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Some travelers to Japan might consider vacation rentals as an appealing alternative to hotels, especially for larger groups or those looking to experience everyday life. Vacation rentals are usually a short-term rental property listed on a platform, like Airbnb, where individuals can rent out a room or entire home to travelers. Things to Know: A wide variety of rentals are available from rooms, apartments, tiny homes, villas, or entire homes. Potentially offering more space and privacy than a typical hotel. Many people believe they experience a more immersive and authentic connection with Japanese culture with this type of stay. Prices can be competitive with hotels and may even be more affordable if booking for long periods or outside of tourist areas. The quality of properties can differ greatly, and many amenities typically available in hotels are often not included. Some rentals have a kitchen and laundry area. The majority of rentals are located in areas populated by locals and nearby neighborhood markets. Guests must present identification before their stay so the owner can register their information as required by law. Vacation rentals are heavy regulated in Japan. Be cautious of vacation rental hosts who may request that you claim you're simply visiting friends, as this could indicate an illegally operated rental. Certain bookings may result in unexpected cancellations or possible problems with landlords. You should be aware of noise regulations and know how to properly dispose of garbage to prevent complaints from neighbors. Many complaints about tourists in vacation rentals stem from their disregard for the above points. Pros: Cons: Unique Local Stay Regulation Issues Privacy & Space Lack of Services found in Hotels Cost Effective Varying Quality of Stay Access to Local Amenities/ Everyday Life Language Barrier To see some reviews of our stays, take a look at this article.

Capsule Hotel Hostels and Capsule hotels are a budget friendly accommodation in Japan. A capsule hotel provides a compact private space with a bed and shared amenities to minimize expenses. Similarly, hostels may offer shared rooms containing multiple beds. Things to Know: Both can be separated by gender or designated as a single-gender facility. You will be sharing a sleeping space with unfamiliar people. Bathrooms and toilets are typically located in a shared area and are often separated by gender. There are communal spaces such as a lounging area and a kitchen. Basic amenities such as slippers, a toothbrush, and toothpaste are provided. Your bed area cannot be locked when you're not there, or sometimes it cannot be locked at all. Private Lockers are available but are limited in space. A designated area is typically provided for large luggage, and certain facilities might restrict the number you can store. Tokyo Guest House Itabashijuku Hostel Beds Pros: Cons: Inexpensive Shared Spaces, Lacking Privacy and Some Comforts Sociable Atmosphere Limited Space for Luggage Great for backpackers or for a short stay Not suitable for most Long Stays To see some reviews of our stays, take a look at this article.

InterContinental Yokohama Grand, IHG Hotel For accommodations in Japan, hotels are certainly a safe and efficient choice. A classic staple we all know! This includes a private bedroom with a private bathroom. In Japan, especially Tokyo, hotel rooms tend to be smaller. Business hotels, similar to Western-style hotels, are known for being slightly smaller yet effective stays. Things to Know: When booking, you will typically notice the room size is indicated. Generally, smaller rooms tend to have better prices. Having larger luggage makes the room more cramped, but it's still manageable. Certain hotels provide the option of either a standing shower or a traditional Japanese soaking tub. Hotels provide a variety of amenities, including sleepwear or robe, toothbrush and toothpaste, comb, hair and bath products, tea kettle with teas, and more. Often, amenities are already available in the room, but sometimes there is a section in the check-in lobby where you can select the necessary or additional amenities. You should confirm whether the hotel has a laundry facility, as not all hotels offer this service. Swimming pools are typically not included, and an extra fee might be required. Some are only open in the summer. Additionally, bathing rules must be followed, such as a swim cap. At most hotels, luggage can be stored and luggage transport services can be arranged at the front desk. InterContinental Yokohama Grand, IHG Hotel Room View Pros: Cons: Concierge services available Not a traditional Japanese experience Luggage storage options May be expensive Many amenities offered Rooms are quite small Tosei Hotel in Ueno To see some reviews of our hotel stays, take a look at this article.

