When You Wish Upon a Pun
There’s a special reason why Japanese people offer ¥5 coins at temples and shrines.
Visiting 5 Landmarks of Haruki Murakami
Explore five Hanshin-area locations that appear as settings in Haruki Murakami's novels, as well as the landmarks of his life.
4 Day Trip Destinations to Escape from Tokyo!
Mount Takao First Time in Japan
Tokyo is definitely one of the most exciting and interesting cities in Japan, but there are so many other places that are definitely worth visiting!
A National Who’s Whooo of Owl Cafés
Who wouldn’t want to snuggle up and nestle down in an owl café? We’ve lined up eight adorable and outstanding branches where you can unruffle in peace.
How to Choose Your Apartment in Japan
First Time in Japan Life in Japan
There's nothing more satisfying than finally settling down in your new pad. Here are some useful tips that can help you when choosing your new apartment in Japan.
The 6 Main Types of 'Omamori'
Temples & Shrines Life in Japan
These good luck charms can provide you with all kinds of special help!
Top 5 Job Sites in Japan
We've gathered the best English-language sites to help you with your job search in Japan!
Essential Tips for Navigating Trains
Day-to-day transit in Japan can be confusing for the uninitiated. Don't worry! We're here to help.
A Gamer's Approach to Tokyo's Trains
Tokyo's train system is challenging! So why not view it like a game to be won?
The Dos & Don'ts of Staying at a 'Ryokan'
Before staying at a traditional Japanese 'ryokan' inn, you may want to brush up on these etiquette rules.
Japanese Alcohol: From Hokkaido to Okinawa
There are more than 1,800 sake breweries and shochu distilleries in Japan. Highlighting Japan has profiled nine leading representatives from Hokkado to Okinawa.
A Fulbright Fellow's First Time in Japan
Some of us came to Japan for work, others for fun and adventure. For Ari Beser, Japan held the answers to understanding his family's past and gave him the tools he needed to help shape the future.
8 Unique Rules of Japanese Public Spaces
First Time in Japan Life in Japan
While breaking these rules won’t send you to jail, you should know what behavior to avoid before bringing it to Japan.
How & When to Apologize in Japan
Learning Japanese Life in Japan
Apology is a kind of social currency in Japan. But using it well isn't just about knowing what words to use—you also need to know when and how to use them!
The 6 Weirdest Cafés in Tokyo
As much fun as it is to gawk at Tokyo's shops and sky rises, it’s just as much fun to stop into a themed café to wet your whistle and enjoy an immaculately presented bite to eat.
8 Accommodation Options in Japan
So, you're planning your first trip or long-term move to Japan and you’re afraid you’ll end up under a bridge, alone and cold, unable to find a roof? This article is for you!
A Helpful Guide to Healthcare in Japan
No matter where you live, it's good to have at least a general sense of how the health and medical care system works.
First Day for a ‘Shakaijin’
So you've been hired to be part of Japan's work force? Congratulations! Check this out for some helpful tips and explanations about your first day.
Driving in Japan
As in many countries, city traffic in Japan may be congested and not much fun. But once you get into the countryside and the mountains, driving in Japan can be a real pleasure.
Full List: Japan’s UNESCO Shrines & Temples!
World Heritage Temples & Shrines
Japan is home to thousands of historic shrines and temples, and a good few of them are UNESCO World Heritage Sites. A visit to just one can give insight into Japanese culture.