Food, especially the local cuisine, is a huge part of the travel experience. And in a country like Japan where the food is so well-loved here at home, you’ll want it to be as authentic as it can get. We’ve written a lot about Japan food: from the best Japanese restaurants, to the their strangely themed cafes. And while Japanese Japanese street food is also great, here are a few other options when you’re on a budget.
Convenience Store Bento Boxes
Japan Food: Bento Box from Family Mart
For the penny-pinching traveler, convenience store take-out is usually a sad attempts at a decent meal. But in Japan, convenience stores have anything and everything—including really, really good food. The generic Donburi (rice bowls) come in different styles to choose from: there’s gyudon (marinated beef strips), katsudon (deep-fried pork and scrambled eggs), and oyakodon (chicken and scrambled eggs). Not just that; You can find all sorts of snacks and quick bites here as well!
Average price: 400 to 600 yen.
Try: Natural Lawson Donburi, which is a healthier variety.
Gyudon Chains
Japan Food: Gyudon from Yashinoya
If you’re looking for a cheap but filling meal in Japan, look no further than any of the major Gyudon stores. At its most basic, you get a rice bowl topped with minced beef and onions drizzled in soy sauce with a bowl of miso soup. But for a couple more yen, you can add a soft-boiled egg, extra onions, and natto. Even better than the price? Most Gyudon stores are open 24/7!
Average Cost: 250 to 350 yen
Check Out: Yashinoya, Matsuya, Sukiya
Ramen Joints
Japan Food: Tantan-men style ramen from Nakiryu (image via Guilhem Vellut )
A favorite among Singaporeans, the ramen dish has lots of variations across Japan. Tokyo style ramen is usually served with kamaboko, half an egg, and topped with leeks and bamboo shoots. Hakata style ramen, from the Kyushu island, is topped with chashu, scallions, sesame seeds, and pickled ginger. And then there’s Tantan-men Ramen, which is a take-off from the Chinese dandan noodles. This particular style is a specialty from the Nakiryu restaurant. Nakiryu is not only affordable, but has also garnered the prestigious Michelin star!
Average Price: 600 to 800 yen
Check Out: Nakiryu Restaurant, Kourakuen, and Hidakaya
Sushi Bars
Japan Food: Tokyo Sushi Bar
Who would’ve thought that kaiten (conveyor belt) sushi is actually the budget option? You’ll find tons household names in Tokyo. Plates often start at just 100 yen, and also have tempura, fried chicken, soups, teriyaki. For even better deals, go to these places during lunch time; prices tend to be a lot cheaper.
But if you really want to get the best sushi at the best price, head over to the Tsukiji Fish Market for the freshest fish around! We guarantee you’ll want to become a sushi master afterwards!
Average Price: 800 yen for a filling meal
Check Out: Genki Sushi, Katsu Midori, and the Tsukiji Fish Market
There are lots to do at the Kichijoji Station: you can play football at the Tokyo Musashino City FC, visit the Studio Ghibli Museum, or explore the shopping area. But whatever you do, you’ll work up a big appetite. Don’t miss out on these bites next time you’ve hop off the station!
1. Satou Beef Balls さとう
Smell the sweet onion the moment you take a bite! (image via Wei-Te Wong)
You haven’t been to Kichijoji if you haven’t tried the fried beef balls! Satou is a meat poultry store that sells Matsusaka steak, beef steak, fried snacks and now beef balls. The beef balls are fried to a golden brown, and with just one bite, you’ll taste the delicious juicy stuffing and sweet onion. One beef ball cost about 200 yen, and if you buy more than 5 beef ball, it will only cost 160 yen each.
2. Kichijoji Large Bowl どんぶり
With all sorts of beef, pork and chicken available, this is a must-try for all the meat lovers. The owner likes to challenge customers to finish an entire bowl for themselves. A large bowl usually costs 600-850 yen.
3. Kebab Houseいせや
Savor the juicy meat kebabs after a long day of work (Photo credit: nakashi via VisualHunt / CC BY-SA)
Let the aroma of the barbecue lure you in, and just follow the smoke and long lines. This place is a long-time favourite of many Japanese commuters who come here after work, and is often full of people. Choose from sticks of pork tongue, pork cheek meat, small tender muscles, to chicken skewers. The best part? Each stick costs just about 80 yen!
