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Category: City Guide

  • The Ultimate First-Timer’s Guide to Tokyo (A 5-Day Itinerary)

    The Ultimate First-Timer’s Guide to Tokyo (A 5-Day Itinerary)

    Quick Summary: Neon skylines, peaceful shrines, matcha breaks, and a few perfectly marbled wagyu moments. This 5-day Tokyo plan balances icons (Shibuya, Skytree, Sensō-ji) with the little things that make the city unforgettable (alleyway yakitori, hidden cafés, and a detour for watch lovers).

    Good to know: Tokyo is wonderfully walkable in segments, but you’ll rely on trains. Grab an IC card (Suica/PASMO), wear comfortable shoes, and book popular restaurants ahead where possible.

    Day 1 — Shibuya, Imperial Palace, and First Bites

    Morning: Shibuya Crossing & Hachiko

    Is it the world’s busiest crossing? Maybe. Honest take: a bit underwhelming in person, and about half the people are tourists walking back and forth for photos. For a view from above, try the Starbucks on the north end (busy, yes). Don’t miss the Hachiko Statue, and wander the streets north of the crossing for shopping and snacks. We made an obligatory stop at Blue Bottle Shibuya – one of the nicest locations we’ve visited.

    Midday: Imperial Palace area

    Stroll the grounds and moat views around the Imperial Palace. The inner grounds are generally closed, but during special openings (and sometimes cherry blossom season) you can get inside. Even from the outside, it’s a calm counterpoint to Shibuya.

    Evening: Ichiran (Shibuya/Shinjuku)

    Iconic solo-booth ramen, fast and fun if jet lag hits. Can be found anywhere so its ideal to start with.

    Day 2 — Meiji Jingu, Asakusa & Wagyu Night

    Morning: Meiji Jingu

    Set in a vast park, Meiji Jingu is one of the most serene places we visited—tall torii gates, dappled light, and a peaceful forest walk that feels miles from the city.

    Midday: Sensō-ji & Kitchen Street

    Head to Asakusa for Sensō-ji—lanterns, Nakamise shopping street, and classic snacks. Nearby Kitchen Street(Kappabashi-dori) is heaven for food lovers: knives, ceramics, and every tool you never knew you needed.

    Evening: Matsuzakagyu Yoshida (Wagyu dinner)

    If you love steak, this is the moment. Kobe is the headliner, but Matsusaka and Ōmi are just as good—sometimes better. We chose Matsuzakagyu Yoshida, a formal restaurant high up in a skyscraper with skyline views. You pick your style: teppanyaki, shabu-shabu, or sukiyaki. The meat was deeply flavorful and melt-on-your-tongue soft. If you can, experience all three styles somewhere during your trip.

    Day 3 — Ueno to Skytree on Foot (Matcha & Views)

    Morning: Ueno Park

    Museums, markets, ponds – Ueno Park is ideal for a slow start (and cherry blossoms in season). If you want to get your steps in, use Ueno as the start of a one-hour walk toward Skytree, collecting little neighborhoods as you go.

    Mid-route: Hatoya Asakusa (Matcha stop)

    Hatoya Asakusa is a lovely pause for matcha desserts and tea. Expect a line at busy hours—worth the wait.

    Afternoon: Tokyo Skytree

    One of the tallest structures in the world and a masterclass in earthquake engineering. There are two observation levels—we recommend booking both: the top level is less crowded and the views are noticeably better. Clear days may reveal Mount Fuji. If you’re early for your slot, there’s a bagel place across the street that’s perfect for a quick bite.

    Note: The elevator to the upper deck has glass features—heads-up if heights make you queasy.

    Evening: Tsukiji Fish Market area

    The original market moved, but Tsukiji still delivers big on fresh seafood. We stopped for a quick sushi bite—an easy, satisfying dinner option after a long walking day.

    Day 4 — Ginza, Azabudai Hills & a Wagyu Burger

    Morning: Ginza

    High-end shopping boulevards and department stores that feel more US-urban than the rest of Tokyo. Polished, structured, and perfect for window-shopping (or the real thing).

