japan
travel guide
JAPAN
An enchanting archipelago in East Asia that seamlessly weaves together centuries-old traditions and cutting-edge innovations. Renowned for its captivating blend of ancient temples, tranquil gardens, bustling metropolis, and a deep-rooted reverence for nature, which is reflected in its stunning landscapes.
tokyo
A vibrant metropolis that seamlessly blends tradition with modernity. Known for its futuristic skyline, cutting-edge technology, and efficient public transportation system, Tokyo is a city where ancient temples and shrines coexist alongside towering skyscrapers and neon-lit streets.
A city that never fails to enchant and inspire with its rich heritage, innovation, and boundless energy.
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HOSHINOYA Tokyo — Exceptional hotel located in walking distance to Tokyo Station. Traditional ryokan mets upscale hotel.
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Yoyogi Park — A harmonious blend of lush greenery, recreational spaces & cultural attractions. It’s also a great place to view the Cherry Blossoms when they are in season.
Culinary Backstreets Food Tour — If you are a food lover I highly recommend a local food tour. It’s the best way to get to know a country, the people and their cuisine. You will be taken behind the scenes with a local guide where you can sample the delicacies and unique foods to that area.
Sake Tasting — A unique opportunity to explore the rich and diverse world of traditional Japanese rice wine. Savor its delicate flavors and experiencing the country's rich brewing heritage. You will find many places throughout Japan to have a tasting.
Shops + Art
Marunouchi Naka-dori Ave — Adorable tree lined street with shops + eateries
Kappabashi Street — Famous for kitchenware & knives
Cat Street — Connects Shibuya to Harajuku, cute shops & eateries
Omotesando — Luxury high-end shops
Ginza — Lots of big named stores and boutique shops
Itoya Ginza — 8 amazing floors of stationary & paper goods
Spiral Market — Beautifully designed department store
Kinto Ceramics — Hand crafted, locally made pottery
Museums
Watarium — A contemporary art museum known for its innovative and eclectic exhibitions, showcasing a wide range of contemporary artworks across various mediums.
21_21 Design Site — Celebrates the power of design, offering thought-provoking exhibitions and immersive experiences that inspire creativity, innovation, and critical thinking.
The Ad Museum — Wonderful! Dedicated to the promotion of studies in, and popular understanding of, advertising and marketing.
MORI Building Digital Art Museum — An immersive and interactive digital art museum offering a unique fusion of art, technology, and imagination transcending traditional boundaries.
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Aoyama Flower Market Tea House — Lovely tea house nestled in a greenhouse-style storefront.
SG Club — A multi-floor bar with slightly different drinking experiences offered on each. Check out all three!
Kinka Sushi — Great sushi bar and Izakaya.
Narisawa — Fantastic! A gastronomic dining experience highlighting the best of nature from the land to the sea
Little Nap Coffee Stand — Local coffee roasters located near Yoyogi Park.
Ralphs — A Ralph Lauren Café designed to perfection.
Tokyu Food Show — A renowned gourmet food market located in the basement of the Tokyu Department Store in Shibuya
Sincere Garden Spa & Café — The bottom floor is a Spa & Natural beauty store with the best casual foot/head massages. Upstairs is an adorable café.
Sushi Yuu — Tiny but wonderful! Daisuki, the owner, treats you like family and presents an exqusite sushi expereince. (Make reservations through Facebook).
AOBAYA — Good for a quick lunch. Great poké bowls.
Bar High Five — Listed as one of the best bars in the world.
Harrit’s Donuts — YUM. Go very early!
kyoto
A city that exudes elegance, tradition, and spiritual serenity. Nestled among picturesque mountains, Kyoto is renowned for its well-preserved historic architecture, tranquil gardens, and countless temples and shrines.
Kyoto's timeless beauty and reverence for tradition make it a captivating destination that captivates the hearts of travelers from around the world.
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Hotel Kanra Kyoto — Embracing “The spirit of the Kyoto” and the modern "Machiya Style" featuring natural materials using traditional Japanese techniques.
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Maruyama Park — A serene and picturesque urban oasis renowned for its enchanting cherry blossoms and tranquil atmosphere.
