Summer food to fight the NATSUBATE

Posted by Lior on July 15, 2021 | Featured

Summer Food to Fight the NATSUBATE

Like in many countries, people in Japan believe that it is important to eat the food which is in season. When we think about seasonal ingredients, we usually think about fruits and vegetables. However, in Japan, there are also seasonal fish and dishes that are eaten during a specific time of the year. In summer, it’s believed, these dishes should help you fighting what is called in Japanese “natsubate“, the summer fatigue. So what are these dishes and their ingredients?

Unagi (eel):

You can get unagi all year round, but it is especially common to eat it in summer, as unagi is packed with vitamins, especially vitamins B1 and B2, which help to defeat natsubate. A tradition of eating eel during the summer days started back in the Nara period (over 1,300 years ago) when it was food for the poor. It was known that it was healthy, but people back then did not how to cook it, so it would taste good, therefore only poor people used to eat it. Nowadays when it is cooked in a special sauce, it became a beloved dish of many. However, now it is pretty expensive and considered to be a delicatessen. Yet many try to get it at least on special days.

Ume (Japanese plum):

Japanese plum is rarely eaten fresh. It is often pickled and used in various dishes. Pickled plum has antibacterial effects and helps to prevent food poisoning. Many people do not like it as it is very salty and sour, but is very good for the body.

Goya (bitter melon):

Goya has an extremely bitter taste but is also very healthy. There is carotene, potassium, and vitamin C in it. And it is one of the most popular ingredients in Okinawan cuisine, and as we all know, the longevity in Okinawa is one of the longest in the world.

Cold noodles

Japanese types of noodles, such as soba (buckwheat noodles), udon (thick noodles), somen (thin noodles), and even western pasta dishes are often served cold in summer. The noodles are boiled, then cooled, and usually served with mentsuyu, special sauce made of dried tuna flakes, sake, and soy sauce.

Hiyayakko

Hiyayakko is basically chilled tofu served with a soy sauce and some topping such as green onions, bonito flakes, or edamame. This dish is usually served as a side dish, and it is supposed to cool the body on a sweltering day.

Mugicha (barley tea)

Technically it is not food but a drink. In summer, it is served in Japanese traditional restaurants instead of more familiar matcha. That is because it has many health benefits and also can lower the body temperature even when served hot.

Amazake

Another drink on this list, which is made from fermented rice. The drink is rich in vitamin C, amino acids, fiber, and more. All these help to cool the body and help the digestive system to work better.

Anmitsu

Anmitsu is a name of a Japanese dessert made of agar jelly served with fresh fruits and anko (sweet red bean paste) and topped with anmitsu sauce, made from brown sugar and soy sauce. The sauce makes its sweet, and fruits make the dish refreshing. The jelly on its own is almost tasteless.

Warabi mochi

Even though it is called “mochi”, it is not made from rice, rather from starch produced from the bracken root. Warabi mochi is soft and chewy, and usually topped kinako (made of soybean) powder, which gives it a nutty flavor.

Kakigori (shaved ice)

Last but definitely not least, kakigori is a Japanese shaved ice. It was used to be served with simple flavored sweet syrups, sometimes with condensed milk, too. However, in the past 2-3 years, there is a real kakigori boom in Japan. There are many cafes that serve only kakigori and make it more unique by using seasonal ingredients and many seasonal fruits. They also make really crazy toppings, foams, sauces, creams, etc. Sometimes you can even find non-sweet versions topped with fried eggs and noodles.

These are probably the most popular summer dishes and desserts in Japan. If you haven’t tried them yet, you should use your opportunity, because now this food can be easily found and it is most delicious when in season.

Check out our other posts about Japanese food and cafes:

Gluten-Free Cafes and Restaurants in Tokyo that You Should Know

Best spots to buy bread in Tokyo

Best International Supermarkets in Tokyo

Tags: expatlife, food, japanesefood, japanesesweets, roppongi, shibuya, summerfood, summerintokyo, tokyo, tokyoexpats, tokyolife

Sake and Beer Breweries – Day-trips from Tokyo

Posted by Lior on July 6, 2021 | Featured

Sake and Beer Tours

Tokyo is full of things to do. Anyone can find here a place to visit which meets their interests. Even if one of your main interests is alcohol, and particularly japanese sake and beer, we got you covered with our suggestion for sake and beer day-trips from Tokyo. We hope that from this blog you will pick up a few ideas for your next weekend adventure.

Ishikawa brewery

The brewery was established in the 19th century and located in western Tokyo, about 50 minutes by train from Shinjuku station. On the site you will be able to take a 1-hour kura (Japanese warehouses) tour, which also includes visiting beer museum and sake tasting. There are also two restaurants, Italian and Japanese, and a souvenir shop where you can buy sake home. Please note that prior reservation for the tour are required. More details you will find on their homepage.

Toshimaya Brewery

Located in Higashimurayama, about 1-hour from the central Shinjuku, it is one of the oldest breweries in Japan. Toshiyama started a sake bar back in 1596. The way of brewing was passed from generation to generation and now we can taste the almost original flavor. For more information, please check their website (Japanese only).

Tamura Brewery

This is a 200 years old family-owned brewery located 40 km from the central Tokyo in a green place among rivers and mountains. They offer free sake tours and of course lots of sake that you can buy home. For more details, please check this page.

