The trip will take you through multiple prefectures that surround the greater Tokyo area, Kanagawa, Shizuoka, Saitama, as well as Miyagi in the Tohoku region. We will be exploring Japan’s pop culture scene via Tokyo and the above mentioned prefectures, getting the chance see how Japan’s pop culture interacts and supports local communities outside of metropolitan Tokyo. We will also be visiting areas in the countryside that have inspired Japan’s unique pop culture.
Tokyo is the capital of Japan and one of the most populous metropolitan areas in the world. Tokyo is a dynamic, world-leading city that attracts people from around the world.
In addition, by using public transportation such as the Shinkansen bullet train, express trains, and highway buses, visitors can enjoy a more enjoyable one-day tour of tourist attractions throughout Japan, starting in Tokyo.
8:30am: SHINJUKU STATION
Oedo Line: Shinjuku → Shiodome
Yurikamome line: Shiodome → Daiba
9:30am: EGGS 'N THINGS
Morning at a café-restaurant famous for its Hawaiian Pancakes.
11:00am: TOKYO TRICK ART MUSEUM
The Tokyo Trick Art Museum in Odaiba, Tokyo, offers interactive 3D paintings and optical illusions, allowing visitors to pose creatively with the exhibits. Located in Decks Tokyo Beach, it features themed area like Edo-period Japan and fantasy worlds. Easily accessible by public transport, the museum encourages interaction with the art, making it ideal for unique photo opportunities.
1:00pm: KATSUKICHI
Rinkai Line / Saikyo Line (Through train): Tokyo Teleport → Shibuya
Enjoy our special pork cutlet, made with pork that is purchased from a number of different sources and brands, and rigorously checked by our chefs every morning.
3:00pm: SAMURAI ARMOR PHOTO STUDIO
The Shibuya Samurai Armor Photo Studio in Tokyo's Shibuya district offers participants the chance to wear authentic samurai armor and have professional photos taken, complete with thematic props and backdrops. This immersive experience includes a brief introduction to
samurai history and culture, enhancing the understanding of the attire's significance.
Located in a bustling area known for its vibrant atmosphere, the photo shoot provides a unique and memorable way to capture the essence of Japan's feudal warrior class.
8:30am: TOKYO STATION
Shinkansen: Tokyo → Sendai
Senseki Line: Sendai → Tagajo
11:00am: POKEMON LOCAL ACTS
The Pokémon Local Acts initiative in Japan promotes regional tourism by featuring Pokémon ambassadors unique to each prefecture. These events include the installation of Pokémon-themed manhole covers, known as Poké Lids, which highlight local charms and attractions. Additionally, special events and pop-up exhibits often take place, showcasing Pokémon-themed activities and limited-edition merchandise. This initiative not only brings attention to lesser-known areas but also integrates Pokémon into local culture and festivities. The featured Pokémon for Miyagi Prefecture is Lapras.
2:00pm: MATSUSHIMA ISLAND
Senseki Line: Tagajo → Matsushima Kaigan
Matsushima Island, located in Miyagi Prefecture, is renowned for its stunning natural beauty and is considered one of Japan's Three Scenic Views. The area consists of over 260 small islands covered in pine trees, creating picturesque landscapes that can be enjoyed via boat tours or from various observation points on the mainland. Key attractions include Zuiganji Temple, a historic Zen temple, and Godaido Hall, a small temple offering panoramic views of the bay. Matsushima also offers delicious local cuisine, particularly fresh seafood and oysters.
5:00pm: ZUNDA MOCHI MAKING EXPERIENCE
Senseki Line: Matsushima Kaigan → Sendai
We will have a hands-on experience making "Zunda Mochi," a traditional confectionery hailing from Miyagi Prefecture. This unique treat features sweet, mashed edamame (young soybeans) generously coating soft and chewy mochi rice cakes. Unlike the typical savory preparation of edamame seasoned with salt, Zunda Mochi offers a delightful contrast with its delicate sweetness and vibrant green color. By making Zunda Mochi together, we'll discover a whole new dimension to this humble bean and appreciate its versatility in Japanese cuisine.
