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Kabukicho: is it worth visiting in 2026?
Kabukicho is where Tokyo lets its hair down completely, and the result is one of the most exhilarating urban spectacles on the planet. But the district has been getting a bad rap of late, so is it still worth visiting? Here's our take: what to see and do, where to stay, best times to visit and how to stay safe - watch out for that giant, smoke-breathing lizard!

japansophy
7 days ago7 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


Tokyo Station: Grandiose European charm and a modern urban experience
An architectural incongruity amongst the modern skyscrapers of the Marunouchi district, Tokyo Station is the transportation heart of the city. The gateway to Japan's intricate railway network, Tokyo Station (東京駅) is an architectural masterpiece located in the heart of the city and blends historical grandeur with the sleek efficiency of a modern metropolis. Originally opened in 1914, the station's iconic red brick facade evokes a sense of European elegance, standing in stark c

japansophy
Aug 20, 20255 min read


Tsukiji Outer Market: a foodie nirvana with a long tradition
Fresh fish for sale at the Tsukiji fish market Tsukiji Outer Market (築地場外市場, Tsukiji Jōgai Shijō) is a vibrant district adjacent to the...

japansophy
Aug 20, 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...

japansophy
Aug 17, 20254 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


Sensoji Buddhist Temple & Nakamise-dori: Asakusa's Enduring Heartbeat
Sensoji Buddhist temple is on everybody's Tokyo itinerary. Go extra early to beat the crowds. Step into a bustling portal to old Tokyo...

japansophy
Aug 16, 20256 min read


Ameyoko Shopping Street: Dive into Tokyo's Bustling Bargain Bazaar!
Ready for a sensory overload in the best possible way? Then get yourself down to Ameya-Yokocho (アメヤ横丁) , affectionately known as Ameyoko shopping street! This is your down-and-dirty side of Tokyo; a wonderfully chaotic, incredibly lively, and delightfully gritty outdoor market street nestled just south of Ueno Station. Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you click through and make a purchase, I may earn a small commission, ♡ at no extra cost to you ♡ Jump

japansophy
Aug 15, 20255 min read


Yanaka Ginza: for old Tokyo charm and a retro shopping experience
Yanaka Ginza is known for its laid-back, retro vibes: a world away from Tokyo's other Ginza! Step back in time at Yanaka Ginza Shopping Street ( 谷中銀座) , a charming, traditional shopping street nestled in the heart of Tokyo. a charming, traditional shopping street nestled in the heart of Tokyo. This isn't your flashy Shibuya or Shinjuku; instead, it's a wonderfully preserved slice of "Shitamachi" (old downtown) Tokyo, offering a nostalgic glimpse into local life. It's located

japansophy
Aug 15, 20254 min read


Omoide Yokocho: Step Back in Time in Shinjuku's "Memory Lane"
The legendary Omoide Yokocho (Memory Lane) is a journey back to post-war Tokyo Get ready for a trip down memory lane – literally! Omoide...

japansophy
Aug 15, 20255 min read


Shinjuku Golden Gai, Tokyo's Retro Bar Alley
The legendary Golden Gai is a journey back to post-war Tokyo Shinjuku Golden Gai (新宿ゴールデン街) is one of Tokyo's most unique and atmospheric nightlife districts. Tucked away in a small corner of Shinjuku's Kabukicho area, it's a labyrinth of six narrow alleys packed with over 200 tiny, quirky bars, many of which can only seat a handful of customers. The vibe here is wonderfully retro, intimate, and bohemian, offering a stark contrast to the bright lights and larger clubs of mode

japansophy
Aug 15, 20255 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


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


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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