One of the best Muslim-friendly, Halal restaurants in Japan that serves up divine Turkish food for lunch and dinner is Bosphorus Hasan. It is also an ideal place for parties and special functions.
...moreOne of the best Muslim-friendly, Halal restaurants in Japan that serves up divine Turkish food for lunch and dinner is Bosphorus Hasan. It is also an ideal place for parties and special functions.
CrescentRating: Not CrescentRated
Lunch- 11.30-15.00 and Dinner-17.00-23.00
Dai Ichi Tamaya Bldg., 2F, 3-6-11, Shinjuku, Shinjuku-ku Tokyo
03-3354-7947/ 03-6431-8803
info@bosphorushasan.com
1-11-7 Shinjuku | 1F, Shinjuku 160-0022, Tokyo Prefecture
1-19-3, Kabukicho, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo, 160-0021, Japan
Daini-Nissin Bld.2F, 7-10-20, Nishi-Shinjuku , Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo, 160-0023
Takashimaya Shinjuku Store, Tokyo 151-8580, Japan
Arabic Islamic Institute 3-4-18 Moto- azabu Minato- ku Tokyo 106-0046 Tokyo Japan
Otsuka Masjid 3-42-7 Minami Otsuka Toshima-Ku Tokyo 170-0005 Tokyo
Tokyo is the capital city of Japan, a bustling cosmopolitan city. With its modernity and well-preserved history, there are so many things you can do and see in Tokyo. Whether you travel solely for nature or to shop, Tokyo offers its visitor vast choices of shopping, entertainment, greenery, and culture. These different sides that you can find while exploring will surprise you and make your trip a memorable one. Japan, in general, is known to be an expensive country if you compare it to any other Asian country. No doubt, I must admit that it is true. But this shouldn't hinder you from visiting the country. With proper planning and sourcing out for the best itinerary that best suits your budget, you can enjoy the best out of what Tokyo has to offer. Booking accommodations in Tokyo might come as a surprise to you as it can be really costly. I am not a hostel person in general. But due to budget, I narrowed down my necessity and happened to stumble across hostels in Tokyo. Here are some of the hostels that you should book if you are visiting Tokyo!Also Read: Tokyo Olympics 2020 | 9 Out-Of-This-World Things You Need To Know 1. Bunka Hostels Tokyo Image Credit: Bunka Hostel; Conveniently located in Asakusa, a district filled with history and shopping streets. Bunka Hostels Tokyo is located in Asakusa, a district filled with history and shopping streets. A 5-minute walk from Asakusa station, this hotel's location makes it easy to navigate to the city center. This hostel is known for its contemporary concept combined with the Japanese element. Image Credit: Bunka Hostel; With an interior of clean and minimalist Japanese concept, Bunka Hostel is easily any backpacker's dream. The clean cuts of its furniture and the strong wood accent simply accentuate Japanese architecture. Image Credit: Bunka Hostel; The female dormitory is equipped with curtains and is kept separated from the male dormitories. This makes the hostel a safe and secure place for female travellers to stay in. You can choose from three different kinds of rooms; mixed dormitory, female dormitory and family room. Daily house-keeping and superb customer service will make your stay a comfortable and pleasant one. With exceptional reviews on most booking sites, there shouldn't be an excuse not to consider this as your accommodation! Plus points: Free Wi-Fi is available in all rooms inclusive of public areas. Laundromat and luggage storage may help in the planning of your itinerary if needed. A shared dining area is available on the top floor. Price per night: From SGD38 Address: 1-13-5, Asakusa, Taito-Ku, Tokyo 111-0032 Website | Facebook | Instagram 2. OakHostel Sakura Image Credit: Hotels of Tokyo; Oakhostels Sakura offers a dormitory room for female only. This is perfect for female travellers to Tokyo. Oakhostels Sakura is one of the hostels established under Oak Hotel. As this hostel is conveniently situated near Oshiage Station, you can easily add Tokyo Skytree as part of your ininerary. Apart from that, there is a direct train access from Narita Airport, making your journey from the airport an easier one. Oakhostels Sakura offers dormitory room; either mixed or female-only. You might want to check out their single room as I feel that it is slightly less expensive as compared to other hostels. Plus points: Free Wi-Fi is available in all rooms inclusive of public areas. Laundromat and luggage storage may also help in the planning of your itinerary if needed. A shared dining area is available and made free for use. Price per night: From SGD28Address: 4-6-9, Narihira, Sumida-Ku, Tokyo 130-0002 Website | Facebook 3. Mustard Hotel Shibuya Image Credit: Mustard Shibuya Hotel on Facebook; Mustard Shibuya