Known as the Little Kyoto, Kanazawa is the capital city of Ishikawa prefecture. Filled with beautiful historical houses, geisha and samurai districts, traditional arts and handicrafts and beautifully preserved gardens, Kanazawa is one of the most significant cities of the Edo period.

With the new shinkansen (bullet train) line directly linking Tokyo to Kanazawa, it is now so easy and (much faster) to travel to Kanazawa.

Kanazawa Gold Leaf

Did you know that Kanazawa produces 99% of all gold leaf in Japan, and 100% of domestic silver and platinum leaf?

Feather thin at 0.1 to 0.125 millionths of a meter, Kanazawa’s Gold Leaf is extremely well known for its superiority. It never oxidises or changes color, and so thin it will disappear when you rub with your fingers.

Once you arrive in Kanazawa, you will soon notice gold leaf being used in everything (almost), from food, arts and crafts to interiors.

And yes, Kanazawa is the only place you can enjoy gold-leaf-wrapped soft serve ice-cream, and even gold-leaf castella cake. These have been on my bucket list, ever since I read about them on a Japanese site.

For the gold-leaf-wrapped soft serve, highly recommend Haruichi located at Higashi Chaya district. The creamy milky ice cream is to die for, not to mention the opulence enjoyment of Japan’s finest gold leaf.

If you prefer something different, at Kanazawa station, a café retails silver- and gold-leaf wrapped soft serve ice-cream. 

The Gold castella cake is available at Kanazawa station too. You will see an entire hall filled with well-known omiyage, food and other souvenir stores selling Kanazawa products.

I was literally squealing in joy when I managed to get my hands on these cakes. They even come in limited time cutout shapes, like these ones I got.

Kagaonsen

To the south of Kanazawa city center, just 30mins’ train ride, Kaga Onsen (加賀温泉) is well-known for its collection of four hot spring towns. Highly regarded as the onsen destination by the locals, you can choose from a variety ryokan stays with baths.

It is a lovely experience for visitors and residents alike, and gives tourists with a local bathing experience that is one of a kind.

HigashiChaya and Samurai district

The best way to explore and experience the Edo history of Kanazawa is through a personalised tour with a local guide.

Through Expedia.com.sg, I booked the Samurai & Geisha Districts, Kanazawa Castle and Kenroku-en Garden Tour.

Taking a beautiful stroll along the well-preserved walls and entrances of Samurai family houses, I so wish I was dressed in Kimono. I would’ve gotten some seriously lovely pictures!

Our local guide also taught us how to recognise the architectural designs that marked these Samurai family houses.

Continuing our journey, we reached Higashi Chaya District, my favourite part of the tour.

Intimate streets with wooden lattice geisha houses, I enjoyed strolling through the geisha teahouses now filled with local stores selling Kanazawa products, wares, omiyage souvenirs and food.

We took a midday respite for lunch at Ushioya for their Fired Buri Yellowtail Sashimi bento, thanks to the recommendation by the local guide, Yamamoto san.

Kanazawa Castle Park and Kenroku-en Garden

The second part of our Samurai & Geisha Districts, Kanazawa Castle and Kenroku-en Garden Tour, was to see the beautifully restored 16th century Kanazawa Castle. 

Once home of the feudal lord Maeda Toshiie and his family, this white tile roofed castle is a beautiful sight to behold!

Nature lovers would also enjoy Kenroku-en Garden, for its lush greenery and peaceful tranquillity. 

Omicho Market

If you love local markets, fresh seafood and produce, then you must visit Omicho Market.

Omicho Market is the largest fresh food market of Kanazawa. I really liked how it had all the right vibes without being overly crowded, unlike Kyoto’s Nishiki market or Tsukiji in Tokyo, which can be teaming with tourists and overwhelming for any traveller.

Like all fresh food markets, the market is lined with speciality stores selling the freshest local seafood and produce; you can even find kitchen tools, clothing and flowers. Store owners and workers cheerfully shouting out the best deals to attract customers, locals buying produce home, here is where you can experience the real hustle and bustle of Japanese market activities.

Also spot seasonal produce such as these Matsutake mushrooms, the most expensive mushrooms known for its earthy flavour. One of the hardest to cultivate, these mushrooms are only available during the autumn season.

Before you leave, remember to try the popular Kaisendon (sashimi seafood rice bowl) at Omicho Market, almost every single sushi restaurant serves this popular dish.

We went for the well-known Yamada Sushi and queued for about 20mins before we got a seat. Just look at this overflowing bowl of sashimi! 

Shirakawa-Go Tour (UNESCO World Heritage Site)

If you are in Kanazawa, it is also a good opportunity to visit its UNESCO world heritage site – Shirakawa-go. Famous for their traditional gassho-zukuri farmhouses, some are over 250 years old!

Gassho-zukuri means “constructed like hands in prayer”. You would notice the signature steep thatched roofs, resembling the hands of Buddhist monks pressing together in prayer. And because of this unique architecture, these roofs can withstand large amount of heavy snow during winter. 

Visiting during winter and snowy season is popular for that dreamy picturesque view of the thatched roofs covered with thick layers of snow.

If you want a fuller experience, you can even choose to do a short stay at Shirakawa-go at one of their farmhouses serving as minshuku.

******

Many thanks to Expedia.com.sg for the experience!

The post Kanazawa, the little kyoto appeared first on Little Miss Bento.

7 best things about Nagoya

Earlier on, when I first shared with a few friends of my planned Expedia trip to Nagoya, many gave me the puzzled look, or asked “where is Nagoya?”, “what’s so special about Nagoya?”

Located in the center of Japan, and easily accessible via shinkansen or direct flight to Nagoya’s Central Japan International Airport, this vibrant city is often overlooked. 

Singapore has direct flights to Central Japan International Airport of Nagoya, or you can easily get here via bullet train from/to Kyoto (a mere 30mins ride) or about 1hr 40mins from/to Tokyo. 

With a long history since the feudal lords era, Nagoya went through the Edo period to being one of the key modern cities of Japan, while retaining strong traditions and its own Nagoya-meshi (local cuisines). 

So if you are thinking about what to do, here is rounding up the 7 best things about Nagoya!

