Koh’s Tokyo Dialogue

It’s a common scene in Japan: a foreign traveler steps out of a drugstore with a tiny bottle of eye drops in hand, looking oddly satisfied. Meanwhile, a local glances over, puzzled— why are these so popular? The answer lies in Japan’s unique category of “cool” eye drops. Unlike anything found elsewhere, these drops deliver a powerful menthol or eucalyptus-induced cooling sensation that startles first-timers and hooks frequent users. Nearly every brand in Japan has its own version of these “cool” eye drops. A Cultural Quirk: Eye Drops as Refreshment In Japan, using eye drops isn’t always about treating a problem—it can be a quick refreshment , much like popping a mint or washing your face. Students before exams, office workers during long shifts, and commuters after a dry train ride might use a drop or two just to feel more awake and alert. The “Coolness Level” Ranking Some brands even label their products with a “coolness level” from 1 to 8—or even 10—with higher numbers delivering a ...

When visiting Japan, one cultural experience that offers a deep connection to everyday local life is the sento —a public bathhouse where people go to relax, wash, and sometimes simply meet their neighbors. While less famous internationally than onsen (natural hot springs), sento have long played a central role in Japanese urban life. What Is a Sento? A sento is a type of communal bathhouse that historically served a vital role in neighborhoods across Japan. Especially in the postwar era, many Japanese homes didn’t have private baths, so sento were essential for daily hygiene. But sento were more than just functional—they were also places for socializing and community bonding. Today, while most homes do have baths, many people still visit sento for relaxation, affordability, and nostalgia . A National Network: The Sento Association Most traditional sento belong to regional branches of the Japan Sento Association , a nationwide organization that helps standardize pricing and maint...

Just a few minutes’ walk from JR Nippori Station’s East Exit , you'll find a hidden treasure for anyone who loves fabrics, sewing, or handicrafts — Nippori Fabric Town(日暮里繊維街 ) . This compact but densely packed street stretches for a few blocks and has become a beloved destination for both industry professionals and amateur creators alike. A Haven for Creators Originally a textile wholesale district for professional tailors and designers, Nippori Fabric Town has evolved into a welcoming place for all kinds of makers , from students and hobbyists to tourists in search of unique souvenirs. You’ll find everything from traditional Japanese prints and cottons to lace, leather, denim , and a stunning variety of accessories like buttons, threads, and zippers. Many shops reflect Japan’s aesthetic — indigo-dyed cloth, sakura patterns, or yukata-style prints — making it especially appealing to international visitors. And since many shops open around 10:00 a.m. and close by 6:00 p....

As a Tokyo resident, I have to admit that watching tourists dressed in colorful character costumes racing through the streets on low-profile karts is quite an entertaining sight. It brings a bit of whimsy and brightness to the otherwise concrete-dominated urban landscape—a welcome break from the everyday routine of businesspeople and commuters.  Seeing groups of Mario-like characters zipping past famous landmarks like Shibuya Crossing or Asakusa’s historic temples can be oddly charming, making you smile even on a hectic day. Yet behind the smiles, selfies, and social media buzz, there lie some growing urban challenges that Tokyo must reckon with. Real-life Mario Kart — but not exactly “Mario Kart” These public road kart tours appeared around the early 2010s. The concept is clever and simple: tourists zip through famous Tokyo spots such as Shibuya, Asakusa, and Shin-Kiba on mini karts, dressed up in playful costumes. This is the only activity that lets you experience the world of J...

Tokyo Enters the Rainy Season On June 10th, Japan’s Meteorological Agency announced that the rainy season — known as tsuyu ( 梅雨 ) — has officially begun in Tokyo and the surrounding Kanto-Koshin region. If the pattern follows the historical average, the rainy season will likely end around July 19. If you're planning a trip to Tokyo or living in Japan, you may have heard of tsuyu . But what exactly is it? Should you be worried about constant rain? Let’s take a closer look at what this season really means and how to enjoy your time, even if the skies are gray. What Is Tsuyu? Tsuyu — often translated as "the plum rain" — is Japan’s rainy season. It typically lasts from early June to mid-July, depending on the region. It's caused by a seasonal weather front that brings moist air and frequent rainfall. But here’s the good news: Tsuyu does not mean non-stop rain. Many days are cloudy with only light rain, and there are often breaks of sunshine between sh...

In Japan, there’s a curious — and often amusing — phenomenon. After decades of commuting, working overtime, and climbing the corporate ladder, some Japanese salarymen retire and suddenly take up… making soba noodles. Their friends chuckle. Their children roll their eyes. "Oh no," they say, "He's turning into a soba master in retirement." But behind the teasing lies something real: a quiet joy in working with your hands, and the meditative beauty of turning buckwheat flour into something nourishing and simple. What is Soba? Soba noodles are thin, made primarily from buckwheat flour, sometimes blended with wheat flour for elasticity. They can be served hot in broth or cold with a dipping sauce — enjoyed year-round but especially popular during seasonal and traditional occasions like New Year's Eve. Tokyo is a city with a deep love for soba noodles. Despite being a bustling metropolis, it boasts countless soba specialty shops, from traditional long-estab...