6:00pm: SENDAI CITY
Sendai, a vibrant city in Japan's Tohoku region known as the "City of Trees", boasts a unique blend of history and nature. Founded by samurai lord Date Masamune, it's known for iconic landmarks like Sendai Castle and Zuihoden Mausoleum. The city's lush greenery, lively Tanabata Festival, and delectable culinary scene, featuring gyutan and fresh seafood, offer a captivating experience for visitors. Sendai also serves as a gateway to nearby natural wonders like Matsushima Bay and rejuvenating hot springs.
8:00pm: SENDAI STATION
Shinkansen: Sendai → Tokyo
8:30am: SHINJUKU STATION
Shonan-Shinjuku Line to Keikyu Line: Shinjuku → Yokohama → Yokosuka Chuo
Taxi: Yokosuka Chuo → Yokosuka Port Market
(walking possible)
11:00am: YOKOSUKA PORT MARKET
The market’s new “Miura Peninsula Food Experience” concept reflects a focus on fresh ingredients from the Miura Peninsula and helps connect visitors with the region through food.
In addition to fresh seafood and mountain products, local specialty stores and sweets stores, a wide variety of Yokosuka souvenirs and other stores are gathered here.
12:30pm: MIKASA TERMINAL
Ferry: Mikasa Terminal → Sarushima
1:00pm: SARUSHIMA ISLAND
Sarushima, located in Kanagawa Prefecture, does not have any monkeys. The name "Sarushima" translates to "Monkey Island" in English, but the origin of this name is actually based on a legend. According to the legend, a Buddhist priest was caught in a storm and sought refuge on the island. A white monkey appeared and guided him to safety, leading to the island being named after this mystical helper. Despite its name, the island is known more for its historical military fortifications and natural beauty rather than any actual monkey population.
3:00pm: DOBUITA STREET
Ferry: Sarushima → Mikasa Terminal
Taxi: Mikasa Terminal → Dobuita Street
Yokosuka's famous shopping street which has uniquely evolved through the absorption and fusion of U.S. and Japanese culture.
You can enjoy a variety of contrasts on this street which has become a gathering place for deep culture.
From souvenir shops selling military goods and souvenir Japanese Sukajan jackets to American-style bars,this street has a little something for everyone.
5:45pm: RAMEN FOOD HALL
Keikyu Line to Minatomirai Line: Shioiri → Yokohama → Minatomirai
Ramen which became representative of Japanese gourmet now. We heap up foods hall where ocean bar that assortment of goods does various drink menus of universal accumulation and the Japan's first appearance that 4 stores with various individuality met to all members based on the name of JAPAN RAMEN FOOD HALL has 250 seats.
7:00pm: YOKOHAMA FACTORY NIGHT CRUISE
The coastal area from Yokohama to Kawasaki to Tokyo is called the "Keihin Industrial Zone," where numerous large factories are lined up. Power plants, refineries, and petrochemical complexes operate around the clock, and the sight of the factories from the dark sea at night creates a sci-fi-like atmosphere.
8:45am: SHINAGAWA STATION
Shinkansen: Shinagawa → Ito
Bus: Ito → Shaboten Park
12:00pm: OMURO LUNCHEONETTE
Rice Bowls and Udon with local produce.
1:30pm: OMUROYAMA
Omuro is a cinder cone volcano located on the Izu Peninsula in Shizuoka Prefecture. It offers a 360-degree panoramic view of the Pacific Ocean, the Amagi Mountains, and on clear days, Mt. At the summit, there is a boardwalk that circles the crater rim, and there is an archery range at the bottom of the crater.
Nearby are the Izu Shaboten Zoo and the hiking trails of Izu Kogen.
6:00pm: KAMATSURU
Bus: Shaboten Park → Ito
Ito Line: Ito → Atami
Taxi: Atami → Kamatsuru
A Japanese restaurant where you can casually enjoy fresh seafood.
You can also choose dried fish from the Kamatsuru main store and have it grilled in the restaurant.