City street in Japan lined with colorful signs and vibrant storefronts Did you know that over 30 million people have already visited Japan in 2024? It's clear that Japan is a leading travel destination for many worldwide, and it might be yours too! You might have already begun organizing your journey to this fascinating and incredible country. However, before purchasing your flight tickets, you might ask yourself, what would be the perfect length for my trip to Japan? You definitely want to make the right decision to avoid any regrets and to make the most of your trip!  Challenges Faced Before Booking Many plan trips based on available vacation time, worrying it's insufficient to enjoy Japan. Others with flexible schedules may question the affordability of a longer stay or fitting activities into their timeframe. Some lack a clear itinerary, unsure of how long to stay, while others fear a longer trip might be overwhelming. Each person has their own preferences and pleasures when it comes to traveling, particularly to Japan! So, how can you make this difficult choice and confidently book your flight to officially embark on your Japan journey? Allow me to assist you below.  Factors to Consider Time The time you have available is a significant consideration. Even if your time is limited, you can still manage it. Keep in mind that for many, this trip is quite a long one, and you might spend two days just traveling to and from your destination. Jet Lag/Time Zone Shift Consider that jet lag and the time difference might slow you down during the first day or so—trust me, you'll notice it! Budget Consider your budget carefully, as it can limit how long you can stay. Areas You Want to Visit Another consideration is your desired destination. If you're concentrating on just one location, such as Tokyo, a shorter stay may be sufficient. However, if you plan to explore multiple places like Osaka or beyond, you might need to lengthen your trip. The massive City of Tokyo Must See and Do Experiences Take into account your must-see attractions and interests such as food, nature, anime, and shopping, ensuring you have ample time to enjoy everything you've planned at your own pace. Season/Holiday Lastly, keep in mind that traveling during peak season can be both crowded and more expensive.  Recommendation For first-time visitors, I recommend planning a trip of 10 to 14 days, ideally around the 2-week mark. This duration allows you enough time to arrive, adjust to the time difference, embrace the culture shock, and enjoy your visit at a comfortable pace. It's important to balance your schedule not just with a packed itinerary, but also by allowing time for getting lost, wandering and exploring, revisiting favorite spots, and taking a rest day from all the walking. Street view of Fukuoka During our first trip, we spent 15 days solely in Tokyo. This gave us the opportunity to explore nearly everything we wanted, but we still missed some activities, as some places closed earlier than expected or we simply ran out of time. On our second trip, we spent 16 days traveling from Fukuoka to Tokyo, and we still wished we had more time. Side Note: If you're traveling through Asia and considering a stopover in Japan, you definitely should! Even a brief visit for ramen or a trip to 7-Eleven is worthwhile, at least in my opinion. Conclusion In conclusion, plan to visit for as many days as you can manage! Avoid making your trip too brief, which might leave you feeling like you missed out or overly tired. Take into account your budget and desired itinerary, and allow some flexibility to explore this wonderful country.

Beppu, located on Japan's scenic Kyushu island, is a haven of stunning landscapes and vibrant culture. Renowned as one of Japan’s top spa destinations, Beppu not only offers breathtaking views but also invites relaxation in its numerous hot springs. Among the various choices, Hyotan Onsen was our choice due to its outstanding private onsens that guarantee a unique and relaxing experience. The Charm of Beppu's Hot Springs With over 2,000 hot springs, Beppu is a well-deserved favorite among onsen enthusiasts. These springs get their warm, mineral-packed waters from the strong geothermal activity underground. Each one provides soothing waters that can help you relax, improve your circulation, and make your skin healthier. Exploring Hyotan Onsen Our visit to Hyotan Onsen was a deeply relaxing detour on our way to the amazing Sunflower Ferry Terminal coming from Fukuoka. This peaceful retreat is crafted to suit various preferences, offering both indoor and outdoor bathing options. The highlight of our experience was the array of private baths, allowing us the luxury of unwinding in solitude and bathing together! Distinctive Features of Private Onsen Baths The private onsen experience at Hyotan is truly unique. Each private onsen room incorporates natural materials like wood and stone. Guests can enjoy an uninterrupted soak, away from the crowds typical of public baths. The "Ms. Matsu’s yu-kokochi" series features 8 styles of indoor baths and 2 open-air baths, all available for reservation by phone. You can begin making reservations one week in advance. We wanted an open-air bath, but it was already booked. We chose the Hotaru bath instead and absolutely loved it. Every private bath is a standalone house, offering the ambiance of a villa and with a changing room area. After each use, the water in all reserved private baths is replaced. The bath is filled with hot spring water using a token and is assigned a specific time period. You can expect to pay approximately 2,400 yen or more for this private experience, which is reasonably priced compared to private onsens near Hakone and Mount Fuji. Tip: The onsen also provides bento boxes with a variety of dishes, allowing meals to be enjoyed in the lobby or by the water's edge. Concluding Thoughts on Our Beppu Visit We only had a few short hours in Beppu, but we fell in love with it! We wished we had more time to explore all the features of Hyotan Onsen and the city of Beppu itself. This was an outstanding private onsen experience that we highly recommend if you find yourself in that part of Japan!