4. HARBS Melaleuca Fruit Cake
The dessert choices can vary, depending on the fruits available (Photo credit: alexxis via Visual hunt / CC BY-ND)
Many visitors describe HARBS Melaleuca cake is the only Japanese food they will eat. There are many branches in Japan and the one in Kichijoji is located in the station アトレ (atre) mall B1. A lot of fresh fruits goes into making Melaleuca cake, and is as pretty as it is delicious. They use sour cream instead of sweet cream, giving the cake a unsually delightful flavour.
5. Woodberry’s Yogurt Ice Cream
Experience a unique sweet-sour dessert! (image via Erika 恵梨香 K.)
This mini-shop may not catch your eye the first time you glance around, but Woodberry’s Yogurt Ice Cream has become a household name in Tokyo desserts. The company is known not only for its distinctly light, sweet-sour taste, but also for cooperating with local farm-based production for the fruits. The flavours may be different each day, depending on the ingredients they choose to use, so keep coming back to try them all!
Tokyo is full of food, with bountiful budget options, street food on the corners, to the famous sit-down restaurants (READ: 10 Must-try Restaurants in Japan). And for things to do, be sure to check out KKday for all sorts of things to do in Japan this holiday!
Since its opening, the Tsukiji Market has provided some of the freshest sea catches in the world. Once just a simple wet market, Tsukiji quickly became a famous tourist attraction. But after 81 years, the buildings have aged and Tsukiji market is closing down. We’ll give you a brief rundown of one of Japan’s most well-loved spots.
Getting There
Take the Toei Subway Oedo Line to the Tsukijishijo Station , the Tsukiji Market can be spotted from the station.
Before going to the market, make sure to check if it’s open. It’s always closed on Sundays, public holidays, and certain Wednesdays. You can check its official website to plan your trip. If you aren’t attending the Tuna Auction, the inner market opens to the market at 9am.
Be sure to wear something warm. Over time, the market’s heating has worn out and temperatures have to kept very low to keep the fish fresh. Winter time can be especially frigid. Apart from extra layers, wear closed and flat shoes since flip-flops and high heels are not allowed.
The Stalls and Shops
Tsukiji Market has two main parts: the outer market, which houses the small shops and retail stores and the inner market which holds the famous Tuna Auction, and every kind of fish imaginable—including whale meat!
Photo credit: tjabeljan via Visualhunt / CC BY
Pro tip: Guards will tell you the inner market is closed off to the public before 9:00am, but that isn’t completely true; only passive visitors who won’t buy anything are disallowed. Simply tell the guards “kaimono” (shopping), and look for fish you think you can eat without cooking, such as sea urchin or salmon roe.
The Tuna Auction
The fishermen usually begin catching fish at 11:00pm the night before. Afterwards, they organize their catch by weight, type, and freshness, and ready them for the auction which opens as early as 4:00am.
Photo credit: Anna & Michal via Visual Hunt / CC BY
The Tuna Auction is particularly fascinating—a lively display of organized chaos, with stalls of sellers and vendors haggling the price of the freshest catch. Up to 120 foreigners are allowed to participate, but the tour slots quickly run out; tourists are advised to come as early as 2:30am! The first 60 tourists participate in the auction from 5:25 to 5:45am, while the next batch participates from 5:50am to 6:10am.
Be mindful of the market’s rules: the vendors are there to make a profit, not to put on a show, so they won’t hesitate to kick you out if you interfere with business. Flash photography is also not allowed.
Photo credit: wuestenigel via Visual hunt / CC BY
Sushi for Breakfast
You won’t find fresher sushi anywhere else. The most sought-after sushi is sold at Uogashi Yokocha (snaking queues at Sushi Dai and Daiwa Sushi!), but you can satisfy your post-auction cravings literally anywhere. Browse through the many stalls in the outer market for your fill of grilled fish, meat on skewers, fresh oysters, and uni (sea urchin) straight from the shell.
Tokyo Heritage
Photo credit: istolethetv via Visual Hunt / CC BY
Tsukiji market has played a big role in the Japanese culture. Nicknamed “Tokyo’s Stomach” by the locals, the stalls are all catered to the the typical Tokyo diet. Tsukiji is more that just simple cash transactions—it’s become a showcase of Japanese social and cultural customs to the international crowd. It has earned both a place in traditional Japanese food culture, as well as the global marketplace.
End of an Era: Tsukiji Market Relocation Program
The market migration has been a controversial topic. Come Winter 2017, “Tsukiji fish riparian” will open with about 60 shops and 400 off-site farm shops.
