Understand Japan a little deeper.
Stories, language, culture & everyday Japan
Japan is more interesting when you understand the little things behind it. Explore Japanese language, culture, travel, and everyday life through a native Japanese perspective — including the things Japan doesn't always explain.
FOOD AND DRINKS
Discover hidden gems, navigate local etiquette, and savor the essence of Japanese cuisine with our expert tips on where to eat and drink in the vibrant streets of Tokyo.
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.
This is the soba I grew up with. Handmade Tokyo-style soba in Ueno, owned by my grade-school friend and still one of my favorites.
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.
Great chicken, yakitori, sake and oyakodon to finish. This is one of my favorite ways to spend an evening around Ueno.
Beer, nikomi, skewers and seats under the train tracks. Daitouryo is one of those places where Ueno feels completely like 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.
![[Best Ramen in Tokyo] 3 Ramen you must try](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/55e33189e4b0ade6e0829dee/1573936195955-034KQUCJG1TRMGZE430P/IMG_2708+-+Copy+-+Copy.JPG)
CULTURE
Our blog takes you on a journey through Tokyo's historic temples, futuristic districts, and traditional festivals.
Yes, Sensoji is famous—but Asakusa is much more than a tourist stop. Here’s how I enjoy one of Tokyo’s most historic neighborhoods.
SHOPPING
Our blog is your go-to guide for navigating the vibrant shopping scene, from luxury boutiques in Ginza to quirky finds in Harajuku.
Gundam Base is a fun place to just look at many figures but also in the outside courtyard you can see the big Gundam statue. Definitely worth seeing it!!
Ueno has a long connection with American casual style. Hinoya is one of my favorite places to see that history through Japanese denim.
Military jackets, MA-1s, camouflage and classic Americana. Nakata Shoten is part of the wonderfully chaotic shopping culture around Ueno.
Small space, tons of stuff, locals and tourists all mixed together—Yamashiroya is wonderfully chaotic and, to me, very Ueno.
ENTERTAINMENT
Unlock Tokyo's Entertainment Magic: From neon-lit gaming arcades in Akihabara to world-class performances in Roppongi, our blog unveils the secrets to Tokyo's vibrant entertainment scene.
Yes, Sensoji is famous—but Asakusa is much more than a tourist stop. Here’s how I enjoy one of Tokyo’s most historic neighborhoods.
TRAVEL PLAN
Whether you're a first-time visitor or a seasoned explorer, we provide insider insights to help you maximize your time in Tokyo.
![[Tokyo Family Fun] Odaiba Day Trip](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/55e33189e4b0ade6e0829dee/1575749372691-17ALW3G6HO4X05N52KWI/tokyo-3131977_1280.jpg)
JAPANESE LIVING
Learn more about Japan: Embrace bowing for respect, master the art of gift-giving, and participate in cultural rituals like tea ceremonies to connect with the essence of Japanese tradition and manners.
When comes to Japanese wisdom word or phrase, it’s often the case that becomes popular outside of Japan first since we just live by that philosophy.
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![[アメリカ生活] コロナ禍の子供へのプレゼントーバランスボード](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/55e33189e4b0ade6e0829dee/1610998522788-9PSX76EAO689G9DCPKXG/%E3%83%8F%E3%82%99%E3%83%A9%E3%83%B3%E3%82%B9%E3%83%9B%E3%82%99%E3%83%BC%E3%83%88%E3%82%99%EF%BC%BF%E3%82%BF%E3%82%A4%E3%83%88%E3%83%AB.jpg)
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![[ポートランドグルメ] ラーメン龍馬 オレゴン州ビーバートン](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/55e33189e4b0ade6e0829dee/1607883835018-N7KOQXKNN6J85IABNFQ6/%E9%BE%8D%E9%A6%AC%E3%83%A9%E3%83%BC%E3%83%A1%E3%83%B3.jpg)
![[アメリカ生活術] ペンキ塗りでお家生活をENJOYしよう](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/55e33189e4b0ade6e0829dee/1603303345737-Y8BSYN5SUCOG55HBMDKV/%E3%83%98%E3%82%9A%E3%83%B3%E3%82%AD%E5%A1%97%E3%82%8A%E5%A5%A5%E7%BE%A9.jpg)
![[アメリカ生活] オレゴン州でのコロナウイルスの対応](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/55e33189e4b0ade6e0829dee/1585246501342-RVWXVL3BMV4XHD9CRS8H/covid19_oregon_Japan.jpg)
![[アメリカ生活談] 缶瓶ペットボトルリサイクル](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/55e33189e4b0ade6e0829dee/1604437949401-4AWMTX5E439DCQUIXWVE/recycle_bottle.jpg)
![[アメリカ生活談] アメリカ版の電話詐欺の注意点と対処法](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/55e33189e4b0ade6e0829dee/1574958944534-PLKEOS0HT0M4F2T31GTA/hacking-2964100_1280.jpg)
![[アメリカ生活術] アメリカで日本人らしく生きる方法](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/55e33189e4b0ade6e0829dee/1573434636336-4TK6JX6M96WAV28FES21/IMG_7545.JPG)
A traditional unagi restaurant near Sensoji Temple that I grew up eating at. Come for the eel, stay for the old-school Asakusa atmosphere.