Izumibashi Brewery

Izumibashi is another famous establishment. At Izumibashi they believe that the whole process from growing rice to brewing sake should take place in the same appellations, just like it happens with the grapes and wines. You can come here for a sake tour or for a omakase course dining experience with sake pairing as an option. You can book either of these here.

Ozawa Sake Brewery

Ozawa brewery, samous for its brand “Sawanoi”, started back in 1702, what makes it the oldest sake brewery in Tokyo. It takes about 1 hours and a half to get there from a central Tokyo, but it is worth your time. On the site you will find restaurants, you will be able to take a sake tasting tour, and you will totally forget that you are still in Tokyo due to the beautiful greenery and landscapes that you can see and enjoy here. All the additional information, please check on their homepage.

Ide-Jozoten Sake Brewery

Ide-Jozoten has been producing a Japanese sake for more than 180 years always using the fresh water from Mt. Fuji. Book their tour and enjoy delicious sake and beautiful scenery.

Suntory Mushashino Beer Factory

Suntory beer tour makes it a very short trip from Shinjuku station. At the factory you will be able to get an explanation about the beer-crafting process and taste the sample. The tour is free, but you need to make a reservation.

Sapporo Beer Chiba Factory

For tasting this Hokkaido beer, you do not need to make the whole way to the north island, just head to Chiba. The factory will allow you to have a tour in the museum and the factory (tasting included),. And after the tour you can enjoy their beer garden restaurant facing the Tokyo bay. On a sunny day it might be a beautiful day trip. Check the details here.

Kirin Brewery Yokohama Factory

Another beer brewery that is conveniently located in the nearby city of Yokohama. The tour is free but it requires a reservation and it is conducted in Japanese. But who cares when you get to sample three different kind os beer at 11:30 AM. And later just head to a fund day in Yokohama.

Hope you liked the ideas in this article. Due to a current situation, please remember to check the most recent information of each facility before going there.

Tags: beer, beerfactory, brewery, daytour, expatlife, japanesesake, nihonshu, thingstodointokyo, tokyo, tokyoexpats, tokyogourmet, tokyolife

Bonsai, ikebana, tea… Tokyo is the place to learn about these.

Posted by Lior on July 1, 2021 | Featured

Bonsai, ikebana, tea... Tokyo is the place to learn about these

You probably know that Japan has a very rich culture. There are so many cultural and social aspects in regards to a tea ceremony, or growing bonsai trees, or mastering calligraphy. However, for many, these are just the titles that they heard of but never tried to experience themselves. If you are in Tokyo, know that you have many opportunities to learn more about Japanese culture and even take part in the related classes and courses.

Bonsai

Bonsai is the art of producing and growing small trees that mimic the shapes of real-life trees. It is not about making genetic modifications to a tree, rather than growing small trees from the original seeds. The main purpose is to please the grower and the viewer.

Bonsai experience:

Bonsai school at Shunkaen Bonsai Museum.

Here you will be given a short lecture about bonsai, and then you will get to make your own bonsai. The whole process takes about 1 hour and the classes are held every day except for Mondays. 1 bonsai class will cost you 5,000 yen. For more details visit the class homepage.

Ikebana

Ikebana or Kadou is a Japanese art of flower arrangement. It started during Heian Period, in the late 8th century. At first, ikebana did not have deep meaning and was very simple. Later Ikebana schools and styles started to develop and became much more sophisticated. Today it is considered one of the most important Japanese cultural traditions.

Ikebana experience:

Ohara School.

The school offers affordable Ikebana classes in English. You can participate in a trial class and if you like it, you can sign up for one of the many courses they offer. At the end of the course, you will be granted your own Ikebana certification. You can find the additional information here.

Tea Ceremony

Tea ceremony, “Chadou”, is a cultural activity of preparing a powdered green tea called matcha. The idea and the inspiration come from Zen Buddhism. The ceremony can be formal, in this case it is called “Chaji”, or informal, “Chakai”. The tea ceremony involves many steps and puts great attention to the most minor details, therefore many people find it so fascinating. In Tokyo, there are many places where you can watch the ceremony, and also many classes where you can master the art of the tea ceremony yourself.

Tea Ceremony experience:

Happo-en is a beautiful traditional garden in Takanawa, Minato ward, where you can view some of the oldest bonsai trees and enjoy matcha with the traditional sweets. If you are interested to take a part in the ceremony yourself, you can choose from 3 different options. The time required is about 1 hour and the prices vary from 1,100 yen to 8,800 yen. More details here.

Maikoya in Shinjuku combines wearing a kimono experience and a tea ceremony experience. The experience provided in English and the atmosphere is very friendly. Please check the details here.

Calligraphy

Japanese calligraphy is the artistic writing of Chinese characters and Japanese hiragana and katakana. Japanese calligraphy also takes its inspiration from Zen Buddhism. It means that when you practice calligraphy, you are supposed to clear your mind and let the flow in you come out on the paper. Every stroke you make cannot be corrected, so if you are not at peace it will be shown on the paper.

Calligraphy experience:

Calligraphy with Yunagi, who started practicing calligraphy when she was just 5 years old. Now she has a teaching certificate and many years of experience. In her class, you can choose if you want to try to do calligraphy on paper or on a t-shirt, or even the wind bell. Please make your booking through voyagin.

