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Tokyo Weekender
30-06-2025
- Tokyo Weekender
Two Days in Nihonbashi: A Blend of History, Culture and Modern Delights
When people imagine Tokyo, they often think of neon lights, crowds and nonstop motion — but there's another side to the city that's just as compelling, and far more relaxed. Nihonbashi, which literally means 'Japan bridge,' was once the commercial heart of old Edo. Today, it's a neighborhood where Tokyo's past and present quietly intertwine. It's a place of understated beauty: full of traditional crafts, riverside strolls and historic spots tucked between glassy modern buildings. Nihonbashi also happens to be one of the best-connected areas in the city, making it an ideal home base for visitors. From here, it's easy to get to Tokyo Station, as well as major destinations like Ginza, Asakusa and Ueno — but you may find you don't want to leave the neighborhood at all. Whether you're wandering through centuries-old department stores, browsing artisanal sweets or soaking in a hinoki-scented bath at the end of the day, Nihonbashi offers a grounded, graceful way to experience Tokyo. If you're staying in this neighborhood, the centrally located Mitsui Garden Hotel Nihonbashi Premier is a stand-out option. Part of the brand's upscale Premier line, the hotel is refined without being flashy, with subtle design details and thoughtful service that reflect the area's heritage. It also has a dedicated information counter on the first floor, where staff provide multilingual guidance on local sightseeing, dining and cultural experiences. Here's how to spend two days discovering Nihonbashi's timeless charm. Day 1: Tracing Edo's Legacy and Modern Elegance Morning: A Bridge Through Time Start your journey at the district's symbolic center: the iconic Nihonbashi Bridge , which has stood since 1603. The bridge is the 'zero kilometer' reference point for Japan's major highways, indicating the distance to Tokyo. Take time to admire its intricate design, including the detailed lion statues and the kirin (mythical creature) statues that adorn it. To see Nihonbashi from a different angle, take a short river cruise that departs just below the bridge. You'll glide along historic waterways and get a different view of the cityscape, gaining insight into how this district once functioned as a merchant port. Just a short stroll away is the Bank of Japan Head Office , a grand, neo-Baroque structure from the late 1800s. While access inside is limited, its exterior is a marvel of late 19th-century architecture, designated as a National Cultural Property. Lunch: Traditional Umami Flavors For lunch, treat yourself to a bowl of Edo-style tendon at Kaneko Hannosuke . This beloved tempura spot is popular for a reason: light, crispy tempura is piled generously over rice and served with a rich, umami sauce. Be prepared for a queue, but the perfectly fried tempura are well worth the wait. Alternatively, enjoy a tonkatsu set at Tonkatsu Hajime Nihonbashi , a tonkatsu specialty restaurant that serves incredibly crispy pork cutlet set meals at reasonable prices. Afternoon: Cultural Discoveries and Retail Therapy After lunch, head into the cool, marbled interiors of Nihonbashi Mitsukoshi Main Store , Japan's first department store. Explore its stunning architecture, high-end fashion, and incredible basement food hall ( depachika ), where you can sample various Japanese delicacies. Next, head to the impressive Mitsui Memorial Museum , housed in the Mitsui Main Building. It showcases a vast collection of Japanese and East Asian art, including national treasures, collected by the Mitsui family over centuries. Before the day ends, wander through Coredo Muromachi . The complex spans three buildings and offers a blend of traditional Japanese crafts, specialty food shops and contemporary boutiques. It's an excellent place to find unique souvenirs and experience a more refined side of Japanese retail. Evening: Dining & Relaxation Start with a drink at Bar Matsu , the hotel's elegant 9th-floor lounge. With panoramic city views and a moody, modern ambiance, it's the perfect place to unwind before dinner. The bar specializes in seasonal cocktails crafted with Japanese spirits and ingredients. For a rich, flavorful dinner, try Yakiniku Itadaki , a popular yakiniku restaurant serving premium cuts of Tajima and Kobe wagyu beef. Or opt for a hot pot experience at Ningyocho Imahan , where sukiyaki and shabu-shabu are prepared with care. After dinner, take a slow walk through Amazake Yokocho , a narrow lane lined with old-fashioned snack shops and cozy bars. The name refers to the sweet fermented rice drink, but you'll also find nostalgic treats like ningyo-yaki (doll-shaped sponge cakes), which you can buy from local vendors. Finally, wind down in a traditional Japanese bath back at the hotel. Mitsui Garden Hotel Nihonbashi Premier has its own state-of-the-art bath, located on the 9th floor, which is free for guests. The space blends modern design elements with a serene traditional ambiance, featuring hinoki cypress