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Category: Japan Travel

  • Discovering the Hidden Gems of Kyoto: A Guide to Off-the-Beaten-Path Adventures

    Discovering the Hidden Gems of Kyoto: A Guide to Off-the-Beaten-Path Adventures

    Kyoto is a city that truly captures the essence of traditional Japan, with its centuries-old temples, picturesque gardens, and charming streets. But beyond the well-trodden tourist path lies a world of hidden gems, waiting to be discovered by the intrepid traveler. In this post, we’ll take you on a journey through some of Kyoto’s off-the-beaten-path destinations, from secret gardens to atmospheric neighborhoods.

    One of the first stops on our journey is the Sanjusangendo Temple, located in the eastern part of the city. This ancient temple, built in the 12th century, is home to an impressive collection of 1,001 statues of the Buddhist goddess Kannon, each one uniquely crafted and exquisitely detailed. The temple’s main hall is an awe-inspiring sight, with rows upon rows of these statues stretching out before you.

    Moving on from the temple, we’ll take a stroll through the historic Higashiyama district, where you’ll feel like you’ve stepped back in time to the days of the samurai. This area is full of narrow streets lined with traditional wooden houses, as well as small shops and restaurants selling all manner of local treats. Don’t miss the chance to try some traditional Kyoto sweets, like yatsuhashi or mochi, which are sure to tantalize your taste buds.

    As we continue our journey, we’ll make a stop at the Tofuku-ji Temple, a hidden gem that’s often overlooked by tourists. This Zen temple is renowned for its stunning autumn foliage, which blankets the grounds in a riot of red and gold each year. But even outside of autumn, Tofuku-ji is a tranquil oasis of calm, with its serene gardens and peaceful atmosphere.

    Our final stop on this off-the-beaten-path adventure is the Nishiki Market, a bustling covered market that’s been around for centuries. Here, you’ll find everything from fresh seafood and local vegetables to traditional crafts and souvenirs. Be sure to try some of the market’s famous street food, like takoyaki (octopus balls) or grilled mochi skewers.

    In conclusion, Kyoto is a city that’s full of surprises, with hidden gems around every corner. By venturing off the beaten path, you’ll discover a side of Kyoto that’s rich in culture, history, and charm. So why not step outside your comfort zone and explore the unknown? You never know what treasures you might uncover.

  • Dorayaki in Tokyo

    Dorayaki in Tokyo

    Dorayaki is a popular Japanese sweet that is loved by many, and Tokyo is no exception when it comes to its availability. You can find dorayaki in many different locations throughout the city, from small street vendors to larger stores.

    Some popular places to find dorayaki in Tokyo include convenience stores such as 7-Eleven, Lawson, and Family Mart, which offer pre-packaged dorayaki for a reasonable price. You can also find them at traditional Japanese sweets shops like Usagiya in Yanaka and Kameya in Asakusa, which are famous for their delicious dorayaki with various fillings.

    In addition, some cafes and bakeries in Tokyo have started to offer their own unique versions of dorayaki, with fillings such as matcha cream, chocolate ganache, and even fruit.

    The prices of dorayaki in Tokyo can vary depending on the location and the type of dorayaki you choose. On average, pre-packaged dorayaki can range from 100 to 200 yen, while freshly made dorayaki at traditional shops may cost more. However, the taste and quality of dorayaki in Tokyo is definitely worth the price for any sweet tooth looking to try this delicious Japanese treat.

    Video about Dorayaki recipe
  • Dorayaki price

    Dorayaki price

    The price of dorayaki can vary depending on the location and the shop where it is sold. In general, the price ranges from 100 to 200 yen per piece. Some shops may offer higher-end dorayaki with premium ingredients, which can be more expensive. It’s also worth noting that dorayaki may be sold in packs or sets, which can affect the overall price.

  • Dorayaki in Japan

    Dorayaki is a popular Japanese sweet that has been enjoyed for centuries. This delectable dessert consists of two fluffy pancakes made from sweet castella batter and filled with a sweet filling such as anko (sweet red bean paste) or chestnut cream. Dorayaki is often enjoyed as a snack or dessert and can be found in many different stores and bakeries throughout Japan.

    One of the most famous places to enjoy dorayaki is at Usagiya, a long-standing dorayaki specialty shop in Tokyo’s Yanaka district. The shop has been making dorayaki for over 100 years and is renowned for its soft and fluffy pancakes and rich, smooth anko filling.

    Other popular places to find dorayaki include convenience stores, supermarkets, and even vending machines. Many stores offer different types of fillings such as matcha cream, custard cream, or even seasonal flavors like sweet potato or strawberry.

