Welcome to the ultimate summer getaway in Japan, a land of captivating beauty and diverse landscapes. As the season transitions to summer, it’s the ideal time to embark on a memorable getaway and explore the best that Japan has to offer. Whether you prefer the vibrant energy of bustling cities or the tranquil charm of the countryside, Japan presents a myriad of options to create an unforgettable summer vacation experience.

Yakushima (Kagoshima Prefecture)

Discover Yakushima, a UNESCO World Heritage site for nature enthusiasts. Immerse yourself in ancient cedar forests, abundant wildlife, and serene trails. Marvel at the Jomon Sugi cedar tree, hike moss-covered paths, and refresh in pristine waterfalls. It’s a nature-centric summer getaway you won’t forget.

Miyajima (Hiroshima Prefecture)

Located near Hiroshima, Miyajima entices with its iconic floating torii gate and serene atmosphere. Explore scenic hikes, ancient temples, and savor local delicacies. Take a dip in the sea, immerse in soothing waters, and witness magical sunset views over the Seto Inland Sea. Indulge in Miyajima’s tranquility and enchanting beauty.

Kochi (Kochi Prefecture)

When in Kochi, immerse in history at Kochi Castle, discover the vibrant Sunday Market, and admire the picturesque coastline. Explore the atmospheric streets of the old town, indulge in fresh seafood at Hirome Market, and embark on a scenic coastal drive. Don’t miss Cape Ashizuri for breathtaking ocean views.

Iya Valley (Tokushima Prefecture)

Discover the enchanting beauty of Iya Valley, a remote and picturesque region surrounded by lush mountains and deep valleys. Explore the historic vine bridges (kazurabashi) suspended over the Iya River, visit the ancient thatched-roof village of Ochiai, and enjoy hiking, rafting, and hot spring baths in the serene natural surroundings.

Lake Toya (Hokkaido)

Relax and unwind at Lake Toya, a caldera lake surrounded by lush mountains. Enjoy water activities such as boating and kayaking, take a scenic ropeway ride to the top of Mount Usu for panoramic views, and soak in the rejuvenating hot springs at one of the lakeside resorts.

Furano and Biei (Hokkaido)

Experience the breathtaking beauty of Furano and Biei, known for their colorful flower fields and picturesque landscapes. Visit the lavender fields in Farm Tomita, stroll through the Patchwork Road with its rolling hills and vibrant flower gardens, and capture stunning photos at the Blue Pond.

Zamami Island (Okinawa)

Escape the crowds and experience tranquility on Zamami Island, part of the Kerama Islands. Relax on the pristine beaches, go snorkeling or diving to encounter sea turtles and colorful fish, and hike to the scenic viewpoints for panoramic vistas of the island’s beauty.

Best things to do in Japan during winter

Here are our top 4 fun things to do on Golden Week.

Tokyo Tower 333 Carp Streamers

For the Children’s Day celebrated on May 5, Tokyo Tower will be decorated with 333 carp-shaped windsock streamers of different sizes and colors, plus one bonus fish – a giant Pacific saury. The number 333 comes from the height of Tokyo Tower which is 333 meters tall.

Niku Fes

A large meat festival will be held in Komazawa Park during this Golden Week. Maet dishes of all kinds and genres will be featured. Even if you do not eat meat, you can try some of their plant-based meat options or desserts!

Nemophila Harmony

A famous Hitachi Seaside Park in Ibaraki will be in full bloom during the first half of May. Do not miss your chance to enjoy this truly stunning park.

A day trip

Golden Week is also a great chance to take your time and go on a trip. Even if you did not plan anything in advance, you still can make a day trip to Kamakura, Hayama, Zushi, Yokohama, or Hakone. Enjoy the beautiful nature and delicious food. You can file plenty of it in these places.

What are your plans for this GW? Leave a comment and let us know.

9 Beautiful Parks in Tokyo

Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden

Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden is one of the biggest and most famous parks in Tokyo. Here you will find a big variety of trees and plants. It is home to over 1000 sakura trees of different kinds, which makes the blooming season quite long. It is also a stunning place during the foliage season. Plus it has spacious lawns and during the warm season, you can have a picnic right here in the park.