and koyamaki (Japanese umbrella pine) accents. This refined and calm atmosphere continues into the guest rooms, which are equipped with thoughtful details like Edo Kiriko-inspired design motifs and Japanese-style ceramic washbasins. Day 2: Artisanal Crafts and Hidden Shrines Morning: Delving Into Local Heritage Ease into your day with breakfast at Nihonbashi Asada , the hotel's signature restaurant on the 9th floor. Originally established in 1867 in Kanazawa City as 'Asadaya,' this branch restaurant offers a Japanese breakfast featuring over 20 delicate, seasonal side dishes served in elegant small bowls. Western options are available as well. Next, embark on Ningyocho's Seven Lucky Gods Pilgrimage : a mini-pilgrimage to the eight small shrines dedicated to the Seven Lucky Gods scattered throughout Ningyocho. It's a delightful way to explore the neighborhood's quieter alleys and soak in local traditions. You can collect stamps at each shrine. On the course, you'll encounter Suitengu Shrine , known as a place to offer prayers related to safe childbirth and healthy children. Its modern, gleaming golden architecture stands in stark contrast to some of the older shrines. Then, explore the art of washi paper at Ozu Washi , a shop with over 350 years of history. They offer a wide selection of beautiful washi paper as well as workshops where you can try making your own. Lunch: Casual Nihonbashi Eats For a diverse and delicious lunch, head back to the food courts within the Coredo Muromachi complex. You'll find everything from sushi and bento boxes to international cuisine. Alternatively, seek out one of the many charming cafes in the area for a lighter meal or a coffee break. Options include the sumptuously decorated Tsubakiya and the long-established gem Mikado Coffee flagship. Afternoon: Contemporary Art and Sweet Souvenirs Spend your final afternoon in Nihonbashi's cultural corners. Admire contemporary exhibitions at the Artizon Museum , Mitsukoshi Contemporary Gallery or Tokyo Station Gallery , or learn about the evolution of Japanese currency at the Bank of Japan Currency Museum — a small but fascinating space near the bank's main building. Wrap up your stay with a visit to one of Nihonbashi's famed wagashi shops. The neighborhood is a haven for traditional Japanese sweets. Visit shops like Eitaro Sohonpo or Shigemori Eishindo for ningyo-yaki or kintsuba (red bean cake) to take home as delicious souvenirs. About Mitsui Garden Hotels The Mitsui Garden Hotels brand is built around the idea of offering spaces that feel as refreshing and well-tended as a garden — calm, comfortable and relaxed. It has 3 4 locations across Japan and overseas, with the 'Premier' series offering a more elevated stay. Each hotel has its own personality, shaped by the local neighborhood and culture it's rooted in. There's also a thoughtful approach to sustainability woven into the design — for instance, many lobbies feature wood sourced from responsibly managed forests in Hokkaido, adding warmth and a sense of place the moment you walk in. More Info To book a stay at Mitsui Garden Hotel Nihonbashi Premier, click here . For more information about the Mitsui Garden Hotels, click here .
Wales Online
07-05-2025
- Wales Online
Affordable European city where you can soak in historic spas and have £1.50 pints by the river
Affordable European city where you can soak in historic spas and have £1.50 pints by the river Hungary's affordable capital, Budapest, has historic spas, river cruises and cheap pints and you can fly there direct from Bristol Airport The buzzing European city straddles both history and modernity, with its roots extending deep into early European civilisation. (Image: Portia Jones ) Looking for a wallet-friendly city break in Europe? Hungary's affordable art nouveau capital, Budapest, has one of the best nightlife scenes in Europe and incredible thermal spas to soak in. The buzzing city straddles both history and modernity, with its roots extending deep into early European civilisation. Originally two separate cities, Buda and Pest, they were unified in 1873 to form Budapest, a vibrant and culturally rich metropolis on the Danube River's banks. The 1,770-mile-long River Danube divides the city into Buda, with rolling hills, a historic castle, and Pest, the flat, more urban side. It also serves as the city's lifeblood, fostering trade and communication for centuries. From Ottoman occupation and Habsburg rule to a modern EU city, beautiful Budapest has evolved over the centuries. Today, it's a flourishing tourist hotspot with thermal spas, Baroque-style castles, ruin bars, and restaurants. Here's how to enjoy an affordable weekend break in Budapest. Soak in Thermal baths No trip to Budapest is complete without a visit to one of its famous thermal baths (Image: Portia Jones ) No trip to Budapest is complete without a visit to one of its famous thermal baths to unwind in warming waters. After a long night of partying, the distinctive, yellow coloured Széchenyi Baths provide the perfect way to unwind and soak away the hangover blues. It's