It feels like I haven’t left Japan at all. 😅 If you’re wondering, this ain’t a throwback ‘cause I’m actually back in the best metropolitan city in the world. And I can finally use #ohwhattokyosolong before going #konnichiwhoajapan! I’m gonna be inundating my feed with more 🇯🇵 content. Let’s see how many carousels and reels I can churn out this time around. #hellotokyo #gonnaeatshopandrepeat
Woot! Finally cleared my 🇯🇵 content backlog! #malaysiaairlines #malaysianhospitality #konnichiwhoajapan
Until next time Kyoto! #konnichiwhoajapan
Is it wrong for me to say that the mini pork donburi is better than the ramen? 🤭 I ordered the grilled A4 wagyu ramen in black soy sauce, and while that bowl was good, it couldn’t beat the overflowing grilled pork chunks of the mini donburi. *burp* If you’re heading here, I’d recommend getting your ramen with the grilled pork vs. the wagyu. The grilled pork was simply top-notch. 👌🏼 #menyainoichihanare #menyainoichi #michelinbibgourmand #konnichiwhoajapan
The kinda Japan I love. A mix of old and new with a dash of eccentricity thrown in. #fujifilmmy #konnichiwhoajapan
Unagi claypot rice? Yes, please! 🤤 This was something different that I had not come across before. Usually, you’ll find unajyu as the signature or the bestseller for a majority of unagi specialist restaurants. But at Jisai Kyouman, their unagi claypot rice is the star. There’s something about food being cooked in earthenware that makes it taste more delicious. Or is that a made up concept in my head? 😆 Anyway, you can enjoy it in three different ways; each with its own merit in accentuating certain flavour profiles. I prefer having mine with a sprinkle of sansho pepper. That tingling spiciness goes really well with the fatty, sweet lacquered unagi pieces. To avoid disappointment, you need to make a reservation in advance AND specify that you want to preorder the unagi claypot rice. The diner next to me saw what I was having and wanted to order the same but was told that it was only for advanced bookings. You’ve been warned. #unagiclaypotrice #konnichiwhoajapan
Is my love for @ichizawa_shinzaburo_hanpu verging on obsession? Yes, it probably is. I have three bags now in my possession: one for my work commute, one for my travels and one for my camera. I need to think of another excuse, I mean use, 😜 if I want to get another. #ichizawashinzaburohanpu #konnichiwhoajapan
My favourite photo of Kennin-ji. So it deserves a post of its own. #fujifilmmy #kenninji #konnichiwhoajapan
Some folks love visiting museums, I love visiting temples and shrines. And if you’re like me, Kennin-ji is one temple that you should put on your list when you’re nearby Gion. While the manicured landscaping was picturesque, it was the massive ceiling mural of the double dragons that made me go whoa. Truly a sight to behold! #kenninji #konnichiwhoajapan
First time using an item immediately after purchasing it on a trip. 😛 Breaking my own self-imposed rule because it just felt right. #whysaveitforlater #whenitmatchesyouroutfit #konnichiwhoajapan
There’s something about this view that just makes me happy. ❤️ #kamogawa #kyotoatdusk #fujifilmmy #konnichiwhoajapan
My customary stop whenever I’m in Kyoto. And I snuck a few photos while the sales associate was prepping my purchase at the back. 🤫 #visvim #freeinternationallaboratory #hirokinakamura #filkyoto #konnichiwhoajapan
Two more goshuin to add to my goshuincho. One from a temple, the other from a shrine. #goshuinstagram #goshuin #yasakakoshindo #yasuikonpiragu #konnichiwhoajapan
From mid to late November, when the autumn leaves are at their peak, several temples and shrines stay open late to hold special illumination events. Kiyomizudera, a temple dating back over a millennium, is one of those places you must go for the autumn foliage light-up. It’s always crowded. There’s no other way to avoid that. Even so, I felt it was worth braving through the sea of people just to witness the iconic view. And seeing it with my own eyes, I understood why it’s popular. If you’re planning to go, make sure to arrive at least an hour before the sunset so you can secure your spot on the viewing platform. Once the lights come on, take a few minutes to soak in the view, snap a few photos and scoot before the crowd swells. #kiyomizuderatemple #kiyomizu #kyoto #autumnillumination #konnichiwhoajapan
