Japan

2026/9/17

Hilton Tokyo Odaiba Japanese Afternoon Tea 2026: Matcha, Sushi & Shaved Ice

We recently visited Hilton Tokyo Odaiba with our editor-in-chief, Mamarin, to try the Japanese Afternoon Tea Set at the hotel’s Japanese restaurant, Sakura. This special afternoon tea has been available on weekends and public holidays since July 18, 2026. With views of the Japanese garden and Tokyo Bay, the experience combines refreshing Japanese sweets with savory dishes prepared by chefs from the restaurant’s tempura, teppanyaki, and sushi counters. It was a beautifully balanced afternoon tea that felt especially suited to summer in Tokyo. What Is the Japanese Afternoon Tea at Hilton Tokyo Odaiba? Hilton Tokyo Odaiba is a luxury hotel in a waterfront location with views of landmarks such as Tokyo Tower and Rainbow Bridge. Inside the hotel, the Japanese restaurant Sakura serves teppanyaki, sushi, tempura, and traditional Japanese cuisine. This Japanese-style afternoon tea was introduced as a limited weekend and holiday offering. Our table was spacious, with plenty of distance between neighboring tables. That made it easy to relax without feeling crowded. The location was another highlight. From the restaurant, we could see Rainbow Bridge and Tokyo Skytree. The open waterfront scenery made the experience feel especially relaxing. Japanese Sweets Inspired by Summer The centerpiece of the afternoon tea is a selection of light and refreshing Japanese sweets. The lineup included warabi mochi, nerikiri inspired by a clear river and ayu sweetfish, black soybean matcha terrine, and a smooth pumpkin and soy milk mousse. Each item was designed to highlight the natural flavor of its ingredients. Matcha Terrine and Soft Mitarashi Dango One of ...

Chiba Japan

2026/10/11

KOKO HOTEL Premier Tokyo Bay Makuhari Review: Public Bath & Breakfast

KOKO HOTEL Premier Tokyo Bay Makuhari opened on June 18, 2026, adding a new hotel option to the Makuhari Bay area in Chiba. We were invited to the hotel’s opening preview and had the opportunity to stay overnight, so this review is based on our actual experience. With convenient access from Kaihin-Makuhari Station, modern guest rooms, a large public bath, sauna and Hawaiian-style breakfast, the hotel works well for travelers visiting Makuhari for events, sightseeing or business. In this review, we take a closer look at the rooms, public bath, breakfast and the details that stood out during our stay. Only 3 Minutes from Kaihin-Makuhari Station KOKO HOTEL Premier Tokyo Bay Makuhari is conveniently located near JR Kaihin-Makuhari Station. It is about a three-minute walk from the station’s South Exit and around one minute from the South Exit of the Park Gate. The location is particularly useful for travelers visiting Makuhari Messe, nearby shopping facilities or other attractions around the Makuhari Bay area. Being close to the station also means less walking with luggage, which we appreciated after a long day. Guest Rooms: Compact, Modern and Functional The guest rooms have a simple, sophisticated design. Our room was relatively compact, but everything was arranged efficiently and it felt comfortable for an overnight stay. One feature we especially liked was that the bathroom and toilet were completely separate. This is much more convenient than a typical unit bathroom, particularly when sharing a room with another person. The bathroom had both a shower and a bathtub, with ...

Japan Nara

2026/9/17

Kashiya Nara: Traditional Wagashi & Nerikiri Near Nara Park

After spending time with the deer at Nara Park, we headed to a traditional Japanese sweets shop that I had wanted to visit for a long time: Kashiya (樫舎). The shop is located not far from Nara Park, in a quiet area of Naramachi lined with traditional Japanese townhouses. Its simple white noren curtain and beautifully restored machiya-style building immediately caught our attention. When we visited, the shop was very popular and there was a line outside. A Highly Regarded Wagashi Shop in Nara Kashiya is a well-known wagashi shop in Nara and has been selected for Tabelog's prestigious Hyakumeiten list. The shop is also known for producing traditional sweets connected with important Nara temples and shrines, including Kasuga Taisha and Yakushiji. Japanese singer-songwriter Masashi Sada has also publicly spoken about his fondness for the shop. Despite its reputation, the atmosphere inside was relaxed and welcoming. The traditional wooden interior had the warmth of an old Japanese townhouse, and the staff were very kind. Both eat-in and takeaway were available during our visit. The Popular Wagashi Course Was Not Available During Our Visit One of the special experiences at Kashiya is its seasonal wagashi tasting course. Unfortunately, the owner was away in Tokyo for an event at Takashimaya when we visited, so the wagashi course was not being served that day. It was a little disappointing, but we had come all this way, so we decided to buy some sweets to take away instead. Beautiful Cherry Blossom Nerikiri We chose this seasonal cherry blossom-colored nerikiri. ...