Hotel is conveniently located near the city's entertainment street. Shibuya is known for its latest fashion and street culture. If you are looking to stay in a bustling town area like Shibuya, check out Mustard Hotel Shibuya. Opened in 2018, this hotel is situated in between of Shibuya Station and Ebisu Station. Mustard Shibuya Hotel is known for its collaboration with various artists in a program called "Creators in Mustard" to showcase various artworks and exhibitions. Image Credit: Mustard Shibuya Hotel; Mustard Shibuya Hotel offers rooms with a simple yet eye-catching design. Mustard Shibuya Hotel has a wide range of rooms to accomodate different needs and preferences of guests. You can choose from dormitory rooms to private rooms. The hotel's design is simple, yet functional; perfect for those who adore minimalist designs. Plus points: Free Wi-Fi is available in all rooms inclusive of public areas. Laundromat and luggage storage may help in the planning of your itinerary, if needed. A shared dining area is available and made free for use. There is also a bicycle rental service. If you're up for some thrill, you can even rent a skateboard, with its designs inspired by the Japanese culture. With all of these activities in store for you, you are sure to enjoy your stay at Mustard Shibuya Hotel. Price per night: From SGD44 Address: Shibuya Bridge B, 1-29-3 Higashi, Shibuya, Tokyo 150-0011 Website | Facebook | InstagramAlso Read: Check Out This New Muslim-Friendly Youth Hostel In Tokyo 4. Hostel Den Image Credit: Hostel Den on Agoda; Hostel Den gives off a modern feel with a traditional Japanese touch. Hostel Den is the first Muslim-friendly hostel, providing prayer rooms and also maps for Halal restaurants. The location of this hostel is smacked right in-between 5 different stations. Each of which is being used for different subway lines which makes your alternative mode of transportation vast. This hostel offered dormitory for mixed, male-only and female-only, and also private rooms with shared bathrooms. Plus points: Free Wi-Fi is available in all rooms inclusive of public areas. Laundromat and luggage storage may help in the planning of your itinerary if needed. A shared dining area is available and made free for use. There is also a portable Wi-Fi rental service provided. Price per night: From SGD32Address: 4-13-8, Nihonbashi-honcho, Chuo-Ku, Tokyo, Japan, 103-0023 Website | Facebook | Instagram 5. Sadou Hostel Image Credit: Sadou Hostel on Facebook; Sadou Hostel is a must-stay hostel if you are into Japanese culture. The rooms are modern and spacious, yet furnished with a tint of traditional Japanese elements. Located in the Ueno district, Sadou Hostel is based on the philosophy "Once in a lifetime opportunity." They offer various Japanese cultural events like tea ceremony, flower arrangement and calligraphy, to name a few. It is a must stay hostel if you want to learn more about Japanese culture as the rates tend to be cheaper as compared to other places. This hostel provides dormitory-style rooms; mixed, male and female. Plus points: Free Wi-Fi is available in all rooms inclusive of public areas. Laundromat and luggage storage may help in the planning of your itinerary if needed. A shared kitchen is available and made free for use. Price per night: From SGD44Address: 1-11-7, Higashiueno, Taito-Ku, Tokyo, 110-0015 Website | Facebook | Instagram 6. Beagle Tokyo Hostel & Apartments Image Credit: Beagle Tokyo Hostel & Apartments on Agoda; This Hostel has an interesting wooden interior design which is visually pleasing. This hostel is worth the mention despite being situated further away from the city area (and that is if you don't mind.) Located just 8-minutes away from Haneda airport, Beagle Hostels is suitable for guests with late-night flights as they provide a free airport shuttle. Do note that booking is required for this service. Also, the dormitory rooms are separated between males and females. You might want to check out the family room if you are traveling with your family. Interestingly, they provide a prayer mat for those staying in the family room! What are you waiting for? Check out this Muslim-friendly hostel now! Plus points: Free Wi-Fi is available in all rooms inclusive of public areas. Laundromat and luggage storage may help in the planning of your itinerary if needed. Price per night: From SGD40 Address: 1-15-16 Haneda, Ota-Ku, Tokyo, 144-0043 Website Also Read: If You're in Japan, Don't Miss Out on Mazulu Halal Beef Noodle Restaurant! With an abundance of hostels available in Tokyo, you will be spoilt for choices. Reading reviews will help you to narrow down the best hostels to stay in. I hope this list can help you to plan for your next trip to Tokyo!...
