The Broadcast - Canberra

15/06/2026

Continuing our exercise and fitness series over the winter, we’ve prepared a Q&A with our own Exercise Physiologist, Rakesh Patel. Don’t procrastinate - start your exercise journey today!

Getting started with exercise: expert tips from The Broadcast’s Exercise Physiologist, Rakesh Patel

Winter can be a challenging time to kickstart or maintain an exercise routine, with colder mornings and shorter days testing motivation.

But as many in our community know, consistent movement pays dividends for physical health, mental resilience, and overall wellbeing.

To help those considering taking the plunge, especially after getting the all-clear from their doctor, we prepared a Q&A with The Broadcast’s own Exercise Physiologist, Rakesh Patel. Rakesh shares practical, evidence-based advice on overcoming common barriers and building a sustainable fitness habit.

Question:
You’ve decided to give it a go and get into exercise. You’ve been to the doctor and they’ve given you the all-clear to start gradually. What do you recommend?

Answer
“The first step is to speak with an exercise professional to clarify your goals and develop a personalised program that provides clear structure and direction,” Rakesh recommends.

“One of the biggest barriers people face in the gym is uncertainty about what to do or training without a plan.”

Having specific goals and a structured program not only improves consistency but also builds motivation and accountability.

An Exercise Physiologist can tailor intensity to your health conditions, ensuring safe progression while minimising risks of flare-ups or injury.

Question:
You’ve come home sore and out of breath. Are you doing something wrong, or is this normal?

Answer:
This is a common concern, and Rakesh stresses the importance of understanding your body’s signals.

“If you are abnormally out of breath during or after an exercise session, feeling like you are really struggling to catch your breath, this is not something to ignore,” he explains.

“If this happens regularly, it’s important to seek advice from your GP to rule out any underlying issues.”

That said, some huffing and puffing is expected:

“If you’re simply huffing and puffing after training but it feels appropriate for the effort you’ve put in, this is usually just a normal response to higher exercise intensity. During harder efforts, it’s completely normal for your heart rate and breathing rate to increase. The key is being able to recover reasonably well once you stop.”

Watch for red-flag symptoms such as unusual or severe breathlessness, chest pain, dizziness, or feeling faint. Stop immediately and seek medical advice if these occur.

Muscle soreness is also normal, especially when starting or progressing.

“This is called Delayed Onset Muscle Soreness (DOMS), a normal response where your muscles feel tender or stiff 24–72 hours after exercise, especially if you’ve done something new or more intense than usual.”

Rakesh distinguishes DOMS (general soreness and tightness that improves with movement) from sharp, localised, or persistent pain, which may signal technique issues, overload, or imbalance. In those cases, assessment by a physiotherapist or exercise professional is advised.

Question:

When is the best time to exercise?

Answer:
“There is no single right answer, as everyone responds differently,” Rakesh notes.

“Some people prefer exercising in the morning, while others perform better in the afternoon or evening.”

The key is consistency:
“Ultimately, it comes down to individual preference, lifestyle, and the time of day you feel most energetic. The best time to exercise is the time you can stick to regularly and make part of your routine.”

Question:

Should I join a gym first up?

Answer:
This depends entirely on you. Some thrive in a gym environment, while others prefer home workouts or outdoor activity.

“The best option is the one that suits your lifestyle, preferences, and helps you stay consistent,” Rakesh advises.

“Each environment has its own benefits, and the most effective choice is the one you can maintain long-term.”

Question:
Weights or cardio?

Answer:
“Ideally, everyone should aim for a balance of both,” he says.

“Cardiorespiratory fitness is just as important as strength training, and they complement each other in supporting overall health.”

Cardio improves heart and lung health, endurance, and energy levels. Strength training builds muscle, supports joint health, metabolism, and long-term function. Combining both creates the strongest foundation for health, performance, and longevity.

Question:

Alone or with a friend?
Personal preference rules here too. Training with a friend can boost motivation, accountability, and enjoyment for many people.

“Others prefer training alone because it allows them to focus, move at their own pace, and get into their own headspace,” Rakesh shares.

“For me personally, I prefer working out alone, but there’s no right or wrong answer. The best approach is whatever keeps you consistent and enjoying your training.”

Whether you’re easing back into exercise over winter or maintaining momentum after a trip (like keeping up gym sessions while travelling), starting with professional advice and listening to your body sets you up for success. Small, consistent steps lead to lasting results.