Calligraphy with Tenshin, who holds the highest rank of “Shihan” and has almost 5 decades of experience in teaching calligraphy. Tenshin will not only teach you calligraphy, but he will also willingly answer all of your questions about it. The cost is 6,000 yen per class, but all the profits go for the NPO, which helps HIV-diagnosed kids in Vietnam. You can book a class with him here.

Koto

The koto is a Japanese plucked half-tube zither instrument and the national instrument of Japan. It is 180 cm long, made of Paulownia tree, and usually has 13 strings.

Koto experience:

You can take a koto class in Shinjuku. For more details check this.

Culinary Classes

Japanese cuisine (Washoku) goes way beyond sushi and offers a variety of dishes using regional and seasonal fresh ingredients. Even people, who do not like cooking western dishes, claim that cooking Japanese food is much nicer because it feels like meditation.

Japanese culinary classes:

If you want to check these claims yourself, there are many English classes where you can learn at least the basics of Japanese food and cuisine.

Tokyo Cooking School is located in Tomigaya but also offers online classes. The class in the studio costs 7,000 yen. In the class, you will learn about the ingredients and then you will cook the dishes yourself. The menu changes with the seasons.

At Cooking School Yuka Mazda Yuka sensei can teach you how to make various Japanese dishes. You can find the menu and all the booking details on her website.

Of course, Japanese cuisine is not only about ramen and sushi. Wagashi, or Japanese sweets, is also an important part of it. Foreigners are usually fascinated by the beauty and delicacy of these little sweets. Now you can learn how to make them yourself at Simply Oishii Wagashi School. They offer courses at the end of which you will get a certificate. Or you can simply attend one-time class.

At the times like these, when we cannot travel as easily as we were used to, it is the best chance to learn something new in Japan and about Japan. Either face to face or even online. Please do not hesitate to try new things and maybe get more connected with the place where you live.

If you need more ideas for fun activities in Tokyo, visits our other posts.

Tags: bonsai, calligraphy, kodo, teaceremony, tokyoexpats, tokyogourmet, tokyolife, wagashi, washoku

Gluten-Free Cafes and Restaurants You Need To Know

Posted by Lior on June 16, 2021 | Featured

Gluten Free Cafes and Restaurants in Tokyo that You Should Know

If you or someone in your family or among your friends have celiac disease, finding a good place for eating out can be somewhat a problem. In this article, we want to make your life a lit bit easier and introduce you to some gluten-free cafes and restaurants in Tokyo.

Before you dig into this post, make sure to check our other food-related posts, such as vegan food and halal options in Tokyo.

Premium Sow

Premium Sow in Daikanyama has been around for about a year now. This both gluten-free and all-vegan cafe serves mainly desserts, such as ice cream and cakes, but they also have savory cake salé.

Gluten-Free T’s Kitchen

A certified gluten-free spot located in Roppongi. Central location and terrace seating make this cafe a convenient gathering place if you need to avoid gluten. On the menu, you will find plenty of options: ramen and curry, pasta and sandwiches, desserts and cakes, and so much more. Unfortunately, this cafe is not open every day, so make sure to check their website, for the changing opening hours.

Where is a Dog?

Where is a Dog recently moved from Waseda to Kichijoji. It is very popular among people interested in gluten-free menu options. They have a varied menu for dining-in and for the takeaways. They also make adjustments for the customers, who cannot eat meat or consume dairy.

Tama Kuchen

Tama Kuchen is a cafe and bakery with outdoor seating in Tama area. It serves the famous Baumkuchen along with many other baked goods and desserts. They also have an online shop, where you can buy gluten-free products and got them delivered to your house.

Breadbowl cafe “Focolare”

This cafe is famous, even was featured on TV, for the gluten-free bread bowls that you can get here. Another popular item on the menu is their croquette burger. It looks mouthwatering and tastes very very good.

Kakurenbo

Located in Machiya on the Chiyoda Line, it is a fully gluten-free and celiac-friendly organic restaurant. Serving anything from appetizers, pasta, main dishes, and desserts. Of course, they have a take-out menu, too, and even an online store.

Ω Cafe

O Cafe is a very cute and cozy cafe, which is located in nearby city, Yokohama. This place is popular among girlfriends and couples. Here you can find all gluten-free menu, including famous gluten-free french toast. Everything tastes delicious and the service is very friendly too.

BOND

Bond is probably the most exceptional (and expensive) restaurant on the list. Its concept is completely gluten-free and sugar-free dishes made of seasonal ingredients and using unique cooking techniques. Another specialty of this place is pairing Japanese sake with the dishes. No doubt, after visiting this place you will feel the bond with the staff and the place.

Breizh Cafe

Breizh is a famous french creperie with branches in France and in Japan. They have several locations in Tokyo, such as in Omotesando, Shinjuku Takashimaya, and Kagurazaka. They serve savory galettes and sweet galettes. The crepe is made of buckwheat flour, so it is healthy and gluten-free. However, other ingredients may contain some gluten. Therefore, if you are really allergic, make sure to confirm with the staff that the dish is safe for you to consume.

As you can see, finding a good gluten-free place in Tokyo is possible. Menu is also quite diverse, and you can choose from savory and desserts, from Japanese meals and European meals, and from different budget options. If you know more gluten-free places in the city, please share them with us in the comment section.

