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Live Houses in Tokyo – Selected

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Live Houses in Tokyo

Surprisingly or not, there are many live houses in Tokyo. However, with only a few really big and well-known live houses, the majority of them are actually hidden in a small building and on the basement floors. Therefore it might be tricky to find them at first. But no worries! We are bringing you a list of some of the most recommended spots. 

Blue Note Tokyo

Blue Note Tokyo is going to be probably the biggest and the most famous life house on this list. This well-established venue is the place to be if you want to enjoy live jazz music. Conveniently located in the posh Aoyama district, this place offers live performances by the best artists, as well as an upscale food and drink menu. For more information about the performance schedule, visit their website. 

Kakado

Another fairly popular live house is one called Kakko in Ochanomizu. Unlike Blue Note Tokyo, Kakado focuses on acoustic music. In addition to the quite big size of the venue, it gives you really good vibes and a cozy atmosphere. You can check their policy and schedule here. 

Mona Records

When writing about a music scene in Tokyo, you cannot avoid writing about Shimokitazawa locations as well. The one we recommend is Mona Records. The place is famous for hosting J-indie artists and for the great atmosphere. The live house is on the 3rd floor, while on the 2nd floor you will find a nice cafe with great food to have before the show. 

KGR (N)

As a contra to the previous place in Shimokita, KGR is located in the less expected area for the live house, in Kagurazaka. However almost right away after it opened in 2017 it became one of the hottest venues in the city. Hence, if you are considering visiting it, you better make your reservation a couple of months in advance. The space itself will give you great vibes, so you can be sure, you are going to have the time of life here. 

Cotton Club

Last but not least on this list, Cotton Club in Marunouchi, which was opened in 2005. The idea of this venue is to bring back the glory of the golden age of the original Cotton Club from New York, which gave a stage to big names such as Duke Ellington and many other great artists. Not just the idea of this live house is nice, but the whole space looks like something that could be on Broadway. A nice evening here will become a cherished memory for anyone. 

With so many great options, it is very easy to get lost and not know where to go. We hope you liked our offers. If you have your own recommendations, we would like to know them. Please leave them in the comments. 

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whiskey library

Tokyo alcohol scene – best bars in Tokyo

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Drinking in Tokyo

The alcohol scene in Japan and especially in Tokyo can be very exciting! The bar scene here is huge. There are bars for any budget, any kind of population, and any preference. In this article we are just doing a small introduction to our favorite spots, so you will safely know where to start your journey through the Tokyo alcohol scene. 

Tokyo Whisky Library

This whisky bar located in posh Minamiaoyama is just incredible. It justifies its name fully! You will understand it from just looking around you – all the walls, from bottom to top, are filled with whiskey bottles. Then comes the menu, which has more than a hundred pages! We know it can be a bit overwhelming even if you think you know your whisky, so don’t hesitate to ask for recommendations. And of course, the interior and the atmosphere inside are just beautiful and relaxing. All these make this bar a must-visit for anyone who likes whisky. 

Golden Gai

Another place to enjoy a couple of drinks in Tokyo is the legendary Golden Gai area in Shinjuku’s Kabukicho. It has been there since the end of World War 2. What started as a prostitution area, now is a 6-streets narrow area with more than 200 bars to choose from. One of our recommendations is a foreign-friendly bar “Not Suspicious”, which is owned by a former monk. 

Bars with a view

Tokyo is a beautiful city with many skyscrapers. No wonder bars with a good view are a thing here. One of the most famous bars in this “category” is definitely the New York Bar on the 52nd floor of Park Hyatt Shinjuku. This bar became especially famous after the movie “Lost in Translation”, with a few scenes that were shot in the bar, was released. Another bar with a stunning view, superb vibes, and great drinks is Xex Atago Green Hills. 

Drinking alone

Just like going to the cafes and restaurants by yourself, also drinking alone is not something strange or awkward here in Tokyo. One of our recommendations for the bars where you can relax on your own is bar Louis in Nihonbashi. The reason for that is that solo drinkers can enjoy customized drinks that are not available for other guests. 

Liquor shops

For the days when you are not feeling like going out, there are some really good shops selling alcoholic beverages.  The places you can try include Enoteca with its many locations across the city. Or Shinanoya, which besides the drinks sells also lots of imported food, which goes very well with the drinks. 

