All About Japan All About Japan

Fresh start every Monday!

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!

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

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'

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

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

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!

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.

know-before-you-go