Yokohama Bay View If you're thinking of heading to Tokyo and want to do some day trips, Yokohama is a great option! It's the second biggest city in Japan and only a quick thirty-minute train ride south of Tokyo. Wondering what activities this port city has to offer? Discover Yokohama with my 12 Must-See Attractions list below. Seating & View at the SKY Garden 1) YOKOHAMA LANDMARK TOWER - $6 -15 Located within Yokohama Royal Park Hotel is the SKY Garden Observation Deck on the 69th floor. This impressive building offers a 360-degree observation area. You can purchase tickets for approximately $6 online , and it's worth exploring package options that might come with a drink and a small souvenir. Make sure to drop by the Souvenir Shop and also enjoy original cocktails, beer, and floats at SKY Café as you admire the panoramic view. 2) YOKOHAMA AIR CABIN - $7-12 A modern circular cable car links JR Sakuragichō Station and Unga Park, providing a scenic view of the city. A single journey costs approximately $7, and a return trip is priced at $12. It's a fantastic way to explore the city both day and night. Don't forget to check out combo tickets that include the following attraction below. Cosmo Clock 21 in Daylight 3) YOKOHAMA COSMO WORLD - $6-16 Family-friendly amusement park featuring a large Ferris wheel, high-speed roller coaster, and other rides. You can experience the Cosmo Clock 21, the world's largest Ferris wheel with a clock function. Rides to this ferris wheel are around $6 for a 15-minute experience, which is especially beautiful at night. You also have the option for combo tickets with the Yokohama Air Cabin at $11 for one way or $16 for a round trip. Exhibit in Cup Noodles Museum 4) CUP NOODLES MUSEUM YOKOHAMA - $3-15 Discover the innovative world of Momofuku Ando at this interactive museum dedicated to instant ramen. Design your own cup noodles at the MyCup Noodles Factory, indulge in a global noodle experience at the NOODLES BAZAAR, and handcraft ramen at the Chicken Ramen Factory (seperate fee and reservation required). Kids can also enjoy the CupNoodles park for an additional fee. Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse 5) SHOPPING!! Yokohama has plenty of malls and shoppping centers to keep you entertained. Explore Yokohama World Porters, Yokohama Hammerhead, and Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse, a converted warehouse that now serves as a shopping and cultural hub. If you are looking for suggestions on where to stay in Yokohama or Tokyo, be sure to read this blog post. View from Osanbashi Yokohama Intl. Passenger Terminal 6) OSANBASHI YOKOHAMA INTL. PASSENGER TERMINAL - Free Once a historic site for the Port of Yokohama, now is a work of art with a unique architectural design. Enjoy a 360-degree panorama of Yokohama's tourist attractions at this terminal. The rooftop is open 24/7, offering spectacular views of Yokohama and the sea. Yamashita Park Fountain 7) YAMASHITA PARK - Free Located along Yokohama's waterfront, this public park boasts beautiful landscaping and is perfect to visit while strolling between tourist attractions. Yokohama Chinatown Street View 8) YOKAHAMA CHINATOWN - Free Visit Japan's largest Chinatown! Featuring colorful streets and numerous stores, restaurants, and street vendors. Concept Car in Nissan Global Headquaters Gallery 9) NISSAN GLOBAL HEADQUATERS GALLERY - Free This car exhibition is conveniently located close to Yokohama Station, where you can view, interact with, and learn about a variety of Nissan vehicles and technologies. Explore the NISSAN BOUTIQUE for a selection of Nissan merchandise and accessories. Treat yourself to a Starbucks coffee or take part in the Car Stimulator, daily test drives offered upon reservation. Feel free to check out our YouTube video below showcasing the top 9 attractions in this article. 10) JR YOKOHAMA TOWER - Free JR Yokohama Tower is a facility connected to the west exit of JR Yokohama Station West Entrance. The complex features a four-story atrium and a rooftop plaza named "Sea-Sky Deck" on the 12th floor, providing stunning views of Yokohama Bay and Yokohama Bay Bridge. It is an ideal spot to unwind and pause for a while. Kirin Beer 11) KIRIN BREWERY YOKOHAMA FACTORY - $3 Explore the production techniques and uncover the secret behind the exquisite flavor of this Japanese beer at a spacious brewery. Experience firsthand the ingredients essential for brewing as you engage your senses through tasting, touching, and smelling. Finalize the tour by sampling the finished products (aged 20 years or older). It is advisable to make reservations in advance and be prepared for the tour to be in Japanese with an english booklet available. 