Online travel booking website Rakuten Travel has released this year’s list for the most popular hotels and accommodations you can stay at with pets in Japan. The list is based off travellers’ reviews taken from the website. This list has been updated and published every year since 2014, making this its 6th run.

Placing number one on the list for the first time is Yutsura, a ryokan Japanese-style inn which opened in Shizuoka in April 2018 and can be rented by one person or group for one night. Up to six people in a single group can stay there along with up to 5 small dogs weighing 5kg or less. It’s highly favoured amongst travellers who want to take their dogs on the road due to the extent the inn caters for pets. Guests can enjoy having the dogs in their rooms as well as feed their pets there, all without being a bother to other guests.

Nipponia Sawara Merchant Town Hotel in Chiba Prefecture came in second place. You can feel the history of this hotel accommodation which is renovated from a traditional storehouse and townhouse. It allows up to three pets in a room which collectively weigh 25kg. There are three types of rooms to choose from, including one with a dog park. It also offers various services, including a free night for one dog, snacks and amenities for dogs, and more.

In third place is Dog Pension R65 in Shizuoka Prefecture which allows not only big and small dogs, but cats and other pets too. It offers large footbaths for dogs to use, dog parks, and many other services that cater to pets. The hotel also offers cottage-type accommodation rooms separate from the main building too if you’re looking to spend some peaceful time away with your beloved companion.

 

If you’re looking to travel around Japan with your pet, be sure to check if a hotel allows animals. Check the link below for the full Top 10 list.

Have you ever wondered what the thrill of bungee jumping would be like, but are too afraid of heights to even consider putting it on your bucket list? Have no fear, because Kyoto Tower is bringing a new VR bungee jumping experience to the top of the building which will be available to experience from February 1 for a limited time.

This VR experience was first brought to the tower in the fall of 2018, and this year it is making its grand return. After the event originally ended, there was huge demand for it to be held again.

Those brave enough to have a go at this VR bungee jump (or bungy, depending where you are from), will go above and beyond the 100 meter observation deck to the highest accessible point of Kyoto Towerーup 120.9 metersーwhich is normally closed off to the public, to the special VR deck which has been prepared.

The experience will offer you not only the thrill of jumping from Kyoto’s tallest structure, but the chance to gaze upon a panoramic view of the beautiful city too.

You’ve studied as much as you can for your exams and prepared as much as you can for that mid-term presentation but the nerves are still getting to you. How about some lucky items to help you succeed? As the exam season is approaching, Tokyo Station’s shopping centre GRANSTA is holding a fair from January 13 to February 14, selling a variety of lucky items and foods to fill you with the courage and strength you need to calm your nerves and boost your confidence.

 

 Katsu Sandwiches

As “katsu” also means “win”, a crunchy and juicy “winning” sandwich is the perfect way to boost your confidence and energy levels.

Kinokuniya Katsu Sandwiches (3 Sandwiches): ¥430 (After Tax)/KINOKUNIYA Entrée GRANSTA Marunouchi Floor B1 (Outside ticket barriers)

A crunchy katsu sandwich with a thick slice of juicy Japanese pork – This popular katsu sandwich will provide you with the stamina you need to do that presentation.

Katsu Fillet Sandwich (4 Sandwiches): ¥880 (After Tax) / Nagoya Meibutsu Misokatsu Yabaton: GRANSTA Floor B1 (Inside ticket barriers)

A soft southern Kyushu katsu meat fillet drizzled with Yabaton’s special sauce. Enjoy the juicy flavour with every bite. 

Egg and Shrimp Katsu Sandwich (1 Full Sandwich): ¥388 (After Tax) /Kyo no Gohan Wasai no Kuni: GRANSTA Marunouchi Floor B1 (Outside ticket barriers)

This pack includes a tender shrimp sandwich and a rich-flavoured egg sandwich. (Limited number sold per day)

Sangenton Katsu Sandwich Eat-In: ¥396, Take Away: ¥388 (After Tax)/ BOULANGERIE ASANOYA, GRANSTA Floor 1 (Inside Ticket Barriers)

The Sangenton Katsu Sandwich is a hearty meal that consists of pork of three origins. This is perfect to fuel up on energy before your big moment. (Limit of 40 sold per day)

 

Chestnut-Flavoured Talisman of Victory

Silver Bell Pancake Sandwich: ¥378 Each (After Tax)/ Colombin GRANSTA Floor B1 (Inside ticket barriers)

Chestnut-based foods as a victory treat date back to the end of the 15th century during the Warring States period of Japanese history. In this pancake sandwich, two fluffy pancakes hug a filling of delicious cream and chestnuts, creating the perfect victory snack. *Sold from January 13 – February 14, 2020

 

Lucky Iyokan Mikan Vinegar

Lucky Iyokan Mikan Vinegar (1:5 Dilution, 150ml): ¥1,296/ Drinking Vinegar expre・su Tokyo GRANSTA Floor B1 (Inside ticket barriers)

This mikan orange-flavored drinking vinegar is made from Iyokan mikan oranges, which is said to bring luck. “Iyokan” also means “good premonition”, which is sure to provide both an energy and confidence boost. *Limited sales: From January 13, 2020 while stocks last.