The world in 2019 is not what it used to be and, this year has changed how travel is looked at, as well as how people travel. Travel is almost a must now, and young people are flocking to amazing destinations all over the globe every day! via GIPHY 2019 has made a definite impact on travel, what with many things influencing trends and shifting the industry into places it has not been before. People are more enthusiastic about travel and their views on it are more open. Let’s check out some of the impactful travel trends for the year 2019. 1. ‘Instant Noodle’ trips Image Credit: Francesca Tirico on Unsplash It’s not about the weeklong trips or even month-long Europe tours anymore, the smaller the holiday the better! Mini holidays are trending now, and it is fun, practical, and inexpensive! These weekend trips are going to help local economies and boost the local travel scene. Many young people are opting for this kind of travel - spontaneous weekend gateways with friends to seaside towns or lake districts. 2019 is the best year to get your travel plans in full swing, with better-organized transport options and what with everyone owning a smartphone all you need is a bunch of friends, some cash, luggage and, Google maps! 2. Halal assurance with AR Image Capture: Halal Travel Frontier 2019 Report The world is getting more tech-based by the day, so why not rely on AR (Augmented Reality) to support you in finding Halal certified restaurants and eateries in the area? Due to a lack of Halal certification in Muslim majority and minority countries, travellers may find it difficult to verify if a restaurant is Halal or not. However, AR and AI (Artificial Intelligence) can help integrate information on restaurants in real-time making it easy for the user to easily spot Halal restaurants, food, or even ingredients without much hassle. This will also help vendors and restaurant owners to better communicate the availability of Halal food without the need to display the Halal certificate. Bonus tip: Using social media to ask for recommendations from your social circle is a trend as well, even referring to the CrescentRating rating system which indicates the level of Muslim friendliness of restaurants. 3. An Education Image Credit: Pang Yuhao on Unsplash More and more young people are opting for travelling abroad for higher studies instead of continuing in their homeland. This is because it can teach a person valuable lessons and independence. Some people are even saying that they’ll opt for travelling overspending on an expensive university as they can learn many things hands-on, like dealing with people and managing finances in a real-world setting. Some people may even opt for volunteer work abroad or even international work placements that will take them to different parts of the world. Working or studying abroad doesn’t always have to be all work and no play, you will get to experience different cultures, different cuisine, as well as mingle with the locals. Tip: Foreign exposure looks good on a CV! 4. Sustainable travel Photo Credit: Hamza Javaid on Unsplash Eco-friendly travel is a major trend right now! A lot of travellers are actively making it a point to reduce their carbon footprint and respect the destinations they travel to. It is important to dispose of trash responsibly or even reduce the number of plastics and other non-biodegradable packaging while travelling. A large percentage of people choose destinations which host environmentally focused events, as well as has hotels and resorts which are more eco-friendly. 5. Experience-based travel Photo Credit: Rana Sawalha on Unsplash Travellers are now looking for more curated travel experiences than the same old destination based holidays. People who are looking into comfort and nostalgia rank high on the list, as many travellers love experiences that make them feel like a child again. May it be an adventure, music festivals or even wildlife excursions – experience-oriented travel is a fast-growing trend. 6. Co-living Image Credit: Helena Lopes on Unsplash If you like to travel solo but want a safe living space where you can meet new people, co-living could be the best option for you. Airbnb may be a great option but it can be isolating at times, whereas co-living spaces allow you to rent a room with common social areas where you get live amongst likeminded people. This is a trend amongst young professionals and is a great way to start travelling solo if you are a beginner. Lyf by Ascott, a millennial centred project, will soon open three properties at Cebu City and Shenzen – most probably by the year 2021. Roam has co-living spaces in Bali, Miami, Tokyo, and San Francisco – they will be opening in New York and London soon. 7. Tech-savvy travel Image Credit: Christiann Koepke on Unsplash With everyone going digital, travel is also moving into digital territory. With AR and AI apps specifically designed to help travellers find good places to eat as well as where to stay at payment methods as well as checking in to airports are going to be more AI-based. BitPay is allowing businesses to accept bitcoins as payment instead of traditional money; this will revolutionize travel as we know it. Airports are trying to introduce more versatile, computerised immigration and customs facilities as it will cut down travel time within an airport in half. VR is being used to train Muslims in Umrah and Hajj rituals before leaving for the pilgrimage. VR will allow people to have more thorough training experience as a certain step and rites that are to be observed will be taught as an immersive experience. This will ensure that they will have a fulfilling experience on the trip. 8. A rise in female Muslim travellers Image Capture: Muslim Women in Travel 2019 Report There is a growing trend in female Muslim travellers, women want to go out there and explore and learn about the world around them. Many are highly educated and financially independent, with families that support their decision to travel. The travel market is starting to be more women-centric and therefore things like safety and activities specific to women are beginning to grow. There aren’t as many risks with security and family disapproval for women travellers as there used to be. So venture out and have fun! 9. Dark tourism Image Credit: Yves Alarie on Unsplash A burgeoning market for ‘dark’ tourism is gaining fame, what with Netflix’s series “Dark Tourist” focusing on this aspect of travel. Dark tourism focuses on historically significant places like the Holocaust Museum and Chernobyl (nuclear disaster). People are flocking to these sites to learn about the history and how these errors have affected the world at large. 10. Solo travel Image Credit: Andrew Ly on Unsplash A new trend amongst Millenials and Gen-Z folks, solo travel is starting to be popular, as well as important. Trips aren’t all about fun anymore, it’s about the experience as a whole and what a person can learn and bring back with them. It’s not just memories to last a lifetime it’s also experience! Travel trends are shifting fast and soon we will even be able to travel to space! The trends are catering to younger generations and now, and everything is not about business trips anymore. Travel is more focused on experience and fun – now that you know the travel trends for 2019 plan your next trip and begin your adventure! via GIPHY...