Admission: 500 yen for adult

Hours: 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. (5:30 p.m. on Mondays)

Location: 11 Naitomachi, Shinjuku

Yoyogi Park

Just like Shinjuku Gyoen, Yoyogi Park is also one of the largest and best well-known green spaces in Tokyo. The park is famous because of the Ginko trees and the best time to enjoy them is in autumn. Another reason you might want to visit this park is that it is conveniently located just between Harajuku station and Meiji Jingu (one of the most important shrines in Tokyo).

Admission: free

Hours: always open

Location: 2-1 Yoyogikamizonocho, Shibuya

Inokashira Park

Inokashira Park is known for being a green escape with lots of facilities and activities available in the Kichijori area, in Western Tokyo. It is famous for the beautiful sakura trees surrounding the park’s pond. You can rent a boat and enjoy the view from the water. There is also a zoo and a shrine that you can visit. Or you can come here after your visit to Ghibli Museum.

Admission: free

Hours: always open

Location: 1-18-31 Gotenyama, Musashino

Hamarikyu Gardens

Hamarikyu Gardens is a gorgeous green space located in central Tokyo and within a walking distance from Tokyo Tower. It is the only park in Tokyo where you can find a tidal pond. Also, it is an important place for the Japanese culture and heritage, as in the past it was used as a Daimyo (feudal lord) garden. When visiting this park, make sure to visit a traditional tea house for a cup of matcha and Japanese confectionery.

Admission: 300 yen for adult

Hours: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Location: 1-1 Hama Rikyu-teien, Chuo

Kinuta Park

Kinuta Park is another park famous for its cherry blossom. But you can enjoy it all year round as it is a specious green space where you can play with your kids or have a picnic with your friends. To enjoy your picnic even more, before coming to the park grab some delicious sandwiches and pastries from a popular Regina bakery. The park is a little far from central Tokyo, which means that it is less crowded, and mainly locals come here as suppose to Yoyogi Park or Shinjuku Gyoen.

Admission: free

Hours: always open

Location: 1-1 Kinutakoen, Setagaya

Setagaya Park

This is another park in Setagaya ward popular among the locals. It has many elements of a traditional Japanese garden and is also a good place for various activities. Kids enjoy it because here they have a kids’ playground, a pool (open only in summer), and a miniature train that runs around the park. Adults love this place too as it is a great place for sports, picnics, or even barbeque.

Admission: free

Hours: always open

Location: 1-5-27, Ikejiri, Setagaya

Komazawa Olympic Park

Komazawa Olympic Park became famous after the Olympics of 1964 when it was used as a second Olympic stadium. Until this day it is known as a sports park with lots of greenery. You should visit it if you are looking for children’s fields, jogging or cycling courses, or even a dog run. On the weekends the park becomes especially lively with visitors from all parts of Tokyo. On the weekdays it is much quieter and more relaxed.

Admission: free

Hours: always open

Location: 1-1 Komazawakoen, Setagaya

Kasai Rinkai Park

Kasai Rinkai Park is located in Edogawa ward across the river from Tokyo Disney Resort and it is the biggest park in central Tokyo. Visiting this park is one of the best things you can do on a hot summer day. On a bright day, it offers beautiful views of Tokyo Bay and Mt. Fuji. This park is home not only to many lawns, gardens, and beaches but also to a Ferris Wheel, an aquarium, a seabird sanctuary, and an observation building.

Admission: free

Hours: always open

Location: 6-2 Rinkaicho, Edogawa

Kyodonomori

Kyodonomori is a park and an open-air museum in Fuchu featuring building from different eras throughout Japanese history. The park is especially recommended for a visit in February and March when it holds its annual Plum Festival, as it includes Tokyo’s largest plum orchard.

Admission: 300 yen

Hours: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. (Closed on Mondays)

Location: 6-32 Minamicho, Fuchu

Sports Centers in Tokyo

Your Best Guide to Musashi-Koyama and Togoshi Ginza

Tokyo is a great city with so much going on. In this post, we will talk about 8 reasons why to live in Tokyo.

Tokyo is never boring

There are so many things you can do in Tokyo. You can visit museums. Or you can go to one of the many themed cafes. Or you can enjoy the greenery at one of the parks. It will take years if not decades to explore everything Tokyo has to offer.

Tokyo has a fascinating history

Tokyo might only look like a modern concrete jungle. In reality, it is an old city with a long history and rich culture. There are many historical neighborhoods from different eras. And almost every week there are various festivals happening. Even you yourself can participate in different workshops featuring Japanese culture: trying on kimonos, tea ceremonies, making bonsai, etc.