Photo credit: macabrephotographer via VisualHunt.com / CC BY-SA
Right now, it’s unsure how the relocation will go, as the plan has been faced with several controversies. Many believe that the only way to preserve the culture and character of the Tsukiji Market is to imagine what the original Nihonbashi Group would establish the food culture and traditions of the future. Visit Tsukiji Market before it relocates to witness its authentic character!
Have you been hoarding washi tape and colourful pens from Muji? Many people love Japan-made stationeries because both the premium quality and designs that range from elegant to wacky. We’ve rounded up 5 stationery stores that will make you wish you could be a student again!
1. For Trendy Basics: Loft Trendy Store
Like its name suggested, Loft is indeed trendy with all sorts latest merchandises. Step in and marvel at the 7 floors of all sorts of colourful stationery supplies.
Photo credit: martinhoward via VisualHunt / CC BY
They have cosmetic products, school supplies, even snacks. Lose yourself in the aisles of paper bags, pens, stamps, and fan-themed merchandise.
The name says it all: Travel Factory is made for travelers and sells things such as maps, pocket journals, and travel-themed buttons for your luggage.
Photo credit: Richard, enjoy my life! via Visual hunt / CC BY-SA
Apart from the cute items they sell, Traveler’s Factory also draws in crowds with its quaint cafe and crafting table. Perfect for a lazy afternoon after days of exploring Tokyo!
Website: Traveler’s Factory Facebook
Tel: 03-6412-7830
Opening hours: 12:00 – 20:00
Address: Tokyo Meguro Meguro District 3-13-10
3. For Elegant Souvenirs: Tokyo Kyukyodo
Photo credit: Keng Susumpow via Visual hunt / CC BY
Kyukyodo was founded all the way back in 1663 and has made a name for selling traditional and elegant stationery. This is the best place to go for classy souvenir reminiscent of Imperial Japan.
Traditional Postcards (Photo credit: othree via VisualHunt.com / CC BY)
Website:KyuKyodo website Tel: 03-3571-4429
Opening hours: 10:00 – 19:00
Address: Chuo Tokyo Ginza 5-7-4
4. More than Just School Supplies: Tokyu Hands Dept. Store
Tokyu Hands Department Store is one of those Japan stores that literally has everything. From household items, handicrafts, hardware, electrical appliances, stationery, cycling materials—you even have camping supplies!
Photo credit: chinnian via VisualHunt / CC BY-SA
Every kind of item come in a wide array of fun and cute designs to choose from. If you’re looking for a one-stop store for all your stationery needs (and more), this is it!
The store sells camping supplies, sports equipment, and of course—stationery. (Photo credit: ksuyin via Visual hunt / CC BY-SA)
Website: Tokyu Hands Facebook
Tel: 03-5361-3111
Opening hours: 10:00 – 20:30
Address: Shibuya-ku, Tokyo Sendagaya 5-24-2, Times Square Building 2 ~ 8F (Shinjuku Takashimaya Branch)
5. For Your #Studyblr Aesthetic: Ito-ya House
Photo credit: yto via Visual hunt / CC BY
Last but definitely not the least on our list is ITO-YA Bookstore. With over 100 years of history, this 13-storey building is a stand-out along the posh fashion boutiques of the Ginza commercial district.
Ito-ya has an entire floor devoted to colourful wrapping paper! (Photo credit: tonnoro via Visualhunt / CC BY)
Each floor has a different theme and houses different kinds of school supplies from gift packaging, office stationery, to art supplies. They even have a huge collection of paint chips!
Website: ITO-YA Website
Tel: 03-3561-8311
Opening hours: 10:00 – 20:00
Address: 2-7-15 Ginza Chuo Tokyo (Ginza Shop)
From high-end to thrift shops, high-fashion to otaku culture, Tokyo has it all. But the large city can get overwhelming to explore. Whether you’re hunting for something as specific as an authentic samurai sword, or you just want to casually browse standard department stores, you’ll be able to find it in Tokyo.
Ginza
Photo credit: Danny Choo via Visualhunt / CC BY-SA
You don’t talk about shopping in Tokyo without Ginza. As Tokyo’s premier upmarket shopping district, Ginza has every leading Japanese and international brand name in fashion and cosmetics. Posh boutiques and art galleries litter the affluent district. But behind all the glitz are glamour are small novelty shops such that sell cute toys and craft supplies.
Shibuya
An urban fountain of youth, it’s Tokyo’s Teenagers that run the fashion show here. The latest in youth fashion can be found here, with established boutiques such as Shibuya 109 that set the trends, new designers at Fake Tokyo, as well a number of smaller clothing shops. Shibuya is for the young and energetic, looking to be one step ahead of everyone on the streets. The famous Shibuya Crossing is also located here.
