Japan, Explained a Little Deeper.

Language, culture, travel — and the little things Japan doesn’t always explain.

Stories, Lessons & Tips from Japan

Learn the Japanese you actually hear, understand the culture behind everyday life, and discover Tokyo through the places I know.

Japanese Language • Culture • Tokyo • Travel

Motokyo 8/3/22 Motokyo 8/3/22

Yoshi Sushi (よし寿司）| Ueno

Good sushi doesn’t always need to be expensive or intimidating. Yoshi Sushi is an easygoing Ueno spot I like for quality sushi with family and friends.

Motokyo 7/13/22 Motokyo 7/13/22

KAIKAYA-BY THE SEA (開花屋) | Shibuya

Motokyo 5/12/21 Motokyo 5/12/21

UOSHIN SHIBUYA (魚真) | Shibuya

Motokyo 4/7/21 Motokyo 4/7/21

Hinoya (ヒノヤ) | Japanese Denim in Ueno

Ueno has a long connection with American casual style. Hinoya is one of my favorite places to see that history through Japanese denim.

Motokyo 3/17/21 Motokyo 3/17/21

Sushikou (寿司幸) | Casual Sushi in Ueno

One of the first sushi restaurants I felt comfortable visiting on my own. Sit at the counter, talk to the chef and definitely try the negitoro.

Motokyo 3/17/21 Motokyo 3/17/21

Torie (鳥恵) | Yakitori in Ueno

Great chicken, yakitori, sake and oyakodon to finish. This is one of my favorite ways to spend an evening around Ueno.

Motokyo 12/9/20 Motokyo 12/9/20

Nakata Shoten (中田商店) | Ueno

Military jackets, MA-1s, camouflage and classic Americana. Nakata Shoten is part of the wonderfully chaotic shopping culture around Ueno.

Motokyo 10/7/20 Motokyo 10/7/20

Toritake (鳥竹) | Shibuya

Motokyo 5/6/20 Motokyo 5/6/20

Daitouryo (大統領) | Ueno

Beer, nikomi, skewers and seats under the train tracks. Daitouryo is one of those places where Ueno feels completely like Ueno.

Motokyo 4/15/20 Motokyo 4/15/20

HOURAIYA（蓬莱屋) | Ueno

An old-school tonkatsu restaurant that has been part of Ueno for generations. Come here for the specialty: tender hirekatsu with a light, crisp coating.