Rakesh Patel is an Exercise Physiologist with EPA Health, he’ll be sharing exercise and fitness insights through winter.

For personalised guidance, contact him at [email protected], or visit www.epahealth.com.au

Have a fitness question or success story? Share it with The Broadcast.

EPA Health provides exercise physiology for a range of conditions

14/06/2026

Today our travel correspondent departs Japan for other destinations! They’ll return to the pages of The Broadcast soon. Before they depart they’ll share the smoothest and most efficient way to depart Tokyo! Stay tuned.

14/06/2026

Once again our intrepid travel writer has explored a Tokyo gem. This time the Akasaka Palace.

A stately encounter: visiting Tokyo’s Akasaka Palace – Japan’s neo-Baroque Jewel

Stepping through the West Gate into the grounds of the State Guest House, Akasaka Palace (赤坂離宮, Akasaka Rikyū), feels like entering a different era. Nestled in the upscale Moto-Akasaka district of Minato Ward, this grand edifice rises amid manicured gardens, its pale stone façade and symmetrical elegance evoking the grand palaces of Europe.

Yet the Palace is quintessentially Japanese in its story: a symbol of Meiji-era ambition, imperial legacy and modern diplomacy. As a features writer who has explored Tokyo’s hidden corners, from Fushimi Inari’s torii gates to the porcelain heritage of Imari, wandering these halls offered a profound window into Japan’s transformation.

The palace’s origins trace back to the transformative Meiji period (1868–1912), when Japan rapidly modernized and embraced Western influences while asserting its place on the global stage. After the Meiji Restoration, land once belonging to the Kishu Tokugawa family (and earlier used as a temporary residence for Emperor Meiji following a fire at the Imperial Palace) was designated for a new imperial home.

Construction began in 1899 and was completed in 1909 as the Tōgū Gosho (Crown Prince’s Palace). It was intended as a residence for Crown Prince Yoshihito, who would later ascend as Emperor Taishō (r. 1912–1926).

Architect Katayama Tōkuma (片山東熊), a leading figure trained under British architect Josiah Conder at the Imperial College of Engineering, oversaw the project. Katayama mobilized the finest Japanese architects, artists and craftsmen, incorporating cutting-edge techniques for earthquake and fire resistance, vital in a seismically active nation.

The result?

Japan’s only full-scale Neo-Baroque palace, drawing inspiration from European landmarks like the Palace of Versailles and Vienna’s Hofburg.

The three-story main building features ornate façades, a prominent central tower and interiors rich with marble, chandeliers and intricate detailing. Italian marble graces the entrance hall in a striking black-and-white checkerboard pattern. It represented the pinnacle of Meiji Western-style architecture, showcasing Japan’s mastery of imported styles while blending in subtle Japanese craftsmanship.

Though built for Crown Prince Yoshihito, he never resided there long-term. His son, the future Emperor Shōwa (Hirohito), lived in the palace for about five years after the 1923 Great Kantō Earthquake destroyed his previous home.

Later, the current Emperor (Naruhito) spent time there as Crown Prince, totaling around 18 months.

Post-World War II, the palace transitioned from imperial hands to government ownership. It briefly served non-residential roles, including as offices for the 1964 Tokyo Olympics organizing committee.

Extensive renovations in the late 1960s–early 1970s, led by architect Togo Murano and costing over 10 billion yen, transformed it into the State Guest House, with a new Japanese-style annex (Yushintei) added to complement the Western main building. It reopened in 1974.

Today, Akasaka Palace serves as Japan’s premier state guest house, hosting heads of state, international summits, and diplomatic receptions. Lavish rooms like the Asahi-no-Ma (Room of the Rising Sun), a 200-square-meter salon, welcome dignitaries with opulent décor. The Japanese-style annex offers traditional aesthetics, including tatami rooms and courtyard gardens with Kyoto-sourced stone, providing a balanced East-West experience for guests.

Since 2016, it has opened more fully to the public year-round (around 250 days annually), designated a National Treasure in 2009, the first for a post-Meiji building. Visitors can explore the main building’s ornate interiors (no photography inside), gardens, and sometimes the annex via guided tours.