When the hotel stairwell feels correct. #dhawayurakyoto #fitcheck #konnichiwhoajapan
I was immediately sold when I saw the tatami seating area in the room — it’s such a cosy little nook to chill with a cuppa in the morning or to wind down after a whole day out exploring. #dhawayurakyoto #banyantree #thesimplethingsinlife #konnichiwhoajapan
𝘗𝘢𝘶𝘴𝘦. 𝘉𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘵𝘩𝘦. 𝘈𝘯𝘥 𝘤𝘰𝘯𝘵𝘦𝘮𝘱𝘭𝘢𝘵𝘦 𝘰𝘯 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘧𝘭𝘦𝘦𝘵𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘮𝘰𝘮𝘦𝘯𝘵𝘴 𝘰𝘧 𝘪𝘮𝘱𝘦𝘳𝘧𝘦𝘤𝘵𝘪𝘰𝘯. At @rustsabi, the way of the Japanese tea ceremony and by extension, the philosophy of wabi-sabi, shines through. If you were to pay close attention, you could catch the subtle pleasing details every now and then, from the purposeful, calm movements when preparing the tea infusions to the creative tweaks introduced to the usually traditional confections. It’s this collective amalgamation that enables the whole experience to be greater than the sum of its parts, even though each of the five individual pairings, when seen in silo, was also stellar on its own. The space was beautiful, in keeping with the overall aesthetic. Think of it as a cross between a museum gallery and a chic boutique. There are only two available slots each day, so you might want to book in advance to avoid disappointment. #rustsabi #ryutafukumura #japaneseteaceremony #konnichiwhoajapan
One more goshuin. This time from the historic Chōhō-ji (Rokkaku-dō) Temple. #goshuinstagram #goshuin #konnichiwhoajapan
I’ve waited far too long to sink my teeth into the wonderful baked goods of @boulangerie.et.cafe.fiveran. 😭 #boulangeriefiveran #konnichiwhoajapan
“How did you find out about this place?” the Japanese diner who sat next to me politely asked. “Usually only locals.” I understood his inquisitiveness. COPPIE is inconspicuously located in an area of Kyoto not visited by tourists. So if you’re dining here, it would mean it was intentional and not a serendipitous accident. So I came to know about @coppie.kyoto from… you guessed it, Tabelog. The raving reviews piqued my curiosity. And I wanted to experience (and taste) what this modern izakaya had to offer. Unlike typical bar fare, you’re getting innovative and delicious dishes that would feel right at home at a fine dining establishment — minus the high price point. Safe to say, I walked out feeling satisfied and contented. Notably, the atmosphere here was lively and the hospitality was unmatched. It’s like you’re at a popular neighbourhood joint that prides itself on its food and service. "I found it online, from Tabelog," I replied. He smiled, "Good choice." I concurred. It was a good choice indeed. #coppiekyoto #konnichiwhoajapan
For fans of retail and beyond, ShinPuhKan is worth a visit. Reopened back in 2020, this Taisho Era cultural icon was given a contemporary makeover without losing its retro soul. Bordering the central courtyard with its beautiful mini garden, you can find some of my favourite retailers like Globe Specs, Beams and Y. & SONS intermingling with concept cafés such as (THISIS)SHIZEN and Café Kitsuné. I spent quite a bit of time just moseying from one retailer to the next, and you should to! Plus, the newly-added annex, designed by Kengo Kuma, is now home to the uber-cool Ace Hotel — which also shares its lobby with the first international outlet of Stumptown Coffee Roasters. It’s no surprise why ShinPuhKan is seen as the hottest hangout spot for the creative crowd in Kyoto. #shinpuhkan #kengokuma #konnichiwhoajapan