one of the largest bath complexes in Europe with an array of indoor baths, thermal pools and wellness services including saunas, aquafitness, aerobics, a gym, and spa treatments in a beautiful neo-Baroque setting. While the wellness offerings are impressive, the picturesque outdoor pools at Széchenyi are perhaps its most iconic feature. Even in the depths of winter, locals and tourists can relax in the warm waters of the main pool, which hovers around a comfortable 27-38°C. It's an unforgettable sight, steam rising from the surface as bathers enjoy the warmth, surrounded by the historic grandeur of the baths' grand architecture. The baths are surprisingly affordable too, with tickets starting from just £22, a proper bargain for a steamy spa day. Feast on street food at Római Part The beach life is just a bike ride away from the centre of Budapest at Római Part (Image: Portia Jones ) Looking for a low-cost activity? The beach life is just a bike ride away from the centre of Budapest at Római Part, a 10km-long riverside escape right on the Danube. Boating, beer, and burgers await you at this mellow river beach retreat, with bohemian bars, live music venues, and tasty street food offerings. Order fried fish or hot and crispy Lángos, settle into pastel deckchairs and watch the canoeists glide by; there's no hastiness here. You can bike from the centre of the city to Római Part, following the Danube, or jump on the HÉV electric train from Batthyány tér to Rómaifürdő. This service also allows a limited number of bikes aboard if you want to bring your bike to the beach. For the latest restaurant news and reviews, sign up to our food and drink newsletter here Enjoy a Night river cruise Budapest is at its most beautiful at night (Image: Portia Jones ) Budapest is at its most beautiful at night. Take a night river cruise along the Danube to see the city's grand buildings bathed in light. These cruises offer a unique perspective of Budapest's illuminated landmarks, including the Parliament Building, Buda Castle, and the Chain Bridge. Some cruises even include dinner and live music, providing a memorable way to experience the Hungarian capital. Prices start from around £8 for a basic river cruise, rising to over £200 for VIP cruises. Visit Budapest's famous Ruin Bars (Image: Portia Jones ) One of the most innovative outcomes of its transformation is the city's famous ruin bars. Located primarily in the historic Jewish Quarter, these bars are set in once-abandoned buildings and courtyards. They offer an eclectic and vibrant atmosphere, where you can sip on a pint for less than £2 if you visit lesser-known haunts. (The more popular ones will generally be more expensive). The ruin bar concept started by repurposing abandoned spaces into social hubs that combined art, culture, and nightlife elements. These off-beat bars, which first appeared in the early 2000s, are housed in abandoned buildings and courtyards primarily located in Budapest's Jewish Quarter, in District VII. This historic area, once the site of the Jewish ghetto during World War II, fell into disrepair in the decades following the war, leaving behind numerous crumbling structures that would later become the perfect setting for these unique nightlife establishments. The concept of ruin bars began with Szimpla Kert (Image: Portia Jones ) The concept of ruin bars began with Szimpla Kert, which opened its doors in 2002 in a dilapidated building in Kazinczy Street. Its success was immediate, as it blended its rundown aesthetic with mismatched furniture, quirky art installations, and a laid-back atmosphere. Szimpla Kert quickly became a symbol of Budapest's ability to reinvent itself, and its success spurred the opening of more ruin bars across the Jewish Quarter. Characterised by its eclectic and curious décor, mismatched furniture, bathtub sofas, and graffiti-covered walls, these alternative bars created a laid-back, bohemian atmosphere infused with music. Ruin bars aren't just places to drink cheap booze in off-beat settings; they are multifunctional spaces that host various cultural events, including live music, art exhibitions, film screenings, and even farmers' markets. The ruin bar scene (Image: Portia Jones ) Today, the ruin bar scene in Budapest is more vibrant than ever. On a typical weekend night, the streets between Dob and Dohány utca near Klauzál tér are thronged with locals and tourists, all eager to experience the unique charm of these popular and lively bars. Here are some of the best ruin bars in the city to discover. Szimpla Kert: As the original ruin bar, Szimpla Kert remains one of the most popular spots in Budapest. It's not just a bar but a cultural hub hosting live music, film screenings, and a weekly farmers' market. The vast space has multiple rooms and a large courtyard with hanging disco balls, guitars and exposed wiring. Instant-Fogas: This colossal party complex results from a merger between two former ruin bars, Instant and Fogas Ház. With its seven distinct rooms, each playing different genres of music, Instant-Fogas is a go-to spot for those