Tan Li AnnKnown for its innovation and cutting-edge technology, Japan offers a vast array of cultural and modern attractions. Whether you’re marvelling at the futuristic skyline of Tokyo, indulging in the culinary delights of Osaka, or exploring the ancient temples of Kyoto, each city provides unique discoveries. Let’s delve into the must-visit destinations in these iconic cities and find the ideal MIMARU hotels to enhance your stay!
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MIMARU provides apartment-style hotels with spacious rooms which are ideal for families or groups of 4-10 people. These expansive living and dining areas are designed for comfort, perfect for recharging after long days of exploring Japan! MIMARU also offers themed rooms like the Pokémon Rooms, where you can experience unique decorations and special surprises. Use coupon code mimaru_tz to enjoy a 5% discount on your booking. Combine the coupon with your membership discount for even more savings! Valid for reservations made between 15 Sep 2024 and 30 Nov 2024, for 2 to 6-night stays from 15 Sep 2024 to 31 Jan 2025. Please note that Pokémon rooms are excluded from this promotion, and no additional discounts beyond the MIMARU Member Program discount will be applied. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to save on your next stay! |
A cultural melting pot
1. Tokyo
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Start your Tokyo adventure at the world-famous Shibuya Crossing, an iconic symbol of the city’s vibrant energy. Often called the busiest pedestrian intersection in the world, Shibuya Crossing is where hundreds of people converge from all directions, creating a mesmerising display of organised chaos. As you cross, take a moment to absorb the electrifying atmosphere, and be sure to snap a photo of this unforgettable experience!
Also read: 12 Coolest Things to Do in Shibuya, Tokyo for First-Timers
Image Credit: yu_photo / PIXTA(ピクスタ)
At Sunshine City, convenience meets variety, offering an all-in-one experience where you can explore multiple attractions without the hassle. From diving into a world of retail therapy to marvelling at sea life in the aquarium to enjoying panoramic views at the sky park observatory, TENBOU Park, this Ikebukuro landmark has something for everyone.
Image Credit: TENBOU Park | Official Instagram
Unlike other observatories where strict rules prohibit food and drinks, the rooftop cafe has an extensive menu that includes everything from filling meals to baby food. Explore the open, grassy area with swaying nets and window-side swings and even set up a weekday picnic in the sky!
Image Credit: Tokyo Metro Museum | Official Website
If you’ve ever been fascinated by Japan’s intricate train system, a visit to the Tokyo Metro Museum is a must. This museum is located beneath the Tokyo metro tracks and offers a deep dive into Japan’s world-famous trains. Train enthusiasts will love the gachapon capsule machines that dispense train-themed collectibles like station signs and the iconic Japanese ekiben.
Where to stay: MIMARU Tokyo Ueno East
Image Credit: Apartment Hotel MIMARU
Immerse yourself in a one-of-a-kind Pokémon-themed experience at MIMARU Tokyo Ueno East. From a giant Snorlax snoozing on the bed to Pokéball-themed cutlery, every corner offers a playful nod to the beloved franchise. Want to make your stay even more memorable? Pick up ingredients from a nearby supermarket and try out fun Pokémon recipes available in your room. Special Pokémon-themed gifts, from collectable cards to pouches and bags, await you, so take home these keepsakes from your unforgettable stay!
Alternatively, MIMARU Ikebukuro is just a short walk from Ikebukuro Station. This hotel offers convenient amenities like a washer and dryer, making your stay hassle-free. It also features a unique eSports room concept, equipped with five gaming PCs, where friends and family can relax and enjoy gaming together.
2. Osaka
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No trip to Osaka is complete without visiting Dotonbori, the city’s bustling entertainment and food district. From neon-lit streets to savoury street food, Dotonbori captures the essence of Osaka’s vibrant culinary scene.
Osaka offers an array of mouthwatering treats, with takoyaki leading the way. Cooked to golden perfection and topped with savory sauce, mayo, and bonito flakes, these octopus-filled dough balls are a flavour-packed delight!
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Did you know that Osaka is also the birthplace of omurice? Originally created at Hokkyokusei Shinsaibashi as a more exciting twist on a plain omelette and rice for a customer with stomach problems, its easy-to-enjoy taste quickly gained popularity. Today, omurice has become a beloved dish across Japan and around the world, cherished for its comforting blend of fluffy eggs, warm rice, and a variety of fillings or toppings.