    If you’re interested in making your own dorayaki, it’s a relatively simple process. All you need is some castella batter, sweet filling, and a frying pan. To make the pancakes, you simply cook the batter on both sides until golden brown, then add the filling and sandwich the two pancakes together.

    Overall, dorayaki is a beloved and iconic sweet in Japan that offers a delicious and satisfying taste of traditional Japanese flavors.

  • Dorayaki fillings

    Dorayaki is a popular Japanese confection that consists of two small pancake-like patties made from sweetened batter, with a filling sandwiched in between. The filling can vary, but typically includes a sweet red bean paste called “anko” or “azuki.” However, there are also many other delicious fillings that can be used to create a unique and tasty dorayaki experience.

    One popular filling is “matcha cream,” which is made from sweetened whipped cream blended with high-quality matcha powder. Another popular option is “custard cream,” a sweet and creamy filling made from egg yolks, milk, sugar, and cornstarch. “Chocolate cream” is also a favorite, made from melted chocolate and heavy cream.

    For those who enjoy fruit flavors, “strawberry cream” is a delicious option. It is made from sweetened whipped cream blended with fresh strawberry puree. “Chestnut cream” is another popular filling, made from sweetened chestnut paste mixed with whipped cream.

    Dorayaki can be found in many Japanese sweet shops and supermarkets. Some famous places to buy dorayaki include Usagiya in Tokyo and Kamo Kyoya in Kyoto. Alternatively, dorayaki can also be made at home using a simple batter recipe and your favorite filling.

  • Dorayaki vs Tayaki

    Dorayaki and Taiyaki are two popular Japanese sweets that are often compared and contrasted with each other. While both are made of a pancake-like batter and filled with sweet fillings, there are some notable differences between the two.

    Dorayaki is a round, pancake-like cake that is traditionally filled with sweet red bean paste (anko). The batter is made of flour, eggs, sugar, and mirin, which is a type of sweet rice wine. The pancakes are cooked on a griddle, and then two of them are sandwiched together with the filling in between. Dorayaki is often enjoyed as a snack or dessert and can be found in many Japanese bakeries and supermarkets.

    Taiyaki, on the other hand, is a fish-shaped pastry that is also made of a pancake-like batter. The batter is poured into a fish-shaped mold, and then filled with sweet fillings such as red bean paste, custard, or chocolate. Taiyaki is cooked on a griddle and is often enjoyed as a street food snack in Japan.

    While both Dorayaki and Taiyaki are delicious Japanese sweets, they have their own unique flavors and textures. Dorayaki has a soft, fluffy texture with a sweet, slightly earthy flavor from the anko filling. Taiyaki, on the other hand, has a crispy exterior with a soft, fluffy interior and a sweet filling that can range from rich custard to sweet red bean paste or chocolate.

    If you’re interested in trying these delicious Japanese sweets, you can find Dorayaki at most Japanese bakeries and supermarkets, while Taiyaki is often sold as a street food snack from vendors or at festivals. Alternatively, you can also make them at home using a traditional Japanese recipe.

  • Dorayaki – How is made

    Dorayaki – How is made

    Dorayaki is a popular Japanese confection that consists of two fluffy pancakes sandwiched together with a sweet red bean paste filling. This beloved snack has been enjoyed in Japan for generations and is now enjoyed around the world.

    To make your own dorayaki at home, you will need the following ingredients:

    • 2 eggs
    • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
    • 1 teaspoon honey
    • 1 teaspoon baking powder
    • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
    • 1 cup all-purpose flour
    • 1/2 cup water
    • Sweetened red bean paste

    Instructions:

    1. In a mixing bowl, beat the eggs and sugar together until they become light and fluffy.
    2. Add the honey, baking powder, and vanilla extract to the mixture, and stir until well combined.
    3. Slowly add the flour to the mixture, alternating with the water, and stir until the batter becomes smooth.
    4. Heat a non-stick pan over medium heat and lightly grease it with vegetable oil or butter.
    5. Pour a small amount of the batter onto the pan to make a 3-4 inch pancake.
    6. Cook until bubbles form on the surface of the pancake, then flip it over and cook for an additional 30 seconds.
    7. Repeat until all the batter is used up.
    8. Allow the pancakes to cool, then sandwich a spoonful of sweetened red bean paste between two pancakes.

    If you prefer to buy dorayaki instead of making it yourself, you can find it at many Japanese grocery stores or Asian markets. Some popular brands include Meiji, Fujiya, and Glico. You can also find dorayaki at some Japanese restaurants and cafes. Whether you make it yourself or buy it pre-made, dorayaki is a delicious and unique treat that is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.