It’s no secret that I’ve waxed lyrical about @officine_universelle_buly for the longest time. The Eau Triple, their range of water-based perfumes which is also my favourite, can be described as bottled sophistication, with an inspired blend of exotic scents that is both luxuriant and delicate. Alternatively, if you’re looking for something stronger, their exquisite scented body oil, Huile Antique, would serve you well. Personally, I would get both in the same scent so you can layer them. Even if your olfactory isn’t enthralled (unlikely), your eyes will. The shop here and even the ones I’ve visited in Tokyo are all beautifully outfitted to look like an old-world, pharmacy-style perfumery with walnut cabinetry, ceramic jars and even ornate brass faucets. Still, the branch in Daikanyama has to be the most beautiful outlet I had laid eyes on. I posted it on my feed back in 2022. Buly’s packaging is the epitome of heritage maximalism done right. Pure class. Who can say no to mystical illustrations framed by a chic-looking serif typeface? Not me. To top it all off, the on-hand calligrapher store will even personalise the labels — it’s that little extra touch to make the whole experience all the more magical. #officineuniversellebuly #konnichiwhoajapan
Here’s a peek into some of my favourite shops in Kyoto. Bookmark this in case you need a reference for some menswear gems the next time you’re in Kyoto. #mykindaretailtherapy #gatekeepingsomethough #thatshowitissometimes #konnichiwhoajapan
I love my Japanese teas, to the point that I would get my fix every single day. So whenever I visit Japan, I would always stock up. While I do try out different tea purveyors, Ippodo has always been my staple. Moreover, you can’t go wrong with their sencha and hojicha — the former is light and refreshing; the latter is aromatic and rich. But it’s never wrong to get both. 😙 #ippodo #konnichiwhoajapan
I’m collecting goshuin like I’m collecting pokemon. #gottacollectemall #goshuinstagram #konnichiwhoajapan
Another day, another hidden temple in central Kyoto. I was mildly surprised not only by the colours of the goshuin, but the fact that there were three different types to choose from! 😍 Of course I had to get all three. #goshuinstagram #myoshinjitemple #konnichiwhoajapan
Don’t skip school. #schoolbuscoffeebakers #konnichiwhoajapan
Just a laid-back day exploring Kyoto. #konnichiwhoajapan
@koke__kyoto was the highlight of my culinary adventure across western Japan. It took the top spot, hands down. This chic restaurant, tucked away in a quiet neighbourhood, caught my attention when I was doing my pre-trip research. I was hungry for something different, something experimental. And this rising star seemed to have folks talking in the far corners of the internet. That alone piqued my curiosity enough to make a reservation. Helmed by Chef Yusaku Nakamura, his brilliance could be seen in how he strung diverse cuisines together into one harmonious, melodic piece. As the name KOKE suggests, it’s an acronym of Kobe, Okinawa, Kyoto and Español. So you’ll find traces of inspiration from these four different regions in each of the dish he presented. And it really changed how I perceived the dreaded f-word in the culinary world, by that I meant “fusion”. This is the kind of fusion that flows with a rhythmic purpose. A sense of being. There’s always a point of view. And not just doing for doing’s sake. Simply put, KOKE is the true definition of inspired. And I cannot recommend this place enough. #kokekyoto #michelinstar #michelinguide #konnichiwhoajapan
In search for some peace and quiet. #konnichiwhoajapan
The goshuin of Arashiyama. 1. From Nonomiya Shrine (for a happy, loving marriage) 2. From Mikami Shrine (for beautiful, luscious hair) #goshuinstagram #nonomiyashrine #mikamishrine #konnichiwhoajapan
Hey Google, where is the best spot to view autumn leaves in Kyoto that I haven’t been to before and that will also leave me in awe? #tenryuji #goshuinstagram #konnichiwhoajapan
Counting down the days. #konnichiwhoajapan
✨ Manifesting ✨ Hoshinoya needs no introduction. And this one right here which is located on the fringes of Arashiyama has been on my list of places to stay for well over a decade. And seeing it with my own eyes for the first time didn’t lessen any of its magic. ❤️ #autumninkyoto #onedayinhoshinoya #konnichiwhoajapan