Visiting Tips
* Access: A short walk from Yotsuya Station (JR Chuo-Sobu, Tokyo Metro lines). Enter via the West Gate.
* Hours: Generally 10:00–17:00 (last entry 16:00); closed Wednesdays (or the next day if a holiday). Check the official site for closures.
* Tickets: Main building + gardens: Adults ¥1,500, university students ¥1,000, high school ¥500, children free. Annex tours require advance reservations and cost more. Audio guides (¥200) are excellent.
* Experience: Allow 1–2 hours. The contrast between the European grandeur and surrounding Tokyo skyline is striking. Combine with nearby spots like the Imperial Palace or Meiji Shrine for a full imperial history day.

On a Sunday high tea is served and you can enjoy the experience in a very civilised zone in front of the palace. There are a number of snack vans to choose from.

Akasaka Palace stands as more than a building, it embodies Japan’s Meiji-era leap into modernity, its imperial continuity and its role as a gracious host on the world stage. Whether you’re drawn by architectural beauty, historical depth, or the chance to glimpse diplomatic splendor, a visit leaves you with a deeper appreciation for how Japan bridges tradition and progress. If you’re planning a trip, it’s a must-see gem that rewards the curious explorer.

14/06/2026

Our travel writer is out and about this morning - visiting the spectacular Akasaka Palace in Tokyo!

13/06/2026

Our travel writer has been busy south of Yokohama this morning, visiting the famous battleship, the Imperial Japanese Ship Mikasa.

A half-day naval odyssey: from central Tokyo to the Legendary IJN Mikasa in Yokosuka

For history buffs and naval enthusiasts staying in the Tokyo area, whether starting from bustling hubs like Shinjuku, or outer stations such as Hashimoto or similar commuter spots, a half-day trip to the preserved battleship Mikasa offers a compelling escape into Japan’s maritime past.

Located in Mikasa Park, Yokosuka, this pre-dreadnought icon stands as the last surviving example of its kind worldwide and a powerful symbol of the Russo-Japanese War era.
�Departing from central or western Tokyo stations, the trip is straightforward and scenic. Take the JR Yokosuka Line from Tokyo Station or transfer via Shinagawa for the Keikyu Line to Yokosuka-Chuo Station. Fares are affordable (around ¥500–950 one way), with trains running frequently.

The ride hugs Tokyo Bay’s edges, passing through Yokohama’s vibrant port areas before reaching Yokosuka’s naval heartland.

Aim for a morning start to maximise your time.

Trains from many Tokyo suburbs converge efficiently, making this accessible even for a spontaneous half-day.

Upon arrival at Yokosuka-Chuo (Keikyu), it’s a pleasant 15-minute walk to Mikasa Park.
�Mikasa Park welcomes you with waterfront views, fountains and green spaces, perfect for photos against the ship’s imposing silhouette.

The star attraction is the IJN Mikasa herself, a British-built battleship (Vickers, 1902) that served as Admiral Tōgō Heihachirō’s flagship.

Climb aboard (admission ¥600 for adults; open from 9 AM, last entry 30 minutes before closing, for a self-guided tour through restored decks, the bridge, Admiral’s quarters, and gun emplacements. Exhibits, models, dioramas and touch panels bring the Russo-Japanese War (1904–1905) to life: the surprise attack at Port Arthur, the Yellow Sea clash, and the decisive Battle of Tsushima, where Tōgō’s “Z” flag signaled Japan’s historic victory over the Russian Baltic Fleet.

As we explored the steel hull, one could imagine cannon fire echoing across the waves, the ship’s survival story impresses: decommissioned under the Washington Naval Treaty, nearly scrapped, yet preserved through public effort and reopened in 1926. It’s a tangible link to Japan’s emergence as a modern naval power.

The Mikasa lost 113 crew in the Battle of Tsushima, however, just 6 days after the Treaty of Portsmouth, which concluded hostilities between Russia and Japan, the ship was moored at the Sasebo Naval Base and a catastrophic fire and magazine explosion led to the deaths of 250 crew and the ship’s back broke and she sank. Ultimately refloated and rebuilt, it was ironic the ship had survived and secured victory as fleet flagship, but was later sunk in a peacetime incident.

Plan an hour to an hour and a half here; audio guides or English signage enhance the experience. There’s a small shop where you can buy souvenirs of the ship.
�With time left in your half-day, stroll Mikasa Park for sea breezes and perhaps a ferry to nearby Sarushima (Monkey Island) for quick fortress ruins and hikes if schedules align (ferries run hourly). Nearby Dobuita Street offers American-influenced vibes, naval memorabilia shops and casual eats, perhaps try fresh seafood or Yokosuka’s famous “Navy curry.”
�Head back via the same rail lines, the entire outing fits neatly before afternoon Tokyo commitments, blending history, fresh air and reflection on themes of strategy, resilience and history that still resonate today.

