Seoul 4 5 6 7
Ginza 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15
Kawaguchiko 16 17
Shibuya 18 19 20
確認 Partially Planned

Seoul + Japan

JFK → Seoul → Tokyo → Kawaguchiko → Shibuya → JFK
乗車日 Date Apr 4 – 20, 2026
期間 Duration 17 days
都市 Cities 4
便 Flights 3
0days
0flights
0cities
0hotels

Flights

JFKNew York
ICNSeoul
Asiana OZ 223 Fri Apr 3 · 1:30 AM → 6:05 AM+1 Booked
ICNSeoul
NRTTokyo
Jeju Air 7C 1103 Wed Apr 8 · 10:25 AM → 12:55 PM Conf# EEUN2K · ₩220,600 Booked
HNDTokyo
JFKNew York
ANA NH 160 Mon Apr 20 · 10:45 PM → 10:55 PM Booked

Hotels

Hotel Prima Seoul
Booked
Apr 4 – 8 · 4 nights Jongno-gu · near Anguk Station
Check-in 3 PM · Check-out varies
Details
Address46 Ujeongguk-ro, Gyeonji-dong, Jongno-gu
LaundryCheck front desk
GymYes — gym, sauna, jacuzzi (may cost extra)
Seoul → Tokyo · Wed Apr 8
Tokyu Stay Ginza
Booked
Apr 8 – 16 · 8 nights Ginza, Chuo City
Check-in 3 PM · Check-out 11 AM
In-room washer/dryer Kitchenette
Details
Address4-10-5 Ginza, Chuo City, Tokyo 104-0061
LaundryIn-room washer/dryer. Detergent provided (KAO Attack ZERO). Full cycle ~2.5 hrs
GymNo fitness facilities
Ginza → Kawaguchiko · Thu Apr 16
Wakakusa-no-yado Maruei
Booked
Apr 16 – 17 · 1 night Kawaguchiko · ryokan
Check-in 3 PM · Check-out 11 AM
Onsen Dinner & Breakfast Free shuttle
Details
AddressKodachi, Fujikawaguchiko, Yamanashi 401-0302
Phone0555-72-1371
ShuttleFrom station: 2-5 PM (call, arrives ~10 min). To station: 8-11 AM (every 30 min)
OnsenEarly morning 6:30-7:30 AM for sunrise Fuji views
IncludesYukata, towels, toiletries, dinner + Japanese breakfast
Kawaguchiko → Shibuya · Fri Apr 17
JR-East Hotel Mets Shibuya
Booked
Apr 17 – 20 · 3 nights Shibuya · next to JR station
Check-in 3 PM · Check-out 11 AM
Details
Address3-29-17 Shibuya, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo 150-0002
LaundryCoin laundry on-site (2 washers + 2 dryers). Limited capacity — time it. Coin exchange at reception
GymNo fitness facilities

Show to Taxi Driver

Hotel Prima Seoul
호텔 프리마 서울
46 우정국로 곬지동 종로구
Tokyu Stay Ginza
東急ステイ鋀座
4-10-5 鋀座 中央区 東京都 104-0061
Wakakusa-no-yado Maruei
わかくさの宿 丸栄
河口湖町小立 山梨県 401-0302
Tel: 0555-72-1371
JR-East Hotel Mets Shibuya
JR東日本ホテルメッツ渋谷
3-29-17 渋谷 渋谷区 東京都 150-0002

Map

City
Day
Category

Seoul

서울 Apr 4 – 7
Flight
1:30 AM
JFK
ICN
Date
Fri, Apr 3
Arrival
6:05 AM (+1 day)
Airline
Asiana OZ 223
Red-eye. Bus 6011/6002 to hotel (₩17,000) or Uber. Bag drop ~8:30 AM. No check-in until 3 PM.
Sat, Apr 4 Insadong / Jongno / Seochon
⛅ 15°/7° 25%
~3 hrs walking · 14 stops · 3 coffees
💴 Cash: ₩5k coins for Tongin, cash at Sujebi & Myeongdong stalls
  • ~8:30Arrive Hotel Prima Seoul — bag drop onlyRed-eye arrival. No check-in until 3 PM. Jet lag crash ~8:30-9 PM.
  • 9:00Leave Hotel
  • 9:07CoffeeFritz Coffee WonseoIndoorPour over + salt butter bread. Before weekend crowds. 20 min
  • 9:38SnackJayeondo SogeumppangIndoorSalt bread takeout (4-pc min ~₩14k). Eat 1 warm, save rest. 10 min
  • 9:58Changdeokgung PalacePartialOutside walls/gates only, photos. Don't enter. 15 min
  • 10:19Bukchon Hanok VillageOutdoorHanok alleys, hillside streets, photos. Tourist hours start 10 AM. 35 min
  • 11:00CoffeeTXT Coffee (.txt)IndoorSingle-origin hand drip. Opens 11 AM. 20 min
  • 11:35LunchSamcheongdong SujebiIndoorSujebi + pajeon. Before noon rush. 45 min₩ cash preferred
  • 12:34Gyeongbokgung PalacePartialGwanghwamun Gate photos from outside. Don't enter. 15 min
  • 12:59CoffeeNamusairo CoffeeIndoorHand-drip in hanok cafe. 20 min
  • 13:22Tongin Traditional MarketRain-OKBrowse + light snack. Lunch Box Cafe til 4 PM Sat. 25 min₩5k for lunch box coins
  • 13:55Rafre Fruit SeochonIndoorStrawberry bingsu. Opens 1 PM. 20 min
  • 14:40Insadong Culture Street + Fish of AprilPartialInsadong-gil + Ssamziegil. Fish of April 2F: mugwort Vienna + canele. 40 min
  • 15:33Bosingak Bell PavilionOutdoorQuick photo. 5 min
  • 15:56Browse Myeongdong shopsIndoorExplore area before dinner. 30 min
  • 16:30DinnerOdarijip Ganjang GejangIndoorSoy marinated crab. Early = skip rush wait. 50 min
  • 17:25Myeongdong Night MarketOutdoorGraze: tteokbokki, egg bread, tornado potato, hotteok. 30 min₩ cash preferred
  • 18:10HotelDone. 2+ hrs before jet lag crash
🌧️ Rain plan
Fritz → Jayeondo → TXT → Sujebi → Namusairo → Tongin → Rafre → Insadong (Ssamziegil + Fish of April) → Odarijip → Myeongdong underground.

Skip if raining: Bukchon, Changdeokgung/Gyeongbokgung exteriors, Bosingak, Night Market (use underground shopping).
🔀 Decision points
Jayeondo vs Artist Bakery: Default Jayeondo. Artist only if CatchTable pre-booked (1-2 hr Sat queues).

Rafre → Insadong: Walk 25 min (scenic) or subway Line 3 Gyeongbokgung→Anguk (8 min, saves legs).

If energy at 6 PM: Add Taegeukdang (Line 3, 3 stops) for retro bingsu + monaka.
Sun, Apr 5 Myeongdong Morning + Seongsu District
☀ 16°/8° 20%
~2.2 hrs walking · 8 stops + neighborhood walk · 3 coffees
  • 7:30Leave HotelSubway Line 3 Anguk → Myeongdong (~10 min)
  • 7:45Breakfast서원죽 (Seowonjuk)IndoorAbalone congee. Opens 7 AM Sun, closes 2 PM. Walk-in only. ~₩16-17k
  • 8:40명동성당 (Myeongdong Cathedral)OutdoorKorea's oldest parish church (1898). Gothic brick, stained glass. Free. 15 min
  • 8:55Subway to SeongsuMyeongdong → transfer → Line 2 Seongsu (~20 min)
  • 9:20Arrive Seongsu
  • 9:35CoffeeCenter Coffee Seoul ForestIndoorOat latte (signature). Opens 10 AM Tue-Sun. 20 min
  • 10:20Seoul Forest ParkOutdoorLake, deer area, cherry blossoms. Lawn restricted til Apr 30. 40 min
  • 11:15CoffeeBrewing CeremonyIndoorSpecialty coffee. Confirm hours on Naver. 20 min
  • 11:40LunchNeungdong Minari SeongsuIndoorMinari gomtang or yukhoe bibimbap. Michelin Bib Gourmand. 50 min
  • 12:35Han Jung SunIndoorStrawberry mochi takeout. Eat within 30 min. 10 min
  • 12:50CoffeeCoffee Nap RoasteryIndoorSingle origin pour-over. 20 min
  • 13:10Seongsu neighborhood walkPartialConverted factories, cafes, street art. Browse Beaker Seongsu + 에트레 베이크하우스 (엊tre Bakehouse, best salt bread) along Yeonmujang-gil. 45 min
  • 14:00Shoppingthisisneverthat SeongsuIndoor159 Achasan-ro. Flagship, full collection + Khakis 1F. 20 min
  • 14:22ShoppingMarket In UIndoorAchasan-ro 166, 2F. Curated imported vintage. 20 min
  • 14:50ShoppingFrizmWorks at Common GroundIndoor건대입구역 (2 stops from Seongsu). Container mall, only Seoul FrizmWorks store. 25 min
  • 15:20Flex gap: Gangnam + Starfield Library, Apgujeong shopping run, or hotel rest
  • 17:30DinnerGebangsikdangIndoorGejang bibimbap (₩21k solo). Reopens 5:30 PM after break. 60 minReserve on CatchTable — ₩20k deposit
  • ~18:45Evening walk: Seongsu → Seoul Forest → Han RiverSunset walk through Seoul Forest (lit paths, Metasequoia, Mirror Pond) → Ttukseom Han River Park (bridge reflections, Gangnam skyline). ~2 hrs
  • ~20:30Subway homeTtukseom or Seongsu → Anguk
🌧️ Rain plan
Seoul Forest → extend Seongsu cafe crawl + neighborhood walk (covered streets). Skip Haebangchon (steep hills in rain) → Gangnam/COEX (all indoor).
Mon, Apr 6 Hongdae / Mangwon / Mapo / Yeouido
☁ 14°/6° 35%
Flex day · 3 coffee anchors · Cherry blossoms 50-80% bloom
💴 Bring ₩10-20k cash for Mangwon Market

☕ Fixed Anchors

  • 8:00CoffeeLounge ClarimentoIndoorHapjeong. Pour-over + moist toast. Plush vintage airport lounge vibe. 25 min
  • <4:30CoffeeDorae KnotIndoorMangwon. Closes 4:30 PM Monday! Cardamom buns (3 days to make). Light roasters. 20 min
  • 12-6CoffeeJohn Small RoasteryIndoorHapjeong/Yongsan. Opens noon, closes 6 PM. #1 want to go. Tiramisu. 25 min

🌅 Morning (confirmed)

  • 8:40Mangwon neighborhood walkPartialLocal streets, bakeries, small shops. 30 min
  • 9:15Mangwon MarketRain-OKKorean bakery snacks: kkwabaegi, tteok, gangjeong. Some stalls closed Mon. 30 min₩10-20k cash

🍲 Lunch — pick one

  • #1Lunch⭐ 명품잔치국수 (Myeongpum Janchi Guksu)Indoor★4.9 janchi guksu + mandu = ₩13k. "Taxi driver restaurant." Nr Mangwon Stn. Walk-in. Opens 10:00.
  • #2Lunch순대일번지 (Sundae Ilbeonji)Indoor60-yr sundae-guk institution. ~₩10k. TV famous. Opens 11:45. Mangwon. Walk-in.
  • #3Lunch돈수백 (Donsubek)Indoor17-yr pork gukbap. ₩9-13k. Modern cafe-style. 3 min from Hongdae stn. Opens 11AM Mon.

