Exploring Azabudai Hills Central Square & Carmen Gastrobar in Tokyo
Siva McAteer • July 26, 2025
Have you ever been to a gastrobar?
๐ทโจ If not, let me take you along on our latest Tokyo adventure, where we stumbled upon one of the most unique dining experiences at Carmen, a cutting-edge gastrobar located in the stunning Azabudai Hills Tower Plaza.
Getting Lost in Luxury at Azabudai Hills
Azabudai Hills is a high-end shopping and dining complex that’s so massive you could easily spend hours wandering—and, yes, we did exactly that! This upscale destination is surrounded by some of Tokyo’s most luxurious hotels, making it a hotspot for elite travelers, celebrities, and anyone looking to enjoy the finer things in life.
Just outside the shopping center is the Azabudai Hills Central Green Plaza. With its futuristic design and lush greenery, it’s one of the most Instagrammable spots in Tokyo. If you’re searching for places to relax or take memorable photos in the city, this plaza is a must-visit.
Our Culinary Adventure at Carmen Gastrobar
After exploring (and admittedly getting lost for about an hour), we decided to refuel and, by chance, found Carmen Gastrobar. Let me tell you—this was no ordinary restaurant. Gastrobars are known for combining the creativity of fine dining with the casual vibe of a bar, and Carmen did not disappoint.
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We watched in awe as the chefs prepared everything right in front of us, showcasing their culinary artistry and attention to detail. Every dish was not just food—it was an experience. The flavors were rich, bold, and absolutely unforgettable. If you ever find yourself near Azabudai Hills, do yourself a favor and stop by Carmen. You’ll thank me later!
Need-to-Know Details
Carmen Gastrobar
๐ Address: 1-3-1 Azabudai, Minato-ku, Tokyo, Azabudai Hills Tower Plaza 3F
Azabudai Hills Central Square
๐ Address: 1 Chome-3-7 Azabudai, Minato City, Tokyo 106-0041, Japan
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What’s Next?
Our journey through Tokyo is just getting started! Next up: TeamLab Borderless, one of Tokyo’s most popular immersive digital art museums. You won’t want to miss it!
#FoodFind #Gastrobar #AzabudaiHills #HiddenGemTokyo #FunThingsToDo #TokyoTravel #JapanFoodie #UGCCreator
Looking for the best place to take a Tokyo Tower photo without spending half your day waiting in line? I’ve got you covered! Hi, I’m Siva McAteer—travel blogger, content creator, and certified travel agent. My husband and I are exploring Tokyo before heading off on our 12-day Celebrity Cruise, and one of my must-see stops was the iconic Tokyo Tower. Why Tokyo Tower is a Must-See Tokyo Tower isn’t just a broadcast tower—it’s a symbol of Japan’s post-war rebirth and one of the most Instagrammable landmarks in Tokyo. Standing tall with its Eiffel Tower-inspired design and striking orange and white colors, it’s a must for any Tokyo itinerary. Yesterday, we visited Shibuya Sky for the city views, so for this stop, I was all about the architecture and finding that perfect shot. I researched the “most popular” Tokyo Tower photo spot and decided to check it out. Big mistake! ๐
When we arrived, there was a line wrapping around the block just to snap a photo on a tiny staircase. Trust me—it wasn’t worth the wait.
Winner, winner, chicken dinner! ๐ Our Tokyo adventure just leveled up—we found our very first Japanese arcade, and it’s none other than the famous GiGO in Shinjuku. If you’ve never stepped inside a Japanese arcade, you’re in for a treat! GiGO, which stands for “Get into the Gaming Oasis,” is exactly that—a paradise for gamers, kids, and anyone who’s young at heart. Why GiGO is a Must-Visit in Shinjuku Japanese arcades are iconic, and GiGO takes things to the next level. Picture rows of bright, flashing machines, exciting prizes, and the sweet sound of people cheering when they win. From claw machines stacked with adorable kawaii plush toys to gachapon (gacha) machines that guarantee a prize every time, it’s the ultimate place to test your luck or just have some fun. The Claw Machine Challenge – Kawaii Pink Rabbit Edition I’m always up for a challenge (especially if there’s a cute prize involved). The real question was: How much am I willing to spend—and carry around with me all day? My winning strategy? Watch where other people are scoring prizes! After a few minutes of scouting, I spotted a claw machine where several players had won already. The prize? An irresistible Kawaii Pink Rabbit Plush Toy. I took my chance, and… success! ๐ Not only did I win, but I walked out with the cutest souvenir of the day. Not a Risk-Taker? Try Gachas Instead! If claw machines aren’t your thing, don’t worry. Gachas (coin-operated capsule toy machines) are everywhere inside GiGO. The best part? You always win something. Just pop in a few coins, twist the knob, and out comes a surprise capsule toy. It’s like a mini gift every time. Where to Find GiGO Shinjuku Address: GiGO Shinjuku Kabukicho Japan, ใ160-0021 Tokyo, Shinjuku City, Kabukicho, 1 Chome−21−1 ็ฌฌไบๆฑไบไผ้คจ ๏ผF If you’re looking for fun things to do in Tokyo, especially in Shinjuku, this arcade should be on your list. Whether you’re into gaming, collecting unique prizes, or just soaking in the lively atmosphere, GiGO is pure joy. So, what’s next on our Tokyo adventure? Stay tuned—because there’s always something exciting just around the corner!
