East Japan Shines in 5 Videos of Wintry Wonder
If you can't make your way out to Fukushima, Tochigi or Ibaraki Prefectures, Diamond Route Japan is bringing their majesty to your screen in five breathtaking videos that will have you packing your bags immediately!
Change the Way You Think About Tea Ceremony
Not all tea ceremonies are created equal. Some are traditional and stuffy; this one is 'avant-garde.'
The Real Health Benefits of Green Tea
Green tea has long been believed to have health benefits, and nowadays people tout it for everything from weight loss to heart disease. But what does the research actually show?
The Polite Way to Sip Green Tea with Company
When sipping tea with your host, the polite way to partake depends on the kind of cup and the type of tea provided. Are you sure you know the right way?
Learn About Japanese Culture from... a Cat?!
Bow down to your new furry sensei who will teach you all about Japanese holidays and culture.
Full List—Japan's Intangible Cultural Heritage
Beyond its 20 spectacular World Cultural Heritage Sites, Japan has 21 traditions recognized by UNESCO as elements of Intangible Cultural Heritage.
The Secrets of 'Gokon'
What's the deal with mysterious Japanese group dates, or 'gokon'?
History of Same-Sex Samurai Love in Edo Japan
Thinking about samurai conjures up images of swords, honor, battles and blood. Chances are, homosexual relationships didn't enter your mind... until now.
How to Enjoy Tea Ceremony Like a Local
Like many traditional Japanese events, tea ceremony is a treasured cultural activity where manners are key. Before you sit down, here's a quick primer on the rules you'll need to know to properly enjoy 'chado.'
Love in Japan: Valentine's Day & White Day
Not content with just one day of affection, Japan follows up Valentine's Day with White Day exactly a month later.
How to Wear a Yukata at a Ryokan
When staying at a Japanese-style inn, or 'ryokan,' you may wear a kind of light cotton robe called a 'yukata.' While much simpler to wear than a kimono, there are still a few things you should know!
The Top 11 Hot Spring Hot Spots in Japan!
Before modern medicine was invented, onsen (hot springs) were revered as sacred places blessed with magical healing properties. During the Edo Period, sick patients would soak in the onsen for weeks to leave the pools feeling healthy and refreshed!
Tokyo Restaurant Serves Real School Lunches
Wonder what a Japanese school lunch tastes like, but don't teach in a Japanese school? Try this Tokyo restaurant, where you can get both the flavor and atmosphere of an elementary school classroom!
Do You Know All the Different Types of Kimono?
Did you know that there are actually a dozen different kinds of kimono? Try to name more than two!
Small Island Burns for Japan's Early Days
Every year in January, the 800 residents of this small island pray for health and remember the nation's first emperor with a pillar of flame.
All the Public Holidays in Japan
While Japan may be famous for its grueling work ethic, the nation actually has a surprising number of national holidays—nearly one every month. Find out when you can get a day off to enjoy the rising sun!
Japan-Exclusive National Holidays
Need a break from the long hours of working in Japan? Let's take a look at Japan-only national holidays that can't be found in any other country.
What's the Difference Between Tokyo & Osaka?
Debating between visiting Japan's two most prominent cities? Tokyo's got the bright lights, but Osaka's got the character. Here's a comparison to help you choose between the two!
The 11 Best Things to See in Golden Week
Golden Week is the biggest holiday of the year in Japan, and these 11 spots and events each offer something unique that can only be experienced at this time of year. You don't want to miss them!
Are the Japanese Losing their Sense of Smell?
When we cover ourselves in scents, can we still appreciate the refined subtlety of Japanese cuisine?
