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 […]
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 […]
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 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 […]
Chinchillas, Hydrangeas, and Hidden Temples: Our Unforgettable Shiga Countryside Adventure
Whenever we chat with travelers planning their trips around Japan, they always rave about the hyper-efficient bullet trains and pristine subway lines of the major cities. And it’s true – public transit here is a marvel! But if you really want to experience the heart of Japan, you have to venture out into the countryside. […]
Golden Week in Japan: A Survival Guide for the Busiest Week of the Year
If you have been following the news or walking around any major Japanese city last week, you’ve likely noticed the surge of energy (and people) everywhere. That’s because we were in the midst of Golden Week, a cluster of four national holidays that creates the longest and busiest vacation period in Japan. For travelers, Golden […]
Do you know the Kerama Islands — a world beyond Okinawa?
A 3-Day Journey into the “Kerama Blue” When people think of Okinawa, they think of beautiful beaches.But among them, the Kerama Islands stand out with some of the clearest and most stunning waters in Japan. This time, I visited Zamami Island, one of the islands in this group. The ocean, known as “Kerama Blue,” is […]
Why I Love the Kurashiki Bikan Historical Quarter (And Why You Should Visit Any Time of Year!)
This week I would like to introduce one of my favourite day trip destinations from Osaka : the old district of Kurashiki in Okayama. I was lucky enough to visit this beautiful place during two of the best seasons of the year (in my opinion) : autumn and spring ! Let me tell you about […]