Did you know that Hong Kong is the world's fourth-most densely populated place in the world? With a population of over 7 million, this bustling territory almost never sleeps as there is always something to do that will feed your curiosity. You could witness historical religious monuments, splurge on exclusive local brands from over 10 shopping malls and pleasure your tastebuds with a range of cuisines served at Hong Kong’s wide number of Halal eateries. So if you’re in the midst of planning your next dream vacation, here are 10 reasons why you should consider Hong Kong. via GIPHY 1. Visit Hong Kong’s Neighbouring Cities Image Credit: Kychan on Unsplash; Traveling to Hong Kong’s neighbouring cities is such a breeze with more than one way to get to these cities. Travelers can easily get on a train, a ferry, a bus or even a flight to these cities. Once you’ve landed in Asia, Hong Kong is definitely an ideal stop to make! As Hong Kong is one of the world’s busiest aviation hubs, this makes it pretty easy to find a direct flight in or out of the destination. Furthermore, as Hong Kong is situated in the Southern district of China, it serves as a perfect layover holiday before you head over to Southeast Asia. If you’re looking at a longer stay in Hong Kong, take a trip down to its neighbouring cities – ShenZhen and Macau. These cosmopolitan cities are constantly on the lists of those traveling to Hong Kong since it is so simple to get yourself across the border. Today, one can board a 20 minutes train ride on the Guangzhou-Shenzhen-Hong Kong Express Rail Link (XRL) or a 45 minutes metro ride on the East Rail Line. While the train is the most popular mode of transport, some may prefer private operated shuttle buses, a ferry ride from Hong Kong Macau Ferry Terminal to Shekou Cruise Port or a flight up to Shenzhen Airport. Also Read: All Set For The Best Deals In Seoul? Check Out These Top 5 Night Markets in Seoul, South KoreaTravel With Us!: The Best of Tokyo and Osaka In 7 Nights 2. Ease of Public Transport Image Credit: Photo by Chapman Chow on Unsplash According to an article written by Daniel Szuc, it is estimated that over 90% of the 7.4 million people living in Hong Kong use public transport. This record only proves the efficiency of public transport in Hong Kong. When you’re in Hong Kong, the first thing you want to get yourself is the Octopus card. Opting for the weekly or travelers’ passes would save you a ton when you’re traveling on public transport in Hong Kong. If you’re traveling via public transport for only a part of your trip, perhaps you might want to pay as you go. However, getting the passes would mean skipping the queue at the ticketing counter when it gets busy in the train stations. Top up some cash in your Octopus cards and you’ll find yourself using it almost everywhere. This includes the binoculars at Victoria’s Peak, convenience stores and vending machines. Whip out your Octopus cards and tap away for their trains, trams, and on the Star Ferry across the Victoria Harbour. At the end of your trip, bring it home as a souvenir or return the Octopus card at the Customer Service Centre at the airport or any MTR station to get a refund of HK$50 and the remaining value. 3. Variety of Halal food options Feast on the best of Hong Kong's local cuisine when you're in Hong Kong – Dim Sum! Head down to Islamic Centre Canteen when you're in town. Tip! Make sure to have Dim Sum in the morning. The Hongkongers eat Dim Sum as breakfast so don’t come in the afternoon after all the good food is almost gone! Put your worry about the availability of Halal food at rest when you’re in Hong Kong! #Alhamdulillah What we love most about Hong Kong is that there are Muslim-owned and Halal-Certified restaurants serving local cantonese cuisines in every district. Travelers might have to do quite a bit of walking looking for it, but once you got the location right, trust us, it’s so worth it! You’ll find a plethora of Halal restaurants serving the Cantonese cuisine, Turkish cuisine, Indian cuisine and Indonesian cuisine. We’ve got three Halal food spots that are essential to visit when you’re in Hong Kong. Islamic Center Canteen As cliche as it sounds, no matter what your itinerary is when you are visiting Hong Kong, it is a must to dine in at Islamic Center Canteen. Located at the 5th floor of the Osman Ramju Sadick Islamic Center, the food here is definitely affordable with Dim Sum dishes starting at HKD13. Halal Status: Halal-CertifiedAddress: 5/F, Masjid Ammar and Osman Ramju Sadick Islamic Centre, 40 Oi Kwan Road, Wan Chai, Hong Kong IslandOpening Hours: 10am - 9pm Wai Kee Wai Kee is another recommended eatery that you should visit when you are in Hong Kong. This is the place for you to get your roasted duck rice fix for HKD38. It will keep you coming back for more. Halal Status: Muslim-OwnedAddress: Stall #5 Bowrington Cooked Food Centre 1/F Bowrington Road Market, 23 Bowrington Road, Wan Chai, Hong KongOpening Hours: 10am - 6pm Ma’s Restaurant Ma's Restaurant is a restaurant serving Xinjiang cuisine. It will definitely leave you spoilt for choice with its menus. This is also one of the only restaurants where you can taste authentic Halal braised beef brisket noodle (HKD50), and the most recommended side is Veal Goulash (HKD42).Halal Status: Halal-CertifiedAddress: Shop A, 21-25 Cheung Sha Wan Road, Sham Shui Po, Hong KongOpening Hours: 11.30am - 11pm You best believe this is just the cherry on top of Hong Kong’s Halal food scene. There are more than 70 Halal restaurants in this city so be sure to plan your itinerary wisely and get a taste of the local cuisines in Hong Kong! Also Read: