There are many beautiful parks in Tokyo, but this time I visited Showa Memorial Park to enjoy the nemophila in bloom. There were very few foreign tourists and no crowds, so I was able to take my time and fully appreciate the seasonal flowers.

Todoroki Valley is the only natural valley in Tokyo’s 23 wards, located in Setagaya. Stretching about 1 km along the Yazawa River, it offers a peaceful walking path surrounded by lush greenery.

In our Japanese home cooking class, we create the menu in advance while listening to our guests’ preferences and planning together.

Okonomiyaki on a Hot Plate: A Traditional Japanese Home-Cooked Dish

Everyone enjoyed their respective classes.
Ramen and gyoza, both popular Japanese dishes, remain timeless favorites.
The participants also made beautiful rolled sushi using fresh Japanese fishes.

I had guests from Hong Kong join our roll cake and katsu curry class. This was their second visit as repeat guests.

When it comes to hanami in Tokyo, my usual spots are Todoroki-temple, Sakura-zaka in Tamagawa‑Jōhoku, Ōta Ward, and the Meguro River, both of which are close to where I live. Every year, I am drawn to the gentle beauty of their blossoms, and as the seasons pass, these places have become scenery that I look forward to with deep affection.

Introducing onigiri featuring salt-pickled cherry blossoms. These sakura pickles are more than just food; they symbolize a cherished Japanese culinary tradition deeply rooted in history, spirituality, and the spirit of omotenashi hospitality.

Mari sushi are colorful sushi balls popular for Hinamatsuri (March 3rd, Peach Festival), shaped like traditional Japanese handballs.

Let me share a glimpse of our recent cooking classes.
In my class, guests learn recipes that are easy to recreate at home, even after returning to their own countries.
After meeting at Todoroki Station, we'll take a leisurely walk through the beautiful green gardens of Setagaya on our way to our class.

Plum blossoms bloom earlier than cherry blossoms, from the end of winter into early spring, releasing an elegant, sweet fragrance. Their petite white or pink flowers grace gardens and parks, evoking poetic sentiment as they bravely unfurl amid the chill.

Tokyo is currently experiencing light snow, with weak snow clouds passing through the area. As of this afternoon, intermittent flurries are possible until around 6 PM, potentially leading to minor accumulations on roads or walkways.

I prefer meals savored in the countryside over those in Tokyo.

Here, allow me to introduce a wonderful restaurant I discovered in Hakodate. I would love to return to the place that served unforgettable squid ink pasta and venison dish.

It takes just over an hour by plane from Haneda to Hakodate. The snow-covered city offered a breathtaking winter scene that seemed to clear my mind and soothe my heart.

Wajima-nuri is a traditional lacquerware produced in Wajima City, Ishikawa Prefecture, known for its durability and beautiful luster.

The trip from Tokyo to Shin-Osaka Station on the Tokaido-Sanyo Shinkansen takes approximately 2.5 hours. Osaka shines brightest when balancing food, sights, and experiences.
Iconic photo spots abound, and above all, the cuisine offers authentic flavors at more affordable prices than Tokyo.
Come on, let's head to Japan's Latin Quarter—Osaka!

This time, I drove to Odawara Fishing Port, about an hour from Tokyo by a car, to enjoy some fresh seafood. While Tsukiji and Toyosu have now taken on more of a “touristy flavor,” Odawara feels like the most accessible place for Tokyo residents to experience truly local tastes. The port is especially famous for its horse mackerel, but all the other fish there are incredibly fresh and absolutely delicious.

December in Tokyo brings a crisp chill that signals the arrival of winter. The city glows with stunning illuminations, creating a festive Christmas atmosphere that attracts both locals and visitors.

Kuhonbutsu Joshinji Temple is located in Setagaya Ward, Tokyo, and is considered one of the top spots for autumn foliage in the city. Every year, many worshippers and photography enthusiasts visit to enjoy the colorful scenery. The best time to see the autumn leaves is usually from late November to mid-December, with the peak occurring in early December.

Hagi City flourished as a castle town during the Edo period, with landmarks such as the ruins of Hagi Castle, samurai residences, and merchant districts that have been beautifully preserved. The city is also renowned for sites associated with Yoshida Shoin and other prominent samurai from the late Tokugawa period, such as the Shoka Sonjuku Academy and Shoin Shrine. These spots offer visitors a deep sense of the history surrounding the Meiji Restoration. Furthermore, Hagi is well known for its delicious local cuisine, providing visitors with a rich cultural and culinary experience combined