[Kyoto] Meet the Japanese Monkeys of Kyoto in Arashiyama Monkey Park

Japanese monkeys, also known as Japanese macaques or snow monkeys, are a unique species that live exclusively on the Japanese archipelago, excluding Hokkaido and Okinawa prefectures. Among all the popular destinations across the country where tourists can observe wild Japanese monkeys, Arashiyama Monkey Park, peaked on Iwatayama Mountain in Kyoto is especially recommended for its breathtaking location, easy accessibility, and the unique opportunity to interact with the monkeys in their natural habitat. Set on a scenic hillside, the park offers stunning panoramic views of Kyoto, making it a perfect spot to combine wildlife observation with a bit of light hiking and photography.

Kyoto

2024.12.01

[Kyoto] Step Into the World of Samurai and Ninjas at SAMURAI NINJA MUSEUM KYOTO With Experience

If you are planning a visit to Kyoto, Japan’s ancient capital, you will likely want to include some historical and cultural experiences in your itinerary. Whether you are a history enthusiast or simply curious, don’t miss the SAMURAI NINJA MUSEUM KYOTO With Experience. Located in Kawaramachi, this interactive museum offers a wide range of unique activities, from exploring an extensive collection of samurai displays to participating in immersive ninja experiences you won’t find anywhere else.

Kyoto

2024.11.29

[Hamamatsucho] Enjoy Vegetarian-friendly Sushi Cuisine at Vegan Sushi Tokyo, Shibuya

Traveling as a vegan can sometimes present challenges, especially in countries where the cuisine heavily relies on non-vegan ingredients. Japan is no exception. Though awareness of veganism is growing in the country, many traditional Japanese dishes, such as sushi and ramen, often include non-vegan ingredients like fish, eggs, or meat, making it challenging for vegans to enjoy authentic Japanese cuisine. There are also many dishes that appear vegan, but actually contain fish-based dashi broth.

If you're a vegan traveler yearning for an authentic and unforgettable Japanese meal, there's a gem waiting for you in Shibuya: Vegan Sushi Tokyo. This restaurant offers a culinary experience that’s not only completely plant-based but so delicious that even non-vegan travelers will want to stop by!

Hamamatsucho

2024.11.25

[Kyoto] A Taste of Traditional Japanese Culture at Kyoto’s Gion Corner

Nestled in the heart of Gion, one of the most famous geisha districts in Kyoto, Gion Corner is a traditional Japanese performing arts show held in the Annex Theater of the city’s cultural venue Gion Kobu Kaburenjo. This unique program features seven traditional performing arts (six during wintertime), including an elegant Kyomai dance by maiko (apprentice geisha), an authentic chanoyu tea ceremony, and the intricate art of ikebana flower arrangement, and more. For Japanese culture lovers, this is the place where you can immerse yourself in the essence of Japanese heritage, whether exploring independently or with a group.

Kyoto

2024.11.14

[Asakusa] Satisfy your Hunger for Japanese Beef at Gyukatsu Kyoto Katsugyu

A new culinary trend has been sweeping Japan in recent years: gyukatsu, or deep-fried beef cutlets. Best known for its crispy exterior and juicy medium-rare pink interior, the dish’s visual appeal and delicious taste had made it popular on social media. If you’re a foodie searching for a great way to enjoy Japanese beef during your stay in Japan, you can’t go wrong with gyukatsu!

Asakusa

2024.10.31

[Kyoto] Breathtaking Seasonal Scenery from the Windows of Kyoto’s Sagano Romantic Train

Nestled between lush green mountains in western Kyoto, the Sagano Romantic Train is a unique locomotive designed specifically for sightseeing. This charming five-car passenger train runs along tracks that follow the scenic Arashiyama area and the winding Hozukyō Gorge, offering passengers stunning views of Kyoto's breathtaking natural landscapes.

Kyoto

2024.10.30

[Hamamatsucho] Exploring Odaiba, the man-made island in Tokyo Bay

If you are staying at HOTEL TAVINOS Hamamatsucho, you have a perfect opportunity to visit Odaiba – a shopping and entertainment area on an artificial island in Tokyo Bay, popular among tourists and locals alike.