looking to dance the night away. Doboz: Located on Klauzál Street, Doboz is easily recognisable by the giant red King Kong statue that dominates its courtyard. This bar combines the classic ruin bar aesthetic with a modern twist, offering themed rooms and a variety of music styles. Csendes: For a more relaxed experience, Csendes offers a unique take on the ruin bar concept. This venue doubles as a café during the day and a bar at night, with a décor that includes vintage toys, mannequins, and century-old chandeliers. Élesztőház: Craft beer lovers will love Élesztőház, which has an impressive selection of Hungarian craft beers on tap. The bar's industrial-style décor and laid-back atmosphere make it a popular spot for locals and tourists looking for beers and beats. Explore Fisherman's Bastion Jaw-dropping Fisherman's Bastion screams 'fairytale vibes' (Image: Portia Jones ) Jaw-dropping Fisherman's Bastion screams 'fairytale vibes' and is one of the best-known historical monuments in Budapest, located near the grand Buda Castle, in the Várkerület. Since 1987, it has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site as part of the Várkerület District. While it might seem like a very old building, the current structure was built between 1895 and 1902 in Neo-Romanesque style, on the base of a stretch of the Buda Castle walls, by architect Frigyes Schulek. With a sweeping panorama of the city from the Buda side over the river Danube and its attractions in Budapest, including the Hungarian Parliament building, this is one of the most photogenic spots in all of Europe and is best visited in the early morning or late evening for epic sunset snaps. Visiting the lower part of the complex is free of charge, but a small fee is required to ascend the top turrets and upper terraces, and it is absolutely worth the money. Visit the most beautiful café in the world Imagine a café where you come for the décor rather than the coffee. (Image: Portia Jones ) Imagine a café where you come for the décor rather than the coffee. An establishment so grand that it attracts mobs of Instagram girlies, twirling and posing for likes. This is the New York Café in Budapest, where the bold inscription outside reads "the most beautiful café in the world." It's frankly hard to disagree; this opulent 125-year-old café attracts thousands of visitors and snap-happy TikTokkers who flock here to marvel at its lavish rococo décor of marble columns, spectacular frescoes, and crystal chandeliers. If you don't mind splashing the cash, order their 24-carat gold cappuccino, served with Valrhona chocolate and raspberry cake, for a decadent start to the day. On a budget? Nurse a coffee and enjoy the scenic surroundings for just a few quid. Go on a Budabike tour Bikers new to Budapest might benefit from an informative guided tour of the city (Image: Portia Jones ) Bikers new to Budapest might benefit from an informative guided tour of the city with a local guide who can help cyclists navigate the winding bike paths that cut through the urban landscape and shabby chic grandeur. Top-rated biking company Budabike offers specialist city bike tours, including highlights, night, and communist tours. These reasonably priced tours bring Budapest to life with personalised guiding and passionate insider knowledge. Guides will also show you city highlights, off-beat curiosities, and explain the city's history with factoids. Did you know that Hungary invented the concept of escape rooms, or that the boozy, six-part wine Puskás spritzer cheekily commemorates Hungary's 6-3 football victory over England in 1953? Now you do! Explore Margaret Island Escape city life and cycle to verdant Margaret Island (Image: Portia Jones ) Escape city life and cycle to verdant Margaret Island, a 2.5 km long recreational island in the middle of the Danube River. Meander through flower-filled meadows, romantic ruins and peaceful promenades, keeping an eye out for the dancing Musical Fountain that locals love. Rest at hipster haunt Steg Pub and feast on traditional Hungarian Lángos, a delectable deep-fried crispy dough flatbread loaded with sour cream, garlic butter and cheese. Plan Your Visit to Budapest You can fly direct from Bristol Airport (Image: Portia Jones ) Getting There from Bristol Flying to Budapest from Bristol is straightforward, with regular direct flights from Bristol Airport to Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport. The flight takes around 2.5 hours. Once you arrive in Budapest, you can reach the city centre in around 35 minutes by taking the airport shuttle bus or a licensed taxi. To compare airfares and book the best deals, check out Skyscanner and Google Flights. Accommodation Budapest offers a wide variety of places to stay, from historic hotels in grand Habsburg-era buildings to boutique stays in the Jewish Quarter and riverside apartments with views of the Danube. Use to search and book accommodation within your budget range. Staying in District V (Belváros), District VI (Terézváros), or District VII (Erzsébetváros) will put you close to many major