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…
Kabuki is one of Japan’s most celebrated traditional performing arts, and the Kabukiza Theatre is a venue dedicated exclusively to kabuki. Just behind this historic venue—long at the heart of kabuki culture since the Meiji era—is a retro kissaten (Japanese-style cafe) that draws visitors from all over the world: “Kissa American.” Kissaten differ from modern cafes that serve trendy food…
Just a short, accessible trip from Tokyo, Kawaguchiko (known in English as Lake Kawaguchi) is one of the best places to take in spectacular views of Japan’s most famous peak, Mt. Fuji. Nestled at the mountain’s northern base, this tranquil lake is a favorite for both day-trippers seeking a quick getaway and travelers looking for a longer, more immersive escape…
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…