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80-year-old Shizuo Mori has gone viral for his passionate pudding-making skills! His wrist flicking technique has been unique to him and his homemade pudding for nearly 60 years and Mori-san has no plans on stopping. While most people would retire well before reaching 80, Mori-san has dedicated much of his life to this cafe following his mantra of "work is what gives us energy." His charismatic charm is infectious to anyone who visits. This is one of those experiences where you immediately feel right at home. Location: 105-0003 Tokyo, Minato City, Nishishinbashi, 1 Chome−20−11 安藤ビル 1F

Every country has amazing desserts unique to them and their culture, and Japan is certainly no exception. That being said, sometimes a simple piece of matcha chocolate or a soft serve ice cream cone doesn’t cut it. Sometimes you need something extreme… From towering parfaits, to all you can eat buffets these are our recommendations for the top 5 craziest dessert spots in Japan! All You Can Eat Dessert Buffet (Sweets Paradise) Buffets are a foodie’s paradise, but I don’t know if we’ve ever come across a buffet with an unlimited selection of desserts THIS big. At Sweets Paradise for just 20 USD you can get unlimited premium fruits, desserts and savory meals for 100 minutes. If you want to skip out on the fruits (thought we highly suggest that you don’t) the price drops to only 10 USD. At this price point you might be skeptical about the selection they have available but rest assured they serve unique fruits like Okinawan peach and desserts ranging from cakes, macarons and even mousse. This is one those places that sound too good to be true but I guess that’s why they call it “Sweets Paradise.” Location: Sweets Paradise, 新宿F・Fビル Ｂ１Ｆ 3 Chome-26-6 Shinjuku, Shinjuku City, Tokyo 160-0022 The Biggest Pudding in Japan (Nihonbashi Brewery.T.S) If size matters to you then you have to stop by Nihonbashi Brewery.T.S. in Tokyo! Their giant pudding comes in at 4.5 lbs (2 kg) and is four times the size of normal pudding. It’s topped with a caramel glaze and simply too much ice cream. It tastes amazing but the sugar crash is something you’ll have to brace for. Location: 1 Chome-11-1 Marunouchi, Chiyoda City, Tokyo 100-0005 The Sweetest Shop Owner (Inu no Yaki Imo ya San) This small shop in Osaka serves the classic Japanese treat, “Yaki-imo” otherwise known as sweet potato. While, the sweet potato is great, you may be asking how this shop ended up on the “craziest desserts” list? It’s the fact that this shop is run by “Shu-chan” the Shiba Inu! Shu-chan is super friendly and loves to greet everyone that comes to his stand, but it’s important to remember the fact that he doesn’t have thumbs so you’ll have to pay in exact change! Shu-chan only opens up shop from 1:30 to 2:30 PM so be ready to get there fast to grab Yaki-imo, treats for Shu-chan and his personalized T-Shirts! Location: Inu no yaki imo ya san (いぬのヤキイモやさん) Sapporo, Japan Time: 1:30-2:30 PM Eating Dog for Dessert? (PEARLS) Don’t tell Shu-chan about this place… At PEARLS you can order a dog shaped dessert that is creepily realistic, down to the texture of the dog’s fur. For only 600 yen you can order a delicious “wanna cotta,” a dog shaped panna cotta that, rest assured, tastes like panna cotta and not dog. Though, it did feel a little wrong to eat, I guess you can now tell your friends that you’ve tried “dog” now. Location: 1-3-21 Abenobashisuji, Abeno-ku, Osaka-shi, Osaka Does Height Matter? (All Day Dining Hikari) If height matters to you then you have to stop by All Day Dining Hikari in Osaka. This behemoth of a parfait is built with a whopping 50 strawberries and lots of cream. Standing at 5 cups tall, we were honestly shocked that the cup of cornflakes and cookies at the bottom were able to hold everything steady. The owner told us that the small cookies on the side of the parfait represent Mt. Everest climbers and with the size of the parfait we understand why. With the amount of cream and sheer number of strawberries this is a phallic treat that you’ll defintiely have to tag team with your friends. Location: 592-0014 Osaka, Takaishi, Ayazono, 1 Chome−9−1 1階 Appla Takaishi