12) SHIN-YOKOHAMA RAMEN MUSUEM - $1-3 In 1994, the Ramen Museum was born, becoming the first-ever Ramen-themed amusement park in the world. It's basically a one-stop shop where you can try out all kinds of delicious ramen from top-notch spots in Japan without having to hop around the country. Inside, you'll find a cool setup that looks like a street scene straight out of 1958 Japan, complete with seven ramen joints to choose from. And if you're curious, there's also an exhibition area where you can learn all about the fascinating history and cultural importance of ramen. Sunrise in Yokohama Bay CONCLUSION Yokohama, located just outside Tokyo, is a real treasure. I wish you the chance to explore this city and check off some items on this list.

Pokemon Cafe Iced Latte If you're a Pokemon fan of any age, you have to check out the Pokemon Cafe - it's one of the coolest experiences you can have! Whether you are just a casual observer or a devoted fan, this cafe will be a great experience. In this blog post, we will explore everything you need to know to make the most of your visit to this enchanting spot. What Makes the Pokémon Cafe Unique? The Pokemon Cafe is not just any themed eatery; it’s a celebration of the cherished Pokemon universe. From the moment you step inside, you’ll be surrounded by an immersive ambiance filled with colorful decor & plush toys. The friendly staff enhances the magic, their enthusiasm adds to the atmosphere, making sure that guests feel fully engaged with the world of Pokemon. The immersive decor brings the Pokemon world to life. Pokemon Cafe Menu: Experience a Foodie’s Paradise One of the most exciting aspects of the Pokemon Cafe is its menu. Expect adorable dishes designed to mirror various Pokemon. Among the fan favorites are the Pikachu-themed curry, which features bright yellow rice shaped like Pikachu and a napping Snorlax's Lunch Plate. The flavors are just as impressive as the presentation. Each meal is crafted with care, ensuring every bite is delightful. Also, the cafe offers refreshing drinks that are just as creatively designed as the food. A drink like the Pikachu Ice Cream Lemon Float is a great way to complement your meal. Expect to spend about 2,500 yen to 5,000 yen per person. Super cute Pikachu-themed dish that tastes absolutely delicious! Reservations in Tokyo, Japan To ensure a smooth visit to the Pokemon Cafe, making a reservation is crucial. This popular spot tends to be busy, especially on weekends, with many visitors eager to experience the magic. Reservations can be made online 31 days in advance. When booking, you can select from specific time slots. Each table is usually allocated a two-hour window. Some people do struggle to make reservations. We recommend watching our YouTube video for tips on securing a dinner booking just before your trip. Interesting Fact: There are only two Pokemon cafes in the world, one in Tokyo and the other in Osaka, making this truly an exclusive Japan experience. What to Expect During Your Visit After checking in with your email reservation number, you’ll be guided to your table. The cafe has an electronic menu system, allowing you to browse options at your own pace. Digital Menu at Pokemon Cafe and Themed Food Items Throughout your meal, be prepared for some delightful surprises. Character mascots make special appearances, creating memorable moments that enhance the overall dining experience. We had the pleasure of experiencing pastry chef Pikachu and Gengar . Take time to soak in the surroundings. The decor has numerous photo opportunities, from vibrant artwork to plush Pokemon scattered throughout. Bringing Home Pokemon Memories: Merchandise The Pokemon Cafe offers more than tasty food; it’s also a treasure trove of exclusive merchandise! After your meal, by the checkout, browse through collectible items and adorable plush toys that serve as delightful mementos of your visit. These items capture the essence of both the cafe and the Pokemon characters, making them ideal souvenirs. You can budget around 1,000 to 3,000 yen to bring home a piece of the experience. Tip: If you wanna check out the Pokemon Center Tokyo DX next to the cafe and grab some more cool Pokemon stuff, it's best to get there early or book an early time slot! Pokemon Center Tokyo DX in Tokyo, Japan by cafe Conclusion The Pokemon Cafe experience in Tokyo, Japan is a paradise for fans wanting to dine in the whimsical world of Pokemon. I hope you can experience this unique experience in the heart of Tokyo!