This is only very few bars and shops among hundreds and maybe even thousands of bars in Tokyo, but it is a good starting point. If you are looking for a place where you can find a good alcohol and spend quality time while in Tokyo, everyone and each of them is truly a gem. 

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themed parks

Worth-visit-themed Parks in Tokyo

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Worth-visit-themed Parks in Tokyo

The summer is approaching, and it’s a great opportunity to enjoy some new outdoor and indoor activities. For example, the themed parks. To find them, you do not have to go too far. Even just in Tokyo and its surroundings you can enjoy some very interesting attractions. Here are some worth-visit-themed parks in Tokyo and the closest prefectures that we would like to recommend.

Luxury Flight

Luxury Flight is a flight simulator located at the Haneda airport.  It is a place where you can try being a pilot of Boeing aircraft! This activity can be interesting for kids and grown-ups, for beginners and for professionals. The prices differ by the course you choose. Please refer to their website for more details.

Moomin Park

If you or your kids are fans of Moomins or simply the Scandinavian outdoor esthetics, Moomin Park is the right place for you. The park is located just about one hour away from central Tokyo and easily accessible by public transportation. There are two main areas at the park, Metsa Village and Moomin Valley Park. While the entrance to the latter costs money, entering Metsa Village is free and you only pay at the shops and the restaurants that you are visiting. However, while Metsa Village will give you the general vibes of Finland and Sweden, at Moomin Valley Park you will find attractions related to the books and their illustrator, Tove Jansson.

Yomiuriland

Cherry blossom in spring, pool in summer, illumination in winter. Yomiuriland offers something new every season and can be interesting for kids and adults altogether.  Yomiuriland located within just a 25-minute train ride from Shinjuku station, which makes it super easy to access even if you don’t have a car. At the park, you will find plenty of attractions for any age. Even the bungee jump is available, in case you are looking for something a bit nerve-racking. Shops and cafes are also there, of course. All these will make visiting this park a great escape from the city jungle.

Ninja Trick House

Ninja Trick House is your escape from the real world into the world of the Ninja worries. Moreover, you will be able to become Ninja yourself and experience throwing ninja stars, mastering sword tricks, and learning the ins and outs of undercover espionage, and more. Ninja Trick house is located only a short walking distance from Shinjuku station. The whole activity takes about 45 minutes, which means you can combine it with other attractions, all on the same day.

Tokyo Summerland

Tokyo Summerland is a popular amusement park with a huge indoor pool and many water activities available through the summer months where you can spend the whole day. Be noted, that it is advised to get there early in the morning if you want to get a good spot under the sun. For more info about getting there and what you should bring with you, check their website.

Fuji Q Highland

Fuji Q Highland is an amusement park located near the base of Mt. Fuji in Yamanashi prefecture. Opened in 1968 but interesting and fun even now. At the park, you will find some world-famous roller coasters, as well as other attractions. These include haunted houses, Thomas Land, the attractions themed to Mobile Suit Gundam, Hamtaro, and Neon Genesis Evangelion.

For other fun things to do in Tokyo check this article and this one, too. If you know any other worth-visit-themed parks or fun places that can be easily reached from Tokyo, let us know in the comment section.

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Fugu

Safe Places to Get Fugu in Tokyo

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Safe Places to Get Fugu in Tokyo

In this article, we want to recommend a few safe places to get fugu in Tokyo. You must have heard about fugu and know why the restaurant should be safe. But just in case you haven’t, fugu (河豚; 鰒; フグ, blowfish) is a fish which has tetrodotoxin in it and therefore can be extremely poisonous if not prepared properly. A chef who is allowed to prepare this fish has to be trained for at least three years and must hold a proper certificate. This issue is controlled by law. 

Despite the danger, fugu has become one of the most celebrated dishes in Japan. That is because besides tasting good, fugu is also rich in collagen, protein, and other vitamins. 

Although the liver is considered to be the tastiest part, it is also the most poisonous, therefore serving fugu liver was banned. And chefs who served it anyway due to the customer’s requested were suspended from their jobs. 

