All About Japan All About Japan

Fresh start every Monday!

5 Places Too Perfect Not to Take a Picture!

You simply must check out our Top 5 picturesque 'ryokan' at Yugawara Onsen.

6 Shipping Companies That'll Make Life Easier

When you first arrive in Japan with all your luggage, it may be tempting to travel around carrying around all your things with you wherever you go. But check out these alternatives to help you travel light and make the best of your trip here!

33 Survival Kanji for Japan First-Timers

Coming to Japan, but don't know any kanji—or what kanji even means? Take a deep breath, relax and we'll get you started along the way!

Take a Luxury Bus Tour of Sasebo!

Enjoy Sasebo’s historic buildings and symbolic landscapes from the window of the Umikaze, a luxury-cruiser-style sightseeing bus complete with multilingual audio guides!

What Bread or Rice Says About You

Which do you prefer: bread or rice? Your answer may say something about your personality.

Finding an Apartment in Japan

If you're considering moving to Japan, or even just looking to get out of that share house, read on to learn about your options!

4 Things I Wish I'd Brought to Japan

Don't know what to bring to Japan before you move here? Here's some handy advice from a self-described cheapo on how to make the best of your precious luggage space.

'Ukiyo-e' Teach Passengers Train Etiquette

The ever-growing series of traditional artwork being used for modern aesthetic is grabbing everyone’s attention for its beauty and humor, especially on their daily commute.

A Quick Guide to the East Tokyo Neighborhoods

With 23 central city wards and multiple towns and villages west of the city center under a singular administration, it will take a while before you can call yourself a 'Tokyo Guru.' For a start, let us take you across the eastern neighborhoods!

The Spotlight's on Damon Mackey

We can appreciate Japan for all sorts of reasons, but MBA talent consultant Damon Mackey points out a big one for both business and personal needs—convenience!

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.

6 Sublime Views in Tohoku

The northeast region of Honshu, Tohoku, is a destination for all seasons. If you're looking to see nature at its finest, head north!

When Do You Wear a Yukata at a Japanese Inn?

Before bathing? After bathing? As soon as you arrive? Or not at all? Find out when most people usually change into 'yukata' when staying at a ryokan.

3 Practical Tips for the Karaoke Beginner

With no shortage of options throughout Japan, it can be daunting for the karaoke box beginner to make their amateur singing debut. Luckily, we've got the three key tips you'll need to master the mic.

Samurai Signs Teach Bathing Etiquette & More

Trying to navigate your way through the myriad rules in Japan? These signs are hilariously informative!

The Cat's out of the Bag... or Box!

Come along with us as we take a look inside Neko Box, a subscription service that delivers quality goods from Japan monthly to your doorstep. What mysteries lie within? Let's find out.

A 'Heart to Heart' Primer on Japanese Manners

Manners are a big part Japanese culture and society, but a first-time visitor or new resident will likely be surprised to learn many of these rules are unspoken, but understood. Therefore, we'd like to introduce a few to help you fit in while in Japan.

The Sleeping Taxi Drivers of Tokyo

Head into any Japanese city are you're sure to see people sleeping in public: on trains, park benches and even in their cars. One photographer visiting Japan was amazed by taxi drivers sleeping in their cabs and decided to capture the dreamers on film.

What's the Difference Between Tokyo & Osaka?

Debating between visiting Japan's two most prominent cities? Tokyo's got the bright lights, but Osaka's got the character. Here's a comparison to help you choose between the two!

know-before-you-go