Despite sitting right next to Shibuya, Shimokitazawa is a laid back neighborhood known for its rich music culture and vintage thrift shops. You can also find a variety of unique cafes and small bars, each with their own "personality" and more often than not, a passionate employee eager to start a conversation. With so many shops to stop by, it can be a bit overwhelming for someone trying to first navigate the narrow streets... That being said, here are our top 5 vintage shops and thrift shops to help you begin cracking open the unique shops of Shimokita! New York Joe Exchange New York Joe's is a curated thrift shop that exists in what used to be a public bathhouse. It's a must visit place for first-timers with its unique decor and wide variety of both branded and non-branded clothing. From 2002 World Cup gear to old wedding t-shirts, you'll never know what you'll find here! If you can, try and swing by on the first Sunday of every month, when everything is half-price! (Just be sure to watch your step, the floor of the spacious building is still very much a bathhouse) Address: 3 Chome-26-4 Kitazawa, Setagaya City, Tokyo 155-0031 Focus (フォーカス) Located right across from New York Joe's, the next place you should stop by is Focus. This shop definitely has a more eclectic selection ranging from simple Carhartt shirts to bedazzled crop tops that otherwise might only exist in early 2000's music videos. This variety means that there's an item of clothing for every personality in this shop. Before you step in the store, keep an eye out for their discount board! Every tag is color coded, and everyday you can find clothes marked down at 30 percent and 50 percent! Address: 小清水ビル 1階, 2 Chome-35-9 Kitazawa, Setagaya City, Tokyo 155-0031 Sonora At first glance it might look like a crudely assembled hut, but if you're looking for unique jewelry for Goodwill prices, or a film camera to document your travels, you need to stop by Sonora. Here you can find just about anything from vinyls, rings to interesting lighters. The shop has a cozy atmosphere and a friendly employee to help answer any questions you might have. This place is the definition of a hidden gem. Address: 2 Chome-25 Kitazawa, Setagaya City, Tokyo 155-0031 Antique Life Jin This small antique store is for those who love to take their time to appreciate small trinkets and vintage items. From simple things like bottle openers from the 90's, jewelry, and even artwork, this shop is like a 'Where's Waldo' book for indie kids (except every item is Waldo). Despite it's small size it would take hours before you were able to go through everything here. For those looking for one of a kind items, definitely visit Antique Life Jin. Address: 2 Chome-30-8 Kitazawa, Setagaya City, Tokyo 155-0031 Micmo and Desert Snow These chain stores have multiple shops located throughout the streets of Shimokitazawa, each one selling a different set of curated items. While they might lack the personality of other shops in the area, if you want variety, these places are always reliable. Though Desert Snow tends to have an odd number of Hard Rock Cafe t-shirts from all across the globe? Address: Quite literally everywhere in Shimokitazawa

Source: Reuters Mount Fuji has closed all trails until the end of the year 2023, due to environmental damage caused by over-tourism. Fuji is typically a two-day climb for those that want to take in all that the mountain has to offer. However, many tourists are attempting to scale the mountain in a day. This has caused a high influx of rescue requests. The total number has risen to 60 this year, with a quarter of those coming from non-Japanese tourists. The increased number of tourists has also caused an excess amount of litter and dirtied bathrooms at a rate that maintenance and officials cannot keep up with. The reason for this closure is due to the fact that the litter and damages have threatened Mount Fuji's UNESCO World Heritage Site status. Additionally, if the mountain continues to face these damages, there are concerns that Mount Fuji's sacredness would be tarnished. As for solutions for this issue of over-tourism and environmental pollution, there are talks in place to remove the Fuji-Subaru access road and replace it with a train service. This new train would come with a high fare of 10,000 yen ($67.85 USD). The high price tag has been proposed in the hopes that those who are willing to pay the fare are more committed and respectful to the UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Autumn is the season for eating! Well, that is, according to a Japanese adage. This adage stems from the old belief that one’s appetite increases in autumn because of the abundance of harvest after the summer and the body needing to prepare