There is nothing quite like Tokyo seen at night. I think most people associate that with images of glittering metropolitan centers such Shinjuku and Shibuya. But my favorite places for a night walk in Tokyo are narrow alleys brimming with Izakaya and street food. Something about the lanterns with their colorful lights, the mouthwatering smellsContinue reading “Night Walks in Nakano: A Tokyo Photoblog”
Author Archives: tokyodreamlife
A Harajuku Haircut and an Empty Takeshita Street
Due to the Covid-19 state of emergency it’s been a long time since I’ve been to Harajuku, and in just a few months many things have changed. I went through the new station building for the first time this morning, and I just thought, when did this get here?? I felt a rush of nostalgiaContinue reading “A Harajuku Haircut and an Empty Takeshita Street”
A Tokyo Shopping Trip: Water Goddesses and Green Tea Lattes in Kichijoji
I had some shopping to do yesterday so I was debating between Tokyo Station and Kichijoji. Due to the Covid-19 situation I opted for Kichijoji because I thought it would be a little less busy, and therefore easier to adhere to social distancing. I made four main stops: Inokashira Park (for fresh air and enjoyingContinue reading “A Tokyo Shopping Trip: Water Goddesses and Green Tea Lattes in Kichijoji”
The Forgotten City between Kyoto and Tokyo: Nagoya
I won’t lie, Nagoya was voted the most boring city in Japan quite a few times, but don’t let that discourage you! It’s the home of Nagoya Castle and Atsuta Jingu: which is the resting place of one of Japan’s scared treasures – the Kusanagi no Tsurugi, a legendary sword. Nagoya Station itself is anContinue reading “The Forgotten City between Kyoto and Tokyo: Nagoya”
Japan Adventures: Staying Overnight at a Temple
Back in 2016 I learned that it was possible, at a few locations, to stay the night at a Buddhist Temple. This kind of temple lodging, called a Shukubo, was traditionally reserved for pilgrims but these days all are welcome to stay and take part in temple life. As I was already planning to goContinue reading “Japan Adventures: Staying Overnight at a Temple”
Keeping Sane in Self-Quarantine: Let’s Talk Video Games
Video Games have always been a great escape for me. Books, music, and video games – these are the things that allow my brain to shut down and take part in some other (ideally nicer) universe. So I wanted to talk about what has been keeping me sane while I’m stuck at home as theContinue reading “Keeping Sane in Self-Quarantine: Let’s Talk Video Games”
Renting a Kimono for Kyoto Sightseeing
Sightseeing in Kyoto is always a delightful journey to the past. The narrow alleys and traditional wooden buildings are complemented not only by the Geisha and Maiko that are rushing around to jobs but also by all of the visitors joining in on the fun by renting kimono. If you are going to explore Gion,Continue reading “Renting a Kimono for Kyoto Sightseeing”
Japanese Supermarket Secrets: My Favorite Instant, Frozen, and Easy Food
As almost all of us have been self-isolating and going to Izakaya’s and restaurants has become a distant dream I thought I would share some of my favorite things you can find at the supermarket. Craving crispy gyoza? Refreshing soba? The best instant ramen?! Allow me to introduce you to my faves. My Favorite FrozenContinue reading “Japanese Supermarket Secrets: My Favorite Instant, Frozen, and Easy Food”
How to Order Sushi in Japanese
When traveling to Japan it’s only natural to want to try sushi! But smaller sushi restaurants may have little to no English support, so it’s important to brush up on your Japanese sushi vocabulary. In this short guide I will take you through the types of sushi restaurants in Japan – there is something forContinue reading “How to Order Sushi in Japanese”
Tokyo Neighborhood Spotlight: Kichijoji
Tokyo is an interesting place. Any neighborhood you visit feels like its own private realm, with its own architecture, fashion, types of shops and cafes, and people. One of my favorite places to walk around in Tokyo is Kichijoji – just next to Mitaka which is known for the Ghibli Museum. Ride a Swan BoatContinue reading “Tokyo Neighborhood Spotlight: Kichijoji”
Tokyo Dreamlife 