Season

Winter Events and Highlights at Meiji Shrine

Meiji Shrine, located in the heart of Tokyo near Harajuku, is one of the city’s most significant Shinto shrines. Surroun...
Kamakura

Hōkoku-ji: Kamakura’s Serene Bamboo Temple Hidden in the Hills

Located on the quieter eastern side of Kamakura, Hōkoku-ji—often called the “Bamboo Temple”—is one of the city’s most pe...
Culture

How Japan Welcomes the New Year: Traditions, Spirit, and Celebration

In Japan, the transition from one year to the next—known as toshikoshi—is one of the most significant cultural moments o...
Culture

Does Japan Celebrate Thanksgiving? Understanding Japan’s View on the Holiday and Its Unique Seasonal Traditions

Thanksgiving is widely known as a major holiday in the United States and Canada, celebrated with family gatherings, feas...
Kamakura

The Great Buddha of Kamakura: A Timeless Icon of Japan

Among all the historic sights in Kamakura, the Great Buddha of Kamakura, located at Kōtoku-in Temple, stands as one of J...
Trip

etstar vs. ANA vs. JAL: A Simple Comparison for Travelers

When choosing a flight in Japan, many travelers compare low-cost carriers like Jetstar with full-service airlines such a...
Yadoya's family's travel diary

The Comeback of Notojima Aquarium: A Story of Damage, Recovery, and Marine Wonder

If you’ve ever visited Ishikawa Prefecture in Japan’s Noto Peninsula, you may have heard of Notojima Aquarium. Nestled o...
Sports

A Perfect Day of Snowboarding at Mt. Yakebitai Ski Resort

There are some days in winter when everything seems to align—the weather, the snow conditions, and the company of loved ...
Trip

Japan itinerary 7 days“Japan’s Nature & Culture Escape for First-Time Travelers

Nature + Cities (Tokyo → Hakone → Kyoto) — 7-Day Japan Itinerary for First-Time TravelersIf you want a Japan trip that b...
Restaurants and shops

Discovering Japan’s 100-Yen Shops: Affordable Treasures for Every Traveler

When people think of Japan, images of futuristic technology, traditional shrines, and world-class cuisine often come to ...