Enjoy Onsen ryokan away from the City

This is omotenashi (Japanese hospitality) at its very best. If you love traditional accommodation, impeccable service, onsen, ocean views, amazing food (the list goes on), then you just need to venture out of Nagoya city central a little to Wakamatsu Chita Hot Spring Resort located at Utsumi. 

With a personalised ferry service from the train station, a phone call to the ryokan brought me and my hubby to the door of this beautiful ryokan. Greeted by the sweetest ladies in Kimono, we were brought their in-house matcha tea, wagashi sweets as well as a warm foot soak at the lobby, coupled with ocean view.

After choosing 3 of my favourite yukata robes (one for each night I stayed there), we went to our room. Extremely spacious with the biggest bed I have ever seen (seriously, larger than king), we had the most gorgeous room of tatami flooring, and the scent of cedar wood filled our nostrils as we took in the setting of our accommodation. 

With two private onsen baths (one outdoor and one indoor), and two public onsen baths (one for male and one for female), it’s time to enjoy onsen.

During night time, it might be better to enjoy the indoor private onsen, especially during colder months. But in the mornings, the rooftop private onsen boasting an unobstructed view of the ocean was heavenly. 

A hungry man is an angry man. Trust me, you will never be angry here at Wakamatsu Chita Hot Spring Resort. They served the most beautiful and sumptuous Japanese breakfast ever. Breakfast is served in your room, like private butler style. Each day, you can indicate the time you would like them to bring the food to you. 

Frankly I have nothing but good things to say about this place. My hubby literally didn’t want to go back to the city at the end of our stay :P

Eat the cutest omiyage at Nagoya station

One of the most well known edible omiyage (souvenir) is the Pyorin cake from カフェ　ジャンシアーヌ at Nagoya station. 

Shape as a cute chick, Pyorin represents the kochin chicken by using the kochin eggs in its production.  

You would love the pudding and vanilla mousses shaped like cute baby chicks and covered with a thin layer of sponge cake crumbs. 

Pyorin offers seasonal specials. Since it was autumn and nearing Halloween, they had the pumpkin version too. I even spotted sakura ones in some of the older IG postings by other users. 

Pyorin is sold only at the Cafe Gentiane at Nagoya Station for 320 yen a piece.

Go early, these cuties do get sold out on peak days. 

Get a stunning photoshoot in kimono

When in Japan, wear Kimono. One of my personal mantra. 

While you are in Nagoya, why not get fitted in a traditional Japanese kimono for a stunning photo shoot in a professional studio.

My jaw dropped with I saw the hundreds of kimonos varying in style, period, and colour at Kyoto haregi J STYLE (京都晴れ着 J STYLE).

As the lovely ladies fuss over me to get me dressed up, dolled up to into a convincing Japanese beauty, I headed into the photo studio for my shoot. 

No worries if you are not sure about poses or props. These experienced experts will guide you through everything, from where are hands would be to your facial angle to ensure you look the best. 

Hehehe…. revealing some of my photos :)

Enjoy the traditional Shodo, Japanese calligraphy

A firm believer of experiencing culture of the cities I visit, Shodo – Japanese calligraphy is a way you can discover the beauty of writing and Japanese characters. 

In the intimate class session I had, I was taught how to handle the tools and pick up the techniques and posture to grip my fude (brush) to paint the brushstrokes. 

Step by step, stroke by stroke, we (I) moved on to write “love,” while my hubby picked “samurai”.

I liked how the class is kept intimate so we get alot of personal attention from the teacher and got to take home our own calligraphy as a one-of-a-kind souvenir.

Taste the allure of Nagoya-Meshi

”Nagoya-Meshi”is a term meaning the local cuisine in Nagoya. Known for their harmonious flavours of sweet and salty that is unique to Nagoya, found neither in other cities like Tokyo or Kyoto.

Let’s start off with Ogura toast – that is azuki red beans on thick toast.

Regarded as a food invention conceived in Nagoya, it comprises of buttery toasted bread topped generously with ogura-an (sweet red bean paste). A heavenly combination. 

This toast is well known to be served at coffee houses at Nagoya, and is so popular that you will find many other snacks or omiyage with the ogura toast flavour. 

I visited Kihachi Cafe for their famous Matcha ogura toast. 

Love the addition of delicate whip and the generous azuki beans! so yummy!

Recommended by my Japanese friend, I visited Misokatsu Yabaton – Yabacho Restaurant (みそかつ 矢場とん 矢場町本店) for their Misokatsu(Pork Cutlet with Thick Miso Sauce).

Their pork cutlets, crispy on the outside and tender inside, are all made with pork from southern Kyushu. Their traditional aka-miso sauce, made from natural soybean miso that takes 3 years to ferment!

So many more Nagoya-meshi I wanted to try (not enough time!!), I managed to eat Hitsumabushi (Grilled Eel on Rice) a style of cooking eel that is unique to Nagoya. Visited the over 140 years old Atsuta Horaiken – Main Restaurant (あつた蓬莱軒 本店) for their trademark Hitsumabushi dish. 

Sitting in a tatami room, the tray came with freshly grilled-upon order eel sliced up and served on rice in a wood tub. 

Oh, did you know that there is actually a special procedure to eat and enjoy this dish?

To start, put a quarter portion of the eel rice into your bowl and enjoy as it is. 

Then you have the second serving and this time, add in the condiments including wasabi, seaweed and spring onions to your liking. 

For the third portion, you add the dashi broth over it, like o-chazuke soup with rice. 

For the final portion, enjoy the best of the 3 ways you liked the most!

Experience the magic of food samples

I think many people including myself are always amazed at how realistic and delicious looking the Japanese food sample displays are. 

This round, I got the chance to try making these tasty looking wax and plastic food samples. 

Just a stone’s throw from Nagoya station on the Higashiyama line, I arrived at Chukyo Shokuhin Sample Shop (#中京食品サンプル) and made tempura and ice cream parfait with my hubby. 

We even got a tour after the workshop to see the real master craftsmen at work creating the food samples!

Visit Satsuki and Mei’s House from the movie My Neighbor Totoro. 

Ghibli fans out there, this is something you do not want to miss out. 

Added this in, even though I didn’t manage to make it at the end. 

Located at Morikoko Park (Ai-chikyuhaku Kinen Koen) in the Nagakute-cho region of Aichi, which is only about 40 mins out of Nagoya city, visit the recreation of Satsuki and Mei’s House from the movie My Neighbor Totoro. 