Shimo-Kitazawa
Photo Credit Guwashi999 via Visualhunt
If you find Shibuya too overwhelming, duck in to the neighborhood of Shimo-Kitazawa, a sort of hole-in-the-wall place for students and artists. It’s got the best vintage-clothing stores and record stores, along with all sorts of quirky shops, novelty restaurants, and hidden bars.
If you want to explore a little bit of everything, come to Shinjuku. The shopping district surrounds the Shinjuku train station, considered to be the busiest train station in the world, and a major Tokyo transportation hub. With all that foot traffic, you’ve got major department stores, flagship stores of well-loved Japanese brands like Isetan, and shops on shops of electronics.
Aoyama & Harajuku
Twin neighborhoods that could not be more different; the split personality of the two parallel shopping streets makes it a great place for shopping. Omotesando boulevard along Aoyama is lined with sophisticated, high fashion boutiques.
Photo credit: *_* via Visualhunt
Takeshita Dori of Harajuku, on the other hand, is the center of counter-culture with experimental fashion stalls. Accessible as it is interesting, Aoyama & Harajuku are filled with small cafes where you can just people watch. After shopping, check out these unique cafes to complete your experience.
Roppongi
Roppongi is considered the capital’s center of entertainment and nightlife. With the constant influx of travelers and expats, Roppongi is Tokyo’s—and by extensions, Japan’s—most diverse district. This makes for some truly interesting shopping trips, with businesses catering to both the locals and visitors. Upscale shopping options include Roppongi Hills and Tokyo Midtown. The district also has specialty shops like Yonamine Pearls for jewelry, and Japan Sword for all your samurai needs.
Akihabara
Photo credit: nakashi via Visual Hunt / CC BY-SA
The neighborhood has been nicknamed ‘Electronics Mecca,’ carrying retailers such major as Yodobashi Camera and Yamada Denki, as well all hundreds of tiny discount electronics shops all crammed into corners. Apart from electronics, Akihabara has also become home to Japan’s famous otaku culture with stalls selling all sorts of goods and fan merchandise for anime, manga, games, and J-Pop culture.
Nihonbashi
Photo credit: tinisanto via Visualhunt.com / CC BY-ND
But maybe you want a culture trip instead. Look no further that Nihonbashi, a neighborhood that grew from the imperial Edo period of Tokyo and still holds much of the traditional charm. Visit this bustling, old-school neighborhood for traditional goods such as kokeshi dolls and woodblock prints, as well as food from all over the region.
Jimbocho
(image via Antonio Tajuelo)
What do they say? “Of all the books in the world, the best stories can be found in between the pages of a passport.” But that shouldn’t stop you from exploring Japan’s incredible bookstores, and there’s no better place than Jimbocho. Home to over 170 bookshops, publishing houses, and literary societies and books in both English and Japanese, this neighborhood is a bibliophile’s dream.
Ochanomizu
As you exit the JR train at Ochanomizu station, you’ll find yourself in what is nicknamed ‘Guitar Street’. Check out Disk Union which sells all sorts of musical CDs and concert DVDs. And if you want practice your newfound skills? Bring your new guitar and check out the karaoke boxes at the Yasukuni Dori end of the street.
Enjoy all that Tokyo has to offer by checking out our other activities:
“Itadakimasu” is one of the first phrases you’ll encounter on your trip to Japan. The phrase loosely translates to “I humbly receive.” You’ll most likely hear it right before a meal where the meaning becomes, “Let’s eat!”
While Japan is brimming with incredible budget options, street eats, and novelty restaurants and cafes, take the opportunity to try out some of their incredible restaurants. At KKday, we’ve rounded up 10 of Japan’s best restaurants you have to try on your next trip. So clasp your hands together, bow your head slightly, and say, “Itadakimasu!”
For travelers who take their food excursions very seriously, any restaurant with the coveted Michelin Star ought to be checked out and sampled. It comes as no surprise that Unagi Uomasa Restaurant, one of Japan’s best Unagi restaurants, has garnered this prestigious international recognition. Uomasa prides itself for serving only the freshest eel. It’s only the moment you order when Uomasa cuts, skewers, grills or steams your eel.
The eel is live up until the moment you order, ensuring unparalleled freshness and quality.
In order to ensure your meal is as fresh as it can possibly be, preparation times take at least 40 minutes. While you wait, Uomasa will bring out a selection of fresh appetizers along with freshly cut liver, wasabi, and eel bone chips.