Tags: cafes, celiac, expatlife, glutenfree, restaurants, roppongi, shibuya, tokyo, tokyoexpats, tokyogourmet, tokyolife, tokyowithkids

Best Beaches Around Tokyo Area

Posted by Lior on June 14, 2021 | Featured

Best Beaches Around Tokyo Area

Tokyo is unbelievable! It is a great city and it is a dream of many to live here. However when the summer arrives, it can be a little difficult to stay here and at least daily escapes are necessary. We already have posts about the indoor activities and fun camping locations. In the following article we will bring to you a list of the beaches in the nearby prefectures. Trust us, some of them look just like the best beaches in Okinawa. Hopefully, you will find a few new ideas for a daily trip even if it is not your first year in Tokyo, and you think you are familiar with its surroundings.

Kamakura Yuigahama Beach

This beach has a long history and is considered to be one of the best beaches in Japan. It can be good both for swimming and for surfing. At Kamakura Yuigahama you can find cafes, a surfing school, and also enjoy the fireworks festival in the summer.

Zushi Beach

Zushi is another beach close to Tokyo, but unlike the Kamakura beach, this one is less crowded (most of the time). The beach offers various marine sports such as windsurfing, paddle boarding, swimming, etc. Zushi beach is famous for the Mt. Fuji views on a clear day and for the spring film festival.

Isshiki Beach

Isshiki beach located in the same area as Zushi beach. This is a stunning place surrounded by green and rocky formations. This beach is less fussy and popular among families. It is so beautiful, that even one of the imperial villas was built here.

Chojagasaki Beach

Chojagasaki beach, just like Zushi and Isshiki beaches, is another located in Kanagawa prefecture. From the beach, it is possible to see Mt. Fuji, Izu Peninsula, and Enoshima Island. After or before visiting the beach you can also visit on of the many cafes and restaurants of Hayama town, which is a nice place on its own. If you go there, you should definitely check out the discounted tickets.

Moriya beach

Moriya beach located in Katsuura, Chiba prefecture. Thanks to its clean and deep-blue water, and the beautiful view, it was ranked as one of the best beaches in Japan. At Moriya beach you can enjoy surfing and swimming.

Sarujima Island

Sarujima is inhabitant island, located 10 minutes by ferry from Yokosuka. The island is rich with history and beautiful views. The beach and the cafes are open in July and August. Besides chilling by the sea, make sure you explore the island and check out its the barracks and gun batteries from the times when the island used to protect Tokyo Bay.

Atami Sun Beach

Atami Sun beach is a 400m long sandy beach with tropical palm trees along it. At night it becomes romantic and beautiful when the beach gets illuminated. All these make it one of the most popular beaches nearby Tokyo during the summer months.

Shirahama

In Japanase “shira白” means “white” and “hama浜” means “beach”. And that is exactly what Shirahama is, it is a 800m long white sand beach in Izu. Shirahama is great for surfing. Another thing that makes this beach special is that it even has its own shinto shrine.

Onjuku Beach

You can get to Onjuku beach in about 90 minutes from Tokyo station. The place has a white and sandy wide beach line, what makes it very popular during the swimming season. If you are coming here, make sure to try the local delicacy, spiny lobster.

Okay, okay, so Tokyo might not be the new Maldives, but you can find some really great beaches for the times when you don’t have time or means to go somewhere more distant. What is your favorite beach nearby Tokyo?

Tags: beaches, expatlife, japan, kamakura, rainyseason, summer, tokyo, tokyoexpats, tokyolife, tokyowithkids, travellingjapan

Tokyo Camping Getaway Ideas For You

Posted by Lior on June 9, 2021 | Featured

Camping Options (Very) Close to Tokyo

Many people, when think about Japan, imagine only the skyscrapers of Tokyo and geisha of Kyoto. But Japan is much more than that. And it actually has very beautiful and diverse nature and landscapes. Thus nature-lovers won’t be disappointed. And you even do not need to go too far away from Tokyo. Here are some Tokyo camping getaway ideas.

Wakasu Kaihin-koen Camp-jo

Easily accessible even by the public transportation, Wakasu Kaihin-koen is a park within Tokyo, that permits you to do overnight camping. It is also famous for having many fireplaces and fire circles in case you want to have barbecue. Among the other facilities, there are also fishing, bicycle rentals, and a playground.

More information here.

Jonanjima Seaside Park

This is a seaside park located at Jonajima Ota-ku. The park allows you to do camping or barbecue. You can also play at the beach or at the skateboard plaza. From the park you can also see the ships in the port of Tokyo and airplanes landing at Haneda airport. While this park is accessible by a wheelchair, unfortunately, the pets are not allowed.

More information here.

Otake Campground

Otake Campground is located fairly close to the central Tokyo, but will take you miles away in its vibe. It is located on a creek. There are tents and fishing available. The Otake Limestone Caves and the Otake Falls are also recommended for visiting.

The complete information about the facilities and prices, you can find here.

Hikawa Camp-jo

Located in Okutama, only about 2.5 hours from the central Tokyo, it is a beautiful nature park allowing you and your friends to stay for a day or overnight. For the overnight stay you can rent a tent or a bungalow. If you wish you can have BBQ or eat at the camp’s cafe.

Further information, please find here (Japanese only).

Kanotoen Campground

Kanotoen is another campground in Okutama area. It is a relatively cheap family friendly camping with simple facilities and an access to a river where you can also enjoy fishing. Around the camp you will also find activities like rock climbing and onsen.

Fore more details please visit here.

