Japan’s been everyone and their mother’s dream destination lately, especially with the Japanese yen dropping recently. Which is why I’m so grateful I was able to explore three popular cities for my 24th birthday.
I flew back to Japan for a nice little autumn trip. You’re going to think I’m absolutely nuts. Here’s what I ate in Tokyo during my three-day trip.
I had to try the viral cafe. I tried a couple lattes. I can’t tell you how good the hochija latte was. It’s nutty, toasty and you can taste sweet notes of caramel.
2. Gyukatsu Motomura (Shibuya location)
I was seeing this all over social media and I knew I didn’t want to leave Japan without some gyukatsu (beef cutlet). There is a bit of a wait – we waited 40 minutes, but it’s so yummy, it’s worth it!
3. Strawberry tanghulu
Found a little stand near Senso-ji temple and I definitely had to get this again. The strawberries just taste so much better than they do back home.
4. Isomaru Suisan (Shinjuku location)
I had a melt-in-your-mouth unadon (grilled eel rice bowl) that I’ve been dreaming of since I got home. Pair that with a beautiful sashimi assortment and I’m the happiest girl!
This easily overlooked shop has 7 different levels of matcha ice cream. YES, SEVEN. You know I had to try the richest. It’s such a refreshing scoop of ice cream. The hochija flavour would have to be my favourite though!
I ate here twice because of how good it was. It’s super affordable and you get really great value. The Akihabara location had cuts of Kobe beef, which was such a nice surprise!
I’m always ready for a custard-filled pastry! I got this for dessert two different times. This little shop closes at 10 PM, making it perfect for evening strolls in Asakusa.
My last meal was at a small ramen shop near the hotel. And how cute is the little carrot butterfly? The perfect way to end the trip on a breezy fall night.
9. 7/11
The reliable and best konbini [hearthands emoji]. Every morning started with a quick trip to the 7/11 across the street to get onigiri, tuna rolls and karaage (fried chicken) skewers.
Despite the length of the trip, I had an incredible trip! I loved every bite and can’t wait to go back and discover more delicious spots to eat.
The Lilac Blog 