 

Lucky Pentagonal Chopsticks Set

Lucky Pentagonal Chopsticks Set: ¥3,300/ Nihonbo GRANSTA Floor B1 (Inside Ticket Barriers)

These lucky pentagonal (gokaku) chopsticks are a play on words with the word “gokaku”, which also means success. They are pentagonal right to the tip, making it easy to grip your food. This is the perfect present for your friend who is going to take an exam. Limited Selling Period: Until the beginning of March.

 

Tokyo Station GRANSTA is full of lucky items and foods to help you and your friends prepare for success.

We’ve previously covered the best spots to try delicious matcha desserts in Kyoto. Now, with the help of expert dessert Instagrammer Kei, we are going to introduce you to some of the most delicious spots to try matcha desserts in Sapporo, Hokkaido.

 

If you want to discover more delicious cafés, desserts and drinks in Hokkaido, make sure to check out Kei’s Instagram (@607keih).

 

KotoniSand, Nishi Ward

Macchan French Toast: ¥1200

 From dinners to desserts, this café serves up lots of meals based on their delicious thick-sliced bread. Bread flavours include plain, matcha and even coffee. You can order to go or enjoy the eat-in-limited menu. This fluffy french toast is soaked in matcha liqueur and is full of flavour even before trying it with the toppings. Take a bite of it with the red bean paste for a flavour adventure. A limited number of these are sold per day so if you want to try it, make sure to get there early. 

 

▼KotoniSand

Address: 1-1-1 Yamanote 5 Jō, Nishi-ku, Sapporo, Hokkaido

Opening Hours: 11:00-18:00
Closed: Tuesdays
Official Website: https://kotonisand.business.site

 

Ame no hi to yuki no hi, Minami Ward

Gelato Futatsu: ¥450

Located before Jozankei’s onsen hotspot is a café called Ame no hi yuki no hi. It serves delicious pizzas and a variety of gelato flavours depending on the season. Their matcha ice cream is delicious. They even allow you to order two or three flavours at once so you can enjoy a mix and match of combinations. 

▼Ame no hi to yuki no hi

Address: 2-4-1, Jozankeionsennishi, Minami Ward, Sapporo, Hokkaido 

Opening Hours: 10:00-17:30
Closed: Thursdays
Official Website: https://www.amenohitoyukinohi.com

 

KANON pancakes, Shiroishi Ward

Matcha Tiramisu Pancake: ¥1500

This is a famous pancake shop in Kikusui. Tuck into a stack of fluffy pancakes inside the relaxing and soothing restaurant. The Matcha Tiramisu Pancakes are soaked with liqueur, creating a texture that is softer and moister than their standard pancakes. In addition to the matcha liqueur, the pancake is also dusted with matcha powder for a richer matcha flavour. Finally, they are drizzled with delicious brown sugar syrup and topped with walnuts.

 

▼KANON pancakes

Address: 5-5-18 Kikusui 3 Jo, Shiroishi Ward, Sapporo,

Opening Hours: 10:00-17:00 (Last Orders: 16:00)
No Regular Holidays
Official Website: https://kanon-pancakes.com

 

Any cafe, Kita Ward

Matcha Kintoki: ¥1350

This shop uses gluten-free ingredients in their food. This pancake dish is made using unpolished rice powder, three pieces of Turkish delight, red bean paste, rice flour dumplings, and cream made from Hokkaido-produced mascarpone and fresh cream. The cream is full of the bitter and delicious flavour of matcha, making the pancake sweet and very delicious. 

 

▼Any cafe

Address: 3-2-24 Kita 18 Jonishi, Kita Ward

Opening Hours: 11:00-18:30 (Last Orders: 18:00)
Closed: Tuesdays

Official Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/any_cafe_sapporo/

 

If you are looking for delicious matcha desserts in Sapporo, let this article help you decide where to go. When your food cravings kick in, make sure to visit Kei‘s Instagram which is full of the most delicious meals, drinks and desserts in Hokkaido. 

