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Insights from a Kagurazaka Store Owner


Episode 4: Insights from a Kagurazaka Store Owner – The Seasonal Beauty of the Geisha District and the Grace of Geisha – An Interview with Ayumi Terada, Proprietress of Yukimoto In Tokyo
The Kagurazaka Geisha District Recovered Earlier Than the Other Five Districts in Tokyo This is the fourth installment in our Kagurazaka...


Episode 3: Insights from a Kagurazaka Store Owner – Discover the 400-Year History of Soumaya, a Stationery Store in Tokyo’s Kagurazaka
Exploring Japanese Culture and History Through Stationery Store in Tokyo's Kagurazaka This is the third installment in our series...


Episode 2: Insights from a Kagurazaka Store Owner – The History and Evolution of Toushien Pottery Shop in Tokyo
Kagurazaka Store Owner Interview Series In the second installment of our Kagurazaka store owner Interview series exploring the charm of...


Episode 1: Insights from a Kagurazaka Store Owner – “Japanese Pottery Should Be Held to Be Appreciated” – Exploring Maruoka Toen and the Charm of Ceramics in Tokyo
Kagurazaka Store Owner Interview Series Begins This marks the start of the series " Exploring the Charm of Kagurazaka’s Shopping Street...


Your Guide to the Best Skillcations in Tokyo: Authentic Learning Experiences in the Heart of Japanese Tradition
Tokyo is a city where ancient tradition and modern life blend seamlessly. But beyond the famous landmarks and bustling districts, there is a quieter, deeper Japan—one you can truly learn from. In recent years, a new style of travel has captured the attention of thoughtful travelers around the world: Skillcation — a journey where you learn a meaningful skill that stays with you long after the trip is over. This guide introduces Tokyo’s most refined Skillcation experiences, c
Shinya Yamada
Dec 12, 20254 min read


Best Things to Do in Tokyo in December — A Complete Guide to Winter Beauty, Culture, and Quiet Moments in Kagurazaka
December in Japan is a season of clear winter skies, crisp air, cultural depth, and a quiet elegance that cannot be found at any other time of year. For travelers seeking authenticity, refined cultural immersion, and a deeper sense of place, December offers some of the most memorable things to do in Tokyo in December—especially when explored through the warm glow of tradition in Kagurazaka. This guide introduces the winter climate, seasonal customs, festive atmosphere, and th
Shinya Yamada
Nov 27, 20256 min read


Japan Seasons Calendar: Encyclopedia of the 72 Microseasons
What Is the Japan Seasons Calendar? The Japan Seasons Calendar is not just a way of marking time—it is a poetic encyclopedia of nature...
Shinya Yamada
Sep 24, 20256 min read
![Japanese Summer Foods: The Ultimate Guide to Tokyo's Cooling Cuisine [2025 Edition]](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/983a60_3191d8592e6e4536902afad6e082a09b~mv2.jpg/v1/fill/w_333,h_250,fp_0.50_0.50,q_30,blur_30,enc_avif,quality_auto/983a60_3191d8592e6e4536902afad6e082a09b~mv2.webp)
![Japanese Summer Foods: The Ultimate Guide to Tokyo's Cooling Cuisine [2025 Edition]](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/983a60_3191d8592e6e4536902afad6e082a09b~mv2.jpg/v1/fill/w_454,h_341,fp_0.50_0.50,q_90,enc_avif,quality_auto/983a60_3191d8592e6e4536902afad6e082a09b~mv2.webp)
Japanese Summer Foods: The Ultimate Guide to Tokyo's Cooling Cuisine [2025 Edition]
What comes to mind when you think of summer food? For me, it's always been somen noodles and watermelon. Some of my most cherished childhood memories are of family gatherings centered around these two things: trying to catch noodles as they flowed down a bamboo slide, and the chaotic fun of suika-wari (watermelon splitting). In Japan, it's precisely because the summer is so hot that we have these foods that create such lasting, joyful memories. This guide is your invitation t
Shinya Yamada
Jul 26, 20257 min read


Japan and Tokyo Travel in July – Part 4: Stay Safe from the Summer Heat — Enjoy the Best Traditional Cultural Experiences in Cool Indoor Spaces
Japan’s July is no joke when it comes to heat. As mentioned in Part 1 of this series, Japan and Tokyo Travel in July , it is the second hottest and most humid month of the year . If you're planning a trip to Tokyo in July, we strongly recommend limiting outdoor activities . This is especially important when attending outdoor summer matsuri festivals , which require extra caution due to the extreme heat and humidity. Instead, we highly recommend spending your time enjoying tr
Shinya Yamada
Jun 28, 20254 min read


Japan and Tokyo Travel in July – Part 2: What to Eat – The Gourmet Guide to Seasonal Japanese Seafood, Fruits, and Wagashi (Traditional Sweets)
How Seasonal Japanese Food Enhances Your Cultural Journey Through Japan In this second installment of our " Japan and Tokyo Travel in July " series, we explore one of the most anticipated aspects of travel: food. July brings with it a host of seasonal culinary delights—from fresh seafood and succulent fruits to elegant wagashi (traditional Japanese sweets)—that offer a taste of summer across Japan. Japan is a culinary paradise, drawing food lovers from around the world. Acc
Shinya Yamada
Jun 26, 20257 min read


