which means you can stay there for a night and enjoy Japanese meals made of local ingredients. For more details and bookings, see their homepage. 

As time goes by, more and more places start to accept tattoos. There is still a long way to go, but these 6 hot springs are the beginning. We hope you visit and enjoy them.

Check out our other posts about the fun activities in Tokyo:

Sake and Beer Tours

Best Beaches Around Tokyo Area

Camping Options (Very) Close to Tokyo

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