Also read: 10 Most Instagrammable Cafes in Osaka
Image Credit: Universal Studios Japan | Official Website
While Osaka is famous for its delicious street food, the city offers so much more beyond its culinary delights. Universal Studios Japan in Osaka is not just a theme park; it’s a journey into some of the most iconic fictional worlds.
Step straight into video game heaven at Super Nintendo World, where you can hop into the driver’s seat in a real-life Mario Kart game. The park also boasts stunning architecture that immerses you in its various themed zones, making every corner feel like a scene from your favourite movies or games. Don’t miss out on this showcase of Osaka’s vibrant culture!
Where to stay: MIMARU Osaka Shinsaibashi East
Image Credit: Apartment Hotel MIMARU
MIMARU Osaka Shinsaibashi East is one of five MIMARU locations equipped with accessible rooms, providing a welcoming environment for families of all needs. With rooms starting at 40 square meters, MIMARU ensures that guests have ample space for luggage, medical, and mobility equipment. Each room is also equipped with a household-sized bathroom and kitchen. This allows guests to take comfortable showers and those with dietary requirements to easily prepare meals, offering a more relaxed experience for all travellers.
To further enhance accessibility, MIMARU offers a detailed access map and recommended room types to guide wheelchair users from the nearest station. MIMARU also gathers details about guests’ accessibility needs during the reservation process. When booking, guests are encouraged to specify any special requirements, such as rental equipment like bed guards or bath mats. This allows MIMARU to prepare in advance and ensure that all necessary accommodations are in place for a comfortable stay.
3. Kyoto
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If you’re exploring must-visit spots in Kyoto, Kiyomizudera Temple is likely at the top of your list. Known for its sweeping views and striking architecture, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is a favourite among visitors who flock to the famous wooden stage, which juts out over a hillside, offering panoramic vistas of Kyoto. It’s an ideal spot for capturing the essence of Kyoto’s cultural and natural beauty– making it one of the city’s most Instagrammable landmarks.
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If you’ve been exploring must-visit spots in Kyoto, the Arashiyama Bamboo Forest is likely already on your list. This iconic site is not only a photographer’s dream but also a popular spot for visitors to rent traditional kimonos, adding a touch of cultural charm to their stroll through the towering bamboo groves—making it one of Kyoto’s most Instagrammable destinations.
For a more tranquil and unique experience, take a 15-minute walk to Adashino Nenbutsuji Temple. With a 500 yen entrance fee, this serene Buddhist temple is a tribute to over 8,000 souls who passed away without surviving relatives. The temple grounds feature a quieter bamboo grove, with steps woven into the landscape, enhancing the dramatic beauty of the scene. It’s the perfect blend of Kyoto’s spiritual heritage and natural beauty!
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If you’re seeking a glimpse into Kyoto’s past, a day trip to Nijo Castle is a must. Located in the heart of Kyoto, this UNESCO World Heritage Site offers visitors a chance to walk through history, showcasing the grandeur of the Edo period.
One of the castle’s most unique features is the “nightingale floors,” designed to creak as you walk across them, alerting guards of intruders. This detail adds a touch of intrigue to your visit, as you imagine life within the castle centuries ago. Stroll through the Ninomaru Palace, adorned with beautifully painted sliding doors, and explore the lush gardens that change with each season, offering picturesque views year-round.
Also read: 10 Hidden Gems in Kyoto, Japan You Can’t Afford to Miss
Where to stay: MIMARU Nijo Castle
Image Credit: Apartment Hotel MIMARU
MIMARU Nijo Castle is a dog-friendly hotel and the perfect spot for you to rest after a long day of exploring with your furry friends. While all dogs must be in a pet carrier in common areas of the hotel, they are free to roam and enjoy themselves inside the rooms. MIMARU even ensures your four-legged companion has a comfortable stay with provided essentials like a cage, food bowl, and dog bed!
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Use coupon code mimaru_tz to enjoy a 5% discount on your booking. Combine the coupon with your membership discount for even more savings! Valid for reservations made between 15 Sep 2024 and 30 Nov 2024, for 2 to 6 night stays from 15 Sep 2024 to 31 Jan 2025. Please note that Pokémon rooms are excluded from this promotion, and no additional discounts beyond the MIMARU Member Program discount will be applied. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to save on your next stay! |
Brought to you by Apartment Hotel MIMARU
