Many travelers list food as one of the top reasons for visiting Japan. Ramen, sushi, wagyū beef—Japan’s culinary delights attract foodies from around the world. But drinks, too, are an essential and often overlooked part of the Japanese travel experience. From seasonal teas and juices, unique beverages from vending machines, and region-exclusive fruit drinks to delicately aromatic sake and shōchū,…
Japan may not be the first destination that comes to mind for a beach holiday, but this island nation boasts a surprising array of coastlines well-suited for children, prioritizing safety, cleanliness, and convenience. Some of the best options lie just outside Tokyo, while others await in the tropical south, where Okinawa’s warm seas and soft sands create a true summer…
When traveling in Japan, one of the joys—beyond the scenery and food—is discovering the unique local drinks found in each region. Take Hokkaidō Prefecture, for example, where locally loved guarana drinks line convenience store shelves, or Ehime Prefecture, where juice bursting with the natural sweetness of mikan (mandarin oranges) is especially popular. Each of these beverages reflects the region’s climate…
Just south of Tokyo, Kamakura and Enoshima make for an easy and rewarding day trip—often paired together thanks to their close proximity and the scenic Enoden railway that links them. But while they share a train line, the two destinations offer very different experiences. Kamakura is rooted in history, known for its grand temples, samurai heritage, and serene shrines. Enoshima,…
Hiroshima, a city indelibly marked by history, has transformed from a site of tragedy into a vibrant symbol of peace and resilience. While best known for its poignant Peace Memorial Park, Hiroshima today is a dynamic, welcoming city with a rich cultural identity, excellent food, and easy access to natural beauty. For first-time visitors to Japan, it can be hard…
The Japanese tea ceremony—called chanoyu or sadō/chadō—is not merely about drinking tea. It is a refined cultural art, a meditative practice, and a spiritual discipline guided by the principles of harmony, respect, purity, and tranquility. For first-time visitors to Japan, taking part in a tea ceremony offers an intimate window into the country’s traditions and aesthetic ideals. Both Kyoto and…
Tucked between Ueno and Asakusa, Kappabashi-dori, affectionately known as “Kitchen Town,” is Tokyo’s go-to street for all things culinary. Lined with shops selling everything from handmade knives to hyper-realistic plastic food samples, it’s a goldmine for chefs, restaurant owners, and curious tourists alike. Whether you’re hunting for professional-grade tools or quirky kitchen-themed souvenirs, Kappabashi delivers a shopping experience that doubles…
Tokyo’s skyline stretches endlessly, a dense mosaic of skyscrapers, shrines, and neighborhoods layered across the horizon. While most observation decks charge steep admission, the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building (TMGB)—known locally as tochō—offers something rare: panoramic views of the city from two free public observation decks. For first-time visitors, it’s a rare, cost-free chance to take in the sheer scale of…
Kamakura lies just an hour south of Tokyo, but the shift in pace and atmosphere feels far greater. Once the political center of medieval Japan, this coastal town blends historical weight with relaxed seaside charm, famous for its numerous temples, breezy beaches, and the iconic Great Buddha watching over it all. For first-time visitors to Tokyo, Kamakura offers one of…
Tokyo has no shortage of shopping districts, but with so many neighborhoods to explore, it helps to know what each one does best. Shibuya and Shinjuku are two of the city’s busiest retail hubs—both packed with options, but each with its own character. They cater to different styles, budgets, and shopping habits, so understanding what sets them apart can help…
Shinjuku Station in Tokyo has a reputation for confusing even seasoned travelers. As the world’s busiest train station, it channels millions of passengers each day through a maze of platforms, exits, and underground corridors. For first-time visitors, the scale alone can be disorienting and overwhelming. However, with a bit of planning and a clear route in mind, navigating Shinjuku Station…
Miso is a traditional Japanese seasoning made from fermented soybeans and rice, with over 1,000 years of history. It’s a staple in Japanese cuisine—found in miso soup, stews, hot pots, and grilled dishes—and deeply rooted in Japanese food culture. If you’re looking to see, taste, and truly experience Japan’s miso culture, “Miso Soup Cafe Ajien” is the place to go….
Abura soba is a type of ramen served without soup. Unlike typical ramen, it features a rich, flavorful sauce that coats the noodles, allowing you to savor the true taste of the noodles themselves. Among the many shops offering abura soba, “Tokyo Aburagumi Souhonten” stands out as one of the top chains, with locations all across Japan—and even overseas. It’s…
Miso—a traditional Japanese seasoning made by fermenting soybeans with rice, barley, or salt—is a staple in Japanese cuisine. From miso soup to hot pots and simmered dishes, it’s an essential element of everyday meals. Different regions of Japan have their own miso traditions. In Aichi Prefecture, a major soybean-producing region, aka miso (red miso) has been a local favorite for…
As exemplified by matcha, Japan is home to a wide variety of traditional beverages that have been passed down through generations. Once enjoyed mainly in limited settings like the home or chashitsu (traditional tea rooms), many of these drinks are now readily available in bottled or canned form at convenience stores and vending machines across the country. It’s never been…