Because of its danger, the emperor of Japan is forbidden from eating fugu. However, we are not the royal family. So if you are willing to take the risk and try fugu, you can do it., especially when in Japan. Firstly, outside Japan, there are not many places serving this delicatessen. Secondly, rules regarding preparing it and selling it are more regulated here, in Japan. 

And these are the places that safe and good and most of them are very much affordable.

Tiger Puffer Fish Restaurant “Guenpin”

Guenpin is a restaurant specializing in fugu cuisine. On their menu, you will find the fish prepared in different ways, as sashimi, deep-fried,  hot-pot, BBQ, and more… 

The restaurant has many branches all over the country. We can recommend you the one in Kabukicho. 

Shop details:

1-2-6 Kabukicho, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo Sankei 55 Building B1F

12: 00-21: 00 (Lunch LO15: 00, Dinner LO20: 00, Drink LO20: 00).

Shinjuku Konaya

Konaya in Shinjuku is another restaurant that specializes in fugu cuisine. You can choose from several menus. The interior is very nice and very Japanese. It is highly recommended to make a reservation in advance.

Shop details:

7-13-5 Nishi-Shinjuku, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 12th Sankyo Building 1F.

11:30-14:00; 17:30-23:00 (LO food 22:00, LO drinks 22:30).

Ueno Fugu Kikuchi

Tasty, safe, yey very affordable fugu restaurant you will find in Ueno. This small shop became local’s favorite. You can find fugu dishes as cheap as ¥600-¥1,000 per dish. Of course, several course menus are also available. Be noted that the reservations should be made by phone only. 

Shop details:

1-12-2 Ueno, Taito-ku, Tokyo Kameda Building 1F.

16:00-21:00. Can be open for lunch if you make a reservation in advance. 

Tora Fugu Tei Shibuya

Tora fugu Tei is a fugu specialty shop with many locations across the city. One of them is in Shibuya, which makes it very easily accessible. A la carte menu and lunch and dinner courses available. Everything is reasonably priced and the variety is pretty good.  What is so special about this restaurant is that they offer take-away. Now you can enjoy well and safely prepared fugu dishes at home. 

Shop details:

5-6 Maruyamacho, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo King Building 1F.

Lunch: 11:30-14:00（L.I.13:30、course LO13:00), Dinner:
Mon-Fri. 17:00〜20:00 (L.I. 19:00)
Sat, Sun, Holiday 16:00-20:00 (L.I. 19:00).

Usuki Fugu Yamadaya Nishi-Azabu

If you are feeling fancy and want to take the most from the tasting fugu fish experince, we recommend, that you go to “Usuki Fugu Yamadaya Nishi-Azabu”, which is a branch of an established fugu ryotei in Usuki, Oita Prefecture. It is a 2-Michelin star restaurant and one of the leading high-class fugu restaurants in Tokyo. On their menu among others, you will find thick-cut tsukuri, seasoned with ponzu of kabosu, and karaage seasoned with spices. 

Shop details:

4-11-14 Nishi-Azabu, Minato-ku, Tokyo FLEG Nishiazabu Vierge Basement A.

18: 00-24: 00 (LO22: 30).

If you decide to try the fugu fish, we hope you use one of our recommendations and of course that you like the taste!

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Books in foreign languages in Tokyo

Books in foreign languages in Tokyo

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Books in foreign languages in Tokyo

We live in a digital world, when it doesn’t matter where you are, you can find a book you need and get it on your device anytime. However, there are still these weird 🙂 people, who like the smell of paper and like to hold a real book in their hands. If you are one of them, this is a post for you. After reading it, you will know exactly where to find books in foreign languages in Tokyo.

Kinokuniya Shinjuku South:

There are two branches of Kinokuniya in Shinjuku. One close to Isetan, and another to Takashimaya. You are looking for the latter one. It has an impressive collection of books in English. All the bestsellers, fiction, non-fiction, and Japanese authors translated into English. Literally, anything you might want. They also have sales, so it is worth checking their Facebook page for more details. Besides the books in  English, they also carry books in German, French, and Spanish. 

Yaesu Book center:

Another shop offering a big variety of books in English is Yeasu Book Center which is located close to Tokyo Station. You can easily get here from any part of Tokyo and almost certainly you will find what you are looking for. The non-fiction section is especially large here. 

