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15 Must-Try Restaurants in Ikebukuro: From Aged Yakiniku to All-You-Can-Eat Sushi, Plus Adorable Animal Cafés

Ikebukuro Yakiniku

Located along the bustling JR Yamanote Line and connected to various subway routes, Ikebukuro is a vibrant Tokyo district renowned for its shopping malls and diverse stores. But it's not just about shopping – Ikebukuro offers a rich culinary scene too, with a variety of restaurants to explore. In this guide, we'll highlight 15 must-try restaurants in Ikebukuro, ranging from yakiniku shops to cozy cafés, ensuring you find the perfect spot for any occasion. Main image: LIVE JAPAN articles, kkday, Gurunavi (Top left: Yakiniku TORAJI, Bottom left: Tora Fugu Tei, Top right: Kushikamishu MONOGATARI, Bottom right: Happiness Pancake)

What to Do in Tokyo in June 2024: Roundup of Tokyo Area Events and Festivals

Ryogoku / TOKYO SKYTREE(R) Spring

Tokyo events in June are shaped by the rainy season, known as "tsuyu." As the city awaits the arrival of summer, cloudy and rainy days become the norm. The Japan Meteorological Agency predicts that Tokyo's rainy season in 2024 will start in early June. Despite the weather, there are unique events to enjoy, such as the Hydrangea Train along the Hakone Tozan Railway and indoor exhibitions perfect for rainy days. Outdoor music festivals, traditional events, and flea markets also take place, providing plenty of opportunities to enjoy the city in June.

Learn the Art of Flower Arrangement at Ohara School of Ikebana

Harajuku Other Traditional Arts

Ikebana, flower arrangement, is one of Japan’s most treasured art forms, a time-honored tradition that continues to be relevant even in today’s modern society. Beautifully arranged flowers and plants have permeated Japanese culture in a way that is seldom found in others. The Ohara School of Ikebana has played a major part in keeping the tradition alive, through its many schools in Japan, as well as its 59 chapters abroad, with over 300,000 members worldwide. The beauty of the Ohara School is not only in its floral arrangements, but its ability to share the culture of ikebana with the world. I visited the Ohara Center of Tokyo to try an ikebana class to learn more about this traditional art form.

Top 15 Hakone Onsen Accommodations for a Comfortable and Blissful Stay

Hakone / Odawara Ryokan

Hakone Onsen is one of Japan's most well-known hot spring destinations, and it's just a short 80-minute ride from Shinjuku on the Odakyu Romancecar express train, making it easily accessible. Hakone has long been a favorite spot for travelers in Japan, offering not only the unique Hakone Ju-nana-yu (Hakone's Seventeen Hot Spring Sources) but also the changing beauty of each season, including cherry blossoms in spring, hydrangeas in summer, vibrant autumn foliage, and pristine winter snowscapes. LIVE JAPAN has handpicked 15 hot spring facilities in Hakone to enhance your journey, creating unique memories filled with soaking in hot springs, admiring picturesque landscapes, and savoring delicious cuisine! Image sources: Original and Booking.com (Hakone Lake Ashinoko Hanaori Ryokan / Hotel Green Plaza Hakone / Hakone Tent Onsen Ryokan / Rakuten STAY VILLA Hakone Sengokuhara)

Hakone Kinnotake Tonosawa: One of the Top Ryokan in Japan!

Hakone / Odawara Ryokan

Hakone stands out as a cherished getaway, showcasing the essence of Japan's natural beauty, ambiance, cultural richness, and culinary delights. Its fame, especially for the hot spring resorts, resonates with both locals and visitors, attributed to its convenient proximity to the urban core. A standout place to stay in Hakone is Kinnotake Tonosawa, nestled in the Tonosawa region close to Hakone-Yumoto Station. This tranquil inn offers a serene haven for those in search of a tranquil escape. In this piece, two experienced guides relay their personal reflections and insights from their stay at this hotel. The contributors are Chia-chi, a team member of Live Japan from Taiwan, who cherishes serene getaways from everyday hustle, and Miyu Shimada, a native of Japan, committed to exploring the globe throughout her life.

18 Rainy-Day Activities in Tokyo: Unique Japanese Experiences and Indoor Adventures

Shibuya Other Sightseeing

While you may be eagerly anticipating your trip to Tokyo, you may also be worried about inconvenient conditions like rain or inclement weather putting a damper on things. Japan’s rainy season spans from June to July, primarily affecting the Honshu region, with typhoons occurring frequently between summer and fall. So it’s safe to say that bad weather is pretty common throughout the year. That’s why today, in order to ensure your Tokyo visit will be fun no matter the weather, we've compiled a list of 18 recommended activities to make the most out of your time in the city, even on rainy days! Top image: PIXTA

Choice Spots

  • Akihabara
  • Asakusa
  • Ginza
  • Harajuku
  • Ikebukuro
  • Roppongi
  • Shibuya
  • Shinjuku
  • Tokyo Station
  • Tsukiji
  • Ueno

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