Specialty: Unagi Eel Dishes
Hours: Mondays to Sundays at 11:30am to 2:00pm and 5:00pm to 9:00pm. Closed on Tuesdays and 1st and 3rd Wednesdays of the month.
Location: 4-14-4, Higashiyotsugi, Katsushika-ku, Tokyo
After the department stores close, take a short breather from Ginza’s bustling night life and sit down for some high quality Kuroge Wagyu Beef Steak cooked teppanyaki style, with seasonal vegetables, wasabi, and garlic.
Sit down and relax before going out for some drinks.
Chefs expertly prepare quality meats, wagyu beef, Yonezawa pork and Daisen chicken alongside fresh, local seasonal ingredients.
Specialty: Teppanyaki
Hours: Daily at 5:00pm-11:00pm, with Fridays open until 3:00am
Location: Nitta Building 3F, 8-2-1, Ginza, Chuo-ku, Tokyo
Japanese restaurants across the globe always highlight their sushi bars, but nothing will ever come close to Hyakumangoku, located just off Showadori in Ueno.
Visit the Sushi Bar of Japan.
The owners and chefs have spent 45 years perfecting their Edo style sushi techniques, using only the freshest seasonal ingredients handpicked from the Tsujiki Market each morning. Dishes are served with homemade karasumi, along with herbal miso soup marinated for three weeks.
Edo style of sushi is a particularly difficult technique to master.
Specialty: Sushi
Hours: Mondays to Fridays at 4:00pm-10:00pm, Saturdays at 4:00pm-9:00pm. Closed on Sundays and Public Holidays
Location: Ebato Building 1F, 2-11-5, Higashiueno, Taitou-ku, Tokyo
Sample a taste of Ancient Japan in central Tokyo. Hyoki Kasuitei boasts of great customer service, that allows you to truly enjoy their famed Steamed Hot Pot course, served with sashimi, miso soup, and dessert.
Enjoy the Steamed Hot Pot, which uses wild vegetables and the highest quality meats.
Courses: Braised White Sukiyaki Course, Steamed Hot Pot Course
Hours: Mondays to Saturdays at 6:00-11:00pm. Closed on Sundays and Public Holidays
Location: Mercury Roppongi 1, 2F, 6-7-7, Roppongi, Minato-ku, Tokyo
Wagyu beef has earned cult favorite status from the seasoned gourmands to the amateur foodies, and Wagyu Imari Restaurant serves some of the best. The Hapinesumura beef, characterized by its melt-in-your-mouth flavour, is handpicked daily and rivals the Matsusaka beef.
Enjoy your luxury meal in a luxurious environment.Wagyu Set Course
Specialty: Wagyu Beef
Hours: Mondays to Fridays at 5:00pm-11:00pm, Weekends and Public Holidays at 11:30am-10:00pm
Location: Uniden Ginza building 7F, 2-8-12, Ginza, Chuo-ku, Tokyo
Since 1830, Nadaman has made a name for itself with its legacy for excellence. The restaurant chain has branches all over Japan, and a few in Hong Kong and Kuala Lumpur. And while each branch delivers the same top-notch meals, the experience at Kioi is particularly elevated because of the spectacular view of the Imperial Gardens.
Enjoy your meal as you marvel at the beauty of the Imperial Gardens
After visiting the Imperial Palace at Chidoya, feast like royalty at Nadaman and enjoy exquisite and authentic kaiseki cuisine.
Shabu-shabu Course
Courses: Tempura, Steak, Shabu-shabu
Hours: Weekdays at 11:30am-2:30pm and 5:00pm-10:00pm, Weekends at 11:30am-10:00pm
Location: Hotel New Otani garden tower 6F, 4-1, Kioicho, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo
Stop by not only for a delicious meal, but also to personally experience the art of paper frying. In Rogetsu, chefs use use a Kami nabe hot pot lined with special hot pot paper. Here they cook fresh and seasonal ingredients along with their signature Ojiya rice porridge.
Specialty: Kami Nabe Course
Hours: Mondays to Saturdays, 12:00pm-10:00pm. Closed on Sundays.
Location: Rogetsubiru 1F, 1-7-10, Sonezakishinchi, Kita-ku, Osaka-shi, Osaka
Kondo Restaurant lies in the beautiful and historic city of Kamakura, Kanagawa. The scenic coastal town is known for its incredible seafood and while many restaurants compete for the title, it’s Kondo Restaurant’s legacy of excellence that puts it on top.