Tokyo has the best food scene in the world

Many know that Tokyo is the capital of Michlen-starred restaurants. Though, even if you don’t want to spend a fortune on one meal, you can still enjoy delicious and high-quality food. You can get a lunch box for as cheap as 500 yen, and it will be fresh and nutritious. Also, there are many unique dishes in Japanese cuisine besides sushi. You will be always able to try something new.

Tokyo is relatively cheap

Although Tokyo has many attractions, you won’t need to break the bank to enjoy them. Of course, there is no limit to how much you can spend here. But if you choose to be moderate with your expenses, you can totally do it. Local food, restaurants, and some of the attractions are not as expensive as some people might think.

Tokyo is safe

Every year Tokyo is ranked high on the world safety rankings. Even if you are a young woman, you can still feel very safe in Tokyo and live or travel here alone. The city is also safe for kids, who go to school by themselves starting from a very young age.

Tokyo is clean

Despite the huge number of people everywhere and the almost complete lack of trash cans, Tokyo can be considered a clean city. Almost no one will leave their garbage on the streets. Plus you can wear white pants and sit anywhere without being worried about getting dirty. People never sit with their shoes on benches or other sitting spots unlike in many other countries.

Tokyo has the world’s best transportation system

If you do not own a car or don’t want to drive a car, Tokyo is the place for you. Transportation here is amazing, almost always on time, and can bring you to any part of the city. Some will say it is complicated. However, if you take a minute and read the signs (all in English as well), you will understand that it is pretty easy, even intuitive.

Tokyo has lots of nature

Another misconception about Tokyo is that it has only skyscrapers and trains. However, in reality, there are many parks, even in central Tokyo. Moreover, Tokyo is close to the sea and beaches as well. Hiking routes are available, animal farms can be found, and so much more.

Other posts about life in Tokyo:

Public Transit

Things to Know about Rent Prices in Tokyo

The culture of souvenirs is extremely developed in Japan. However, probably unlike in other countries, in Japan when you say souvenirs you basically refer to a tasty treat. Pretty much every region in Japan has its unique souvenirs that cannot be found anywhere else. Here is the list of the 5 best edible souvenirs from Tokyo you can bring to your friends and family back home.

Tokyo Banana

First released in 1991, Tokyo Banana became one of the most popular souvenirs you can bring from Tokyo. It is a small sponge cake with a custard filling inside shaped like a banana, hence the name. Filling flavors and cake decor change with the seasons, so you will never run out of options. You can find shops selling Tokyo Banana all around the city and at the airports.

Omochi Club Create

Mochi is a rice cake and a traditional Japanese dessert. You can see it all across Japan. But only in Tokyo, you can get an especially unique and cool one. It was created by Omochi Club Create and it is shaped like a popsicle. You will love the adorable look of it. Although you can buy them online, for a fun experience visit their original store nearby Nishiogikubo station.

Anko Butter Financier

Anko is a sweet red bean paste. Recently anko with butter on toast became one of the staple breakfasts and snacks among Japanese women. When it comes to souvenirs, you can buy them in a version of the financier from a popular Okada Anbataya pastry shop.

Cat-Shaped Monaka

As you might know, monaka is another traditional Japanese dessert made with crispy wafers and filled with beans. Yet the cat-shaped monaka filled with a paste made of white beans you can buy only in Tokyo. Aside from being a very cute-looking “cookie sandwich”, it can also be a good introduction to the culture of using beans in sweets.

Umeboshi assortment

Lastly, if you are looking for a bit fancier souvenir, go for the umeboshi from the Palace Hotel Tokyo. Umeboshi is a Japanese pickled plum, which is used in various savory and sweet dishes. At the Palace Hotel, you can buy a set of two types of umeboshi that are beautifully arranged in a wooden box. Sweet plum is made with honey and the sour pickled ume is made with shiso. They are individually wrapped and have a long shelf life, making them ideal souvenirs.

For more food-related posts, visit:

Japanese Food You Need to Try in Winter

Best American Restaurants in Tokyo

In Tokyo, you will be able to find many sports centers and gyms. Some of them are open 24/7, some are not. Some are cheap, some are more expensive. Here are some examples.

