I'm a Japanese living in Osaka
Introducing delicious foods and sightseeing spots in Japan, and posting articles related to investment as a side business.
The stories of the cafes, restaurants, shops, sightseeing spots, etc. that you stopped by are described without hiding them, so please take a look again.
Updated: Every Friday (restaurant / travel)
Today, we visited Marushin Hanten, a long-established Chinese restaurant located in Kyoto’s Higashiyama Ward.
Loved by locals for years, this spot is especially known as a "late-night savior" thanks to its extended hours. I’ll be sharing a report on their famous Tenshinhan (crab omelet rice), Twice-Cooked Pork, gyoza, and ramen—all full of irresistible flavor!
◆ Restaurant Info
Name: Marushin Hanten
Address: 431-3 Nanseikaiko-cho, Higashiyama-ku, Kyoto City, Kyoto Prefecture
Access: Just a short walk from Higashiyama Station on the Tozai subway line
Hours: 11:00 AM – 6:00 AM (Subject to change)
◆ Specialty: Meltingly Soft Tenshinhan
The star of the show at Marushin Hanten is undoubtedly their Tenshinhan—a fluffy omelet draped in a generous helping of sweet-and-sour sauce over rice.
As you cut into the omelet, warm and tender rice is revealed underneath. The sauce is perfectly balanced and enhances the dish beautifully. It's so light yet flavorful, you’ll finish the whole bowl before you know it. No wonder it’s their #1 bestseller!
◆ Flavorful Twice-Cooked Pork That Pairs Perfectly with Rice
Another popular dish is their Twice-Cooked Pork (Hoikoro).
The rich miso sauce clings deliciously to the pork, paired with crisp cabbage for a dish that demands a side of steamed rice. While it’s a staple of Chinese cuisine, Marushin Hanten’s version stands out thanks to expert preparation and deep umami.
◆ Crispy and Juicy Gyoza
You can’t skip the gyoza!
Perfectly seared with a crispy bottom and chewy top, each dumpling bursts with savory juices when bitten into. They’re just the right size for a side dish, and dipping them in a vinegar-heavy sauce gives a refreshingly tangy twist.
◆ Nostalgic and Comforting Ramen
Their ramen is another must-try.
Clear, soy sauce-based broth filled with traditional toppings like sliced pork, bean sprouts, and green onions makes for a heartwarming bowl of noodles. It’s simple, yet masterfully executed—ideal as a lunch dish or after-drinks comfort food.
◆ Final Thoughts
Marushin Hanten offers the perfect blend of authentic Chinese techniques and Japanese flavor profiles—making it a true gem among local “machi-chuka” (town Chinese) restaurants.
Whether it’s the famous Tenshinhan, the robust Hoikoro, the juicy gyoza, or the nostalgic ramen, every dish hits the mark. And with its late-night hours, it’s perfect for night owls or travelers looking for an authentic local experience.
If you're visiting Kyoto, don’t miss the chance to enjoy some top-tier Chinese comfort food at Marushin Hanten!
Today, I visited an Italian restaurant in Esaka, Osaka, called "Cotton Esaka."
Restaurant Information
Name: Cotton Esaka
Address: 10-22 Toyotsu-cho, Suita-shi, Osaka
The stylish and relaxing interior makes it a perfect spot for dates, girls' nights out, or family meals. The staff was very attentive, allowing us to enjoy our meal in a comfortable setting.
Dishes We Ordered
Assorted Appetizers
Price: ¥1,738
A visually stunning appetizer platter offering a variety of flavors on one plate. It featured prosciutto, cheese, marinated vegetables, bagna cauda, and more—a diverse selection that was simply delightful. Each ingredient was fresh and paired perfectly with wine.
Chewy Gnocchi Gratin
Price: ¥935
Gnocchi covered in a rich cheese and white sauce—absolutely delicious! True to its name, it had a wonderfully chewy texture, and despite its creaminess, it wasn’t overpowering. A perfect dish, especially for the colder seasons.
Price: ¥2,310
The combination of mentaiko (spicy cod roe) and creamy avocado created a fantastic flavor balance. The slightly spicy mentaiko sauce added a nice kick, blending perfectly with the cheese.
The Genovese pizza had an irresistible aroma that enhanced our appetite. The juiciness of the homemade sausage and the salty notes from the olives were just right, resulting in a simple yet deeply flavorful dish. The half & half option allowed us to enjoy two different flavors in one meal, which was a great bonus!
Final Thoughts
"Cotton Esaka" truly impressed us with its high-quality ingredients and well-balanced flavors. Both the pizza and gratin were especially delightful, making them must-tries for cheese lovers!
If you're looking for a delicious Italian restaurant in the Esaka area, I highly recommend this place!
If you are interested, please follow the site and register the video below.
