Kagurazaka: Fusion of Kyoto and Paris in Tokyo
Kagurazaka is an eclectic mix of Edo Japan and French influences. Although originally known for geishas in the Edo era, it is now a hub for fine dining and delicious street food.
Get a Local Resort Experience at OMO5
Don't choose between a resort experience and a cultural experience. Get the full experience at the Hoshino Resorts OMO5 Tokyo Otsuka, a chic hotel that focuses on connecting its visitors to the local environment.
Getting to Grips with Plastic in Japan
Life in Japan Japan Tips From Locals
Tips on how to navigate and—more importantly—avoid the ubiquitous, single-use plastic you'll find all over Japan.
A Perfect Weekend in Gifu
Itinerary Japan Tips From Locals
Easily accessible from Tokyo, Kyoto, Nagoya and Osaka, Gifu is the perfect location for a perfect weekend. Enjoy this local expert's tour itinerary to the unique art of cormorant fishing, a large gold statue of Buddha, and the classic Gifu Castle.
JR East to Offer Half-Price Shinkansen Tickets
Good news for anyone residing in Japan; JR East has announced a 50% discount on Shinkansen and limited express tickets until spring next year!
A Perfect Weekend in Kobe
Kobe is Kansai's best-kept secret. Its foreign influence is a great attraction, while often overlooked is its ancient history and natural beauty. This guide sets you on track for an awesome weekend getaway.
Five Hokkaido Dishes to Warm Up Your Winter!
When the winter weather on Japan's northern island of Hokkaido turns delightfully cold, you can be sure that these local dishes will warm you up from the inside.
Discover the Secret Life of Grandmas at Sugamo
Retro Japan Japan Tips From Locals
Sugamo is not typically considered by tourists to be a thriving area, but among Tokyoites, it's known as the "Harajuku of Grandmas."
The City of Himeji: More than Just a Castle
Himeji is a major destination for many visitors to Japan thanks to its spectacular castle, but there is far more to experience in this compact city, filled with history, regional foods, and friendly locals!
LGBT Partnerships in Japan: One Step Forward
Gay marriage in Japan is still not a reality, but partnership systems and certificates are slowly gaining ground. Read on to find out more about options for same-sex couples in Japan looking to tie the knot.
5 Easy Ways to Save Money Living in Japan
Life in Japan Japan Tips From Locals
It's never a bad idea to try to save a little money! Check out these 5 thrifty tricks to help you save your hard-earned yennies while living in Japan!
Bear Attacks in Japan: There Is A Solution
Tried and True Ways to Coexist as told by a bear conservationist
6 Romantic Offbeat Spots to Propose in Japan
Thinking of proposing to your partner during your trip to Japan? These lesser-known spots in Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka and Hiroshima are perfect for popping that all-important question!
Explore the Sumo World at Kokugikan Street
The best place to experience authentic sumo wrestler culture is at Kokugikan Street in Ryogoku. You can learn about sumo wrestling, watch a sumo match, and even eat like a sumo wrestler.
Meet One of Tokyo's Coolest Neighborhoods: Meguro
Coffee culture, antiques . . . even a Pig Cafe: Tokyo's Meguro is definitely worth a train stop.
No More Soggy Sushi With This Simple Hack
Despite the discussions surrounding whether to eat sushi with your chopsticks, with your hands, or even upside down, one of our reporters has a simple but effective way to eat sushi without breaking its shape and embarrassing yourself in the process.
The Importance of Continuing Social Distancing
Although the state of emergency has been lifted throughout the country, the COVID-19 pandemic has taught the world the importance of social distancing, as well as consistent hygiene practices.
Renew or Change Japanese Visas Online
Life in Japan Japan Tips From Locals
Japan moves to allow foreign resident to change and/or renew their visas online from 2021.
Retro Street Food at Asakusa Denbouin Street
After visiting Asakusa's Sensoji Shrine, enjoy a leisurely afternoon eating traditional street food and finding hidden thieves on the nearby Denbouin Street.
Enjoy a Public Bath from the Privacy of Home
Some public bath houses in Japan are doing their part to support social distancing by uploading videos of their soothing baths.