Do note that to enter the house, tickets are required. It is recommended to get the tickets prior at Lawsons (in case they run out when you arrive at the park). 

Do get more details at their English site here. 

******

Many thanks to Expedia.com.sg for the experience!

The post 7 best things about Nagoya appeared first on Little Miss Bento.

The post Booking my Trip to Japan with Expedia.com.sg appeared first on Little Miss Bento.

When we decided to head back to Japan this Autumn, it was quite a last minute decision and I was only left with 2 weeks to plan my trip. Honestly, that was quite scary for me as I usually plan my trips way in advance.

Reason being that with the exception of summer, the other seasons like spring, autumn and winter are popular for travel in Japan, so it could be either really expensive airfare or hotels being booked out way in advance.

So this time, I tried using Expedia.com.sg as the one stop platform to work on my travel plans and bookings. Amazed that I was able to book my entire trip – flights, hotels and even the activities to do, all in a day’s worth of effort. 

This time round, we decided to head to Nagoya and Kanazawa before heading back to Tokyo.

Have been meaning to visit Nagoya but was not able to in my last trip as I couldn’t find a accommodation during spring season. At that time, I haven’t found Expedia yet, and was booking through an online hotel booking site.

Many people travelling between Kansai and Kanto area, Osaka to Tokyo, often skip Nagoya. Did you know that Nagoya (名古屋) is Japan’s fourth populated city, a vibrant hub with a long history since the Edo period.

Plus you can also do a day tour to Shirakawa UNESCO World Heritage Site from Nagoya too – will talk about that later.

So first up, I needed a flight to Nagoya and then back from Tokyo.

Once that is done, it was time to move on to accommodation.

I even compared the hotel stay prices on Expedia with another online hotel booking site (that I used previously) just to make sure that I was indeed getting the better deal.

And true enough, the deal on Expedia was more value for money (for the same hotels) and I saved quite a fair bit of money (yay to more shopping! Haha).

Plus there are additional savings as I booked a flight and hotel package.

Like the booking of flight, you can sort the hotels by preference of property class, prices, location etc.

Once my flight and accommodation were booked, they all appeared neatly in the Itineraries section (under Manage Trips) and also on the Expedia mobile app.

I especially liked how seamless this is.

No need to scramble to search for info, or print things out. Just open the mobile app and voila, everything is there.

Plus they are neatly arranged in order of arrival and date of the check in or activities.

So yes… you might have spotted some fun activities I have included?

So now that everything is done (phew), its time to enjoy myself in Japan.

I’m always making real Japanese food, now I have a chance to make the wax samples instead!

So super excited.

Remember to follow me on my Instagram and blog for the updates on my Japan travel!

The post Planning my Japan trip with Expedia.com.sg appeared first on Little Miss Bento.

Part 2 of my awesome visit to Kobe city in Japan. Read part 1 here.

Aside from the various key areas I visited , I wanted to highlight several other really awesome attractions and experiences I had in Kobe.

二郎農園 Strawberry picking at Niro-Ichigo Farm 

http://www.kobe-kanko-engei.jp/farm.php?id=13

神戸市北区有野町二郎(各地)

I had my first and the most amazing ichigo picking experience at Niro-ichigo Farm.

Each of the strawberries were super sweet and soft, every one we picked was perfect! This is a must visit for those travelling to Kobe.

The season is from mid January to early June. Did you know that their strawberries are so popular locally that they do not even produce enough to export these amazing strawberries outside of Japan? So you have to try them if you visit Kobe.

They take reservations but also accept walk ins. As they could get quite popular, it might be good to make reservations prior to going down.

酒心館 Shu Shin Kan Sake Brewery and Store

http://www.shushinkan.co.jp/ (Japanese)

http://enjoyfukuju.com/english/our_brewery/index.html (English)

Address: 株式会社神戸酒心館　〒658-0044　神戸市東灘区御影塚町1-8-17

Located in Nada district of Kobe,250 years old sake brewery Shu Shin Kan is extremely known for their premium and award winning sake.

The quality of the locally grown Japanese rice and the purity of the water filtered from streams high in the Rokko Mountains; are essential to the brewing of their premium sake.

Using these best rice and water, their sake is produced using traditional handcrafting techniques to create that fruity, umami, and smooth premium flavour.

Their sake has won top accolades and awards both in Japan and internationally. It was even served as celebratory drink for Nobel prize awards.

Recommend to visit their shop after the brewery tour and to get some of their amazing sake. They also have a Japanese fine dining restaurant where you can enjoy washoku (Japanese cuisine) and their sake.

竹中大工道具館 Takenake Carpentry Tools Musuem

http://www.dougukan.jp/ (Japanese)

http://www.dougukan.jp/about_architecture?lang=en (English)

Note: Workshops registrations are by walk-in and are only available on weekends.

Address: 日本, 〒651-0056 兵庫県神戸市中央区熊内町７丁目５−１

Hours: 930am to 430pm (last admission 4pm), Closed on Mondays

I am usually not a museum type of traveller, but Takenaka Carpentry Tools Museum was totally worth the visit. I learnt so much about Japanese traditional architecture and carpentry.

Relocated near Shin-Kobe station since autumn 2014, this musuem is popular with local and international travellers. And it was one of the best museums I have been to.

In there, you can see, feel and touch the art behind the renowned skills of Japanese master craftsmen.
And even make something on your own, like chopsticks, cute plates, or even mini chair. I made my own chopsticks! It was so fun~~

Night View in Kobe

http://www.feel-kobe.jp/_en/night/

Night view in Kobe, is well known amongst the Japanese as the “10 million-dollar sparkling view”. There are various night view spots in the city, including Kobe Port area to Rokko Garden Terrace.

Remember to arm yourself with a camera to get some of these beautiful illumination in photos.

神戸北野異人館店 Starbucks, Kobe Kitano Ijinkan Store

http://www.starbucks.co.jp/store/concept/kobe/index.html

Address: 〒650-0002 兵庫県 神戸市中央区 北野町3-1-31 北野物語館

Hours: 8am to 10pm, open daily

You might ask.. why Starbucks? Not just any Starbucks but this particular one – the Kobe Kitano Ijinkan Store, is located in a beautiful, 19th century old Western style building. 

What is so special is that once you enter the historical building, it feels like travelling back in time.