🛍 Shopping (flex)

  • 11+ShoppingCovernat + thisisneverthat HongdaeIndoorJandari-ro. Both open 11 AM. 15 min each
  • 10+ShoppingRoot HongdaeIndoorWarehouse-style budget vintage. Denim + outerwear. Open 10AM-2AM
  • flexShoppingMode-ManIndoorDenim specialist (Orslow, Full Count). Yeonnam-dong or Hyundai Seoul Yeouido
  • 11+T1 Base CampIndoorEsports PC bang + merch. ₩3k/hr. 30 min

🌸 Activities — pick based on weather/energy

  • flex🌸 Yeouido Cherry BlossomsOutdoor1.7km cherry tunnel. Monday = less crowded. 50-80% bloom. Best: early AM or golden hour. 1.5-2 hrs
  • flexYeonnam-dong / Gyeongui Line Forest ParkOutdoorSunken converted railway + cafes. 5 min from Hongdae. Mode-Man + Mandong Bakery here. 45-90 min
  • flex🌸 Seonyudo ParkOutdoorIndustrial ruins + cherry blossoms. Walk from Hapjeong across bridge (~20 min). Can connect to Yeouido. 1-1.5 hrs
  • flex🌸 Hapjeong Cherry Blossom StreetOutdoorCherry tunnel near Hapjeong Stn Exit 5. Right where John Small is. 15-20 min

🍽 Dinner — pick one

  • #1Dinner⭐ 복성각 (Bokseong-gak)IndoorKorean-Chinese jjamppong ₩8-10k. 24hr. 60-yr institution. Gongdeok. Unique to Korea.
  • #2Dinner희정식당 (Heejeong Sikdang)IndoorBudae jjigae ₩13k. 수요미식회 famous. Yeouido. Open til 23:00. Uniquely Korean.
  • #3Dinner황금콩밟 (Hwanggeum Kongbat)IndoorMichelin Bib Gourmand tofu ₩10-20k. Aehyeon. Fresh daily. Closes 21:30.
  • #4Dinner백년토종삼계탕 (Baeknyeon Samgyetang)IndoorGinseng chicken ₩17-23k. Nr Hongdae. 1 chicken per person = inherently solo.
  • #5Dinner아웃닫 (Out-dak)IndoorLocal fried chicken ₩15-20k. Hongdae. ★4.4. Opens 4PM. Open late.

🍞 Korean Bakeries & Snacks

  • mktMangwon Market: 꼬배기 + 떨 + 강정Twisted donuts 2/₩1k, fresh rice cakes, sesame gangjeong. Solnamu Tteokjip, Mangwon Goroke, Seokgyune Hangwa
  • 9:30+푸하하크림빵 (Fuhaha Cream Bread)IndoorTV-featured Korean cream bread master. Salt cream bread ₩3k. Nr Hongdae stn.
  • 11+만동제과 (Mandong Bakery)IndoorGarlic + cucumber baguette (Korean innovations). ★4.7. Yeonnam-dong.
📌 Suggested day flows
Flow A — Seonyudo → Yeouido: Clarimento → Mangwon → Dorae Knot → Lunch → Hongdae shops → John Small → Seonyudo → Yeouido blossoms → Dinner (희정식당) → Hangang sunset

Flow B — Yeonnam-dong: Clarimento → Mangwon → Dorae Knot → Lunch (순대일번지 11:45) → Yeonnam-dong + Forest Park + Mode-Man → Hongdae shops → John Small → Dinner (복성각 or 삼계탕)

Flow C — Early Yeouido: Clarimento → Yeouido blossoms (quiet AM) → Lunch (희정식당) → Mangwon → Dorae Knot (<4:30!) → Hongdae shops → John Small → Dinner (황금콩밟 17:30)

Flow D — Max flex: Clarimento → explore freely → Dorae Knot <4:30 → John Small 12-6 → Dinner (복성각 24hr) → Yeouido night blossoms if energy
🌧️ Rain plan
Skip Yeouido/Seonyudo/cherry blossom walks. Extend Mangwon Market (covered). Hongdae underground shopping + more cafes. All lunch/dinner spots are indoor.
Tue, Apr 7 Euljiro / DDP / Neighborhoods / Last Night
☁ 13°/5° 40%
Choose your afternoon flow · 4 options · pack by 10 PM
💴 Cash for Namdaemun vendors (if Flow A or C)
  • Fixed Morning
  • 7:30BakeryArtist Bakery (아티스트 베이커리)IndoorSalt bread takeout. 25 min
  • 8:35Taegeukdang (태극당)IndoorSeoul's oldest bakery (est. 1946). Monaka ice cream + butter bread. 30 min
  • 9:25Euljiro printing alleysPartial을지로11길, 13길, 14길. Active printing shops. 40 min
  • 10:15DDP (Dongdaemun Design Plaza)PartialExterior + interior spiral staircase + free exhibition. 30 min
  • 11:00LunchWoo Lae Oak (우래옥)IndoorPyongyang mul-naengmyeon. Michelin Bib. Queue via Tabling from 11:00. 50 min
🏠 Choose Your Afternoon Flow (from 12:00)

Flow A — Balanced Explorer (7.5 km, home by 18:50)
Sewoon Sangga rooftop → Coffee Hanyakbang → Jeokdang sweets → Namsangol Hanok Village → Fritz Coffee Jangchung → Namdaemun Market → Seoullo 7017 → Bukchon walk → Tosokchon samgyetang dinner

Flow B — Adventurous Hiker ⭐ (9.5 km, home by 19:15)
Sewoon Sangga → Hotel Soosunhwa → Bunkasha → Hipdang-dong warehouses → Susanna’s Apron → Dongdaemun City Wall golden hour → Imun Seolnongtang dinner (124 yrs old) → Cheonggyecheon stream night walk

Flow C — Food Maximizer (8 km, home by 19:35)
Sewoon rooftop → Asoto Bakery → Gallery → Jeokdang → Coffee Hanyakbang → Namdaemun galchi-jorim dinner #1 → Seoullo 7017 → Deoksugung stone wall → Goryeo samgyetang dinner #2 → Naksan Park night walk → Cafe Onion

Flow D — Neighborhood Collector + Spa (10 km, home by 20:35)
Sewoon Sangga → TONES coffee → Chungmuro street art → Namsangol → Fritz Coffee → Hipdang-dong → Jeokdang → Bukchon → Samgyetang dinner → Sparex jjimjilbang

🌧️ Rain plan
Hotel Soosunhwa → Namdaemun (covered) → Kyobo Bookstore Gwanghwamun → indoor dinner → Cafe Onion Anguk. Flow D is naturally most rain-proof.

Tokyo — Ginza

東京 Apr 8 – 15
Flight
10:25 AM
ICN
NRT
Date
Wed, Apr 8
Arrival
12:55 PM
Airline
Jeju Air 7C 1103
Conf #
EEUN2K
Cost
₩220,600
Transfer to Tokyu Stay Ginza via Narita Express or Limousine Bus (~1.5-2 hrs)
Wed, Apr 8 Seoul → Tokyo
⛅20°/12°15%
  • 10:25TransitDepart ICNJeju Air 7C 1103
  • 12:55TransitArrive NRTTransfer to Ginza (~1.5-2 hrs). Narita Express ~¥2,100 or Limousine Bus
  • ~15:00Tokyu Stay GinzaCheck in, rest, explore Ginza neighborhood
Thu, Apr 9 Jogasaki Coast + Mt. Omuro Tentative
Weather-contingent day trip · volcanic cliff hike + crater volcano
  • Jogasaki CoastOutdoorVolcanic cliff hike + suspension bridge along the Izu coast
  • Mt. OmuroOutdoorCrater volcano with panoramic views, chairlift to summit
Friday, April 10
Unplanned — explore Tokyo
Saturday, April 11
Unplanned — explore Tokyo
Sun, Apr 12 Explore Tokyo
  • 14:30LunchGinza Hachigo (銀座 八五)IndoorRenowned ramen, Ginza. Booked
  • 19:00DinnerFilejaIndoorPasta omakase, 6 seats, Kanda. Booked. Free cancel by Apr 8 7 PM
Mon, Apr 13 Nikko Day Trip Tentative
Weather permitting · shrine + nature + yakuzen lunch
  • Nikko shrines & natureOutdoorToshogu Shrine, cedar avenue, waterfalls
  • LunchShakankan (シャカンカン)IndoorYakuzen (medicinal herb) cuisine
Tue, Apr 14 Kamakura + Enoshima Tentative
Weather permitting · coastal food crawl
  • KamakuraOutdoorGreat Buddha, Komachi-dori street food, temples
  • EnoshimaOutdoorIsland exploration, coastal views, fresh shirasu
Wednesday, April 15
Unplanned — explore Tokyo

