A Day in Japan
For those who haven't had a chance to visit Japan, or even those that have, NYC offers plenty of ways to spend a pretend day in Japan.
Start your day off by heading to the Brooklyn Botanical Garden's Japanese Garden. The garden, which was built in 1914 and 1915, was the first Japanese garden to be created in an American public garden. It is one of the oldest and most visited Japanese gardens outside of Japan. The Brooklyn Botanical Garden also has more than 200 cherry trees of Asian origins, making it one of the top cherry tree visited sites outside of Japan. (1000 Washington Avenue, Brooklyn, Map)
Next head to the department store Takishamaya-NY for some shopping. The original Takishamaya dates back to the 1830s in Kyoto, Japan. Currently, Takishamaya is one of the world's largest department store chains with 20 stores in Japan. The NY store which opened in 1958 offers "rare and wonderful designs and artisan-made pieces culled from around the globe." The store also has a floral boutique, restaurant & tea cafe and spa. (693 Fifth Avenue, between 54th & 55th street, Map)
Book Store
To really feel like you are in Japan head to Kinokuniya Bookstore which has an extensive selection of Japanese books, magazines and other items. While you probably won't be able to read anything it is a really interesting store. There is also a cafe on the second floor. (1073 6th Avenue, between 40th & 41st street, Map)
Museum/Gallery
The Japan Society has a small gallery with exhibits which typically last a few months. The exhibits have varied from samurai swords to Budhhist sculpture and calligraphy. (333 East 47th St., Map)
Tea
Whether you are looking to drink tea or just purchase it, tea is a vital part of your "Day in Japan" tour.
While at Takishamaya (see above), you can go to the lower level to their Tea Box Restaurant which serves over 40 types of tea. Plus, you can purchase tea, kettles and other items at the store as well.
Located on Madison Avenue in a townhouse, Ito Eno, offers a "unique collection of tea, teaware, and artisan pieces from around the world." They also have over a hundred types of tea available. The store and its products are very nice, but given the prices you might be surprised that it's just a tea store. (822 Madison Avenue, at 69th Street, Map)
Dining
There are more than 600 Japanese restaurants to choose from in NYC ranging from Sushi to Steakhouses. One authentic pick is Yakitori Totto, whose main dishes are served on skewers. There are seats by the grill as well as a few tables. The restaurant, which is located on the second floor, is small so best to make a reservation or plan on waiting a while. (251 West 55th St, between 8th Ave & Broadway, Map)
Deserts
If you are looking for some great desserts stop by Minamoto Kitchoan, in Rockefeller Center. The combination of Japanese sweets in NY and Rockefeller Center does not make this the cheapest place, but it's worth it. Plus, it's hard to turn down green tea sweets. Visit Yelp for some great photos. (608 5th Ave, between 48th St & 49th St, Map)
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