Never Go Hungry in Hong Kong With These 25 Halal Food Places 4. Keeping Our Prayers On Track Image Credit: Photo by Joshua J. Cotten on Unsplash According to a survey done in 2016, there are approximately 300,000 Muslims living in Hong Kong, making up 4.1% of its population. The Muslims in Hong Kong are of many races such as Chinese, Indonesian and Pakistani, with a vast majority of them being Sunni Muslims. Hong Kong has a total of five official mosques, with the largest mosque being Kowloon Mosque and Islamic Centre, which can accommodate up to 3,500 people. The Kowloon Mosque was founded in 1896, initially built for the Indian Muslim troops of the British army to perform their religious duties. This square mosque consists of 4 minarets, white marble on its facade and flooring, a pink roof and a large dome on top. The four other mosques in this territory include Masjid Ammar and Osman Ramju Sadick Islamic Centre, Jamia Mosque, Chai Wan Mosque and Stanley Mosque. Apart from these mosques, one can find prayer rooms and spaces in major tourist attractions like Hong Kong Disneyland and Oceanpark. 5. Dazzling Lights and Towering Skyscrapers According to the Guinness World Records, Hong Kong is by far the world’s tallest urban agglomeration, as the total height of all its skyscrapers, exceeding 330 kilometres. With a variety of skyscrapers decorating the harbour, Hong Kong is known for having one of the most impressive skylines. The night-time especially brings out the beautiful side of its skyline as the differentcoloured lights adorn the waterfront of Victoria Peak. More so, as of December 2005, Hong Kong broke yet another Guinness World Record for the “Largest Permanent Light and Sound Show”. This 10-minute show is called A Symphony of Lights and begins every night at 8pm. It showcases a dazzling display of visual effects as lasers and flashes illuminate the night sky, accompanied by uplifting music. It’s definitely a show that you don’t want to miss while you’re in Hong Kong! At the end of the show, you can head off to popular hotspots like Lan Kwai Fong and SoHo for a vibrant night-time experience. On the other hand, if you’re looking for a calmer experience, you may take a night cruise along Victoria Harbour or visit Temple Street Night Market where you can purchase antiques and tea ware as souvenirs for your loved ones back home. Also Read: 6 Best Boutique Hotels & Hostels to Stay in Hong Kong! 6. This Is Where Street Art Comes Alive Image Credit: Lysander Yuen on Unsplash Hong Kong has an array of vibrant street art where you can get your perfect OOTD (Outfit of the Day) shots. It's not hard to find them as they are aptly named Art Lane and features colourful murals painted on old buildings, and encompasses the theme of both art and music. Also, nestled among one of Hong Kong’s busiest neighbourhoods lies Public Square Street. This mural spot features stairs which are painted with bright yellow, blue and red floral designs - perfect for an Insta-worthy shot. Another street art spot worth mentioning is Sing Lei Mahjong Parlour, located in the heart of Temple Street Market. It features striking caricatures of political leaders playing a humorous game of mahjong. Also Read: According to Hong Kong's Street Photographers, These Are The Best Places to Capture Hong Kong 7. Muslim-Friendly Attractions Nothing beats a family day out and about in Hong Kong’s best theme parks. Relive your childhood dreams and spend the day at Hong Kong Disneyland. Worrying about Halal food? There are Halal-Certified restaurants and food kiosks in Hong Kong Disneyland. And! Prayer room can be found within the theme park next to the Tahitian Terrace Restaurant (Halal). In all honesty, you don’t need to be a child to enjoy Hong Kong’s theme parks. There is always something in store for each age group. Hong Kong Disneyland is where you want to be if you’re looking for an enchanting getaway on your trip to Hong Kong. Stay for a night or two in their resort and be surrounded with everything that makes your inner child happy. A total fan of thrilling rides? Ocean Park’s forte is definitely just that. The 40-year-old theme park may look old-fashioned on the outside but you definitely don’t want to miss this theme park when you’re in Hong Kong. First of all, this theme park is HUGE. Make a run for their classics like the Hair Raiser, The Flash, The Mine Train and The Dragon. When it’s time, stop by for prayers within the park itself. Simply head to the Guest Relation Office and the staff will assist you to the prayer room. Fuel up at Ocean Park’s Halal-Certified restaurants – Cafe Ocean, Dive Into A Float at Marina World and Panda Cafe Food To Go at Amazing Asian Animals. Tip! Bring along your prayer garments and pocket sejadahs. You’ll find the Qibla direction marked in the room. You can perform your wudhu in the nearby washrooms. In the evening, board the Bauhinia Harbour Cruises and enjoy the spectacular view of the Victoria Harbour. Named after the flower city of Hong Kong, Bauhinia, the Bauhinia Harbour Cruises lets you in on the vessels which has been a part of Hong Kong’s public transportation system. Dine Bauhinia Harbour Cruises’ Halal menu on board or take in the fresh air on the upper deck. Tip! The Bauhinia Harbour Cruises stops at the North Point and the Hung Hom Pier. For more information, visit www.cruise.com.hk 8. Enjoy The Best Of What Nature Has To Offer Credit: @hannyg_3 on Instagram Despite its small size, Hong Kong still manages to preserve its natural landscapes. Whether it's stretches of beaches or the mountainous regions, tourists and civilians can enjoy hikes, walks and swimming. The