Hana Hana no Sato Camping Ground

Hana Hana np Sato is located in chiba prefecture. You can get there in about 90 minutes from the central Tokyo. It is a very sceneric, as it placed on former rice terrace. For the best view try to get higher sites. This camp is kids and pets friendly. Here you can get a tant or rent a bungalow, you can have a barbeque or you can dine in the local cafe, which serves freshly baked pizzas. There is a plenty of thing you can do in the area, like some hiking, fishing, and more.

Open Friday-Monday. For more details please visit their website (Japanese only).

Nagatoro Auto Camp-jo

Nagatoro Auto Camp-jo is a camping area in Saitama which offers you glamping (glamorous camping), bungalows, and river sports such as rafting, canoeing, and kayaking.

If you forget anything, there is a shop, where you can buy anything from a package of mayo to towels and mosquito protector.

Operating hours and reservation policy is here.

Kouan Campsite

Kouan Campsite is probably one of the most impressive campgrounds on the list because it offers extremely beautiful view of the Mt. Fuji. As the camp divided into two parts, in order to view the famous mountain, make sure to stay on the north side.

Both tents and cabins are available at the camp, as well as the fireplace area where you can have barbecue.

The camp is about 40 minutes from the Kawaguchiko station. For more details and a price breakdown visit their website.

The Farm – Agrizm Park Chiba Katori

The Farm is an actual farm, which also provides camping services and many many fun activities. You can choose where you want to stay: a tent, a bungalow, or a cottage. The experiences that are available at this site are zip-line, vegetable harvest experience, hot springs, candle making, and other. Since it is a campsite after all, it is possible to make a reservation for BBQ or to dine at their very nice vegetable-based cafe if you are not in a mood to cook yourself.

More information you can find here.

O Park Ogose

This park is located in Saitama, very close to Moomin Valley Park. So probably this is where it got its inspiration from for the spheric tents hidden in the treetops. However if you do not like heights that much, you can find here more traditional sleeping options too. Among the experiences, you can take a part in s’more and BBQ experience, making pizza in a kiln, bonfire night, onsen and spa, and so on and so on.

For the most updated details, goto their homepage (Japanese only).

We hope you like these getaway ideas. For the places you can visit in Tokyo during the rainy days or hot summer days, you can read here and here.

Tags: camping, campingjapan, campingtokyo, expatlife, fuji, thingstodointokyo, tokyoexpats, tokyolife, tokyowithkids

Things with kids during the rainy season 2

Posted by Lior on May 31, 2021 | Featured

Things to do with children during the rainy season in Tokyo - Part 2

It might be difficult to keep the kids entertained during the gloomy days in Tokyo. To make it easier, we collected a few ideas of the things to do with children during the rainy season.

In our last post we recommended animal cafes and playrooms that are available in Tokyo. In this article, we will suggest a few museums and other fun places, where your kids can learn something new and simply have fun.

Legoland Discovery Center Tokyo

Legoland Discovery Center Tokyo is located in Odaiba and contains more than 3 million bricks of Lego. It features Miniland Tokyo – Tokyo’s cityscape and its most famous landmarks. Among other attractions there is also a 4D cinema and the themed rides. A small cafe and a souvenir shop are available too.

In order to enter the park, adults must be accompanied by a child. For more information about the park, check its homepage (Japanese only).

Tokyo Joypolis

Tokyo Joypolis is another themed park located in Odaiba. This indoor park offers more than 20 attractions for both kids and adults.

Something that is very convenient about this park, is that once you purchased a ticket, you are free to come and go throughout the day. Meaning you can play there sometime, then enjoy the shopping in Odaiba, and later come back again for even more fun.

In addition, the venue holds different events, so make sure to check their website for more updated information.

Fire Museum

Tokyo Fire Museum is located in Yotsuya Sanchome, Shinjuku. The entrance is free, and anyone is welcome. For one afternoon both kids and their parents can learn in a fun way about the history of firefighters in Japan. You can find here exhibits such as samurai firefighter costume and other interesting stuff. The audio guide in English is available.

Be noted that you can’t buy any food inside the museum but you are allowed to bring your own bento boxes.

Make sure to check the latest information as well as the opening hours here (Japanese only).

Kidzania

Kidzania Tokyo is a heaven for kids and for their parents, because finally the parents get time to relax while the kids are busy living in their own world, or should we say “city”? Kidzania is 2/3 scale city just for kids, where they can play, work, and make money that they can use for the other activities.

As there are many themed classes and activities, the reservation in advance is highly recommended. On days sales are possible but are a subject to availability. Most of the activities are conducted in Japanese, however the English programs are available too.

Kidzania is located only a short walk from Toyoso station. Meaning you can combine a visit to Kidzania with a visit to Tokyo’s most famous fish market.

Teamlab

Teamlab projects are very popular worldwide. Tokyo is lucky enough to enjoy a few of their major projects, teamLab Borderless and teamLab Planets. Both are extremely fun projects, but the Planets is more interactive. For instance, for most of your stay inside the facility you walk in the water (no worries about the clothing and towels, all is provided).

Note that this activity will be probably more interesting for the bigger kids, rather the really young ones. For the prices and opening hours, make sure to check the official websites (do not count on Google showing you a correct availability).

