TokyoSpark | Hand-Picked Eats and Things to Do in Tokyo

Even the greatest adventurers had help. TokyoSpark is your insider guide to discovering the interesting, unique, and quirky Tokyo.

Don’t know much about Tokyo yet? Start with my Tokyo Orientation then check out my Tokyo Guide.

The Best Street Food Alleys in Tokyo

In this guide, I bring you seven of the coolest, most awesome alleys in central Tokyo that offer some of the most incredible food you'll find in Tokyo.

What to Avoid in Tokyo? Stay Safe and Have a Great Time in Japan

Too often you'll see popular city travel guides share all the awesome things to check out in Tokyo, Japan. What about the things to avoid in this quirky city?

The Incredible Price of Japanese A5 Wagyu Beef

Japanese A5 wagyu beef is super, SUPER expensive. Obviously the price will fluctuate some, but the average price right now is around $250 per pound!

Things to do in Ueno: Cherry Blossoms, Museums, a Zoo & More

1-Day Itinerary in UenoMorningAfternoonEveningTop Sights in UenoUeno ZooUeno ParkNational Museum of Western ArtNational Museum of Nature and ScienceTokyo Metropolitan Art MuseumEating in UenoWired Cafe Atre

Yakiniku Sumizumi: A Hidden, Top-class Wagyu Yakiniku Experience

Yakiniku Sumizumi is a mouth-watering, quality-first wagyu yakiniku restaurant with a fantastic atmosphere -- located in Azabujuban, Tokyo.

Posada del Sol: Finally, Authentic Mexican Food in Tokyo

Posada del Sol is a teeny, tiny authentic Mexican restaurant -- with actual Mexican chefs -- located a couple of minutes from Kumegawa station.

Daikanransha: The Giant Sky Wheel in Palette Town Odaiba

Daikanransha, also known as the "Giant Sky Wheel," is the Japanese name of the 377 ft tall, previously world's tallest Ferris wheel located in Odaiba, Tokyo.

Does it Snow in Tokyo? How much? When?

Yes. It does snow in Tokyo. But not much. Of course, that depends. Obviously it isn't anywhere near places like upstate New York, or Michigan may see.

Ishigami Osteria: A tiny Italian Restaurant Way Over in Ome

Ishigami Osteria is a teeny, tiny Italian restaurant specializing in calzones, spaghetti, lasagna, and other fine Italian dishes -- located in Ome, Tokyo.

Things to do in Harajuku: Hit the Most Memorable Sights & More

This guide brings you over 35+ things to see, do, dine, and love in the Harajuku & Aoyama area of Tokyo -- packed full of unique, strange, eclectic, and more; there's something for everyone to enjoy.

Things To Do In Roppongi: Top Sights, Local Vibe, and More

This guide brings you a huge bucket-list of things to see, do, and eat in the Roppongi/Akasaka area of downtown Tokyo. Over 20 sights, sounds, and eats reviewed -- and more added over time.

iL Chianti: Lovely Italian Dining, Fantastic for Date Night

iL Chianti is a fantastic little Italian restaurant specializing in a moody, candle lit atmosphere and delicious authentic Italian cuisine with locations all over Tokyo.

Latest Artwork

Looking for something awesome to hang on your wall? Or maybe the most unique, exclusive souvenir for your friends to show off Japan?

Hi, I’m Chad Thiele. I’m the founder of TokyoSpark.

I’ve lived in Tokyo for the last 23 years and now share everything here. Learn more about me here.

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I focus on real, authentic content that passes my “human filter” and on decades of experience — TokyoSpark arrives in your inbox unfiltered, unbought and unbossed.