Nakameguro

中目黒 Neighborhood Guide
Centered on the Meguro River promenade — tree-lined canal with boutiques, cafes, and restaurants on both sides. The Koukashita (高架下) is a 700m commercial strip under the elevated tracks at the station. Bleeds into Daikanyama (~15 min walk south) and Ebisu. Most shops open 11am–noon, close 7–8pm. Start with morning coffee, then shop/eat your way south.
Suggested Walking Route
9:00 ONIBUS Coffee — single-origin pour-over
9:30 City Bakery pretzel croissant or Flour+Water brunch
11:00 Koukashita → Tsutaya Books → I'm donut?
11:30 Meguro River south → 1LDK → Bamboo Shoots → JANTIQUES
12:30 Johann cheesecake by the river
13:00 Lunch: Kitchen Punch (yoshoku) or AFURI (ramen) or Uotsune (sashimi, weekdays)
14:00 Aobadai side → BEST PACKING STORE → Coverchord → SO Nakameguro
15:30 VISVIM General Store + little cloud coffee
16:30 Continue into Daikanyama for Okura (indigo artisan)
17:30 Criollo phantom cheesecake or Patisserie 1904 lemon cake (¥212!)
☕ Coffee
ONIBUS COFFEE オニバスコーヒー Must ¥600–800
Address2-14-1 Kamimeguro, Meguro-ku
Station中目黒駅 west exit, 2–3 min walk
Hours9:00–18:00 daily
OrderHand-drip single origin (rotating Ethiopia, Kenya, Colombia), Cafe Latte
SoloYes — counter seating in a converted traditional 2-story house
TakeoutYes
PaymentCash likely preferred
One of Tokyo's most respected light-roast roasters. In-house roasting visible from seating. Serious coffee essential.
Cafe Facon カフェ ファソン Must ¥700–1.5k
Address3-8-3 Kamimeguro, Sendai Nakameguro Bldg Annex 3F
Station中目黒駅 west exit, 2 min walk
Hours10:00–22:00 (irregular closures)
OrderHand-drip (25–30 bean varieties), “Magic Coffee Jelly” (theatrical layered dessert drink), Basque cheesecake
SoloYes — counter, sofa, table seating
PaymentCards accepted
Tabelog 3.75. Pioneered third-wave coffee in Nakameguro. Open until 10pm — rare. The Magic Coffee Jelly is theatrical.
Mametora Roastery 豆虎 中目黒焙煎所 ¥200–1k
Address3-3-7 Kamimeguro, Meguro-ku
Station中目黒駅, 1 min walk
Hours11:00–21:00 daily
OrderMade-to-order roasted single origin, Geisha beans, coffee soft serve with bean toppings
SoloYes — 3 counter seats, primarily takeout
They roast beans to order on gas-fired roasters while you watch. Lunch special: ¥200 iced coffee. Rare Geisha beans.
SIDEWALK STAND サイドウォーク スタンド Partial ¥600–800
Address1-23-14 Aobadai, Meguro-ku
Station中目黒駅, 6 min walk along Meguro River
Hours9:00–21:00 (food until 20:00)
OrderAmericano, latte, orange chocolate chip pound cake
Daily on-site roasting. Stunning Meguro River promenade location. Best in good weather.
little cloud coffee inside VISVIM ¥600–1k
LocationInside VISVIM General Store, 1-22-11 Aobadai
Hours11:00–20:00
OrderCraft coffee served in Kutani porcelain cups
Combine coffee with browsing visvim’s heritage craft compound. Art museum atmosphere.
Swell Coffee Roasters ¥600–1k
Address上目黒1-11-1 OAK BLDG II
HoursMon 9–20; Tue–Fri 9–23:30; Sat–Sun 8–23:30
OrderCafe latte — barista placed 2nd in World Latte Art Championship
Beautiful latte art guaranteed. Open absurdly late (23:30 most days). Reusable cup program.
Starbucks Reserve Roastery スタバ リザーブ (Kengo Kuma) ¥600–1.5k
Address青葉台2-19-23 (13 min walk from station)
Hours7:00–22:00
OrderReserve single-origin pour-over, Teavana tea (2F). The Kengo Kuma building IS the experience
SoloYes — 4 floors, multiple counter areas
4-floor roastery designed by Kengo Kuma along Meguro River. Great rainy-day destination. Sakura views from terraces.
🍲 Food & Restaurants
Kitchen Punch キッチン パンチ Must ¥1–2k ¥ Cash only
TypeYoshoku (omurice, hamburger, fried foods)
Address上目黒2-7-10
Station中目黒駅 3 min walk
HoursTue–Fri lunch 11:30–14:00; Sat 11:30–14:30; some dinners 18:00–20:30. Closed Mon/Sun
Order全のっけ (zen-nokke) — stack ALL yoshoku classics on one plate. Legendary.
SoloYes — 15 seats, counter available, solo diners are the norm
Wait15–30 min lunch. Walk-in only, no reservations
Tabelog 3.71, 百名店 (Top 100). Since 1966. The “nokke” concept of stacking comfort food is genius. CASH ONLY.
Uotsune ウオツネ Must ¥1,600 lunch
TypeSeafood / sashimi teishoku
Address上目黒1-6-8 日の出ビル1F
Station中目黒駅 2 min walk
HoursLunch 11:30–14:00 Mon–Fri ONLY; Dinner 17:00–22:30. Closed Sun/holidays
Order特上刺身定食 (¥1,600) — premium Toyosu-direct sashimi with rice & miso
SoloYes — counter seating
ReserveLunch walk-in. Dinner: phone 03-3710-9719
PaymentMajor credit cards accepted
Toyosu-direct fish at ¥1,600 — quality rivals places charging 2–3x more. Weekday lunch only!
AFURI 阿夫利 中目黒 ¥1–1.5k Cashless only
TypeRamen (yuzu shio)
Address上目黒1-23-1 中目黒アリーナ1F
Station中目黒駅 1 min walk
Hours11:00–23:00, no holidays
Order柚子塩らーめん (yuzu shio ramen) — signature aromatic yuzu broth. Also: tsukemen
SoloYes — counter seating, ticket machine
Wait10–20 min weekdays. Walk-in only
Tokyo’s most iconic ramen — born at this Nakameguro location. Light yuzu broth unlike anything else. NO CASH.
Menya Mikan 麺や みかん ¥1–1.5k
TypeRamen (neo-nostalgic)
Address上目黒2-18-9
Station中目黒駅 3 min walk
Hours10:00–21:00, closed Wednesdays
Order中華そば with 炭火吹るし焼きチャーシュー (charcoal-grilled hanging chashu)
SoloYes — counter, ticket machine
PaymentCards, e-money, QR accepted
Tabelog 3.71. Opened 2024, already a local favorite. Exceptional chashu, minimal wait.
Ramen Hayashida らぁ麺 はやし田 ¥1–1.5k
TypeRamen (duck-chicken double broth)
Address上目黒3-4-15 中目黒高架下 D-6
Station中目黒駅 30 seconds (inside Koukashita)
Hours11:00–23:00, no holidays
Order醬油らぁ麺 — elegant duck + Daisen chicken broth
30 seconds from station, inside the Koukashita. Quick, refined, open late.
Oniyamma おにやんま ¥500–1k Cashless only
TypeSanuki udon (standing/counter)
Address上目黒3-3-1
Station中目黒駅 2 min walk
HoursMon–Fri 7:00–23:00, Sat–Sun 7:00–15:00
Orderちくわ天ぶっかけうどん (chikuwa tempura bukkake udon)
SoloYes — counter-only, designed for solo. Breakfast udon from 7am!
Wait0–10 min
Tabelog 3.62. Thick hand-made noodles, absurdly cheap. Opens 7am for breakfast udon. NO CASH.
Kakura 香食楽 ¥1.5–1.7k lunch
TypeMedicinal/herbal curry (薬膳カレー)
Address上目黒2-42-13
Station中目黒駅 6 min walk
HoursMon 12–15:00; Thu–Fri 12–15, 18–21; Sat–Sun 12–21. Closed Tue/Wed
OrderYakuzen curry (4 types). Lunch set = free rice refills + drink bar
ReserveWalk-in weekdays. Weekends: phone 03-6303-0236, IG DM, or Tabelog
Tabelog 3.59. Unique herbal/medicinal curry — spices for flavor AND wellness. Can’t get this elsewhere.
Sekiya Spaghetti 関谷スパゲティ ALL ¥730!
TypeFresh hand-rolled pasta
Address上目黒3-1-2 1F
Station中目黒駅 3 min walk
Hours11:30–23:00, no holidays
Orderナポリタン or 味噌ミート (miso meat) — 300g fresh noodles per serving
Tabelog 3.49, 1,389 reviews. Every pasta ¥730 — insane value. Massive 300g portions. Open late.
Khlong Saiam クルン・サイアム ¥1k lunch
TypeThai restaurant
Station中目黒駅 3 min walk
HoursLunch 11:30–15:30, Dinner 17:00–22:00
OrderPad thai, tom yum goong, gapao rice. Great value lunch sets
One of Tokyo’s most well-regarded Thai chains. Fast, flavorful, solo-friendly.
Art Kissaten Fry アート喜茶フライ ¥1–1.5k
TypeRetro kissaten (yoshoku + coffee)
Address東山1-3-6 クレール東山201
Station中目黒駅 5 min walk
Hours11:30–23:00, no holidays
Orderオムライス with classic tomato sauce. Free coffee/tea with lunch
Hidden gem. Showa-era retro aesthetic with rotating art exhibitions. Open late, free coffee with lunch.
Fujiki Tonkatsu 富士㎓ 中目黒 ¥1,480–1,680 ¥ Cash only
TypeTonkatsu specialist (whole-pig sourcing)
Station中目黒駅 5 min walk
HoursMon–Fri 11:30–15:30, 17:00–22:00; Sat/Sun 11:00–22:00
Order厚切りロースカツ定食 (thick-cut loin), 三品盛り合わせ (3-item assortment)
SoloYes — counter facing kitchen. Walk-in OK
Proper tonkatsu with whole-pig sourcing. CASH ONLY.
Toriyoshi 鳥よし 中目黒本店 Must ¥6–9k ¥ Cash only
TypePremium yakitori — Tabelog Top 100 (3.74)
Address上目黒2-8-6 谷島ビル1F
Station中目黒駅 3 min walk
HoursMon, Wed–Sun from 16–17:00. Closed Tuesdays
Orderおまかせ (chef’s choice) at the counter — 伊達鶏 served skewer by skewer
ReserveNO reservations — first-come only. Arrive early
SoloYes — gorgeous hinoki counter is the main seating. Many solo diners
Paris “YAKITORI” pioneer’s original shop. CASH ONLY. No reservations — arrive early.
Kittan Gyoza 吉旦餃子 ¥1–2k
TypeHandmade additive-free gyoza
Station中目黒駅 2 min walk
HoursMon–Fri 16:00–23:30; Sat/Sun 12:00–23:30
Order焼き餃子, 海老餃子 (shrimp), cheese pork shoulder gyoza (¥900)
Small, casual gyoza specialist. Good for a late snack. Reservable on Tabelog.
Katsu Midori 回し寿司 活 美登利 (Meguro Stn) from ¥130/plate
TypeHigh-quality conveyor belt sushi (1 stop from Nakameguro)
Addressアトレ目黒2 1F (inside Meguro Station)
Hours11:00–21:00
Order大トロ (otoro), seasonal specials. 250+ item menu
SoloYes — counter rail, high solo traffic, fast turnover
Excellent sushi at conveyor belt prices. Walk-in queue moves fast. Cards accepted.
Onigily Cafe オニギリーカフェ ¥180–300/onigiri
TypeStylish onigiri cafe — 16 varieties, Nagano Koshihikari rice
Station中目黒駅 5 min walk
Hours8:00–16:00 (closes early!)
OrderBreakfast set (2 onigiri + miso, ¥700), 肉巻きおにぎり (meat-wrapped, ¥300)
Perfect solo breakfast spot. Terrace seating on sunny mornings. Cards + e-money accepted.
Hanuri ハヌリ 中目黒 ¥800 lunch
TypeKorean market-stall concept
Station中目黒駅 2 min walk
Hours11:30–23:30 (Fri/Sat til 4am)
OrderLunch: samgyeopsal or cheese dakgalbi + unlimited salad bar (~¥800). Dinner: ナッコプセ, ユッケ
¥800 lunch sets with unlimited salad bar. Great solo value. Cards, e-money, PayPay accepted.
Tempura Miyashiro 天婦羅 みやしろ ¥15–20k+
TypeMichelin-starred tempura (7 consecutive years)
Station中目黒駅 3 min walk (unmarked entrance, 100-yr-old nagaya)
Orderおまかせコース only — seasonal tempura fried to order at counter
ReserveREQUIRED (完全予約制). Book well in advance
SoloYes — counter-only, intimate experience
7-year Michelin-starred. Hidden in a 100-year-old nagaya with no signage. Splurge-worthy rainy day option.
🍞 Bakeries
Trasparente トラスパレンテ Must ¥300–800
Station中目黒駅 3 min walk
Order50+ varieties daily — Italian/French traditions. Croissants, focaccia, baguettes
TakeoutYes