    Midday: Buvette

    We first loved Buvette in New York and found the Tokyo outpost while walking from Ginza toward the Palace. It’s Western cuisine—not a place for Japanese flavors—but it’s a cozy, reliable stop for coffee and a bite. We still prefer the NY location, but this one is worth a visit if you’re nearby.

    Afternoon: Azabudai Hills (+ Tokyo Tower nearby)

    A newly developed district that blends upscale living, artful public spaces, and luxury retail. Tokyo Tower is just around the corner for that classic red-and-white skyline moment.

    Evening: Shogun Burger

    Wagyu… as a burger. We couldn’t resist. There’s a Shogun Burger right in Azabudai Hills and it was absolutely worth it. How often do you get a wagyu burger done this well? Go once – minimum.

    Day 5 — Watches, Nakano Broadway & Night Alleys

    Morning: Watches & Luxury (Ginza or Nakano Broadway)

    If you’re a watch enthusiast, Tokyo is a playground. Nakano Broadway is packed with specialty stores and rare finds—just know that dealers usually price to global markets, so “steals” are rare even after the 10% tax-free calculation. I’ll publish a dedicated Tokyo Watch-Hunting Guide soon with shop recs and buying tips.

    Afternoon: Omoide Yokocho (Memory Lane)

    Near Shinjuku Station, this narrow alley of tiny yakitori stands and bars is pure atmosphere—neon reflections, sizzling skewers, and the unmistakable hum of Tokyo nights. Stroll it even if you don’t stop to eat.

    Optional: Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden

    A beautiful garden with a greenhouse and excellent cherry blossom viewing in season. There’s an entrance fee, but it’s one of the city’s best green escapes.

    Dinner: Your choice

    Round out the trip with whatever you loved most—ramen, sushi, or another wagyu moment. Celebrate a city that somehow does both giant-scale and small-scale human warmth in the same breath.

    Practical Tips for First-Timers

    • Transport: IC cards (Suica/PASMO) work across trains, subways, and many buses. Top up at machines; keep one per person.
    • Cash vs Cards: Cards are increasingly accepted, but cash is still handy for smaller eateries and shrines. 7-Eleven ATMs are everywhere.
    • Reservations: Book wagyu and high-demand sushi ahead. Casual izakaya: walk-ins often fine.
    • Cherry Blossom Season: Beautiful but busy. Hotels pricier, queues longer. If blossoms aren’t a priority, consider shoulder seasons.
    • Pacing: Tokyo has multiple “centers.” Plan days by clusters (e.g., Shibuya/Harajuku; Asakusa/Skytree; Ginza/Palace; Shinjuku/Azabudai) to minimize transit time.
    • Coffee Breaks: Blue Bottle and local kissaten both shine – build in 15-minute resets to keep energy up.
  • First Bites of the Windy City: A 5-Day Chicago Itinerary for Foodies

    First Bites of the Windy City: A 5-Day Chicago Itinerary for Foodies

    This was our first time in Chicago, and we were determined to make the most of it. We crafted this 5 day Chicago itinerary for foodies to dive headfirst into the city’s incredible food scene while still hitting the iconic sights. Known for its jaw-dropping architecture and legendary deep-dish pizza, the Windy City did not disappoint. Here’s a look at our adventure, filled with the tips and must-eats that made our trip unforgettable.

    Where We Stayed: Riu Plaza Hotel

    We checked into the Riu Plaza Hotel, which had just opened when we arrived. The rooms were modern and stylish, but there were a few teething problems you’d expect from a brand-new hotel. On our first night, the staff was happy to bring us water, but the next day, we were told this service wasn’t available at all—a minor service inconsistency.

    The absolute highlight was the rooftop terrace. It offered stunning, panoramic views of the skyline and was the perfect spot to enjoy a cocktail and soak in the city’s energy. While the busy breakfast was standard, the hotel’s prime location made it an excellent base for our explorations, easily justifying the rating. Being able to walk to so many central sights was a huge plus.