for winter. The arrival of autumn brings a season of vibrant colors and an insatiable autumn appetite. Kaki (Persimmons) Photo from istockphoto.com (kuppa_rock) The arrival of autumn in Japan coincides with the peak season for persimmons, locally known as "kaki." These radiant, orange fruits not only add a pop of color to the landscape but also bring a burst of sweet, succulent flavor to the palate. Persimmons are enjoyed fresh, dried to create hoshigaki, or incorporated into traditional Japanese sweets like kaki manju. They are a symbol of the season's vibrant harvest. Hojicha Photo by @chopstickchronicles While Japan is renowned for its green tea, it's hojicha that takes center stage during the fall. Hojicha is created by roasting green tea leaves, imparting a warm, toasty aroma and a nutty, soothing flavor. It's the ideal beverage to sip while wrapped in a cozy blanket, providing a comforting respite from the autumn chill. Oden Oden, a beloved Japanese comfort food, comes into its own during the brisk autumn evenings. This hearty one-pot dish features various ingredients like daikon radish, boiled eggs, konjac noodles, and fish cakes simmered in a savory soy-based broth. The wafting aroma of oden invites people to gather at street stalls, savoring a bowl of warmth and nostalgia. Kabocha (Japanese Pumpkin) Photo from Just One Cookbook Kabocha, the Japanese pumpkin, stands as a pillar of autumn cuisine. Its sweet, nutty flesh and vivid orange hue make it a versatile ingredient in both savory and sweet dishes. Kabocha often stars in tempura, stews, or the comforting kabocha nimono—a simmered dish. It also finds a place in delightful desserts such as kabocha pie and kabocha mochi, showcasing its adaptability in Japanese kitchens. Ginkgo Nuts Ginkgo nuts, known as ginnan, are a unique and slightly bitter delicacy synonymous with autumn in Japan. These small, green nuts are gathered from the ginkgo tree and are frequently enjoyed after a gentle simmer in a soy-based sauce. Their distinct flavor and texture make them a sought-after ingredient in various dishes and snacks, adding a touch of autumn's charm to every bite. Yaki Imo (Roasted Sweet Potatoes) Photo from Just One Cookbook Yaki imo, or roasted sweet potatoes, are a quintessential autumn snack in Japan. Vendors can be found on street corners roasting sweet potatoes in wood-fired ovens. The sweet, caramelized aroma wafting through the air is irresistible. These warm, soft sweet potatoes are often enjoyed straight from the oven, providing a comforting and nostalgic taste of fall. Kuri Gohan (Chestnut Rice) Photo from Just One Cookbook Chestnuts, or kuri in Japanese, are another hallmark of autumn cuisine. Kuri gohan is a traditional Japanese rice dish where chestnuts are added to rice during the cooking process. The natural sweetness of chestnuts infuses the rice, creating a harmonious balance of flavors. It's a comforting dish that perfectly complements the cool weather of fall. Sanma (Pacific Saury) Sanma, or Pacific saury, is a popular fish in Japan during the fall season. This fish is known for its oily and flavorful flesh, making it a favorite choice for grilling. The crispy skin and tender meat of sanma are often seasoned with a touch of salt and served with grated daikon radish and soy sauce. It's a simple yet incredibly delicious dish that's best enjoyed when the air begins to turn crisp. Matsutake Mushrooms Photo from The Japanese Food Lab Autumn is mushroom season in Japan, and the highly-prized matsutake mushrooms take center stage during this time. Known for their rich, earthy aroma and unique texture, matsutake mushrooms are used in a variety of dishes, including sukiyaki, grilled over an open flame, or added to flavorful rice dishes like matsutake gohan. These mushrooms are a true delicacy and are often associated with the changing leaves of autumn. Momiji Tempura One of the most iconic fall foods in Japan is momiji tempura. Momiji are maple leaves that turn vibrant shades of red and orange during the autumn season. In many regions, these leaves are harvested and dipped in a light tempura batter, then deep-fried until crispy. The result is a delightful combination of crispy, slightly sweet, and earthy flavors that perfectly encapsulate the spirit of autumn. When you find yourself in Japan during this time, seize the opportunity to partake in these culinary treasures and experience the magic of the season's "shokuyoku no aki"—the autumn of the hearty appetite.