This trip delivers more than sightseeing, it’s an immersive step into imperial Japan’s pivotal past. For those drawn to military heritage (echoing stories of leadership and service), the Mikasa embodies quiet strength preserved for generations.

12/06/2026

Our own dietician is back today sharing some great thoughts around food and healthy living.

Are we addicted to food? Unpacking cravings, habits, and lasting change with The Broadcast’s own dietitian - Alannah Patch

In a world of hyper-palatable snacks and endless food delivery options, many of us wonder if we’re truly addicted to certain foods. Are our bodies hard-wired for sugar, salt and fat, or is something more nuanced at play?

Alannah Patch, The Broadcast’s in-house nutritionist and a qualified dietitian, offers a refreshing, evidence-based perspective that moves beyond guilt and fear toward understanding and sustainable habits.

“I think the word ‘addiction’ gets used quite a lot when talking about food, but food is more complex than substances we traditionally think of as addictive,” Alannah explains.

Humans evolved to crave foods rich in sugar, salt, and fat because these provided essential energy and nutrients in times of scarcity.

Today, the modern food environment exploits this wiring.

The combination of these elements creates what experts call the “bliss point” a neurological sweet spot that triggers a powerful dopamine response.

“This makes the food seem highly rewarding and can trick your brain’s natural ‘I’m full’ signals, driving overeating and ‘cravings’,” Alannah notes.

Yet she cautions against viewing our preferences as permanently fixed.

“What’s important to remember is that our taste preferences are influenced by both biology and experience. Some preferences may be present from a young age, but many can change over time through repeated exposure and our environment.”

This plasticity offers hope.

Someone who once turned up their nose at vegetables can learn to enjoy them, and cravings can shift with consistent effort.

“I think it’s less about being permanently hard-wired and more about understanding that our brains are designed to seek pleasure, energy, and familiarity from food,” she adds.

Sugar and salt often bear the brunt of public blame, but Alannah emphasises their essential roles. Sugar (as a carbohydrate) fuels energy needs, while sodium supports fluid balance, nerve function and muscle contraction.

The real issue arises with ultra-processed foods that deliver them in excess, amplifying that bliss-point response.

“A chocolate bar doesn’t make someone unhealthy, just like a salad doesn’t instantly make someone healthy. It’s the overall pattern and consistency of our choices that matter most,” Alannah says.

“What I encourage people to focus on isn’t fear of sugar or salt, but looking at their overall eating pattern.”

So how do we actually change? Alannah challenges the myth that motivation is the starting point.

“Motivation comes and goes. Successful change is usually built on maintainable habits, routines, and systems that continue even when motivation is low.”

The key is starting small.

“Focus on one behaviour, adding protein to breakfast, drinking more water, or taking a post-dinner walk, rather than overhauling everything at once.”

These micro-wins build confidence and compound over time.

“It’s about focusing on consistency over perfection and not relying on motivation but discipline instead.”

Environment plays a starring role too.

“Our choices aren’t made in a vacuum; stress, fatigue, social settings, sleep quality, and what’s visible on the kitchen counter all influence decisions.”

Decision fatigue often hits in the evening, leading to convenient but less ideal options.

“If healthy options are readily available and convenient, we’re much more likely to choose them,” Alannah observes.

“Understanding your environment is incredibly powerful because it helps remove some of the self-blame.”

Simply moving biscuits out of sight or prepping snacks ahead can shift behaviour without relying on willpower alone.

In the age of social media, finding trustworthy guidance is crucial. Alannah advises evaluating influencers by how they make you feel: empowered or overwhelmed?

“Do I feel more confident after listening to this person, or more confused or fearful?”

She recommends prioritising qualified professionals who ground advice in evidence and tailor it to individual needs, while acknowledging that family, trainers, or credible creators can also help.

Setbacks are inevitable, but Alannah reframes them helpfully.

“Health isn’t something you’re either on or off. Everyone has weekends away, celebrations, stressful periods, holidays… That’s normal!”

The difference between those who succeed long-term and those who don’t isn’t perfection, it’s the ability to return to habits without beating yourself up.