Hong Kong Global Geopark is a large area with unique rock formations offering grand landscapes. There is also Kowloon Park for bird watchers, picnics and relaxation. A few beaches include Big Wave Bay Beach, Repulse Bay Beach and Mui Wo and SilverMine Bay Beach. Surrounded by hills, greenery and mountains, the beaches are rich in blue and green natural landscapes. Take a day out of your itinerary and hike the Dragon’s Back while you’re in Hong Kong. The hike will land you on the beautiful Big Wave Bay. During the hike, you’ll be able to see the panorama view of the city’s coastline. The Dragon’s Back will definitely get your heart pumping but feel free to take it slow and go at your own pace. 9. History and Culture Image Credit: Photo by Jason Cooper on Unsplash Can you believe that the first inhabitants settled into Hong Kong during the late Stone Age? That’s almost 9 centuries ago! Today, Hong Kong is filled with plenty of unique treasures, namely its 34-metre tall ‘Big Buddha’ which sits at the Po Lin monastery, and its modern temples like the Wong Tai Sin Temple which serves as a home for three religions - Taoism, Buddhism, and Confucianism. Getting Here! Board the MTR Train and alight at Tung Chung Station, Exit B. You’ll find the Citygate Outlet Mall just outside the train station. Walk further ahead toward the Ngong Ping Cable Car Terminal and get on the 25-min cable car ride to Ngong Ping 360. Alternatively, board bus 23 from Tung Chung Station for a 50-min ride to the Ngong Ping Bus Terminus. Other historical sites worth mentioning are Haw Par Mansions which incorporates both Chinese and Western elements in its architectural style, and Kamikaze Cave which used to be occupied by Japanese forces during World War II. Take a trip down to the Hong Kong Museum of History and envision how the early settlers had arrived in Hong Kong in a junk ship. Dig deep and learn about the development and modernization of Hong Kong under the British colony. Don’t miss the Kowloon City Walled Park when you’re in Hong Kong and witness how this city was once known as the most densely populated place on the planet. The city had 35,000 people packed into small apartments. However, keep listening to the stories of those who lived here. Their living conditions may seem bizarre but the people of Kowloon, they were happy. 10. Saying Yes To Night Markets Image Credit: Photo by Annie Spratt on Unsplash Lastly, Hong Kong wouldn’t be as joyful and euphoric without the people who call it home. Whether you’re up at 5am watching locals practice Tai Chi or sitting at a food street stall in the evening, you can expect a local who will initiate friendly conversations with you, whether you speak the same language or not. More so, even if you get lost, the locals will be more than willing to help you find your way. Just be sure to get yourself ready with some Cantonese phrases! Tip! Here's your Cantonese phrases cheat sheet: m.discoverhongkong.com/seasia/muslim-friendly/phrase-sheet.jsp There is so much more to explore in the city of Hong Kong. Hong Kong has grown tremendously over the years. Discover the nook and crannies of Hong Kong and experience a different side of Hong Kong. via GIPHY...
Ryokans and Onsens are a vital part of Japanese culture. It is a tradition of communal bathing that dates back to many years. In the Japanese culture, this is a very rejuvenating experience, and you can find many ryokans around Japan which offer a private experience – and is Muslim friendly! via GIPHY Ryokans are Japanese inns which provides more than just a place to sleep in. It offers the full traditional Japanese experience of relaxation. You will find rooms with tatami floors, futon beds and hot spring baths. Hot springs have a lot of health benefits – from healing skin problems, boosting blood circulation, to relieving pain – there are many! Guests are also required to change into the traditional yukata and enjoy Japanese cuisine. With much of Japan tourism taking an initiative to be more Muslim friendly, you will find that there are some ryokans which offer Halal services. Keep reading to find out which Muslim-friendly ryokan you will want to book a stay in.Also Read: Japan's Most Aesthetic Hostels You Need To Check Out 1. Risshisha Machiya Hotels Image Credit: 立志社 Risshisa Ryokan on Facebook Easily one of the best ryokan chains in Kyoto, the Risshisha Machiya emphasizes on traditional comfort and innovation. The best part is that it has been Crescent rated! Image Credit: 立志社 Risshisa Ryokan on Facebook Their ryokans have elegant wooden furnishings and are designed in the traditional minimalistic Japanese way but with modern sensitivities, which makes these ryokans stand out from the rest. All you have to do is sit back and relax in your yukata, while enjoying some much needed “me time”. Image Credit: 立志社 Risshisa Ryokan on Facebook The hotel chain has introduced Halal friendly services into their list of facilities; every room in the ryokans are equipped with prayer mats, the Qibla mark, Qibla compass, prayer clothes, as well as a special tableware for Muslim guests. They have also introduced a Halal menu that has been approved by the Japan Islamic Trust. They offer Gyudon Rice – which is a rice bowl with seasoned beef. Also up on their menu is the Butter Chicken Curry with Rice, Vegetable Penne, as well as Japanese Mochi stuffed with assorted flavours like matcha, mango and brown sugar. You will find that Risshisha ryokans are situated conveniently close to Kyoto attractions, so that you can easily access the hotel after a day of exploring. The ryokans are also close to the Kyoto train station; if you are travelling