When I daydream about Tokyo, my brain immediately jumps to neon lights, skyscrapers, and—of course—Godzilla roaring above the skyline. And guess what? That dream came to life in Shinjuku. Welcome to Shinjuku: Tokyo’s Ultimate Playground If you’re planning a trip to Japan, Shinjuku needs to be high on your list. This buzzing Tokyo neighborhood is packed—literally—with over 4,000 bars, restaurants, karaoke joints, clubs, and convenience stores. It’s like a mini city within a city. And yes, we saw that famous 3D cat billboard! Located near Shinjuku Station, this adorable illusionist feline pops out of the screen like it's watching over the bustling crowd. It’s a super cute and completely free photo op you have to see in person. Don Quijote Shinjuku Kabukicho: The Ultimate Treasure Hunt Let’s talk about Don Quijote (aka “Donki”)—a must-visit convenience store on steroids. This place is not your average corner shop. The Shinjuku Kabukicho location has five floors, including a basement, and it’s JAM-PACKED with everything from: Japanese snacks and candy ๐ฌ Souvenirs (great for your “I went to Japan” haul) ๐ Cosmetics and skincare ๐ Toys and quirky gadgets ๐งธ Even electronics and luxury items like designer bags! ๐ Pro tip: take your time here. It’s chaotic in the best way, and you’ll definitely uncover some hidden gems. ๐ Don Quijote Shinjuku Kabukicho Located on: Godzilla Road ๐บ Address: 1 Chome-16-5 Kabukicho, Shinjuku City, Tokyo 160-0021, Japan Meet Godzilla—For Free! Just steps from Don Quijote is one of the coolest free attractions in Tokyo: the life-sized Godzilla head perched on top of the Toho Building. Seriously, this thing is huge and makes for a legendary photo backdrop. But wait—it gets better. Every hour, on the hour from 12 PM to 8 PM, Godzilla comes to life during the “Awakening” event! You’ll hear the roar, see flashing lights, and feel like Tokyo’s most iconic kaiju is about to come crashing through the skyline. It’s part theme park, part movie magic, and completely unforgettable. ๐ Godzilla Head Located at: Shinjuku Toho Building ๐บ Address: 1 Chome-19 Kabukicho, Shinjuku City, Tokyo 160-0021, Japan Final Thoughts: Why Shinjuku Should Be on Every Tokyo Itinerary Whether you're a pop culture nerd, a foodie, a shopaholic, or just want to feel the electric pulse of Tokyo, Shinjuku delivers. Between the bright lights, the Don Quijote madness, and the roaring Godzilla spectacle, it’s a full-on sensory adventure. So grab your camera, your yen, and your sense of adventure—Shinjuku is calling.