There are a total of 7 rooms with different decoration and set up, from lounge, to a book reading room and even a dining room. I almost couldn’t decide where to sit.

Although I ended up enjoying the alfresco seats since the weather was wonderful that day.

However, do note that the menu in their Starbucks is the same as the rest in Japan city.

Kobe Sweets and Bread

Isuzu Bakery http://isuzu-bakery.jp/

Patisserie Tooth Tooth http://www.toothtooth.com/patisserie/

Did you know that Kobe is the largest bread consumer in the whole of Japan. Not surprising that there are numerous bakeries around selling Danish bread, Japanese bread, German bread… take your pick!

One of the biggest bakery in Kobe is Isuzu bakery. This bakery has been providing bread for locals for some 50 years. The baker at Isuzu Bakery has also been appointed as a Kobe Meister in the category of bread making.

Because of Kobe’s history and status as a port, the influx of western culture also meant that Kobe is the birthplace of Japanese western sweets (yogashi).

As a result, there are so many top notch pastry cafes and patisseries in Kobe. I wished I had more time to eat more desserts but I did had the luck to try out Tooth Tooth patisserie, a well know pastry cafe. Their maison 15th outlet is housed in a beautiful old building and service is top notch of fine dining standards.

Seems like their high tea is very popular too – it was sold out by the time I arrived at 4pm.

The post Visit Kobe (part 2) appeared first on Little Miss Bento.

When I say Kobe, many non Japanese might only think of the famous Kobe beef. But did you know that this city is way more than just beef, it is a vibrant hub of exciting attractions and good food. One that would please both solo travellers, couples and families too.

Thanks to the invite by Kobe City, I was able to experience a memorable visit travelling to Kobe.

Kobe, spans from their well known waterfront port area to shopping streets and chic mountain area. Best part if that the fun never ends even when the sun sets. The night in Kobe is just as exciting as the day.

Getting to Kobe?

Being the 6th largest city in the whole of Japan, Kobe like the other major cities is well connected. Kobe City can be accessed easily from airports such as Osaka’s Kansai Airport or Kobe Airport, with major trains like shinkansen, JR and buses running in the city too.

Plan your access via Kobe’s official tourism site here http://www.feel-kobe.jp/_en/

There are some many areas to explore in Kobe, I wished I can cover more during this trip. Here are some of the highlights of my visit.

Harborland and Meriken Park Area

This area is not to be missed for Kobe’s signature waterfront scenery, offering different views in the day and at night.

The Kobe Port Tower at 108 meter, is actually the first lattice tower in the world!

The Meriken Park which is close to the Meriken Peir was first opened as a gateway to shipment cargoes from all over the world in the 19th century.

After all the romantic sightseeing, head over to Kobe Harbourland Umie for some shopping. A vast shopping mall with numerous shopping and dining options. I particularly loved the character store street!

If you are like me and love cute goods, then you must not also miss out the Anpanman Musuem just next to Harbourland. The musuem also has a special level with store and eateries selling all Anpanman goods!

Motomachi and Nankinmachi (Chinatown)

One of the most famous major Chinatowns in Japan, you will find over 100 Chinese restaurants and other stores. I even spotted some really cute steam buns – just look at that chick.

Need a place to rest? Hop over to the Owl Cafe in Kobe. One of the few Owl animal cafe in Japan. It was such an amazing experience getting up and close with the owls. They were so gentle and loved it when gently stroke on the head.

The store assistants will instruct you what you can or cannot do. For instance no flash light from the cameras as it would scare these sweet little creatures.

Sannomiya 

Shopaholics alert! A must go for the best fashion, beauty and great dining stores.

One of the most lively areas in Kobe, with major train stations in the area, this is also the place where you can visit your favourite high end fashion stores, multi stories tall Tokyu Hands and Loft, SOGO, Daimaru and even a 24hrs supermarket.

Bye bye my wallet :P

A vibrant city that has almost everything for the different travellers coming to Kobe.

The post Visit Kobe appeared first on Little Miss Bento.

What is Kobe Selection? Kobe Selection is an annual listing of the top selections from the best Kobe sweets, food, fashion, beauty and goods

This year, in 2016 is Kobe Selection 9. See their official website here: http://www.kobe-selection.jp/

I had the privilege to visit some of the big names, witness behind-the-scenes and  taste/try their products; it was way too awesome.

Here are my favourite picks (in no order of preference)

=FOOD=

Frantz (pudding)

http://www.frantz.jp

Kobe is famous for its sweets and pudding is probably consider one of their signature.

Frantz from Kobe does some of the best renditions of this sweet dessert with an incredible melt in the mouth texture topped with fresh delicate whip.

These pudding are so fresh that you have to enjoy these sweets while you are there as they are not allowed on international flights. Good news is that Frantz have a cafe with seating at Mosaic, HarborLand which is perfect for enjoying their pudding.

Pudding comes in variety of flavours including original, sweet potato, houjicha, as well as seasonal limited time offerings like berry sweets collection for their latest Spring collection.

For omiyage, they are also well known for several items including their chocolate and strawberry truffle sweets. Just look at these beautiful strawberry truffles.

A ingenious combination of tangy fresh strawberries that are freeze dried and encased in high quality white chocolate. Even for a non white chocolate fan, these won my heart. And they sure make great gifts. 

Kobe Baikado (Wafer fruits biscuits)

http://www-kobe-baikado.com

The only maker in Japan of these handmade wafer fruits biscuits. These handmade baked goods require so much precision and selection of ingredients, it is a no wonder only Kobe Baikado is able to produce these must buy omiyage snacks.

All my friends loved the wafer biscuits. I personally love the taste of the fresh fruits with the wafer, they are perfect with a cup of tea or coffee.

If you are not fruit fan, do not worry – they also have chocolate and matcha wafer bisuits with caramel fillings. Unlike most caramel biscuits, these are perfect with that ending bitter notes of the burnt sugar, very suited for adults.

The best place to buy these in Kobe is at basement of SOGO mall.

Kobe Ikanago

http://www.rakuten.co.jp/kobeshi-gyokyo

These little fishes are a nickname – Kobe fish. Yes, they are symbolic of Kobe.

Best caught in the waters of Kobe in March and April, these little fishes are cooked in Japanese soy sauce, soft brown sugar and ginger creating that intense flavour that is almost addictive.