Nara

2026/9/17

Nara Park Guide from Osaka: Deer, Todaiji Temple & Travel Tips

We traveled from Osaka to Nara by train and finally got to do something we had wanted to try for a long time: feeding the deer at Nara Park. Nara Park is a sightseeing destination that can be enjoyed by visitors of all ages. It is also easy to combine with an Osaka trip, with the journey taking around an hour by train. In this guide, we share what we learned about traveling from Osaka to Nara, feeding the deer safely, toilets, places to take a break, and visiting Todaiji Temple and the Great Buddha. Getting from Shin-Osaka to Nara by Train From Shin-Osaka, the journey to Nara takes around one hour by train. That makes it easy to enjoy both Osaka and Nara during the same trip. We traveled on a public holiday, but the train was not especially crowded and we were able to sit down. The scenery gradually became quieter and more rural as we approached Nara. It was very relaxing. We arrived at JR Nara Station. Coin lockers are available at the station. At the time of our visit, large lockers cost around ¥1,300 and smaller lockers around ¥1,000. Locker prices may change. Women’s Restrooms at JR Nara Station Can Get Busy One practical thing we noticed was that the women’s restroom at JR Nara Station was very crowded. We waited around 15 minutes before getting in. Weekends and public holidays can be busy in Nara, so it is worth allowing extra time. There are restrooms inside Nara Park, but the ...

Japan Osaka

2026/9/17

Courtyard by Marriott Shin-Osaka Review: 1 Minute from the Station

During our trip to Osaka, we stayed at Courtyard by Marriott Shin-Osaka Station. We chose this hotel mainly because of its convenient location for traveling by Shinkansen, and after staying here, our conclusion was simple: it is an extremely convenient and comfortable hotel for travelers using Shin-Osaka Station. Being so close to the station made traveling much easier, especially when carrying luggage. For travelers in their 60s and beyond, reducing the amount of walking between trains and the hotel can make a big difference. Here is our detailed review of the room, bathroom, breakfast buffet and access. Just 1 Minute from Shin-Osaka Station Courtyard by Marriott Shin-Osaka Station is located approximately one minute on foot from JR Shin-Osaka Station. After getting off the Shinkansen, you can reach the hotel almost immediately. That is especially convenient when you have large suitcases, when it is raining, or when you are simply tired after a long journey. For travelers in their 60s and beyond, staying close to the station can make the trip much easier. During our stay, we also noticed many international guests. A Comfortable Marriott Hotel in Shin-Osaka Courtyard by Marriott is part of the Marriott hotel group. The brand is not positioned as ultra-luxury, but it offers comfortable rooms, reliable service and a polished atmosphere. That makes this hotel easy to use for first-time visitors to Osaka, business travelers and tourists who prioritize convenience. Our High-Floor Twin Room We booked a twin room on a higher floor. The room had a calm, simple design with ...

Gunma/Tochigi Japan

2026/9/17

Things to Do Near Ikaho Onsen: Housuiji Temple, Kabiya & Maitake

During our autumn trip to Ikaho Onsen in Gunma Prefecture, we explored several interesting places outside the main hot spring town. After staying at our hotel and walking along Ikaho’s famous Stone Step Street, we visited Housuiji Temple, a nostalgic traditional sweets shop called Kabiya, and the Gunma Maitake Center. These stops added a completely different side to our Ikaho trip, with mountain views, traditional Japanese atmosphere and local Gunma food. ▶ Find hotels in Ikaho Onsen on Rakuten Travel Housuiji Temple: Panoramic Views Near Ikaho Onsen One of the most impressive places we visited near Ikaho was Fo Guang Shan Housuiji Temple. The temple is connected to Fo Guang Shan in Taiwan and is known for its large-scale architecture and elevated location overlooking the surrounding area. It has also attracted attention among Japanese visitors as a filming location associated with the movie Kingdom. The temple sits high above the surrounding landscape, and reaching the main buildings involves climbing a long staircase. If stairs are difficult for you, take your time and use the handrails where available. The view from the top was even better than we expected. From the grounds, you can look out over Shibukawa and the surrounding mountains. We stopped for a while simply to enjoy the scenery. Drinks, Temple Visit and Omikuji There was also a small cafe area during our visit. We bought tapioca milk tea and enjoyed it while looking out over the scenery. A sweet drink with a mountain view made a nice break between sightseeing stops. Visitors ...

Gunma/Tochigi Japan

2026/9/17

Hotel Kogure Ikaho Onsen Review: Ryokan, Hot Springs & Dining

During our autumn trip to Ikaho Onsen in Gunma Prefecture, we stayed at Hotel Kogure, one of the area’s long-established ryokan. For travelers who love Japanese hot springs, this hotel has a lot to offer. We especially enjoyed its spacious rooms, extensive onsen facilities, relaxing footbath, Japanese dinner and generous breakfast buffet. In this review, we share our actual stay at Hotel Kogure, including the room, hot springs, meals and the features we found comfortable for travelers in their 60s and beyond. About Hotel Kogure in Ikaho Onsen Hotel Kogure is one of Ikaho Onsen’s historic ryokan. According to the hotel, its history dates back to 1576, giving it more than 440 years of history. The hotel has long been associated with Ikaho’s famous hot spring source known as Kogane-no-Yu, or the Golden Hot Spring. Despite its long history, the hotel itself felt spacious and comfortable rather than old-fashioned. The lobby, hallways and bathing facilities all have plenty of room, which helped the property feel calm even when other guests were around. During our stay, this sense of space was one of the things we appreciated most. The hotel can also work well for a birthday, anniversary or special trip when you want something a little more luxurious than an ordinary hotel stay. There is a large parking area, and the hotel currently offers pick-up service from the local bus stop for guests using public transportation. :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2} A Spacious Lobby and Welcome Drinks One of the first things that impressed us was how large and ...

