How to Wear a Yukata at a Ryokan
When staying at a Japanese-style inn, or 'ryokan,' you may wear a kind of light cotton robe called a 'yukata.' While much simpler to wear than a kimono, there are still a few things you should know!
Do You Know All the Different Types of Kimono?
Did you know that there are actually a dozen different kinds of kimono? Try to name more than two!
New Year’s Food in Japan
Travel to Japan to taste New Year’s specialties and ensure success for the following year.
Best Seasonal 'Wagashi' Throughout the Year
Seasonality is a key to Japanese culture. Each season brings exciting and different things to do, see and, of course, eat! Here are our favorite traditional Japanese sweets, or 'wagashi,' for each each season.
All the Public Holidays in Japan
While Japan may be famous for its grueling work ethic, the nation actually has a surprising number of national holidays—nearly one every month. Find out when you can get a day off to enjoy the rising sun!
Learn About Japanese Culture from... a Cat?!
Bow down to your new furry sensei who will teach you all about Japanese holidays and culture.
Japan-Exclusive National Holidays
Need a break from the long hours of working in Japan? Let's take a look at Japan-only national holidays that can't be found in any other country.
Modern-Day Demon Invades Akihabara
In Japanese folklore there exists a traditional beast-like deity called the Namahage. Inspired by this tradition, media artist Etsuko Ichihara created a modern-day version of the Namahage specifically for Tokyo.
East Japan Shines in 5 Videos of Wintry Wonder
If you can't make your way out to Fukushima, Tochigi or Ibaraki Prefectures, Diamond Route Japan is bringing their majesty to your screen in five breathtaking videos that will have you packing your bags immediately!
Dress Up As a Samurai or Geisha in Kyoto
Dress up like a maiko, geisha or samurai in Kyoto, where you’ll discover the traditional landscape of a classic Japanese city.
The Top 11 Hot Spring Hot Spots in Japan!
Before modern medicine was invented, onsen (hot springs) were revered as sacred places blessed with magical healing properties. During the Edo Period, sick patients would soak in the onsen for weeks to leave the pools feeling healthy and refreshed!
These 4 Traditional Sweets Will Take You Back
A quick and easy guide to 'wagashi,' or traditional Japanese sweets.
Saiki Spring Festival Lights up the Night
20,000 bamboo lanterns brighten the night in this sleepy seaside town.
Fashioning a Wedding Dress Out of a Kimono
These dresses made from redesigned antique kimono should definitely make the bride feel special on her big day!
History of Same-Sex Samurai Love in Edo Japan
Thinking about samurai conjures up images of swords, honor, battles and blood. Chances are, homosexual relationships didn't enter your mind... until now.
Flock with the Seagulls at Kabushima Shrine
Take flight with our writer Nick as he heads back to Tohoku to visit a shrine that's quite literally 'for the birds!'
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!
Change the Way You Think About Tea Ceremony
Not all tea ceremonies are created equal. Some are traditional and stuffy; this one is 'avant-garde.'
Are the Japanese Losing their Sense of Smell?
When we cover ourselves in scents, can we still appreciate the refined subtlety of Japanese cuisine?
The 11 Best Things to See in Golden Week
Golden Week is the biggest holiday of the year in Japan, and these 11 spots and events each offer something unique that can only be experienced at this time of year. You don't want to miss them!