    Overall ★★★½☆ (3.5/5)

    Must-Do Chicago Experiences

    River Architecture Tour

    You’ll find this in every Chicago guide for a reason—it’s simply the best way to see the city. Cruising down the Chicago River while a guide points out architectural marvels like the neo-Gothic Tribune Tower and the corn-cob-shaped Marina City towers is a truly captivating experience. You gain a deep appreciation for the history and design that make Chicago’s skyline one of the most famous in the world. This is an absolute must.

    A Day at the Ballpark: Wrigley Field

    We caught a Chicago Cubs game at the legendary Wrigley Field, and the experience was pure Americana. Opened in 1914, it’s one of the oldest ballparks in the nation, and you can feel the history. From its iconic ivy-covered outfield walls to the manual scoreboard, it’s a trip back in time. The atmosphere was electric. We grabbed a classic hot dog and a helmet-shaped ice cream cup. We booked seats in the upper ranks, which offered a fantastic view and were great value.

    The Classic City Walk: Parks, Piers & The Bean

    For a great look at the skyline, head to the pier at North Avenue Beach. From there, enjoy a scenic walk through Lincoln Park down to Millennium Park. Here you’ll find the famous Cloud Gate, affectionately known as “The Bean.” Designed by artist Anish Kapoor, its seamless, reflective surface distorts the city skyline in fascinating ways, making it an irresistible photo op.

    Continue your stroll to the magnificent Buckingham Memorial Fountain, one of the largest fountains in the world. It’s another perfect spot for photos, with the grand fountain in the foreground and the city skyline rising behind it.

    Museum Hopping

    • Field Museum: An impressive natural history museum where you can come face-to-face with “SUE,” the world’s largest and most complete T. Rex skeleton. The exhibits on ancient Egypt and Native American history are also fantastic.
    • Griffin Museum of Science and Industry: As a tech fan, I loved this museum. We caught a special 007 exhibition, but the permanent exhibits, like the U-505 submarine, are incredible. While you’re there, take a walk around the beautiful University of Chicago campus.
    • Sears (Willis) Tower: For a bird’s-eye view, head up the Willis Tower. If you’re brave enough, step onto The Ledge—glass boxes that extend from the 103rd floor, allowing you to look straight down 412 meters (1353 feet) to the street below.

    A Note on the City Pass: We’re usually skeptical, but in Chicago, it was a fantastic deal. We planned which sights we wanted to see first, did the math, and found that the pass saved us money. It also let us skip the long queues at places like the Willis Tower, which was a huge time-saver.

    Logan Square Farmers Market

    If you want to escape the downtown buzz and experience a more local, suburban vibe, head to Logan Square. We visited during the farmers market, and it was a delight. It’s not huge, but it’s packed with charming stalls selling everything from fresh coffee and local honey to artisanal cheeses and baked goods.

    Chicago Eats: A Deep Dive into the City’s Best Flavors

    The food in Chicago is a journey in itself. Here are the spots from our 5 day Chicago itinerary for foodies that we’re still dreaming about.

    Breakfast & Coffee

    • Ralph’s Coffee: A perfect, stylish stop for a robust cup of coffee. Located inside the Ralph Lauren store on Michigan Avenue, it’s a little oasis of classic American elegance. You can combine it with a browse through the store for the full brand experience.
    • Magnolia Bakery: It’s hardly a secret, thanks in part to its fame from Sex and the City, but you can’t leave Chicago without trying their famous banana pudding. It’s a heavenly mix of vanilla wafers, fresh bananas, and creamy vanilla pudding. It absolutely lives up to the hype.
    • Nutella Store: A fun, quirky spot we stumbled upon on Michigan Avenue. It’s a novelty cafe dedicated entirely to the chocolate-hazelnut spread, with Nutella-filled crepes, gelato, and coffee. More for the experience than a gourmet meal, but a fun stop nonetheless.

    Best Bagels: Tilly Bagel Shop

    We’re always on the hunt for great bagels, a quest we take seriously on our travels. Tilly Bagel Shop in the South Loop was a fantastic find. They serve up hand-rolled, boiled, and baked bagels that have the perfect chew. We grabbed an everything bagel with scallion cream cheese and a sesame with lox on our way to the Museum Campus, and it was the perfect fuel for a day of exploring.

