OMO Ranger's Neighborhood Tour
During my stay at OMO5, I participated in a local tour called the "Neighborhood Tour" led by the OMO Rangers, the staff known for their expertise in the area.
Blissful Girls' Trip in the Neighborhood: OMO5 Tokyo Otsuka produced by Hoshino Resorts
The tour was titled "Otsuka is full of charms! Neighborhood tour"（大塚の魅力が満載！大塚オタクと行くご近所巡り）
While visiting the shopping district, we had the opportunity to shop around, ask for recommended photo spots, and inquire about recommended dinner restaurants and shopping spots.
In this blog post, I would like to share my memories and the wonderful souvenirs I discovered during the tour.
1. Sen'nari Monaka Honpo
The first place we visited was Senn'nari Monaka Honpo. This shop is known for its an-butter monaka, a type of dorayaki (a traditional Japanese dessert) without the sweet bean paste filling. It is also called "Japanese Pancake" and was featured on a TV program hosted by Matsuko-DX.
As most of the products were sold out by the afternoon, I revisited the shop the next day to get some souvenirs for home.
The unique shaped monaka was adorable and heartwarming. I thought it would be a perfect farewell gift for my friends in Japan.
They kindly served tea and the monaka skins, so I took a short break there.
2. A Spectacular Spot Where Skytree and Yamanote Line Converge
During the walk, I was introduced to a unique spot where we can enjoy the breathtaking view of Tokyo. Even though the weather was a bit gloomy that day, you could still see the beauty of the surroundings. It was the kind of place we would normally pass by without noticing, but thanks to the OMO Rangers, I got to explore it.
3. Yajima-en Tea Shop
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Lastly, we visited a tea shop called Yajimaen. The shop owner, Mr. Yajima, who is a great storyteller, warmly welcomed us.
Their specialty is the Green Tea de Earl Grey, a drink made by infusing Earl Grey tea with Japanese green tea, resulting in a refreshing flavor. You can enjoy it at the OMO5 Otsuka café, and it's even available as an all-you-can-drink option during breakfast.
Since the tea bags are dry and easy to carry, they seem like a great souvenir for my friends studying abroad in Malaysia. Plus, if there are any leftovers, I can enjoy them myself.
Souvenir Dilemma for Study Abroad
I had a previous experience where I failed in choosing a gift when I gave a Daiso (a popular 100-yen store in Japan) fan to my host family in New Zealand, only to find out they already had an exquisite fan left behind by a previous Chinese exchange student.
This time, I am going to a country where there is also a Daiso, so I thought I should avoid Japanese goods from Daiso.
Besides, I have a preference for products with stories behind them.
And isn't it amazing to hear stories directly from the shopkeepers?
I'm not sure if Yajimaen sells their products on Amazon, which would be convenient even after going abroad. But I plan to buy some before leaving Japan, considering the limitations on bringing items with me and checking the import regulations.
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