For more than 1,270 years, Kanda Myojin Shrine has protected Tokyo’s core. From Tokugawa Ieyasu’s prayers at Sekigahara to its role at the demon gate of Edo Castle, it has withstand earthquakes, firebombing, and the burden of vengeful spirits. Today, merchants, anime fans, and entrepreneurs gather under its bright gates, where tradition meets modernity and the city’s veil feels thin.

Nezu Shrine combines storm-god mythology, Edo-period architecture, and natural beauty in Tokyo’s historic Bunkyo ward. Founded by Prince Yamato Takeru and relocated by the Tokugawa shogunate, this rare survivor of war and fire features Tokyo’s last two-story Romon Gate, sacred azalea gardens, and red torii paths leading to Inari foxes. A peaceful sanctuary filled with history, ritual, and hidden power.

Just off Shinjuku Sanchome’s C5 exit, Chakura Curry Tokyo is a hidden six-seat counter operated by a solo chef with a talent for soulful, spice-rich dishes. Coconut shrimp, mango chutney, turmeric rice, and pickled beets come together in a dish that defies genres and sparks wanderlust and quiet introspection. With self-serve sparkling water and posters encouraging travel around the world, this unassuming second-floor spot attracts Tokyo’s in-the-know creatives for good reason

Tucked behind Ueno Zoo is Toshogu Shrine, a rare survivor from the Edo period enshrining Tokugawa Ieyasu. From dragon legends to a 600-year-old ginkgo, this golden sanctuary withstands earthquakes, war, and modern change. Intricate carvings, spiritual silence, and the mythic past come together behind its gilded doors. A living relic of Japan’s shogunate history hidden in plain sight.

Toeizan Kan’ei-ji in Ueno Park was once one of Edo’s most influential religious centers—built to shield the city from evil spirits and serve the Tokugawa shogunate. Although much of it was destroyed in the Boshin War, the remaining hall, mausoleums, and scattered relics whisper of a vanished political and spiritual empire. Surrounded by cicadas and silence, this hidden temple still breathes history into Tokyo’s busiest park.

Nestled in the quiet streets of Sasazuka, Mils Tacos delivers authentic Mexican flavors to Tokyo with giant burritos, bold nachos, and a cantina-style warmth that feels like home. Chef Roy’s mission is rooted in memory, family, and a love for the true taste of Mexico—no shortcuts, no imitations. This is where locals and expats gather over Jarritos and Tecate, savoring each bite as if sharing a well-kept secret.

Tucked into Ikebukuro’s fringe, Ha Ha is a five-table pasta joint where crab cream pasta makes you go “ah-ha!” One man runs the whole show—cooking, serving, and keeping the jazz flowing while you toast your own bread. Cracked crab, rich cream, and no pressure to leave. The kind of place that doesn’t try to impress—because it doesn’t need to.

Step into a different kind of journey with MK—Japan’s most refined private charter experience. From white-gloved drivers trained like pilots to luxury vehicles gliding through sacred temples and neon skylines, every ride is tailored to you. Discover Japan’s hidden gems with effortless comfort, local expertise, and unmatched hospitality. MK isn’t just transport—it’s the start of your story.

Azabujuban might be best known for its boutiques and designer dogs, but tucked between the luxury is a taste of New York—wax-paper-wrapped bacon, egg & cheese sandwiches and foldable pepperoni slices served with swagger. In this MK Presents dispatch, a Queens-born writer explores two Tokyo spots that channel NYC energy through simulated nostalgia, media-fueled devotion, and a surprising attention to greasy detail.

At 634 meters, Tokyo Skytree isn’t just the tallest tower in Japan—it’s a monument to engineering, resilience, and the high-definition spirit of Tokyo itself.

Explore Hakone's history and spirituality. Discover the spiritual power of Hakone, and immerse yourself in its rich history!

Trattoria L’Insieme whisks you to old-world Italy with crackling opera, warm service, and focaccia so good, you'll dream about it.

Chianti in Sasazuka serves unforgettable Italian with warm hospitality, legendary salad dressing, and dishes that linger in memory.

A slow, mindful day in Kamakura—Great Buddha, empanadas, a seaside sunset, and the luxury of taking it all in, effortlessly.

Glide through Nikko in an MK charter, bypassing travel woes to explore Toshogu Shrine’s grandeur—where history, myth, and luxury meet.

Shumai Rumba delivers championship-tier flavor in a retro, pro-wrestling-inspired haven in Nishi-Ogikubo. A meal worth a rematch.

St. Mary’s Cathedral Tokyo: A fusion of faith and futurism, where Metabolism architecture meets divine light in a striking steel sanctuary.

Tokyo’s burger scene is a showdown of East and West—where the samurai teaches the cowboy a trick or two. Saddle up and prepare for the beef.

Discover the rich history of Sensoji Temple, Tokyo’s oldest Buddhist site, a spiritual icon blending ancient traditions with modern energy.

Discover the Museum of Zen Culture and History in Tokyo, showcasing Soto Zen’s rich heritage, Dogen’s life, and timeless philosophy.