The Korean reality show Single’s Inferno has captivated us with its unique concept, glamorous singles, and breathtaking shooting locations. Marooned on a deserted island, contestants strive to find love to escape the “Inferno” and spend time with their chosen partner in “Paradise”, all against the backdrop of some of the most picturesque locations in Incheon. If you are planning a trip anytime soon, Single’s Inferno Season 3 shooting locations may just be the perfect travel inspiration for you.

Season 3 of Single’s Inferno introduces some changes from its predecessors, with Season 2 fan-favourite Dex, also known as Kim Jin-young, making a return, but this time taking on the role of a host.

Single’s Inferno Season 3: Explore the enchanting shooting locations in Incheon

Tucked away in the ocean surrounding South Korea, the mysterious “Inferno” and “Paradise” from the show may seem worlds away from civilisation. However, the truth is that the Single’s Inferno shooting locations are not too distant from Seoul, just an hour away from South Korea’s capital.

The island, known as Saseungbong-do, is located off the coast of Incheon, a transportation hub home to the world-famous Incheon International Airport that serves Seoul. K-Drama fans will recognise Incheon as the backdrop for several iconic K-Dramas like Squid Games, The Glory and Crash Landing On You.

The “Inferno” portrayed in the show is an uninhabited island located in Jawol-myeon, Ongjin County, Incheon. This privately owned island has also been featured in other reality shows like Running Man, 2 Days & 1 Night, and Dad! Where Are We Going? Locally known as Sado, the island features a 4-km-long and 2-km-wide beach, accessible via a fishing boat, and is an off-beat destination in Incheon. Ideal for swimming, fishing and camping, visitors are required to pay an admission fee of KRW 10,000 (approximately HKD 60).

As authentically deserted as the “Inferno” is, the “Paradise” is equally lavish and glamorous in real life. Single’s Inferno Season 3 reveals that Grand Hyatt Jeju serves as the “Paradise” for couples. This luxurious five-star hotel in Jeju is supposedly the largest and highest landmark in the city, representing the largest Grand Hyatt in the Asia Pacific.

Previous seasons featured the ultra-luxurious five-star resort Paradise City on Yeongjong Island in Incheon, adjacent to the Incheon International Airport. Spanning over 300,000 sqm, the resort is a favourite among Korean stars like Blackpink member Rosé, Min Hyorin and Big Bang’s Taeyang.

Incheon International Airport, the main airport, serves as your gateway to the city. After exploring the shooting locations of Single’s Inferno in Incheon, take some time to roam around the city and immerse yourself in the beauty of Incheon’s tourist attractions.

Best places to visit and things to do in Incheon

Yeongjong Sea Side Rail Bike

Set along the coast of Yeongjongdo Island, the Seaside Rail Bike promises a delightful adventure for families and friends. Embark on a picturesque 5.6-km round-trip journey that offers scenic vistas from Wolmido Island to the Incheondaegyo Bridge, showcasing the beauty of the West Sea of South Korea. Choose from a two-seater, three-seater, or four-seater rail bike, with tickets starting from KRW 24,000 (HKD 144).

Also read – K-Talk: Handy Travel Phrases For Travelling Across Korea

Incheon Chinatown

As the only Chinatown in South Korea, Incheon’s Chinatown stands out as a must-visit destination. Immerse yourself in Chinese flavours and culture, exploring numerous Chinese restaurants and businesses. The unique blend of Chinese and Korean traditions makes Incheon Chinatown particularly appealing to food enthusiasts, offering the chance to savour famous Chinese-Korean fusion dishes like tangsuyuk and jajangmyeon.

Wolmido Island

For a dose of childlike fun and adventure, a visit to Wolmido Island is a perfect addition to your Incheon travel itinerary. The Wolmi Amusement Park is spread across the island, featuring several exhilarating roller coasters and providing panoramic views of the ocean. Wolmido makes for an ideal weekend destination from Seoul and Incheon, offering luxury hotels, cafes, restaurants and lively avenues where with entertaining live performances.

Incheon’s beautiful parks

Explore some of the most captivating and breathtaking parks that perfectly showcase the natural beauty of Incheon.

Incheon Grand Park

Escape to Incheon Grand Park, the only large-scale natural green park in the city, surrounded by lush greenery, Gwanmosan Mountain, and Sangasan Mountain. The park has several botanical gardens and even a zoo!

Songdo Central Park

Check out Songdo Central Park on the man-made island of Songdo, where modern architecture harmonises with nature and water. It is an ideal spot for engaging in water activities.

Also read – Love K-dramas? You Can Actually Visit These Shooting Locations!

Jayu Park

Also known as Freedom Park, Jayu Park is the first “Western-style” park in South Korea, offering a chance to learn about local history amid thick forests.

Songwol-dong Fairytale Village

Experience the charming transformation of the old village of Songwol-dong into a fairytale village. This quirky and fun tourist attraction in Incheon tells stories through vibrant colours, depicting the adventures of classic Korean and Western tales on its walls. It is an Instagram-worthy place, especially for families with kids.

