Jeremy Jacobowitz in Tokyo and Osaka: 8 Spots

Researched by Varedelo

Planning notes for Tokyo

Must-try foods in Tokyo

• Monjayaki
  MonjayakiOften called Tokyo's 'soul food,' monjayaki is a savory pan-fried batter similar to okonomiyaki but with a much runnier, liquid consistency. It is traditionally cooked on a teppan grill right at your table, where you use small metal spatulas to scrape and eat the crispy bits. While long-established in the Tsukishima district.
• Edomae Sushi
  Edomae SushiWhile traditional Edomae sushi is a Tokyo staple, the current hotspot for 2026 is the Azabudai Hills development. Establishments like Sushi Azabu have become the 'it' locations for high-end omakase. These spots focus on the historic Edomae style—using vinegar-seasoned rice and cured or marinated fish—served in some of the city's most architecturally.
• Pressed Matcha Mont Blanc
  Pressed Matcha Mont BlancA major viral dessert trend for September 2026 is the 'Fresh Pressed' Matcha Mont Blanc. This involves a specialized machine that extrudes ultra-fine strands of vibrant green matcha-infused chestnut purée over a base of cake or meringue. Leading the hype is Suzukien in Asakusa, which continues to draw massive crowds for its multi-level matcha intensity.
• Nama Donuts
  Nama DonutsThe obsession with 'Nama' (raw/fresh) donuts has reached a fever pitch in 2026. The brand 'I’m Donut?' remains the iconic destination, known for its brioche-style dough that is so airy and moist it almost melts in the mouth. New seasonal flavors for September include spiced autumn creams and local fruit fillings.
• Hitsumabushi (Nagoya-style Eel in Ginza)
  Hitsumabushi (Nagoya-style Eel in Ginza)While unagi (eel) is a summer tradition, 'Hitsumabushi'—a Nagoya-style grilled eel dish eaten in three distinct stages—is currently the trending way to enjoy it in Tokyo's Ginza district. Spots like Hitsumabushi Bincho are highly recommended in 2026 for their charcoal-grilled eel that is first eaten plain, then with condiments.
• Wagyu Yakiniku
  Wagyu YakinikuYakiniku (Japanese BBQ) remains a top-tier Tokyo experience, but the 2026 trend favors 'all-you-can-eat' premium Wagyu experiences that don't break the bank. Bebu-Ya has become a viral sensation for offering unlimited high-quality Wagyu beef and drinks for approximately $60 USD.

Trip guide

• About Tokyo
  About TokyoTokyo is a metropolitan center located on the eastern coast of Honshu, Japan. Historically, the area was a fishing village known as Edo before 1603, when it became the seat of the Tokugawa shogunate. In 1868, the city was renamed Tokyo and established as the imperial capital.
• When to go
  When to goThe best months to visit Tokyo are March to May for cherry blossoms and September to November for vibrant autumn foliage and mild temperatures. While summers are uncomfortably hot and humid and winters are chilly but dry, spring and fall offer the most pleasant weather for walking. Peak tourist seasons coincide with late March and the "Golden Week" holiday in early May, so consider visiting in late autumn or mid-winter for lower prices and fewer crowds.
• Getting around
  Getting around Tokyo

  • International Air Travel Most visitors arrive via Narita International Airport (NRT) or the more centrally located Haneda Airport (HND). From Narita.
  • Trains and Subways Tokyo features an extensive rail network including JR East lines and various subway systems. The JR Yamanote Line is a primary loop connecting major hubs like Shinjuku and Shibuya. For seamless travel.
  • Shinkansen (Bullet Train) If traveling to Tokyo from other Japanese cities like Osaka or Kyoto, the Shinkansen is the most efficient method, arriving at Tokyo or Shinagawa stations. These high-speed trains are frequent, punctual.
• Local tips
  Local tips

  • Purchase a digital or physical IC card like Suica or Pasmo for seamless, tap-and-go payment on all Tokyo trains, buses, and at many convenience stores.
  • Carry a small bag for your personal trash, as public garbage cans are rare in the city and locals are expected to take their waste home.
  • Always have some physical yen on hand, as many small ramen shops, traditional izakayas, and local shrines do not accept credit cards.
• What’s new
  What’s new in Tokyo

  • PokéPark Kanto: The world's first permanent outdoor Pokémon theme park, which opened earlier in 2026 at Yomiuriland.
  • Gransta Tokyo Renovation: The Marunouchi underground shopping area at Tokyo Station is debuting a major revamp on September 16, 2026.
• OSAKA-INFO↗
  OSAKA-INFOThe official tourism guide of the Osaka Convention & Tourism Bureau, providing travel information on sightseeing, food, and events in Osaka.