Snoopy museum

About 1 hour from central Tokyo, there is a new Snoopy Museum. It is a three-story building features a main gallery room, a vintage exhibition, etc. Furthermore, it has now a permanent workshop, where kids and parents can bake the cookies, or create the tot bags, or make other cool stuff. Even though the workshops run all the time, they are very popular and an early reservation is advised.

Of course, a souvenir shop and a cafe are there too. The prices and the opening hours, confirm here. What’s more at the moment online museum is open.

Anpanman museum

The next two spots are technically not in Tokyo but very close to it and definitely worth your attention.

If your kids grow in Japan, they probably know Anpanman. Anpanman is the hero of illustrated books by Takashi Yanase, who has a face made of anpan (sweet roll most commonly filled with red bean paste) and was made into a television animated series in 1988. The long-running series continues to this day, and is very popular among the little ones.

At the Anpanman museum in Yokohama you can find anything related to this character. The museum was recently renovated and now contains of 3 floors with a space for a free play, stage area, and, of course, the shops.

Regarding the opening hours and admission fees please check here.

Cupnoodles museum

Cupnoodles Museum in Yokohama is a fun interactive museum showing a history of instant ramen noodles. At the museum you will find both exhibit part and workshops, where you can create your own cup of noodles. Also, at the museum you will find a playground for kids and a foodcourt that looks like an Asian night market.

The museum is conveniently located in the most popular and well known part of Yokohama, in Minatomirai, what makes it easy to be found.

Aquarium

There are several aquariums in Tokyo. The big three located in Ikebukuro, Sumida, and Shinagawa. It is very entertaining and educating. Also, it is lots of fun not only for the kids, but also for the parents, and literally for anyone. Although all three are very much alike in their features and prices, our personal preference goes to the one in Sunshine city in Ikebukuro. It is bigger than the others, has more zones, and a bigger variety of fish and sea animals.

Sunshine Aquarium, Shinagawa Aquarium, Sumida Aquarium.

Planetarium

Finally, along with the aquariums, there are several planetariums in Tokyo. The planetarium in Ikebukuro is located in Sunshine city, just like the aquarium. And same fore the aquarium inside the Sky Tree, it is the same location as the aquarium.

The aquariums too can be pretty fun. Of course, it will be much more interesting if you can understand the lecture in Japanese, but even if you do not speak the language, the experience is quite impressive.

If you go on a weekend, it is highly recommended to book the tickets in advance.

Konica Minolta Planetarium in Sunshine City, Ikebukuro; Planetaria Tokyo in Yurakucho; Planetarium Tenko in Tokyo Sky Tree.

We hope that this post gave you the ideas for the time spending with your kids and friends during the raining season or basically anytime when you want to do something special with your family.

Tags: expatlife, ikebukuro, kids, kidzania, lego, nakameguro, playgrounds, playrooms, rainyseason, roppongi, shibuya, tokyo, tokyoexpats, tokyolife, tokyowithkids

Things with kids during the rainy season

Posted by Lior on May 25, 2021 | Featured

Things to do with kids during the rainy season in Tokyo - Part 1

It might be difficult to keep the kids entertained during the rainy days in Tokyo. To make it easier, we collected a few ideas for the things to do with kids during the rainy season.

In this article, we will suggest a few playrooms and other covered spaces, where your kids, and sometimes you too, can play and have fun.

Animal Cafes

Firstly, there are many animal cafes in Tokyo. It is a great option for a fun activity, as it teaches the kids how to interact with the animals and also be kind to them.

Playrooms

Secondly, almost every neighborhood has playrooms, available for free or for a symbolic price. Usually they are good for all the ages, starting from the babies through the junior high.

The Deets

Childcare facility open for free to a public 7 days a week. On the second floor you will find rooms where small kids can play, study-rooms for the bigger kids, art and craft rooms, and also a specious gym. If you are coming here for many hours, you can bring your own bento box, or you can enjoy their cafe with a kids-friendly menu, where all the items cost about 400 yen.

Address: 4-6-7 Minami Azabu, Minato-ku, Tokyo 106-0047

Hours: Daily 9:30-20:00, closed all national holidays and Dec 29-Jan 3.

Plaza Akasaka Nandemo

Very much like The Deets, Nandemo has everything kids aged 0-18 might need to keep them busy. But not only the kids get to be entertained here, for the foreigner parents it is a place to meet other parents and also an opportunity to participate in the cooking classes, where you will learn how to make simple traditional Japanese dishes.

Address: 6-6-14 Minami Azabu, Minato-ku, Tokyo 107-0052

Hours: Daily 9:30-20:00, closed all national holidays and Dec 29-Jan 3.

Karasumori Playroom

Located in Nakameguro, Karasumori is a playroom for infants and toddlers. There is a playroom, craft room, and gymnasium. The infants and their parents can also participate in the classes, where they will learn more about the Japanese culture and traditions.

Address: 3-37-27 Kamimeguro, Meguro-ku, Tokyo.

Hours: Monday – Friday 9:00 – 18:00; Saturday and Sunday 9:00 – 17:00; Closed the 2nd & 4th Sundays & national holidays.

Playground Shibuya Kids

This playroom in Shibuya will be good for kids aged 0 to 5. It has several zones, including the sand playpen play and the kitchen area. Also there is a staff who will gladly play with your kid, but even though you have to be there too.

Address: 18-11 Shinsencho, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo.

Hours: Weekdays: 10:00-17:00; weekends and holidays 10:00-18:00.