Gion District — A captivating and historic neighborhood known for its preserved traditional architecture, geisha culture, and charming tea houses.
Kiyomizu-dera Temple — A majestic and iconic Buddhist temple famous for its stunning wooden architecture, panoramic views of the city, and sacred Otawa Waterfall.
Tea Ceremony — A meticulously choreographed ritual that embodies harmony, respect, and tranquility, where powdered green tea is prepared and served with precise movements and graceful gestures.
Nishiki Market — A culinary paradise where you can explore a narrow street lined with stalls offering an array of fresh seafood, local delicacies, and traditional ingredients.
Arashiyama Bamboo Forest — A natural wonder where towering bamboo stalks create a serene and ethereal atmosphere, enveloping you in a mesmerizing green oasis.
Fushimi Inari — A striking Shinto shrine distinguished by its iconic pathway of thousands of vibrant red torii gates, leading you through a mystical and spiritual journey.
Toji Bhuddist Temple — A magnificent temple renowned for its towering pagoda, exquisite Buddhist statues, and tranquil gardens, offering a serene escape in the heart of the city.
Philosopher’s Path — A contemplative walking trail adorned with cherry trees that bloom in vibrant colors during spring, creating a serene and inspiring atmosphere for reflection and introspection.
Utsuwa Montosuki Ceramics — Located along The Philosopher’s Path is an Artists Container Shop, where you can create your own ceramic using a potters wheel.
Kyoto Station — Not just a train station! It’s a large complex consisting of plazas and corridors that connects Kyoto Station, hotels, specialty stores and restaurants and theaters. From the 4th-11th floors, you will find a grand staircase, aerial path and the Ozora Square offer a panoramic view of Kyoto.
BAL Store — An elegant, contemporary shopping mall offering upscale stores, cafes & restaurants.
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Yoshimura Kiyomizu — Sit on the beautiful terrace and be treated to authentic handmade soba noodles.
Weekender’s Coffee — A sweet coffee shop tucked away. Be sure to grab a donut with your coffee while you sit, sip & savor.
Koe Donuts — A hands-on donut factory where you can enjoy freshly made organic donuts with a knife and fork.
7-11 — A surprisingly delightful experience, with a wide selection of fresh and delicious ready-to-eat meals, including bento boxes, onigiri, sandwiches, and various snacks, showcasing the convenience and quality of Japanese convenience store cuisine
Vermilion Cafe — An espresso bar & cafe located in Fushimi Inari. It is named after the vivid, iconic color of the famous torii gates — Vermillion.
Monk — Located just along the philosophers path, Monk offers seasonal ingredients from local farmer’s market. Simple food prepared by the primitive way of cooking around live fire.
Walden Woods Coffee — A small roaster featuring carefully selected single-origin coffee using the vintage Purobatto made in 1960s — making their coffee unique and delicious!
An open-air museum where ancient traditions and modernity blend harmoniously to create a truly enchanting and timeless experience.
osaka
A vibrant and dynamic city renowned for its friendly locals and energetic atmosphere, Osaka is often referred to as the “nation's kitchen” due to its diverse and delicious culinary offerings.
With its warm hospitality, vibrant street culture, and a unique blend of tradition and modernity, Osaka offers an unforgettable and lively experience for travelers seeking a taste of the lively spirit of Japan.
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Conrad Osaka — An exquisite luxury hotel offering unparalleled elegance, breathtaking city views, and impeccable service, providing guests with a truly unforgettable stay.
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Osaka Castle — A majestic landmark characterized by its grand architecture, beautiful gardens, and rich cultural heritage, offering visitors a glimpse into Japan's feudal history.
Nakanoshima Rose Garden — A serene garden adorned with a splendid collection of vibrant roses, where you can immerse yourself in the beauty and fragrant atmosphere of this picturesque floral paradise.
Shitennoji Temple & Gardens — An ancient Buddhist temple known for its architectural beauty, tranquil surroundings, and spiritual significance, offering a place of contemplation and cultural exploration.
Hozenji Yokocho — A charming and nostalgic alleyway lined with traditional izakayas and small shops, exuding a quaint and old-world ambiance that transports visitors back in time.
