East Meets West in Wedding Dress Form
Japanese brides are taking control of their Western-style weddings with a uniquely Japanese flair. Find out how fashion-forward brides are swapping out kimono for dresses without losing cultural significance.
Samurai Signs Teach Bathing Etiquette & More
Trying to navigate your way through the myriad rules in Japan? These signs are hilariously informative!
33 Survival Kanji for Japan First-Timers
Learning Japanese Life in Japan
Coming to Japan, but don't know any kanji—or what kanji even means? Take a deep breath, relax and we'll get you started along the way!
Don't Be Surprised by Japan, Be Prepared!
Japan is full of many surprises and challenges that might catch you off guard during your first time here. But, we're here to give you a quick overview of how to prepare for your new life here.
Love in Japan: Valentine's Day & White Day
Not content with just one day of affection, Japan follows up Valentine's Day with White Day exactly a month later.
The True 'Deep' North: Caving in Tohoku
Big, small, weird, wonderful, and beautiful! Welcome to the world of caving in Tohoku!
How to Enjoy Tea Ceremony Like a Local
Like many traditional Japanese events, tea ceremony is a treasured cultural activity where manners are key. Before you sit down, here's a quick primer on the rules you'll need to know to properly enjoy 'chado.'
How to Find Love in Japan
You can find just about anything in Japan, from dancing robots to maid cafés! But what about love?
Memoirs of Being a Black Sheep in Japan
One of our writers recounts his experiences living in Japan as an African-American, how he is perceived in society, and how life here compares to life back home.
A 'Heart to Heart' Primer on Japanese Manners
First Time in Japan Life in Japan
Manners are a big part Japanese culture and society, but a first-time visitor or new resident will likely be surprised to learn many of these rules are unspoken, but understood. Therefore, we'd like to introduce a few to help you fit in while in Japan.
6 Sublime Views in Tohoku
The northeast region of Honshu, Tohoku, is a destination for all seasons. If you're looking to see nature at its finest, head north!
How to Mind Your Onsen Manners
When in Japan, you'll quickly realize the country is full of rules—some blatantly expressed and some silently understood by locals—and a day at the hot spring is no different. But, we've got you covered on what to do (and not do) at the onsen.
The Secrets of 'Gokon'
What's the deal with mysterious Japanese group dates, or 'gokon'?
When Do You Wear a Yukata at a Japanese Inn?
Before bathing? After bathing? As soon as you arrive? Or not at all? Find out when most people usually change into 'yukata' when staying at a ryokan.
The Sound & the (Lack of) Fury of Japan
While we know that silence is definitely golden in Japan, there is, on the other hand, an interesting relationship to noise here.
Finding an Apartment in Japan
If you're considering moving to Japan, or even just looking to get out of that share house, read on to learn about your options!
The Best of Kanazawa for Every Traveler
If you only have a limited time to explore Kanazawa, make the most of your trip by knowing all the must-try foods and must-do activities in this charming and historic town before you go. We'll break it down for each type of traveler out there.
Sai: Humble Village, Proud Heritage
Join us for a brief introduction of the many wonders of Sai, a charming seaside village in the northernmost part of Aomori Prefecture.
Getting Permanent Residency in Just One Year
The Ministry of Justice in Japan is cutting the wait time for permanent residency and that, depending on several factors, could potentially narrow the wait time down to one year.
The Spotlight's on D. H. Rosen
If you're tapped into the art scene in Japan, then you've likely come across artist/writer/curator/producer Daniel H. Rosen, the go-to guru in the creative community.