 

Original Article Contents and Photos by: Kei (@607keih )

From their popular AWAPA Foam Party event where you can dance in a club filled with foam to their BATHTUB CINEMA event where you can watch a movie with your friends in a bathtub, Afro&Co. never fails to bring us new and creative ways to have fun. They are now collaborating with Saga prefecture to run the ‘ichigosan bus’: a sightseeing bus which will introduce you to wonderful spots in Tokyo with an unexpected strawberry twist to celebrate the first anniversary of Saga prefecture’s strawberry farm ‘ichigosan’. Enjoy strawberry picking inside the bus and then tuck into a strawberry-tastic afternoon tea set and much more. The bus will be running for a five day period from January 1 to 19, 2020.

ichigosan Afternoon Tea

ichigosan Panna Cotta

The ichigosan bus commemorates one-year since Saga Prefecture launched their new brand of delicious succulent strawberries called ‘ichigosan’. The collaboration hopes to spread the delicious flavour of ichigosan strawberries to as many people as possible with the five-day-limited strawberry-tastic bus tour. Hop on the red double-decker bus, which looks just like a London tour bus, to enjoy strawberry picking on floor one and an original strawberry afternoon tea set prepared by a chef from Royal Garden Cafe Aoyama on floor two.

ichigosan Crêpe

ichigosan Tart

This three-experience-in-one tour bus introduces you to the newest famous spots in the city, offers you a fun strawberry picking experience and even comes with a delicious strawberry afternoon tea set. You can book tickets in advance online and there are two kinds of tickets available for on-the-day purchases. As this is the best season to enjoy ichigosan strawberries in Japan, make the most of it on this tour and you will be berry pleased.

With the help of moe, we’ve covered the best food spots in Fukuoka to enjoy a beautiful scenery, for desserts and much more. Today, we’re joined by food Instagrammer moe again to introduce you to the top lunch spots in Fukuoka. 

cafe mii, Asakura

Curry Plate

cafe mii is one of those places that very few people know but is very delicious. The curry plate is full of spices and is accompanied by fried vegetables and many other side dishes. As Asakura is known for its delicious vegetables, this is the perfect opportunity to get your fill. The café is relaxing and the perfect spot to enjoy a quiet lunch.

 

▼cafe mii

Opening Hours: 11:00-17:00 (Last Orders: 14:30)

Closed: Wednesdays
Address: Floor 2, 531-2 Tonta, Asakura, Fukuoka
Website: https://www.instagram.com/cafe_mii/

 

Cosses, Chihaya

Plate Lunch

Cosses is a bakery shop full of pastries and desserts. The Plate Lunch includes a hamburger steak, soup, salad, yoghurt and much more. The thick bread that comes with the set perfectly completes it. The wide shop is full of delicious bread and pastries that would be perfect to bring back to your family.

 

▼Cosses

Opening Hours: 10:00-21:00 (Last Orders: 19:30)
No Regular Holidays

Address: Namiki Square Floor 1, 4-21-45, Chihaya, Higashi-ku, Fukuoka

Official Website：http://cosses.orto-cafe.com/

 

Chocolate Bar, Hirao

Chicken Curry Risotto

Whether you’re looking for lunch, dinner or a casual snack, this is the place to go. When you order the Chicken Curry Risotto, you can choose how spicy you want it. Risotto and curry is quite a rare combination, but it is very tasty. After your lunch, you can choose to have a gâteau au chocolat from the main menu. 

 

▼Chocolate Bar

Opening Hours: 

Lunch Menu:  11:30-15:00 (Last Orders: 15:00)

Café Menu: 14:00-17:00 (Closed from 17:00 to 18:00)

Dinner Menu: 18:00-22:00 (Closed from 22:00)
Closed: Sundays
Address: 1-11-22 Takamiya, Minami-ku, Fukuoka

Official Website: https://www.facebook.com/CHOCOLATE-BAR-726314500885075/

 

Filipepe, Kego

Dry-Cured Ham and Creamy Lemon Spaghetti

Filipepe is a hidden Italian restaurant. The Dry-Cured Ham and Creamy Lemon Spaghetti is covered in a refreshing lemon cream sauce. The thinly-sliced cured ham and creamy pasta make the perfect combination. The tongue-tantalizing menu also includes fish, meat and much more.

 

▼Filipepe

Opening Hours:

Lunch: 11:30-14:00 (Last Orders: 14:00)

Dinner: 18:00-21:00 (Last Orders: 21:00)
No Regular Holidays
Address: Floor 3, 3-1-28 Kego, Chuo Ward, Fukuoka,
Website: https://www.facebook.com/Filipepe-フィリペペ-699810910145678/

 

Good up coffee, Hairo

Homemade Red Bean Paste on Toast

Good up coffee’s homemade red bean paste on toast is often greeted by a long queue of customers. The fluffy bread is like a giant cushion and is filled with a generous serving of red bean paste. The butter melts, creating a moderate salty touch to the meal. This is a very popular shop and often sells out so if you want to try it, make sure to get there early.

