All About Japan

3 Ways to Get More Out of a Temple Visit

Three can't-miss activities during a Japanese temple or shrine pilgrimage.

Top 3 Part-Time Jobs During the Holidays

The end of December is the busiest time of year in Japan, so almost everywhere is looking for extra help!

6 Things to Do Before New Year's Hits in Japan

Before the clock strikes midnight on January 1, here are a few things that should be checked off before you ring in the New Year!

What is Otoshidama?

While visions of sugar-plums dance in the heads of children celebrating Christmas, Japanese kids dream of opening an envelope with a special gift inside.

Japan's 8 Creepiest Shrines & Temples

Most temples and shrines will bring you a sense of harmony and peace. However, some also come with their share of unnerving events and creepy stories.

5 Vital Temple & Shrine Etiquette Tips

While going to a temple or shrine simply to observe is satisfactory on its own, it's well worth learning how to fully participate to get the most out of the experience.

5 Fun Otoshidama Envelopes

What's better than getting an envelope full of money at New Year's? How about a cool-looking envelope full of money!

5 Classic Cultural Activities in Saitama

Located just north of Tokyo, Saitama Prefecture has preserved beautiful pockets of traditional Japan. While there's much to see, there's just as much that you can try out first-hand!

New Year's Photos in the Meiji Period

Ever wonder what New Year's would be like in Japan at the turn of the 20th century? Thanks to photographer Kozaburo Tamura, we can take a glimpse into New Year's past!

8 Things to Know About New Year's in Japan

All about Japan's biggest holiday of the year!

How to Choose a Geisha Experience in Kyoto

From private dinners with maiko to evening walks to catch a glimpse of the famous entertainers, get the lowdown on the various ways you can meet Kyoto's renowned geisha!

No Trees, No Kiyomizu-dera

What are the three most notable woody materials used in the construction of Kiyomizu-dera?

New Year's at Naritasan Shinshoji Temple!

Texan in Tokyo takes you on a traditional Japanese New Year's journey!

The Secrets in Japan's 2016 New Year's Cards

Can you spot the tiny crustaceans in this image? What else are Japan Post's 2016 "nengajo" hiding?

Celebrate Oshogatsu Like a Native!

Learn all about how to celebrate New Year's in Japan!

Interpreting the Key 'Omikuji'

These Japanese fortune-telling papers can bring you great blessings—or a great curse!

6 Most-Visited New Year's Shrines & Temples

Check out these statistics to find out which temple or shrine has the largest number of attendees during New Year's—and maybe find out the spots to avoid!

5 Popular Love Shrines

Check out these endearing shrines if you're looking for a love blessing!

Spoil Yourself with New Year's Mystery Bags

If you’ve ever visited Japan or Japanese online shops around New Year's, you’re bound to have seen some mysterious bags called 'fukuburo' appearing on the shelves. Read on to find out how to get the most out of them!

7 Japanese New Year's Traditions Explained

One of Japan's most important holidays, New Year's, brings with it unique customs—some of which date back all the way to the 800s.

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