So, for the last few years, we've been all about Japan for our trips. Picking where to stay has been a big deal for us, and we've been pretty thorough about it. I want to tell you all about the spots we've stayed at while exploring Japan, why we picked them, and what we thought of them. Hopefully, our experiences can give you some good tips and ideas too. Tokyo Hotels & Hostels Tosei Hotel Cocone Ueno Okachimachi Tosei Hotel Cocone Ueno Tokyo, Japan Location:  Ueno - Haneda Airport - 40 min Train Ride, Narita Airport - 1hr Train Ride Ameyoko Shopping District - 3 min walk Ueno-hirokoji Station - 2 min walk Okachimachi Station - 2 min walk Ueno-okachimachi Station - 3 min walk Reasons for selecting this hotel:  Centrally Located in Tokyo & Discounted Price for Long Stay Impressions: The place we stayed at in central Tokyo was super convenient, with lots of train lines close by. There were plenty of affordable places to eat and shop around the area. We had a great time walking to Akihabara, sometimes hopping off at the station and enjoying a leisurely stroll back to the hotel. Our room was always clean and tidy, with daily cleaning and fresh water provided. Plus, they had handy facilities like a washer and dryer in the lobby. We really enjoyed our twelve-night stay there! Tokyo Guest House Itabashijuku - Hostel Tokyo Guest House Itabashijuku Hostel Beds Location:  Itabashi City Near Ikebukuro - Haneda Airport - 1hr 10mins Train Ride, NaritaAirport - 1hr 20mins Train Ride Ikebukuro Station 11 min Train Ride Naka-Itabashi Station - 3 min walk Tokiwadai Station - 11 min walk Oyama Station - 13 min walk Reasons for selecting this hotel:  Cheap Last Minute Stay by Ikebukuro Impressions: This hostel near Ikebukuro has affordable local shops nearby and offers clean, secure common areas. Facilities like a fridge and small kitchen are available for all guests. Note that unlike most hostels, facilities are shared by both genders, including bathrooms. Not suitable for those averse to shared spaces or with lots of luggage. Ideal for budget-conscious backpackers seeking a non-touristy gem in Tokyo. Nearby you can also see a train passing on the street. Street Train Passing at Night Yokohama Hotels InterContinental Yokohama Grand, an IHG Hotel InterContinental Yokohama Grand Exterior View Location:   Haneda Airport - 45 min Train Ride, Cup Noodles Musuem - 10 min walk Minatomirai Station - 6 min walk Sakuragicho Station - 12 min walk Bashamichi Station - 14 min walk Reasons for selecting this hotel:  Visiting Yokohama Gundam & IHG Hotel Impressions: The setting is breathtaking and conveniently near the sights we wanted to see. Situated in a central, easily walkable zone in Yokohama. The rooms were magnificent and generously sized. We reserved a room overlooking the harbor, providing a stunning view of the bay's sunrise and sunset. On another occasion, we stayed in a room with a city view showcasing the iconic Yokohama Ferris Wheel, Cosmo Clock 21. The hotel is huge and provides upscale amenities, definitely catering to a more high-end clientele. Sunrise from Hotel Room Window Hotel Edit Yokohama Hotel Edit Exterior View Location: Haneda Airport - 40 min Train Ride, Landmark Tower - 10 min walk Bashamichi Station - 5 min walk Kannai Station - 5 min walk Sakuragicho Station - 5 min walk Reasons for selecting this hotel: Visiting Yokohama Gundam & Reasonable Price Impressions: The location is close to the attractions we were visiting, and the surrounding area was nice. The room was slightly older than we had anticipated, but our two-night stay was satisfactory overall. There were plenty of basic amenities available. The only drawback was that, despite being close to several stations, the area was a bit challenging to navigate with luggage at night due to the need to climb stairs to cross streets and the closure of elevators in shopping centers. Osaka Holiday Inn Express Osaka City Centre - Midosuji, an IHG Hotel Holiday Inn Express Osaka City Centre - Midosuji Exterior View Location:   Itami Airport - 45 min Train Ride, Dotonbori - 20 min walk Hommachi Station - 3 min walk Shinsaibashi Station - 7 min walk Sakaisuji-hommachi Station - 9 min walk Reasons for selecting this hotel:  Near