Jeondeungsa Temple

Immerse yourself in the cultures, history, and traditions of Korea at Jeondeungsa Temple on Ganghwa Island. A part of the Samnangseong Fortress, legend suggests that it was built by the three sons of Dangun, the leader of the first kingdom of Korea. This temple is a fine example of traditional Korean architecture from the mid-Joseon dynasty. Along the walls, you’ll find the names of soldiers who fought against the French Navy, serving as a poignant sign of prayer.

Also check – Some Of The Most Beautiful Places To Visit In South Korea

Chojijin Fortress

Explore another breathtaking historical monument in Incheon, the Choijijin Fortress. Constructed in 1655 on Ganghwa Island, the fortress served as a defence against attacks from the ocean. Chojijin Fortress witnessed several wars against invasions from Japan and America. Today, remnants of the fortress remain, eloquently narrating the history that unfolded within its mighty walls.

G-Tower

Visit the heart of commercial Incheon, G-Tower, offering some of the most amazing views of the city. Located in Songdo, this 150 m tall skyscraper houses the IFEZ Observatory on the 33rd floor. Bask in the glory of the city and spend time around G-Tower to experience the metropolitan lifestyle of Incheon.

The best time to visit Incheon

The best time to explore the city and tick off items from your Incheon bucket list is during Spring and Autumn. From March to May and September to November, you can enjoy pleasant weather, inviting you to bask in the sun and enjoy the outdoors.

(All currency conversion was done at the time of writing.)

(Feature image credit: @netflixkcontent/Instagram)

Related: 10 Stunning BTS Locations In South Korea That ARMY Must Visit!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

– What family-friendly activities are available in Incheon?
Incheon offers a range of family-friendly activities, including riding the Yeongjong Sea Side Rail Bike, enjoying Wolmido Island, exploring Incheon Chinatown, visiting beautiful parks, experiencing the enchanting Songwol-dong Fairy Tale Village, savouring views from the G-Tower, and delving into the history at Chojijin Fortress and Jeondeungsa Temple.

– What outdoor activities are popular in Incheon?
Popular outdoor activities in Incheon include spending time in Songdo Central Park and Incheon Grand Park, having fun at the amusement park on Wolmido Island, riding the Yeongjong Sea Side Rail Bike, and exploring the Songwol-dong Fairy Tale Village.

– What is the best time to visit Incheon for outdoor activities?
The best time to visit Incheon is from March to May and September to November. The weather is quite pleasant in Spring and Autumn, making it a great time for outdoor activities

Across the globe, Christmas is synonymous with sky-high Balsam Fir trees flaunting their festive baubles, a mountain of gifts ready to delight, freshly baked gingerbread, and greeting Father Christmas. However, for a Christmas celebration that puts a spin on traditional customs, turn to Japan. Primarily a Shinto and Buddhist country, Japan has minimal religious ties to the festival. With some customs borrowed from the West, and some brewed within the country, Christmas in Japan promises a unique spin on the candy cane festival: one that is laced with gigantic winter illuminations, snow-kissed landscapes, J-Pop Christmas music, and the traditional Japanese Christmas cake (kurisumasu keki).

Celebrations with a twist: Popular Christmas traditions in Japan

In Japan, the traditional stuffed turkey, masked potatoes, and cranberry sauce are replaced by sumptuous fried chicken. Conceived in the 1970s, the popular slogan ‘Kentucky for Christmas’ and the widely sold ‘party buckets’ have continued to captivate the masses. Every year, almost 3.6 million Japanese families head to Kentucky Fried Chicken (KFC) to get their meals. Owing to the high demand, some locals even place orders for the Special Christmas Menu as long as six weeks in advance!

Next, people in Japan swear by their kurisumasu keki, a Christmas cake sold on almost every street corner during the holiday season. This sponge cake filled with whipped cream and topped with strawberries is deemed a sign of prosperity, reflecting Japan’s rise from the ruins of World War II. Additionally, the country revels in hyperbolic illuminations smearing malls, restaurants, and public spaces. Lastly, Japan’s numerous theme parks, including Tokyo Disney Resort and Osaka Universal Studios Japan, transform into winter wonderlands.

Deck the halls, trim the tree: Best places to witness Christmas in Japan

Hokkaido — for a white Christmas

Snowball the festive fun at Hokkaido, a literal winter wonderland. Explore the 43rd Sapporo White Illumination (November 22, 2023, to March 14, 2024), featuring scintillating illuminations, Christmas food, and ornaments. Witness unmatched ski landscapes by checking into Sapporo Teine or Sapporo Kokusai Ski Resort. Savour the Hokkaido-special Asahikawa Ramen and Donburi or try ice fishing at the frozen Barato River.

Head to the Shiroi Koibito Park to enjoy the magic of Christmas with your family. Shiroi Koibito, a popular cookie brand, pioneers this chocolate-and-sweets-themed park, which becomes merrier during the holiday season. For a romantic celebration with your beloved, head to the storybook town of Otaru, where the whimsical drizzle of snow, Sakaimachi shopping street, and heartwarming Christmas decorations throughout the township make it an amorous haven.

