Shibuya Sky Guide: What to Know Before Your Visit

Shibuya Sky is an observation deck on top of Shibuya Scramble Square in Tokyo. It gives amazing views of the city, including Shibuya Crossing, Tokyo Tower, and even Mount Fuji on clear days. There are indoor and outdoor areas with modern design and great photo spots. It’s especially beautiful at sunset or at night. It’s easy to reach from Shibuya Station and is a great place to see Tokyo from above.

The rooftop bar at Shibuya Sky is a relaxing spot where you can
enjoy drinks while taking in amazing city views.

Must-Know Tips Before Heading to Shibuya Sky

1. Timing: Plan to arrive about 10 minutes before your scheduled entry. Elevators and queues can get busy, so it’s better to be a little early than risk being late.

This is the queue for the elevator area. It isn’t very
long this time because it’s still a bit early.

2. Food and Drinks: Eating and drinking aren’t allowed on the observation deck, but don’t worry — there are designated areas where you can grab snacks and beverages before or after your visit.

3. Locker Area: Bags, tripods, selfie sticks, strollers, and other large items aren’t allowed on the observation deck, so it’s best to store them in the designated locker area.

Note: From our experience, even small tripods—like the one on a DJI Osmo Pocket 3—aren’t allowed.

4. Clothing: If you’re visiting Shibuya Sky, it’s best to avoid skirts or dresses, especially for women, since it can get very windy on the observation deck. Scarves and other small items can easily be blown around, and staff may ask you to secure them or keep them in your pockets to prevent them from flying away.

Shibuya Scramble Square is one of Shibuya’s main skyscrapers,
topped off by the popular Shibuya Sky viewpoint.

5. Booking: You have two options for booking Shibuya Sky tickets: through their official website or via Klook. We chose Klook because it’s very easy to check time availability.

Note: Booking can be tricky since popular dates and times often sell out quickly. It’s best to check availability about two weeks before your preferred visit. For example, we kept an eye on our chosen date and booked exactly two weeks ahead. Tickets are usually released at 12:00 AM Japan time, and sunset or evening slots are especially popular, so plan accordingly.

Book on Klook here: Click Here 

My husband and I enjoying the view from above.
Left photo: the iconic elevator at Shibuya Sky.

Whether you’re visiting Tokyo for the first time or are a seasoned traveler, Shibuya Sky offers a stunning perspective of the city that’s hard to beat. Plan ahead, dress comfortably, and get ready to enjoy one of Tokyo’s most breathtaking views — it’s an experience you won’t forget.

Japan VISA Guide

• Check it here:  Click Here

Where to buy eSim?

• Klook: Click Here

Where to book a flight?

• Check it here: Click Here 

Osaka, Japan: 5 Fascinating Things We Learned on Our Trip

Disclaimer: At the time of writing this, it’s my third time and my husband's fourth time visiting Japan.

Dotonbori, Osaka, Japan

Osaka is known for its vibrant atmosphere, delicious food, and warm, friendly people. 

Here are a few things we noticed during our visit:

1. Food. The food in Osaka is quite different from what you find in Tokyo or Sapporo. Many dishes tend to be a bit sweeter and often fried, like the famous kushikatsu. Osaka is also well-known for its takoyaki and okonomiyaki, which are must-try local specialties.

This is one of the most famous kushikatsu restaurants in Osaka.

2. Sounds. The chimes at train stations and traffic lights in Osaka have a distinct tone, different from those in Tokyo or Sapporo. It gives the city a unique auditory vibe.

The famous Glico Man in Osaka. | Photo taken September 26, 2025

3. Workwear. In Tokyo, most workers wear black suits, especially noticeable during rush hour as they line up for trains. In Osaka, many workers opt for white polos or white long-sleeve shirts, which we found quite different and interesting.

4. Sightseeing spots. Most sightseeing spots in Osaka revolve around food destinations and temples, which is a bit different from the more varied attractions you see in Sapporo or Tokyo. Honestly, as a couple who aren’t really into visiting temples, the food scene was the biggest highlight for us.

Dotonbori Canal

5. Restrooms. Finding public restrooms in Osaka can be tricky since many establishments don’t allow non-customers to use theirs. Also, squat toilets are still common here. While there are sitting toilets too, having squat toilets as an option was something we hadn’t expected.

The cute manhole cover we found somewhere in Dotonbori.
It features Expo 2025 Osaka, Kansai, Japan.

