Shop with the Touch of a Finger!
A brand-new payment system lets you make purchases with the touch of a finger. Great for tourists too!
New Magnitude 7.3 Quake Hits Kyushu
Information Kumamoto Earthquake
A magnitude 7.3 earthquake struck the Kyushu region at 1:25 a.m. on Saturday, April 16. This follows the strong April 14 quake that killed nine and left over 1,000 injured. With tremors continuing, there are now 41 dead and 2,000 injured since Thursday.
10 Ways to Get Free Wi-Fi in Japan
While Japan may be behind other developed counties in terms of free Wi-Fi/internet access, things have gotten a lot better over the last few years. Here are some places you can go to get totally free Wi-Fi!
5 Fantastic Websites for Fall Foliage
These five sites will make sure you don’t miss a beat as the leaves change color from north to south across the country!
The Spotlight's on Jay Ponazecki
First Time in Japan Deeper Japan
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.
Top 5 Free Tour Guide Services in Japan
Just about to book that expensive tour guide to show you around Japan? No need! There are hundreds of free volunteer guides all over the country. Here are our top groups and organizations!
Essential Tips for Navigating Trains
Day-to-day transit in Japan can be confusing for the uninitiated. Don't worry! We're here to help.
English Conversation School 101
Thinking of applying to teach at an 'eikaiwa'? You might want to read up on some things you can expect from English conversation schools in Japan.
The Spotlight's on Damon Mackey
We can appreciate Japan for all sorts of reasons, but MBA talent consultant Damon Mackey points out a big one for both business and personal needs—convenience!
16 Superb Views Found in Kyushu
Introducing the natural landscapes and gorgeous harmony you'll find only in Kyushu!
4 Cool Things You Probably Missed on SnowJapan
As with any big site, there are many great parts of SnowJapan that get overlooked, even by frequent users. Here are four things you probably didn't know you could do!
Kumamoto Earthquake Updates & Donation Info
Information Kumamoto Earthquake
The JNTO is providing regular updates on the situation in Kyushu following the large April 14 and April 16 earthquakes and ongoing aftershocks in the region. Check for the latest information and recommended apps; we now have donation information as well.
Why Hokkaido Should Be Your Next Destination
With its beautiful landscapes, delicious local foods and its own indigenous culture, Hokkaido is definitely not to be missed.
Magnitude 7 Quake in Kumamoto
Information Kumamoto Earthquake
The Japan Meteorological Agency has reported that an earthquake with a magnitude of 7 on the shaking intensity scale struck Kyushu at 9:26 p.m. on April 14. We recommend using social media and disaster message boards to check on loved ones in the area.
A Helpful Guide to Healthcare in Japan
No matter where you live, it's good to have at least a general sense of how the health and medical care system works.
8 Vital Sites when You Arrive in Japan
When you arrive in Japan as a resident, there are a number of sites you're going to need to get oriented—though some of these are great for tourists as well!
Japan's Only Fashion Mag for Larger Men
Debuting in October 2015, Mr. Babe is Japan's first fashion and lifestyle magazine designed specifically for 'chubby' (or 'pocchari') men—which in Japan means men with a body mass index of over 25.
Getting a Visa for Japan
First Time in Japan Life in Japan
Want to come to Japan but don't know where to start? Here's our quick overview of the visa process. Check it out, apply, and pack your bags!
10 Misconceptions We Assume True About Japan
Information First Time in Japan
If you live overseas and find yourself captivated by the intrigue of Japan, you’re certainly not alone. But sometimes what you think you know about Japan might not match up with reality!
Budgeting for a Weekend Away from Tokyo
Tokyo’s great, but it’s nice to get away from time to time. Fortunately, from the capital, the short-trip traveler has access to some great weekend-away spots. We've selected some of the classics, and assess their travel budgets.