Tokyo — Disneyland, Christmas markets, and show-stopping illuminations

Celebrating Christmas in Tokyo? Indulge in the Christmas-themed rides and festive attractions at Tokyo Disneyland, visit the Midtown Christmas Event (November 16 to December 25, 2023), flaunting illuminations and an ice rink at Tokyo Midtown, and hit up the Roppongi Hills for seasonal illuminations and a buzzing Christmas Market (November 25 to December 25, 2023). The Tokyo Christmas Market (November 23 to December 25, 2023), supported by German Tourism and the German Embassy, brings a slice of Europe to the city and enchants with hot chocolate, beer, live performances, a choir from Germany, handmade decorations, and much more.

For the choicest of winter illuminations, head to Omotesando, Shinjuku, Yomiuriland Jewellumination, and Shibuya Ao no Dokutsu. Other Japanese cities famed for their winter illuminations include Sendai and Tochigi.

Related – These are the most beautiful places to explore in Japan!

Kobe — German-style Christmas markets, skiing, and ice skating

The Kobe Christmas itinerary is incomplete without a visit to the Kobe Nunobiki Herb Garden, a botanical garden on the slopes of Mount Rokko ornamented with Christmas decor throughout the holiday season. The garden also hosts the German-style Kobe Christmas Market in Japan (November 11 to December 25, 2023), featuring over 50 stalls with cakes, drinks, and scintillating decor.

Elevate the holiday festivities by ice skating at Port Island, skiing in the Rokko mountains, and attending the Kobe Luminarie (January 19 to January 28, 2024), an annual light festival that pays homage to the victims of the Great Hanshin earthquake.

Shirakawago — Winter Light-Up Festival 2023

Tip-toe over Shirakawago’s fleecy blanket of snow for a dreamy Christmas. The quaint village is home to Gassho-zukuri (hands in prayer) style farmhouses, which get covered in layers of snow during the white season. The locals elevate this beautiful scenery by organising illumination events on select Sunday evenings in January and February, painting an otherworldly landscape (picture snow-kissed farmhouses, revelling in the warm glow of candles). Check out the illumination calendar for 2024 here.

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Shirakawago region of Japan is festooned with souvenir shops, shrines, cafes, and guesthouses where visitors can stay. If you fancy a meal at a traditional gassho-zukuri farmhouse restaurant, dine at Irori. Also sample Japanese street food dishes like Hida gyu korokke (or Japanese Croquette), gohei mochi, and smokey sausage.

Osaka — Festival of the Lights 2023 and twinkling winter markets

Visit Osaka for some of the most surreal winter markets in Japan. Begin with the Osaka Christmas Market 2023 (December 1 to December 25), offering Glühwein (spiced hot wine), hot cocoa, creative workshops, and Christmas goodies, including nutcrackers and handicrafts, imported directly from Germany. Don’t miss the Hanging Garden Xmas 2023 (November 23 to December 25), a white Christmas wonderland, and the Hanshin Christmas Market 2023 (November 8 to December 25).

Other attractions include the Festival of the Lights (November 3 to December 31 at the Midosuji Illumination 2023, and December 14 to December 25 at the OSAKA Light Renaissance 2023), the Wonder Night Hill event (October 28, 2023, to January 28, 2024), and Osaka Castle Illuminage (November 22, 2023, to February 25, 2024).

Related – Must-visit winter destinations to experience the best of winter in Japan

Nagoya — holiday dining traditions, walking tours, and dazzling winter markets

Warm glimmering lights envelope Nagoya during the holiday season. Whether it is the Great Nagoya Christmas Illumination (November 8 to December 25), celebrating the theme of a champagne gold Christmas, or the Hirokoji Avenue Illumination (October 28, 2023, to mid-January, 2024), fairy-tale sights are guaranteed.

Explore the Isogai Xmas Hanabi Fireworks (December 23, 2023), and the Nagoya Christmas Market in Japan (December 3 to December 25), offering live performances, German fare, cake, mulled wine, and handcrafted Christmas gifts. Add a dash of thrill to the merry-making by heading to the Toyota Gosei Iceless Skating Rink, open from December 9, 2023 to March 17, 2024.

Also read – 25 Most beautiful places to visit in Japan [Evergreen Tourist Destinations in Japan]

Nagasaki — Kingdom of Lights

The Dutch-themed amusement park, Huis Ten Bosch (House in the Forest), is among Japan’s best-themed parks to visit during Christmas. Be it seasonal illuminations, horse-drawn carriages, Japan’s first three-story merry-go-round towing 15 metres into the sky, or the Christmas version of Kingdom of Lights featuring 13 million balls of lights, this park is sure to impress. Visitors can also opt for a cruise around Nagasaki Bay, sprinkled with islands and iconic landmarks.

Best places for Christmas shopping in Japan

Let’s face it, Christmas is synonymous with gifting. Whether you’re indulging yourself with a little hamper of TLC, or picking gifts for your loved ones, retail therapy is a given. Japan simplifies this task with its festive offerings, particularly in Tokyo. For retro marvels and literary gems, there’s no better place than Jimbocho. Here, you’ll find traditional coffee houses, and vintage-esque shops selling books, old parchments, themed stationery, posters, and other Pinterest-y treats.