    Lunch & Dinner: The Heavy Hitters

    Au Cheval: This isn’t just a diner; it’s a pilgrimage site for burger lovers. The dimly lit, hip atmosphere sets the stage for what is, without exaggeration, one of the best burgers we’ve ever had. We ordered the double cheeseburger, which comes with three patties (a single has two), sharp American cheese, dijonnaise, and pickles, and we added the thick-cut peppered bacon. Be prepared to wait—we waited two hours, which we used to explore the West Loop. The reward is a perfectly seared, incredibly juicy burger that is worth every single minute of the wait.

    Pizza and Oven Grinder Co.: My favorite meal in Chicago, hands down. Tucked away in a historic brownstone in Lincoln Park, this cash-only spot is famous for one thing: the Pizza Pot Pie. They build the pizza upside down in a ceramic bowl—piled with cheese, homemade sausage, and mushrooms—cover it with dough, and bake it. The server flips it at your table, revealing a glorious, gooey, and utterly delicious creation. It’s pure, unforgettable comfort food. 10/10, would go back in a heartbeat.

    RL Restaurant: The restaurant counterpart to the coffee shop is just as stylish. We sat at the bar, enjoying fantastic cocktails and a delicious dinner in the sophisticated, buzzy atmosphere. The food and cocktails were both amazing.

    Labriola Ristorante: You can’t visit Chicago without trying its most famous culinary invention, the deep-dish pizza. We went to Labriola for our taste of this beast. The crust is thick and high, creating a deep bowl that’s filled with layers of cheese (on the bottom!), toppings, and a rich, chunky tomato sauce on top. It’s less like a pizza and more like a savory pie. One slice is often enough to fill you up!

    Velvet Taco: We stumbled upon this vibrant, modern taco joint and were blown away by the creativity. This isn’t your standard taco stand. Their globally-inspired menu features combinations like the Spicy Tikka Chicken, Korean Fried Rice, and the Fish n’ Chips taco. It was a delicious and unexpected find.

    The Chicago-Style Hot Dog:

    Finally, you must try a classic Chicago-style hot dog from a local stand. It’s a specific culinary creation: an all-beef frankfurter on a poppy seed bun, “dragged through the garden” with seven specific toppings: yellow mustard, chopped white onions, bright green sweet pickle relish, a dill pickle spear, tomato slices, pickled sport peppers, and a dash of celery salt. And whatever you do, don’t ask for ketchup!

    Final Thoughts on Our Chicago Trip

    Chicago completely won us over. It’s a city that effortlessly blends grand, historic architecture with a down-to-earth, friendly vibe. The food scene is world-class, the museums are captivating, and the energy is infectious. Five days felt like the perfect amount of time to get a real taste of the city, leaving us with plenty of reasons to plan a return trip to explore even more of its amazing neighborhoods and restaurants.

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  • What to Do in Kanazawa: A 2-Day Itinerary for Food & History

    What to Do in Kanazawa: A 2-Day Itinerary for Food & History

    When planning our Japan itinerary, Kanazawa wasn’t initially on the top of our list. But as we mapped out our route from Kyoto to Tokyo, this lesser-known gem in Ishikawa Prefecture stood out as the perfect stopover. And it turned out to be exactly that—a charming town rich in history and beauty, ideal for a short 2-3 day visit.

    Often called “Little Kyoto,” Kanazawa offers a condensed, genuine glimpse into historic Japan without the overwhelming crowds. The city is famous for its gold leaf production (kinpaku), and you’ll see its shimmering touch everywhere—a constant reminder of the city’s deep-rooted artisanal heritage. If you’re wondering is Kanazawa worth visiting, the answer is a resounding yes.

    For our stay, we booked The Sanraku Hotel Kanazawa. It was a lovely 5-star hotel—impeccably clean with fantastic staff. However, we were missing a few amenities that we would usually expect in this category.

    Getting to Kanazawa

    Getting to Kanazawa is straightforward, especially if you have a Japan Rail Pass. The city is a major stop on the Hokuriku Shinkansen line, making it easily accessible.

    • From Tokyo: The direct Shinkansen ride takes about 2.5 to 3 hours.
    • From Kyoto/Osaka: You’ll need to take a combination of the Thunderbird limited express train and Shinkansen, which takes just over 2 hours.

