All About Japan

All About Robert Kodama
Writer, director and photographer based in the Kansai region of Japan. Passionate about finding unique places to travel to, and also the performing arts.
Toilet Wonders of the Architectural World

Toilet Wonders of the Architectural World

Head to Shibuya in Tokyo to experience toilets like you've never experienced them before.

Renew or Change Japanese Visas Online

Renew or Change Japanese Visas Online

Japan moves to allow foreign resident to change and/or renew their visas online from 2021.

JR East to Offer Half-Price Shinkansen Tickets

JR East to Offer Half-Price Shinkansen Tickets

Good news for anyone residing in Japan; JR East has announced a 50% discount on Shinkansen and limited express tickets until spring next year!

All About the Seishun 18 Ticket

All About the Seishun 18 Ticket

Traveling around Japan by rail need not be an expensive feat. If you have plenty of time and a knack for adventure, the Seishun 18 ticket might be just for you.

The Importance of Continuing Social Distancing

The Importance of Continuing Social Distancing

Although the state of emergency has been lifted throughout the country, the COVID-19 pandemic has taught the world the importance of social distancing, as well as consistent hygiene practices.

Studying Japanese at Home

Studying Japanese at Home

A lot of language learners have had their educational plans disrupted by the COVID-19 epidemic. But that doesn't mean that your Japanese learning has to come to a halt!

Staying Fit While Staying Home

Staying Fit While Staying Home

Read on for some simple tips and tools for staying fit while staying at home.

A Guide to the ¥100,000 Stimulus in Japan

A Guide to the ¥100,000 Stimulus in Japan

The government announced plans to offer a relief package of ¥100,000 to every individual in Japan, including foreign residents. Check out our brief guide on eligibility for the ¥100,000 COVID-19 fund and how to get it.

How to Navigate a Japanese Air Conditioner

How to Navigate a Japanese Air Conditioner

A handy guide to navigating all of the complicated settings on a Japanese air conditioner—trust us, when summer heats up you'll be glad you read this!

Getting to Grips with Plastic in Japan

Getting to Grips with Plastic in Japan

Tips on how to navigate and—more importantly—avoid the ubiquitous, single-use plastic you'll find all over Japan.

Winter Tips for Visiting Japan

Winter Tips for Visiting Japan

While Japan is famous for its stunning cherry blossoms in spring, red leaves in the autumn and countless festivals in summer, Japan is also a veritable winter wonderland! Here are some tips for making the most of your time in Japan in its coldest season.

Talking Trash: How to Toss Your Garbage

Talking Trash: How to Toss Your Garbage

Japan is pretty serious when it comes to sorting garbage, and it can be tough to understand if you're new to the country or don't speak Japanese. We're here to help you sort through the rules of sorting and throwing away your trash!

Do's & Don'ts: Japanese New Year

Do's & Don'ts: Japanese New Year

Ringing in the New Year in Japan is an awesome experience, but it does come with some unique challenges. If you're going to be here over the winter holiday, find out what to expect!

Travel Dates to Avoid in Japan

Travel Dates to Avoid in Japan

Japan is great all year-round, but there are some dates that are more expensive and more popular than others! Find out when NOT to travel in Japan if you want to avoid large crowds and price hikes!

All About's Guide to Kyoto

All About's Guide to Kyoto

No trip to Japan would be incomplete without a visit to the ancient capital city! If you are a history or a culture buff, then have a look at this guide to make the most of your time in Kyoto!

6 Awesome Day Trips from Kyoto

6 Awesome Day Trips from Kyoto

Although Kyoto has tons to explore on its own, it's also a perfect hub for a day trip into another part of the Kansai region. Read on to find out some of the best places to explore around Kyoto!

All About's Guide to Osaka

All About's Guide to Osaka

It's almost impossible to plan a trip to Japan without paying a visiting Osaka! Between its enduring history and culture, laid-back attitude and incredible food scene, there's tons to see and do. Make the most of your time with this guide!

Ryokan 101

Ryokan 101

There's a lot to learn and consider when it comes to staying at 'ryokan,' traditional Japanese inns.

Top 10 Dating Spots in Kansai

Top 10 Dating Spots in Kansai

Love exists all over Japan and we're here to help you find it with the 10 best dating spots in Kansai.

Kairo: Japan's Top Secret to Warmth in Winter

Kairo: Japan's Top Secret to Warmth in Winter

Here's our quick guide to the different heating pads you can purchase in Japan to keep your whole body warm.

know-before-you-go