As one of the Fuji Five Lakes, Kawaguchiko (also known in English as Lake Kawaguchi) offers some of the most spectacular views of Japan’s iconic Mt. Fuji. This picturesque lakeside destination in Yamanashi Prefecture draws visitors year-round, all hoping to catch the perfect view of the mountain. However, timing your visit can make all the difference—clear skies may reveal a…
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…
This retro-style cafe, featuring heavy wooden furniture and chairs upholstered in leather and velour, offers guests a place to enjoy drinks like coffee alongside light meals such as sandwiches and pasta. Unaffected by trends and dedicated to preserving a nostalgic atmosphere, Japanese cafes like this have long been loved by many. Located near Higashi-Ginza Station, “Kissa You” is a long-established…
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…
Nestled at the southern tip of Japan, Kyushu is a haven for food enthusiasts. With its rich culinary traditions and distinct regional flavors, this island offers an unforgettable street food experience that reflects the heart of local culture. From the lively streets of Fukuoka to the tranquil corners of Kagoshima and Nagasaki, Kyushu’s food scene is as diverse as it…
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…
Some journeys are more than just trips; they’re invitations to experience a region’s soul, and that’s exactly what it feels like to glide through Kyushu on the Shinkansen — Japan’s famous bullet train. An amazing thing about Shinkansen is that with each station, the landscape shifts. If you’re a foreign traveler craving to explore Kyushu by train, this rail adventure…
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…
On the first floor of Tokyu Plaza Ginza, one of Ginza’s landmark shopping complexes, you’ll find a sophisticated crepe stand that’s capturing the hearts of adults. The Ginza branch of “PÄRLA,” whose main store is in Gaienmae, Tokyo, features a retro design inspired by buildings from the Taisho era. At first glance, it could be mistaken for a bar, with…
Just a ten-minute walk from the heart of Ginza, where landmarks like GINZA SIX and Matsuya Ginza stand, you’ll find a quiet area away from the hustle and bustle—home to a wildly popular shop with a line that never seems to end. The shop is called “Age.3 GINZA,” a specialty store serving deep-fried sandwiches made with fried slices of bread…
Ginza is an area in Tokyo where tradition and innovation merge. In recent years, Ginza has often been known as a high-end shopping district, but its appeal goes far beyond shopping. As symbolized by the Kabukiza Theatre where kabuki is performed, Ginza has long been a center of arts and culture. Even today, the area around Ginza Station is home…
Shirakawago, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is known for its iconic gasshō-zukuri farmhouses with steep, thatched roofs, nestled amidst lush valleys and rolling hills. This picturesque village, particularly in Gifu Prefecture, Japan, offers some of the most breathtaking views that photographers, travel bloggers, and casual travelers dream of capturing. Whether you’re searching for the perfect sunset, the mystical fog of…
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…
Planning your first trip to Tokyo? With its dazzling lights, world-famous trains, and endless sightseeing spots, Japan’s capital can feel overwhelming at first. Well, here’s a secret to make your journey easier: get a Suica card. It’s the ultimate Tokyo transportation card, and it saves you time, money, and stress. In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to buy…