 

▼Good up coffee

Opening Hours:

Monday, Tuesday, Friday, Saturday: 12:00-20:00

Wednesday and Sunday: 12:00-18:30
Closed: Thursdays
Address: 1-chōme-15-18 Takasago, Chuo-ku, Fukuoka
Official Website: https://www.instagram.com/good_up_coffee/

 

KURASUKOTO, Hairo

Lunch Plate

Fukuoka’s famous and popular café KURASUKOTO serves parfaits, doughnuts, puddings and other famous desserts as well as delicious lunches. Choose to have meat or fish for your lunch plate and it will be served with lots of healthy vegetables. The café also sells small miscellaneous goods too.

 

▼KURASUKOTO

Opening Hours:11:30-18:00
Closed: Mondays and Sundays
Address: Floor 2, 1-11-21 Hirao, Chuo Ward, Fukuoka
Official Website: https://www.kurasukoto.com/shop-hirao/

 

Eureka, Sakurazaka

Duck and Lotus Root Ragout Pasta

Bistro and café Eureka is an isolated restaurant located out of the way in a residential area. The Duck and Lotus Root Ragout Pasta is available in the lunchtime menu and is served with tasty relishes made from pomegranate and Japanese persimmon. Duck and lotus root is cooked in a delicious ragout sauce with tagliatelle. The meal comes with relishes so your stomach will be left completely satisfied.

 

▼Eureka

Opening Hours:Monday-Thursday: 12:00-20:00 （Last Orders: 19:00）

Friday and Saturday: 12:00-22:00（Last Orders: 21:00）
Closed: Sundays
Address: 1-4-19 Sakurazaka, Chuo-ku, Fukuoka

Official Website:https://www.instagram.com/eureka.sakurazaka

 

Yamamoto no Hamburg, Ropponmatsu

Hamburger

The Kanto region’s popular hamburger restaurant Yamamoto no Hamburg has opened in Fukuoka. Here, you can enjoy a burger served in a large curry bowl fit for a curry soup. The hamburger is surrounded by a hearty serving of sauce and is even topped with a mince cutlet. There is a bottle of Chinese red chile oil on the table for a satisfying meal. 

 

▼Yamamoto no Hamburg

Opening Hours:

Lunch: 11:30-15:30 (Last Orders: 14:30)

Dinner: 17:30-22:30 (Last Orders: 21:30)
No Regular Holidays
Address: Ropponmatsu Kobo Floor 1, Chuo Ward, Fukuoka

Official Website:  http://www.yamahan.tokyo/news/

 

 If you’re stuck on where to get lunch in Fukuoka, or love looking at gorgeous food, let moe’s Instagram be your guide. 

Original article contents and photos by: moe

Sanrio Puroland (Puroland) will be running its popular dessert-themed event “Sweets Puro very berry sweets Party” from January 10 to March 10, 2020. 

Puroland’s restaurants will be selling Sweets Puro-limited desserts full of a variety of berries. Restaurant Yakata on floor 4 will be serving a berry and chocolate-themed dessert buffet on select days.

As the first dessert buffet to be held since Puroland’s renovation, there will be a photo session allowing customers to take photos of the food and characters too. 

The event will also see the return of the evening main show “Miracle Illusion☆Happiness”, which was last performed in September 2019 and ended with guests longing for more. Hello Kitty and her beloved boyfriend Dear Daniel will also appear in adorable angel costumes. This is a wonderful chance to enjoy delicious desserts, fantastic illumination and beautiful projection mapping.

The “My Melody Strawberry Illuminations Ichigo Ichie” is another Sweets Puro-limited event to be returning this year following its popularity. This event will run from January 10 to February 14, 2020. From February 15 to March 10, 2020, Hello Kitty’s cute singing voice will echo throughout Puroland as she performs at the illumination show “SPARKLE!! Sweet Lights”.

After the illumination show, Puro Village will be illuminated entirely in sweet pink illumination. 

Meet the characters dressed in berry-themed costumes at the “Very Berry Character Hug Time” event and enjoy the Valentine’s Day and White Day-themed event “Special Sweets Greeting” (fee applies). 

You also can’t miss the dessert house photo spot and dessert-themed character merchandise, which will be available for a limited time only. 

 

Puroland will be bursting with sweet goodness that you just can’t miss next year.

 

©1976, 2009 SANRIO CO., LTD.©1976, 1990, 1993, 1996, 1999, 2001, 2004, 2010, 2019 SANRIO CO., LTD.

