All About Japan

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.

Sport Your Rice Ball in Style

These stylish and edgy handmade leather accessories are specially designed for Japan’s iconic convenience store snack.

Limited-Edition Pringles with Japanese Flavors

Once you pop, the Japanese fun won't stop with these Pringles flavors that were inspired by popular dishes from Japan.

The Best of Valentine’s Day Shopping in 2017

Valentine's Day is one of the biggest holidays in Japan and it's so important to make sure you get the right gift for your sweetheart. Read on if you need some ideas on the perfect present.

Have Yourself a Merry Christmas (by Yourself)

Are you far away from family and your friends too are busy, leaving you on your own this Christmas? No need to succumb to singles' sadness. We've got some helpful advice to help you enjoy the holiday while flying solo.

Shoryudo: Knockout Destinations

From ropeways and waterfalls to castles and historic gardens, the 'Rising Dragon Road' through central Japan does everything to catch your eye!

6 Must-Try Local Specialties in Tohoku

To learn the heart of a region, you gotta eat like a local! Here are six ways to make sure you eat right in Tohoku.

Japanese Christmas Food Traditions Explained

Why do many Japanese people eat frosted sponge cake and KFC fried chicken on the night before Christmas? Read on to learn all about this unusual tradition!

Sakura-Themed Drinks & Merchandise Galore!

Starbucks will be giving us a taste of spring with two new beverages and a drink-ware range containing over 30 cherry-blossom-themed items.

33 Survival Kanji for Japan First-Timers

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!

5 Things to Do with ¥100 Udon or Soba

Like a famous cooking challenge show, today we will be working with a secret ingredient: ¥100 udon or soba in five different and inventive recipes that won't break the bank. So get your apron on and let's get started!

Taste the Bounty of Land & Sea in Hachinohe

The Tohoku region, just northeast of Tokyo, is well known for its tasty delights. So we sent our writer Nick over to Aomori for an in-depth look at the food culture of one of the prefecture's largest cities.

Sink Your Teeth into a Decadent Sushi Cake

For your next birthday or Christmas party, skip the vanilla or chocolate cake and get a sushi cake sprinkled with real gold flakes instead!

Escape Reality by Relaxing at Hotel Sakan

If you're looking for a vacation spot that has the convenience of city life and the charm of the countryside, Sendai is the place to go. And while you're there, pamper yourself with a stay at a top-of-the-line hotel that's a cut above the rest!

Eating My Way Through Sendai

Come on a journey to the northeastern region of Japan's largest island as I enjoy the delicious foods and snacks of Sendai.

20 Best Places to Enjoy Sapporo’s Local Foods

Here are some ways to enjoy Sapporo, widely considered to be one of the best food destinations in Japan.

Platform 13½ Set to Open at Ueno Station

Like the Hogwarts Express, a new Japanese train is now getting its very own mysterious in-between platform.

Different Types of Soba Around Japan

Do you know that there are places across Japan with local ways to enjoy soba? Let's go on a tour together to check out several delicious kinds of unique soba!

Top 12 Must-Visit Eateries in Hakodate

If you have a trip to Hokkaido on your itinerary, check out what we listed as our best eats around Hakodate!

Diving Deep into the Nightlife of Hachinohe

Join our writer Nick as he goes headfirst into the vibrant nightlife of Hachinohe with the help of the travel app YORIP.

know-before-you-go