Dramatic serves Japan's most popular comfort food, Curry! This shop is one of our favorite local spots in Osaka! It’s an intimate restaurant located in a Shotengai with just a few tables and counter seats. The staff is very friendly and helpful if guests can’t read Japanese. The food itself is great, we recommend the curry served with fish broth because it's unique to their store, but the Katsu Curry is a close second! The portion sizes were big and the curry was just perfectly spicy! Name: ドラマチック(Dramatic) Address: 1 Chome-6-18 Nakazaki, Kita Ward, Osaka, 530-0016

Japanese Convenience stores are second to none. From their delicious sweets, bentos and snacks, you could fill a banquet hall with all that they have to offer. But, with the large variety of foods comes the opportunity to experiment... Through trial and error people have mixed and matched different products to create the ultimate convenience store hacks. While there is an endless list of these inventions we went through the trouble of narrowing them down to our top 3! Curry Cup Ramen and Mochi Ice Cream Simple yet amazing. Adding mochi ice-cream to the Cup Noodle Curry Ramen creates an amazing blend of creamy, sweet and spicy flavors. This ranks so highly because of the low amount of effort that it takes to prepare and of course the amazing taste! How To: Step 1: Pour boiling water into the Cup Ramen and let it sit for 3 minutes. Be sure to close the lid to keep the moisture inside! You can be innovative, in our case we used a stapler! Step 2: Prep the Mochi! Open the Mochi and place one of the balls of ice cream into the cup ramen. Stir until you get a creamy consistency and enjoy! (Be sure to eat the leftover ice cream too) Fami Chiki Pancake Sandwich This is perhaps the most popular convenience store hack to date, and rightfully so. This hack tastes pretty similar to chicken and waffles but in sandwich form. Its the perfect go-to combination if you're craving something sweet and savory (or trying to cure the Chu-Hi hangover). How To: Step 1: Pick up a bag of pancakes in the pastry section of the convenience store. They'll typically come in packs of two, so you can share with your friends! To pick up the chicken, you'll have to go to the register and order for a "Fami-chiki" if you're in a FamilyMart, "Nana-chiki" if you're in a 7-11 and "Pari-chiki" if you're in a Lawson. If you dont know how to order the chicken, simply say: *Insert chicken name here* hi-to-tsu one-gai-shi-masu! (May I please have one piece of fried chicken!) Step 2: Open one of the Maple and Margerine Pancakes, put the fried chicken inside, and enjoy your sandwich! If you're on the go, the top of the fried chicken packets can tear off to keep your hands clean! Onigiri, Kimchi and Egg This hack might be for the more experienced palette and for those that have an extra plate on deck. That being said, it's probably the most flavorful hack for someone trying to eat a quick bite while hitting most of the food groups! How To: Step 1: Pick up a poached egg, onigiri of your choice and a container of Kimchi. The wider the container the better! Step 2: Open the container and place the onigiri inside. Then, proceed to crack open the egg and pour it over the onigiri. Step 3: Enjoy the mess! While putting it in the Kimchi container can be practical when it's big enough our personal recommendation is to put these three in a bowl. The spice of the Kimchi, sweetness of the egg and the flavors from the onigiri make this such a satisfying hack! Have you tried any of these hacks before? Which one was your favorite? Did we miss any? Let us know on our Instagram and be sure to follow us to keep up with everything Japan!