Maruzen Marunouchi Main Store:

Another store nearby the Tokyo Station is Maruzen Marunouchi. Also here you will find the latest publications from the English-speaking world, as well as some more rare ones. Plus, here you can find many books for kids and many magazines. 

Jimbocho:

Jimbocho is not a bookstore, it is a whole district in Tokyo known as “Book Town”. There are literally hundreds of bookshops in this area. Selling anything from the newest publications to the books from the Edo period. New books and second-hand shops, Japanese books and books in many many foreign languages. The shops you should check, are Ogawa Shoten, Nauka Japan (Russian), Tamura Bookstore (French, German).

Craigslist:

Aside from the physical shops, you can find books on Craigslist, too. The website is a huge advertising platform, where you can buy and sell anything, starting from small home appliances to houses and cars. Obviously, books are one of these categories, too. As most of the books are second-hand, the prices are cheaper than at the shop, and this is a huge bonus. 

Public Libraries:

Lastly, please do not neglect the city and the ward libraries. Even the smallest ones tend to have books in foreign languages. If you do not see it, just ask, and you will be surprised what gems you can find there. And the cherry on the top is that the public and municipal libraries are absolutely free. 

We hope this article will make your expat life a little bit easier.  If you have any other recommendations, please leave them in the comment section.

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Best spots to buy bread in Tokyo

Best spots to buy bread in Tokyo

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Best spots to buy bread in Tokyo

Many expats in Tokyo constantly complain that there is no decent bread in Tokyo. They claim that the only bread you can find here is a cheap fluffy sweet white bread from a convenience store. And this is the biggest lie! First of all, even this so-called 食パン (shokupan) is not bad at all, it is just different from the western types of bread. But besides that, there is plenty of bread options in Tokyo, from all over the world. In this article, you will find recommendations for the best spots to buy bread in Tokyo, where you can get French, Italian, Finnish, and other types of bread.

Viron

Viron is not the first but definitely one of the most famous and popular french boulangeries in Tokyo. This shop has two branches, one in Shibuya and one in Marunouchi. Freshly baked bread, sandwiches, and pastries make it place so popular, that to get there for the breakfast is almost “mission impossible” but totally worth it. Highly recommend trying this place.

Levain Bakery

Levain Bakery was one the first bakeries to use wild-yeast to make their bread. It is owned by a lovely couple who make their bread with healthy and organic ingredients on a site. Their bread is worth every yen you pay for it.

Vaner

Vaner is a craft bakery located in Yanaka. The owner learned the art of baking in Oslo, and now the shop focuses on Norwegian-style sourdough bread. Along with the bread, you can find here traditional sourdough cinnamon rolls, cardamon rolls, and croissants.

Linde Kichijōji

If you are looking for German-style bread, you have a few options. One of them is Linde. Here you can get multi-grain bread, pumpkin seed rustic loaf, pretzel, and more. The main branch is in Kichijoji, but you can find their bread also in the supermarkets such as Peacock and Precce across the city or just buy it online. 

Princi

Princi is an Italian bakery named after its founder Rocco Princi. The bakery has locations in several countries and Rocco controls the quality of his products himself by traveling between these countries. In Tokyo his bakeries located in Daikanyama, Nakameguro, and Ginza. The bread is super high quality and very tasty. While seasonal baked goods might be a bit pricey, the bread itself is more than affordable!

Ozo Bagel

If you like New York-style bagels, you are going to love Ozo Bagel. It is flavorful, and it has a great aroma and a great texture. It is big and very satisfactory. Along with the classics, a few original flavors and sandwiches are also available.

Poko Bagel Cafe

For those who prefer Montreal-style bagels, we have got you covered too. Poko bagel is located in Minato ward, not too far from the Tokyo Tower. It is a small cafe where you can get bagels, bagel sandwiches, cakes, and very tasty cornbread.  You can eat inside or buy and enjoy the treats at home.
 

Besides the specialty shops and bakeries, these days you can find foreigner-style bread even at the supermarkets. At Nissin and National Azabu, you will find Russian Borodinsky bread. At Gyomu super you will find Taiwanese bread, Indian bread, and other Asian dough products. Seijoishii and Kaldi sell European and Scandinavian bread. (More about these supermarkets, see in our other article.)