by train you will be able to reach the hotel within 5 – 10 minutes. Address: Kyoto Headquarters, 279, Shimochofukuji-cho, Shimogyo-ku, Kyoto, 600-8375, Japan Website | Facebook | Instagram 2. Sato-Yu Mukashibanashi Yuzanso Image Credit: Yuzanso Yuzanso offers a more traditional ryokan experience. Located near Japan’s largest lake, Lake Biwa, surrounded by nature all around; you will be able to witness stunning vistas. The Shiga prefecture hot spring has a history dating back 1200 years! It doesn’t get more authentic than this. Image Credit: Yuzanso The hotel has 109 rooms with 53 rooms coming with your very own private open-air hot spring bath – privacy and luxury! Yuzanso has an indoor public hot spring bath as well as an open-air public hot spring bath for all guests, with separate bath areas for men and women. The open-air baths are made with Cedarwood and both the men and women’s bath areas are equipped with a jet bath and sauna. Image Credit: Yuzanso Yuzanso is part of the Muslim-friendly travel movement happening in Japan and they have added Halal services to their facilities to accommodate Muslim guests. They have included a Halal menu, and ensured that their food has been prepared without any non-Halal ingredients. They have a big breakfast spread with a wide variety of food, as well as a Japanese style crab cuisine during winter. The hotel is located in the Shiga Prefecture which is 20 minutes away from the Kyoto Prefecture; you can get to the hotel by taking a train to Ogoto-Onsen station. The hotel offers free transport from the Ogoto-Onsen station; you can inform them first before reaching the station, and they will send a shuttle bus to pick you up. There are quite a few sights to see in Shiga – you can head to the Biwako Terrace a resort which offers stunning views of Lake Biwa and its surrounding areas, a great place for a photo op. Don’t forget to pay a visit to the Mangetsuji Temple which is home to the Ukimido or “Floating Temple” on Lake Biwa. Once you are done at Shiga head over to Kyoto for more sightseeing as that is where most of the attractions are. Address: Ogoto 1-9-28, Otsu-shi, Shiga 520-0101, Japan Website | Facebook | Instagram 3. Kyoto Garden Ryokan Yachiyo Image Credit: Kyoto Garden Ryokan Yachiyo on Facebook Image Credit: Kyoto Garden Ryokan Yachiyo on FacebookSituated in Nanzen-ji area of Kyoto, home to stately villas from the Meiji period of Japan, the Kyoto Garden Ryokan Yachiyo will not disappoint. Image Credit: Kyoto Garden Ryokan Yachiyo on FacebookThey have a total of 18 rooms, with 6 of them being private suites equipped with their own hot spring water bath. The rooms located at their main building, Honkan, overlook the beautiful garden with its intricate landscaping in the traditional Japanese way. This hotel does not offer any Halal facilities; however, you can opt for their Washouku Vegetarian course. Just because it's a vegetarian course doesn't mean you can't enjoy the taste of Japanese cuisine as it is delicately prepared in the traditional Japanese style of cooking by balancing both the Ying and Yang, so that guests can enjoy the authentic Japanese taste. Other than chilling in your suite all day, you can pay a visit to some of the attractions in the area which is just a 5-minute walk to Nanzenji Temple, Eikando Temple and, the Heian Jingu Shrine. Address: Kyoto Garden ryokan Yachiyo, 34, Nanzenji Fukuji-cho, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto-shi, Kyoto, 606-8435, Japan Website | Facebook | InstagramAlso Read: Forest Bathing: Relax, Rejuvenate & Recharge With Nature When You're In Japan 4. Sumiya Kiho-an Image Credit: Sumiya Kiho-an on FacebookThis ryokan emphasizes stylish and elegant luxury. Nestled within the suburbs of Kyoto away from the hustle and bustle of the city, Sumiya Kiho-an is the perfect place to relax and release all of that stress.Image Credit: Sumiya Kiho-an on FacebookMuch like other ryokans, they are equipped with tatami mats and futons. However, they have included the added luxury of kotatsu – tables with heaters. Their suites come with private onsens, directly sourced from the Yunohana Hot Springs. Image Credit: Sumiya Kiho-anThey also offer a half-day or one-day onsen experience, so if you just want to get a brief glimpse into relaxing the Japanese way, you can go for these packages especially if you aren’t staying in Kyoto for long. You can even opt for a spa day to get rid of weariness from travelling as this Sumiya Kiho-an offers 30-minute packages. Since the ryokan is located in the suburbs of Kyoto, you will not be too far from the main attractions in Kyoto. Address: 25 Miyanooku Hiedanocho Kakihana, Kameoka 621-0036, Kyoto Prefecture, Japan Website | Facebook | Instagram 5. Otaru-Kourakuen Image Credit: Otaru-KourakuenOtaru-Kourakuen is surrounded by a beautiful garden boasting of 100-year-old trees and 200 cherry blossom trees! Definitely a sight not to be missed. Image Credit: Otaru-KourakuenThe hotel consists of 35 rooms, of which only 28 have a private open-air hot-spring bath. However, if you have booked a room without one, you can always opt for the private onsen on the second floor via a reservation from the front desk. Image Credit: Otaru-KourakuenOtaru-Kourakuen offers Muslim-Friendy service – they offer a prayer rug, Kiblah direction, as well as a map of all prayer spaces and Halal shops within Otaru for the ease of their Muslim guests. They also offer Halal breakfast and dinner! You can choose between a Halal Shabu Shabu Hot Pot and 2 Halal course meals of varying prices. Otaru is full of things to see and do – activities vary from season to season. There is a happening