Our website has loads of information on delicious desserts and food to try in Fukuoka. Today we’ll be looking at the best places to try a traditional “Morning” according to expert Instagrammer moe. “Morning” is a typical breakfast enjoyed by the Japanese and is a great way to start the day. moe has been travelling from head to toe of Fukuoka, taste-testing different breakfasts and photographing them. Here are the findings. 

 

Full Full Kaze no Mori, Kashii-Kaenmae

Croque Madame Set and French Toast Set

Full Full recently opened at Kashii-Kaenmae. The Croque Madame Set or the French Toast Set is the perfect way to start your day. For the croque madame, their delicious bread made from special whole wheat flour is topped with tomatoes, bacon, white sauce and a sunny-side-up egg. The french toast is made from the same round bread used to make their popular Mentai France which is a baguette topped with creamy fish roe. The fluffy bread is topped with a crispy sweet sugar coating that is scorched like a crème brûlée.

 

▼Full Full Kaze no Mori

Opening Hours: 8:00-18:00 (Café Last Orders)
Closed: Tuesdays
Address: 7 Chome-4-2 Kasumigaoka, Higashi Ward, Fukuoka

Official Website: https://www.full-full.jp/

 

BAKERY TATSUYA, Minami

Simple yet stylish, BAKERY TATSUYA is white on the interior and exterior. There is space to eat-in so it is possible to enjoy your freshly baked goods upon purchase. There is so much variety that you will be spoilt for choice.

 

▼BAKERY TATSUYA

Opening Hours: 9:00-17:00
Closed: Mondays, every first and third Tuesday of the month.

Address: 2 Chome-45-29 Hanahata, Minami Ward, Fukuoka

Official Website: https://www.facebook.com/BakeryTatsuya

 

amam dacotan, Ropponmatsu

Fig Fruit Sandwich and Salted Milk Gelato Croissant 

amam dacotan’s crusty bread is so delicious that it appeared on TV. The shop is packed with different varieties of bread. Alongside the takeout menu there is also an eat-in-limited menu. The Salted Milk Gelato Croissant is an exquisite balance of sweetness and saltiness that you just have to try.

 

▼amam dacotan

Opening Hours: 10:00-19:00 (Sales end once stock is depleted)

Closed: Wednesdays
Address: 3-chōme-7-6 RopponmatsuChūō-ku, Fukuoka

Website: https://www.instagram.com/amam_dacotan/

 

Siro coffee, Josei

Red Bean Jam and Butter Sandwich with a Japanese Tea Latte

The simple and stylish interior of Siro Coffee has earned its Instagram fame. Treat yourself to a warm red bean paste and butter sandwich to enjoy the sweetness of the paste as it fuses with the saltiness of the butter. Everything is packed into a neat and beautiful small bun. The rich Japanese tea latte is the perfect way to finish off a refreshing meal. 

 

▼Siro coffee

Opening Hours: 12:00-19:00
Closed: Wednesdays and the first and third Tuesday of the month.
Address: 2-12-16 Josei, Sawara Ward, Fukuoka
Official Website: https://www.instagram.com/siro_coffee/

 

Shirogane Sabo, Hirao

Platinum Salad Morning

Shirogane Sabo’s classic pancakes can be simply enjoyed as they are for a buttery flavour or enhanced as you please by adding maple syrup or honey. The Platinum Salad Morning comes with juice, the platinum salad, classic pancakes and coffee. Shirogane Sabo can get quite crowded so it is best to reserve a time slot if you are set on going.

 

▼Shirogane Sabo
Opening Hours:

Weekdays: 10:00-22:00（Last Orders: 21:00）

Weekends and National Holidays: 8:00-22:00（Last Orders 21:00）
Address: 1 Chome-11-7 Shirogane, Chuo Ward, Fukuoka

No closing days.
Website: http://s-sabo.com/

 

Bread, Espresso & Hakata &, Fukuoka Ekimae

Teppan French Toast

Mu-Mentai

A Bread, Espresso & Hakata & opened in Hakata. This branch serves the Fukuoka-limited Mu-Mentai where you can enjoy a heap of creamy fish roe covered in butter and cream. The bread and sandwiches start to sell out past lunchtime so make sure you get there early if you are interested. 

 

▼Bread, Espresso & Hakata &

Opening Hours：8:00-20:00
No Regular Holidays
Address: 2-8-12 Hakataekimae, 1F, Hakata, Fukuoka
Website: https://www.instagram.com/bread.espresso.and.hakata/

 

Blue Jam, Sawara

Croissant d’Amande Choco Banana 

Blue Jam uses carefully-selected natural ingredients in their bread and pastries. The luxurious Croissant d’Amande Choco Banana is a three-in-one almond, banana and chocolate croissant. The melon pan here is also delicious.