Biotop — A unique store with the idea that space can maintain the original ecosystem (including humans), designing and selling everything one would need such as natural cosmetics, plants, and other goods. There is also a hand drip coffee stand and a restaurant surrounded by greenery where you can order New York-style pizza.
Utsubo Park — A sprawling and tranquil urban park with picturesque gardens, open lawns, and a peaceful pond, providing a serene retreat for relaxation.
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&Island — A great spot for lunch or a date night. Enjoy the terrace for great views along the Tosabori River.
Dean&Deluca — A gourmet food market & café, offering a luxurious selection of international delicacies, artisanal products, and a sophisticated ambiance that delights culinary enthusiasts. We ate here several times. The pistachio matcha latte was amazing!
Micasadeco Café — Adorable interior and wonderful place to sample the famous Japanese “fluffy pancake.”
Bar Elixir K — Cool spot with interesting cocktails
Okonomiyaki Sakura — A must! Small family run place with the best Okonomiyaki. The chef writes hand written notes to all his guests.
hakone
A captivating destination that offers a tranquil escape from the bustling city life. Famous for its breathtaking views of Mount Fuji, natural hot springs (onsen), and picturesque landscapes, Hakone offers a delightful respite for those seeking a peaceful retreat.
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Kinnotake Tonosawa — A hidden gem! Relax at this traditional ryokan where you can cross the suspension bridge over the valley and let the sounds of nature wash away the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Let the forest surround you and gently fill your five senses with a relaxing time.
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Lake Ashi — A serene and scenic crater lake, offering breathtaking views of Mount Fuji and serving as a popular destination for sightseeing and boat cruises.
Open Air Museum — An innovative outdoor art museum, showcasing a diverse collection of contemporary sculptures and installations set against the stunning backdrop of the surrounding mountains, providing a unique and immersive artistic experience.
Picasso Pavilion — Located on the Open Air Museum grounds, don’t miss this collection of works by Pablo Picasso.
Onsen & Moon Spa — Take advantage of the lovely outdoor onsen just outside your door bringing in fresh water from the local hot spring. There is also a Moon Spa where you can enjoy a variety of relaxing treatments.
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Watanabe Bakery — Wonderful local bakery preparing fresh bread and pastries everyday. Yum!
Kinnotake Tonosawa — Enjoy a fantastic Kaiseki dinner, a fusion of traditional Japanese cuisine & contemporary tastes, highlighting the four seasons.
nature's masterpiece, a tranquil sanctuary where hot springs, misty mountains, and picturesque lakes conspire to create a haven of relaxation and inspiration
day trips
The well organized high speed rail and local bus routes allow for numerous day trip opportunities.
Visit the captivating and unique art island of Naoshima, nestled in the Seto Inland Sea, renowned for its seamless fusion of contemporary art and stunning natural beauty. Or head to Nara Park, a historical and enchanting destination renowned for its abundant deer population, ancient temples, and picturesque landscapes.
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Serving as a haven for art enthusiasts and nature lovers alike, Naoshima boasts an impressive collection of modern art installations, sculptures, and museums that harmoniously blend with the island's serene landscape. You can easily spend many days on the island exploring the beaches and museums, soaking up all the beauty and quite from the bustling city.
Benesse Art Site Naoshima — An art project spanning the island featuring an immersive and thought-provoking artistic experience. This art sanctuary on the sea has earned its reputation as a must-visit destination, where creativity meets tranquility in a captivating and unforgettable fusion of culture and nature.
Chicchu Art Museum & Cafe — An exquisite and thoughtful museum honoring the best of nature and art. Note that there is a strict “No Photography” rule — simply take pictures with your eyes. Be sure to stop by the café for a coffee or lunch and enjoy the stunning views from the terrace.
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Spanning over 500 hectares, the park serves as a harmonious sanctuary where visitors can interact with friendly and sacred Sika deer that roam freely throughout the grounds. These gentle creatures are considered messengers of the gods, adding a touch of spirituality and wonder to the park's atmosphere. Stroll along tranquil ponds, vibrant gardens, and wooded areas, providing a serene escape into nature's embrace.