Cost: Adult (no time limit) 550 yen; Child (1 hour) 1,100 yen (1,320 on weekends and holidays). One time registration fee 300 yen.

Asobono

Asobono is one of the biggest indoor playgrounds in Tokyo and it is located in Tokyo Dome in Bunkyo ward. The playroom is suitable for ages 6 months through elementary. You will be able to find here rooms with toys, dolls and cars, library, and even a gift shop.

Even though the place is not free, and charges 950 yen per person per hour, on a rainy day there might be a wait of 15-30 minutes to get in.

Address: 1-3-61 Korakuen, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo.

Hours: Weekdays 10:00-18:00; weekends and holidays 9:30-19:00.

We hope this gave some idea where beside your own home you can spend the rainy days and keep your kid entertained and maybe learning something new.

Next week we are going to publish a post about even more places where to spend time with your kid.

Tags: animalcafes, expatlife, nakameguro, playgrounds, playrooms, rainyseason, roppongi, shibuya, tokyo, tokyodome, tokyoexpats, tokyolife, tokyowithkids

Next travel destination inside Japan – Hakodate

Posted by Lior on May 18, 2021 | Featured

Next travel destination inside Japan - Hakodate

If you’re looking for your next travel destination in Japan, consider Hakodate as one of your options. Easily accessible from Tokyo by airplane, the flight takes just a little over an hour.

Hakodate is the third-largest city on Hokkaido, Japan’s northernmost island. Known for its iconic views and the freshest seafood and dairy, the city has been influenced by its history as a port city. You can experience this influence in the Bay area and, of course, in Motomachi.

Hakodate offers a lot for tourists, and here are our top recommendations:

Mount Hakodate

Rising 334 meters high, Mount Hakodate provides one of the most breathtaking views of central Hakodate, both during the day and at night when the city is illuminated. It is considered one of Japan’s three most beautiful mountain views, alongside Nagasaki’s Mount Inasa and Kobe’s Mount Rokko.

You can reach the summit by car, bus, or ropeway. We recommend taking the ropeway for its convenience and stunning views during the ascent. On the summit, you’ll find cafes and restaurants where you can enjoy the sunset, have dinner or tea, and admire the night view. You can spend as much time as you like (until the last ropeway), but even 30 minutes at the peak is sufficient if you’re short on time.

Goryokaku Tower and Fort Goryokaku

Built during the final years of the Edo period, Fort Goryokaku played a significant strategic role in the civil war. Open to the public since 1910, it features approximately 1,600 cherry blossom trees, creating an unparalleled atmosphere. For the famous view of the star-shaped garden, head to Goryokaku Tower.

Given the size of the area, we recommend allocating at least 2-3 hours to fully appreciate Goryokaku Tower and Fort Goryokaku.

Motomachi

When Japan opened its doors to foreigners in 1854, many foreign residents chose to settle in the Motomachi area. As a result, Motomachi stands out from typical Japanese neighborhoods.

Motomachi offers several churches representing different denominations and a foreign cemetery. You’ll also find numerous shops and cafes specializing in Russian cuisine and selling Russian goods due to the area’s proximity to Russia. Don’t miss the iconic view of the city from Hachiman-zaka slope, reminiscent of San Francisco.

A highly recommended visit in Motomachi is the Old Public Hall of Hakodate Ward, a beautiful building with breathtaking ocean views from the second floor. Make sure to check the opening hours and take your time exploring the charming streets and cafes in this vibrant area.

Some recommended shops and cafes in Motomachi include Marutamagoya, Chaika, 茶房菊泉, ハコダテソフトハウス北櫻茶, Flower picnic cafe -HAKODATE-, and Cafeteria Moglie.

Morning Market and morning buffets

Morning market

All of Hokkaido and especially Hakodate is famous for the freshest seafood you can taste. The fishes you can get are vary by season, but the staples such as fish eggs or calamari are available throughout the year and are a must try.

Morning market is the best place to do so. Fresh from the sea, the food tastes amazing and the prices are very reasonable. The fish market is located in the center of the city, just about 5-minute walk from Hakodate station.

Morning buffet

If for what ever reason, you can not go to the market, or not everyone in your company is into the seafood, you can check out one of the morning buffets at the hotels and offer the seafood and other breakfast items. One of most famous one is a buffet at the restaurant Azalea, located on the first floor of Hakodate Kokusai Hotel. Not once the buffet was mentioned as one of the best buffets in Hokkaido, and the great thing about this buffet is that it is open to everyone, not just for the guests of the hotel. For 2,500 jpy per person, you can an access to a free flow of morning Japanese and western dishes. Firstly, there is a live kitchen where the chefs will make you a perfect omelette or grill a steak. Secondly there is a plenty of the baked good, fruits, drinks, and of course, the seafood. You are allowed to eat as much of it as you can.

All these make it a great deal, hence it is very popular. You cannot make a reservation for this buffet, so we advice you go there as early as its opening time.

Lucky Pierrot

Another a food-related must is a burger from Lucky Pierrot. Lucky Pierrot is a local burger chain. The prices are very customer-friendly and along with the burgers, you can find here also omuraisu, curry, pizzas, yakisoba, and desserts (the menu vary by branch). The food is great, but the cool thing about this restaurant is that every branch has a theme. In our opinion the coolest one is Lucky Pierrot Jujigai Ginza branch. This is the most Christmasy place we have ever seen. It is like a Christmas movie, like Christmas on steroids. Go there and you will understand it yourself.

