Sweet Potatoes, KitKats, Historic Alley, and $100 Ramen!?

1. Go Sweet Potato-Picking in Kawagoe, Saitama

Looking for an activity to take your kids to? Technically Kawagoe is not in Tokyo — it is a short day trip north, about 30 minutes driving — with a lot to offer.

One thing is this sweet potato picking farm. I know what you’re thinking “sweet potatoes?” Yes, because Kawagoe is famous for their delicious sweet potatoes.

And while you’re there check out the Coedo area for some ancient Japanese architecture — centuries old buildings restored and maintained — where you’ll also find incredible souvenirs to take home.

2. Make your own KitKats in Shibuya

With over 400 flavors in Japan, KitKat is a nationwide favorite here. The Japanese love ♥♥ their KitKats. And now you can make your own at the KitKat Chocolatory in Shibuya.

“After you sit down at the KitKat Chocolatory’s My KitKat station, you’ll receive a checklist to select your flavor of chocolate, four toppings, and a gift box.” (GaijinPot)

Nestle really goes all-out with KitKats in Japan — can you imagine 400 flavors? It’s crazy. Seems like a new flavor comes out for every season and occasion.

3. What will you eat in Japan?

You’ve probably heard that Japan is one of the food capitals of the world. It’s a place that has some of the best food you can find anywhere. But what is Japanese food?

We put together a guide that explains almost 80 different dishes you can find in Japan. find your next favorite.

4. A glimpse into the past

This is a fantastic photo capturing a cramped Tokyo alley that appears to have been untouched since the beginning of modern Tokyo. It’s dark, dusty, falling apart… but still very interesting to look at.

5. A $100 bowl of ramen!?

Yes, you read that right — it’s no typo. There really is a $100 bowl of ramen. It’s a ramen joint called Mashi no Mashi in Roppongi — and they serve wagyu ramen! Founded by the mastermind behind Wagyu Mafia, a private members-only wagyu restaurant.

Yes, that wagyu, with the rich melt-in-your-mouth marbling.

“No matter how much I didn’t want to spend $100 on a bowl of ramen, I had to at least try this one once.” (Ramen Adventures)