Tabelog Pan Top 100 Bakeries. Italian-trained chef, opened 2008. Enormous variety.
Flour+Water フラワーアンドウォーター ¥500–1.5k
Station中目黒駅 5 min walk
Order“Angel Croissant” (天使のクロワッサン) with French AOP butter. Savory veg breads, brunch plates
Integrated bakery-brunch concept. Great for a slow solo morning. Opened 2022.
Sawamura 沢村 中目黒 ¥800–2k
OrderNatural-starter sourdough, long-fermentation breads (~30 wheat varieties)
PaymentCards accepted
Originally from Karuizawa (luxury mountain resort). Meticulous wheat selection. Most refined bakery in the area. Good rainy-day lingering spot.
The City Bakery ザ シティ ベーカリー ¥400–1k
LocationDirectly at 中目黒駅
OrderPretzel Croissant — THE signature item. Chewy, salty, buttery
Iconic NYC institution (est. 1990). Perfect grab-and-go before exploring. Right at the station.
🍰 Sweets & Walking Snacks
Johann Cheesecake チーズケーキ ヨハン Must ~¥500/slice
Address上目黒1-18-15 (along Meguro River)
Station中目黒駅 3 min walk
Hours10:00–18:30 (Apr–Sep)
OrderOnly 4 varieties: Natural (classic), Blueberry, Sour, Mellow. Get the Natural first
Since 1978 — “grandpa’s cheesecake shop.” Tabelog 3.75. Buy a slice, eat by the river. Can sell out afternoons.
Criollo エコール・クリオロ Must ¥1–2k
Station中目黒駅 2 min walk
Hours11:00–19:00 daily
Order“Phantom Cheesecake” (famous lightweight texture), rum-scented Mont Blanc
Tabelog 3.78 — highest-rated cake shop in Nakameguro. Award-winning pastry chef.
I'm donut? アイムドーナツ ¥300–500
AddressInside 蒲屋書店 (Tsutaya Books), 上目黒1-22-10
Hours9:00–19:00
Order生ドーナツ (nama donut) — pillowy brioche-style. Get 2–3 varieties
Wait5–15 min weekdays, 30+ weekends. Go morning or mid-afternoon
The original location of Tokyo’s most hyped donut. Texture like eating a cloud.
Patisserie 1904 パティスリー 1904 ¥212!
Address東山2-5-8
Hours10:00–19:00, closed Tuesdays & 3rd Mondays
OrderShimanami Lemon Cake (Ehime Prefecture lemons, retro candy-style packaging)
Best value snack in Nakameguro. ¥212 lemon cake with charming retro packaging.
Mousseline モスリン ~¥999
Address上目黒2-18-10 (Meguro Ginza street)
HoursVending machine 24/7; counter 9:00–19:00
OrderPlain chiffon, Earl Grey, salted caramel, cappuccino chocolate. GF rice flour options
24-hour chiffon cake vending machine. Featured on CNN. Uniquely Japanese late-night snack.
Miyabi An 菓匠 みやび庵 ¥500–1.5k
TypeTraditional wagashi (和菓子)
Hours10:00–18:00 (Sun til 17:00), closed Tuesdays
OrderWarabi mochi (signature), mame daifuku, sakura mochi (spring seasonal)
Certified “Exceptional Wagashi Artisan.” 100% domestic mochi rice, Hokkaido red beans.
Tamagawaya 御菓子司 玉川屋 Affordable
Hours9:00–18:00
OrderButter Dorayaki (bestseller!), Meguro Nioumochi
Operating since 1923 — over 100 years. The butter dorayaki is a local legend.
Green Bean to Bar Chocolate グリーンビーン ¥1.6–3k
Address青葉台2-16-11
Hours11:00–21:00, closed Wednesdays
OrderBonbon Chocolate Box 4-piece (¥1,600), single-origin bars
Full bean-to-bar production in-house. Great solo self-treat or small gift.
Premar­ché Gelateria プレマルシェ ~¥500–900
Address上目黒2-9-36 (1 min from station)
Hours12:00–20:00, closed Thursdays
Order40+ rotating flavors, 70% non-dairy. Houjicha, seasonal fruit sorbets. 3x World Gelato Contest winner
Award-winning artisan gelato — perfect hot-day treat. Grab and walk along the river.
Mahakala Pudding うれしいプリン屋さん ~¥420
Address青葉台1-17-5 メゾン青葉1F
Hours11:00–18:00
OrderCustard pudding (“Japan’s most particular eggs”), White Pudding milk coffee flavor
¥420 rich egg yolk pudding. Tiny takeout shop — zero pressure, perfect solo snack.
Cacahouete Paris カカオエット・パリ ¥500–800
TypeFrench patisserie (since 2006, chef Jérôme Quesnel)
Hours10:00–19:00, closed Tuesdays + 1st/3rd Mondays
OrderSquare choux cream (四角いシュークリーム), jarred puddings (瓶プリン)
Jewel-like French pastries by a French chef in Nakameguro. Takeout or small eat-in.
Kindan Kajitsu 禁断果実 (“Forbidden Fruit”) ~¥600
TypeFruit sandwich cafe
Address中目黒2-7-7 1F
Hours8:00–18:00 (fruit sandwiches from ~9:30)
OrderSeasonal フルーツサンド — vibrant cross-sections of premium fruit with cream
Beautiful fruit sandwiches — great morning fuel or sakura picnic takeout.
Kajitsuen Liébel 果実園リーベル (Meguro Stn) parfaits ~¥1.8k
TypeFruit parlor (near Meguro Station, walkable)
HoursMon–Thu/Sun 7:30–20:00; Fri/Sat 7:30–21:00
OrderSeasonal fruit parfait — towering, overflowing with fresh fruit. 25+ years expertise
SoloYes — counter seats, common solo. Reservable on HotPepper
Instagram-worthy fruit parfaits. Morning fruit plates also excellent.
👚 Shopping & Clothing
BEST PACKING STORE ベストパッキングストア Must
Address1-23-5 Aobadai, Meguro-ku 1F
Station中目黒駅 ~7 min walk
Hours12:00–19:00
BrandsLEMAIRE, Maison Margiela, MARNI, Our Legacy, Porter Classic, Salomon Advanced
PricePremium to Luxury
Carries LEMAIRE — direct hit on your brand list. Porter Classic = Japanese workwear. “Travel” concept.
VISVIM General Store ヴィズヴィム Must
Address1-22-11 Aobadai, Meguro-ku
Station中目黒駅 ~8 min walk (toward Daikanyama)
Hours11:00–20:00
Brandsvisvim, WMV, Indigo Camping Trailer, CONTRARY DEPT, PEERLESS, Subsequence
PriceLuxury
Hiroki Nakamura’s HQ — renovated 1970s house compound. Art museum feel. Houses little cloud coffee. The ultimate Japanese heritage/craft experience.
JANTIQUES ジャンティーク Must
TypeVintage / antique — specializing in vintage denim
Address2-25-13 Kamimeguro (Nakameguro Ginza street)
Station中目黒駅 ~5 min walk
Hours12:00–20:00
PriceBudget to Mid-range (varies)
One of Japan’s most respected vintage shops. Draws denim enthusiasts from across the country. Remake items (hats from denim, sunglasses) are unique souvenirs.
1LDK ワンエルディーケー Must
Address#1A, 1-8-28 Kamimeguro
Station中目黒駅 ~3 min walk
Hours13:00–19:00 Mon-Fri; 12:00–19:00 Sat-Sun
BrandsUNIVERSAL PRODUCTS, Studio Nicholson, Kaptain Sunshine, MM6, Maison Margiela
PriceMid-range to Premium
The godfather of Nakameguro select shops. “The extraordinary within the ordinary” — elevated daily basics. Sister store 1LDK Apartments nearby.
Okura おくら (Daikanyama, 15 min walk) Must
TypeIndigo / natural dye specialist
Address20-11 Sarugaku-cho, Shibuya-ku (Daikanyama)
Station代官山駅 ~5 min / 中目黒駅 ~15 min
Hours11:30–20:00 Mon-Fri; 11:00–20:30 Sat-Sun
PriceMid-range to Premium
Essential for Blue Blue Japan fans. Natural indigo artisan craft in a beautiful traditional building. Uniquely Japanese.
Bamboo Shoots バンブーシュート
Address1-5-10 Kamimeguro (along Meguro River)
Hours11:00–19:00
BrandsThe North Face Purple Label (Japan exclusive!), Arc’teryx, White Mountaineering, TEATORA
Pioneer of outdoor×fashion since 1998. TNF Purple Label pieces are unique souvenirs — can’t buy outside Japan.
Coverchord カバーコード
Address1-23-14 Aobadai (Saito Bldg 1F)
Hours11:00–19:00 daily
PriceMid-range to Premium
Elevated menswear, sneakers, bags, homeware. Good for discovering lesser-known Japanese labels.
SO Nakameguro ソー中目黒
Address1-6-52 Aobadai
HoursVaries — check IG @so_nkm
BrandsC.P. Company, District Vision, Mammut, by Parra, ceramics
Renovated 3-story house, eclectic curation. Easy to walk past — look for it. More adventurous than 1LDK.
DROP ドロップ
TypeAmerican West Coast vintage
Address1-15-5 Aobadai
Hours13:00–21:00
Buyer hand-picks items driving ~5,000km across the US West Coast. Open late (9pm) — good evening browse.
📚 Lifestyle & Culture
Tsutaya Books 中目黒 蒲屋書店
LocationNakameguro Koukashita (under the tracks) — directly connected to station
Hours10:00–22:00 (Starbucks 7:00–22:00)
WhatBooks, magazines, stationery, design goods across 4 themed zones
Art/design/fashion book curation. Browse Japanese fashion magazines. Starbucks inside for a coffee meeting point.
waltz ワルツ
TypeCassette tape & record store
Address4-15-5 Nakameguro (10 min walk from station)
Hours13:00–19:00, closed Monday
What~4,500 cassette tapes, vinyl records, VHS, vintage magazines, boomboxes. Listening station
Possibly the world’s premier cassette tape store. Incredible atmosphere. Vintage magazines good for fashion reference.
TRAVELER’S FACTORY トラベラーズファクトリー Must
TypeStationery / leather notebooks — TRAVELER’S COMPANY flagship
Address上目黒3-13-10 (3 min walk south exit)
Hours12:00–20:00, closed Tuesdays
WhatCustomizable leather Traveler’s Notebooks, brass accessories, stamps, vintage paper goods. Small café corner. Renovated candy-box factory
Price¥400–5,000 (notebooks ~¥4,000)
Leather ages beautifully — very aligned with heritage/natural materials taste. Great rainy-day browse.
COW BOOKS カウブックス
TypeCurated vintage bookstore (art, photography, counterculture)
Address青葉台1-14-11 (along Meguro River)
Hours12:00–19:00, closed Mondays
Price¥500–10,000+
Tiny, iconic shop curated by former magazine editor. COW BOOKS tote bags are a classic Tokyo souvenir.
Art Atelier du Travail アールアトリエ
TypeLeather goods workshop & shop (Tochigi leather / 栃木レザー)
Address中目黒3-4-6 関口ビル1F
Hours11:00–20:00
WhatHandmade bags, sandals, wallets. Leathercraft workshops from ¥5,000
Japan’s finest vegetable-tanned leather. Workshop = great rainy-day activity. Pieces develop beautiful patina.
Green Scape グリーンスケープ
TypeBonsai & moss ball (苔玉) shop
Address上目黒1-18-4 (2 min from station)
Hours11:00–19:00, closed Wednesdays
WhatMini bonsai, moss balls, handmade ceramic pots by veteran potter. Monthly workshops
Price¥2,000–15,000
Miniature bonsai as living art — uniquely Japanese, portable, beautiful gift.
The Vintage Hook ザ ヴィンテージフック
TypeVintage clothing — workwear, military, denim focus
Address青葉台1-14-2 (9 min walk)
Hours13:00–20:00 daily
Price¥3,000–30,000
More focused on heritage workwear and denim than the other vintage shops — strong fit for your taste.
💰 Payment warnings
CASH ONLY: Kitchen Punch, Fujiki Tonkatsu, Toriyoshi Yakitori — bring ¥5,000+
CASHLESS ONLY (no cash): AFURI, Oniyamma
Most others: Cards + cash or verify on arrival
🌧️ Rainy day picks
All food/shopping is indoor. Best rainy day combo: ramen (AFURI or Menya Mikan) → Tsutaya Books → Cafe Facon (open til 10pm) → indoor shopping along Koukashita → Criollo cheesecake

