Author Archives: planmyjapan

13 Best Japanese Ramen Restaurants in London

Looking for the best Japanese ramen restaurants in London? From London ramen chains like Shoryu Ramen and Bone Daddies, to independent Japanese restaurants like Monohon and Ramo, these are the best ramen restaurants in London. You might like – Best Japan things to do in London, activities to plan the perfect Japan themed day in […]

Matsumoto Castle Guide + Photos (& Matsumoto Castle at Night)

Matsumoto is a magnificent mountainous city, most famous for the Matsumoto Castle. There are so many cool things to do in Matsumoto like the Nawate-dori frog street or City Museum of Art – but if you only do one thing, make it Matsumoto Castle (so famous, it features on practically ever Matsumoto souvenir, gift and […]

Nishiki Market, ‘Kyoto’s Kitchen’ in Japan

Kyoto’s most famous food and drink destination, Nishiki Market, is over 400 years old and  located in the heart of Kyoto. With so many tasty tidbits and traditional Japanese dishes available, it is one of the best places to shop and eat in Kyoto. A bustling street of savory, sweet and umami treats, Nishiki Market […]

Matsumoto, Japan – 14 Things To Do Guide + Photos

Most famous for its magnificent Matsumoto Castle and City Museum of Art, Matsumoto is an easy day trip from Nagano but very much a destination in its own right. Set against a stunning mountain backdrop with lush landscapes, Matsumoto is a marvellous mix of old and new Japan, from the traditional Nakamachi Street and Nawate […]

Kuromon Market in Osaka Guide + Photos

Osaka’s best known food and fish market, Kuromon is located in the heart of Osaka in the Minami District. With so many delicious snacks available, it is best to arrive hungry, and visit here for breakfast or lunch (most stalls close around 5pm or earlier if they sell out). A bustling street of savory, sweet […]

Japanese Chain Stores – 22 Best Chain Shops In Japan

Shopping in Japan is a joyous experience and there are so many Japanese chain stores to choose from. From cool and Kawaii gifts at Donguri Republic to marvellous manga merchandise in Mandarake, Japanese chain shops are retail heaven – sugoi! Everywhere in Japan, from the shopping streets of Ginza to the bright night lights of […]

Canal City Hakata – Fukuoka Shopping Mall Guide + Photos

The largest downtown shopping mall in Fukuoka, Canal City Hakata is a fun place to shop, eat or watch the famous fountain and light show. Canal City Hakata boasts over 200 shops, restaurants and cafes featuring Japanese and international brands, from a super cute Studio Ghibli Donguri Republic store to a Namco Bandai Cross gachapon […]

Fukuoka, Japan – 25 Things To Do Guide + Photos

One of Japan’s largest cities and Kyūshū’s cultural hub, Fukuoka is a fine foodie place, with a rich mix of historic temples, gorgeous green parks and shopping malls galore. From Fukuoka’s famous ‘yatai’ food stalls (open outside no matter what the weather) to historic castle ruins, there are plenty of things to do in Fukuoka, […]

Nanzoin Temple Reclining Buddha in Fukuoka, Guide + Photos

A beautiful Buddhist temple in Fukuoka, Nanzoin Temple is best known for its big reclining Buddha, which is possibly the largest bronze statue in the world. Founded in 1889 and located in lush woodland and a short train ride away from Fukuoka, Nanzoin Temple (南蔵院) is a peaceful place (less so at the weekends) with […]