If you fancy thrift shopping, vintage goods, and independent clothing shops, head to Jingumae. For the best deals and discounts on holiday season gifting, we recommend Aeon Mall, Tokyo Solamachi, Diver City Tokyo Plaza, and Caretta Shiodome. Conclude your shopping spree on a sweet note, by heading to Jiyugaoka for the choicest of patisseries and confectioneries.

(Feature Image Credit: Peera_stockfoto/Shutterstock)

Related: Discover The Magic: Must-Visit Christmas Markets Around The World In 2023

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

– What are the best foods to try during Japanese Christmas celebrations?
The best food items to sample during Christmas celebrations in Japan include the traditional Christmas cake (kurisumasu keki), Kentucky Fried Chicken, potato salad and cream stew.

– Can I find Christmas decorations and themed items in Japan?
For Christmas celebration decorations and themed items in Japan, head to the various Christmas Markets sprinkled across the country. We recommend the Tokyo Christmas Market (November 23 to December 25, 2023), Nagoya Christmas Market (December 3 to December 25, 2023), Hanshin Christmas Market 2023 (November 8 to December 25, 2023), and Osaka Christmas Market 2023 (December 1 to December 25, 2023), among others.

– Are there any unique Christmas events or festivals in Japan?
Japan delights with surreal winter illuminations hosted across the country, such as Midtown Christmas Event (November 16 to December 25, 2023), Sapporo White Illumination (November 22, 2023 to March 14, 2024), the Great Nagoya Christmas Illumination (November 8 to December 25, 2023), and the Hirokoji Avenue Illumination (October 28, 2023 to mid-January, 2024), among others. Additionally, Japan organises Christmas markets, skating rinks, and festive workshops to elevate the celebrations.

IF YOU KNOW ANYTHING ABOUT Japanese cuisine (one of the world’s favorites!), you’ll know that, sadly for those with celiac disease or gluten intolerance, much of it is off limits due to the presence of gluten in many common Japanese ingredients. Notable among them: soy sauce, most types of noodles, and sometimes even sushi rice. So, on a recent trip to the Land of the Rising Sun, I took it as a delicious challenge to spend a week finding amazing Japanese food free of or with minimal gluten. Here’s my guide to dining gluten-free (GF for those in the know) in Tokyo.

Otsuna Sushi, located in the buzzing district of Roppongi, delivers a wonderful omakase for those avoiding gluten. While not a dedicated gluten-free establishment, with advanced notice the chef can prepare an outstanding tasting menu. Nearly all of the nigiri are adapted with GF soy, and anything that can’t be is replaced. Even the classic chawanmushi steamed egg and dessert were provided. Not too far away in Roppongi, Gluten Free T’s Kitchen offers a whole range of adaptable and allergen-free Japanese food. More than one visit may be required to sample the amount of comforting favorites on offer, including their fantastic deep fried chicken and takoyaki.

Dreaming of jiggly, soft and fluffy soufflé pancakes? Situated in the achingly cool Jingumae district off Omotesando Street, Rizlabo Kitchen is here to deliver, ensuring you don’t miss out on this Instagram-required eating experience. The small kitchen is part of a shared restaurant space on the ground floor of a traditional Japanese house, and they also do crepes on certain weekdays – be sure to check their Insta for the latest. RICEHACK Gluten Free Bakery in the side streets of Cat Street, a small hole-in-the-wall operation, serves a range of delicious curry buns, sausage rolls, bread, baguettes and pizzas to-go (including vegetarian/vegan options); these make for excellent sustenance while touring Tokyo. And tucked away on a quiet lane off well-known Takeshita Street, My Bánh Mì by Gluten Free TOKYO offers a simple menu of sandwich options, also including vegetarian and vegan variations, with a small outdoor-dining terrace providing the perfect place for a light lunch. 

Another fantastically popular Japanese dish is okonomiyaki, a type of savory pancake containing cabbage and various meat or seafood cooked on a teppan grill. Steps away from Shinjuku train station, the lively Teppan Baby specializes in Hokkaido-style okonomiyaki, which is cooked with yakisoba noodles as opposed to the more commonly found flour batter. While not suitable for celiacs due to the likelihood of cross-contamination, those with mild gluten intolerances may enjoy this dish as they are able to swap the yakisoba for rice noodles (cooked in a separate standalone pot of water). 

The restaurant Sû (a.k.a Gluten Free Kushiage Su, for googling purposes) in Ginza delivers an exceptional tasting menu of Kushiage, also known as Kushikatsu: skewers of breaded and deep-fried meat and vegetables. This modern and intimate eight-person restaurant is hard to find on the second floor of an anonymous building, however, it is truly unmissable on your gluten-free tour of Tokyo. Multiple courses of intriguing flavor combinations to start lead to wonderfully tender and crunchy sticks prepared before you and served at the counter.

Finally, for those craving the ultimate bowl of hearty goodness, Soranoiro NIPPON is conveniently placed at Tokyo Main Station to energize the weary traveler. Once you’ve located the establishment along “Ramen Street,” you can order from a machine outside the restaurant and choose a bowl of gluten free salt ramen; a deep broth with brown rice noodles, soft chicken breast, and a fudgy-yolked soft boiled egg. Slurping is highly encouraged!

Lede and hero image courtesy of Sû.