After reading this article you cannot complain that there is no good bread in Japan. There is actually too much of it. Now you need to find time to try them all.

P.S…

Fun Fact: You would probably expect that young people buy more bread here in Japan. But it is actually the opposite. The biggest consumers are people in their 70’s. That is because right after the war there was a shortage of rice, and Japan got a supply of wheat from the states. The kids were eating sandwiches at school as their lunch and got used to it (and now those kids are in their 70’s).

Fun Fact 2: People buy more bread in Kansai region. Tokyo is not even in the top 10 bread-consuming cities. Why? Firstly, because in the begging many foreigners were settling in Kobe and brought the bread culture there first. Secondly, because in Kanto it was common to cook rice at lunchtime and then to eat the leftovers in the mornings. While in Kansai, they used to cook the rice in the morning. Thus, instead of cooking rice, they adopted the culture of having bread for breakfast. 

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content DSC 3313

Best International Supermarkets in Tokyo

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International Supermarkets in Tokyo

It is undeniable that Japanese supermarkets look very good. They are very organized, selling many kinds of rice, many tasty-looking bento lunches, the freshest fish and seafood, and so much more. But sometimes you just crave something from your home, from your country. Sometimes you want to have something more familiar, or simply taste something else, rather than the sushi, soba, and katsu-sando. Therefore we prepared a list of the international supermarkets in Tokyo.

Nissin World Delicatessen

Nissin is a supermarket conveniently located in Minato ward, not too far from the Tokyo Tower. There are three floors. On the first one, you will find a flower shop. On the second a wine shop. And on the third floor a big international supermarket with products from all over the world. Many rare kinds of cheese, bread, pasta and cereal, sweets, and snacks. The prices are not always cheap, but they have sales and point cards, which can reduce the costs significantly. 

National Azabu

National Azabu in Hiroo is probably one of the most famous international shops in Tokyo. And for a good reason. On the first floor, they have many imported products, deli, etc. On the second floor, they have a small shop with stuff for party decorations, and also a big shop selling all you need for your kitchen and your home. The prices are on the expensive side, but this can be a nice treat from time to time.

Kaldi

Kaldi is a Japanese supermarket located in many central locations usually close to a station. This shop started as a coffee bean shop, but now you can find here many products imported from all over the world. They also sell many seasonal treats and many health products and superfood. Unlike some other shops, that specials in foreign products, Kaldi is relatively cheap. Even buying cheeses, meat, or healthy cereals will not leave you broken. 

Picard

Picard is a famous French shop selling frozen food. They have several locations in central Tokyo. Here you can find frozen vegetables, fruits; frozen pre-made dishes that you only need to drop into the oven or the microwave; french desserts, and more. Everything tastes pretty good and looks absolutely amazing as if it came from the hands of the best French chefs.

Costco

Costco is an American wholesale corporation, which operates a chain of membership-only warehouse clubs. They have a few locations in Japan as well. It is not always convenient to get there, but it is worth going if you need to buy big amounts of food for a reasonable price. Of course, you will find there many familiar, especially for the Americans, products. Big variety of meats, fruits, canned food, etc.

Gyomu super

We have mentioned Gyomu supermarket in one of our previous posts. And we will say it again, this supermarket is pretty good. At Gyomu supermarket you will find a big variety of imported products for a very good price. There are products from Europe, Asia, States, NZ, etc. So definitely check-out your closest Gyomu branch.

We hope we got you covered for those moments when you want to get something more western. Let us know what your favorite international supermarkets and places to shop in Tokyo and the surroundings.

 

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car and mt. fuji

Everything you should know about renting a car in Japan

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Everything you should know about renting a car in Japan

As long as you are staying in Tokyo you do not really need a car. That is because owning a car here is more expensive than a train fee. You will need to look for parking. You also might get into traffic jams. But sometimes having a car is convenient, especially when you decide to travel, as the bullet trains (shinkansen) are expensive and getting to and from the airport takes precious time. Moreover, public transportation in rural areas is much less frequent and convenient than in Tokyo. Thus, you might want to rent a car for such occasions. In this article, we bring to you everything you should know about renting a car in Japan.

