ARTICLES
TRADITION
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UNCOVER JAPAN THROUGH THE ARTS OF UKIYO-E
Explore and immerse yourself in the role that the art of ukiyo-e and kabuki had and continues to have in Japanese culture and arts. Learn about ukiyo-e from a Japanese expert in addition to experiencing the amazing makeup of kabuki, one of Japan's most endearing and fascinating performing arts.
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CURATED STROLL INTO THE CITY OF DIVERSITY
Delve into diversity in Daikanyama, one of Tokyo's eclectic collections of artistic enclaves. With an expert guide, a walk around Shibuya's "brooklynesque" neighbor unveils the rich history and many charms of this enchanting area.
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A FOODIE'S PARADISE
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SEE TOKYO THROUGH THE EYES OF ARCHITECT KENGO KUMA
World-renowned architect Kengo Kuma designs more than just buildings - his works serve as places where the past and present connect, and where visitors can experience Japan's history through a contemporary lens. We visited some of his most iconic projects in Tokyo, and learned the fascinating stories behind them from the man himself.
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AN EVER-CHANGING CITY
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TOKYO’S GLOBAL APPEAL
We asked Japan travel specialist Scott Gilman to share his view of Tokyo. Just what is it that makes this destination so appealing?
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HOSPITALITY PRO: “HOME IS A FEELING”
Aman Tokyo general manager Tomoko Yagi spoke with us about ways that travelers can feel right at home even while immersing themselves in authentic local experiences that might at first seem anything but familiar.
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TOKYO—A UNIQUE BLEND OF EAST AND WEST
Tokyo based interior designer Masamichi Katayama of Wonderwall shares a few of his favorite must-visit spots in Tokyo.
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NO(H) WHERE LIKE TOKYO
Noh actor Noboru Sano guides us to three of his favorite places in Tokyo to experience authentic Japanese culture at its best.
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TOKYO'S MANY LAYERS
Monocle Magazine's Asia Bureau Chief Fiona Wilson has spent more time than most exploring the mix of old and new that make Tokyo such a unique place. Here, she shares a few of her favorite finds in the city.
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THE HIDDEN POWER BEHIND TRADITIONAL JAPANESE CUISINE
Unlock one of the secrets to Japan's revered culinary heritage. At a historic sake brewery where traditional craftsmanship meets modern luxury, or an innovative and elegant restaurant, take an intriguing voyage to discover the many powers of koji through gastronomic delights and exclusive experiences.
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ZEN FOR YOUR EVERYDAY LIFE
With the flurry of activity in modern society, it has become more important than ever to intermittently calm one's mind and realign oneself. Visit Chokokuji Temple in Nishi-Azabu to practice zazen (seated meditation with the eyes naturally kept open) with Buddhist monks. You'll walk away with newfound realizations, having learned a meditative technique that you can easily incorporate into your daily routine.
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NIHONRYORI KANDA
Hiroyuki Kanda's eponymous restaurant in Toranomon is an ideal place to experience true Japanese cuisine at its finest.
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TOKYO’S GREAT OUTDOORS (AND A TIPPLE OF SAKE, TOO)
Beautiful nature and exciting adventure awaits just a short train ride from central Tokyo. Finish your day with a visit to one of Tokyo’s most loved sake breweries.
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TOKYO'S CULINARY THEATER
Tokyo's long celebrated restaurant scene is not just about superlative food: add a sprinkle of flexibility combined with some first-class hospitality - and the end result? Restaurants such as atelier morimoto XEX, where guests can enjoy a bespoke culinary experience which is unique, atmospheric and always memorable.
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MORNING YOGA IN A VERITABLE MUSEUM
Morning yoga classes at Hotel Gajoen Tokyo in Meguro ward invite yogis of all levels from beginner to advanced to practice in beautiful art-filled surroundings. Afterwards, enjoy a relaxed healthy breakfast in the boutique hotel’s top-floor lounge.
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MEDITATION GALLERY KURENBOH
Visit this unique gallery run by the art-loving head priest of Chohouin Temple for a meditative conversation with the carefully selected art pieces on display.
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"BEAUTY" IS POWER
At Ippodo, beauty is power. The owner and curator of this gallery in Tokyo's luxurious Ginza district is Keiko Aono, a knowledgeable art connoisseur who is dedicated to showcasing contemporary art by Japan's top artists and rising stars alike. Savor Japanese art and culture in the intimacy of Ippodo's private tearoom - a tranquil, exclusive space for experiencing the Japanese tea ceremony while admiring exquisite works of art.