Welcome back, fellow travelers and Tokyo dreamers! Okay—pause everything—because we have to talk about the 3D cat in Shinjuku. Yes, you read that right. There’s a giant, realistic 3D cat lounging, stretching, and meowing from a billboard in one of Tokyo’s busiest neighborhoods. And trust me, it’s every bit as magical, surreal, and kawaii as it sounds! What Is the 3D Cat in Shinjuku? The “3D Cat Shinjuku” is a viral digital billboard located at the Cross Shinjuku Vision building, right near the East Exit of Shinjuku Station. This eye-catching feline graces the corner of the building in full 3D glory, purring, yawning, and occasionally peeking curiously at the crowd below. It's not just a gimmick—it’s a legit work of digital art that stops people in their tracks. ๐ Exact Location: 1F-3F, Crossๆฐๅฎฟใใซ, 3 Chome-23-18, Shinjuku, 160-0022 Tokyo, Japan When Can You See It? The 3D cat animations run from 7:00 AM to 1:00 AM daily. So whether you're an early riser chasing sunrises or a night owl exploring Tokyo's neon nightlife, there’s a good chance you’ll catch a show. And if you miss one? No worries—just hang out nearby and another will be playing soon! Why It’s Worth the Stop Even though it’s technically “just a billboard,” this playful feline display is so much more than an ad. It’s a free attraction, an iconic photo-op, and honestly, a little piece of modern Tokyo magic. It’s one of those things that feels straight out of a sci-fi movie but is completely real and happening right above your head! My Experience Seeing it online is cool, sure—but seeing it in person? Unforgettable. I was totally mesmerized! It was one of those bucket list items I had been dreaming about, and crossing it off felt amazing. The realism, the detail, the unexpected charm of it all—it’s just so super cool! Add It to Your Tokyo Itinerary ๐พ If you’re planning a trip to Japan, make sure to carve out time for Shinjuku, and specifically, for this 3D cat experience. With so many free things to do in Tokyo, this one tops the list for being creative, memorable, and completely unique. Have you seen the 3D cat in Shinjuku yet? Let me know in the comments or share your photos—I’d love to see them! Until next adventure, ๐งณ๐พ
If you ever find yourself wandering through the buzzing heart of Shinjuku, Tokyo, do yourself a favor and make your way to Omoide Yokocho — also lovingly known as Memory Lane. This narrow, lantern-lit alley is like stepping into a time capsule. Think post-war Japan, cozy food stalls, the delicious smell of grilled skewers in the air, and an atmosphere that’s both nostalgic and incredibly warm. Step Into the Past at Omoide Yokocho Tucked away in a corner of Shinjuku, Omoide Yokocho is a must-see for foodies and cultural explorers alike. It’s famous for its authentic vibes, jam-packed izakayas (Japanese pubs), and the mouthwatering scent of yakitori (grilled chicken skewers) sizzling over charcoal. The alley is lined with tiny eateries, each offering something unique — from savory ramen to classic Japanese comfort foods. This is local Tokyo dining at its finest. It’s the kind of place where you squeeze into a seat, rub elbows with strangers, and leave full — both in belly and spirit. ๐ Address: 1 Chome-2 Nishishinjuku, Shinjuku City, Tokyo 160-0023, Japan Fast Forward to the Future — Hello, Giant Cat! After soaking up the old-school vibes of Omoide Yokocho, we hit fast forward and jumped straight into the future by heading to the Cross Shinjuku Vision building. If you haven’t seen this yet, it’s home to one of Tokyo’s most famous residents: a massive 3D cat! When we stopped by, this giant feline was napping (yes, even virtual cats need rest), but stick around — the full animation show is a must-watch and changes throughout the day. It’s such a fun contrast to the retro charm of Memory Lane, and it perfectly captures the blend of old and new that Tokyo does so well. Final Thoughts Whether you’re chasing history through the alleyways of Omoide Yokocho or marveling at high-tech wonders like the Cross Shinjuku Cat, this part of Tokyo is bursting with unforgettable experiences. If you’re planning a trip to Japan, make sure to add this stop to your Tokyo itinerary. Great food, good vibes, and a little cat magic? Yes, please! Stay tuned for the next adventure! โ๏ธ