8:30pm: ATAMI STATION
Taxi: Kamatsuru → Atami
Shinkansen: Atami → Shinagawa
Yamanote Line: Shinagawa → Shinjuku
9:00am: SHINJUKU STATION
Chuo Line to Musashino Line: Shinjuku → Nishi Kokubunji → Higashi Tokorozawa
10:00am: KADOKAWA CULTURE MUSEUM
Located in Musashino, where humans and nature have long been living in harmony, Kadokawa Culture Museum (KCM) is a complex of cultural facilities built on a completely new concept.
1:00pm: TOKOROZAWA SAKURA TOWN
Tokorozawa Sakura Town is the new pop-culture entertainment complex of Japan, featuring grand architecture by world renowned architect Kengo Kuma.
The multi-purpose complex includes museums, a beautiful modern shrine, year-round events & festivities, shopping, karaoke & net cafe, and some great ramen!
3:00pm: 6NEN4KUMI
Musashino Line to Chuo Line: Higashi Tokorozawa → Nishi Kokubunji → Shinjuku
Enjoy a complete recreation of a Japanese elementary school situation in the restaurant and a variety of nostalgic school lunch menu items such as fried bread and soft noodles.
5:00pm: REEAST ROOM
Hailing from the United States, the concept of break rooms gained popularity worldwide, even going as far as the far east and onto the shores of Japan. This REEAST ROOM is located in Shinjuku and is a unique location where one can partake in demolition and the breaking of all sorts of things without any reserve, while also being safe doing so. Axe/Hatchet throwing is also a highlight of REEAST ROOM, as well as having a shisha/hookah bar.
Stylish and contemporary, REEAST ROOM provides all its visitors with a truly unique and action packed experience. Perfect for entertainment, or as a stress reliever within on of the busiest cities in the world.
7:00pm: SHINJUKU KABUKI HALL
A total of 10 food festivals fusing food, music, and images under the theme of “Festival”. Soul food” from all over the world, from Hokkaido in the north to Kyushu, Okinawa, and neighboring Korea in the south, will be gathered. Various performances and events are held every night.
11:00am: TOKYO MIDTOWN YAESU
Tokyo Midtown Yaesu, located near Tokyo Station in Chuo City, Tokyo, is a vibrant commercial complex offering shopping, dining, and cultural experiences. It features a diverse range of retail stores, restaurants, and cafes catering to various tastes and preferences. With its convenient location and array of amenities including offices, a hotel, and event spaces, Tokyo Midtown Yaesu serves as a dynamic hub in Tokyo's bustling business district.
12:45pm: MACHI-MOBI
Machimobi was born in "Tokyo Midtown Yaesu",“Electric mobility” “RODEM” and “rickshaw”. Experience nostalgia and freshness at the same time.
3:00pm: HARAKADO
Yamanote Line: Tokyo → Harajuku
HARAKADO is a new creative space in Harajuku, Tokyo, designed to stimulate the senses and inspire new cultural expressions. It draws inspiration from the area's rich history of cultural innovation and the current trend of self-expression through social media.
4:00pm: J-WAVE ARRTSIDE CAST
J-WAVE ARRTSIDE is a unique studio dedicated to audio and video content creation, operated by the Japanese FM radio station J-WAVE. Guests can utilize professional-grade equipment to freely express their creativity. In this instance, we'll use the studio to reflect on our journey and create original content to commemorate our trip.
6:00pm: VEGAN IZAKAYA MASAKA
Hidden among the cool restaurants of Shibuya Parco’s Chaos Kitchen, this shitamachi (downtown) izakaya-style restaurant serves only vegan dishes. The main dish is the mock karaage made with soy meat instead of chicken, which comes in five different flavor including grated radish, Chinese black vinegar, Sichuan style hot and spicy, sweet and sour, and teriyaki mayonnaise.
7:30pm: SOAK
SOAK is a dynamic experimental restaurant & bar, representing Shibuya's time warp. A Neo-Tokyo atmosphere, overlooking spectacular views of central Shibuya.
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