Umami bites

Tokyo’s 銀座 Ginza and 新橋 Shimbashi districts, although located adjacently, represent two very different facets of Japan’s bustling capital city. Ginza, with its high-end shopping and sophisticated dining, offers a taste of Tokyo’s modern side, while still retaining its traditional roots through longstanding department stores. In contrast, the business and entertainment district of Shimbashi exudes a more down-to-earth atmosphere, featuring…

Located southwest of Tokyo in Shizuoka Prefecture, the 伊豆 Izu Peninsula is a cornucopia of natural beauty, cultural attractions, and delicious local cuisine. Although the region may not be as well-known to international tourists as popular destinations like Kamakura and Hakone, it offers a unique and authentic experience for those seeking a lesser-traveled path. Three captivating destinations in Izu stand…

Combining picturesque landscapes and rich cultural assets, 日光 Nikkō offers a perfect day trip opportunity for international travelers staying in Tokyo. Nestled in the mountains of Tochigi Prefecture, the city is most famous for the lavish and impressive 日光東照宮 Nikkō Tōshōgū Shrine (often abbreviated as “Toshogu Shrine”), which has made it both a center of religious significance and an attractive…

Japan’s third-largest city, 大阪 Ōsaka is renowned for its rich culinary scene, vibrant shopping districts, and friendly, energetic atmosphere. Osaka first emerged as a political and economic hub in the 5th century and prospered due to its flourishing trade. In contrast to the fast-paced and more staid character of Tokyo, Osaka exudes a more casual and inviting charm, characterized by…

If you’ve ever traveled in Japan, you have likely been introduced to the convenient and delicious world of 弁当 bento. Whether prepared on your own or bought from a store, bento are a popular and really fun way to try various types of Japanese food, as many small sample-sized dishes are usually stuffed into each of the bento box’s compartments….

A city that once experienced the horrors of the atomic bomb, 広島 Hiroshima has risen from the ashes and transformed itself into a vibrant, modern metropolis. Today, it stands as a symbol of peace, hope, and resilience, offering visitors a unique blend of history, culture, natural beauty, and mouthwatering cuisine. As you explore its charming streets and famous landmarks, you’ll…

When it comes to popular Japanese dishes that’ve made a tasty impression all over the world, 天ぷら tempura is surely one of the heavy hitters. That may be because it has so many similarities to comfort foods around the world. While tempura packs some unique and delicious Japanese flavor, the dish largely consists of lightly battered, deep-fried seafood and vegetables,…

As the capital city of Japan’s biggest and northernmost prefecture of 北海道 Hokkaidō, 札幌 Sapporo is a vibrant and modern metropolis with a rich history dating back to the late 19th century when it became the administrative center of the newly colonized island. This northern gem offers an exciting blend of food, shopping, and outdoor activities, all set against a…

From the bustling streets of Tokyo to the serene temples of Kyoto, Japan has something for everyone. As a first-time visitor, navigating the country can be a bit overwhelming. Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered! In this article, we will explore the various modes of transportation available to help you make the most of your journey. Trains Japan’s train system…

Visiting Japan can be an exciting and memorable experience. Hopefully, you’ll experience it in good health and come home with only positive memories. However, there’s always a chance that you may encounter health-related issues during your stay so it’s essential to be prepared. Whether you need to bring your regular medication, find remedies during your stay for unexpected illnesses or…

As Japan increasingly becomes a top destination for travelers from around the world, it’s crucial to understand the unique customs and traditions that make this nation so captivating. One such aspect of Japanese culture that often piques the curiosity of tourists is its rich alcoholic heritage. In this article, we’ll explore the world of Japanese alcohol, including the rules for…

When it comes to food that puts Osaka on the map, it’s hard to argue against a stronger top two than お好み焼き okonomiyaki and たこ焼き takoyaki. One is a tangy pancake-like dish made on an open grill made to your liking, and the other are juicy dumplings that are packed with more flavor than their size suggests. Both have become…

For Japanese people, tea (お茶 ocha) is not just a drink, but a cultural experience that has been passed down for centuries. With its unique flavor profiles, health benefits, and variety of types, it has become increasingly popular worldwide. Visitors often buy Japanese tea as a gift or for their own enjoyment at home. Additionally, traditional Japanese tea ceremonies provide…

Although Japan offers a variety of traditional alcoholic beverages, some of them regional specialties, sake—known as 日本酒 nihonshu (lit. “Japanese alcohol”) in Japanese—and 焼酎 shōchū are two of the most representative and popular kinds. Both sake and shochu are often paired with traditional cuisine. What are sake and shochu? Sake and shochu are traditional Japanese alcoholic drinks that have been…

すき焼き Sukiyaki and しゃぶしゃぶ shabu-shabu are two different dishes, but they both are a great way to experience the piping hot and delicious appeal of traditional Japanese hot pot cooking. What are sukiyaki and shabu-shabu? Sukiyaki and shabu-shabu are two types of Japanese hot pot cooking. Sukiyaki is a Japanese hot pot dish usually made with thinly sliced beef cooked…