Gunma/Tochigi Japan

2026/9/17

Ikaho Onsen Guide: Stone Steps, Ropeway & Mizusawa Udon

We visited Ikaho Onsen in Gunma Prefecture to enjoy the autumn leaves and hot springs. Ikaho is a nostalgic Japanese onsen town famous for its 365 stone steps. In addition to hot springs, visitors can enjoy traditional streets, mountain scenery, local sweets and regional food while exploring at a relaxed pace. In this guide, we share our experience walking through the Stone Step Street, riding the Ikaho Ropeway and trying the famous Mizusawa Udon, along with practical tips we learned during our visit. ▶ Find hotels near the Ikaho Stone Steps on Rakuten Travel Walking Ikaho Onsen’s Famous 365 Stone Steps The Stone Step Street is the symbol of Ikaho Onsen. Even before reaching the main staircase, we could see steam rising nearby, immediately giving the area the atmosphere of a traditional Japanese hot spring town. The staircase has 365 steps, and numbers along the way show how far you have climbed. This photo was taken around step 124. Cafes, pudding shops and souvenir stores line both sides of the staircase, so there are plenty of reasons to stop along the way. Looking back from the steps, we could see the surrounding mountains. The scenery was especially beautiful during autumn. Along the way, we found an unusual spot filled with tiny yellow ducks. It was a fun and unexpected photo spot during our walk. Buying Pudding and Almond Jelly on Stone Step Street After climbing the steps, something sweet felt like the perfect reward. We stopped at Yunohana Pan and bought pudding and almond jelly. ...

Gunma/Tochigi Japan

2026/10/11

Ashikaga Flower Park Illumination 2026–2027: Best Time & Photo Spots

We visited Ashikaga Flower Park in Tochigi Prefecture to enjoy roses and the spectacular winter illumination. Ashikaga Flower Park is famous throughout Japan for its seasonal flower displays and large-scale illumination event. The illuminated gardens feel almost like stepping into another world, and we have been impressed every time we visit. In this guide, we share what we learned from our visit, including why arriving in the late afternoon worked so well and our favorite illumination and photo spots. We also include updated information for the 2026–2027 illumination season. Ashikaga Flower Park Illumination 2026–2027: Dates, Hours and Admission For the 2026–2027 season, Ashikaga Flower Park’s winter illumination “The Garden of Illuminated Flowers” is scheduled to run from October 17, 2026 to February 14, 2027. The current planned night-session information is: Why We Recommend Arriving in the Late Afternoon When we visited, we entered at around 3:30 p.m. This turned out to be a great time to arrive. Many visitors come mainly for the nighttime illumination, so the park felt relatively quiet when we first entered on a weekday. Arriving before sunset gave us time to enjoy the flower gardens in daylight before the illumination began. It also made taking photos easier because there were fewer people around. Benefit 1: Enjoy Flowers Before the Lights Turn On The rose season was nearing its end during our visit, but there were still many different varieties in bloom. Because the park was quieter in the late afternoon, we could look around and take photos without feeling rushed. It ...

Japan Oita

2026/9/16

Ooedo Onsen Monogatari Premium Fugetsu Review: Beppu Onsen, Buffet & Lounge

During our trip to Beppu in Oita, we stayed at Ooedo Onsen Monogatari Premium Fugetsu. As the name suggests, Premium Fugetsu is part of the higher-tier “Premium” line within the Ooedo Onsen Monogatari hotel group. Compared with the standard brand, the Premium line offers upgraded dining, facilities, and a more refined atmosphere. One of the biggest differences we noticed was the buffet. There were more freshly prepared dishes served hot, including live-kitchen items, tempura, grilled dishes and onsen-steamed food. The hotel also offers onsen baths, a spacious lounge, comfortable guest rooms, and both dinner and breakfast buffets. Based on our stay, we felt it offered very good value for the overall experience. In this article, we share our firsthand experience with plenty of photos. What Is Ooedo Onsen Monogatari Premium Fugetsu? Premium Fugetsu belongs to the higher-tier Premium line of Ooedo Onsen Monogatari hotels. The dining experience, facilities, and overall atmosphere are upgraded compared with the standard line. Highlights include: Convenient location for sightseeing around Beppu, including the Beppu Hells Large public baths with an open-air bath Upgraded dinner and breakfast buffets A spacious Premium Lounge It works well as a base for sightseeing and can suit couples, families, multigenerational groups, and older travelers. Choose Your Yukata After Check-In Next to the front desk, there is a yukata selection area where guests can choose what to wear inside the hotel. There were many different patterns and sizes, including options for both adults and children. Being able to choose your favorite design makes the stay feel ...

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