How to hack a hotel room upgrade with two words.
Ask for a corner room of any hotel, and they’re generally bigger. Think about how they utilize the space in a building: the corner suites are usually bigger than the middle suites, and more interesting, too: You get better views. [Ed note: they also may be more expensive.]
Sure, Tokyo is fine, but Atherton’s favorite spot in Japan is more offbeat.
Visiting Hokkaido for skiing in the winter is stunning. Half way up the mountain, there are snow monkeys bathing in the hot springs while you ski past them. And it’s where Japanese ramen originated—and you can tell why. Nothing beats enjoying a steaming bowl of miso ramen whilst looking out over the snow, especially with some hot sake.
Anywhere in Japan, there’s a rule for picking a good restaurant: The tinier, the better, with room for 8 or 12 people [maximum]. And because they’re so small, you must, must, must book in advance or you won’t get in. It’s not like in Europe or the States, where they’ll find you a space. If there’s no space, you’re not eating. Try Sobadokoro Raikuchi or Ryunabe, which looks like a dump. You’ll get there and go, “My God, this Jason Atherton is off his head.” But eat the hot pot there, and it will blow your mind.
This article was provided by Bloomberg News.