arts and crafts scene – especially glassware – as well as activities like skiing, for all the adrenaline junkies. Note that they need at least 3 days advanced booking for Muslim guests to ensure they are provided with the best Halal-friendly service. Address: 18-2, Shinko 5, Otaru, 047-0152, Hokkaido, Japan Website | Facebook | Instagram 6. Kansuiro Ryokan and Onsen Image Credit: Selected Onsen RyokanLocated in the famed resort town of Hakone, Kansuiro Ryokan is only 2 hours away from the bustling city of Tokyo and is a safe haven for those wanting to escape the city.Image Credit: Selected Onsen RyokanThe hotel is a beautiful Taisho era architectural masterpiece – step into the charming resort and get transported back in time! Their baths are in the Kakenagashi style – which means that the water is not recycled, but is fresh and comes straight from the source. They have also taken extra care in giving you an exclusive experience by regulating the quality and temperature of the water. The hotel provides a wide variety of rooms to choose from; each designed to make you feel at home and as relaxed as possible in the traditional Japanese way. They do not offer any specific Muslim friendly services, but you can always opt for their vegetarian meal course. Be sure to inform them when making your reservation. While there you can check out the Hakone Open-air Museum, Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park, and Owakudani Geothermal Valley. Address: 88, Tonosawa, Hakone-machi, Ashigara-Shimogun, Kanagawa, 250-0315, Japan Website 7. Kashiwaya Ryokan Image Credit: Kashiwaya RyokanYou will find this ryokan nestled in the mountain valley of Shima – a picturesque hot spring town just 3 hours outside of Tokyo. A Hot Spring hotspot amongst the locals, but not so much with the tourists – it will offer you the authentic countryside onsen experience you have been looking for. Image Credit: Kashiwaya RyokanThis ryokan has a more casual setting but has all the authentic ryokan elements such as tatami floors and paper screens. They have 15 guestrooms, and you can opt to have a dip in either your own hot spring bath or go for any of their 3 private outdoor onsens. They do not offer any Halal facilities however, but you can choose their vegetarian menu when ordering food. Address: Kashiwaya ryokan, 3829 Shima, Nakanojo Agatuma-gun Gunma 377-0601, Japan Website | Facebook | InstagramAlso Read: Tokyo Olympics 2020 | 9 Out-Of-This-World Things You Need To Know If you are looking for an authentic Japanese experience – then booking a stay at any of the above ryokans will fulfil that for you. So start planning your Japanese ryokan vacation now! ...
After their first outlet at Jimbocho, Mazulu Halal Beef Noodle has opened their second outlet at one of the busiest stations in Japan, Tokyo Station. The Mazulu Halal Beef Noodle Tokyo Station has also been rated AAA by CrescentRating. At the Mazulu Halal Beef Noodle Tokyo Station, no alcohol is served in the premises. Mazulu Halal Beef Noodle is certified by the Nippon Asia Halal Association (NAHA) of Japan. Image Credit: Mazulu Halal Beef Noodle What makes the Tokyo Station different from the outlet at Jimbocho is that at this outlet, there are nine types of noodle to choose from – Futome no sankakumen (Thick and Triangular Noodle) Sankakumen (Triangular Noodle) Gokubuto no hiramen (Extremely Thick Noodle) Futome no hiramen (Wide and Flat Noodle) Hiramen (Thin and Flat Noodle) Futomen (Thick Noodle) Chuubutomen (Medium Thickness Noodle) Hosomen (Thin Noodle) Gokuhosomen (Extremely Thin Noodle) Image Credit: Mazulu Halal Beef Noodle At Mazulu, every bowl of beef noodle is made from scratch. From the hand-pulled Lamian (a type of Chinese noodles) to the hot beef broth made by simmering beef bones with 10 different medicinal spices for hours. Top it off with coriander, leaf garlic, and thinly sliced beef. This bowl of goodness can make you feel right at home or could perhaps have you gulping gallons of water if you're not careful with their Chinese chilli oil. But from our experience, it's not that bad! via GIPHY If you're stopping by Mazulu Halal Beef Noodle Tokyo Station and have yet to perform your prayers, the restaurant is located just minutes away from a nearby prayer space at the JR East Travel Service Center. Location: JR East Travel Service Center, Marunouchi North Gate, Tokyo Station BuildingAvailable Time: 08:30 AM to 07:00 PM (Weekdays), 08:30 AM to 05:00 PM (Weekends & Public Holidays) Background Story via GIPHY Takeru Seino, the manager of Mazulu Halal Beef Noodle Restaurant had actually gone to Lanzhou to look for a Lamian stall that would be willing to train him to make Lamian noodles. During his study in Beijing, he had fallen in love with the dish after tasting it for the first time while he was in Beijing. It was after multiple failed attempts of trying of recreating Lamian noodles that he finally resorted to taking a trip to Lanzhou to get himself professionally trained. After much persuasion, Mazulu agreed to train him and he finally mastered the skill of handcrafting these noodles to perfection and later opened his own shop in Japan. Indeed every strand of Lanzhou lamian is a work of art by craftsmen. Address: GranTokyo South Tower B1F, 1-9-2 Marunouchi, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo 100-6690Opening Hours: 11:00 AM to 10:30 PM (Mon-Sat) 11:00 AM to 09:30 PM (Sundays, Public Holidays) *Note: The store will close when the broth is sold outContact No.: +81-3-6268-0323 Directions from Tokyo Station 3 minutes walk to Yurakucho area, after exiting Yaesu South Exit Website ...
Prayer times for Tokyo,Japan