  • Ueno

    Ueno

    Ueno is a vibrant neighborhood in Tokyo that’s known for its rich history, beautiful parks, and bustling markets. If you’re planning a visit to Tokyo, Ueno should be at the top of your list of places to see. In this guide, we’ll take you through some of the best things to do in Ueno and the top attractions to visit.

    1. Ueno Park Ueno Park is one of Tokyo’s most beautiful parks and is home to many of its best museums and attractions. The park is famous for its beautiful cherry blossom trees, which bloom in the spring, and its many ponds and walking paths. You can also visit several museums in the park, including the Tokyo National Museum, the National Museum of Nature and Science, and the Shitamachi Museum.
    2. Ueno Zoo Ueno Zoo is one of Japan’s oldest and most famous zoos and is located inside Ueno Park. The zoo is home to over 500 species of animals, including giant pandas, lions, tigers, and elephants. The zoo also has a beautiful botanical garden and an insectarium.
    3. Ameyoko Market Ameyoko Market is a bustling and vibrant market that’s located near Ueno Station. The market is famous for its lively atmosphere, where vendors shout out their wares and customers haggle for the best prices. You can find everything from fresh seafood to clothing and souvenirs at the market.
    4. Kaneiji Temple Kaneiji Temple is a beautiful and historic temple that’s located in Ueno Park. The temple was built in 1625 and is famous for its beautiful gardens and traditional architecture. You can also visit the temple’s cemetery, which is the final resting place of many famous Japanese samurai and politicians.
    5. Shinobazu Pond Shinobazu Pond is a beautiful and serene pond that’s located in Ueno Park. The pond is famous for its beautiful lotus flowers, which bloom in the summer, and its many bird species. You can also rent a paddleboat and explore the pond from the water.

    In conclusion, Ueno is a must-visit neighborhood in Tokyo with many attractions to see and things to do. From the beautiful Ueno Park and its many museums to the lively Ameyoko Market and historic Kaneiji Temple, Ueno has something for everyone. By visiting these locations and following these tips, you can experience the best of Ueno and create unforgettable memories in Tokyo.

    Video about Ueno
    ueno shop district in tokyo – photo courtesy by Giorgio Profili
  • Hanami

    Hanami

    Hanami, also known as “flower viewing,” is a traditional Japanese activity that involves enjoying the beauty of cherry blossoms (sakura) in springtime. Cherry blossoms are an iconic symbol of Japan and are deeply tied to the country’s culture and history. They bloom for a short period each year, usually in late March or early April, and are celebrated throughout the country.

    During hanami season, people flock to parks, gardens, and other outdoor spaces to view the cherry blossoms and spend time with friends and family. Many people bring picnics and enjoy food and drink under the cherry blossom trees. Hanami parties are a popular way to celebrate the arrival of spring and the beauty of the cherry blossoms.

    Hanami is more than just a way to appreciate the beauty of the cherry blossoms. It is also a time to celebrate the arrival of spring and the changing of the seasons. It is a time to come together with friends and family and to appreciate the simple joys of life. Hanami is an important and much-loved tradition in Japan, and it is a must-see experience for anyone visiting the country during cherry blossom season.

    Sakura flower tree in kawazu japan
    Fuji Reien Cemetery, Shizuoka, Japan in spring.
    Hanami Video in Tokyo
  • Keikyu Railways

    Keikyu Railways

    Keikyu Railways is a private railway company in Japan that operates a network of lines in the Greater Tokyo area. The company was founded in 1948 and is headquartered in Yokohama. It is one of the major railway operators in the Tokyo metropolitan area, along with Tokyo Metro, Toei Subway, and JR East.

    Keikyu Railways operates a number of lines, including the Keikyu Main Line, which runs from Haneda Airport to Yokohama and Yokosuka, and the Keikyu Airport Line, which connects Haneda Airport with central Tokyo. The company also operates the Shonan Monorail and the Keikyu Daishi Line.

    To use Keikyu Railways, you will need to purchase a ticket or a prepaid transportation card, such as a Pasmo or Suica card. These cards can be used on all Keikyu lines as well as on other trains, buses, and subways in the Tokyo area. Tickets can be purchased at ticket machines or ticket counters at Keikyu stations.

    Keikyu Railways also offers a number of passes and discount tickets for tourists, including the Keikyu Tourist Pass, which allows unlimited travel on all Keikyu lines for a set period of time. The pass is available in 1-day, 2-day, and 3-day versions, and is a convenient and cost-effective way to explore the Greater Tokyo area by train.

    curious asian Chinese girl passenger leaning out from car and looking into distance while waiting for the green train to depart at platform of uji station in Kyoto japan
    Video About Keikyu Line