Can you believe it? 2023 is almost over and it’s time to ring in 2024 already. Sure, you must have planned your Christmas festivities, but don’t push your New Year’s Eve plans for the last moment. If you do not have any holiday plans, there cannot be a better way to welcome the new year than with a spectacular party! So, gather all your loved ones and make sure to attend the hottest New Year’s Eve countdown parties in Hong Kong.

The celebrations continue this December as we countdown to 2024. The city is decked in festive decorations, displays, and lighting to keep the mood going. Restaurants and bars are offering the most lavish dinners with impeccable, special menus for an unforgettable meal. And this year, marks the return of the New Year countdown fireworks! So naturally, most people will flock to Tsim Sha Tsui, Central, or Wan Chai to watch them. But why not bid farewell to 2023 in style, complete with food, free-flow champagne, and dressed to the nines? The party continues as 2024 approaches with numerous New Year’s Eve parties. From front-row views of the fireworks to Gatsy-themed attire, see our top picks of the best parties in town.

Don’t miss the best New Year’s Eve parties in Hong Kong

THE BUSINESS DISTRICT OF Toranomon has a lot going for it these days. Besides a catchy name (Toranomon means “Tiger’s Gate” in Japanese), the neighborhood is ringed by the government offices of Kasumigaseki, the financial center of Marunouchi, and the glitzy shopping of Ginza. This year, a four-skyscraper, decade-plus mega-development called Toranomon Hills was completed, adding a new subway station and enough retail, residential, and commercial space to rival any of Tokyo’s better-known hubs.

Naturally, all that action has attracted a bevy of restaurants and bars, including the relocation to Toranomon of well-established culinary powerhouses like Florilège and Nihonryori Kanda. With the F&B scene really heating up, we’ve curated a roundup of some of our favorite hangouts, starting with the neighborhood’s grande dame…

Rooftop Bar at Andaz Tokyo

The opening of this 52nd-floor bar in 2014 marked the start of Toranomon’s transformation. The giddy views of Tokyo Bay and Rainbow Bridge from the soaring-ceilinged, semi-open-air terrace and craft cocktails full of Japanese flavors made the neighborhood worth visiting. Nearly a decade later, hotel guests still have to compete with after-work Tokyoites coming for a bit of live music and the bar’s famous sliders. Pro tip: a carafe of Andaz’s original sake “52,” a junmai ginjo produced in collaboration with 150-year-old Miyagi brewer Niizawa, is designed to pair with sushi but goes strangely well with the bar’s truffle fries too.

apothéose

This new wave restaurant by Narisawa protégé Keita Kitamura is part of the newly opened TOKYO NODE complex in Toranomon Hills Station Tower and marks the chef’s triumphant return to Japan after years of being pelted with accolades in Paris. Passing the open-air garden and infinity pool on the way in, it’s easy to forget the restaurant is 49 floors up, but the views from the floor-to-ceiling windows in the Noma-esque monotone dining room quickly make it clear. After that, all focus is on the thrilling delicacy of the food, with ingredients sourced from around Japan coaxed into full-throated flavor.

Gold Bar at EDITION

The Tokyo EDITION’s Insta-worthy bar has been a hit with locals since it opened in 2022. While we were initially drawn in by the shiny black and gold interior, we’ve kept coming back for the rock-solid mixology. Inspired by the golden age of cocktails, the menu features elevated versions of the classics. Think punches, sours, and fizzes dolled up for the new millennium and given a Japanese twist. The recently released Two Faces menu adds to the fun with aspects only visible by blacklight. It’s a lot of flash-bang style, but with plenty of substance too.

Toranomon Brewery

If beers are more your thing, head to this brewpub collaboration between Japan’s Nihonbashi Brewery and Taiwan’s Sunmai. Both companies have their beers on tap, but the must-try is the jointly brewed Lemon Sour Ale, a light and tangy confection that blends the tart flavor of a Japanese bar classic into a lightly hopped ale. Served over ice, it’s weird, delicious, and deeply refreshing. They also have organic salads sourced from a farm in neighboring Kanagawa to balance out the damage of a boozy night.

Tachigui Sushi Akira

This more casual sister restaurant to perennial fave Sushi Shoryu opened in 2021 and takes sushi back to its fast-food roots. Tachigui means “eating while standing” in Japanese and that’s exactly what it sounds like. Akira serves the same quality of seafood as its high-end sibling but by-the-nigiri at a cramped basement counter for just six. You get in, eat delicious sushi at a fast clip, and get out to make room for the next in line. The lighter-on-the-wallet approach has proved popular, particularly at lunch time, so expect to wait for a chance to belly up. And be sure to check their Instagram for their ever-evolving opening hours.

Memento Mori

Tucked into an unassuming corner of the Toranomon Hills Business Tower is Memento Mori, a moody bar with cacao-themed craft cocktails. Put cloyingly sweet chocolate cream liqueurs right out of your mind, though. The cocktails here are more Aztec Xocolatl that Swiss Miss cocoa, with deep complexity and unexpected botanicals. Take the velvety Arequipa, for example. Beet juice and Lapsang Souchong-infused vodka get a bitter-note punch up from fermented cacao syrup and a dusting of Amazon cacao. The menu also includes other far-flung ingredients if chocolate isn’t your thing. The giant water bug G&T is worth a try just for the photo op and bragging rights. And business starts from 2 p.m. for a cheeky afternoon mocktail or parfait.

