Robert Kodama
Cheap Winter Escapes to 5 Warm Global Spots
Keep these five budget-friendly travel options in mind when you want to beat the bitter Japanese cold.
From Osaka to Wakkanai on the Seishun 18 Kippu
Your guide to taking a leisurely four-day trip to the top of Japan using scenic local trains.
Guide to Hiking Hokkaido's Rebun Island
Rebun Island (礼文島) is a hiker's dream and a hidden secret nestled just off the main island of Hokkaido Prefecture. Why not make 2018 the time to visit Rebun Island and enjoy the stunning views this place has to offer.
What's the Average Cost of Living in Japan?
So, how expensive is Japan really? Read on to find out the average cost of living in Japan in comparison to the US dollar and the UK pound sterling to see if a potential move to Japan is within your budget!
10 Useful Kanji for Everyday Life in Japan
The top unique aspects of Japanese culture and their kanji counterparts.
How to Navigate a Japanese Washlet Toilet
If you're confused by all the buttons on a modern Japanese toilet, we're here to decipher all those mystifying symbols.
How to Shop in Japan for Vegans
Vegan Beyond Sushi: Best Eats & Treats in Japan
If you're a vegan, or have other dietary concerns, here are some 'kanji' (Chinese characters) to watch out for when shopping for food in Japan.
A Walk Through Sendai to Remember
Following the aftermath of the 2011 Tohoku Earthquake and subsequent tsunami, the residents of Sendai are standing on their feet once again and ready to share the lessons they've learned about disaster prevention and preparation.
Do You Need a Tourist Visa to Visit Japan?
One question we get all the time is regarding tourist visas. Read on to find out if you'll need to obtain a visa or not before planning your trip to Japan.
When Does the Hokkaido Shinkansen Start?
Wondering if you can take the bullet train to Hokkaido? We've got some good, and not so good, news for you.
Kyoto Butoh-Kan
The world's first-ever dedicated theater space for the Japanese art of Butoh.
5 of the Best SIM-Only Contracts in Japan
Our guide to the cheapest options for getting a phone contract in Japan.
Top 5 Department Stores in Kansai
A guide to the top luxury shopping options in Kansai.
Top 5 Theme Parks in Kansai
Check out some of the best theme parks the Kansai region has to offer.
5 Cheap Options to Visit Okinawa From Kansai
Save some cash and discover cheap flight options for a beach getaway from Kansai to Okinawa with these tips.
Leave Naha for These 4 Hidden Okinawa Islands
Okinawa Prefecture is full of smaller islands with stunning nature and beaches. Why not take a quick trip away from the busy capital of Naha and find a secluded beach all to yourself?
Guide to the Shimanami Kaido Cycling Route
Come along for a ride along the Shimanami Kaido cycling route and experience 70 kilometers of incredible views and glorious fresh air.
Top 5 Spots on Tropical Ishigaki Island
Ishigaki Island is home to some of the best spots to visit in Japan, and we've got five incredible places for you to check out while you're in the area!
Using the ili Translator in Rural Japan
Our writer Robert went on a cycling trip around western Japan and had an opportunity to test out the ili translation device in a few rural areas. Let's see how it works!
Top 5 Secret Beaches of Kansai
Find some of the best hidden beaches in the Kansai region with this guide.
