The Secrets of the Daruma Doll
The Daruma doll symbolizes good luck and perseverance in modern-day Japan. But how did a tumbler toy come to have such cultural significance, and what are the reasons behind its peculiar customs?
5 Traditional Sweets for the Seasons
Here's a run-down of five of the tastiest-looking Japanese treats that have traditionally been enjoyed in different seasons, from hot 'zenzai' in winter to ice-cold 'ujikintoki' to beat the summer heat.
Experience a Budget-Friendly Japanese Inn
Who says enjoying a Japanese 'ryokan' complete with cosplay backdrops, an onsen and sake tasting has to cost an arm and a leg?
An Incredible Adieu to Kansai
Hien Tran walks us through a moving farewell to the Kansai area, from the classic temples and shrines to the little things like festivals, ice cream, cat cafés and farewell parties. Just try not to be moved!
What is Ichiju-Sansai?
World-famous Japanese foods like sushi, ramen and sukiyaki are actually not frequently served at the dinner table in ordinary Japanese households. To find more typical home cooking, we need to look at a kind of Japanese cuisine known as 'ichiju-sansai.'
Taste Ichiju-Sansai in a Real Japanese Home!
KitchHike is a great site for experiencing local food on your travels, right in the kitchens of local cooks! Here are some fantastic 'ichiju-sansai' meal option from cooks all around Japan.
The Top 6 Beers in Japan
With all the great beers available in Japan, it's difficult to sort and enjoy only the best. We've done the research for you and chosen these six for your drinking pleasure!
Brush Up on Your Japanese Buddhism Knowledge
Impress your friends by showcasing your knowledge of the differences between Japan's two main religions, Shinto and Buddhism—or wow them with the origin of those cute, one-eyed, red 'daruma' dolls.
Advanced Japanese Dining Etiquette is Hard!
Think just not standing up your chopsticks in the rice bowl is enough? Even some Japanese diners—and long-term residents—don't know these detailed etiquette tips!
How to Make 4 Traditional Japanese Soups
These traditional Japanese soups will warm your soul!
How to Make 4 Key Kinds of Dashi
'Dashi' is a Japanese soup stock or broth that forms the basis of many Japanese dishes. Find out how to make awase, kombu, shiitake and iriko dashi for your Japanese-style meals!
3 Top-of-the-Line Kokeshi Dolls
Kokeshi are traditional Japanese dolls expertly carved from wood. You’ve probably seen them around Japan, and after reading this article, you may want to start your own collection!
The 10 Best Craft Beers in Japan
Looking to move beyond the 'Big 4' of Asahi, Kirin, Sapporo and Suntory? Check out these artfully brewed craft beers!
3 Tips on Japanese Food Presentation
You may have some Japanese recipes down pat, but what about the presentation?
A Geisha's Secret to Grease-Free Skin
'Abura-tori-gami' is well known for its oil-absorbent qualities, and has been a hit among geisha since the Edo Period. We've got some convincing reasons why even non-geisha should keep an eye out for some!
Love Knows No Boundaries
Equal Wedding Japan offers traditional Japanese wedding ceremonies to all nationalities, genders, and sexual orientations in locations like on a Noh stage or in a samurai village.
5 Restaurants for a Taste of Ichiju-Sansai
The basic foundation of a traditional Japanese meal is 'ichiju-sansai,' which literally means 'one soup and three dishes.' This refers to a meal consisting of a bowl of soup, a main dish and two sides, supported by rice and Japanese pickles.
Suntory & Nikka: 6 Whiskys to Die For
Forget Scotland—Japan is now home to the best whisky brewers.
Don't Know Sake? Welcome to Sake School!
Take a short, comprehensive tour of how sake is made, what it's about, and how to thoroughly enjoy this Japanese traditional treasure!
7 Next-Level Soy Sauce Options
Everybody knows Japanese soy sauce, but did you know there's more than Kikkoman? Here we take a look at seven premium options from all around Japan.
