Ootoya: A Taste of Japanese Home Cooking
Tucked away on second floors and modest corners in cities across Japan, Ootoya may not be the flashiest name in the Japanese dining scene—but it’s one of the most comforting.
2025
Hachikō, the loyal hound
One of Tokyo’s most beloved landmarks, the Hachikō Statue stands proudly outside Shibuya Station, honouring Japan’s most loyal dog. This iconic meeting spot attracts visitors…
Pepper Lunch
Pepper Lunch, a popular Japanese fast food chain, has captured the hearts of food lovers worldwide with its unique concept and delicious offerings. Known for…
Ema, Japan’s wooden plaques of wishes and prayers
In the serene precincts of Japan’s Shinto shrines and Buddhist temples, you’ll find an enchanting tradition that bridges the spiritual and the personal: ema. These small wooden plaques, adorned with heartfelt prayers and wishes, offer a unique glimpse into the hopes and dreams of worshippers.
Oden: A Warm Bowl of Japanese Comfort Food
When the air turns crisp and the days grow shorter, Japan’s beloved oden makes its much-anticipated return. This hearty, simmered dish is more than just a meal; it’s a cultural touchstone that evokes the warmth of home and the camaraderie of shared meals. With a rich history, a soothing broth, and a variety of ingredients, oden remains a staple of Japanese cuisine, especially during the colder months.
Royal Host
Japan is home to a fascinating array of food chains, and Royal Host stands out as a beloved institution that has carved its niche as a quintessential “family restaurant,” or *famiresu*.
Yatai: Japan’s Vibrant Food Truck Tradition
Yatai, Japan’s traditional food stalls, offer a unique and nostalgic dining experience steeped in history. These small two-wheel carts are designed to be pushed by a single person through the streets to their designated spots, where an intricate process of unpacking them begins, transforming them into shops sometimes quadruple the size of the cart itself.