A unique sight: free-roaming deer in a Japanese city Nara, Japan, offers its visitors a one-of-a-kind experience: the chance to see hundreds of wild deer roaming freely along city streets, temple grounds, and public parks, especially in Nara Park. These creatures are not penned in or put on display; instead, they mingle naturally with residents and tourists alike. The quiet…
There’s a certain kind of silence that settles in just before a ritual begins—the kind that feels sacred, even if you don’t yet understand why. In Japan, one of the most quietly powerful traditions you may encounter is yakuyoke (also known as yakubarai), a purification rite intended to ward off misfortune and restore balance. You won’t see it splashed across…
Ever felt like life has a built-in “plot twist” phase? In Japan, this isn’t just a feeling—it’s a cultural belief known as yaku. Spiritually significant stretches of time thought to bring misfortune, they’re wrapped in age-old rituals, protective customs, and deep meaning. This article explores the concept of yaku in Japanese culture—its origins, how it influences daily life, its relationship…
Traveling from Tokyo to Nagoya by Shinkansen is a fast, scenic, and stress-free experience. With sleek bullet trains gliding across central Japan, this route is a favorite among travelers eager to explore Nagoya’s cultural heritage, culinary scene, or continue westward to Kyoto and Osaka. In this guide, you’ll learn the key differences between Shinkansen train types, how to choose your…
Japan’s high-speed rail network is legendary. With bullet trains slicing through landscapes at speeds up to 320 km/h, riding the Shinkansen isn’t just transportation—it’s a travel experience in itself. For visitors fascinated by cutting-edge technology and efficient design, understanding which trains are the fastest and how their speeds vary across different routes can add a whole new layer of excitement…
As you get ready for your trip to Japan, picking up some basic chopstick skills can greatly enhance your dining experience. In a country where chopsticks are the main dining utensil, a little practice beforehand not only shows respect for local customs but also allows you to enjoy Japanese cuisine the way it’s meant to be savored. Why learning chopsticks…
As cherry blossoms fade and summer’s heat has yet to arrive, most parts of Japan enter the rainy season, known as tsuyu. While many travelers avoid this time of year, those in search of a more affordable and less crowded experience often discover a uniquely atmospheric side of the country. From misty temple gardens to softly lit city streets, tsuyu…
Rain in Japan isn’t just weather, it’s a season. Known as tsuyu, the annual rainy season transforms the landscape and travel experience across much of the country. But not all regions are affected equally. For example, Sapporo, the capital city of Japan’s northernmost prefecture, Hokkaido, enjoys relatively mild summers and is largely spared from the prolonged period of rainfall seen…
Japan’s rainy season, known as tsuyu in Japanese, typically lasts from May to July, depending on the region, bringing days of steady rain and overcast skies to much of the country. However, one notable exception is Hokkaido, Japan’s northernmost prefecture. The capital city, Sapporo, offers a rich blend of food, shopping, and culture, while also enjoying a cooler, drier climate…
As Japan’s capital and a gateway to exploring the country, Tokyo welcomes millions of international visitors each year. For those arriving at Narita International Airport, the Narita Express (N’EX) is one of the most convenient ways to reach the city center. With generous storage space and a direct link to Tokyo’s major stations, the N’EX is especially popular among passengers…
As the primary airport rail connection between Narita International Airport and central Tokyo, the Narita Express (N’EX) offers travelers a fast, comfortable journey into the heart of the city. For first-time visitors, understanding how to purchase and reserve tickets for this essential train service can help ensure a smooth arrival experience. This guide covers everything you need to know about…
There is a place in Japan where steaming volcanoes rise beside quiet cedar forests, where castles tell stories of samurai bravery, and where every corner feels like it holds a secret waiting to be uncovered. This is Kyushu, the southernmost of Japan’s main islands, a region often overlooked but rich with rewards for those who seek something beyond the usual…
Tokyo’s vast and interconnected railway network offers an exciting way to explore the city, but it can also be overwhelming for first-time visitors. With multiple railway companies operating in and around the capital, choosing the right rail pass is essential for maximizing your travel experience while keeping your budget in check. This guide will help you determine which Tokyo rail…
The JR Tokyo Wide Pass is a valuable travel option for foreign tourists looking to explore Tokyo and the surrounding areas without the hassle of purchasing individual tickets. This comprehensive rail pass offers unlimited travel on JR East trains within the designated area for three consecutive days. For many first-time visitors to Japan, navigating the process of purchasing and using…
Travelers heading to Kyoto often wonder how well their IC cards will work once they leave the Tokyo area. As Japan continues to integrate contactless payment systems across cities, navigating public transportation with just a tap has become more common—and more convenient. In Kyoto, this convenience extends to many places, especially for those using cards like Suica. From city subways…