Kotora Komichi

Kotora Komichi (“Little Tiger Alley”) is the latest in a string of neo-yokochos popping up around Tokyo. Post war, yokocho were hidden alleyways with slap-dash black markets and ramshackle food and drink stands. Most of them have been lost to development, but a renaissance of purpose-built, indoor yokocho is reviving the fun of hopping from booth to booth to try every flavor of regional Japanese soulfood. At Kotora Komichi, you can have a giant sushi roll followed by a Hokkaido lamb skillet and wash it down with Kansai’s famous takoyaki balls, if that’s how you want to roll. The design is over-the-top kitsch, with washi-paper lanterns and brightly lacquered parasols, but after a few carafes of powerful Okinawan awamori, it is the perfect backdrop for a boozy photo shoot.   

Le Pristine

The newest name on this list opened just a few days ago, the first Asian outpost from Dutch master chef Sergio Herman, whose now-shuttered Oud Sluis attained three Michelin stars. Actually, we should say “outposts” because these restaurants are a Toranomon two-fer: Le Pristine Café Tokyo, a sophisticated casual restaurant, and Le Pristine Tokyo by Sergio Herman, a fine-diner set to meld the essence of one-star Le Pristine in Antwerp with the heart of Japan. Watch this space for more information. Or, if you’re in the neighborhood, it won’t be hard to find, with its, unusual for here, glass-windowed façade abuzz with diners at street level.

Eureka!

The honorable mention in this list goes to this sake-focused modern izakaya located in the neighboring Nishi Azabu district because it’s worth every yen of the short cab ride over. Run by well-known sake sommelier Marie Chiba, the counter restaurant’s ever-changing drinks list is full of hard-to-find artisanal brews as well as popular big names. But even total novices need not fret because the knowledgeable staff are pros as finding customers something they’ll like. Just tell them what you normally imbibe, pick an appetizer from the menu of the day, and they’ll do the rest. We recommend starting with the signature poached egg with squid ink mayonnaise for a moreish morsel with visual impact. We guarantee you’ll leave a sake convert.

Lede and hero image courtesy of Hyatt.

IN THE JAPANESE SAKE SCENE, some of the hardest bottles to get your hands on right now are from a tiny Fukushima craft brewer called haccoba. Their iconoclastic offerings, dry hopped like beers or infused with cacoa husks from chocolate production, for example, are outliers in the typically staid industry, yet every batch sells out in a matter of hours, snapped up by fans across the country. 

“We are trying to make sake that pushes the concept of what sake can be, sake that opens up new frontiers,” says 30-year-old founder Taisuke Sato. Motivated by a desire to support the revitalization of Fukushima, he left an IT job in Tokyo in 2019 to learn sake-making from scratch, eventually relocating his family to the little town of Odaka.  

Odaka fell within the exclusion zone established after the meltdown at Fukushima Daiichi in 2011, so for half a decade, the entire town sat empty save for the occasional PPC-wearing decontamination crew demolishing buildings and carting off topsoil. In 2016, that work finally finished and people were allowed back, but after so many years, many former residents had settled elsewhere. Only a fraction returned, many of them elderly. However, the cheaply available land and the flexibility and potential in building a town quite literally from scratch also attracted a handful of new settlers: entrepreneurs looking to try something daring. Sato was able to gather a team of likeminded young professionals and enough crowdfunded capital to renovate an old farmhouse into a brewery and pub, opening haccoba in February 2021. 

Their first brews were dry hopped, reviving a local fermentation technique that nearly died out in the late 1800s when the government banned homebrewing. Prior to that, many Japanese households made their own small-batch sakes called doburoku, and in the Tohoku region, hops were sometimes added as a natural preservative. These early experiments became haccoba’s flagship Hanauta series.  

Hanauta Drops, for example, is brewed with locally grown rice, a Japanese hops variety called Karahana-so, and a blend of yellow and white koji that brings out sweet and sour notes to balance the bitter aromatics of the hops. A touch of fermentation carries on after bottling, imparting a slight effervescence that makes the citrusy concoction even more refreshing. 

haccoba’s team is pursuing more out-of-the-box experimentation with their LAB_series, partnering not only with food producers mundane and surprising (sake from insect egg sacs?!) but also artists, fashion labels, and musicians. A recent release was a collaboration with a fragrance company to create an aromatic sake as powerfully nostalgic as Proust’s iconic cakes, fittingly named ‘Quelle est votre madeleine?’ and sold with a matching beeswax candle.  

You might say collaboration is in haccoba’s DNA. Odaka is still very short on businesses like bars or restaurants. From the beginning, Sato wanted the facility to include a brewpub to provide a much-needed venue for residents to socialize and forge a new sense of community. With sake providing that age-old social lubrication, haccoba is a place Odakans can enjoy themselves together, subtly recrafting a local identity in a place brutally cut off from its own past. 

