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Japan's Top 4 'Best 3' Sightseeing Spots!

Witness the best sightseeing spots Japan has to offer in four official, comprehensive lists.

The Spotlight's on Jay Ponazecki

Jay Ponazecki takes time from her daily public service responsibilities to share her recommendations on just where to go during the changing of the seasons.

7 Best Spots to Buy Toys in Japan

Japan is home to some of the most famous toys in the world. So what should you do if you’re in Japan and you—or, um, your kids—feel a sudden urge for toy shopping?

Himeji Castle Reborn

In March 2015, Himeji Castle completed its first major renovation in 50 years, leading it to be reborn in resplendent white befitting of the "White Heron Castle."

6 Things You Need to Know About Izakaya

Offering multiple rounds of small dishes, Japanese-style pubs, or 'izakaya,' are a little different from their Western equivalents. Here are six things you need to know to navigate them with ease!

My First Time at a 'Ryokan'

The Japan Guy gives us his first impressions of a traditional Japanese inn in a refreshingly humorous way!

Japan’s 8 Most Awesome Hotels

Japan’s most luxurious hotels provide stellar services while sinking effortlessly into the surrounding landscape.

Japan's First Hedgehog Café has Arrived!

You can now add hedgehogs to the list of cute animals to visit on your next trip to the Japanese capital.

16 Superb Views Found in Kyushu

Introducing the natural landscapes and gorgeous harmony you'll find only in Kyushu!

Intro to the Japanese Writing System: Katakana

Let's take a look at perhaps the most puzzling type of Japanese text: 'katakana.'

8 Amazing Days on a JR Kyushu Rail Pass

Discover the beauty of four Kyushu prefectures by rail! Wander castle towns, stroll through samurai residences and visit historic shrines tied to the founding of Japan, all surrounded by delicious local cuisine!

A 13-Point Guide to Japanese Alcohol

Walk through 13 of the most fundamental types of alcohol in Japan. You know what's at the top of the list—but do you know the other 12?

How to Properly Wear 'Geta'

Do you know the real Japanese technique for wearing traditional footwear?

6 Zoos for a Day Trip in Tokyo

If you're in Tokyo and dying to see some animals, why not have a day out at one of these zoos for some fur time!

Getting Set Up in Japan at the ¥100 Store

Moving to Japan? Don't spend more than you have to! You can find many of the things you need right at the ¥100 store!

20 Great Ramens from the Land of Tonkotsu

Kyushu is famous in Japan as the birthplace of tonkotsu ramen—so it would be a waste to visit the region without trying some of its signature noodles!

Top 6 Castles Around Tokyo

These six castles, all easily accessible from the Tokyo area, are more than enough to slake your thirst for the days of the samurai.

8 Key Phrases for Navigating 'Izakaya'

Don't speak Japanese? Walk into a Japanese-style pub and order with ease using these eight key phrases!

Intro to the Japanese Writing System

Can you spot the differences between each of Japan's three different characters?

The Story of a Sweet Old Dog

Hachi was an Akita dog famous for waiting for his master at Shibuya Station for nearly 10 years after he died. This is his story.

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