「Travel Smart, Explore More！」
Walking into The Hakone Open-Air Museum felt like stepping into an art paradise embraced by the forest. I’ve visited Hakone more than five times, and honestly, I always thought adding a museum stop felt a little rushed. But I finally checked this one off my Hakone travel list! Let me…
When planning a trip from Tokyo to Hakone, the first thing most travelers look up is the Hakone Free Pass. While this pass certainly makes travel around Hakone more convenient, many people still wonder: Is the Hakone Free Pass really worth it, or is it simply a matter of convenience?…
Tax-Free Shopping in Japan is often one of the biggest highlights of the trip. Whether it’s cosmetics, electronics, luxury brands, or souvenirs, many visitors take advantage of Japan’s tax-free shopping system to save on the 10% consumption tax. And with the yen currently at a historic low, it would be…
When it comes to Tokyo’s top-ranked tonkatsu spots, Mochi Buta Tonkatsu Taiyo (もち豚とんかつ たいよう) is practically a regular on every must-try list. Since opening in 2008, this humble tonkatsu shop has not only earned a place in Tabelog’s “Top 100 Tonkatsu Restaurants” year after year, but has also been recognized…
When people think of a Hakone trip, the first things that usually come to mind are hot springs, art museums, or the stunning lakeside torii gate. But to me, there’s something else just as essential: indulging in Hakone’s local food! One of the absolute must-tries is the long-established Tamura Ginkatsutei…
When people think of Sendai, what often comes to mind is gyutan (beef tongue), the Sendai Morning Market, Sendai Castle, or maybe just a convenient stopover when heading to other parts of the Tohoku region. But Sendai itself holds plenty of surprises. One place that really stood out to me…
When people think of Akita’s Namahage (なまはげ｜Namahage), the first image that often comes to mind is a fearsome red or blue demon wearing a terrifying mask and holding a knife, something that seems like a character designed just to scare children during a festival. But when I actually stepped into…
When you think of Akita, what comes to mind first? Maybe Akita dogs, rice, or hot springs. But for Tsubaki, the most unforgettable highlight of a trip to Akita was the Namahage, those straw-clad, fang-masked demons who bang on doors and shout in booming voices. This traditional ritual in Oga…
When it comes to the most beautiful starry skies in Japan, many people might immediately think of Achi Village in Nagano. But in fact, Ishigaki Island is the only place in Japan officially certified as an International Dark Sky Park, making it the top destination for stargazing! Especially in areas…
Deep in Wakayama Prefecture, surrounded by the borders of Nara and Mie, lies the small village of Kitayama. Its most iconic summer activity is the Kitayama River IKADA-KUDARI Log Rafting (北山川観光筏下り), a rare and thrilling experience where you ride a real log raft down a rushing river. The whole experience…
If you’re planning to visit the Tian Tan Buddha on Lantau Island, taking a ride on the Ngong Ping 360 Cable Car is an experience you simply can’t miss. As the longest cable car system in Asia, it’s far more than just a means of transportation. I originally thought Ngong…
How do you get from Hong Kong International Airport to the city center?Whether it’s your first time visiting Hong Kong or you’re a seasoned traveler, it’s worth taking a closer look at the different transportation options available from the airport to downtown. Each comes with its own advantages depending on…
Planning a trip to Hong Kong? Beyond just mapping out your itinerary, there’s quite a bit of essential information that’s worth knowing beforehand. Based on my personal experience visiting Hong Kong, I’ve compiled this detailed guide to help you get prepared with ease. Whether it’s your first visit or a…
On this trip to Hong Kong, I had one breakfast spot on my radar from the very beginning: the legendary Australia Dairy Company, known for its long lines that people gladly wait in. Located near Jordan Station, this iconic cha chaan teng (Hong Kong-style diner) is a symbol of local…
In Hong Kong, desserts are part of everyday street culture, you’ll find sweet shops on nearly every corner. But to stand out among the crowd and consistently earn recommendations in the Michelin Guide year after year? That takes more than luck. This time, Tsubaki headed to Kai Kai Dessert, located…
After landing in Hong Kong, the fastest and most comfortable way to get to the city center is the Hong Kong Airport Express. The very first time I visited Hong Kong, I took this line straight to the city without needing to think about train transfers. Plus, if you’re carrying…
When it comes to Hong Kong-style cha chaan teng (local diners), the very first name that pops into Tsubaki’s mind is Lan Fong Yuen. It’s practically a pilgrimage spot for every foodie visiting Hong Kong—locals and tourists alike crowd in for a taste of the original, old-school silk-stocking milk tea…
Cantonese dim sum restaurants are typically not cheap, but during our trip, we stumbled upon a clean and incredibly affordable place near our hotel called DIM SUM Here. With no expectations, we decided to give it a try, and we were completely blown away. It was such a pleasant surprise…
During my free-and-easy trip to Hong Kong, I finally got the chance to catch up with my friend Chung Wai, whom I’ve known for over 10 years. Together, we visited Waso Cafe (華嫂冰室), a cha chaan teng (Hong Kong-style cafe) that’s not only beloved by locals but also highly popular…
XEX Atago Hills Salvatore Cuomo Bros has always been one of Tsubaki’s treasured picks when it comes to Tokyo Tower view restaurants. Interestingly, it became a favorite of mine all thanks to work. My very first visit was actually for a client dinner organized by my boss. The moment I…