I had the pleasure to join them to view the fishing experience and factory to see how these fishes are freshly prepared and packed for sale. It was so delicious I bought a box home (wished I could bring more back!).

I can just eat this with plain Japanese rice or porridge. It is that good.

Kobe SMC ( Tea)

http://smc-shop.net

Well known as a remedy for skin and good for health, these rose tea are not only pretty in colour, they taste good too.

Aromatic floral notes evident in the tea and a sweet ending makes this a great tea for afternoon tea or pairing with desserts.

=FASHION=

Wataya (Indigo dye products)

http://e-wataya.jp

Store address: 〒670-0034 姫路市船丘町296番地

TEL.079-294-5555 Hours: 10am to 7pm (Closed on Tuesdays).

In a world where everything (almost) is made synthetically or mass produced, this 130 years old maker WATAYA in Kobe still uses all natural products and traditional methods in their textile goods.

Once you enter their store, you will see a sea of products in a beautiful indigo blue hue. Yes, their products are dyed using natural indigo dye extracted from plants.

All natural products also means that their goods are safe for children and baby too.

Their store is near Himeiji castle, which makes this a great shopping stop after sightseeing.

Chocolatan Kobe (Chocolate design fashion products)

http://chocolatan.co.jp

When i posted this online, this garnered quite a lot of attention. Not surprising since this is indeed uniquely Chocolatatan Kobe. Chocolate design leather goods ranging from card holders, handphone casing, to bags and even ties.

Yes, this series is designed with both male and female users in mind.

I personally love white, so I picked the white handphone casing. Which ‘chocolate’ would you like?

Using a special technique, Chocolatan Kobe is able to create the special groove design of the chocolate bar with leather. Pretty impressive!

Also retailing at 神戸百貨店 at Mosaic, HarborLand.

=BEAUTY=

Mutenka Sekken (Natural soap and beauty products)

http://mutenka-sekken.com

It is really hard to find all natural products these days and the soap products from Mutenka Sekken stands out from the rest by insisting on using only pure natural ingredients in their products.

Making these suitable for sensitive and allergic skin and anyone who do not like chemicals and added artificial ingredients in their beauty products.

Some of the ingredients in their soap include almond oil, cocoa butter, honey, rosehip, vanilla oil etc.

Their newest series include a four seasons soap – Spring, Summer, Autum and Winter.

Each of these addictive free soap with elements suited for the season’s weather.

Also retailing at 神戸百貨店 at Mosaic, HarborLand.

The post Kobe Selection 9 appeared first on Little Miss Bento.

More than 10 Character Cafes in Tokyo, Japan to visit! *updated 21 Dec 2015

Featuring some of the cutest food served in Japan.

If you love kawaii food like me, you must take the opportunity to visit these super cute and fun character cafes in Tokyo, Japan.

After lots of eating and travelling, I have finally compiled this list of character cafes to visit in Japan. Some of these are permanent stores (yay!!), short term cafes, or limited time/pop up  cafes which I have also indicated.

I have visited some 11 character cafes this time, the last two (no. 12 and 13) I didn’t manage to catch them cause one was opened on the day I was leaving and the other was located a little far off at Odaiba. Save for next trip!

Stay tuned for my next upcoming post, Character Cafes in Osaka and Kyoto.

Have fun!

1. Character Foodcourt @ Sanrio Puroland

(Permanent *menu may change seasonally)

Address: Japan, 〒206-0033 Tokyo, Tama, 落合1丁目31番地

Website (English) Website (Japanese)

Nearest train station: 5mins walk from Tama Center Station on Keio Line (http://en.puroland.jp/access_en/)

One of the best places to visit (and for Sanrio fans) for cute character food is at Sanrio Puroland. Plus not only can you eat cute food, you can go do loads of shopping at the stores as well as meet the Sanrio mascot characters, watch their parade shows etc.

The menu at their Character Food Court (located at Level 1) is also very extensive, unless you bring a huge group, or seriously can eat a lot, it is quite impossible to try out all the cute food.

I ordered their My Melody Curry, Cinamonroll Curry, Gudetama Omu Curry Rice, My Melody Eclair and My Melody Daifuku.

Out all the food, I enjoyed the Gudetama Omu Curry Rice the most. The egg is cooked fresh, fluffy and delicious.

The other two curries felt a little salty and not enough ingredients (just rice and gravy) but nonetheless, who can fault the experience of eating cute food. haha.

The good thing is that the Character Food Court is spacious with ample seating. Water dispenser is also available if you choose not to order their drinks.

Tip:

1. Buy tickets for Sanrio Puroland before heading to Japan at authorised travel agencies such as JTB. This makes it much easier for you and enjoy concession on the ticket price. 
2. Go get your food just before 12 noon to miss the lunch crowd, as queues might form (but seating are still available).
3. If you order their bento boxes or pudding cup desserts, you can get to take home the bento box or the ceramic cups FOC!

My Melody Dream Cafe @ Sanrio Puroland

(limited time)

While you are at Sanrio Puroland, you should also quickly check out this limited time My Melody Dream Cafe on level 2.

The prettiest cutest desserts and sweets featuring My Melody and Kiki and Lala from Little Twin Stars.

2. Pompompurin Cafe at Yokohama

(Permanent)

Address: 横浜市西区南幸2-1-5 YOKOHAMA SOTETSU SQUARE

Opening hours: 10am to 9pm (last order 830pm)

Website (Japanese)

Directions: 5 mins walk from Yokohama (JR), or 2 mins walk from Yokohama (Sotetsu Line)

For those who follow my blog, you would know that I have visited the Pompompurin cafe at Harajuku last year and faced cray queues.

The good news is that both the queues for their Yokohama and Harajuku branches seemed to have subsided. Just maybe try to avoid peak days like Friday or Saturdays.

I went on a weekday so it was a breeze to get a seat in the restaurant.

Their Yokohama store has a bigger wow factor for the entire store front and store interior deco, as compared to their Shibuya restaurant. They even have a section of ‘beds’ where you are can sit/lie down.

The menu at the Pompompurin Cafe at Yokohama is slightly different from their Harajuku store, with items exclusive to this store.

And of course, those exclusive items were the ones I ordered when I went.

I had their Dim Sum set as well as the French Toast dessert. The steamed buns were surprisely yummy with soft bun encasing juicy minced meat in the large Pompompurin and black sesame filling for the Muffin character bun (Muffin  is a friend of Pompompurin).

