Nikko

Nikkō Tōshō-gū: A Timeless Shrine of Art, Spirituality, and Japanese History

Hidden within the deep cedar forests of Tochigi Prefecture, Nikkō Tōshō-gū stands as one of Japan’s most magnificent and...
Food

Marugen Ramen: Discovering the Soulful Taste of Japan’s “Meat Soba”

When travelers think of Japanese ramen, images of tonkotsu broth from Hakata, miso ramen from Hokkaido, or shoyu ramen f...
Restaurants and shops

Matsu-no-ya: A Comforting Taste of Tonkatsu in Everyday Japan

When it comes to Japanese food, many travelers think first of sushi, ramen, or tempura. But if you truly want to experie...
Trip

A Guide to Accommodation in Japan for International Travelers

When visiting Japan, choosing the right type of accommodation can make a big difference in your travel experience. Japan...
Sports

The Best Places to Go Skiing in Japan: A Guide for Winter Travelers

Japan is one of the world’s top winter destinations, known for its light, fluffy powder snow, scenic mountain landscapes...
Event / Festival

Hanazono Shrine’s Tori-no-Ichi Festival: A Lively Celebration of Luck in the Heart of Shinjuku

Known in Japanese as the Ōtori Matsuri (大酉祭), this annual event draws thousands of people from all over Japan who come t...
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...
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...
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...
Trip

Kansai Focus: 7 days Japan Itinerary for First-Time Travelers

For travelers who want to experience Japan’s cultural heart, delicious food, and relaxed urban energy, the Kansai region...