When visiting Tokyo Skytree, don’t just take photos and check in—be sure not to miss the shopping mall on the first floor. In addition to all kinds of popular brands, it has many Japan-exclusive products and distinctive shops, with plenty to browse, from souvenirs and anime merchandise to household goods, food, and desserts. Some items are limited editions that are hard to find elsewhere. If you want to take your time hunting for treasures, set aside some extra time so you can really enjoy exploring!
TOKYO Solamachi | Review by Linda Liao
Other Reviews by Linda Liao
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KITTE
Unique shops and eateries line this commercial complex, managed by Japan Post. The atrium on the first floor is striking with its open space, from which you can overlook the shops on each floor.
若有經過東京車站，不妨也到旁邊的 KITTE 丸之內逛逛~這座複合商業設施整體設計很有現代感，裡面也精選了不少伴手禮與美食餐廳。這次特別帶回同事推薦的治一郎年輪蛋糕，層層堆疊的蛋糕體細緻柔軟，口感濕潤又綿密，帶著淡淡奶油與雞蛋香氣，甜度恰到好處，不會讓人覺得膩口。每一口都能感受到細緻的層次，搭配咖啡或茶都很適合。
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Houzan Sake Brewery
Houzan Sake Brewery, established in the 18th year of the Meiji era (1885), is known for its "Daiginjo Houzan", which won the Gold Prize at the "Spring National Variety Appraisal Meeting". The brewery is located along the route connecting Iwamuro Onsen, known as the "back parlor of Niigata", and Yahiko Shrine, proud of its status as "Echigo Ichinomiya". The brewery is known for its innovative approach to sake brewing, not only using popular Yamada Nishiki rice and locally grown Niigata rice "Koshi Tanrei", but also taking on the challenge of making sake with Koshihikari, a type of rice usually considered unsuitable for sake brewing.
I tried sake made by Houzan Sake Brewery at an izakaya. It was crisp and delicate, with a subtle rice aroma, gentle sweetness, and a smooth, rounded mouthfeel. The finish was clean and long, showcasing the pure flavor of sake brewed with Niigata’s high-quality rice. This experience wasn’t just about enjoying a good glass of sake—it also made me more curious about Niigata’s sake-brewing culture. The next time I travel to Niigata, I’d love to visit the brewery in person to learn about the sake-making process, from quality rice and koji to fermentation and brewing, and to gain a deeper understanding of Houzan Sake Brewery’s story and craftsmanship.
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SANRIO CAFE Ikebukuro Shop
In this cafe, you can enjoy their original menu which brings the adorable world of the Sanrio characters to life.
Sanrio fans shouldn’t miss SANRIO CAFE in Ikebukuro Sunshine City💕 Popular characters like the adorable Hello Kitty, Cinnamoroll, and Kuromi join you for a relaxing afternoon tea. Every corner is perfect for taking photos and checking in, and the latte art is so creative. The character designs are so cute that you almost won’t want to drink them!
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