The noodles were nothing to shout about, but at least they were served hot :)

I also tried their french toast which was pretty okay except that they really ought to improve the vanilla ice cream.

They also have a small section that retails Pompompurin items as well as items exclusive to the store.

Tip: If you would like their limited edition pompompurin ceramic cup, select items on their menu (such as the one below) that is marked with the cup, you will get one clean one to take home FOC after the meal! 

3. Pompompurin Cafe at Harajuku

(Permanent)

Address: 東京都渋谷区神宮前1-7-1 CUTE CUBE HARAJUKU 3階

Opening Hours: 11am to 9pm (last order for food is at 8pm)

Directions: 3 mins from Harajuku (JR), 7 mins walk from Mejijingumae

Website (Japanese)

Read my earlier blog post on this cafe and see more photos here.

Pretty similar to Yokohama, except smaller and less menu items. This is great if you prefer to stay in Shibuya/Harajuku area and not venture out to Yokohama.

They also have a small section that retails Pompompurin items as well.

Tip: If you would like their limited edition pompompurin ceramic cup, select items on their menu (such as the one above) that is marked with the cup, you will get one clean one to take home FOC after the meal!

4. Snoopy Cafe @ Meguro

(permanent) * reservations accepted via website

Address: 〒153-0042 東京都目黒区青葉台2-16-7
Opening hours: 10:00 to 22:00
Tel: 03-6452-5882

Website/Reservations (Japanese)

Facebook Page 

Naturally I first learnt of the opening of this permanent Snoopy Cafe in October 2015, I was so excited.

What awaits is a character quite unlike the others. A beautiful white cafe space, located in an equally tranquil neighbourhood of Meguro and just next to Meguro river. Just imagine during the cherry blossom season!

This Snoopy Cafe has lots of natural lighting in the cafe, a joy to take photos of food and a lovely place to relax.

Reservations remain popular at this 2 month old cafe. To avoid disappointment, I would suggest making reservations instead of walking in. On the day of my visit, I saw several being turned away as the cafe was fully booked and that was despite it being a weekday morning.

The reservations option is also awesome for those who are travelling and want to make sure that they get a space to dine in at this Peanuts Cafe.

Menu wise, instead of a strong focus on cutesy kawaii food, the Snoopy Cafe seems to focus more on actual cafe food from salads to pasta. The cutest character item on the menu are these mini sliders.

The in house peanut butter was the bomb though. I was literally licking the jar :P

They also have quite a wide range of retail goods, I got the Snoopy cotton sling bag.

Tips:

1. Make reservations!
2. You can also order the cute Snoopy bread buns as extra side top tup with other main course orders. 

5. Peter Rabbit Garden Cafe @ Jiyugaoka

ピーターラビットガーデンカフェ自由が丘本店

 (permanent) *Reservations accepted

住所：〒〒152-0035 Tokyo, Meguro, 自由が丘1丁目25-20 

Opening hours: 11am to 10pm  (daily)
Tel/Reservations: 03-3725-4118

Website (Japanese) 

Nearest train station: less than 5 minutes walk from Jiyugaoka station

I stumbled upon this Cafe accidentally when shopping tat Jiyugaoka area.

Jiyugaoka, just 10 minutes away from Shibuya is a stylish and chic neighboughood at the southern part of Meguro. I highly recommend a visit here especially if you love a laid back neighbourhood with lots of cafes, zakka stores and stylish shops.

I spent quite a significant part of my time in Japan in this lovely neighbourhood.

While working and shopping for zakka items, I noticed a cafe with a beautifully decked up alfresco garden setting and realised that it was a Peter Rabbit Garden Cafe.

Lighting was rather poor as day was short during winter, so please pardon me for the less than ideal photos taken. I couldn’t take the garden as it as too dim and I was not equipped with my camera. 

I ordered their cheese omelette salad set that came with their in house cheese filled bread buns (yummy!) . Presentation was 100% effort, there was even dry ice with the salad when they first served me the plate. Pretty magical I must say.

They also retail some small pastries and their bread buns for takeaway. I say skip the hard dry scones and go for their cheese bread buns instead.

Like most character cafe, there are some some Peter Rabbit merchandise on sale here to satisfy the shopping urges! :)

I would imagine during the day, this cafe with the natural lighting will be beautiful and great for photos!

6. Nicolas House @ Omotensando

ニコラハウス

(permanent)

Address:東京都渋谷区神宮前4-26-5 神宮前426ビル 1F・2F

Opening hours: 11am to 8pm (Mon – Fri, Sun) 10am to 8pm (Sat)

Website (Japanese)

Directions: 3 mins walk from Mejijingumae (exit 5) , OR 7 minutes of Harajuku (JR) station, or 10mins walk from Omotensando station on Ginza line

This cafe is for all bunny and miffy lovers. A cafe inspired by Miffy, expect a menu of both pastries and savoury items featuring bunnies.

When I was ushered to the shop, I was handed a bunny headpiece which I could wear while dining. Don’t be afraid, everyone does that here. Even guys!

The waitress shared with me that upon repeat visits, you can stamps on the member card and get ‘promoted’ in member status, giving you the chance to wear different type of bunny headpieces. haha.

I ordered a savory item for lunch, which was their Adult lunch set. You can choose from a variety of sides, mine was salmon.

Food wise, granted I only ordered one item, was sadly quite disappointing in taste. Salmon was overcooked and pies were really dry and cold.

As I didn’t really feel like eating choux that day, but saw that most diners came in for their pastries and desserts. So perhaps that could have been a better choice instead.

7. Gudetama Cafe Gudetama and Kirimi chan Cafe@ Skytree, Solamachi (Updated)

(Limited time: March 2015 to Nov 2015) 21 Dec 2015 to 14 Feb 2016)

The Gudetama Cafe was located on the 4th floor of the West Yard of the Skytree.

Website (Japanese)

This is for all Gudetama fans (like me)!

While this was just a small diner/takeout store located at Solamchi, the shopping zone of Skytree. It was enough to get me totally excited.

The menu changes seasonally so the one that I tried was different from what they offered when they first opened. The previous menu was cuter though. See pictures below.

launch menu. Source: http://jpninfo.com/12457

This was the new menu when I went.

