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How to Sit on a Japanese Cushion

If you live in Japan, there's a good chance you'll eventually have to sit on a Japanese cushion, or 'zabuton.' So how do you do it? There's more to it than just plopping down your bum!

All About’s Guide to Nara

As Japan’s first permanent capital, Nara is home to a wealth of historical and cultural delights—and deer, lots of deer! Check out our guide to find out how to make the most of your time in this ancient area.

Top 5 Things to Do & See on Yakushima

Yakushima is far removed from the hustle and bustle of mainland Japan. This mountainous island with its misty, primeval forests enchants visitors who come to take in the amazing scenery.

Our 12 Favorite ’First Time in Japan’ Photos

Every person's first time in Japan is unique and exciting. Here's a compilation of our 12 favorite pics from people who made the journey for the first time!

'Hanami' Manners Matter

Don't want to be shamed on Japanese television for having poor manners while enjoying cherry blossoms? Here are the four rules you need to follow to avoid causing a small scandal.

Visiting Japan Made Easier With Travel Hub Mix

As Japan prepares for the 2020 Olympic Games, many new facilities are being built, more signs are appearing in different languages and more tourist-friendly facilities are popping up. Let's take a look at one such service, Travel Hub Mix.

A YouTuber's First Time in Japan

Follow New York-based filmmaker and YouTuber Kraig Adams as he spends one fascinating week in and around Tokyo.

Top 10 Things to Do in Hiroshima

Check out our list for all the inspiration you need to visit this dynamic, cosmopolitan city!

The Shrine with the Best View of Mount Fuji

Chureito Pagoda in Yamanashi Prefecture offers what is possibly the single most definitive view of Mount Fuji in Japan.

5 Reasons Tipping Isn't Done in Japan

Guidebooks love to say it’s because Japanese people think tipping is rude, but that’s not even close to the whole story!

10 Onomatopoeia Terms You Need to Know

Whether you're a first-time visitor to Japan, a current resident or simply studying the language, if you want to impress your friends with some Japanese try out these incredibly useful onomatopoeia expressions!

All About Japanese Currency

What’s the largest banknote in Japan? Curious about the coinage and what it’s made of? And who are those people on their bills? All that and more as we break down Japan's currency!

Incredibly Affordable Capsule Hotel in Tokyo

Put the money you would have spent on sleeping in a fancier room towards a longer stay in Japan at this Shinjuku hotel.

Answers to Common Questions for First-Timers

Ever wondered about vending machines or all the cute characters on signage in Japan? What's up with capsule toys? Tokyo Girls' Update has some insight into simple aspects of Japanese life that can surprise first-time visitors.

Life in Japan: Where to Begin when Moving In

On the hunt for a new apartment? Even without the language barrier, moving in Japan can be pretty tricky. Fortunately, we're here to help!

10 Tips for a Stress-Free Trip to Japan

Make the most of your visit to Japan and avoid some serious stress with these tips from a longtime Tokyoite! Find out when to avoid trains, how to find ATMs, when to travel and more.

'Itadakimasu!' Basic Japanese for Dining Out

Japan has an almost overwhelming amount of delicious food to choose from when dining out, but the language barrier can be intimidating. With these helpful phrases for navigating Japanese restaurants deciding what to eat will be the hardest part!

How to Prepare for a Huge Earthquake in Japan

While sightseeing in Japan, international travelers had better be prepared for earthquakes, which are frequent in the country. This article offers our top tips for preparing for any earthquakes, big or small.

12 Key Phrases for Getting By in Japan

Whether you're visiting for the first time or staying for a while, these simple phrases can help you get around in Japan without getting lost—or lost in translation!

3 Reasons Why Osaka is the 'Jewel of Kansai'

Also known as the Nation's Kitchen, Osaka is a true gem of a city. Discover the three characteristics that make it a must-see during your visit to Japan.

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