 

▼Blue Jam

Opening Hours：8:00-18:00 (Last Orders: 17:30)
Closed: Sundays
Address: 3-1-41 Tamura, Sawara Ward, Fukuoka
Official Website: http://www.bluejam-fukuoka.com/

 

 So, what do you think? moe’s Instagram is full of the most delicious lunches you have ever seen. If you’re struggling on where to go for breakfast in Fukuoka, let moe’s Instagram be your guide. 

Original Article Information and Photos by:  moe

 When you think of Kyoto, matcha immediately comes to mind. Today with the help of the Kansai region’s expert dessert Instagrammer Tiara, we’ll be introducing you to the top matcha dessert shops of the Kansai region. 

 

Kawatomo, Fushimi 

Matcha Ganache Cake

Winter is here, which means that the season of strawberries has finally fallen upon Japan. Today we are joined by Instagrammer Tiara, who enjoys posting their adventures around Japan’s Kansai region to try out all of the sweets and desserts. We are taking a look at must-visit locations in Kyoto for a taste of their tempting strawberry delights.

 

LITT UP.KYOTO in Gion-Shijō

At LITT UP.KYOTO, their “ichigoame” lets you enjoy strawberries in their original cute form.

They are coated in sweet strawberry candy and served on sticks in cups reminiscent of something from a Japanese festival. Part of their allure is how perfect they are as a tasty treat for walking around with. There’s even popping candy attached to the strawberries for an even sweeter textural treat.

 

▼LITT UP.KYOTO Gion

Address: 533 Gionmachi Minamigawa, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto

Opening Hours: 10:00-18:00

Official Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/litt_up_kyoto/

 

Kissa Zou in Imadegawa

The “Kisetsu no Babaroa” (Seasonal Baravois) at Kissa Zou has an springy texture and sits in a sweet and sour strawberry sauce.

I recommend ordering one of the separate elephant cookies to place on top too to make this an even cuter dessert.

 

▼Kissa Zou

Address: 440-3 Santeicho, Kamigyo, Kyoto

Opening Hours: 9:00-18:00 (Last Orders 17:00)

No Fixed Holidays

Official Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kissa_zou/

 

Chounohane in Fushimi

At Chounohane they are serving strawberry barquettes as well as mini versions of them. The dessert itself is of course beautiful, but is made even more so by the antique plate♡

 

▼Chounohane

Address: 791 Nishishujakucho, Fushimi Ward, Kyoto, Kyoto Prefecture

Opening Hours: [Tues/Sat/Sun] Shop & Cafe 11:00-17:00 / [Fri] Shop Only 11:00-17:00

Official Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chounohane/

 

Utanekodo in Kyoto Shiyakusho-mae

Utanekodo was renovated from a 100+ year old building and has its own cat cafe. The cafe space is located on the first floor.

Their “Nyanko Strawberry Milk” speaks for itself, topped with adorable kitty ice cream and delicious with its subtly sweet taste.

 

▼Utanekodo

Address: 155-4 Tachibanayanagicho, Nakagyo Ward, Kyoto, Kyoto Prefecture

Opening Hours: 13:00-20:00 (Last Orders 19:00)

No Fixed Holidays

Official Website: http://utanekodo.com/

 

MASHOLA in Kyoto Shiyakusho-mae

Finally we have the “Strawberry Tiramisu Cube Cake” served at MASHOLA, a Korean-style cafe. This cake is made with refreshing homemade tiramisu cream, delightful sponge, and is packed full of sweet and sour strawberries which complement the entire thing.

 

▼MASHOLA

Address: 1-A MOVIX, 406 Sakuranocho, Nakagyo Ward, Kyoto, Kyoto Prefecture

Opening Hours: 10:00-20:00

Official Website: https://mashola.business.site/

 

All of these cafes are wonderful, so if you’re in Kyoto for the strawberry season, be sure to visit as many as you can.

 

Tiara has plenty of other recommendations over on their Instagram page, so if you’re a sweet tooth looking for something sweet to indulge in around the Kansai area, be sure to give them a follow.

 

Text & Photos: ＠happy_pinkrose_tiara

Translation: Joshua Kitosi-Isanga

The cold weather is here, and it’s only set to get colder. When winter falls in Japan, one of the best things people like to do is cook hot pot. Hoshino Resorts is offering the same service for guests this winter at 14 branches of their ‘KAI’ onsen ryokan (hot spring Japanese inn) brand hotels up and down Japan, with each hot pot filled with the taste of local cuisine.

 

Winter is truly the best time to eat hot pot for Japanese people, as they huddle around the table nice and toasty and tuck into their piping hot dinner. We’re showcasing 9 of the hot pots you can enjoy at Hoshino Resorts KAI this winter season.

