Japan’s 8 Most Awesome Hotels
Japan’s most luxurious hotels provide stellar services while sinking effortlessly into the surrounding landscape.
Japan's First Hedgehog Café has Arrived!
You can now add hedgehogs to the list of cute animals to visit on your next trip to the Japanese capital.
Himeji Castle Reborn
In March 2015, Himeji Castle completed its first major renovation in 50 years, leading it to be reborn in resplendent white befitting of the "White Heron Castle."
The Story of a Sweet Old Dog
Hachi was an Akita dog famous for waiting for his master at Shibuya Station for nearly 10 years after he died. This is his story.
20 Great Ramens from the Land of Tonkotsu
Kyushu is famous in Japan as the birthplace of tonkotsu ramen—so it would be a waste to visit the region without trying some of its signature noodles!
8 Key Phrases for Navigating 'Izakaya'
Don't speak Japanese? Walk into a Japanese-style pub and order with ease using these eight key phrases!
7 Best Spots to Buy Toys in Japan
Japan is home to some of the most famous toys in the world. So what should you do if you’re in Japan and you—or, um, your kids—feel a sudden urge for toy shopping?
Top 6 Castles Around Tokyo
These six castles, all easily accessible from the Tokyo area, are more than enough to slake your thirst for the days of the samurai.
Intro to the Japanese Writing System
Learning Japanese First Time in Japan
Can you spot the differences between each of Japan's three different characters?
6 Zoos for a Day Trip in Tokyo
If you're in Tokyo and dying to see some animals, why not have a day out at one of these zoos for some fur time!
6 Things You Need to Know About Izakaya
Offering multiple rounds of small dishes, Japanese-style pubs, or 'izakaya,' are a little different from their Western equivalents. Here are six things you need to know to navigate them with ease!
How to Properly Wear 'Geta'
Do you know the real Japanese technique for wearing traditional footwear?
My First Time at a 'Ryokan'
The Japan Guy gives us his first impressions of a traditional Japanese inn in a refreshingly humorous way!
8 Amazing Days on a JR Kyushu Rail Pass
Discover the beauty of four Kyushu prefectures by rail! Wander castle towns, stroll through samurai residences and visit historic shrines tied to the founding of Japan, all surrounded by delicious local cuisine!
16 Superb Views Found in Kyushu
Introducing the natural landscapes and gorgeous harmony you'll find only in Kyushu!
Intro to the Japanese Writing System: Katakana
Learning Japanese First Time in Japan
Let's take a look at perhaps the most puzzling type of Japanese text: 'katakana.'
A 13-Point Guide to Japanese Alcohol
Walk through 13 of the most fundamental types of alcohol in Japan. You know what's at the top of the list—but do you know the other 12?
The Spotlight's on Jay Ponazecki
First Time in Japan Deeper Japan
Jay Ponazecki takes time from her daily public service responsibilities to share her recommendations on just where to go during the changing of the seasons.
Japan's Top 4 'Best 3' Sightseeing Spots!
Historical Site World Heritage
Witness the best sightseeing spots Japan has to offer in four official, comprehensive lists.
Getting Set Up in Japan at the ¥100 Store
Moving to Japan? Don't spend more than you have to! You can find many of the things you need right at the ¥100 store!
