Food

Oisesan Confectionary Expo 2017 in Mie Prefecture

Ponshukan – Sake Heaven

Highlight of Echigo Yuzawa Station

by Alena Eckelmann

Niigata

At the Ponshukan in Yuzawa, you can wait for your train while drinking vending-machine sake and bathing in an onsen where the hotspring water is enriched with sake.

Gonpachi in Nishi-Azabu

The 'Kill Bill' restaurant

by Jessica Chambers

Tokyo

Gonpachi, otherwise known as the 'Kill Bill Restaurant' located in the heart of Roppongi is one of Japan's best tourist hotspots for any movie fanatic.

Shinjuku's Memory Lane

Omoide Yokocho recreates Tokyo's post-war eating alleys

by Andrew Ng

Tokyo

Previously known as Piss Alley, over 60 bars and restaurants are crammed along the side of Shinjuku JR station on the grounds used by post-war black market traders.

Shibuya Secrets: Nonbei Yokocho

A peaceful escape in Tokyo's busiest neighborhood

by James Rodrigues

Tokyo

Nonbei Yokocho, or Drunkard's Alley, is a tiny pathway spitting distance from Shibuya Crossing jammed with tiny bars, restaurants and izakayas. It's like a pocket version of Old Tokyo, and somehow still remains relatively hidden and unknown despite its sensational location.

Top 5 Animal Cafes in Tokyo

An overview of Tokyo's different animal cafes

by Marcella Dita Armilla

Tokyo

Have you ever been to animal café in Japan? Animal cafes in Tokyo are very famous among both animal lovers from Japan or around the world.

Torikizoku

Cheap and tasty yakitori in downtown Tokyo

by Christie Petrakopoulou

Tokyo

Torikizoku serves cheap and tasty yakitori in downtown Shinjuku, Tokyo.

Mochi Pounding at Nakatanidou

Japan's fastest mochi pounders

by Cheryl Mui

Nara

Have your mochi pounded at breakneck speed by champion mochi-making experts before eating it fresh and warm on the spot.

Oisesan Confectionary Expo 2017 in Mie Prefecture

Satisfying a sweet tooth craving with your mouth and your eyes

by Larisa Amaya-Baron

Mie

For the first time in its century-old history, the National Confectionery Expo is being held in Mie Prefecture, from Friday April 21st to Sunday May 14th 2017. Tickets are ¥1,800 for advance reservation and ¥2,000 at the gate. Official website in English: http://www.kashihaku-mie.jp.e.yk.hp.transer.com/