Skip the sad look and tasteless Oyakodon and go for the buns instead.

The pork bun (nikuman) and curry steam bun not only looked cute, tasted pretty decent too. And nice to have some warm food when the weather is cool.

Hope they will bring back this pop up cafe or introduce more Gudetama cafe to Tokyo soon (when I am there :P).

The good news is that Sanrio has just announced that the cafe is coming back this December and will be extended to Feb 2016. Best part is that not only will you find Gudetama food, there will be Kirimi chan too. 

Check out their new menu!

8.　Snoopy X Tower Records Cafe Shibuya

(Limited time: 17 Nov 2015 to 31 Dec 2015)

Tower Records Website (Japanese) Snoopy Website (Japanese) 

Address: TOWER RECORDS CAFE（タワーレコード渋谷店2F）〒150-0041東京都渋谷区神南1-22-14

Opening hours: 10am to 1130pm

Tel：03-3496-3672

Directions: about 3 mins walk from Shibuya (JR) station

Lucky stars upon me, I was shopping in Tower Records to buy time as I was waiting for another store next door to open and realised that there was a limited time Snoopy x Tower Records Cafe on Level 2!

A spacious setting with a cute menu to match. The whole place was also nicely decked with with Snoopy plush toys and comics that one can browse and read.

The long operating hours of the Tower Records cafe (rare in Japan) also mean that this could be the place to head to after a day or activities or before.

I ordered the meatball Snoopy lunch with a Snoopy hot chocolate. Food was pretty decent and service was great.

Go visit if you are in Shibuya or are a Snoopy fan. Missed out the limited time period? Check out the permanent Snoopy Cafe (See No. 4 above).

9. My Little Pony X Sunday Jam Cafe

(Limited time 13 Oct to 29 Nov 2015)

Address: Tokyo, Shibuya, Jingu-mae 4-28-28, Lucessimo Building 2F

Website (Japanese)

This is touted as the world’s first My Little Pony Cafe is actually a collaboration between My Little Pony with Sunday Jam restaurant and Japan Racing Association.

While I am not a major My Little Pony fan now, I loved the cartoons when I was a child. But of course, the cartoon series and even the looks of My Little Pony have changed much over the years.

I realised that they took reservations but lucky me, it was a weekday morning and I could easily get a seat.

I ordered the Sandwich set, wished I have more space to stomach the pancakes though. As I only read online later that the restaurant is supposedly famous for pancakes. haha.

The sandwich came with a (sort of) My Little Pony print, fries, vegetables and a pink looking liquid – which was actually potato soup. The pink potato soup was actually really yummy. haha

Since I didn’t eat the pancakes, here is a picture from Twitter user @mimori_suzuko on the cute magical looking pancakes.

10. Kapibarasan 10th anniversary cafe

(Limited time: 3 Nov to 25 Dec 2015)

Address：「Sign 外苑前」〒107-0061  東京都港区北青山2-7-18 山崎ビル1・2F
Cafe opening hours: 11am to 9pm (last order 8pm)
Website (Japanese)

Directions: Just next to Gaienmae station, or 8 mins walk from Omotensando station

Do you know Kapibarasan character?

I came here for desserts only, so I ordered the chocolate pie and a hot tea. The pie and cream tasted really artificial (how sad). Would not recommend this item on their menu.

The tea and little Kapibarasan snack was okay though.

I saw in their menu that they also had this really kawaii drink but did not think I could stomach candy floss sugar high that day. haha.

Their new Xmas menu actually also looks so much better and more promising.

The fun part about this pop up store is that it is quite comprehensive, apart from the 2 storeys cafe, it also has a bar as well as a workshop area (at level 5) where you can make our own Kapibarasan key chains etc.

11. Ojipan Cafe at Harajuku

(Limited time till 10 July to 31 Dec 2015)

Address: 〒150-0001 東京都渋谷区神宮前1丁目7番1号 CUTE CUBE HARAJUKU 3F
Tel: 03-3408-0050
Opening hours: 11 am to 9 pm (last order 8.30pm)

Website (Japanese)

Directions: 4 mins walk from Harajuku (JR) or 5 mins walk from Mejijingumae station. 

I was attracted to Ojipan Cafe when I spotted their cute menu outside the Harakjuku store.

Plus I got to learn about this new character Ojipan. This cafe is actually a collaboration between the character Ojipan and Pomu no Ki, a Omlette Rice (omuraisu) chain store.

The menu though limited was filled with Ojipan and Omurainu characters.

And kudos to the deco of the cafe with lots of Ojipan goods.

I chose the spaghetti set cause I wanted the Ojipan panda but since this is supposed to be a Omurice store, the omurice might taste better I think.

12. Pop Up at THE GUEST cafe＆diner of Shibuya PARCO

Cinnamonroll Cafe　（シナモロールカフェ）- Limited time: 4 Dec 2015 to 25 Jan 2016

THE GUEST cafe＆diner, 渋谷パルコ　パート１・７Ｆ

Opening hours: 11am to 1030pm (Last order for food is at 10pm)

Tel: 03-3477-5773

Twitter
Facebook
Instagram

Website (Japanese)

THE GUEST cafe & diner is the place to keep your eyes peeled. There has been a string of character pop up cafes from Little Twin Stars to the current Cinnamoroll cafe.

Sadly I missed out both as I was not back in Japan when they happened. But if you are travelling to Japan anytime soon, do check this this super cute Cinnamoroll Cafe.

Just look at the menu (swoons)

13. Cafe de Miki with Hello Kitty

(Permanent)

Address: 〒135-0064 東京都江東区青海1-1-10 ダイバーシティ東京プラザ4F
Opening hours: 10am to 9pm (last order 8pm) 　
Tel:　03-6426-0516

Website (Japanese)

I didn’t manage to go to this Cafe de Miki with Hello Kitty this trip. Probably will do that in my next visit back to Japan.

Image source: Sanrio Japan http://www.sanrio.co.jp/news/cafe-de-miki-kitty-201411/

The post Over 10 Character Cafes in Japan (Tokyo) to visit appeared first on Little Miss Bento.

Lolita Photo Shoot in Tokyo!

My very first experience with Lolita fashion in Tokyo.  I am very sure none of you have seen me in this Lolita look!

Neither have I  :P I almost couldn’t recognise myself.