Chef’s Recommendation: The Hot Pot Cuisine, served with sashimi and an assortment of grilled dishes
Specialty: Traditional Japanese Cuisine
Hours: Mondays to Sundays at 5:30pm – 9:00pm, except on Wednesdays and the second Thursday of each month.
Location: Tsutaya building 1F-3, 1-8-36, Yukinoshita, Kamakura-shi, Kanagawa
Many places can boast about carrying Kobe Beef, but few can claim to know how to serve it. It takes skill and expertise to capture the flavor, tenderness, and fatty, well-marbled texture and many restaurants simply fall short. Thankfully, Osaka Kobe Aburi Bokujo, which lies right by the heart of where the cattle graze, guarantees authenticity and excellence with every dish.
Grab the opportunity to indulge in the Luxury Kobe Beef Sanmei Package!
Specialty: Kobe Beef Course
Hours: Daily at 11:30am – 2:00pm and 5:00pm – 10:00pm
Location: Osaka City, Osaka City, North District, Shibata 2-8-11 Eong ル 1F
Tired of tempura that’s more batter than shrimp? Nothing like that will happen at Akasaka Hanamura! Founded in 1921 and tucked away in the back alley, Akasaka Hanamura may be small and unassuming but its near century’s worth of expertise and loyal patronage go unmatched.
Savour the specialty Tempura and Sashimi Course.
Enjoy a delicious tempura meal cooked right before your eyes, vegetables dipped in tentsuyusauce along and served with freshly grated daikon radish and yuzu citrus.
Specialty: Seasonal Tempura Course
Hours: Mondays to Sundays at 5:00pm to 10:00pm, except on Tuesdays.
Location: 6-6-5, Akasaka, Minato-ku, Tokyo
Special Promotion!
These restaurants that are guaranteed to leave you hungry for more, but long lines can leave you waiting and just plain…hungry.
Not today! In partnership with Gurunavi, KKday will ensure that tables are reserved for you at whichever restaurant and time slot you choose. You no longer have to spend hours queueing for these popular, crowd favourite restaurants or worry about not getting a seat. For more information or to make a reservation, go to our page here. Start your meal saying ‘Itadakimasu!‘ and end it with ‘Oishi!’
Looking for other things to do while in Japan? Check out our other activities:
Omotesando and Harajuku are best known as Japan’s center of youth and street-fashion, but between the alleys of these streets lies unsuspecting desserts that you might miss if you’re not aware of that these sweet treats exist. You don’t return satisfied till you taste the delectable dishes these 5 cafes in Tokyo are serving!
Nestled comfortably in Takeshita street, is a popular pastry shop, Croquant Chou Zaku Zaku, known for its puffs filled with vanilla custard cream fillings and Hokkaido milk ice cream with crispy almond crumbs.
Croquant Chou Zaku Zaku‘s open concept store with transparent windows allows let you see the pastry cafe at work. On most days, Croquant Chou Zaku Zaku is crowded with patrons, however, with such Japanese’s fast and efficient service, you can expect to get your desserts without waiting too long in the queue!
Ever wanted to try warm, crisp potato chips? You’re in luck! Fresh out of the oven, you can try Calbee‘s potato chips or fries firsthand before deciding on your purchase.
After indulging in Calbee chips on the first floor, move over to Calbee Plus‘ second floor where they have tons of merchandise on display ranging from food keychains to Calbee souvenirs. If your family and friends are huge fans of Calbee, you know what to bring home for them.
Address:
Calbee Plus Tokyo Station 9-1 Marunouchi 1 Chome Chiyoda-ku Tokyo
Inside Tokyo Okashi land B1 floor
Opening hours:
9am to 9pm
Address:
1-16-8 Jingumae, Shibuya-ku,
Tokyo Harajuku Station / Meiji-Jingumae Station
Tucked away in the streets of Omotesando, you’ll have to follow their advertisements and their indicators along the street to find PABLO Cafe.
Upon arrival, you’ll notice that PABLO Cafe‘s Omotesando outlet is split into two cafes separated by the different levels. You’ll be handed both menus while you’re queuing up so you can decide which of PABLO Cafe‘s two levels you’d like to dine in. If you’re looking for an escape from the crowd while enjoying your desserts, go up to the second floor, where it’s relatively more peaceful.
Known for serving “the best breakfast in the world”, Bills Omotesando is a popular western style cafe located on the 7th floor of Tokyu Plaza. By 8.30am you will be able to see women poised and ready to wait in line!