North & East Tokyo

下町 Neighborhood Guide
Seven connected neighborhoods forming a walkable corridor through old-Tokyo shitamachi. From the retro charm of Yanaka to the market energy of Ameyoko, kitchen-tool mecca Kappabashi, temple district Asakusa, artisan hub Kuramae, curry capital Jimbocho, and electric Akihabara. Total walking route ~2.5–3 hrs plus browsing. Cash is king — many spots are cash-only.
Suggested Walking Route (Full Day)
9:30 Yanaka — Kayaba Coffee → VANER bakery → Yanaka Ginza street (menchi, cat donuts)
11:00 Walk through Yanaka Cemetery → Ueno — Usagiya dorayaki, Ameyoko market, HINOYA denim
12:30 Walk along JR tracks → 2k540 Artisan complex → Akihabara (Marugo tonkatsu or Aoshima ramen)
14:00 West to Kappabashi — Kama-Asa knives, Dengama ceramics (20 min walk)
15:00 North to Asakusa — Sensoji, Daikokuya tempura, Kamejuu dorayaki, Nakamise snacks (10 min)
17:00 South along Sumida River → Kuramae — Kabuki coffee, Kakimori, m+, Dandelion Chocolate (15 min)
Alternative: Jimbocho Half-Day
10:00 Jimbocho A7 exit → Komiyama Shoten (art books) → Kanda Brazil coffee
11:30 Curry lunch: Takeuchi (3.84), Bondy (3.68), or Kyoeido (3.72, since 1924)
13:00 Sabouru kissaten (cream soda) or Ladrio (Wiener Coffee, since 1949)
14:00 Walk to Ochanomizu → Akihabara (15 min) to connect with north route
🏡 Yanaka (谷中)
Kayaba Coffeeカヤバ珈琲 (1938)Must¥500–900
TypeKissaten in a 1916 wooden building
StationNezu 8 min / Nippori 10 min
Hours8:00–18:00, closed Monday
OrderTamago sandwich (sourdough), Russian coffee (cocoa+coffee), cream soda
SoloYes — counter 1F, tatami 2F
Since 1938. One of Tokyo’s most iconic kissaten. Heritage building renovated by NPO. Perfect morning coffee before Yanaka.
VANERヴァーネル¥400–1.2k
TypeSourdough bakery in restored 1930s wooden houses
StationNippori 8 min / Nezu 10 min
HoursWed–Fri 9–18; Sat/Sun 8–17. Closed Mon/Tue. Sells out early weekends
OrderCountry sourdough, cinnamon roll, seasonal sandwich
Custom Japanese wheat + rye, house-cultured starter. Scandinavian-meets-Japanese. Magical courtyard setting.
Himitsudoひみつ堂Must¥800–1.5k¥ Cash
TypeKakigori (shaved ice) — Tokyo’s most famous
StationNippori 5 min / Sendagi 3 min
Hours9:00–18:00 (weekends from 8:00). Closed Mon. CASH ONLY
OrderSeasonal fruit syrups — all house-made, additive-free. Natural ice from Nikko
Tokyo’s kakigori pilgrimage spot. Hand-shaved Nikko ice, impossibly fluffy. April waits are manageable.
Niku no Sato肉のサトー~¥250
TypeTakeout menchi katsu (Yanaka Ginza)
HoursTue–Sun 10:00–19:30 (fried from ~12:00). Closed Mon
OrderYanaka Menchi Katsu — Iwate beef + A5 wagyu blend. Cash only
THE Yanaka Ginza icon. Premium beef at street food prices. Eat hot.
Shippoyaやなか しっぽや¥100–160
TypeCat-tail shaped baked donuts (Yanaka Ginza)
Hours10:00–18:00 (weekends til 19:00)
Order“Tora” (cocoa + white choco, tabby pattern) is #1. Not fried, domestic ingredients
Cat-tail donuts in the cat neighborhood. Cheap and charming walking snack.
Yanaka Ginza谷中銀座商店街
TypeTraditional shopping street — ~60 shops, no chains
StationJR Nippori 3 min (enter via Yuyake Dandan staircase)
HoursMost shops 10:00–18:00
One of last authentic shitamachi streets. The “Yuyake Dandan” sunset staircase is famous. Cat-themed everything.
Togijin研ぎ陣
TypeKnife sharpening workshop & shop (Yanaka Ginza)
Hours11:00–17:00, closed Monday
WhatHand-sharpening services (from ~¥1,000), curated knives, scissors
Watch artisan hand-sharpen blades. Good complement to Kappabashi knife shopping.
🍁 Nezu (根津)
Nezu no Taiyaki根津のたい焼きMust · TL 3.72¥210
TypeLegendary taiyaki — one-at-a-time iron molds (天然 style)
StationNezu Station ~5 min
Hours10:00–sold out (~13-14:00). WEEKDAY ONLY — closed Sat/Sun! Cash only
OrderThe taiyaki — crispy thin shell, packed with Hokkaido azuki. Get there by 10:30
Wait30–60 min possible
Tabelog 百名店 2023. One of Tokyo’s best taiyaki. Weekday-only makes it special. Worth the queue.
Nezu Kamachiku根津 釜竹Must · TL 3.66¥1–1.8k lunch
TypeRefined kamaage udon in Meiji-era stone warehouse
StationNezu Station (Exit 1) 3 min
HoursTue–Sat 11:30–15, 17:30–21:30; Sun 11:30–16, 17–20. Closed Mon
Order釜揚げうどん (kamaage udon) — silky noodles with rich dipping broth
ReservePhone/Tabelog. Cards + PayPay accepted
Udon 百名店 6 years, 3x Michelin Bib Gourmand. Stunning renovated kura (storehouse). 40 years in Osaka before relocating here.
🌈 Ueno & Ameyoko (上野)
HINOYAヒノヤ本店Must
TypeHeritage denim & Americana (70+ years in Ameyoko)
StationJR Okachimachi 2 min
Hours10:30–20:10
BrandsPure Blue Japan, Momotaro, ONI, Iron Heart, Sugar Cane, Buzz Rickson’s, Tailor Toyo (sukajan)
THE shop for Japanese heritage denim. Stocks many brands from your taste profile. Essential stop.
UsagiyaうさぎやMust¥240
TypeDorayaki — “Big Three” Tokyo dorayaki (since 1913)
StationUeno-Hirokoji / Ueno-Okachimachi 2 min
Hours9:00–18:00, closed Wed. CASH. Sells out by late afternoon
OrderDorayaki — honey-infused skin, tsubuan (chunky red bean). Thinner, more traditional than Kamejuu
Since 1913. Compare with Kamejuu in Asakusa for the Big Three dorayaki battle.
Usagiya CafeうさぎやCAFE¥500–1k
Hours9:00–18:00, closed Wed
Order“French-yaki” — dorayaki skin pan-fried in butter like French toast + fresh anko + whipped cream
Modern twist on century-old recipe. Small, intimate counter cafe.
Niku no Ohyama肉の大山menchi ¥150
TypeButcher shop takeout + restaurant (since 1932)
StationJR Ueno/Okachimachi 2 min
Hours11:00–23:00 (Sun til 22:00)
OrderYamitstuki Menchi (¥150), Takumi Wagyu Menchi (¥420). Croquettes also great
Ameyoko’s iconic street food. Since 1932. Absurdly cheap, crispy-juicy menchi katsu.
Heisei Fukujun平成福順¥100/piece
TypePan-fried xiaolongbao (under rail tracks)
Hours10:00–20:00 daily. Cash preferred
Order焼き小籠包 (pan-fried soup dumplings, min 4), lamb skewers
Authentic Shanghai-style at ¥100/piece. Bustling market setting under the viaduct.
Anmitsu Mihashiみはし¥600–900
TypeAnmitsu dessert cafe (70+ years)
Hours10:30–21:30. Cards OK
OrderCream anmitsu, matcha anmitsu — perfect agar cubes, rich kuromitsu, handmade red bean
The definitive Tokyo anmitsu. 70+ year institution. 70 seats, solo-friendly.
Mendokoro Hanada麺処 花田TL 3.65~¥1k¥ Cash
TypeMiso ramen — Ramen 百名店
StationJR Ueno (Hirokoji) / Okachimachi 3 min
Hours11:00–22:30, closed Tue. 15 counter seats. CASH ONLY
Order味噌ラーメン — rich miso broth. Free extra veg + garlic daily. Free rice weekday lunch
One of Tokyo’s best miso ramen. Generous free toppings. Late hours make it flexible.
Tonkatsu Yamabeとんかつ山家TL 3.56¥690!¥ Cash
TypeBudget tonkatsu — Tonkatsu 百名店
StationUeno-Okachimachi 3 min
Hours11:00–15:00, 17:00–21:00. 9 counter seats. CASH ONLY
Orderロースかつ定食 (¥690) — 2cm-thick quality cutlet for under ¥700. Absurd value
Possibly Tokyo’s best tonkatsu value. Thick-cut quality pork for ¥690. Queue moves fast.
Minatoyaみなとや¥500 seafood don
TypeTakeout seafood don (Ameyoko market)
StationJR Okachimachi 1 min
Hours11:00–19:00. Cash only
Order特盛丼 (¥800, tuna+salmon+negitoro+ikura+squid) or 鉄火丼 (¥500, basic tuna)
Absurdly cheap fresh seafood in Ameyoko. ¥500 for a real seafood don.
Ameyoko Marketアメ横
TypeOpen-air market — ~400 shops, 500m (Ueno ↔ Okachimachi)
HoursMost 10:00–19:00
Post-war American goods market origin. Seafood, military surplus, vintage workwear, sneakers, street food. Ameyoko Center Building basement = Southeast Asian market vibes.
⚡ Akihabara (秋葉原)
Marugo丸五Must · TL 3.76~¥2k¥ Cash
