The Thunder in Ryogoku: A Visitor’s Guide to Tokyo’s September Grand Sumo Tournament
Every autumn, a distinct energy takes over eastern Tokyo. The oppressive heat of midsummer begins its slow retreat, giving way to crisp air, clear skies, and one of Japan’s most captivating athletic spectacles: the Aki Basho, or September Grand Sumo Tournament. Held at the legendary Ryogoku Kokugikan arena, this 15-day event is the fifth official […]
Sun, Seafood, and Samurai: An Unforgettable Journey to Kochi
Often referred to as Japan’s sunny “Nangoku” (southern land), Kochi Prefecture is a breathtaking region that immediately grabs your attention. Coming from cities like Osaka, you can feel the warmth right away—it easily felt about 3°C hotter! But beyond the heat, Kochi holds a special charm filled with incredible food cultures, rich samurai history, and […]
Summer by the Sea: Discovering Japan’s Beach Culture and Coastal Traditions
When summer arrives in Japan, people naturally look for ways to escape the heat. While Japan is famous for its mountains, temples, and bustling cities, the country is also surrounded by the ocean, with a coastline stretching across thousands of kilometers. The sea has always played an important role in Japanese history, culture, and daily […]
Night Lights & Sacred Spaces: Discovering the Timeless Charm of Kyoto
There is a unique magnetic pull to Kyoto that is hard to put into words. Strolling through the streets, you realize quickly that nearly 70% of the people walking alongside you are international travelers—all drawn to the same place. Kyoto possesses a mysterious power to captivate people from every corner of the world. What makes […]
Kamigata Beer: A Brewery Like No Other in Osaka
An Unexpected Discovery In Japan, you will often stumble upon the most unusual places—hidden gems you could never have imagined. Today, let me introduce you to one of them: Kamigata Beer, a craft brewery unlike any other, located inside a former public bathhouse. At first glance, it may look like an old neighborhood sento, but […]
Taste the Season: A Guide to Fruit Picking in Japan (From Mountain Orchards to Train-Accessible Farms)
There is something magical about eating fruit at the absolute peak of its season, straight from the branch. In Japan, fruit cultivation is treated almost like an art form. Farmers pour incredible care into growing perfect, sweet, and incredibly juicy varieties—many of which boast unique flavor profiles you simply cannot find back home. Venturing out […]
Chogosonshi-ji Temple: Discover Kansai’s Hidden Tiger Temple
Looking for a unique day trip from Osaka? Just over an hour away, Chogosonshi-ji Temple (朝護孫子寺) is a vast temple hidden on the slopes of Mount Shigi in Nara Prefecture. Known as the “Tiger Temple,” it is famous for its impressive tiger statues, peaceful mountain setting, and centuries of history. Far less crowded than many […]
A Place I Will Always Want to Return To: Amami Oshima & Kakeromajima
Working for a travel company gives me the opportunity to learn about many wonderful destinations across Japan. Every place has its own unique charm, but there are only a few that truly make me think, “I absolutely want to come back.” For me, that special place is Amami Oshima and Kakeromajima, a small island located […]
The Ultimate Guide to Japan’s Themed Cafes: Navigating the World of Character Dining
If there is one thing Japan has absolutely mastered, it’s turning your favorite fictional worlds into an edible, immersive reality. From perfectly styled lattes featuring your favorite anime characters to entirely themed menus that feel like they were plucked straight out of a video game, themed cafes are a major highlight of any trip here. […]
A Hidden Gem That Feels Like the World of Your Name: A Visit to Hoshida Myoken-gu Shrine
Located in Katano City, Osaka, Hoshida Myoken-gu Shrine is known as a sacred place of star worship. Among fans of the anime film Your Name (Kimi no Na wa), it has also become a popular spot due to its mystical atmosphere that evokes the film’s enchanting world. I recently visited the shrine and was surprised […]