Onuma

Onuma is a quasi national park not too far from Hakodate and can be easily reached from Hakodate station. Be noted that the station you need is Onumakoen, one station after Onuma. You should also remember that the access might be easy, but the trains are not very frequent and you are better to check the schedule and the prices for the tickets in advance.

After you are arriving at the station, go to go to the information center and get all the info and all the recommendations about the area, and also some discounted coupons for the attractions.

The place is especially recommended for a visit during a summer time or autumn, however you are more than welcome to come here all year around.

As for the attractions, you can rent a bicycle and go around the lake, or even on foot you can cover most of the trails. Also taking a boat trip can be nice, but the guides speak Japanese only.

After enjoying the nature part, there are also some worth-visiting dining spots.

Food recommendations in Onuma

First, there are a few ice-cream spots, that serve wine-flavored soft-serve, lavender soft-serve, squid ink soft-serve and more. All made of the local products, and dairy in Hokkaido is amazing, so do not miss an opportunity to try it.

Next place we can recommend is a local brewery, Onuma Beer, that won tons of prices. They offer good deals where you can try most of the types of beer they offer. Both dining-in and take-out are available.

Last but not least, Yamakawa Bokujyo Moo Town Cafe Factory, is a small ranch producing milk and beef meat. Their roast beef sandwich as well Philly steak sandwich are highly recommended. But please try a plain glass of cold milk. It is amazing! Without any additives it tastes sweet and nothing like milk you can buy in a supermarket. It is such a delicatessen!

Hakodate Tropical Botanical Garden (Hot-Tubbing Monkeys)

if you want to see monkeys bathing in a hot tub, this is one of the places where you can do it. However, be aware that unlike the park in Nagano prefecture, here we are talking about a botanical garden/zoo. It is very small, and all the monkeys are places in the same small area. It won’t make long to see them all. And then there is also a small yet very beautiful botanical garden. But all combined it won&t take more than 45 minutes of your time. You can keep as the last destination before you are heading back to the airport. Or if you go to Onuma only for a half a day, you can come to the monkeys afterwards.

At the end of your Hakodate adventure, if you need to go back to Honshu, we can recommend instead of taking a flight back to Tokyo, take a ferry to Aomori, and then travel back to Tokyo. It will make another fun attraction with beautiful views along the way.

Our trip to Hakodate was everything we wanted and more. Hope you will enjoy it too.

For those who do not want to leave Tokyo. Check our recommendations for the things to do in Tokyo: here and here.

Tags: buffet, goryokaku, hakodate, hokkaido, japan, luckypierrot, monkeys, morningmarket, motomachi, mounthakodate, onuma, seafood, trip

Gay-Friendly Tokyo Recommendations

Posted by Lior on May 12, 2021 | Featured

Gay-Friendly Tokyo Recommendations

Tokyo is considered to be a safe and friendly city for gays. Tokyo even has its famous gay district, Shinjuku Ni-chome, with more than 300 gay-friendly businesses. In this article, we will explain a bit about some differences in gay etiquette in Japan and also name gay-friendly Tokyo recommendations from the locals.

Etiquette:

American-style bars with shot-bars and dance music can be found in Tokyo, but the majority of the bars look different. We are talking about a more intimate atmosphere where the customers and a bartender (known as “mama” but being a man) can chat.

Also, before visiting a bar, check if it’s an “only men”, “only women”, or mixed. Even today, the separation by gender is still common in Japan.

Another commonsense rule is that you should respect other customers’ privacy. Before taking too many photos or videos, make sure it is actually allowed and people do not mind. As said, the bars tend to be small, and some people might not be willing to end up appearing on your social media by the end of the night.

The last rule is saying, that you do not have to tip, but you are expected to treat the bartender and pay for his drinks.

Now, when we understand the rules a little better, here are some recommendations.

Bars

Usagi Bar

Usagi Bar is a tiny bar, which looks almost like someone’s apartment. Very intimate where all the customers know each other. The bartender who is also the owner is very charismatic and will make you feel at home.

Arty Farty

As a contra to Usagi Bar, Arty Farty is much bigger and has a spacious dance floor. The place can get completely packed on the weekends. All these make it a great spot for a hook-up if this is what you are looking for.

Clubs

New Sazae

New Sazae is one of the oldest and most popular gay clubs in Tokyo. It is also considered to be the best for drag shows. This club was loved by no other than Freddy Mercury and also by the cast of “Queer Eye”.

Dragon Men

Dragon Men is also located in Shinjuku Ni-chome and considered to be one of the most popular spots in Tokyo for the gay community. The crowd is usually a mix of foreigners and locals who are looking to have good cocktails and to dance.

Sauna JIN-YA.

Compact-sized gay sauna in Ikebukuro area. JIN-YA has 4 common play areas and a video room. Among other facilities there are also dry sauna, communal bath, and nude rooftop area. By the way, this is also one of the most foreign-friendly saunas in Tokyo in general.

Accommodations:

In Tokyo there are many gay-friendly accommodation options. Of course, we are also welcoming anyone from the community in all of our properties. Please feel to reach out if you are looking for a furnished accommodation in central Tokyo.

Tags: expatlife, gaysintokyo, lgbt, lgbtcommunity, lgbttokyo, roppongi, shinjuku, tokyo, tokyoexpats, tokyolife