Is the Tea Ceremony Becoming Out of Reach? The Soaring Price of Matcha and Its Structural Impact on the World of Tea
“My usual matcha is now twice the price...” — Growing Concern Among Tea Ceremony Practitioners Matcha that once seemed readily available...
Shinya Yamada
Jun 22, 20254 min read


A Tofu Story from Kagurazaka: Where the Earth Meets the Sea in Tokyo’s Hidden Culinary Quarter
Tofu in Every Season: The Humble Star of Japanese Home Cooking I love tofu. Perhaps you do too? From silken hiyayakko on a hot summer...
Shinya Yamada
Jun 20, 20253 min read


Our Authentic Traditional Cultural Experiences in Tokyo Highly Praised by Event Service Inc., a Pioneer in Japan’s MICE and Business Events Sector
A Privilege to Be Recognized by One of Japan’s Leading MICE Professionals We recently had the honor of visiting Event Service Inc. , a...
Shinya Yamada
Apr 21, 20252 min read


Would You Like to Enjoy Both Wagashi-Making and the Tea Ceremony While Discovering the Spirit of Wabi-Sabi?
Why You Need Both Wagashi and the Tea Ceremony to Truly Understand Wabi-Sabi For many international visitors to Japan, the tea ceremony...
Shinya Yamada
Apr 1, 20254 min read


Notice of Parfait Class Termination
Parfait Class Termination Dear Valued Customers, Thank you very much for your continued support. We regret to inform you that we will be...
Shinya Yamada
Feb 25, 20251 min read


Introducing Authentic Udon & Sushi Workshop: Make Tempura Udon and Sushi Rolls
Are You Interested in the Authentic Udon & Sushi Workshop? Washoku, recognized as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage, is deeply rooted...
Shinya Yamada
Feb 16, 20252 min read


15 Authentic Traditional Cultural Experiences in Tokyo: No.12 Tofu Workshop
Tofu Workshop: A Must-Try from Our Authentic Traditional Cultural Experiences in Tokyo This is the 12th installment of our "Authentic...
Shinya Yamada
Dec 27, 20243 min read


December Parfait Announcement: Celebrate Christmas with a Special Seasonal Dessert in Kagurazaka, Tokyo
Discover the Flavors of Christmas Dessert in Tokyo: Seasonal Parfait Experience in Kagurazaka Hidden away in the charming neighborhood of...
Shinya Yamada
Dec 12, 20242 min read


15 Authentic Traditional Cultural Experiences in Tokyo: No. 11 Wagashi (Japanese Sweets) Workshop
Discover the Art of Wagashi: Authentic Traditional Cultural Experiences in Tokyo with Unmatched Guest Satisfaction Welcome to the 11th...
Shinya Yamada
Nov 30, 20243 min read


Only 10 Days Left Until "Doon to Fukui in Kagurazaka: Echizen-Wakasa Festival 2024" in Tokyo!
Discover Fukui in Tokyo – Celebrate Culture, Cuisine, and Tradition at the "Doon to Fukui in Kagurazaka: Echizen-Wakasa Festival 2024"! On November 23 (Sat, public holiday) and November 24 (Sun), 2024, the " Doon to Fukui in Kagurazaka (Experience Fukui in Kagurazaka): Echizen-Wakasa Festival " will be held in Kagurazaka, Tokyo’s Shinjuku Ward. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities, including tasting Fukui specialties, purchasing local products, and joining in fun quizze
Shinya Yamada
Nov 13, 20243 min read


November’s Parfait at "Couches de bonheur" in Tokyo's Kagurazaka - A Seasonal Delight of Sweet Potato and Apple
Experience the Seasonal Parfait: Sweet Potato and Apple Delight at "Couches de bonheur" The November parfait at the hidden gem " Couches...
Shinya Yamada
Nov 10, 20242 min read


UNESCO Recommends “Traditional Japanese Sake Brewing” for Intangible Cultural Heritage Listing – See the List of Japan’s 22 Intangible Cultural Heritage Items
UNESCO and Japan’s Heritage: The Cultural Significance of Traditional Japanese Sake Brewing Techniques On November 5, Japan’s Agency for...
Shinya Yamada
Nov 6, 20243 min read


The Samurai Tea Ceremony School "Enshu-ryu" is Based in Tokyo’s Kagurazaka. Learn about the tea ceremony in the heart of Samurai Town, Kagurazaka!
Discover the Enshu-ryu "Samurai" Tea Ceremony at the Machitobi Festa in Kagurazaka As part of the " Kagurazaka Machitobi Festa ," held...
Shinya Yamada
Oct 22, 20243 min read


Understanding Dashi in Tokyo: The Source of Umami and the Key to Washoku (Japanese Cuisine)
Have you ever heard of " Dashi ," the secret to the deliciousness of Japanese cuisine? While many may be familiar with the word, fewer...
Shinya Yamada
Oct 17, 20243 min read
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