Nipponbashi Denden Town & IHG Hotel Impression: A convenient 4-night stay at a stylish art deco hotel in Minami, Osaka, includes complimentary breakfast. Despite the daily breakfast queue, it moved fast and helped us save money. The lobby offers numerous complimentary amenities, as well as some available for an additional fee. The front desk staff were friendly and accommodating, while the rooms were both clean and contemporary. The surrounding area has several luxury car dealerships and upscale shops. Ferrari Car Dealership On Street Fukukoka Hotel ANA Crowne Plaza Fukuoka, an IHG Hotel Ana Crowne Plaza Fukuoka Exterior Location:   Fukuoka Airport - 13 min Train Ride, Canal City Hakata - 9 min walk Hakata Station - 4 min walk Reasons for selecting this hotel:  Visiting RX-93ff Gundam & IHG Hotel Impression: The guest services at this hotel are probably the best we've ever had. It's super close to the airport and the huge Hakata Station, and the hotel has a really fancy entrance and vibe. The rooms might be a bit old-school, but they're big, clean, and comfy. Plus, there's a fancy bar where you can enjoy a late-night cocktail. We really enjoyed our stay and definitely stay again when in the area. RX-93ff Gundam outside of Mall Conclusion As you can see when we plan our trip, we make sure to choose hotels near cool spots or transportation hubs to make it easier for us to explore and save time. By thinking about what we like, our budget, and how we will be getting around, we can find the perfect place to stay. Hope you found our list of hotels we've stayed at before helpful!

Do you have a passion for coffee, particularly from Starbucks? Are you a fan of coffee-based liquors and cocktails, as well as freshly baked bread and desserts? Do you enjoy indulging in a variety of teas? If you said yes to any of those questions, then you're in for a treat because the Starbucks Reserve Roastery in Tokyo is the perfect spot for you! Providing a unique coffee experience unlike any other, it is a must-visit for all coffee lovers. You are bound to enjoy your time there, regardless of whether you are a devoted coffee drinker or not. Location The Starbucks Reserve Roastery in Tokyo is situated near Shibuya. To get there, simply take the Toyoko Line from Shibuya station to Naka-Meguro Station in Meguro City, which is just a 3-minute ride. From Naka-Meguro Station, it's a straightforward 12-minute walk to reach the Roastery. The building is located next to a Don Quijote store and may appear unassuming from the outside, but the real surprise lies within. Inside Upon entering this four-story building, you will be welcomed by the delightful scent of freshly brewed coffee and the sight of skilled baristas preparing specialty beverages. The staff will greet you as you notice the gift shop right at the entrance, offering a diverse selection of exclusive Starbucks Reserve Tokyo merchandise. Additionally, there is a section where you can purchase a bag of freshly roasted coffee beans directly from the Coffee Scoop Bar. First floor The menu offers a diverse selection of unique coffees sourced globally, each with its own distinctive flavor profile. Select your preferred coffee beans. Additionally, you can choose the brewing method that complements your chosen coffee beans. Coffee flights are also available for you to enjoy. Apart from coffee, you will see an authentic Italian bakery where you can find a variety of artisanal breads, pastries, and desserts to accompany your beverage. Treat yourself to a delicious Tiramisu or focaccia pizza. They do offer some of the items in the bakery on the other floors. Second Floor The second floor is designated for Teavana's tea experience, where the focus is on Japanese tea culture, using premium ingredients and creative brewing techniques. This space stands out due to distinctive features like a 3D printed bar, origami ceilings, and a teacup wall. Third floor At our favorite and recommended floor, you can enjoy the Arriviamo Bar, where a blend of coffee, tea, and spirits results in unique cocktails and extraordinary coffee concoctions. If there are open seats, feel free to sit at the elegant wooden bar and witness the preparation of your coffee or cocktail right before your eyes. Additionally, outdoor balcony seating is available. Tip: Try the New Tokyo Fashion - whiskey & cold brew garnished with a sakura leaf. Yes! Fourth floor There is an extra seating area in this space that can serve as an event space or lounge.  