Japan might be known for its small portion sizes, but that stereotype is far from true at Juicy Meat. If you're a meat lover then you have to add this restaurant to your Kyoto itinerary! For under 10 dollars you can get their meat omelet sando that features beef wrapped in a warm omelet, their roast beef sando that has Japanese Shiso, wasabi and soy sauce and last but not least their Wagyu filet sandwiches. If you're feeling really bold you can try their loaded premium filet sandwich that comes in at just under 20 dollars and has an insane amount of meat and fillings. Just check out the Reel below to see how big these sandwiches can get! Instagram: @juicymeat_10c Location: Japan, 〒604-8152 Kyoto, Nakagyo Ward, Tearaimizucho, 671 損保ジャパン ユニバース京都ビル B1F

Tsukimi, a term that translates to "looking at the moon," is a cherished Japanese festival that celebrates the Harvest Moon. This ancient tradition has its roots in the admiration of the bright September moon, symbolizing gratitude for the year's harvest and hope for a prosperous year ahead. History Historically, Tsukimi followed the Japanese lunisolar calendar, with celebrations occurring on three specific nights: the 15th day of the eighth month (Jugoya), the 13th day of the ninth month (Jusan'ya), and the 10th day of the tenth month (Tokan'ya). According to tradition, if all three nights are clear and the moon is visible, it is believed that good luck and fortune will follow. In terms of the Gregorian calendar, the dates for these celebrations are as follows: Jugoya: September 29, 2023; September 17, 2024; October 6, 2025; September 25, 2026; September 15, 2027. Jusan'ya: October 27, 2023; October 15, 2024; November 2, 2025; October 22, 2026; October 12, 2027. Tokan'ya: November 22, 2023; November 10, 2024; November 29, 2025; November 18, 2026; November 7, 2027. Customs and Traditions 1. Tsukimi Dango One of the most delightful customs associated with Tsukimi is the preparation and consumption of Tsukimi dango. These rice dumplings, made from glutinous rice flour, are shaped into small, round balls. They are thoughtfully arranged on a special Tsukimi-dai, a tray or table adorned with seasonal decorations, including pampas grass, Japanese susuki grass, and various fruits and vegetables. Traditionally, these dumplings are placed in groups of 15, representing the fifteenth day, or groups of 12, representing the months of the year. Sharing Tsukimi dango is not just a culinary pleasure but also a heartfelt expression of gratitude for the bountiful autumn harvest. 2. Seasonal Fruit and Vegetable Offerings Photo from The Chunichi Shimbun Beyond Tsukimi dango, seasonal fruits and vegetables play a central role in the festival. Persimmons, pears, chestnuts, and taro are commonly showcased as offerings to the moon. These choices reflect the abundance of the harvest season and serve as tokens of appreciation for the gifts of nature. The presentation of these offerings is carefully arranged, often with meticulous attention to aesthetics, adding an artistic dimension to the celebration. 3. Susuki (Pampas Grass) Susuki, known as pampas grass in Japanese, holds a special place in Tsukimi traditions. It is believed to possess protective qualities, capable of warding off evil spirits and diseases. Hence, it is customary to decorate both indoor and outdoor spaces with susuki during the festival. The tall, elegant grass adds a touch of rustic beauty to the environment, enhancing the overall atmosphere of the celebration. Tsukimi, the Japanese Harvest Moon Festival, offers a beautiful glimpse into Japan's cultural heritage and its deep connection to nature. As this age-old tradition continues to be celebrated throughout Japan, it serves as a poignant reminder of the enduring beauty and cultural significance of the full moon.