Driving License:

First of all, in order to be able to drive a car in Japan, you must be at least 18 years old and have a special driving license. You need to get International Driving Permits (IDPs) issued by a signatory to the 1949 Geneva Convention, the only one which is recognized as valid for driving in Japan. An IDP on the other conventions or treaties, including the 1969 Vienna Convention, is invalid.

It is different for people with a driving license from the following countries: Switzerland, Germany, France, Belgium, Monaco, Estonia, and Taiwan. For more details please click here.

Remember that IDP is not a replacement for the driving license and is valid for 1 year only. Hence, if you are a foreigner staying in Japan long-term, you will need to acquire your own Japanese license. Details about the switching process you can find here.

Renting a car:

Renting a car in Japan is not so much different from the same process in other countries. It is highly recommended to book your car in advance. On the web you will be able to choose the days, starting and returning point, and a car type. You can also come directly to the agency on the same day you need a car, but in this case, you risk not getting the car you wanted.

Prices:

On average a price for a day should be around ¥10,000/day, depending on the type of car you choose and the distance. You can compare the prices on this website.

Insurance:

The basic compensation insurance is usually already included in the fee. However, you might want to confirm with the agency about any additional costs in case of an accident or emergency. Many of the agencies have safety plan that can be purchased as well.

Tips:

– There are many paid tolls. You should get yourself an ETC card, so you will be able to pay automatically instead of being constantly worried about the exact change. The card can be rented from the renting agencies for a symbolic payment.

– If you are going to Hokkaido or Kyushu, check their expressway passes (Hokkaido Express Pass and Kyushu Expressway Pass). Depending on your itinerary, trains might be more convenient and cheaper. 

– Make sure your car has a multilingual navigation system.

Please remember that renting a car can be a great option when traveling. But it all depends on where you go, how many people, etc. Some more popular destinations have good public transportation access to them and many discounted passes. If you are interested to save yourself some money, always check all these details before you go on your trip to Japan.

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St. Luke’s International Hospital

Good Foreigner-Friendly Hospitals and Clinics in Tokyo

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Foreigner-Friendly Hospitals and Clinics in Tokyo

Feeling unwell and falling ill is never a pleasant experience. But it becomes even more challenging when the language barrier prevents you from receiving proper treatment. The Japanese language can be complex, making communication difficult, especially in a hospital setting.

While Japan is often associated with limited English proficiency, Tokyo boasts a decent number of clinics equipped to assist English speakers.

Allow us to introduce you to some of the foreigner-friendly hospitals and clinics in Tokyo.

Centre Hospital of the National Center for Global Health and Medicine

Address: 162-8655, Tokyo, Shinjuku, Toyama 1-21-1.

Nearest station: Wakamatsu-Kawada Station.

TEL: +81-3-3202-7181

International University of Health and Welfare, Mita Hospital

Address: 1087-8329, Tokyo, Minato, Mita 1-4-3 Mita.

Nearest Station: Akabanebashi Station.

TEL +81-3-3451-8121

St. Luke’s International Hospital 

Address: 104-8560, Tokyo, Chuo, Akashicho 9-1.

Nearest station: Tsukiji Station.

TEL:  +81-3-5550-7166

Keio University Hospital

Address: 160-8582, Tokyo, Shinjuku, Shinanomachi.

Nearest station: Shinanomachi Station, Kokuritsu-Kuogijo Station.

TEL: +81-3-3353-1211

Tokyo Metropolitan Hiroo Hospital

Address: 150-0013, Tokyo, Shibuya, Ebisu 2-34-10.

Nearest station: Hiroo Station.

TEL: +81-3-3444-1181

We hope you won’t find yourself needing the information above too frequently, but your health should never be overlooked.

For emergencies and routine check-ups alike, rest assured that there are options available even if you’re not fluent in Japanese.

Here’s an important tip: When seeking medical care, be mindful of how you communicate your needs. If you simply state that you want a periodic check-up because you’re feeling fine, your insurance might not cover the visit, leaving you to foot the entire bill. Instead, it’s advisable to mention specific health concerns or follow-ups on previous appointments to ensure insurance coverage. And always verify that the services you’re seeking are covered by your health insurance to avoid unexpected costs.