    Must-See Sights in Kanazawa: A Walking Itinerary

    Kanazawa is incredibly walkable. Here are the sights you shouldn’t miss.

    Kanazawa Castle & Kenroku-en Garden

    Start your exploration at Kanazawa Castle, the historic seat of the powerful Maeda Clan. While a reconstruction, its impressive gates and turrets give you a real sense of feudal Japan.

    Right next door is Kenroku-en, rightfully known as one of Japan’s three most beautiful landscape gardens. Every path leads to a picture-perfect view of its ancient ponds, stone lanterns, and charming teahouses. Plan for at least a couple of hours to soak it all in.

    A view of the historic Kanazawa Castle under a dramatic, cloudy sky.
    The iconic ancient pine trees of Kanazawa Kenroku-en Garden, with branches held up by traditional yukitsuri supports.

    Omicho Market: The City’s Kitchen

    A short walk from the castle is Omicho Market, while not as large as markets in bigger cities (like the famous Nishiki Market in Kyoto), its authentic vibe is its main draw. It’s the best place in Kanazawa to try fresh seafood, regional produce, and street food snacks.

    Explore the Historic Geisha and Samurai Districts

    No trip to Kanazawa is complete without walking through its preserved historical districts.

    • Higashi Chaya District: This is the city’s main geisha district, with beautiful latticed wooden teahouses that now serve as cafes and artisan shops.
    • Nagamachi Samurai District: Wander past the mud-walled residences where samurai once lived. You can even enter the Nomura-ke, a restored samurai house, to see how they lived.

    Best Restaurants in Kanazawa: From Hidden Ramen to DIY Sushi

    The food scene in Kanazawa was a major highlight of our trip. Here are our top recommendations.

    Dinner & Unique Food Experiences

    • Aburaya: This was a top find for authentic, cheap eats. A tiny ramen spot in the basement of an office building, you order from a cash-only machine in the back. It’s a no-frills, delicious, and genuine local experience.
    • Sushi Rekireki Omicho: Hands down, the best sushi experience we had in Japan. You must book in advance. We chose the omakase menu, where the chef presents a flawless course-by-course journey of the freshest fish. It’s a culinary event you won’t forget.
    • Kanazawa Temakizushi Coil: This concept is brilliant and so much fun. You build your own sushi from a huge list of high-quality ingredients. It’s interactive, creative, and a perfect activity for a date night. We loved it.
    The chef's counter at Sushi Rekireki Omicho, showing a platter of fresh fish prepared for an omakase meal.
    A colorful spread of ingredients for build-your-own temakizushi in small dishes at Kanazawa Temakizushi Coil.

    Breakfast & Coffee Shops

    • townsfolk coffee: The perfect place to start your day. We had a wonderful breakfast here before exploring the nearby samurai district.
    • PETRA BAKE & COFFEE: Located right at the corner of Omicho Market, it’s an ideal spot to grab a quality coffee and pastry before diving into the market’s buzz.
    • SWAY COFFEE ROASTER: For coffee aficionados, this modern cafe serves up an excellent brew in a sleek, contemporary setting.
    A breakfast spread at townsfolk coffee, featuring two lattes with heart-shaped art, a cardamom bun, and sliced bread.
    The counter at Petra Bake & Coffee, with its distinctive neon sign and a display of fresh baked goods.
    A tray from Sway Coffee Roaster holding a hot latte, an iced coffee, and a grilled panini.

    Final Thoughts: Is Kanazawa Worth Visiting?

    Absolutely. Kanazawa was an unexpected highlight of our Japan travels. It packs an incredible amount of culture, history, and outstanding food into a compact, accessible city. While sights like Kiyomizu-dera in Kyoto are stunning, the relaxed and authentic atmosphere of Kanazawa offered a welcome change of pace. It’s the perfect addition to any itinerary, beautifully bridging the journey between Tokyo and Kyoto.

  • 5 days in Kyoto

    5 days in Kyoto

    We recently completed our first Japan trip and I want to take you along with us to show you the highlights of each of our stops.