Tokyo Metropolitan Gymnasium

It is one of the biggest sports centers in Tokyo today. The facilities include a swimming pool, gym, athletic field, and more. If you do not have a membership, you can pay per use. It is 600 yen for 2.5 hours with an option for an extension for a reduced price. You do not need a reservation to use a pool or gym, but for more info about the use of their other facilities, please use their website. Another great point about this place is that is foreign-friendly and even big tattoos are allowed and do not need to be covered.

Komazawa Olympic Park

Komazawa Olympic Park is another famous sports venue. Here the main focus is on outdoor sports, however, a gym for the general public is also available. For just 450 yen you will get full access to it for the whole 2 hours.

Shinjuku Cosmic Sports Center

It is a conveniently located medium size sports center where you can use a pool, martial arts hall, space for private classes such as dances, and more. Anyone can use its facilities, meaning you do not have to be a Shinjuku resident. Using the pool will cost you 400 yen and give you 2 hours of use during the peak periods (school vacations) or no limit during the less busy seasons.

Tokyo Tatsumi International Swimming Center

Tokyo Tatsumi is a swimming center that hosted many big sports events, even the Olympic events from Tokyo 2020. Here you will find two pools, as well as a gym. If you use it as an individual, you can pay 600 yen per use and there is no even time limit. However, if you come as a group, reservations might be required. Please check their website for more details.

Musashino Forest Sport Plaza

If you live in the Tama area, there is no need to cross the city to get to a gym or a pool. In Musashino there is another sports plaza. Here you can find 2 pools, a gym, and many other facilities. Many sports events take place at this location but it is also open to the public. For just 500 yen you can get 3-hour access to the pool and the gym.

Tokyo Tama Sports Center for Persons with Disabilities

This center promotes sports among people with disabilities, as well as holds sports events, especially for those people. Here people who have any kind of disabilities can be assisted and get special training just for them. Pool, gym, tennis court, etc are available for use. On their website, your can also make reservations for group classes.

Anytime Fitness and Gold’s Gym

Another type of gym is a chain gym that has multiple locations around the city and even the country. Anytime Fitness is one of them. It allows you to use its facilities any time of the day or night. If you have a membership to this gym from another country, it will be valid in Japan as well. However, those who have tattoos must cover them completely. Gold’s Gym is a popular gum for people who are already more advanced in sports and know what they are doing. Branches of Gold’s gym you will find in many central locations are popular among foreigners.

School Gyms and Pools

Another place to check is your local public elementary school. Many of them have pools, soccer fields, tennis fields, etc. Most days it is open only for the students, but on the weekend anyone can use them. Usually, it costs 400 yen for 2 hours and sometimes there is no limitation on how long you can use the facility. With that being said, since it is open mainly on the weekends, it gets pretty crowded. To find such a place just google it or check at your local city hall.

Let us know what sports facilities you prefer to use. Also, make sure to check some of our other articles about life in Tokyo:

101 Guide to Riding a Bicycle in Tokyo

6 Tattoo-friendly Onsens in Tokyo Area

There is no doubt about the quality and variety of Japanese and international food available in Tokyo. Today on our radar is American cuisine. In Tokyo, you will be able to find all the American classics, such as bagels, pizza, BBQ, and even southern soul food.

New New York Club

What would be the most classic way to kick off a new day if you are from the US or specifically from NYC? Of course, this is a bagel sandwich! Sweet or savory, toasted or not, it’s up to you. But the place where you can get some of the best bagels it is a small shop in Azabujuban called “New New York Club”. The bagels here come in all classical flavors, plain, sesame, everything bagel, and more. However, if you come here on the weekends you will find also unicorn and rainbow bagels. You can choose something from their menu or creat your own sandwich. The toppings include a classical LOX, PBJ, and so many other options. Apart from the bagels, they sell here some other goodies as well: chocolate chip cookies and black and white cookies, and even some vegan cakes!

Lucy’s Bakery

Lucy’s Bakery is one of a few American-style bakeries in the Tokyo area. They have a great selection of cakes and cookies. The size is also American, in other words, it is on the bigger side. On the regular menu, you will find classics such as cheesecake, pecan pie, and cherry pie. But they also have seasonal offers, that change every month. If you need a cake for a celebration, customized decorated cakes are also available for a pre-order.

Hudson Market Bakers

Another bakery you should check out if you like American baked goods is Hudson Market Bakers in Azabujuban. Plenty of freshly baked round cakes, pound cakes, and cookies. Also, they have the best cornbread in all of Tokyo and even better than in many places in the States.