 

Hoshino Resorts KAI Tsugaru: “Gyu Shabu” – Dashi made delicious with plentiful dried tuna

KAI Tsugaru is situated in Aomori, and this hot pot is made one with one of the prefecture’s most famous ingredients: tuna, which is caught during the autumn and winter seasons. The main player of this beef shabu hot pot is its dashi which is made from the sweet juices of tuna which go deliciously well with the beef. If you’re looking for a hot pot that’s a little different from the usual options, you’ll love this one.

 

Running: September 1, 2019 – February 29, 2020 (Except December 29-January 1)
Plan Name: Ooma no Gaguro Zukushi Kaiseki (大間のまぐろづくし会席)
Price: From ¥24,000
Reservations: https://www.hoshinoresorts.com/en/resortsandhotels/kai/tsugaru.html

 

 

Hoshino Resorts KAI Kaga: “Kani Sukinabe” – Zuwai-gani snow crab

At KAI Kaga, which is located in Yamashiroonsen, Ishikawa, this hot pot they have cooked up is made in a kombu dashi and is filled with legs of zuwai-gani snow crab and a variety of winter vegetables like bok choy and edible chrysanthemums.

The dish makes full use of the delicious flavour of the crab. It’s also served in kunitani-ware made by a young craftsman and Yamanaka lacquer ware, adding to the originality of this hot pot.

 

Running: November 7, 2019 – March 10, 2020 (Except December 29-January 6)
Plan Name: Katsu Kani Zukushi no Tagu Zuki Kani Kaiseki (活蟹づくしのタグ付き蟹会席)
Price: From ¥47,000
Reservations: https://www.hoshinoresorts.com/en/resortsandhotels/kai/kaga.html

 

Hoshino Resorts KAI Alps: “Yuki Nabe” – Thawing of spring

The hot pot at KAI Alps in Nagano includes fluffy cotton candy which is based on the snowy mountains of the alps. When you pour the soup over, the cotton candy melts, symbolising the thawing of spring, to reveal the beef and vegetables. The cotton candy adds a light sweetness to the soup as well as fun visual effect.

 

Running: December 1, 2019 – May 31, 2020 (Except December 31-January 3)
Plan Name: Yuki Nabe Kaiseki (雪鍋会席)
Price: From ¥25,000
Reservations: https://www.hoshinoresorts.com/en/resortsandhotels/kai/alps.html

 

 

Hoshino Resorts KAI Kinugawa: “Ise Ebi & Roast Beef Ryujin Nabe” – The dragon god’s hot pot

KAI Kinugawa in Tochigi has created a hot pot based around the legend of the Ryuokyo dragon god, capturing its malevolence. It’s cooked over stones heated to almost 800℃.The soup bubbles as the pot begins to boil and cooks the seafood and other local ingredients from Tochigi, making sure to draw every last delicious drop of flavour from them.

 

Running: December 1, 2019 – February 29, 2020 (Except December 28-January 4)
Plan Name: Ise Uni to Gyuu Roosu no Ryuujin Nabe Kaiseki (伊勢海老と牛ロースの龍神鍋会席)
Price: From ¥31,000
Reservations: https://www.hoshinoresorts.com/en/resortsandhotels/kai/kinugawa.html

 

Hoshino Resorts KAI Sengokuhara: “Uni & Beef Sukinabe” – Satisfying spices from the mountains and seas

KAI Sengokuhara in Kanagawa has created a hot pot that’s made with lots of ingredients from the mountains and the seas. By using a bounty of uni, which goes incredibly well with beef, it adds a rich sweetness to the overall flavour. There is also a secret flavour hidden under it all: syrup made from the ao mikan citrus which grows in the city of Odawara. This not only adds an exquisite sourness to the hot pot, but also serves to elevate the sweetness of the uni.

 

Running: June 1, 2019 – February 29, 2020
Plan Name: Uni to Gyuu no Sukinabe Kaiseki (雲丹と牛のすき鍋会席)
Price: From ¥46,000
Reservations: https://www.hoshinoresorts.com/en/resortsandhotels/kai/sengokuhara.html

 

 

Hoshino Resorts KAI Ito: “Sankai Nabe” – Soaking up the mountains and seas of Ito

Shizuoka is home to KAI Ito, where guests can enjoy yet another hot pot lavish with ingredients from the mountains and the seas, like splendid alfonsino―which Ito enjoys an abundance of―as well as seasonal vegetables and beef. There are two soups to combine these ingredients with: a bouillabaisse which contains a dashi made from fish from Ito filled with splendid alfonsino and vegetables, and a beef soup.

