• Sarah at Anime street in Tokyo station
    Travel

    Lost in Tokyo Station Anime Street

    August 26, 2025 - By 

    Toky station? Where?

    “Sarah Sensei, what’s your favorite anime?

    Do you like Pokémon?

    Have you watched Naruto?”

    These are some of the many questions my students in Japan ask me almost every day. I wasn’t born or raised in an environment where anime and manga were popular hobbies. Back home in Cameroon, especially in the English-speaking part, anime wasn’t something I heard much about.

    But after moving to Japan, I quickly realized anime isn’t just entertainment — it’s a huge part of Japanese culture. That curiosity led me to one of Tokyo’s busiest landmarks: Tokyo Station Anime Street.

    Outside Tokyo Station
    Outside Tokyo Station

    Tokyo Station: More Than Just Trains

    Tokyo Station is one of Japan’s busiest train hubs, connecting millions of people daily to cities like Kyoto and Osaka.

    Opened in 1914, its iconic red-brick design makes it a cultural landmark. Inside, it’s like a city within a city, filled with shops, underground restaurants, and character-themed stalls. Most importantly for me — the famous Tokyo Station Anime Street.

    People moving around Toyko station train stops
    People moving around Toyko station train stops

    Exploring Tokyo Station Anime Street

    Hidden underground, this section of Tokyo Station is lined with shops dedicated to anime and manga characters. From Doraemon to Pokémon and Naruto, the street feels like a world of its own.

    I didn’t visit because I was already an anime fan. Honestly, I barely knew anything beyond Naruto. But I went out of curiosity, and guess what? I got completely lost! Walking through, I saw kids’ faces light up with joy — and even adults excited to see their favorite characters. That’s when I realized: anime isn’t just for children. It’s something loved across generations.

    Anime shops
    Anime shops

    Anime in Everyday Life: My Principal and Doraemon

    One of my most surprising anime moments didn’t even happen at Tokyo Station — it happened at school. One day, I had extra time and decided to mop the staff room. Almost every teacher thanked me, and even my principal noticed. He came over, gave me Japanese snacks, and for the first time, had a small chat with me. And what did he talk about? Doraemon.

    That day, I understood just how deeply anime is woven into Japanese culture. It connects people — teachers, students, even principals.

    Tokyo Station Food Street: A Culinary Adventure

    If anime isn’t your thing, Tokyo Station has another underground secret: a massive food street. From ramen to sushi to traditional Japanese sweets, you can find some of the country’s best meals right here. I wasn’t hungry that day, so I didn’t stop to eat, but just walking by the restaurants was a feast for the senses.

    Sarah at Ramen underground street
    Sarah at Ramen underground street

    Final Thoughts

    I may not be a hardcore anime fan, but visiting Tokyo Station Anime Street gave me a new appreciation for this world. Anime is creative, colorful, and brings joy to so many people — from kids in my classroom to my own school principal.

    So, if you ever find yourself in Tokyo, don’t just rush through the train station. Take time to explore the anime street and food street hidden underground. You might get lost like I did — but that’s part of the adventure.

    What’s your favorite anime? Share it in the comments below — I’d love to hear!

    And if you want to see my full experience, watch the vlog version here

    Go here, if you want to read more about blogs in Japan.

  • Sarah in my apartment in Osaka
    Travel

    Living in a $350 Osaka Apartment: A Tiny Space Tour You’ll Want to See

    June 18, 2025 - By 

    If you’ve ever dreamed of moving to Japan or living in a minimalist, affordable space, this $350 Osaka apartment will give you plenty of inspiration. Osaka is known for its vibrant street life, delicious food, and central location in the Kansai region—but it’s also home to some surprisingly affordable apartments. In this tour, we take a closer look at a compact studio in central Osaka that proves great things come in small (and inexpensive) packages.

    First day at my apartment
    First day at my apartment

    Affordable Living in the Heart of Osaka

    This Osaka apartment costs just $350 USD per month, which is significantly below the city’s average rent. Located in a central area, it offers quick access to public transportation, convenience stores, and shopping streets. For students, remote workers, or digital nomads, this price point is ideal.

    Despite its size, the apartment is well-organized and makes efficient use of space. With a smart layout and practical furnishings, it meets the needs of minimalist living without feeling overly cramped.

    After parking my things into the apartment
    After parking my things into the apartment

    A Tour of the Tiny Space

    The main room serves as a multi-functional living, sleeping, and working area. It includes a fold-down table, compact shelving, and enough space for a futon or low bed. The kitchenette is basic but functional, with a two-burner gas stove, a small sink, and overhead cabinets.

    Kitchen section of my apartment
    Kitchen section of my apartment

    One of the standout features is the clever use of vertical space. Wall-mounted shelves, hooks, and built-in storage help keep the apartment organized while maximizing floor space.

    The unit bathroom, a common fixture in many Japanese apartments, includes a toilet, sink, and shower/bath combo—all neatly compacted into one space. It’s clean, efficient, and perfectly suited for someone living solo.

    Bathroom, toilet and washing machine section
    Bathroom, toilet and washing machine section

    Why Choose an Osaka Apartment Like This?

    What makes this Osaka apartment particularly appealing is the balance of affordability and location. You’re not sacrificing convenience for cost—this unit is situated in a walkable, well-connected part of the city. Plus, the small footprint encourages a minimalist lifestyle, which many residents in Japan embrace.

    While it may not have luxury finishes or expansive views, it offers everything you need to live comfortably in one of Japan’s most exciting cities.

    Final Thoughts

    If you’re considering a move to Japan or just curious about urban living abroad, this $350 Osaka apartment tour offers a realistic glimpse into affordable housing options. It’s a great example of how thoughtful design and compact living can coexist in a bustling metropolis.

    For more videos and insights into Japanese living, be sure to check out the full apartment tour on YouTube!

    If you prefer reading, check out this link for more blogs.