Smokehouse

There is no a better place to get a BBQ plate than Smokehouse nearby Omotesando. Here you can choose your meats, you can choose your sides, and just enjoy a super tasty meal. It fills amazingly authentic. Also, most of the customers are foreign, so eben the atmosphere is not very Japanese. But not only meat lovers will love this place, vegetarians can enjoy a vegan burger or appetizers, or desserts.

Soul Food House

This is one of a few if not the only place in Tokyo serving authentic American Southern food. Here you will find the classic chicken and waffle combo, but also many other waffle combinations. Even vegetarian and vegan options! Also on the menu, mac and cheese, wraps, cakes, such as carrot cake or brownie, and more. Come on Wednesday and enjoy the chicken waffle for just 1,000 yen!

The Pizza Tokyo Hiroo

Every article about American food should include places that sell a New York-style pizza. In Tokyo, you can find this perfect slice in Hiroo and Shimokitazawa. Pizza Tokyo sells its pizzas by slice and they have all the classics, such as cheese slices, Margharita, and pepperoni. Of course, they also serve side dishes, soups, and drinks. No doubt it all will make you feel as if you were transferred from Tokyo to somewhere in Brooklyn.

These are only some of our top picks. You might want also to check Down Home Restaurant, Brooklyn Roasting, Devil Craft, Freeman Shokudo, Bubby’s, Hard Rock Cafe, etc. Hope this post will help you feel less homesick. Or if you are not from the States, that you will have a chance to try yorself what the American flavors are like.

6 New Openings in Minato

Japanese Food You Need to Try in Winter

2022 was very fruitful for the new openings. So if you are tired of going to the same cafes, here are some new locations for you to visit.

Uni Coffee Roastery Premium Azabujuban

Uni Coffee Roastery is a Yokohama-born shop, which opened its first store in Tokyo this November. The concept of the Azabu location is a bit unique as it targets mainly adults. You can understand it from the shop’s interior and also the food menu. The cheese-based menu includes homemade gorgonzola cheesecake, mascarpone canele, high tea sets offered in the evenings, and more. It should be a perfect spot for a date.

Beyond the Box Tokyo

Beyond the Box is a sister shop of a popular coffee shop Lit Coffee and Tea Stand and one of the recent additions to the gourmet scene of Minato. However, it is not new to Tokyo. Before moving to Shiba area, the same cafe under a different name was operating in Shimokitazawa for 17 years! So you can be sure the quality is there, but now it comes with a more modern atmosphere and even more delicious dishes.

Common Tokyo

In late May a new cafe, bar, and lounge space opened in Roppongi. As the name suggests, the idea is to turn it into a community space of Roppongi. During the day you will find here a stylish and modern yet cozy cafe, art exhibitions, and pop-up shops. During the evenings, the cafe turns into a bar with a DJ guest every Thursday. This is a place to go to if you want to get some work done, meet a friend for a coffee, or even for a date at night.

Hiff Cafe Shibakoen

One of the newest additions to the Minato scene is this coffee shop in Shibakoen. Here you will find all kinds of espresso-based drinks as well as some teas and ades. As for the food menu, at the moment they offer only pound cakes but more to come. What’s great about this new shop is that it provides WIFI and outlets, and you can come here with your pet. All this makes it a nice stop not too far from Tokyo Tower.

Ken’s Cafe Tokyo Tower

Gateau Chocolate “Ken’s Cafe”, which was named the best cake in Japan, opened its new branch in Tokyo Tower. The main target will be the tourists, but of course, anyone can enjoy these delicious cakes. Also, this is the only branch where they are going to offer drinks as well. It is a must-visit for every chocolate lover. But even if you are not a huge fan of chocolate, you can get their new addition to the line-up, a cheesecake.

Harry Potter Cafe

Until the “Making Harry Potter Tour” opens sometime in 2023, already since the summer of 2022 you can enjoy the Harry Potter cafe in Akasaka. The cafe has a very nice design and a themed menu. They have all kinds of food, starting from lite meals to desserts and afternoon tea plans. At the moment reservations are quired and you can easily make them here. Next to the cafe, you will also find a Harry Potter shop. Same here, you need to make a reservation to get in. Lastly, make sure you get to the Akasaka station which also has themed decorations.

Things to do on a New Year in Tokyo