Katrina Vinluan
Cheaper Options for Budget Living in Tokyo
Tokyo is often tagged as one of the cities with the highest cost of living on Earth. But for those with a plan in mind, living on a budget is quite possible in the capital city. Here's a lowdown of things I learned to save money in the city.
Secret Sakura Spots in Residential Areas
Not all cherry blossom trees are planted in Yoyogi, Shinjuku Gyoen, Inokashira or Sankeien. You'd be surprised to know that a lot of regular neighborhood areas in and around Tokyo also have Instagram-worthy spots for the perfect sakura shot.
By the River Meguro, I Sat Down
Thanks to the sakura along the Meguro River, Nakameguro is perhaps one of the more frequented residential areas during cherry blossom season. Here's what to expect on your first-time sakura experience in Nakameguro, a walkable destination from Shibuya.
How To Explore Kyoto on a Student Budget
If you think Kyoto is too expensive, just ask students for secret tips to help you get going on an adventure to this ancient city that truly depicts Japan's culture, tradition and history.
Kyoto's Top 5 Key Things to Know Before You Go
No two places are quite alike in Japan. If you think you know the rules of Tokyo, get ready for the adjustments you'll need to make when in Kyoto. This is the info you need to know if it's your first time in this historic city of culture.
'Truly Kyoto' Finds for the First-Timer
Each prefecture in Japan has a distinct character and something to be remembered for. Kyoto is not all shrines and temples, but a place for good food and other finds too! Here's a half-day plan for first-time experiences in Kyoto.
8 Ways to Go Deeper (& Cheaper!) in Kanazawa
While you can just take the shinkansen from Tokyo to Kanazawa, why not take your time and take in some culture on the way? Then we've got some tips for how to save money while you're there!
Top 5 Tea Places for Ladies Who Just Lunched
Yes, girls just wanna have fun! And for some, this means a long chat over tea in a calming environment that grants breathing space. While big name tea franchises abound in Japan, here are Tokyo and Yokohama's best kept secrets.
Top 5 Must-Try Food Experiences in Kanazawa
Gold's not the only thing to buy and try in Kanazawa. Thanks to its proximity to the shoreline, the city's also famous for glorious, scrumptious food. Perhaps a crab feast is in order!
The Best of Kanazawa for Every Traveler
If you only have a limited time to explore Kanazawa, make the most of your trip by knowing all the must-try foods and must-do activities in this charming and historic town before you go. We'll break it down for each type of traveler out there.
5 Top Desserts to End the Date on a Sweet Note
On a date, a good dessert after a meal is as sweet as a memorable goodnight kiss. Hop to a stop on our list before calling it a night, as sweet memories are made of these!
5 Outside-the-Box First Date Ideas
There's no better way to get to know your date than to dive into a first-time experience for both of you. Here are five outside-the-box ideas you can try in the Tokyo and Yokohama areas that are sure to give you insight into one another!
5 Things to Do with ¥100 Udon or Soba
Like a famous cooking challenge show, today we will be working with a secret ingredient: ¥100 udon or soba in five different and inventive recipes that won't break the bank. So get your apron on and let's get started!
Spice up Your Life with 5 Healthy Ingredients
Ever wonder why Japanese people live longer than anyone else on the planet? Their diet seems to do the trick, as fermented products with digestion aids and probiotics make up their daily dishes. These videos will show you healthy ingredients worth a try!
5 Things You Didn't Know About 'Natto'
Food & Drink Healthy Japanese Food
Anthony Bourdain, who has tried eating silkworms for a meal, has refused to eat 'natto'. But with a little familiarity, and a lot of convincing that this superfood is oh-so-healthy, you'd forget that this fermented soybean is downright stinky.
Now Serving: Hot Autumn Performances
If you think the only thing delectable in Japan is the rich cuisine, you're missing a lot. There's a vast menu of performances to enjoy in Tokyo in the early days of autumn—served hot, even as summer ends.
5 Tokyo Cafés Featuring Famous Animals
If animals and furry friends make you say 'kawaii,' go ecstatic as you enjoy coffee and good food in these cafés inspired by the world's favorite animals.
5 Oldest Coffee Shops in Tokyo
Coffee culture in Japan did not necessarily have a good start, but these 5 shops somehow withstood the test of time.
All in a Day's Pass!
Train convenience may be the best thing you could enjoy in Japan, but unplanned itineraries could be costly due to frequent use of the trains. But with careful planning, all you need is a one-time purchase ticket for the entire day.
5 Childhood Fantasies Come to Life in Japan
Tooth fairies, gingerbread houses, chocolate factories... your childhood fantasy may exist somewhere in Japan.