TypeTonkatsu — Michelin Bib Gourmand, Tabelog 百名店
StationJR Akihabara (Electric Town) 3 min
Hours11:30–15:00, 17:00–21:00. Closed Mon/Tue. CASH ONLY
OrderToku Rosu Katsu (special loin) or Hire Katsu. Walk-in only, 6 counter seats
Wait30–60 min lunch, calmer dinner
Unusually juicy cutlets with delicate breading. Old-school Akihabara institution.
Aoshima Shokudo青島食堂TL 3.75~¥900¥ Cash
TypeRamen (Niigata ginger shoyu)
StationJR Akihabara (Showa-dori) 5 min
HoursMon, Wed–Sun 11:00–17:00. Closed Tue. CASH ONLY. 9 counter seats
OrderAoshima Ramen — ginger-forward shoyu broth, unique in Tokyo
Tokyo outpost of legendary Niigata Nagaoka ramen. Nothing else like it in the city.
Bengalベンガル (1973)TL 3.72~¥1k
TypeCurry — Curry 百名店. Akihabara’s OG since 1973
StationSuehirocho 3 min / Akihabara 7 min
HoursMon/Thu 11:30–15:00; Tue–Sun 11:30–20:30. ⚠️ Verify open (was “on-hold” on Tabelog)
OrderBeef curry — complex sauce with balanced sourness and bitterness. Cards + e-money OK
Since 1973. Real depth — sour, bitter, savory complexity. Featured on “Matsuko no Shiranai Sekai.”
2k540 Aki-Oka ArtisanMust
Type~50 artisan craft shops under JR railway arches
StationAkihabara 6 min / Okachimachi 4 min (between them)
Hours11:00–19:00, closed Wednesday
WhatLeather, woodwork, jewelry, ceramics, textiles, bags. Many are workshop-studios
The anti-Akihabara. Beautiful white-arched corridors full of independent Japanese makers. Photogenic.
Hard Offハードオフ
TypeVintage audio, cameras, electronics, retro games
Hours10:00–20:00. Multiple Akihabara locations
WhatVintage turntables, cameras, watches, junk bins (from ¥100)
Deep stock at great prices. “Junk” sections are treasure hunts. Even browsing is fun.
⛩ Asakusa (浅草)
Daikokuya Tempura大黒家天麐羅 (1887)tendon ~¥1.6k · TL 3.49
StationAsakusa 5 min
Hours11:00–20:00 (Sat til 21). Year-round. Cash preferred
OrderEbi tendon — overflowing shrimp tempura in dark sweet sauce. Unique sesame oil frying
Wait30–60 min weekends, shorter weekdays
Since 1887. The dark sesame oil style is unique. ⚠️ Tabelog 3.49 — polarizing reviews. Long tourist queues for heavy, greasy batter. Some say overrated. Try it for the history, not the food.
Namiki Yabu Soba並木藪蕭麦 (1913)Must · TL 3.65¥900–2k¥ Cash
TypeSoba — one of Tokyo’s “Big Three”
StationAsakusa (Toei A4) 1 min
HoursMon, Tue, Fri–Sun 11:00–19:30. Closed Wed/Thu. CASH ONLY
OrderZaru soba — thin noodles, intensely dark tsuyu. Dip just the tips. Finish with soba-yu
Since 1913. Legendary concentrated tsuyu. The essential Tokyo soba experience.
Owariya尾張屋 (160+ yrs)¥1.5k
Hours11:30–20:00. Closed Friday
OrderTempura soba — comically oversized shrimp tempura overflowing the bowl
160+ years. The oversized shrimp tempura on soba is quintessential Asakusa.
Irokawaうなぎ 色川 (1861)¥3.5–4.1k¥ Cash
TypeUnagi (eel) — tiny old-school shop
StationAsakusa (Toei A1) 1 min
Hours11:30–14:00 (sells out). Closed Sun/holidays. Call 03-3844-1187 to confirm
OrderUnaju — get “tappuri” (generous). Arrive before 12:00
Founded 1861. No-frills, perfectly grilled unagi with delicate tare. One of Asakusa’s last authentic unagi joints.
Kamejuu亀十Must~¥430
TypeDorayaki — Tokyo’s “Big Three”
StationAsakusa 1 min
Hours10:00–19:00. Cash. Can sell out — go before noon. Queue 30–60 min
OrderDorayaki — white bean (shiroan, more unique) or red bean. Fluffy castella-like wrapper
Impossibly fluffy wrapper unlike any normal dorayaki. Compare with Usagiya in Ueno for the Big Three battle.
Kagetudo浅草花月堂¥300
TypeJumbo melon pan (takeout, near Sensoji)
Hours9:00–sold out. Sells 3,000/day
OrderJumbo Melon Pan — slow-fermented, crispy shell, cloud-like inside. Eat immediately
Sells 3,000/day. Fun ¥300 novelty. ⚠️ Tabelog 3.29 — tourist hype. Not worth a long queue, but fine if no line.
Umezono梅園 (1854)¥600–1k
TypeTraditional sweet tea house (kanmidokoro)
Hours10:00–17:00 weekdays, 10:00–18:00 weekends
OrderAwa Zenzai — millet mochi in red bean soup (since 1854). Also: anmitsu
170+ years. The half-pounded millet mochi texture is unique. Perfect rest stop.
Kimuraya木村家本店¥600/8pc
TypeNingyo-yaki (Nakamise-dori, since Meiji era)
Hours9:30–18:30 daily. Cash
OrderNingyo-yaki with anko — 4 Asakusa shapes. Eat hot off the griddle
Original ningyo-yaki shop. Hokkaido Tokachi azuki. Fresh off the griddle = incomparably better than packaged.
Funawa船和 (1902)¥300–800
TypeWagashi — imo yokan (sweet potato jelly)
Hours10:00–19:00 daily
OrderImo Yokan (pure sweet potato, no sugar needed). Anko Tama (jewel-like bean paste balls)
120+ year institution. The anko tama look like candy gems — great portable snack.
Fujiyaふじ屋
TypeHand-dyed tenugui artisan
Hours11:00–17:00, closed Thursday
Price¥1,000–3,000/tenugui
Every design hand-drawn by the master, chusen-dyed. Wearable art. Perfect flat-packing souvenir.
Some-no-Anbo染の安坊 (1907)
TypeHand-dyed tenugui & furoshiki
StationAsakusa 2 min (near Kaminarimon)
Hours10:30–19:00
Wider selection than Fujiya, longer hours. Tenugui framing options. Steps from Kaminarimon.
🍴 Kappabashi Kitchen Town (合羽橋)
Kama-Asa Shoten釜浅商店 (1908)Must
TypeKitchen knives & cookware
StationTawaramachi 7 min
Hours11:00–17:30 daily
WhatJapanese knives (gyuto, santoku, nakiri, deba). Free engraving + sharpening. English/French staff
PriceQuality knives from ~¥10,000
Since 1908. Free custom engraving = incredible souvenir. One of Tokyo’s most respected knife shops.
Dengama田窯Must
TypeJapanese ceramics — 2 floors
StationTawaramachi 5 min
Hours10:00–19:00 daily
WhatArita, Kutani, Mashiko, Mino, Bizen, Shigaraki pottery. Daily-use downstairs, artisan kilns upstairs
Best ceramics in the area. Direct-sourced from kilns. Much better prices than department stores.
Kappabashi Coffee合羽橋珈琲¥500–800
Hours~10:00–18:00
OrderHand-drip blend (choose strong/medium/mild). Ground per-order, one cup at a time
Perfect recharging spot during Kappabashi browsing.
🔨 Kuramae Artisan District (蔵前)
Kabuki蕪木Must¥800–1.2k
TypeCoffee & chocolate kissaten — roaster AND chocolatier
StationKuramae 5 min
HoursWed–Thu 10–18; Fri 10–20; Sat 9–20; Sun 9–18. Closed Tue
OrderCoffee “Haku” (nel drip, ¥800), hot chocolate with single-origin cacao, bonbons
Nel drip (cloth filter) = old-school Japanese craft. Dim, quiet — stepping into another era. One of the most atmospheric cafes in all of Tokyo.
Leaves Coffee Roastersリーブス¥800–3k
StationKuramae 7 min
Hours10:00–17:00, Fri–Mon ONLY
OrderSingle-origin pour-over (ask what’s freshest). Rare processing methods
Sprudge-recognized. Limited days = special occasion feel. Serious coffee pilgrimage.
Coffee Wrightsコーヒーライツ¥680
StationKuramae 2 min
Hours11–16 weekdays; 10–17:30 Sat/Sun. Closed Mon/Tue
OrderHand drip (flavor card provided), cheesecake. Buy 200g beans = free drink
Competition-winning roaster. Watch beans being roasted. Great Kuramae coffee intro.
Dandelion Chocolateダンデライオン¥500–1.2k
StationKuramae 3 min
Hours11:00–18:00 daily
OrderSingle-origin hot chocolate, s’more, brownie. Watch chocolate being made
SF bean-to-bar pioneer. Only 2 ingredients: cacao + sugar. Open factory on 1F.
Pelican CafeペリカンカフェMust · TL 3.71¥800–1.2k
TypeToast cafe (Pelican Bakery est. 1942)
StationTawaramachi / Kuramae ~5 min each
Hours9:00–17:00. Closed Sun/holidays
OrderThick-cut toast (legendary Pelican shokupan). Ham & egg toast sandwich
Pelican only makes shokupan and rolls — and they’ve perfected it since 1942. Extraordinary thick-cut toast.
