Tama River is located in the outskirts of west Tokyo. A large waterfall located upstream, and the cold water is surprisingly clear. There, you will find a wonderful landscape no identical to any of those you see today. At the same time, you will forget the fact that you are in Tokyo.

Citylight Book at Yoyogi-uehara is the type of independent bookstore where I would wish to hang every week. It opens in the afternoon and runs through late night as a bookstore, as well as a meet-up place, a bar for book lovers. Founded by Kaminaga-san, a veteran who had worked with publishing industry for many years before creating his own version of bookstore, this is a cool place to browse for new titles of books and magazines of a wide range of genres/topics. The second floor works as a nice study room too. CABO, the mix place where the bookstore is located also offers other original selection of snack bar and fine dining. You can easily drift in and out, encountering interesting souls in the hood. I had a book launch and talk event here in May, 2024. It's been such a wonderful experience, good crowd and good vibes only! 

Another good found in the Nihonbashi area where I usually stay in Tokyo. The sourdough based toast simply stole my heart and inspired me how to enjoy sourdough as a healthier base of nutritious and simple breakfast. It was impressive how popular he bakery place is - long line started soon after the opening time in the morning. Apparently they are one of the local favorites who is well known to the foreign visitors too like me:-) Fortunately they manage it properly to maintain a quality experience. Located right beside a community playground, Parklet also has a lovely grocery inside where you can find their selection of artisanal food and drinks. Will come back next trip! 

This cave at the foot of Mt. Fuji is located in the spread of volcanic rocks, surrounded by sea of trees where compass is no use. The temperatures drop suddenly, and you will not be able to stay inside the cave for long. However, the explorers will go further inside seeking for the bats flying around. It is highly recommended to visitors of the sacred Mt. Fuji .

This bar is located in the residential area of Kyodo. It opens Monday to Saturday. People come after work, they start to chat naturally with the owner and other customers. Drinks are always excellent but also the food is marvelous.