BYRE(バイアー) isn't your average Tokyo thrift shop! Located in Chofu, Tokyo this vintage thrift shop is run by a couple that turned a cow farm into a thrift store. The remnants of the farm complement the pieces inside the shop, creating one of the most aesthetic shopping experiences we've ever had in Japan. The unique decor itself made the visit one of a kind. When it comes to the vintage items, this shop features curated pieces handpicked by the store owners themselves. On top of that they even have a flower shop as well! Location: 3 Chome-53-3 Fuda, Chofu, Tokyo 182-0024, Japan Byre Clothing Store Instagram: @byre_clothingstore Byre Flower Shop Instagram: @byre_flowershop

Japan's ramen scene is nothing short of legendary, but with how many ramen restaurants there are and the variety that they offer, it can be a bit overwhelming. What kind of broth is the best, whats the best noodle firmness, how many toppings should I order? Well, look no further, because here at Ohako we've picked out a bowl of ramen for every personality. Whether you're a health-conscious foodie, a customization connoisseur, or seeking an award-winning bowl we've got you covered! For the Customizing Connoisseur (Tonkotsu Ramen Zururu, Kyoto) If you like to get creative with your food then you need to head to Tonkotsu Ramen Zururu. You can skip the touristy ramen spots because with it's retro decor, this place has years of craftsmanship behind each bowl. You can customize everything from your noodle firmness and toppings as well as order a refill of noodles for only 150 yen. The ramen itself is rich and creamy without being too heavy! Location: 600-8001 Kyoto, Shimogyo Ward, Shincho, 95−1 トップハットビル 1F For the Sweet tooth (Franken, Osaka) If you've got a sweet tooth and don't care too much for getting a 'traditional' bowl of ramen then look no further than Franken! Here, for ten dollars you can get a literal soft serve inside your miso ramen. This isn't just a gimmick, the ice cream genuinely added a creaminess and a sweetness that balanced the spice really well. This is one of those food combos that you should genuinely try for yourself. Location: Osaka, Japan For The Health Nut (Noodle Shop Rennosuke, Kyoto) If you love ramen but don't want to commit to the calories or the heaviness that a bowl brings, then you need to check out Noodle Shop Rennosuke. The owner traveled across Japan learning the best techniques to make his noodles from scratch. It’s rare to find a shop like this that makes the noodles by hand every morning, especially ones that don't use preservatives and are served in a 100 percent seafood broth. But, if you want to cheat that diet a little bit, then we also recommend trying their homemade pudding for dessert! Location: 56-32 Murasakino Shimokashiwanocho, Kita Ward, Kyoto, 603-8313 Contact: 090-5789-9499 For the Efficient Eater (Sagamihara Vending Machine Park, Kanagawa) If you have an obsession with Japan's unique vending machines or simply want to grab a quick bite on the go, then you need to stop by the Sagamihara Vending Machine Park! Located right next to a used tire shop you can find some crazy vintage vending machines that serve everything from curry, hot sandwiches and of course ramen. For just a few coins you can instantly get a steaming hot bowl of ramen that's honestly not too shabby. While, the quality of this bowl isn't up to par with the rest of the items on this list, the experience and location itself is worth the few coins! Location: Used Tire Mart Sagamihara Store - Vending Machine Corner, 2661-1 Shimomizo, Minami Ward, Sagamihara, Kanagawa 252-0335 The Best Ramen in Japan? (Kozou+, Osaka): If you simply want the best ramen in Japan, then you need to check out Kozou+. While everyone has a different opinion on where to get the best ramen in Japan, this ramen shop has literally won the nationwide "Best Ramen Award." Kozou+ serves a specific type of ramen called "Mazesoba" a broth-less ramen for just under 8 US dollars. To add on to their unique menu, if you come on the 29th of every month, you can also get the biggest meat on ramen that we've ever seen! Location: Kozou+, 〒553-0003 Osaka, Fukushima Ward, Fukushima, 1 Chome−2−35 パインブルックリン１F

Japan is known for its efficient train system and speedy bullet trains. But not too many people are familiar with how people got around before all of these technological advancements. Rickshaw's are two-wheeled, man-powered carts used to transport people. They originated in Japan around 1870 and became extremely popular since man-powered labor was cheaper than horses at the time. Believe it or not, these still exist today! So, we to Asakusa and got pulled around through Tokyo by one of these Rickshaw drivers! It was awesome experiencing a “man” powered rickshaw for the first time. We toured all around the Asakusa area with TokyoRickshaw and got to see all of the landmarks such as Skytree and Sensoji Temple! If you want to see all the sights, experience the culture and get a personal tour... You have to add this to your Tokyo bucket list! Name: Tokyo Rickshaw Location: Asakusa, Tokyo Instagram: @tokyorickshaw