Ramen Kaiらーめん改Must · TL 3.91!¥900–1.2k¥ Cash
TypeRamen — Ramen 百名店, RDB 95.2. HIGHEST-RATED find in all neighborhoods
StationKuramae (A0) 3 min
Hours11:00–15:00, 17:30–21:00 (or until soup runs out). ~10 counter seats. CASH ONLY
Order貝塩らーめん (shellfish salt ramen) — extraordinary multi-shellfish broth. Deep, clean umami
Tabelog 3.91 — the highest-rated spot across all neighborhoods. Shellfish broth unlike anything else. Don’t miss this.
Tonkatsu Sugitaとんかつ すぎ田Must · TL 3.76¥1.5–2.5k¥ Cash
TypeTonkatsu — 8 consecutive years Michelin Bib Gourmand, Tonkatsu 百名店
StationKuramae 3 min
Hours11:30–14:00, 17:00–20:30. Closed Thursday. 20 seats with counter. CASH ONLY
Orderロースカツ (rosu katsu). Minimal menu: tonkatsu, sauté, ebi fry, omelette
8yr Michelin Bib Gourmand. White-wood counter to watch the chef. Since 1977.
SERENDIBセレンディッブTL 3.66¥1–1.5k lunch
TypeSri Lankan curry — Curry 百名店
StationKuramae (Oedo A5) 2 min
HoursMon/Wed–Fri lunch+dinner; Sat/Sun lunch only. Closed Tue. Closes when curry runs out
OrderSri Lankan curry plate — chicken/pork/mackerel + rice + papadum + spiced sides. “Afterburn” spice sensation
Authentic Sri Lankan home cooking. Chef’s mother’s recipes. Dancyu top 10 spice curry. Cards/IC/PayPay OK.
Yuwaeru結わえる¥1–1.5k
TypeJapanese set meals (brown rice specialty)
StationKuramae (Oedo) 2 min
HoursLunch 11:30–14:30 (Sat/Sun til 15). Dinner 17:30–22 (Wed dinner closed)
OrderNekase Genmai Teishoku — aged brown rice (3+ days) + choose your main
Uniquely chewy, sweet aged brown rice. Healthy, filling, great value.
KakimoriカキモリMust
TypeCustom stationery — made-to-order notebooks
StationKuramae 3 min
HoursTue–Sun 11:00–18:00. Closed Mon
WhatDesign your notebook (60+ covers, choose paper, binding). Bound in front of you (20–90 min). “Inkstand” next door for custom ink
Price¥3,000–5,000
Stationery lover’s paradise. Watch them bind your custom notebook. Inkstand next door for custom ink colors.
m+エムピウ
TypeLeather goods atelier (architect-designed)
StationKuramae (Asakusa A0) 2 min
HoursWed–Sun 12:00–17:30. Closed Mon/Tue
What“Millefoglie” compact wallet (cult favorite), bags, belts. Atelier = shop. Sometimes B-stock discounts
PriceWallets ¥10–20k
Architect-turned-leather-artisan. Clever, functional forms. See where things are made.
Koncentコンセント
TypeJapanese design products (~500 items, ~25 brands)
Hours11:00–19:00
WhatKitchen, office, home, stationery. H Concept flagship. Most items ¥1–5k
Curated showcase of clever Japanese product design. Perfect for unique, well-designed gifts.
🍻 Asakusa / Kuramae Border
Komagata Dozeu駒形どぜう (1801)Must · TL 3.65¥3.4k
TypeLoach (dojo) hot pot — since 1801
StationKuramae / Asakusa 5 min
Hours11:00–20:30. Phone: 03-3842-4001
OrderDozeu Nabe (loach hot pot, ¥3,380). Yanagawa nabe (loach + egg). Add lots of negi
SoloYes — tatami at communal tables (traditional Edo style)
Founded 1801. One of Tokyo’s most authentic Edo-period dining experiences. Traditional merchant house, tatami. Completely unique — can’t get this elsewhere.
📚 Jimbocho — Curry & Books (神保町)
TakeuchiタケウチMust¥1–2k
TypeCreative Japanese curry
Tabelog3.84 — Curry 百名店 2024. Highest-rated curry in Jimbocho
StationJimbocho A7, 2 min
HoursMon–Thu 11:30–20:00. Often closed weekends, sells out early. Walk-in only
OrderDaily rotating menu (3–4 options). Hambagu curry is the star. Artistic plating
Most creative curry in Jimbocho. Gorgeous plates with real substance.
Bondyボンディ (1973)Must¥1–2k
TypeEuropean-style curry (欧風カレー)
Tabelog3.68 — Curry 百名店, first Kanda Curry Grand Prix winner
StationJimbocho A6, 1 min
Hours11:00–22:00 daily
OrderBeef curry with boiled potato + butter. Rich, sweet European roux
Most iconic Jimbocho curry. Defined the European curry genre. Since 1973.
Kyoeido共栄堂 (1924)Must¥1–2k¥ Cash
TypeSumatran-style curry
Tabelog3.72 — Curry 百名店, 7yr Michelin Bib Gourmand
Hours11:00–19:45. Closed Sunday. CASH ONLY
OrderPork curry. Pitch-black, flour-free, 20+ spices roasted 1hr
Founded 1924 — oldest in Jimbocho. Completely unique Sumatran curry. One-of-a-kind.
Ethiopiaエチオピア (1988)¥1–2k¥ Cash
Tabelog3.77 — Curry 百名店
Hours11:00–22:30 (Sun til 21). Year-round. CASH ONLY
OrderChicken or wild vegetable curry. Spice level 0–70. From-scratch spice blends
Jimbocho’s definitive Indian-style. The 70-level spice system is legendary.
Gavialガヴィアル¥1–2k
Tabelog3.77 — Curry 百名店
HoursFrom 11:00. Closed Tuesday
OrderBeef curry. 28-spice blend, sauce base enriched continuously since 1982
More refined than Bondy. Perpetual sauce base since 1982. Connoisseur’s pick.
Kitchen Nankaiキッチン南海 (1966)~¥1k¥ Cash
Tabelog3.67 — Yoshoku 百名店 2025
Hours11:15–15:00, 17:00–19:30. Closed Sun/holidays. CASH ONLY
OrderKatsu curry — jet-black roux, 10 spices. Since 1966. Go 14:00–15:00 for shortest queue
The quintessential salaryman lunch. Cheap, filling, legit good.
Katsumoto神田勝本Must~¥830
TypeTsukemen (dipping ramen)
Tabelog3.78 — Ramen 百名店 2024
Hours10:00–18:00 (Sun til 17). Cash
OrderSeiyu tsukesoba (¥830) — crystal-clear dashi, dual noodle textures. Same chef as Michelin Ginza Hachigo
Most refined tsukemen in Tokyo. Michelin pedigree. A world apart from typical heavy tsukemen.
Matsuou松翁¥1–2k
TypeHand-cut soba
Tabelog3.68 — Soba 百名店
HoursMon–Fri 11:30–15:30, 17–20; Sat 11:30–16. Closed Sun/holidays
OrderTen-zaru (tempura + cold soba). Tempura fried to order
Best soba in Jimbocho area. Master hand-cuts each batch.
Sabouruさぼうる (1955)Must¥750¥ Cash
TypeLegendary kissaten
Tabelog3.69 — Kissaten 百名店
HoursMon–Sat 9:30–23:00. Closed Sun/holidays. CASH ONLY
OrderCream soda (7 colors, green is classic). Sabouru 2 next door = massive Napolitan
Mountain-lodge exterior covered in ivy. 70+ years. The iconic Jimbocho kissaten.
Ladrioラドリオ (1949)¥600–900
TypeOldest kissaten in Jimbocho
HoursMon–Fri 11:30–22:30; Sat/Sun 12–19. Closed Tue
OrderWiener Coffee — FIRST in Japan to serve it. Napolitan, coffee jelly
Since 1949. Brick-lined basement. Birthplace of Wiener Coffee in Japan. Literary time capsule.
Milonga Nuevaミロンガ ヌオーバ (1953)
TypeTango kissaten
HoursMon–Sat 11:30–22:30; Sun 11:30–19. Closed Wed
OrderHouse-roasted coffee, homemade cake. Argentine tango on vinyl throughout
Subterranean tango bar/kissaten. Vinyl records, dim lighting. Since 1953. Completely unique atmosphere.
Kanda Brazil神田伯剰西爾¥700–1k
Tabelog3.71 — Kissaten 百名店
Hours11:00–21:00 (Sun til 19)
OrderSingle-origin pour-over (choose roast level). Cheesecake
The serious coffee option. Direct-fire on-site roasting, full roast spectrum.
Komiyama Shoten小宮山書店 (1939)Must
TypeArt & photography bookstore
HoursMon, Thu–Sat 12–18:30; Sun 12–17:30. Closed Tue/Wed
WhatArt, photography monographs, vintage prints. 4F gallery with original photographic prints
Single best art bookstore in Tokyo. Original prints by major photographers.
Bohemian’s Guildボヘミアンズギルド
TypeArt/design/rare book gallery (2 floors)
Hours10:30–19:00; Sun 12–17:30
More art gallery than bookshop. Museum-quality rare books alongside affordable design books.
Nanyodo南洋堂書店
TypeArchitecture bookstore specialist
Hours10:30–18:30. Closed Sun/holidays
Japan’s premier architecture bookstore. The building itself was architect-designed.
💰 Cash warnings — bring ¥5,000+
CASH ONLY (9 spots!): Namiki Yabu Soba, Irokawa unagi, Marugo tonkatsu, Aoshima Shokudo, Himitsudo kakigori, Kyoeido curry, Ethiopia curry, Kitchen Nankai, Sabouru kissaten