Overall, would we recommend Osaka?

Absolutely—especially if you’re a foodie. Osaka is a true haven for anyone who loves food adventures, with its unique flavors and vibrant street food culture. If you’re passionate about exploring local eats, Osaka won’t disappoint.

Japan VISA Guide

• Check it here:  Click Here

Where to buy eSim?

• Klook: Click Here

Where to book a flight?

• Check it here: Click Here 

Grey Rock Cabins: Perfect Getaway in Balamban, Cebu

Last time, I wrote about the nice-looking vacation house in the city—yet away from the crowded areas—that’s perfect for unwinding. It’s the villa at Grey Rock Cabins.

A lovely night at Grey Rock Cabins in Balamban, Cebu

Grey Rock Cabins is an amazing vacation house in Balamban, Cebu that offers both a villa and a cabin. According to the Booking.com site, the villa can accommodate 23 people, while the cabin can accommodate about 6 people.

Check availability and book on Booking.com

• Villa: Click Here

• Cabin: Click Here

Ever since I posted a video on TikTok about our experience staying at one of their cabins, many people have been asking about it. Now, let me spell out some details.

This is the poolside area of the villa.

About Their Villa

It is awesome. It’s perfect for large groups or big families. It has a swimming pool, a karaoke area, and a chimney in the living room (ideal for the cold weather in the mountains where it is located). Aside from the dining area near the living room, it also has an alfresco dining area and more. (for more details, click here.)

About Their Cabins

Their cabins are also very nice, and they create a different vibe—more like glamping.

For breakfast, you can cook your own meal since there’s a cooking area available. The setup is charming, with a cozy outdoor retreat vibe. Plus, they provide essential ingredients such as rice, eggs, and more.

By the way, the banana loaf in this photo
isn’t included — we brought it.

Additionally, there’s free coffee and water available, as well as all the kitchen utensils you’ll need.

The cabin is very spacious; it has four beds—two on the second floor and two on the first floor.

Tip: If you can’t pin the address for 'Grey Rock Cabins' on Google Maps, please pin Gaas, Balamban’s Barangay Hall instead, as it is very close.

Special thanks to the groom’s best man for this amazing
honeymoon gift at Grey Rock Cabins. Thank you so much!

For those who want to have a setup like this or have other inquiries, feel free to message them on their official Facebook or Instagram pages.

Enjoying our favorite Japanese sparkling sake, Mio Clear, with
this amazing view. It’s truly a wonderful mini-moon for us, and we
are so grateful for this incredible gift.

Grey Rock Cabins truly offers the perfect blend of comfort and nature, making it an ideal getaway for families, couples, or friends. Don’t miss the chance to experience this cozy mountain retreat!

• See it on Facebook: click here.

• See it on Tiktok: click here.

Must-Know Japanese Etiquette & Travel Tips Before Your Trip

Planning a trip to Japan? Here are the essential practices you should learn—from understanding otōshi charges to mastering queue etiquette—for a smooth, respectful, and authentic experience. Don’t miss these must-know tips every traveler needs.

This is somewhere in Shibuya.

Common Practices You Must Remember Before Going to Japan:

1. Otoshi

“Otoshi”  is a Japanese term for a small dish served automatically at some restaurants, usually before ordering. It’s like a free appetizer, often simple items such as pickles or salad, but note that it is added to your bill.

It’s edamame—this was the otoshi at one of
the restaurants we visited in Shinjuku.

It’s kinpira—this was another otoshi we
had at one of the izakayas we visited.

2. In a Food Shop

Avoid lingering too long in food shops without ordering, just to pass the time, as others may be waiting for a table.

This is close to Tokyo Skytree.

3. Queuing Up

Japan is known for its orderly queues, whether at train stations, elevators, or bus stops. Always stand in line and wait your turn patiently.

This is somewhere in Shibuya.

4.  Don’t Talk Loudly on Public Transport

Keep your voice low and avoid phone calls on trains and buses. Japanese public transport is considered a quiet space, so maintain a calm atmosphere.

This is the most famous crossing in Shinjuku.

5 . Proper Trash Disposal

Separate your trash carefully (burnable, non-burnable, and recyclables) and dispose of it in the correct bins. Each area may have its own system, so be sure to pay attention.

Japan VISA Guide

• Check it here:  Click Here

Where to buy eSim?

• Klook: Click Here

Where to book a flight?

• Check it here: Click Here