Can’t believe I’m saying this but this was my first time at Arashiyama Bamboo Grove despite countless visits to Kyoto. And it made me realise why it took me so long. For one, Arashiyama is far. And because of the distance, it’s almost a necessity to plan a full-day itinerary here to make the journey worthwhile. Besides, there’s also the crowd. Even before the pandemic, photos and videos always showed how packed Arashiyama was; not just the grove but the surrounding streets as well. So I thought I made the smart move by reaching the Bamboo Grove at the break of dawn. Oh boy, I was wrong. Others had the same plan too. When I got there around 5:30am, there was a gaggle of photographers already waiting at *the* spot. It was dark. Cold. And certainly not the omg-this-zen-bamboo-grove-is-so-magical experience that I was expecting. After 15 minutes of admiring and capturing the iconic scene, I decided my time was better spent on my own photoshoot before the horde of tourists descended. 😅 Eventually they did arrive in droves and the place got crowded around 7:30am. 🫠 So yeah, this was my Bamboo Grove adventure in a nutshell. #wokeupat4am #butiwillstillgoback #arashiyamabambooforest #konnichiwhoajapan
I had the privilege of securing a coveted seat at Kenya, Chef @sakai_kenya’s eponymous restaurant, which was recently awarded 1 Michelin Star. Even before this accolade, getting a reservation at this 8-seater establishment was no easy feat. I actually had to plan my Kyoto itinerary around this because my initial few dates were all fully booked. But all that effort was well worth it. The food was delicious; classically Japanese but with influences from different cuisines. Like the Chinese-style char siew grilled over binchotan. Or the oft-found dim sum classic, siu mai, reinterpreted with the seasonal kani. There’s a fresh point of view from Chef Kenya, which challenges the norms and traditions even if purists disagree. And his hospitality was bar none. I was the only non-Japanese speaking customer there, yet he made the dining experience feel unpretentious and casual. More so with his eclectic music playlist that changed with each dish. One moment you hear Faye Wong, the next, ABBA’s Chiquitita filled the room. A first, in my books. For ¥19,800, this omakase dinner was by far the most value-for-money. And of all the wonderful restaurants I visited on my 2-week West Japan adventure, Kenya comes in 2nd on my list. Not too bad, seeing that the one that took the top spot was miles ahead in terms of deliciousness and creativity. #kenyasakai #michelinguide #onemichelinstar #konnichiwhoajapan
On the edge. #konnichiwhoajapan
Doing the most touristy thing that one can experience in Amanohashidate. For those over a certain *ahem* age, it’s best that you stretch before doing the “matano-zoki” (an act of bending down and looking at a scenery between one’s legs). Otherwise, you might pull a muscle or two. 🤣 #konnichiwhoajapan
Just needed another autumnal shot on my feed. #konnichiwhoajapan
The monochrome edit. #konnichiwhoajapan
I always find myself captivated by the beauty of Japan’s mountainous landscapes, more so during the thick of autumn season. 🍁 And Mount Nariaiji is no different. #konnichiwhoajapan
This embroidered goshuin from Nariaiji Temple is by far the most intricate and decorative goshuin I’d ever laid my eyes on. Initially, I didn’t want to splurge on this. At 3 times the usual price, it was the most expensive goshuin I had come across. Plus, I was already getting the two other (also beautiful) handwritten ones. Yes, you read that right, two! And let me digress a little; doing a quick tabulation in my head, I gotta say, whilst goshuin hunting is a fun and fulfilling hobby, it certainly isn’t the most affordable. 😆 So, after exploring the temple grounds and being beguiled by the autumn foliage, a realisation washed over me and I felt that the price was justified since I was already all the way here. I hurried back to the temple office and happily paid for this limited edition temple stamp. Honestly, if I had left Amanohashidate without this, I would kick myself. Phew, goshuin math for the win! #goshuinstagram #konnichiwhoajapan
With its storied history, Motoise Kono Jinja is by far the most significant shrine in Amanohashidate. They offer two different types of goshuin for the different sections of the shrine. Naturally, I got both. 😅 And it wasn’t my intent to get a new goshuincho but seeing how beautiful the cover was, I couldn’t resist. Besides, I convinced myself that since this is the land where the mythical dragon resides, it’s only apt that I got one to celebrate my inner dragon. 🐉 #goshuinstagram #konnichiwhoajapan