We recommend getting their muffin, coming with a roasted banana that compliments the taste of this seemingly simple dish. You can even drizzle honey over your muffins if you prefer to have a sweet breakfast.
Address:
7F Tokyu Plaza Omotesando Harajuku, 4-30-3 Jingumae, Shibuya-ku Tokyo
Operating hours:
8.30am to 11pm (last order at 10pm)
Move over Starbucks, Blue Bottle Coffee is the newest hipster coffee place — evident by its minimalist logo of a simple blue bottle. The coffee place prefers placing its emphasis on the production of their coffee, as shown by their extensive brewing guides.
Originated from United States, Blue Bottle Coffee currently only has two outlets in Asia, one of which is situated right in Tokyo. This is a good place to relax and unwind after shopping in Harajuku.
Address:
Japan, 〒135-0023 Tokyo, Hirano, 1−4−8
Operating hours:
8am to 7pm
Heard so much about the desserts in Tokyo, but not sure how you navigate your way to these delicious cafes?
Ahhh, Tokyo, one of our favourite cities in the world, infamous for its expensive shopping, food, accommodation etc. Basically everything in Japan is expensive, especially Tokyo — exactly why the frequent travellers at KKday are constantly on the lookout for cheaper options in Tokyo and we discovered these 5 cheap eateries in Tokyo you can indulge in all the yummy Japanese food even on a shoestring budget!
1. Hakata Tenjin Ramen
No trip to Japan is complete without a piping hot bowl of ramen. Hakata Tenjin Ramen, offering a decent ramen at an affordable price, is the perfect place for your ramen fix. There are various kind of soup base and ingredients like spring onion, seaweed to accompany your ramen. Our favourite soup base are tonkotsu (pork broth) and shoyu (soy sauce). Slurp up the bowl of piping hot ramen from only 500 yen (~ SGD $6.70) — even cheaper than a bowl of ramen in Singapore!
Address:
3-22-13 Shinjuku, Shinjuku, Tokyo Prefecture
Japanese curry the comfort food of many locals and boy, it’s not hard to understand why. Sticky rice served alongside a golden brown breaded cutlet fried to perfection before it’s covered with a generous amount of curry gravy. Yum.
Customise your sauce based on the level of spiciness: mild, medium hot, or hot — the affable Japanese stall owners are more than ready to make a recommendation if you need. Drop by one of the C&C Curry Shop‘s 21 outlets across Tokyo for a plate of Japanese curry paired with Asahi for less than 750 yen (~ SGD $10).
Address:
Tokyo Nishi-Shinjuku, Shinjuku-ku, 1-1-4 Keio Shinjuke Station campus
For more branches, click here!
Tempura is definitely one of the must eats of Japan and Tempura Tendon Tenya is known for its affordable and delicious tempura. Offering their classic One Coin Tendon at a discounted price of 390 yen (~ SGD 6) on the 18th of each month and 500 yen (~ SGD $7) on normal days, Tempura Tendon Tenya is one of the most poplar and cheapest fast food chains in Japan.
For a fancier yet equally well-loved selection of tempura, go for All Star Tendon priced at 720 yen (~ SGD $10). Not exactly pocket-friendly but the dish comes with miso soup to complete your meal, guaranteed to fill your stomach till your next delicious Japanese meal. Think about the money you’ll save from snacking!
Vegetarian? No worries, Tempura Tendon Tenya offers vegetarian options like Vegetable Tendon priced at 520 yen (~SGD 7.20). Pssst, Tempura Tendon Tenya tend to have special deals on their websites so give their page a look before heading over.
Address:
Ginza Store, 〒104-0061 Kusano Building, 3-9-4 Ginza Chuo-ku, Tokyo
For more branches, click here!
Rakugama Seimenjyo, literally meaning “easy pot noodle place”, is a chain restaurant highly recommended by locals and frequent Japan travellers for its tasty affordable udon. Best known for their basic bowl of udon that costs only 280 – 330 yen (~ SGD $4 – $5), Rakugama Seimenjyo is proof you can survive in Tokyo without burning a hole in your pocket!
Rakugama Seimenjyo is usually packed at lunch time so do avoid going then if you don’t have the patience to queue. In our experience, it’s best to head there before 11:30am or after 1:30pm.
Address:
Tokyo Nishi-Shinjuku, Shinjuku-ku, 1-12-6
For more branches, click here!