This was all for the fun of the experience~a Lolita photoshoot in Tokyo at Maison De Julietta. They have an English website~ perfect for visitors and tourists.

Maison De Julietta store is located at LAFORET mall which is situated in Omotesando. Very convenient and close to Meijijingumae/Harajuku area too.

Do make a reservation with them for your photoshoot if you can. Although they do accept walk-ins if there are free slots.

For this Lolita shoot, they provided everything from the clothes, shoes to the make up and hair.

The basic shoot package includes the hair, makeup and dressing up and the photography. You will get a credit of 3000yen which you will use to download the images of the photoshoot about 10 days after via their online website.

The inner wear, eyelashes and wig comes at additional cost of 200yen to 1500yen.

I took the complete package and paid about 13,000yen, which works out to be SGD$150.

Check out the whole row of Lolita fashion items!

After arriving at the studio, I picked out my outfit with the help of the store assistant and was ushered to the dressing room where the make up artist did the make up and put on the wig for me.

You can choose the wig you fancy; I picked something to match my outfit and also slightly different from my own hair – the bangs!

After completing the dress up and make up, I was ushered to the studio for the Lolita photoshoot.

The backdrop is a huge storybook, which was really cute. 

I was initially so worried about posing, but the photographer was obviously very experienced and taught me how to pose. HAHA.

There are also fun props like soft toys, book, chairs etc~

This is one of the photos from the shoot. I love that Alice in Wonderful book I was holding!

This is probably one of those once-in-a-lifetime type of fun activity. I appreciate the fact that the store allowed me to take selfie and also helped me take photos with my phone and camera (not in the studio though).

If you are travelling to Tokyo, Japan, you can try this out. Its pretty fun!

Blog post disclaimer: This is not a sponsored post. I paid for all the purchases needed for the experience and all views expressed are my own.

Maison De Julietta

Opening Hours: 11am to 9pm (last appointment is 730pm)

Email/Reservations : maison-de-julietta@five-i.co.jp

Tel: 03-6434-5464

Address: LAFORET B1.5F 1-11-6, Jingu-mae, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo-city, 150-0001

Follow my food art and bento creations on my Facebook my page here or my Instagram here.

More information about my bento cookbook title ‘Kawaii Bento’  here. 

キャラ弁ランキング – ブログのランキングに参加中。よろしければクリックしてくださいね♪　ありがとう

Please also support my blog ranking! Please just click the button below as the clicks will go towards the ranking! Thank you so much

↓　↓　↓　↓　↓　↓　↓  ↓  ↓

 

The post Lolita Photo Shoot in Tokyo appeared first on Little Miss Bento.

Cuteness to the max! Check out these kawaii Totoro Cream Puffs sold by Shirohige’s Cream Puff Shop in Tokyo!

These Totoro Cream Puffs are so super delicious!!

I will definitely go back to have them again, and they are so irresistably cute! If you are visiting Japan, you do not want to miss out this delicious sweets!

Located within walking distance of about 3mins from Setagaya-Daita train station on the Odakyu line, this store is not difficult to find. I mark it out on Google Map here. You can use Hyperdia to plan your trip, just search and add in your start location and ending station (Setagaya Daita) and it will plan the different possible routes for you.

Nestled within a sweet looking cottage like house, Shirohige’s Cream Puff Shop has a take-away counter on level 1 and some alfresco sitting.If you are travelling during the cooler months, it will be really nice to enjoy the cool breeze outdoors too.

On level 2, it belongs to a cafe space named Toro Cafe where lovely cafe food is served. The cafe also allows diners to take orders and eat the Totoro Cream Puffs from Shirohige’s Cream Puff Shop.

Upon entering the store, you will see cute Totoro decorations and displays. Even the toilet has a Totoro plush toy!

Check out the super cute Totoro Cream Puffs lining up in the takeaway counter. They offer seasonal flavours, so do check out what they have when you visit. Some of the mainstays include the Custard and Chocolate flavours etc.

If you have no time to dine in the store, you can buy some and bring back to the hotel or along with you. The store provides ice packs for your journey.

The Totoro Cream Puffs are really cute, see the different ‘headgears’? They represent the different flavours!

I also took a sneak peak into the kitchen (naughty me). They use egg trays to hold the puffs – how creative and smart!

I decided to dine at the cafe and chose to be seated upstairs. Take the flight of stairs and head up. There will be staff to take your orders (including the Cream Puffs) upstairs.

Since it was meant to be brunch and I was feeling greedy :P haha I ordered a salad (small size) and two Totoro Cream Puffs, the original custard and the seasonal limited edition Marron (Japanese chestnut) flavours.

The salad came first, and was pretty good, very fresh and light Japanese wafu dressing.

But the most important part of my meal was the Totoro Cream Puffs.

Here we have the Totoro Cream Puff (Original) Custard flavour on the right and the Totoro Cream Puff Marron flavour on the left.

The cream puffs were nicely chilled and the exterior was crisp with generous amounts of fillings inside.

And look at those vanilla beans specks!!! I love to see that in sweets ;D The custard was so creamy and delicious.

But what impressed me the most, was actually the Marron (chestnut) flavour. While the colour is plae and looked so similar to the Custard flavour, wow, that chestnut flavour really popped! I also love the chestnut bits in the cream.

Highly recommend both of them and definitely the Totoro Cream Puff Marron flavour!

I also did buy the Chocolate Cream flavour as take away but the chocolate flavour was mild. I prefer the Custard and Marron flavours.

So yes, if you are travelling to Tokyo, I highly recomend you find some time to check out Shirohige Cream Puff Shop and enjoy the delicious Totoro Cream Puffs!

Blog post disclaimer: This is not a sponsored post. I paid for the meal at Shirohige Cream Puff Shop and all views expressed are my own. 

Shirohige’s Cream Puff Shop

Address: Tokyo Prefecture, Setagaya Shirota 5-3-1 (東京都世田谷区代田５−３−１)

Tel: 03-5787-6221

Website

Opening hours: 10am to 7pm

Closed on Tuesdays. If a public holiday falls on a Tuesday, the store will remain open on the holiday but will close next day on Wednesday.

Follow my food art and bento creations on my Facebook my page here or my Instagram here.

More information about my bento cookbook title ‘Kawaii Bento’  here. 

The post Shirohige’s Totoro Cream Puff appeared first on Little Miss Bento.