Motown Bar

This bar is probably one of the best in Roppongi. There is no cover and the music that they play is a great mix of Classic Rock, Motown, and current pop. Beers are a bit pricey at 900¥, but just don't drink that much and you'll be OK.

Go up the hill towards Roppongi, and turn left at the main intersection, Gaien Higashi Dori. Just about 100' down on the left is Motown, marked by a subtle sign and an outdoor staircase entrance.

So, have fun! But two words of caution. You'll often find a few ladyboys there, usually up towards the entrance, so be heads up.

Also, if a girl asks you to follow her to a different bar, it's probably for a reason. Many bars will give ladies a cut if they bring patrons in. And you'll probably get soaked, so don't go along. If you're having fun at Motown, why leave?


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Tokyo: Pepper Lunch

UPDATE!! Pepper Lunch was closed last time I was in Tokyo. I dont' know why, as the sign was all in Japanese. The next time I'm back, I'll check on it again and report back. I'll keep the post up until I find out for sure.... Tim

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I stumbled upon Pepper Lunch while looking for some late night food. If you've got a hankerin' for some sizzling steak at reasonable prices, then this place is for you!

For about 1000¥, you get a 300g slice of meat sizzling on a hot iron skillet that you cook to taste. You'll also get a side of corn and a place of rice. There is a dollop of garlic butter which can be set into the skillet to add flavor. There is also a garlic soy sauce to pour into the skillet to add even more zip.

For a good steak at a great price in Japan, it can't be beat!

The vending machine to take your order:


A poster showing the selections:

Tokyo: Roppongi Noodle Shop

I have been searching for a noodle shop that serves noodles in the same style as Ramen Bayashi in Narita Town. I've found a shop here that comes close, if not surpasses the noodles served at the old haunt. I have no idea what the official name of the shop is.

On the north side of Roppongi Dori, east of the main intersection, you'll see a Daily convenience mart, and then to the right, a Yoshinoya fast food restaurant. Take the stairs below the Yoshinoya, and you'll arrive at this noodle shop. There is seating for about 15.

There is a vending machine around the corner of the stairs. If you have not used a Tokyo restaurant vending machine, you will have to learn at some point. After deciding what you want and the price, you input your money and select the item. It won't allow you to select an item that is priced more than you've inputted. You'll get a little ticket printed below, and when you sit down, you give the ticket to the chef.

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Great Noodles! Spice 'em up to your liking...

Draft Beers were about 300Y as I recall...



Me & the Chef go way back.

Google Map

Google Maps Test


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NRT-Tokyo: Hibiya Park

Hibiya Park is a short 15-20 minute walk from the ANA Intercontinental Hotel and is on the way if you are headed to the Imperial Palace and the East Gardens.

It's definitely a worthwhile destination, especially on a nice day or when there are performers. The day I went was sunny, but a tad chilly and windy. Although it was a winter day and lacking summer greenery, there was still some areas that had flowers and colorful plantings. There was a band playing a variety of music - including a Japanese rendition of 'My Way' - my dad woulda love that. They also had a guy playing the Japanese version of a pan-flute - and that was cool sounding and culturally enriching.

It's easy to get there: Take a right out of the Intercontinental Hotel on Akasuka. Turn right at the next major multi-lane road intersection onto Sabatori Dori. This road curves, then jinks a bit right then goes straight. Right after that jink, turn left on the next major intersection, Rt 301. The park is a couple of blocks down and on the right.


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The small entrance fountain at the Western corner of the park.


The 'First Gardens' in the Northeast Section of the park.



Nice Pelican fountain pond adorned with colorful flowers.