Yes—we finally made it to Shinjuku , and you know what time it is… RAMEN TIME! ๐ฅข First thing in the morning, before all the sightseeing and adventuring, our stomachs were growling, and I was on a mission for a hot, slurp-worthy bowl of noodles. We did the responsible thing—Googled some top ramen spots. But guess what? The lines were crazy long—we’re talking out-the-door, tourist-packed, hangry-level long. ๐ฉ So we made the executive decision to skip the lines and keep it moving. That’s when we stumbled upon Fukushin , and let me just say: what a win! ๐ Fukushin is actually a popular Chinese restaurant chain in Japan, known for its delicious ramen and wallet-friendly set meals. Yup, affordable AND tasty. Double win. Oh—and did I mention they had cold beer on the menu? That sealed the deal. ๐บ The vibe was super relaxed, totally local, and had this cool old-school diner energy. The service was quick and polite, the place was sparkling clean, and most importantly, we weren’t paying crazy tourist prices. If you're ever in Shinjuku and craving a no-fuss, satisfying ramen experience without the wait, Fukushin is your spot. Check out the address below and save it for your foodie map! ๐บ๏ธ ๐ Fukushin Japan, ใ160-0023 Tokyo, Shinjuku City, Nishishinjuku, 7 Chome−9−14 ็ฌฌไธ ๆฑๆธ้ใใซ ๏ผF ๏ปฟ "Itadakimasu!" ๐
As a tourist in Japan, a night in Tokyo just isn't complete without a stop at the iconic convenience store we all know and love—7-Eleven. But forget what you know about 7-Elevens back home—Japanese 7-Elevens are next level, especially when it comes to late-night snacks, desserts, and drinks that feel like a mini food adventure. ๐โจ After a full day of exploring the bustling city streets of Tokyo and a full Indian meal at the Mother India, we headed back to our hotel (Hotel Monterey Hanzomon) but made one very important stop along the way: the local 7-Eleven. Because let’s be real—what’s a Tokyo evening without a snack haul? So what did we grab during our latest 7-Eleven haul in Japan? Let me take you on a quick taste tour: ๐ฅค Brian’s Beverage & Dessert Line-Up The River of Life drink – Sounds poetic, right? Not sure if it gave us eternal wisdom, but hey, points for the cool name! Ice + Moringa & Aloe Drink – Brian’s first sip got a dramatic “Oh, that smells horrible!” but it turned out to be his solution drink of choice. The flavors are… an acquired taste. ๐
Pucchin Pudding – Also known as Putchin pudding, this dessert is super popular in Japan. It’s kind of like flan, but with a fun twist—it plops out with a satisfying sound when flipped upside down. That must be where it gets its name! “It smells like flan... and it’s not too sweet!” —Siva, Dessert Connoisseur ๐ฆ Matcha Lovers, Rejoice! I had my eye on the Häagen-Dazs Green Tea (Matcha) Berry Ice Cream Sandwich. It had a beautiful green chocolate crust, smooth ice cream inside, and a crunchy cone outside—basically a full-texture experience in every bite. If you’re a fan of matcha, this is a must-try. We also grabbed a Moringa & Aloe Ice Cream Bar, which turned out to be surprisingly tasty once you get past the name. ๐ Japan really knows how to combine unique ingredients into refreshing desserts. ๐๏ธ Why 7-Eleven in Japan is a Tourist Must-Do Whether you're craving a late-night sweet fix or just want to see how convenience stores in Japan completely outshine their Western counterparts, 7-Eleven in Tokyo is a must-visit. With premium desserts like Pucchin Pudding, inventive ice cream flavors like matcha berry, and drinks like Moringa & Aloe, there’s always something new and intriguing to try. And the best part? It’s just steps away from most hotels—including ours, the lovely Hotel Monterey Hanzomon. ๐ Japan Travel Tips: Always have yen or a card that works in Japan (7-Eleven ATMs are super tourist-friendly). Don’t be afraid to try things that sound weird—you might discover a new favorite. Grab a drink + dessert combo and have your own taste test night in the hotel!
Are you hungry yet? Because we definitely were after a long, adventure-filled day in Tokyo! ๐ As part of our 4-day stay before hopping on our 12-day cruise, we’ve been exploring all kinds of eats — and tonight’s dinner took an unexpected (but delicious!) twist. While heading back to our hotel in an Uber, something colorful and cozy caught our eye… Mother India, nestled in the Hanzomon area of Tokyo. We couldn't resist! We made a quick decision to hop out and give it a try — and wow, we’re glad we did. We ordered a spread of Indian appetizers, and let me just say — the shrimp dishes were out-of-this-world flavorful. ๐ฅ From savory spices to perfectly cooked textures, every bite was a win. Indian food in Japan? Don’t knock it till you try it! Mother India gets a big, enthusiastic two thumbs up from me. ๐๐ But guess what? The night’s not over yet — we still had more snacking to do before calling it a day. So don’t forget to come back tomorrow to see how we wrapped up the night! Spoiler alert: it’s going to be delicious. ๐ฝ๏ธโจ ๐ Mother India - Hanzomon, Tokyo Address: 1 Chome-3-7 Kojimachi, Chiyoda City, Tokyo 102-0083, Japan