Pricing The exceptional quality of service justifies the cost. Coffees and teas are priced at approximately 1,000 yen or less, equivalent to $7. Food items range from $3 to $7, while alcoholic beverages are priced at $15. Plan to spend between $60 to $100 for two people to enjoy coffee or tea, a cocktail, a tasty treat, and perhaps a souvenir. FYI: I found other Starbucks Reserve Bar locations in Japan! They are a much smaller scale version of the Roastery but are a great alternative if you are closer to those locations.  Conclusion Whether you prefer a classic espresso, a handcrafted latte, or tea you're sure to find something to satisfy your cravings. This Roastery offers a one-of-a-kind atmosphere and an immersive experience that demonstrates their "love affair with coffee knows no bounds". Everything was so thoughtfully designed and its truly impressive.  So why not add this to your Tokyo itinerary? It's a coffee experience you won't forget.

Planning a trip to Japan and looking beyond Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto? Consider exploring Fukuoka! Situated in the southwest of Kyushu Island, Fukuoka is Japan's largest city on the island and ranks among the top ten most populous cities in Japan. Wondering if Fukuoka is worth visiting compared to Tokyo? We loved it and want to go back! Discover our day and a half itinerary for Fukuoka below. Fukuoka, Japan - City View from Fukuoka Tower Getting to Fukuoka First, we got to Fukuoka via plane. We were in Korea for the weekend and started off our Japan trip in Fukuoka. Another way to travel to Fukuoka is by ferry from Busan, South Korea. If you are in Japan, you can also take the shinkansen from Tokyo to Fukuoka, which takes about 5 to 6 hours and costs around 23,000 yen. Alternatively, domestic discount flights within Japan can cost between 6,000 and 35,000 yen and take approximately 4 hours. HAKATA STATION Inside Hakata Station From Fukuoka airport, we took a free shuttle bus that would take us to the train station nearby. Once at the train station, we made our way to Hakata Station. The station is massive and quite impressive! With numerous stores both inside and outside, we could have easily spent the whole day there if we had wanted to. CANAL CITY Ramen from Original Tomato Ramen Sanmi 333 At the top of our agenda after arriving was...RAMEN! Our favorite comfort food during the cold winter months in Japan! Our destination was the Ramen Stadium in Canal City, a shopping complex featuring a section specifically for different ramen shops. Our goal was to try the renowned Original Tomato Ramen Sanmi 333, the highest-rated ramen spot according to Google reviews in this venue. It was delicious and a fantastic beginning to our journey in Japan. There are plenty of other ramen choices available, so enjoy exploring your options. After that, we ventured into Canal City itself, which is a spacious open-air mall area. We enjoyed the water fountain show, known as Canal City Hakata Sun Plaza Stage. Check out our YouTube video to get a better look at what we did! FUKUOKA GUNDAM We headed to the Gundam Base Fukuoka located within Canal City. The Gundam base was massive, showcasing a wide variety of gunpla kits for display and purchase. It's a awesome destination for Gundam/Gunpla enthusiasts! Life-Size RX-93ff 𝛎 Gundam Statue The following day, we visited Gundam Park at Lalaport Fukuoka. There is a large gunpla store and a small Gundam Side F Store nearby. However, the highlight is the Life-Size RX-93ff 𝛎 Gundam Statue located just outside the mall. It's insanely cool! Random Tip: If you want to find more Gunpla kits, check out BookOff - an organized and better Goodwill of new and used item. BOSS E · ZO FUKUOKA On our full day, we visited Mizuho PayPay Dome FUKUOKA. The dome houses the Fukuoka SoftBank Hawks baseball field. Due to our visit taking place in February, we couldn't go to a game. Within the dome is BOSS E · ZO FUKUOKA, a large