3 Reasons Why Osaka is the 'Jewel of Kansai'
Also known as the Nation's Kitchen, Osaka is a true gem of a city. Discover the three characteristics that make it a must-see during your visit to Japan.
Life in Japan: Where to Begin when Moving In
Accommodation First Time in Japan
On the hunt for a new apartment? Even without the language barrier, moving in Japan can be pretty tricky. Fortunately, we're here to help!
Top 5 Things to Do & See on Yakushima
Yakushima is far removed from the hustle and bustle of mainland Japan. This mountainous island with its misty, primeval forests enchants visitors who come to take in the amazing scenery.
Our 12 Favorite ’First Time in Japan’ Photos
Photography First Time in Japan
Every person's first time in Japan is unique and exciting. Here's a compilation of our 12 favorite pics from people who made the journey for the first time!
How to Prepare for a Huge Earthquake in Japan
While sightseeing in Japan, international travelers had better be prepared for earthquakes, which are frequent in the country. This article offers our top tips for preparing for any earthquakes, big or small.
All About Japanese Currency
Information First Time in Japan
What’s the largest banknote in Japan? Curious about the coinage and what it’s made of? And who are those people on their bills? All that and more as we break down Japan's currency!
'Hanami' Manners Matter
Cherry Blossoms First Time in Japan
Don't want to be shamed on Japanese television for having poor manners while enjoying cherry blossoms? Here are the four rules you need to follow to avoid causing a small scandal.
10 Tips for a Stress-Free Trip to Japan
First Time in Japan Japan Tips From Locals
Make the most of your visit to Japan and avoid some serious stress with these tips from a longtime Tokyoite! Find out when to avoid trains, how to find ATMs, when to travel and more.
5 Reasons Tipping Isn't Done in Japan
Restaurants First Time in Japan
Guidebooks love to say it’s because Japanese people think tipping is rude, but that’s not even close to the whole story!
10 Onomatopoeia Terms You Need to Know
Learning Japanese Deeper Japan
Whether you're a first-time visitor to Japan, a current resident or simply studying the language, if you want to impress your friends with some Japanese try out these incredibly useful onomatopoeia expressions!
All About’s Guide to Nara
As Japan’s first permanent capital, Nara is home to a wealth of historical and cultural delights—and deer, lots of deer! Check out our guide to find out how to make the most of your time in this ancient area.
Incredibly Affordable Capsule Hotel in Tokyo
Put the money you would have spent on sleeping in a fancier room towards a longer stay in Japan at this Shinjuku hotel.
'Itadakimasu!' Basic Japanese for Dining Out
First Time in Japan Life in Japan
Japan has an almost overwhelming amount of delicious food to choose from when dining out, but the language barrier can be intimidating. With these helpful phrases for navigating Japanese restaurants deciding what to eat will be the hardest part!
Answers to Common Questions for First-Timers
First Time in Japan Life in Japan
Ever wondered about vending machines or all the cute characters on signage in Japan? What's up with capsule toys? Tokyo Girls' Update has some insight into simple aspects of Japanese life that can surprise first-time visitors.
A YouTuber's First Time in Japan
Follow New York-based filmmaker and YouTuber Kraig Adams as he spends one fascinating week in and around Tokyo.
Top 10 Things to Do in Hiroshima
Check out our list for all the inspiration you need to visit this dynamic, cosmopolitan city!
How to Sit on a Japanese Cushion
If you live in Japan, there's a good chance you'll eventually have to sit on a Japanese cushion, or 'zabuton.' So how do you do it? There's more to it than just plopping down your bum!
12 Key Phrases for Getting By in Japan
Learning Japanese Life in Japan
Whether you're visiting for the first time or staying for a while, these simple phrases can help you get around in Japan without getting lost—or lost in translation!
Visiting Japan Made Easier With Travel Hub Mix
As Japan prepares for the 2020 Olympic Games, many new facilities are being built, more signs are appearing in different languages and more tourist-friendly facilities are popping up. Let's take a look at one such service, Travel Hub Mix.
The Shrine with the Best View of Mount Fuji
Chureito Pagoda in Yamanashi Prefecture offers what is possibly the single most definitive view of Mount Fuji in Japan.
