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Why is fruit so expensive in Japan? (it's not... mostly)
Let's have a minute of silence for all of the TikTok influencers who claim they spent their whole Japan trip constipated or came home with scurvy because they hadn't been able to afford any fresh fruit in Japan. Most fruit in Japan isn't expensive at all. Here's how to make sure you get your vitamins, plus a season-by-season guide so you know exactly what to buy (or pick yourself) on your trip.

japansophy
Jun 165 min read


Hozenji Yokocho: Osaka's hidden alleyway into the past
We find Hozenji Yokocho charming. It has elements of Golden Gai in Tokyo and of Pontocho in Kyoto but unmistakably Osaka at the same time and is one of the few historical streets that the city still has. The moss-covered Buddha statue is much-loved among locals and is certainly one of the more unusual you will see in Japan. Personally, I find it a little creepy but maybe I watched too much Dr Who as a kid.

japansophy
May 156 min read


Japanese Curry: Japan's Ultimate Comfort Food
Japanese curry is the comfort food you never knew you needed. Make some at home this winter! You, dear reader, might be sitting on that...

japansophy
Sep 15, 20258 min read


DiverCity Tokyo Plaza: for shopping, entertainment, and Gundam thrills
The Rainbow Stairs at DiverCity in Odaiba, Tokyo, are infinitely instagrammable Get ready for an exciting and futuristic experience at DiverCity Tokyo Plaza (ダイバーシティ東京 プラザ), a sprawling shopping and entertainment complex located on Tokyo's man-made island of Odaiba. Day or night, it's a vibrant destination that blends high-end fashion with pop culture and technology, all set against a stunning waterfront backdrop. As you approach the entrance, you can't miss the colossal, lif

japansophy
Aug 17, 20254 min read


Hoppy Street: for retro vibes and a taste of old-school Tokyo
The name says it all: Hoppy Street in Asakusa is famous for its casual, retro-style drinking establishments and eateries Step into a wonderfully retro and laid-back world on Hoppy Street (ホッピー通り, Hoppī Dōri), a charming alleyway in Asakusa that's a true hidden gem for foodies and those seeking an authentic, old-school Tokyo experience. You won't find too many fancy restaurants here. Instead, explore a wonderfully preserved slice of "Shitamachi" (old downtown) Tokyo, offering

japansophy
Aug 17, 20254 min read


What to do in Ginza, Tokyo: top 20 things that aren't luxury shopping!
Ginza has a reputation for being Tokyo's most expensive neighbourhood — and it isn't wrong. But there's more going on here than luxury boutiques. From free weekend street promenades and a 120-year-old stationery shop to single-act kabuki tickets and one of Tokyo's most beautiful gardens, here's what to do in Ginza for every type of traveller.

japansophy
Aug 16, 202512 min read


Odaiba: Tokyo's Futuristic Island Playground in the Bay!
Rainbow stairs at Odaiba's DiverCity: just one of the evening time attractions of this modern complex Get ready for a super-fun, futuristic escape to Odaiba (お台場), Tokyo's incredible man-made island in Tokyo Bay! Leave traditional Tokyo behind: this is a vibrant, modern district packed with impressive architecture, sprawling shopping malls, cool entertainment complexes, unique museums, and absolutely stunning waterfront views. From gazing at the iconic Rainbow Bridge to meeti

japansophy
Aug 16, 20256 min read


Tokyu Plaza Harakado: The latest vibe in Harajuku, complete with a bathhouse!
Right across the street from Tokyo Plaza Omotesando, this younger complex shares the same style and vibe Tokyu Plaza Harajuku, aka...

japansophy
Aug 15, 20254 min read


Takeshita Dori: Harajuku's Quirky, Colourful Heartbeat!
Harajuku Takeshita Street Tokyo is not for the faint-hearted Get ready for a dazzling explosion of fashion, pop culture, and sheer...

japansophy
Aug 15, 20255 min read


Cat Street: Tokyo's back-street fashion hub
Cat Street is a fashion-lovers paradise with a bit more elbow room than Takeshita Street. Image Rs1421 , CC BY-SA 3.0 , via Wikimedia...

japansophy
Aug 15, 20254 min read


Omotesando: Stroll in Style Down Tokyo's Champs-Élysées
Omotesando (表参道) is Tokyo's premier boulevard of high fashion, sophisticated architecture, and elegant cafes. Often likened to Paris's Champs-Élysées, this beautiful tree-lined avenue stretches through the Shibuya and Minato wards, connecting Harajuku to Aoyama. The vibe here is chic, refined, and effortlessly stylish, offering a stark yet pleasant contrast to the youthful frenzy of Takeshita Street just a stone's throw away. Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links.

japansophy
Aug 15, 20255 min read


Miyashita Park: Tokyo's Urban Oasis with a View
Miyashita Park rooftop garden is an oasis in the heart of Shibuya Welcome to Miyashita Park (宮下公園) , Shibuya's incredibly cool and unique...

japansophy
Aug 15, 20255 min read


Shibuya Center Gai: Dive into Tokyo's Youth Culture
Shopping, eating, drinking, karaoke, gachapons... Shibuya Center Gai will keep you entertained for hours on end Shibuya Center Gai (...

japansophy
Aug 15, 20254 min read
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