Hamamatsucho

2024.10.28

[Kyoto] Matcha Tea Ceremony Experiences in Kyoto: Where and How to Make Your Own Matcha

A Taste You’ll Love—Uji Matcha.
This powdered green tea packs a punch! And its beloved throughout the world for the robust flavor it lends to various desserts and candies. But have you ever drunk a bowl of pure matcha? Better yet, have you ever tried it in Kyoto, a place renowned for the tea ceremony? 

The first record of tea drinking in Japan dates back to around 1,200 years ago, when the custom was introduced to the Japanese aristocracy by scholarly monks returning from China. It is believed that tea cultivation in Japan began around this time, and Zen Master Eisai (1141-1215), also known as Yōsai, played a significant role in popularizing tea in Japan during his lifetime. 

Over the years, tea consumption in Japan evolved into a cultural tradition known as the Japanese tea ceremony, also called sadō, chadō, or chanoyu. During the Muromachi period (1336-1573), tea ceremonies became a popular way for hosts to entertain guests through the meticulous preparation and presentation of tea, sweets, and sometimes meals.

Kyoto

2024.10.04

[Asakusa] More than Just Maps: Why You Should Check Out the Asakusa Culture Tourist Information Center in Tokyo

[Hamamatsucho] Tokyo Day Trip Idea: Get Around the City with Sky Hop Bus, the Hop-On Hop-Off Sightseeing Bus

From towering skyscrapers to serene temples, vibrant shopping districts, and rich cultural sites, Tokyo offers endless possibilities for things to do and see. But, with so much to see and limited time during your trip, how do you decide which places to visit? If you’re staying at Hotel Tavinos Hamamatsucho, riding the Sky Hop Bus is a great way to make the most of your time in Tokyo.

Hamamatsucho

2024.09.30

[Kyoto] Visit Manpuku-ji Temple for Shōjin Ryōri, a Buddhist Vegetarian Cuisine

Kyoto

2024.08.31

[Hamamatsucho] Time travel through Tokyo's charming yokocho alleys

Not only is Tokyo one of the largest cities in the world, it’s a city undergoing constant change. Buildings are built and torn down, neighborhoods are redeveloped and new cityscapes are born in the Japanese capital, almost in the blink of an eye. It’s not surprising, then, that some parts of Tokyo that are the slowest to change enjoy an enduring popularity. This is true of Tokyo’s yokocho, a term that means side street or back alley. These lanes tucked away near railway hubs are fascinating gateways to the past as well as culinary and shopping adventures. This article covers three of the best yokocho in Tokyo.

Hamamatsucho

2024.08.29

[Asakusa] Cool Down at These 3 Kakigori Shaved Ice Spots in Tokyo

Asakusa

2024.08.28

[Hamamatsucho] "Toyosu Senkyaku Banrai"✨ Great access from the hotel and more!

Have you heard of the new facility "Toyosu Senkyaku Banrai" next to Toyosu Market? This place offers both hot springs and, delivered right from Toyosu Market, fresh food, and is just a short train ride away from HOTEL TAVINOS Hamamatsucho! 😲✨
This time, we will be introducing to you the charms of "Toyosu Senkyaku Banrai"!

Hamamatsucho

2024.07.31

[Asakusa] Exploring Kappabashi Dougu Street: A Must-Visit Kitchen Town for Tourists in Tokyo

When visiting Asakusa, a popular destination for its historic temples and vibrant streets, don’t miss the chance to explore Kappabashi Dougo Street. Also known as Kitchen Town, Kappabashi Dougu Street in Tokyo is a famous shopping street lined with stores selling kitchenware, restaurant supplies, and food replicas. It is a popular destination for both professional chefs and home cooks seeking high-quality cooking tools and equipment. It’s also an excellent place to find practical souvenirs that will remind you every day of your trip to Japan. Here are three shops that you’ll definitely want to check out during your visit.

Asakusa

2024.07.29