    Arrival: From Nagoya to Kyoto via Shinkansen

    We landed late at night in Nagoya and hopped on the legendary Shinkansen straight to Kyoto Station. Our first experience with Japan’s rail system – clean, fast, and punctual. In under two hours, we were in the cultural heart of Japan.

    Our hotel, the Holiday Inn Kyoto, was conveniently located within walking distance of the city center and just a few minutes from the subway.

    Getting Around Kyoto: What You Need to Know

    Let’s start with the practical part: how to get around Kyoto. The city has a massive central hub – Kyoto Station – and just two main subway lines. Most of your travel will likely involve buses, which operate on a zone-based system. Subways are distance-based.

    Tip: Grab a prepaid  IC card (like Suica or ICOCA). It works across most trains, subways, and buses throughout Japan – even in Tokyo or Osaka.

    IC cards are rechargeable cards that can be used to conveniently pay fares on public transport – they can also be used on vending machines, shops and restaurants. You can get physical cards at the airport or simply download the app. As foreigner you can’t reimburse money in the app so make sure to spend it at the airport.

    If you’re staying near the city center, consider walking. Kyoto is surprisingly walkable, and exploring the side streets gives you a glimpse into everyday life far from the tourist hotspots.

    Breakfast Spots 

    Totaro – A charming little café known for its Japanese-style sweet breakfast and matcha. Think delicate rice dumplings (dango) and cozy vibes. It opens at 10 AM, and even then, there’s usually a small queue. There’s no seating – just standing tables – but it’s worth the wait.

    Kissa Kishin – If you’re craving a more Western-style breakfast, this one hits the spot. It’s a favorite among international travelers and serves French toast, brioche, and good coffee. It’s located a bit outside the city center, so a bus or Uber is your best bet.

    Lorimer – A spot for the traditionalists. Here you can experience a classic Japanese breakfast with various sizes and dishes like grilled fish and pickled sides. We chose the smaller version, and it was just right to start the day.

    Totaro
    Kissa Kishin
    Lorimer

    Lunch & Dinner: Ramen Dreams Come True

    Men-ya Inoichi – This is where Instagram and real life collide. The ramen here is truly exceptional, but be warned: it’s popular. You take a number, go away for a couple of hours, then return and wait again. All for 20 minutes of ramen bliss. If you’re visiting during cherry blossom season, be prepared to wait – but it’s worth it. Plan ahead and explore the city while you wait.

    Comorebi – Our second ramen stop, and honestly our favorite. A cozy little place with excellent ramen, great local beer, and warm hospitality. We didn’t have to wait when we arrived, but by the time we left, a line had already formed. Still, we never felt rushed. A true hidden gem.

    Mama Pizza – If you’re craving pizza in Kyoto, Mama Pizza is the spot to go. Located a bit outside the city center and near the Arashiyama Bamboo Forest, it’s the perfect place to refuel after a stroll through one of Kyoto’s most scenic areas. The surrounding neighborhood is peaceful and picturesque, making it well worth the detour.

    Men-ya Inoichi
    Comorebi 
    Mama

    Sights You Shouldn’t Miss

    Nijō Castle – A beautiful historical site that’s less crowded than Kyoto’s other landmarks but just as impressive. It has a wonderful maintained garden and is beautiful to walk around, just the inner building can be full especially with bigger tourist groups blocking the small hallways.

    Nishiki Market – A must-visit for any foodie. This crowded street market is filled with street food, fresh seafood, and local specialties. It’s a great place to snack and explore at the same time.

    Kiyomizu-dera – Probably the most touristy place we visited, but undeniably beautiful. The streets leading up to the temple are packed, so try visiting during a weekday or early morning for a calmer experience. Once you’re there, the view is worth it.

    Nijō
    Nishiki Market
    Kiyomizu-dera

    Cherry Blossoms as we travelled during cherry blossom season here are some additional tips if you want to find the best places to take some pictures. There is a website tracking the level of bloom during bloom season with daily updates. If they are at full bloom be quick, they only last about two weeks. If you are not keen on seeing these beautiful trees I would advise to travel sometime else, hotels will be cheaper and it will be less crowded.