Insights from a Kagurazaka Store Owner

Episode 4: Insights from a Kagurazaka Store Owner – The Seasonal Beauty of the Geisha District and the Grace of Geisha – An Interview with Ayumi Terada, Proprietress of Yukimoto In Tokyo

The Kagurazaka Geisha District Recovered Earlier Than the Other Five Districts in Tokyo This is the fourth installment in our Kagurazaka...

Episode 3: Insights from a Kagurazaka Store Owner – Discover the 400-Year History of Soumaya, a Stationery Store in Tokyo’s Kagurazaka

Exploring Japanese Culture and History Through Stationery Store in Tokyo's Kagurazaka This is the third installment in our series...

Episode 2: Insights from a Kagurazaka Store Owner – The History and Evolution of Toushien Pottery Shop in Tokyo

Kagurazaka Store Owner Interview Series In the second installment of our Kagurazaka store owner Interview series exploring the charm of...

Episode 1: Insights from a Kagurazaka Store Owner – “Japanese Pottery Should Be Held to Be Appreciated” – Exploring Maruoka Toen and the Charm of Ceramics in Tokyo

Kagurazaka Store Owner Interview Series Begins This marks the start of the series " Exploring the Charm of Kagurazaka’s Shopping Street...

A Traditional Japanese Kaiseki Dinner with Geisha in Tokyo: Celebrating Seasonal Ingredients Even Locals Envy

Imagine two very different evenings. In one, your curiosity about the dishes and the geisha’s attire remains unanswered. In the other, every question is illuminated—your menu reveals the rhythm of the seasons, and the okami, the proprietress of the historic ryotei, shares the meaning behind the kimono and hair ornaments, with her words seamlessly translated for you. Which would you choose? If your aim is simply to admire the beauty of a geisha’s dance, a stage show may suffic

Shinya Yamada

Sep 3, 20255 min read

Best Izakaya in Tokyo & Japan: A Local Expert's Guide

Freshly updated for 2026 — including the latest on the weak yen, prices, and how to find the tours locals actually go on. Table of Contents Why I've Fallen in Love with Izakayas What Exactly is an Izakaya? Understanding the Soul of an Izakaya in Japan How to Enjoy an Izakaya Like a Local: "Magic Words" and Manners An Expert's Guide to Drinks: Choosing the Perfect Sake A Word of Caution: How to Avoid Tourist Traps The Best Izakaya Areas in Tokyo (and Beyond) Why Izakaya Cultur

Shinya Yamada

Jul 21, 202511 min read