Welcome back, travel fam! It’s Siva McAteer here—travel blogger, explorer of all things awesome, and your guide to unforgettable adventures. Today, we’re taking you sky-high above Tokyo, where I had the most epic bird’s-eye view at none other than Shibuya Sky. ๐โจ ๐ From Ground to Sky—An Experience to Remember We made it to Shibuya Sky, and let me tell you—it’s not just an observation deck, it’s a whole experience! From the second you step into that elevator, you’re transported into another world. They really know how to build the suspense! Lights, sound, and anticipation—it's all part of the fun. ๐ข Before you head outside to the open-air deck, you can store your loose items in the free lockers. That’s right—no wind blowing away your hat or sunglasses while you're trying to soak in the view. Thoughtful, right? ๐๏ธ Panoramic Views Like You’ve Never Seen We took the escalator up—yes, even the escalator has clear views of the city—and were welcomed with breathtaking 360-degree views of Tokyo. While some people recommend visiting at sunset, I loved that we came during the daytime. The city felt alive, and I could see every teeny-tiny detail from up high—rooftop gardens, trains weaving between buildings, and of course, the legendary Shibuya Scramble Crossing down below (as promised)! ๐ A Global Gathering Spot Up there, you’ll hear languages from all over the world as travelers gather to take it all in. It’s one of those rare places where you just feel how big the world is—and how small we all are in the best possible way. ๐ Honestly, Shibuya Sky is a must-do for anyone visiting Tokyo. Whether you're into photography, sightseeing, or just soaking in some peace with a view, this is the spot. ๐งโ๏ธ๐ธ ๐ก Travel Tips: ๐๏ธ Book online ahead of time—tickets can sell out fast! โฐ Daytime visits = all the details. Sunset = all the romance. ๐ Located at Shibuya Scramble Square—just a short walk from the Hachiko Statue. ๐๏ธ Stop by the nearby souvenir shops—yes, I grabbed a magnet…again. ๐ ๐ Final Thoughts Being up there reminded me how important it is to just pause and appreciate the moment. Life is busy. Tokyo is busier. But Shibuya Sky? That’s where you stop, breathe, and take it all in. Thanks for coming along! Hit that subscribe button and join me next time—because there’s still so much more of Japan to explore. Until then, Siva ๐๐
Isn’t it wild how much the scenery can change with just a 20-minute walk in Tokyo? One minute you’re standing in a peaceful shrine surrounded by trees, and the next—you’re smack in the middle of neon lights, arcade sounds, and a sea of people. Welcome to Shibuya , baby! ๐ ๐ฆ Shibuya Scramble Crossing: Organized Chaos at Its Best First up, we arrived at the Shibuya Scramble Crossing—aka the world’s busiest pedestrian intersection. If you’ve ever seen videos of thousands of people crossing the street all at once like a perfectly choreographed dance, this is the place. The crosswalk goes in every direction and when the light turns green, it's like a human tidal wave! Definitely a must-see Tokyo experience. ๐ ๐ก Travel Tip: Don’t forget to look up! Shibuya is famous for its 3D billboards, and they are absolutely mind-blowing. These futuristic advertisements pop right out of the screen—no glasses required. The Japanese really know how to level up the art of advertising. ๐ถ Next Stop: Hachiko Statue – The Goodest Boy in Japan No trip to Shibuya would be complete without paying a visit to the Hachiko Statue. This statue honors the famously loyal Akita dog who waited at the train station for his owner every day—even after he passed away. ๐ฅบ It’s a heartwarming story and a super popular tourist stop, so be prepared to wait in line if you want a photo with Hachiko. But I'm not sure it's worth it. ๐พ Shibuya Akita Store – Cuteness Overload! While waiting for our Shibuya Sky entrance time, we popped into the adorable Shibuya Akita Store located just down the hall. If you’re an Akita fan—or just love quirky souvenirs—this place is a must. From plushies to keychains to themed snacks, they have everything Akita-themed you can imagine. My go-to souvenir? Magnets, of course! ๐งฒ And don’t skip the life-sized Akita statue—perfect for a quick and cuddly photo op. ๐ Shibuya Sky – Book Ahead! We wrapped up our visit with a reservation for Shibuya Sky, the city’s famous rooftop observation deck. It offers jaw-dropping panoramic views of Tokyo—including a bird’s-eye view of the Scramble Crossing in all its chaotic glory. โ ๏ธ Heads-up: If you show up too early for your ticket time, you won’t be allowed in, so make sure to book your tickets online in advance and time your visit just right. Final Thoughts Shibuya is one of those places that captures the energy, technology, and heart of modern Tokyo all in one place. Whether you're here to people-watch, snap a selfie with Hachiko, or shop till you drop, there’s no shortage of things to do in Shibuya. Thanks for exploring with me! I’m Siva McAteer, travel lover, content creator, and your go-to guide for uncovering the coolest places in Japan and beyond. Stay tuned as we head to even more unforgettable Tokyo spots!