“Consistency isn’t about being perfect, it’s about coming back to your habits more often than you leave them.”

Sustainability trumps rigidity every time.

Alannah’s message is ultimately compassionate and practical.

Real life includes disruptions and nutrition doesn’t demand flawlessness. By understanding our biology, reshaping environments, building small systems and choosing guidance that empowers rather than shames, lasting change becomes achievable.

As Alannah puts it:

“We all have holidays, celebrations, busy periods and times when our routines look different. That’s completely normal. Success doesn’t come from never straying from your habits; it comes from having habits that are realistic enough to return to when life settles down.”

You can reach out to Alannah at Adaptive Diatetics on 1300 859 771 or [email protected]

12/06/2026

Our correspondent has filed from central Tokyo. A visit to the Imperial Palace.

A serene morning at Tokyo’s Imperial Palace: an oasis of history and tranquility

As the shafts of mid-morning easterly rays filtered through the skyscrapers of modern Tokyo, the Imperial Palace emerges as a verdant sanctuary amid the bustling metropolis.

A short stroll from Tokyo Station along Gyoko-dori Avenue brought us to the imposing yet graceful stone walls and wide moats, where the frenetic energy of the city yielded to a profound sense of calm.

Today, the palace grounds felt like a living museum, a green oasis where history whispers through meticulously pruned black pines and reflective waters.

The site traces its roots to Edo Castle, the formidable stronghold of the Tokugawa shoguns who ruled Japan from 1603 to 1867. Following the Meiji Restoration in 1868, the imperial capital shifted from Kyoto to Tokyo (then Edo), and the palace became the official residence of the Emperor.

The original structure was destroyed in World War II but rebuilt in traditional style, preserving its elegant architectural harmony. Today, the inner precincts remain the private residence of the Imperial Family, largely off-limits to the public except for guided tours and special occasions like New Year’s greetings or the Emperor’s Birthday on February 23.

For an accessible morning visit, the East Gardens (Kōkyo Higashi Gyoen) open at 9 a.m. Tuesday, Wednesdays and Thursdays as well as the weekend. Today we accompanied a 2 hour guided tour - these are available Mondays and Fridays.

Strolling these former castle grounds reveals stone foundations of ancient towers, serene ponds and seasonal blooms that transform the space into a botanical haven.

The palace’s vast 115-hectare complex acts as a natural buffer, its moats and forests insulating it from the urban roar.

At the heart of this living tradition stands Emperor Naruhito, who ascended the Chrysanthemum Throne in 2019 following his father Emperor Akihito’s historic abdication. Naruhito, born in 1960, and his wife Empress Masako embody a modern yet deeply symbolic monarchy.

Their daughter, Princess Aiko (born 2001), is a beloved figure, though Japan’s male-only succession laws place the immediate line with Naruhito’s brother, Crown Prince Fumihito (Akishino), and his son, Prince Hisahito (born 2006). The aging Prince Hitachi remains further in line, sparking ongoing national discussions about the future of the world’s oldest hereditary monarchy.

A morning here offered more than scenery, it invited reflection on continuity amid change.

As the sun climbed and the palace’s silhouette sharpens against the skyline, one senses the quiet endurance of an institution bridging feudal past and vibrant present. Whether on a guided inner-grounds tour or a peaceful garden wander, the Imperial Palace rewards you with timeless serenity in Tokyo’s dynamic heart.

12/06/2026

Our travel writer spent the morning at the Japanese Imperial Palace. Their story soon!

11/06/2026

Our reporter visited two key Tokyo suburbs today. Their story follows.

A day in Shibuya and Harajuku: from station depths to rooftop serenity

Emerging from Shibuya Station the sensory overload hits instantly.

The underground maze of Tokyo’s busiest hub gives way to daylight and the hum of one of the world’s most electric districts. Our stroll in the subway saw us navigate through bustling passages lined with convenience stores and signage promising endless possibilities. By the time we surfaced near the iconic scramble, Shibuya has already wrapped us in its rhythm.
First stop was breakfast at Flipper’s Shibuya.

