Have you tasted Japanese green tea? If not, I highly recommend visiting Wazuka town in Kyoto prefecture for an unforgettable, unique Japanese tea experience. I had the pleasure of visiting Wazuka town recently with my friend and participating in a tea cooking class at Wazuka-ya. It’s a vegetarian friendly cooking too. Let me tell you all about it! Where is … Read More
Everything You Can Do at a Japanese Konbini!
In Japan, you can’t walk a single block without passing at least one convenience store, or “konbini” (コンビニ) in Japanese. As of March 2022, there are 58,133 convenience stores in Japan, and the major ones are 7-Eleven, Family Mart, and Lawson. Chances are you’ve already heard about convenient Japan’s konbini are, but there are lots of other things that you … Read More
What You Probably Didn’t Know About Kobe Beef
When you hear “Kobe”, what do you think of? When people hear the word Kobe, the first thing that comes to mind is professional basketball player Kobe Bryant who has won five NBA titles with the Los Angeles Lakers.
Japan’s Golden Week Holiday: 2023
Golden Week (ゴールデンウィーク) is a highly celebrated holiday season in Japan known for its bustling atmosphere and lively festivities. This year, by taking just two weekdays off as paid leave, you can extend your Golden Week experience to a full nine days! To help you make the most of this exciting time, we’ve compiled all the essential information you need … Read More
The Art of Sake Making: A Comprehensive Guide
Sake(酒), the beloved Japanese rice wine, has been a cherished part of Japanese lifestyle and culture for centuries. Its rich history and cultural significance have captivated people worldwide, particularly with the growing popularity of Japanese cuisine. In this blog, we will explore the fascinating history of sake, delve into the intricate sake-making process, and learn how to appreciate the distinct … Read More
Hikone Castle: A Timeless Treasure of Japan
Hikone castle, a stunning fortress in Shiga prefecture, Japan, is a must-visit destination. I was fortunate enough to visit this castle during the Sakura season, when Japan’s iconic cherry blossoms burst into bloom. But even without the added beauty of the Sakura, Hikone castle stands as one of Japan’s most stunning historical sites. Located in Shiga prefecture, the castle boasts … Read More
Sakura Viewing in Daigoji Temple, Kyoto
Daigoji Temple, established in 874 and designated as a World Heritage Site, is renowned as a popular destination for cherry blossom viewing. It is where Toyotomi Hideyoshi famously hosted his “Daigo no Hanami” cherry blossom viewing party. The temple’s magnificent grounds, adorned with two national treasures; a stunning five-story pagoda (五重塔) and Kondō (金堂 Golden Hall) and other historic buildings, … Read More
Kōban 交番, Japanese neighborhood police box
In Japan, the Kōban, or neighborhood police box, is a ubiquitous feature of the urban landscape. These small police stations, typically staffed by one or two officers, play a critical role in maintaining community safety and order. They serve as a point of contact for residents and visitors, provide information and assistance, and work closely with other local authorities to … Read More
Inuyama Castle 犬山城 ~ A Timeless Wonder of Japan
Inuyama Castle is one of five national treasure castles located in Inuyama City, Aichi Prefecture. The castle is a magnificent example of Japanese architecture, and it is one of the oldest surviving castles in Japan, dating back to the 16th century. Inuyama Castle stands tall on a hill overlooking the Kiso River and the surrounding landscape, and it has been … Read More
Japan’s 5 Most Unique Festivals
Immerse yourself in Japan’s rich Matsuri culture, where over 300,000 festivals are celebrated annually, ranging from small local events to grand Shinto Shrine gatherings. These Matsuri festivals come in different sizes and styles, ranging from tranquil and intimate to energetic and lively. Delve into this captivating culture and discover some of Japan’s unique and unusual Matsuri celebrations with our list … Read More