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Hotel Gajoen

Cherry blossom-themed afternoon tea sets

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Cherry blossom-themed afternoon tea sets

If you live in Japan long enough you know that it is all about seasonal products and food. In spring before and during the cherry blossom season, many cafes and restaurants offer Sakura-themed menus. In this article, we want to introduce you to some of the cherry blossom-themed afternoon tea sets.

The Strings Omotesando

Regular price: ¥6,152

Ozmall discounted price: ¥3,980

Zelkova A at the Strings Omotesando is a chic café where from your seat on their terrace you can enjoy the fashionable and vibrant Omotesando street.  Every season they change their afternoon tea menu. This spring they offer Sakura and strawberry flavored desserts. You can enjoy those along with a free flow of the TWG tea and coffee, as well as one complimentary glass of sparkling wine.

The deal is available for groups of 2-6 persons until April 25.

Rhythmos Cafe and Bar

Regular price: ¥8,602

Ozmall discounted price: ¥5,000

Rhythmos is located on the 26th floor of Intercontinental Strings hotel in Shinagawa. It is a beautiful stylish bar that is now offering Sakura, cherry, and strawberry desserts afternoon tea. Here you can also enjoy the free refills of tea, coffee, juices, and even one non-alcoholic seasonal cocktail. In many places, the afternoon tea sets are available for 2 people or more, but here you can enjoy a relaxed afternoon even alone. Unbeatable offer indeed!

The deal is available for groups of 1-8 persons until April 30.

Crystal Movement Lobby Lounge

Regular price: ¥3,960

Crystal Movements is a European-style lounge at the Tobu Hotel nearby Kinshicho station. For slightly less than ¥4,00o you can get a beautiful set of sweets and sandwiches, free refills on the drinks, a cocktail (mocktails are available too) for as long as 3 hours!! Great opportunity to catch up with the dearest friends.

The deal is available for groups of 2-4 persons until April 30.

St. Raphael Chapel Ginza

 Regular price: ¥4,500

A wedding venue that was open in June 2020 is now offering a pink-themed afternoon tea set. The sweets include all the flavors from sakura, to raspberry, to ruby chocolate. The savory food is very unique too. Additionally to the standard set, you will get Chef’s LIVE dessert plate. One welcoming drink and free flow of more than 10 kinds of teas will be available for you for 2 hours. And they are offering this deal to those who want to come alone or as many as 15 other people. Definitely check this one out!

The deal is available for groups of 1-16 persons until March 31 on the weekends and national holidays.

Hotel Gajoen Tokyo

Regular price: ¥4,400 (service fee is not included).

Hotel Gajoen is offering a special spring afternoon tea set. The flavors include Sakura, matcha, chocolate, strawberry, cherry, and even sweet bean paste. The savory part includes salmon and a cold matcha soup. All the desserts are accompanied by seasonal tea and coffee refills.

Hotel Gajoen located in Meguro, which puts it within a short walking distance to probably one of the most famous cherry blossoms viewing spots – Meguro river. However, it must be said, this place itself is absolutely amazing. Definitely see it all.

The deal is available from March 20 until April 11.

Le Jardin Lobby Lounge

Regular price: ¥4,950 (consumption tax included, the service fee is not included).

Le Jardin is located in Chinzanso Hotel, which is one of the oldest hotels in Tokyo. It has an absolutely stunning park next to it and it is an absolute must-visit. Make this visit even more memorable with an amazing afternoon tea set which will be offered there during March and April.

High-end western and Japanese desserts, a light meal, and a free flow of tea on coffee will be served from 12 PM until 6 PM.

The deal is available from March 18 until April 11. A reservation only, at least one day before.

 

Make this year’s cherry season memorable for your eyes and for your stomach. Definitely use the available discounts to enjoy some more unique spaces and food.

St. Raphael Chapel GinzaLe Jardin Zelkova A

              

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TOKYO FURNISHED

We have been serving the expatriate community in Japan for the past decade and a half. We are a boutique real estate company providing accommodation solutions to private individuals and company personnel who are relocating to the central Tokyo area.

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