Another pocket friendly eatery, Unatoto offers grilled unagi dishes at unbelievably cheap prices. The eel, a favourite of diners, is prepared the traditional Japanese way — marinated in a sticky sweet sauce and grilled before being served on a bed of rice. The Unadon (500 yen, ~ SGD $7) and Hitsumagushi (700 yen, ~ SGD $9.50) in Unatoto are equally impressive as well, ticking all the boxes for a great meal.
Address:
Tokyo Nishi-Shinjuku, Shinjuku-ku, 1-25-1 Shinjuku Center Building B1
For more branches, click here!
Opening hours:
Mon to Fri, 11:00 – 23:00, Sat 11:00 – 14:00
Whoever said Japan will burn a huge hole in your pocket surely hasn’t read KKday’s travel guide —these pocket-friendly eateries are perfect for your budget holiday to Tokyo. Who says you can’t enjoy Japan even when you’re on a budget?
We can never have too much of Tokyo, can we? Even when frequent Japan travellers get tired of the typical tourist spots in Tokyo, there’s always a day trip or two out of the city to explore the suburbs of Tokyo, allowing you to see Japan from another perspective. Tokyo‘s transport can be too complex and confusing for travellers — without taking up too much of your time to figure out Japan‘s railway system, KKday brings you five suburbs of Tokyo worth exploring!
1. Kawagoe
Kawagoe, more affectionately known as “Little Edo“, is located in the Saitama Prefecture — just 30 minutes away by train from central Tokyo, making it perfect for a Japan suburbs day trip. The architecture in Kawagoe remains untouched, this quaint little town is exactly the same as it was centuries ago! Fun fact: everyone in town dons their kimonos or yukatas on Kawagoe Kimono Day, which falls on the 18th of every month.
To get to Kawagoe from Tokyo:
Shinjuku to Kawagoe via Saikyō Line
Shibuya to Kawagoe via Tokyo Metro Fukutoshin Line
Kawagoe attractions to check out:
Kumano Shrine, Kawagoe Castle
2. Hakone
Hakone, although a suburb, is a popular sightseeing spot amongst both tourists and locals alike. Located barely an hour away from Tokyo, Hakone is a mountainous area is known for its natural beauty, historical sites, views of Mount Fuji and onsen. Legend has it that you haven’t been to Hakone till you’ve gone to their onsen!
To get to Hakone from Tokyo:
Shinjuku Station to Hakone – Yumoto Station on Romancecars via Odakyu Line
Shinjuku Station to Odawara Station on express train or rapid express via Odakyu Line, then get to Hakone-Yumoto Station via Hakone Tozan Line
For an unobstructed view of Mt. Fuji, head to Kawaguchiko, the best place to view the highest mountain in Japan. Kawaguchiko is also the most accessible of the “Fuji Five Lakes“.
To get to Kawaguchiko from Tokyo:
Shinjuku Station to Otsuki Station on Kaiji train via JR East, then get to Kawaguchiko Station via Fujikyu Line
Shinjuku Station to Takao Station via Chūō Line (Rapid), get to Otsuki Station via JR Chuo Line, then get to Kawaguchikuo station via Fujikyu Line
Contrary to popular belief, Nikko is more than just temples and shrines. Located in Tochigi and nestled high in the mountains, Nikko is surrounded by natural scenery, making it a great escape away from the hustle and bustle of the city. Pssst… The best time to visit this UNESCO World Heritage Site is during autumn, right before the autumn leaves fall.
To get to Nikko from Tokyo:
Tokyo Station to Omiya Station and transfer to Utsunomiya Station via Shinkansen, then get to Nikko via JR Nikko Line
Shinjuku Station to Tobu-Nikko Station via JR Chuo Line
Nikko attractions to check out:
Nikko Sannai, Shinkyo Sacred Bridge, Lake Chuzenji, Ryuzu and Kegon Waterfall
Merely ten minutes away from Tokyo on the Hokuriku Shinkansen, Karuizawa is a mountain resort on the east of Nagano well-loved destination of Japanese and tourists alike. Winter is usually the preferred season to visit Karuizawa for skiing and hot springs but there are plenty of activities all-year round as well, making Karuizawa an ideal short getaway regardless of the season.
To get to Karuizawa from Tokyo:
Shinjuku Station to Karuizawa Station via Hokuriku Shinkansen
Karuizawa attractions to check out:
Kumobaike, Karuizawa Prince Shopping Plaza, Shiraito Falls
Forget the typical “Top 10 Things to Do in Tokyo” guides. No more overhyped Shibuya Crossing or Meiji Shrine that’s populated with tourists — it’s time you head to the suburbs of Tokyo for an unconventional adventure most typical tourists won’t get to experience in Japan!
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