Tucked in the Jinnan area, just a short walk from the station, this café is a haven for those craving something extraordinary to start the day. The menu revolves around their signature “miracle” or soufflé pancakes, cloud-like creations so light they practically levitate off the plate. Made fresh with premium eggs from partner farms, these pancakes achieve an ethereal fluffiness that melts in the mouth. Options range from classic sweet stacks topped with fresh fruit and cream to savory twists like fried chicken or egg combinations. I opted for the cinnamon apple variety, paired with a smooth Americana coffee.
The wait stretched into an hour (arrive early to beat the line), but it’s worth every minute as you watch the open kitchen magic unfold. Seated amid the brunch buzz, surrounded by locals and travelers snapping discreet photos, it sets a perfect tone: indulgent yet energizing, a gentle entry into Shibuya’s high-octane day.
Fueled and ready, it’s time for the main event: the Shibuya Scramble Crossing.

Stepping out near the Hachiko dog statue (a quick landmark check), you join the orchestrated chaos. Up to thousands of pedestrians surge across five directions simultaneously when the lights change, a mesmerizing ballet of synchronized movement amid towering digital billboards flashing fashion ads and J-pop beats.
The vibe is pure Tokyo dynamism, manic yet orderly, anonymous yet communal. Tourists pose for photos while business men and women weave through with purpose. From street level, it feels exhilarating; from above (perhaps a quick peek from a nearby café), it’s a living postcard of urban energy. This crossing isn’t just a waypoint; it embodies Shibuya’s soul: a place where tradition meets hyper-modernity in constant, thrilling flux.

From the scramble, shopping beckons in every direction. Shibuya 109 looms as a trendsetting beacon for youth fashion, its cylindrical form packed with boutiques showcasing kawaii culture, streetwear, and the latest Harajuku-inspired looks. Nearby, Center G*i pulses with smaller shops, record stores, and quirky finds, while modern complexes like Shibuya Parco and Scramble Square offer polished multi-level experiences, think Nintendo stores, lifestyle megastores like Loft, and everything from cosmetics to souvenirs.

Whether hunting for unique souvenirs at Don Quijote or browsing high-end fashion, the retail therapy here is relentless and rewarding. Prices vary, but the energy of discovery is priceless.
The area rewards wandering: pop into side streets for hidden gems or dive into the underground malls connected to the station.
A short walk north from Shibuya leads into the colourful chaos of Harajuku.

Takesh*ta Street in Harajuku explodes with energy, narrow, pedestrian-packed lanes lined with crepe stands, rainbow cotton candy, and eccentric fashion boutiques. Teenagers and visitors browsing vibrant streetwear, quirky accessories and kawaii merchandise spilling from every storefront. The sweet scent of freshly made crepes and the soundtrack of laughter and pop music create an infectious, youthful buzz that perfectly complements Shibuya’s vibe.

Just beyond the shops lies the serene contrast of Meiji Jingu Shrine.

Passing through a towering wooden torii gate, the path winds into a tranquil forest of ancient trees that muffles the city noise. The Shinto shrine offered a peaceful sanctuary for quiet reflection, with visitors offering prayers or simply soaking in the spiritual calm.

This side trip highlights Tokyo’s ability to balance frenetic energy with timeless tranquility.

Shibuya’s vibe is what lingers most.

It’s youthful, creative and unapologetically vibrant, a magnet for fashion-forward crowds, street performers, and global visitors.

Neon lights compete with daylight, street food aromas mingle with coffee shops and the soundtrack shifts from train announcements to thumping club beats spilling from venues.

There’s a sense of endless possibility; one moment you’re amid the crowd’s roar, the next finding quiet corners of street art or tucked-away cafés.

It’s inclusive chaos, where everyone from teens in eclectic outfits to families and business professionals coexists in this cultural crucible.

As midday approached, we sought elevation at Shibuya Parco’s 10th-floor Rooftop Park. A short stroll from the crossing, the elevator whisks you up to a serene green oasis overlooking the cityscape.

Narrow paths wind through grass, trees and art installations, offering panoramic views of the skyline and the scramble below. It’s a refreshing counterpoint to the streets, quiet enough for reflection, with benches perfect for people-watching from afar or sipping a takeaway drink. On clearer days, the views extend impressively and the open air revitalizes tired legs.

It’s a hidden gem that reminds you Shibuya balances frenzy with respite.

Our visit encapsulated Shibuya and Harajuku perfectly: a journey from underground efficiency through culinary delight, iconic frenzy, consumer wonder, colourful streets, sacred calm and finally elevated serenity. Over the day we tasted the districts’ heart, fluffy pancakes and all.

Whether first-time explorer or repeat visitor, this corner of Tokyo delivers an unforgettable slice of city life.