 

Running: October 1, 2019 – February 29, 2020 (Except December 31-January 3)
Plan Name: Sankai Nabe (山海鍋)
Price: From ¥25,000
Reservations: https://www.hoshinoresorts.com/en/resortsandhotels/kai/ito.html

 

Hoshino Resorts KAI Enshu: “Tecchiri” – A taste of the Torafugu tiger pufferfish

KAI Enshu is another hot spring inn, located in Hamamatsu in Shizuoka. Their “Tecchiri” is made with Torafugu tiger pufferfish. None of the flavour of the fugu is wasted in this hot pot, and that is proven as the entire thing is made right in front of customers’ eyes. The zōsui is made with a KAI Enshu-original blend of sencha green tea called souka (爽華), which ensures that element of locality is included in the dish as Shizuoka is famous for its tea.

 

Running: October 5, 2019 – March 31, 2020 (Except December 29-January 3)
Plan Name: Fugu Zukushi Kaiseki (ふぐづくし会席)
Price: From ¥31,000
Reservations: https://www.hoshinoresorts.com/en/resortsandhotels/kai/enshu.html

 

 

Hoshino Resorts KAI Izumo: “Kani Sukinabe” – Collaboration between Katsu Matsubagani & Shijimi

KAI Izumo is situated in Tamatsukuri Onsen, an onsen hot spring in Tamayu, Shimane. Their “Kani Sukinabe” is made with rich snow crab crab which has an exquisite sweetness and is soft in texture. From beginning to end, this hot pot is a crab party in your mouth.

 

Running: November 7, 2019 – March 10, 2020 (Except December 31-January 4)
Plan Name: Tagu Zuki Katsu Matsubagani Zukushi Kaiseki (タグ付き活松葉蟹づくし会席)
Price: From ¥45,000
Reservations: https://www.hoshinoresorts.com/en/resortsandhotels/kai/izumo.html

 

 

Hoshino Resorts KAI Aso: “Netakuri Nabe” – Rich miso and cheese

The base of the soup in KAI Aso, located in Kumamoto, is a mix of milk from Jersey cattle and miso. It contains wagyu Japanese beef and seasonal vegetables. Its appearance is based on the Aso Caldera region of Kumamoto Prefecture and its incredibly vast grasslands.

 

Running: September 1, 2019 – February 29, 2020 (Except December 29-January 3)
Plan Name: Wagyuu to Caciocavallo o Tanoshimu Netakuri Nabe (和牛とカチョカヴァロを楽しむねたくり鍋)
Price: From ¥46,000
Reservations: https://www.hoshinoresorts.com/en/resortsandhotels/kai/aso.html

 

 

Below is a video which showcases each of these local hot pot dishes, so be sure to check it out if you’re not already watering at the mouth

 

All of these hot pots are made with only the best local ingredients as expected of KAI, and all are available for the rest of winter only. Guests can experience the local regions not only through the food, but in the tableware each hotel uses. If you’re in Japan this winter, be sure to book with one of the many Hoshino Resorts KAI branches and stay warm with a delicious serving of hot pot.

Travel booking website Rakuten Travel has revealed the 2019 ranking for Japan’s most popular onsen, or “hot spring” sites for women travelling alone. Taking the crown at No. 1 is Hakodate Yunokawa Onsen in Hokkaido.

Night view of Hakodate

The Le Havre lounge in Hakodate Kokusai Hotel

Hakodate Yunokawa Onsen placed at No. 3 in last year’s ranking. It rated highly amongst women for it being so close to Hakodate Airport, as well as it being easy to access local tourist and sightseeing spots by train from there like the Hakodate Morning Market (Hakodate Asaichi) and Mount Hakodate, which is listed as one of Japan’s Three Night Views. The area also offers a variety of accommodation options, from long-standing traditional ryokan inns to business hotels.

Dogo Onsen

In second place is Dogo Onsen, a hugely popular hot spring location with Dogo Yamanote Hotel having ranked number one in Rakuten Travel’s list for the most leisurely accommodations for women travelling solo.

Rose Bath at Dogo Yamanote Hotel

In recent years, the number of plans for women travelling solo as well as services for renting open air baths for one person have been on the increase. Dogo Onsen is a 25-minute train journey from Matsuyama Station via the JR line and a 40-minute bus ride from Matsuyama Airport.

Hakone Tozan Railway

Hakone Yumoto Onsen ranks at No. 3. Despite the effects of the earthquake, the hot spring has enjoyed solid popularity, with Rakuen Travel having given travel coupons and offering special plans to help raise money and support the area. It’s only about an hour and a half’s train ride from Shinjuku Station, it offers plans to stay at local hotels, and it’s easy to set up a travel plan to visit there, which is what has led to its popularity.

 

Yugawara Onsen in Kanagawa came in 4th place, while Yufuin Onsen in Oita came in 5th. Use this list as reference when planning which hot springs to visit in Japan.