What is washoku in the modern world? To that question, it’s best to cross the threshold of @310amanohashidate and sample the brilliance of how this category of cuisine is celebrated, interpreted and reimagined. The ingredients are integral to the story here. They are always hyperlocal and seasonal. Because of this strong reverence for nature’s bounty, the flavours are put into focus and further heightened with purposeful originality as seen from the culinary influences from other cultures being introduced. What I love most is how this sort of experimentation is adding vibrancy to what washoku could be. While Amanohashidate is not known as a progressive culinary hub, this unpretentious restaurant has shown that it has the right approach in leading the charge and putting Amanohashidate on the map. #konnichiwhoajapan
One more temple seal to add to my goshuinchō. The calligraphy strokes on this goshuin felt… almost powerful. Swipe to see Chionji Temple during the day and at night. #goshuinstagram #konnichiwhoajapan
Hello Amanohashidate! #konnichiwhoajapan
One last post of Ine. Because I can’t get tired of this view. #fujifilmmy #konnichiwhoajapan
All I’m gonna say is in order to secure this boathouse, you’ll need to have a booking strategy, a whole lot of perseverance and a dash of luck. May the odds be ever in your favour! 📍 大平荘 or Taiheiso #konnichiwhoajapan
📍 35.6747092, 135.2887160 #konnichiwhoajapan
This was supposed to be a single photo post. 🤪 I just had too many on my roll and it would be a waste not to post them… right? #fujifilmmy #konnichiwhoajapan
Isn’t this the definition of picturesque? The fishermen of Ine call these wooden boathouses (funaya) home. These unique waterfront structures give the illusion that they are floating on water due to way they are built. The first floor provides the fishermen direct access to the sea and their boats, while the second floor serves as living quarters. Some, like the one I stayed in, have an adjacent “garage” for the boats to dock. Over the years, a handful of these boathouses had been turned into quaint inns and ryokans, giving visitors of this fishing town more reasons to stay the night and experience what it’s like to live in a funaya. #fujifilmmy #konnichiwhoajapan
One with Ine. 💛 #konnichiwhoajapan
Forever charmed. #konnichiwhoajapan
Was this the best meal one could get in Kinosaki? You’d think so judging by the consensus online. But I’m here to tell you that it wasn’t as exceptional as I thought it would be. Middling at best? At least the ultra stylish space made up for the overall dining experience. Don’t get me wrong. There were a number of hits, notably the steamed squid and kikurage mushroom dumpling, the grilled fish and the poached pear dessert. These were excellent and well-executed. I blame the other dishes; for instance, the tajima wagyu beef, which disappointingly left me wanting for more or the sashimi platter that whilst beautifully plated was marred by the tough sea bream and slimy squid or even the akabana soba, which I was excited for initially but the heavily mucoid texture of the accompanying mushrooms didn’t add anything to the dish. I might be the outlier here with my review. But I’m also comparing this to other similar meals I had at this price point. Oh well. On the flip side, the photos turned out great and I ain’t gonna waste them. 😂 Besides, without this long caption, nobody would know any better. Content is content. #konnichiwhoajapan
Utsuroi Tsuchiya Annex is a boutique gem for design lovers. The exterior looks amazing, especially in the dusky evenings when it exudes a warm glow. And with only a total of five ultra chic rooms, this newly refurbished fire station building has all the makings of a quiet, relaxing stay, befitting Kinosaki Onsen. The amenities are typical of traditional ryokans. Futon beds. Tatami mats. Private baths. But it’s the balcony overlooking the town that gives this place that magical touch. Imagine yourself returning after a jaunt around town, onsen hopping, you plop yourself on the hanging rattan egg chair and watch the world go by. As your body is still warm from the hot spring baths, the cold mountain air feels unbelievably refreshing. Ah, ain’t that the life? And I have to also commend the hospitality. The owners were friendly and welcoming. They even helped me with my takkyubin request and dropped me off at the train station. Omotenashi at its finest. Thanks for the amazing stay, @utsuroi_kinosaki! 🙇🏻♂️ #konnichiwhoajapan