Cash preferred: Most Asakusa street food, Usagiya dorayaki, Kamejuu dorayaki, Heisei Fukujun

Note: This area is significantly more cash-dependent than Nakameguro or Ginza. Hit a 7-Eleven ATM before exploring.
🌧️ Rainy day picks
All restaurants and kissaten are indoor. Best rainy combo:
Route A (food): Kayaba Coffee → Usagiya dorayaki → Namiki Yabu soba → Umezono zenzai → Kabuki coffee
Route B (shopping): 2k540 Artisan (covered arches) → Kama-Asa knives → Dengama ceramics → Kakimori notebooks → m+ leather
Route C (Jimbocho): All-indoor day — curry → kissaten → bookshops. Everything within 5 min radius
🔀 Key warnings & tips
Jimbocho Sunday closures: Most bookshops and kissaten closed Sunday. Plan for weekday or Saturday.
Curry queues: Worst 11:30–13:00. Arrive 11:00 or go after 14:00.
Sells-out spots: Usagiya (afternoon), Kamejuu (afternoon), Irokawa (by ~13:00), Kagetudo (afternoon). Go early.
Jimbocho ↔ Akihabara: ~15–20 min walk through Ochanomizu. Or 1 Metro stop.

Kawaguchiko

河口湖 Apr 16 – 17
Practical Tips
  • Cash: Carry ¥10,000-15,000. Kawaguchiko is more cash-dependent than Tokyo. 7-Eleven ATMs accept foreign cards.
  • Coin lockers: 100-yen coins ONLY (500-yen not accepted).
  • Weather: Daytime 14-18°C, nights 3-8°C. Bring layers, waterproof jacket, umbrella.
  • Ryokan shuttle: To station 8-11 AM (every 30 min), from station 2-5 PM.
Highway Bus
7:05 AM
Busta Shinjuku
Kawaguchiko
Date
Thu, Apr 16
Arrival
8:40 AM
Cost
¥2,200
Status
Booked
Depart hotel 5:45 AM → Ginza Stn Marunouchi Line → Shinjuku (¥210, ~16 min). Busta Shinjuku is at the south exit of Shinjuku Station (4F).
Thu, Apr 16 Ginza → Kawaguchiko
☀17°/5°10%
Sightseeing 9:30 AM – 2 PM · ryokan check-in 3 PM
💴 Bring ¥10-15k cash · 100-yen coins for lockers
  • 5:45Wake up at Tokyu Stay Ginza
  • 6:15TransitGinza Stn → ShinjukuMarunouchi Line, ~16 min, ¥210
  • 7:05TransitHighway Bus from Busta ShinjukuBusta Shinjuku 4F (south exit)
  • 8:40Arrive Kawaguchiko StationStore luggage in coin lockers at Fujikan Building (¥800, 100-yen coins only)
  • ~10:00Chureito PagodaOutdoorIconic Fuji + pagoda view. ~400 steps up. Cherry blossoms past peak by mid-April. 1-1.5 hrs
  • ~11:30Kachi Kachi RopewayOutdoorPanoramic Fuji views from Mt. Tenjo. ¥900 round trip. 45 min
  • ~12:30LunchHotou FudoIndoorHoto noodles (regional flat miso noodles with pumpkin). 45 min¥ cash only
  • ~13:15TakadayaIndoorSupermarket/greengrocer. Snacks for ryokan. 15 min
  • ~13:30North shore lakeside walkOutdoorCherry trees + Fuji views along the lake
  • 14:00Call ryokan for shuttleFree shuttle runs 2-5 PM, arrives ~10 min after calling. Tel: 0555-72-1371
  • 15:00Check in — Wakakusa-no-yado MarueiOnsen, dinner, relax
Fri, Apr 17 Kawaguchiko → Shibuya
⛅16°/6°20%
  • 6:30Early morning onsenBest Fuji views at sunrise
  • 7:30BreakfastJapanese breakfast at ryokanIndoor60 min
  • 8:30Pack up, last soak or stroll
  • 9:00Morning activitiesOutdoorOptions: Oishi Park (free, Fuji views), bike north shore, or Itchiku Kubota Art Museum (opens 9:30, ~¥1,300)
  • 11:00Check outLunch near station, souvenirs, lakeside stroll
Highway Bus
1:20 PM
Kawaguchiko
Shibuya Mark City
Arrival
~3:05 PM
Drop-off
Shibuya Mark City 5F
Cost
¥2,200
Status
Booked
Earlier departure than originally planned — more time in Shibuya
  • ~15:05Arrive Shibuya Mark City
  • ~15:20Check in — JR-East Hotel Mets Shibuya~5-10 min walk from Shibuya Station. Friday evening in Shibuya

Tokyo — Shibuya

渋谷 Apr 18 – 20
Saturday, April 18
Mostly unplanned
  • 11:45LunchHikiniku To Come ShibuyaIndoorWagyu hambaguBooked — accepted
Sunday, April 19
Mostly unplanned
  • 9:30BreakfastKatsuoshokudoIndoorBonito rice setBooked — accepted
Mon, Apr 20 Departure Day
⛅21°/14°15%
  • AMFull day for sightseeing/shoppingLast-minute Tokyo exploration
  • ~20:00TransitHead to Haneda AirportJR-East Hotel Mets Shibuya → Haneda (train via Shibuya Stn). Arrive ~8:00-8:30 PM for intl departure
Flight
10:45 PM
HND
JFK
Date
Mon, Apr 20
Arrival
10:55 PM (same day)
Airline
ANA NH 160

To-Do Before Trip

Practical Tips — Money, Language, Packing
Seoul Cash
Cards widely accepted. Carry ₩50-100k for markets/street food. ATM at ICN airport (CU, GS25, 7-Eleven). No tipping.

Japan Cash
Carry ¥15-20k at all times. Many small/traditional places cash-only. 7-Eleven ATMs most reliable for foreign cards. Kawaguchiko extra ¥5-10k (more cash-dependent). Coin lockers need 100-yen coins only (500-yen NOT accepted). No tipping.

Korean Phrases
감사합니다 (gamsahamnida) = thank you · 주세요 (juseyo) = please give me · 얼마예요 (eolmayeyo) = how much?

Japanese Phrases
ありがとうございます (arigatou gozaimasu) = thank you · すみません (sumimasen) = excuse me · お会計 (okaikei) = check please

Packing Strategy
Check 1 bag half-empty (room for shopping). Buy 2nd check-in bag in Tokyo (Don Quijote, Loft, Tokyu Hands ¥3-8k). ANA allows 2 checked bags 23kg each. In-room washer at Tokyu Stay = pack for 4 days, wash every 2-3 days. No adapter needed (same plug as US).

Shopping Spots (Tokyo)
Don Quijote · Loft · Tokyu Hands · Uniqlo · MUJI · Matsumoto Kiyoshi (drugstore). Japan Post international shipping ~¥2-5k per box if overflow.
Wishlist — Not Scheduled

Seoul Coffee

Identity Coffeelab
Deep Blue Lake — "highly variable roast level"

Seoul Food

Hyodo Chicken Gwanghwamun — opens 2 PM, near Gyeongbokgung
Keunkiwajip — Michelin gejang, Bukchon. Walk-in only, 1+ hr waits
Gyeyeolsa — legendary fried chicken, Buam-dong. Closed Mon
Obang Tongdak — retro rotisserie, Sindang. Sells out early
Artist Bakery — salt bread, Anguk. CatchTable to skip queue
Bubing — bingsu, Bukchon. Opens 1 PM Wed-Sun
서촌가락 — makgeolli pub, Seochon. Better with 2+ people

Seoul Neighborhoods

Buam-dong — quiet arts neighborhood. Many shops closed Mon
Haebangchon — hillside multicultural neighborhood. Steep walk up

Tokyo

Genkai Shokudo — oyakodon, tatami rooms, Shinjuku. Phone: 03-3356-0036 or Toreta online
Rosokuya Ginza — ramen, closed Sat. Cashless only
Mouko Tanmen Nakamoto — ramen, Shinjuku
Kitchen Nankai Jinbocho — yoshoku, cheap. Cash only
EDW Yellow Shibuya — cafe. Cashless only, 1-2 hr weekend waits
Walnuts Coffee — roastery/wine bar, Koenji