How to Fully Enjoy Your First Visit to Tohoku
Follow along with our writer Wut who went on an incredible journey to Tohoku to discover the best things to see and do for any traveler's first trip to the region.
How to Read 1 Character 5 Different Ways
Learning Japanese Deeper Japan
This one simple Japanese sentence contains five different pronunciations for one 'kanji' character. Can you pronounce them all?
Manholers Unite!
There's plenty to see when taking in the sights of Japan—just be sure to look down, or you might miss the intricate art of Japanese manhole covers right at your feet!
The 11 Best Things to See in Golden Week
Golden Week is the biggest holiday of the year in Japan, and these 11 spots and events each offer something unique that can only be experienced at this time of year. You don't want to miss them!
A Quick Guide to the East Tokyo Neighborhoods
With 23 central city wards and multiple towns and villages west of the city center under a singular administration, it will take a while before you can call yourself a 'Tokyo Guru.' For a start, let us take you across the eastern neighborhoods!
Embracing the Warmth of Tohoku in Hachinohe
My journey to northern Japan led to an immersion in the rich culture and hospitality of the residents and regions of Hachinohe, Aomori.
Hikone Castle: A National Treasure at 410
2017 marks the 410th birthday of Hikone Castle, one of just 12 remaining original-construction castles in Japan. Join us as we take a look inside!
Do You Know Your Kimono Parts?
The word 'kimono' is one well-known all across the globe, but fewer people know the full scope of these traditional, simple-looking garments. We'll explain each part of the kimono and give you a feel for just how intricate they truly are.
Learn About Japanese Culture from... a Cat?!
Bow down to your new furry sensei who will teach you all about Japanese holidays and culture.
How to Brew the Perfect Cup of Green Tea
If you often enjoy drinking green tea at home, make sure you know the proper way to brew each kind. It's not as simple as just putting the kettle on!
Get the Best Seats on the Shinkansen
Japanese bullet trains, or Shinkansen, offer three types of seats for your traveling ease. Check this out for a helpful description of each as you plan your next train trip around Japan!
Inside the Secret World of Japan's LGBT+ Slang
Around the world, every language and culture has evolved to add jargon relating to the LGBT+ community, and Japan has its own words too. We'll teach you a few terms you may hear around the country—if you're listening carefully.
8 Ways to Go Deeper (& Cheaper!) in Kanazawa
While you can just take the shinkansen from Tokyo to Kanazawa, why not take your time and take in some culture on the way? Then we've got some tips for how to save money while you're there!
12 Great Ways to Spend the Year in Hokkaido
Not sure when you can make it out to Hokkaido? Here are twelve events worth checking out, one for each month of the year.
Secret Hokkaido Spots You Need to See!
Hokkaido is a vast island that hides incredible secrets for those willing to look a little deeper. Here's our list of locations overseas travelers often miss, but would be amazing additions to your next Hokkaido itinerary!
East Japan Shines in 5 Videos of Wintry Wonder
If you can't make your way out to Fukushima, Tochigi or Ibaraki Prefectures, Diamond Route Japan is bringing their majesty to your screen in five breathtaking videos that will have you packing your bags immediately!
The 14 Hottest Hokkaido Ski Spots
Hokkaido offers good snow, great resorts, and fantastic scenery—not to mention superb après-ski, with hot springs and local delicacies to enjoy. Here's our run-down of 14 hot spots to hit on Japan's northern island!
When to Wear a Kimono
While kimono are a big part of Japanese culture, they are not an everyday fashion choice. So, when exactly do people wear kimono?
Sexual Health in Japan
One of the many taboos in Japan is discussing sex and sexual health in an open and proactive way. However, should you end up living or working here, it's important to know what resources are available to keep you healthy and happy.
The 10 Best Spring Spots in Tohoku
Cherry Blossoms Spring in Tohoku
With some of the best nature and scenery in all of Japan, spring is particularly spectacular in Tohoku, with a magnitude of cherry blossom viewing spots that typically bloom a few weeks later than Tokyo and Kyoto.