sights, restaurants, and transport links. Getting Around Budapest has an extensive and affordable public transport system, including metro lines, trams, buses, and trolleybuses, all operated by BKK. You can buy tickets from vending machines, BKK ticket offices, or the BKK app. Daily, multi-day, and travel card options are available, and they offer unlimited rides within the city. Tram 2 is especially scenic, running along the Danube past many of the city's most iconic landmarks. Things to Know Before You Go Currency: Hungary uses the Hungarian Forint (HUF), not the Euro. Many places accept card payments, but some smaller vendors and markets may prefer cash. Hungary uses the Hungarian Forint (HUF), not the Euro. Many places accept card payments, but some smaller vendors and markets may prefer cash. Language: Hungarian is the official language, but English is commonly spoken in hotels, restaurants, and tourist areas. Hungarian is the official language, but English is commonly spoken in hotels, restaurants, and tourist areas. Thermal Baths: Bring swimwear to visit Budapest's famous thermal baths, such as Széchenyi or Gellért. A towel and flip-flops also come in handy. Bring swimwear to visit Budapest's famous thermal baths, such as Széchenyi or Gellért. A towel and flip-flops also come in handy. Weather: Summers can be hot, while winters are cold and sometimes snowy – pack accordingly. Spring and autumn are ideal for sightseeing. Summers can be hot, while winters are cold and sometimes snowy – pack accordingly. Spring and autumn are ideal for sightseeing. Tipping: A 10–15% tip is customary in restaurants and cafés if service isn't included. Article continues below
Korea Herald
15-04-2025
- Business
- Korea Herald
‘The Heritage': Shinsegae revives century-old bank as cultural, retail landmark
In 1935, Seoul saw the construction of a rare building in the heart of Myeong-dong: the five-story Joseon Savings Bank designed in a neo-Baroque style. Shedding its banking identity of 90 years -- including as Korea Savings Bank, Jeil Bank and Standard Chartered Bank Korea -- the building has been refashioned into something different, following a decade of reimagining by South Korean retail giant Shinsegae Group. According to the group, the building lives up to its new name, The Heritage, as a retail space that embodies Shinsegae's deft fusion of Korean commerce and culture in Myeong-dong, near its flagship department store. 'The space reflects our commitment to preserving Korean culture in a place where modern commerce has flourished,' said a Shinsegae official. "As the first Korean company to establish a department store in the country, we see this building as a powerful symbol that amplifies our efforts to promote Korean craftsmanship and heritage." The first encounter visitors have with The Heritage begins with none other than Chanel, which occupies the first and second floors of the building. Designed by New York-based architect Peter Marino, the boutique, befitting the concept of heritage, blends meticulous craftsmanship with a spirit of refined artistry. The Chanel store also has more than 70 pieces of artwork and furniture on display, accompanied by restored floral plaster reliefs on the ceiling. Deeper into the building, the group's vision of honoring the enduring legacy of the building's heritage comes into sharper focus. While the third floor is slated to open later this year, the fourth floor already hosts a museum. The museum presents digital archives and historical materials related to both the building and Korea's commercial history. In the adjacent gallery, visitors will find a photographic chronicle of the Namdaemun area from the 1930s to the 1950s and Shinsegae's cultural footprint in Korean commerce. The fifth floor is devoted to Korean culture and lifestyle, where a current exhibition explores the art of bojagi, or traditional Korean wrapping cloths, through the works of various artists. Sharing the space is a dessert salon offering traditional Korean snacks and tea. On the basement level, the building continues to bridge tradition and luxury. Alongside upscale lifestyle brands is a curated craft gift shop featuring a diverse array of Korean artisanal works, from fabric and metal crafts to fine ceramics. The group explained that the building's legacy and its location in Myeong-dong, a district long favored by visitors from overseas, especially lend weight to Shinsegae's mission of presenting Korean culture to an international audience. Officially designated as the 71st Tangible Cultural Heritage of the Seoul Metropolitan Government in 1989, the building carries both historical and cultural significance. Shinsegae worked to restore 90 percent of the structure to its original condition through consultations with the National Heritage Committee after acquiring the building in 2015, which had, most recently been used by Standard Chartered Bank Korea. 'We envision our department store in Myeong-dong as a converging point where the joy of tourism and shopping meets the depth of culture,' the company official said. minmin@