The many different goshuin of Onsenji. This is what usually happens whenever I am offered the option of getting more than one handwritten goshuin from the same temple (or shrine). #goshuinstagram #konnichiwhoajapan
Where the mineral-rich hot springs could seemingly absolve the stress away. #konnichiwhoajapan
Made my way over to Kinosaki Onsen to go ‘onsen hopping’, which turned out to be one of the most memorable experiences on this trip. #konnichiwhoajapan
It’s scary to think that I almost passed this dinner over something else, if it wasn’t for my internal monologue convincing me that it was worth splurging ¥25,000 on Matsuba crab. For one, I told myself that I was there during peak snow crab season, where the meat is the plumpest it will ever be and bursting with natural sweetness. Two, I wouldn’t know when will I ever visit Tottori again, where Matsuba crab reigns supreme. It’s nicknamed the crab prefecture for a reason; having ranked number one when it comes to the amount of crabs caught nationwide, doubling that of second-place Hokkaido. So I tried my luck at Kanimatsuba, one of the top crab specialty restaurants which I had previously bookmarked. For a prized delicacy like Matsuba, a reservation a day before is a must as restaurants would typically order the exact amount to be delivered each morning because the meat doesn’t preserve well over time once ashore. The waiter told me that they were full for that evening. Unwavering, I pleaded with the help of Google Translate, asking if there was a way they could squeeze me in. And by happenstance, the chef-proprietor was there. He popped his head above the counter, checked his stock and said yes. 🥹 You couldn’t imagine how happy and relieved I felt at that point! The entire meal was fantastic to say the least from start to finish. The trio of amuse-bouche alone was already spectacular to begin with — the small bites had their raison d’être in embracing your palate, setting the tone for what’s to come. What came next was a symphony of expert preparations, each one a different way of letting the Matsuba crab shine. It was hit after hit. And it went beyond just the taste. There was also elegance in the plating. The star of the show was of course the one huge serving of boiled Matsuba crab. I had never tasted crab so sweet and succulent. I’m now spoiled for life. Alas, Instagram is telling me that I’m close to my character limit. All I could say is, this crab feast at Kanimatsuba would forever linger as a cherished culinary experience, sealing Tottori as a place worthy of a culinary escapade. 📍 Kanimatsuba かにまつば本店 #konnichiwhoajapan
Gallivanting around the city centre before my dinner reservation. #konnichiwhoajapan
Tottori, having direct access to the Sea of Japan, affords it a constant supply of the freshest seafood across the seasons. I’m sure there are many kaisendon spots in this coastal city but to find one that is beloved by locals had me scouring the depths of the interweb. And that was how I stumbled upon Taiki. The simple menu of only three items mirrored the barebones simplicity of the shop. You know how I love a tight, focussed menu. My recommendation is to go all out and order the most luxurious option. For a mere ¥2,300, it was piled with every type of seafood imaginable. 🤤 That’s why all the locals kept mentioning ‘cospa’ when reviewing this place. The quality and the value you’re getting? Top-notch. You wouldn’t have guessed that Taiki was popular judging by its humble appearance. But they were sold out minutes after I was seated and had my order taken. They only open for lunch and even before they hung their noren, I could hear the constant dull ringing of phone calls coming from the kitchen inside, from locals I’d assume, placing their lunch reservations. So arrive at least 10 minutes before they open to avoid disappointment. #konnichiwhoajapan