entertainment complex offering a variety of attractions and dining options. Here are some of the places we explored there: Exhibit in TeamLab Forest Fukuoka TeamLab Forest Fukuoka TeamLab Forest Fukuoka, is a digital art museum where you can capture, learn about, and release animals using your smartphone. We bought our tickets on the spot without prior reservation at the dome, but it is recommended to book in advance for weekends to secure your preferred time slots. Tickets are about 2,400 yen each. Entrance of MLB Café Fukuoka MLB Café Fukuoka A Major League Baseball-licensed restaurant offering casual American dining and a sports bar experience with a flair for creative culinary entertainment. We stopped by for an early lunch and were impressed by both the delicious food and the stylish decor. Charcoal Latte, Latte, and Pudding at FUK Coffee FUK Coffee Fuk ;) Coffee. Needed some caffeine before going to TeamLab. Seriously delicious coffee and pudding, a must visit for us! ZEKKEI Coaster ZEKKEI Brothers SMBC Nikko Securities Inc. We decided to take a detour to the rooftop of the building after noticing a coaster! It starts from the highest point of E-ZO, approximately 60m above the ground - a single-seater suspended rail coaster. Enjoy an exhilarating ride through a course that spans over 300m! Priced at around 1,800 yen, it's definitely worth it for the breathtaking view and thrill. FUKUOKA TOWER FUKUOKA TOWER Following our visit to TeamLab, we walked for 20 minutes to reach Fukuoka Tower. Fukuoka Tower is a 234-meter tall seaside tower with the highest observation deck at 123 meters, offering a 360° view of the surrounding area, popular at sunset. We loved the views and enjoyed a love lock spot. The entrance fee is around 800 yen, with a discount available when presenting your TeamLab Forest tickets. Sea Side View from FUKUOKA TOWER Tip: Getting to the closest station requires either a lengthy walk or taking a bus, as this attraction is quite a distance away. OTHER DESTINATIONS WE HAD PLANNED TO EXPLORE Ohari Park  Nakasu Yatai Yokocho (Food Stalls Street) Fukuoka Castle Ruins Pokémon Center FUKUOKA Our Stay Ana Crowne Plaza Fukuoka Exterior We stayed at ANA Crowne Plaza Fukuoka, an IHG Hotel  for two nights. About 13 min train Ride from   Fukuoka Airport and a 4 min walk from Hakata Station. The hotel offered amazing guest services. While the rooms have a classic style, they are spacious, clean, and comfortable. Overall, we had a great stay and would return when in the area. Conclusion Kyushu Island boasts stunning historic treasures, modern cities, and natural beauty. Fukuoka left a lasting impression on us, and we definitely intend to revisit with more time. We hope you get the chance to explore this region of Japan as well.

Relaxing Ryokan Stay A ryokan is a traditional Japanese accommodation similar to an inn, typically featuring rooms with tatami mats, communal baths, and a shared public area. Things to Know: Rooms usually include tatami mats & sliding doors. Traditional futon mattresses are placed directly on the tatami floors at night and set aside during the day. Meals like breakfast and dinner are delivered to your room. A table set low to the ground with cushions is arranged in your room for dining. Traditional Japanese meals are served in an elaborate manner, with limited or no substitutes or alternative options available. Many traditional ryokans are situated outside the city, often near hot spring regions. Ryokan are renowned for their traditional style and atmosphere, so it's important to respect the facility's procedures. In older or budget ryokan, you might find that toilets and sinks are shared and located in common areas outside your room. Yukatas are available for use during your stay. You can usually enjoy and choose hot baths in a shared, gender-separated area, reserve a private bath, or choose a room with a small bath included. Pros: Cons: Traditional Stay May Not be Centrally Located Relaxing - Outside the City Lacking Some Privacy and Comforts Support Local Community Food Options May be Limited Hot Baths Can be Expensive Traditional Food and Hospitably Procedures Can be Intimidating To see some reviews of our stays, take a look at this article.