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10 Reasons to Visit Tohoku in Spring

There's a lot to love about Japan's northern region of Tohoku, no matter the season. Travel along with Nick to find out why the area really shines in spring.

Tokyo Side Trips for Every Type of Traveler

While Tokyo alone could satisfy your craving for a yin and yang experience—say, a taste of city life in Shibuya coupled with the greenery of Shinjuku Gyoen—there's more to enjoy beyond the city limits of Tokyo!

Discover Fresh Greenery in the North of Japan

Snow still stands majestically on the mountains of northern Japan even as new leaves bud on the trees in the valleys. If you want to truly feel spring as it comes to Japan, you want to visit Tohoku.

How to Fully Enjoy Your First Visit to Tohoku

Follow along with our writer Wut who went on an incredible journey to Tohoku to discover the best things to see and do for any traveler's first trip to the region.

Get the Best Seats on the Shinkansen

Japanese bullet trains, or Shinkansen, offer three types of seats for your traveling ease. Check this out for a helpful description of each as you plan your next train trip around Japan!

Testing out the ili Translation Device in Kobe

Our writer Eric headed out to Kobe to check out the Sannomiya nightlife, and he brought an ili translation device along for the ride with amusing results.

AAJ Adventures: Goishi Coast

What's waiting for you along the cliffside shore of Goishi Kaigan in Iwate Prefecture? A team of AAJ editors and a videographer head out to Ofunato to capture the natural wonder of the region.

Fab Five Cafés with Free Wi-Fi

Compared to other major cities around the world, it's not easy to find quality cafés with good food, drinks, atmosphere and free Wi-Fi in Tokyo. For the discerning customer with internet needs, these five hot spots are handpicked just for you!

Venture out to the LGBT-Friendly City of Osaka

It's well known that opinions about same-sex marriage and rights are still divided in Japan. But Osaka seems to be ahead of the curve.

Experience Paradise in Southwest Japan

While Okinawa Prefecture consists of a number of beautiful islands, Ishigaki Island is one of the most popular destinations among them, gaining an international reputation as a gateway to paradise.

How to Get Around (& to) Tohoku

Ready to start your trip to Tohoku? Before grabbing your luggage and putting on your shoes, you'd better plan how to move around once you’re there. We’re here to help!

Using the ili Translator in Rural Japan

Our writer Robert went on a cycling trip around western Japan and had an opportunity to test out the ili translation device in a few rural areas. Let's see how it works!

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.

Discover Cherry Blossoms with Snow in Tohoku!

While Japan may be known for its springtime cherry blossoms, the Tohoku region offers something even more unique: cherry blossoms with snow!

5 Things to Do for the First Timer in Okinawa

If you think that Japan is only the 'Land of the Rising Sun,' you may think twice once you get to see the glorious sunsets of Okinawa. Beyond sunrises, there's more to enjoy in this subtropical paradise only a short plane ride from Tokyo.

Change the Way You Think About Tea Ceremony

Not all tea ceremonies are created equal. Some are traditional and stuffy; this one is 'avant-garde.'

Get Your Own Personal Pocket Guide to Japan

You're only a click away from having your very own guided tour of Japan's most popular spots without spending a dime.

15 Popular Shops in Shibuya

Shibuya, Tokyo's center of youth culture, is a hot place to shop for fashion—and just about anything else! Here are 15 recommendations you have to hit while in 'Shibs'!

Embracing the Warmth of Tohoku in Hachinohe

My journey to northern Japan led to an immersion in the rich culture and hospitality of the residents and regions of Hachinohe, Aomori.

Why Is Japanese Customer Service So Amazing?

Many people around the world know about, and expect, warmhearted hospitality in Japan. But what if we tell you the reason why might not be as simple, or polite, as a culturally ingrained sense of respect?

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