“Odaka also exists as a kind of frontier now. Because the residents all had to leave, the life of the town ground to a halt. Livelihoods, culture, everything was gone and now it has to be recultivated,” Sato says. “As we try to develop new ways of making sake, I hope we are able to work together with people in Odaka to bring new life to the town too.” 

The Details:

If you visit Fukushima, haccoba’s onsite shop is open Tuesday through Sunday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and the brewpub hours are Friday through Sunday 5:30 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. with reservations. However, if you don’t make it farther north than Tokyo, try your luck at Hakko Department in Shimo-kitazawa, which reliably gets a few bottles of each new release.  

Images courtesy of All About, Inc.

Sai Ying Pun often gets overlooked by its trendy neighbour, Sheung Wan. We argue that if you want a quieter corner with a vibrant atmosphere, Sai Ying Pun is the place to be. With its trendy cafes, beautiful murals, and slower pace, Sai Ying Pun is a must-visit for locals and tourists alike. Read our neighbourhood guide to Sai Ying Pun to find where the best places to eat, drink, and shop are!

With the opening of the Island Line extension in 2015, Sai Ying Pun became more accessible. And with that, welcomed more visitors. This allowed it to develop further from an old neighbourhood to a sprawling hub that blends nostalgic charms with modern flair. Sai Ying Pun is a place for foodies and art lovers with many cafes and bookstores. While it doesn’t have a reputation for being a shopper’s paradise, you’ll appreciate its own unique aspects. Need a refresher on what you can enjoy here? We got you covered.

Bookmark this neighbourhood guide to Sai Ying Pun for your next (or first) visit!

Your ultimate guide to exploring Sai Ying Pun

Where to eat

When it comes to food, the easiest way is to head over to Second Street, Third Street, and High Street. And from there, take your pick from the numerous rows of restaurants and cafes. But if you really need specific recommendations… then, keep reading.

Fancy a pizza? We absolutely love the neighbourhood vibe of Pizzeria Italia and the tons (and we mean tons!) of pizza flavours available. Right across this beloved pizza place is Uncle Padak, perfect for some good old Korean fried chicken. Make sure to order that with beer! Ah, the ultimate Korean comfort food, right?

 

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If you love pasta, we highly recommend LucAle. They also serve amazing brunch. And further on to Italian food, Casa Cucina & Bar has a Cicchetti-inspired menu that your tastebuds will thank you for. When it comes to lunch and brunch, you can’t go wrong with Catch. Think fresh seafood and a delicious soft shell crab burger, served in Australian style. And another Australian eatery not to miss is G’Day Cafe.  Laidback atsmohphere, brekkie options, and limit Aussie barbecue—yum!

To enjoy some Spanish delights, head to La Paloma. The tapas and paella are top-notch. Of course, Sai Ying Pun also has plenty of restaurants serving local food. Top of our list is Kwan Kee and their delicious clay pot rice! But they have a range of dai pai dong classics to enjoy too! If you want to try underrated cuisines, look no further than Dara. The chic restaurant serves up not only amazing Filipino food but also Filipino-inspired cocktails. Brut! also recently welcomed a new chef hailing from the Philippines, so you can expect Filipino-inspired flavours from the menu.

 

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Need an extra kick of spices in your food? We totally love Pondi and its fusion of Indian home cooking with French culinary techniques. Pondi also has an al fresco dining area that’s perfect when the weather is great. We also encourage you to hit up Aziza for its delicious homemade Egyptian cuisine. Finally, don’t let your pup miss out on all the good food at Moojoo. The pet-friendly cafe is filled with animal motifs, making it the perfect spot for your pup. Snack on Western delights ranging from pasta and salad to rice options.

Where to drink

If you loved the food at Pondi, then head over to its sister venue next door, Shop B. In addition to its elevated dai pai dong dishes and Cantonese classics, the drinks menu here is solid. While you have classics like Blue Girl beer, we love the cocktails that were inspired by a nostalgic childhood like Vitasoy and Ribena. La Paloma’s El Bar also serves up some really great drinks with a retro-looking design.

For hardcore booze lovers, there’s Ping Pong 129 Gintoneria. This stylish speakeasy has over 40 gins from around the world! We also emphasise stylish because the Spanish gin bar used to be a ping pong hall. With its upgraded design, it’s not surprising that it’s often used as a location for filming. Adventurous drinkers will love Mostly Harmless. Why? It’s a menu-less cocktail bar helmed by the famous Ezra Star! The cocktail bar boasts an ever-changing set of cocktails depending on seasonal availability. So, with every visit, you’re bound to discover and try something new!

 

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For no-fuss drinks, you can’t go wrong with Junels Restobar. Not only do they serve up classic Filipino dishes and booze but the karaoke system here is no joke. It’s open to everyone! So, belt out some tunes while drinking with your friends.

Other than bars, Sai Ying Pun also has its fair share of artisanal cafes and coffee shops. The famed Halfway Coffee also has an outpost in the neighbourhood. Already a household name for coffeeholic, you will love the array of coffee and tea available. In addition to the Hong Kong-style interiors and adorable porcelain cups! Those who love wine and coffee can visit Detour. When here, make sure to sample their handcrafted coffee made from speciality roasted beans.

Another option is Noc Coffee Co., which is also a well-loved brand for coffee lovers. You might have to wait a little during the peak hours but the coffee and snacks here are worth it. We also love Coffee by Zion and its charming vibe. Grab a cuppa and their homemade cheesecake!

Where to shop

Sai Ying Pun is not exactly a shopping destination. But that said, it’s home to a few sustainable and green stores. Live Zero is the city’s first zero-waste grocery store. Shop here for eco-friendly and plastic-free products in addition to organic food and ingredients.

 

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For sustainable clothing, browse through Green Ladies. They sell high-quality secondhand womenswear! Not only do we encourage you to shop but also to sign up for consignment because once the item is sold, you can get a maximum of 30 per cent of the selling price. Take a trip down memory lane and shop at Vintage 1900’s. Here, you’ll find vintage watches, bags, and jewellery for both men and women.

And for some lifestyle and home shopping, Thorn & Burrow offers great home decor and accessories. Whether you need a simple notebook or a colourful rug, you can find it there. For book lovers, don’t miss out on Books & Co. (Coffee Book). We’re not really sure how to categorise this place since it’s a bookshop-cum-cafe. But given its wider range of books, it’s a book-shopping paradise to us. Similarly, Artzbrew is a cafe and gallery that combines food and coffee with art.

What to do

 

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Besides the dining options, you can say that Sai Ying Pun is a pretty quiet neighbourhood. Its most famous attraction is probably Art Lane. Get your cameras ready and appreciate the colourful murals and artwork around. Sure, it’s the perfect backdrop for any photo but is also amazing for times when you need a dose of artistic inspiration.

For some peace and quiet, Sun Yat Sen Park is the place to be. You can stroll, jog, or have a picnic alongside the scenic waterfront view. The park is also home to a swimming pool, football pitch, and basketball court.

This story first appeared here.

(Image credit: Henderson Land Development)

Related: Spend A Day At The Best Beach Barbecue Spots In Hong Kong

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

-What MTR line is Sai Ying Pun?
Sai Ying Pun is in the Island Line.

-What is the population of Sai Ying Pun?
Sai Ying Pun has about 13,600 residents as of 2021.

Hong Kong is transforming into an extra magical place as Christmas and New Year approaches. Complete with glistening lights, giant Christmas trees, and dazzling holiday-themed sculptures, the city is going all out to bring in the festive spirit. So, don’t miss out on the most impressive Christmas decorations and displays in Hong Kong.

Staying in the city during the holidays? Don’t fret because there are still plenty of ways to enjoy the festive season. Christmas markets and events are back at full capacity, restaurants are preparing the best holiday meals, caterers are ready to throw you the best party, and Christmas decorations and displays are lighting up the Hong Kong skyline. These festive extravaganza range from ski-themed chalets to European wonderlands, and dreamy Christmas villages. With the markets spoiling us this holiday season, we don’t have to go all the way to Europe. Did we mention some of them even include your favourite characters such as Moomin, Disney, and The Smurfs? Definitely not your average Christmas decorations, right?

So, bring some extra spark to your Christmas celebrations! Find out where all the best Christmas decorations and displays are in Hong Kong below.

These are the most beautiful Christmas decorations and displays in Hong Kong

The festive season is upon us! That means, it’s time to put up your Christmas decorations, set up the Christmas tree, and plan for your Christmas dinner. Other than that, Hong Kong will also be filled with Christmas lights and displays. Even better news? Christmas markets are back in full scale since the pandemic, making the holiday celebrations even merrier. So, bring your whole family, friends, and loved ones to the best Christmas markets in Hong Kong.

Christmas will feel like Christmas again in Hong Kong again following the end of social distancing restrictions. With that, comes the return of the well-loved festive markets in full capacity. And this year, there are plenty of markets and events to attend! Whether you want to experience a car boot sale like the UK, an Australian-themed Christmas, or a European wonderland, these markets and events are a must. You don’t even have to travel outside of the city! In addition to selling themed products, the markets also have workshops and performances to make the celebrations even better. Here are our picks of the best Christmas markets and events in Hong Kong you can’t miss!

Don’t miss out on these Christmas markets and events in Hong Kong

Huddle up! Cooler weather calls for gathering up your friends and family and firing up the grill. But rather than the mundane barbecue pits, why not switch your usual sandy days to a beach barbecue on the weekend? With plenty of options available, it’s time to grill up a storm at one of these beach barbecue spots in Hong Kong.

Having a barbecue is a great way to spend time with family and catch up with friends, no matter the occasion. But admit it, Hong Kong’s sweltering heat makes this activity unbearable rather than enjoyable. Now, with breezy weather looming over the city and autumn (albeit, short) upon us, there’s no better time to head to the beach for a barbecue. Hong Kong boasts numerous barbecue sites, both public and private. And while we enjoy the communal ones near or inside country parks, we argue that the ones next to the beaches score higher in our cards when it comes to the views. So after a day of swimming, surfing, paddling, or other water activities, why not set up camp in the sun with friends and family over great food and even better beer? See our top picks of the best beach barbecue spots in Hong Kong.

These are the best spots for beach barbecue in Hong Kong