May in Japan is packed with a number of festivals – this is in part due to the Golden Week holiday period that happens every year for several days in early May. Then, the rest of the month is filled with good weather, sunshine, flowers, and lots of food and festivities! Here are 10 fun things to do in Japan … Read More
3 Reasons Why You Should Have Geta
Do you know Geta? Before the Edo period (1603-1868), Japanese people wore traditional wooden clogs known as Geta or Zōri with their yukata or kimono. They are similar to the modern slippers we are familiar with today, except that their structure is slightly different and they are made from different materials.
What are the Different Japanese Household Shrines and Altars?
If you’ve ever been to Japan, then you may have marveled at its numerous shrines and national temples like the Meiji Jingu Shrine in Tokyo, and the Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine in Kyoto. The Japanese give utmost importance and respect to these shrines for they are considered places of worship and the dwellings of the kami, or the Shinto “gods”. … Read More
Top 10 Must-Do Activities & Experiences in Japan
When you travel somewhere, it’s not only about where you go, but also what you experience while you’re there. If you visit Japan, be sure to make the most of your trip by doing activities and having memorable experiences that you wouldn’t be able to have anywhere else in the world! From enjoying an over-the-top spectacle at the Robot Restaurant, … Read More
How to Keep Cool During Summer in Japan
Summer in Japan packs a serious punch! Especially from late July through August, when temperatures reach an average of 80° Fahrenheit (30C). And, since the humidity during the summer months is about 80%, this can make it feel like 100° outside. Here is how to beat the heat during summer in Japan.
10 Vending Machines You Can Only Find in Japan
Japan is a vending machine heaven! Called jidōhanbaiki (自動販売機) in Japanese, vending machines can be found all over cities, towns and even in the countryside. And, there’s much more than just drinks for sale… here is a list of 10 crazy vending machines you can only find in Japan!
10 Japanese Mascots You Won’t Believe Actually Exist
In Japan, almost every city, town, company, or even local event, has its own mascot. Some mascot characters like Rilakkuma or Domo-kun have become household names in Japan, but the vast majority of characters aren’t widely known outside of their local area. There are thousands of different mascots, and some are incredibly strange! You won’t believe these 10 bizarre mascots that … Read More
Onsen/Sentō Manners: Japanese Bathing Etiquette
Japanese onsen (温泉: hot springs) or sentō (銭湯: public baths), are are enjoyed by anyone of all ages. Onsen use hot water taken from a natural hot spring, while sentō use tap water heated by boilers. Both onsen and sentō are very enjoyable to Japanese and foreigners alike, but there is a set of unspoken instructions you should know before you … Read More
Gacha-Gacha: Japan’s Capsule Toys
Japan’s capsule toys are popular with people of all ages! If you take a walk down a city street in Japan, it’s very likely you’ll come across the famous Gacha-Gacha machines. Here’s everything you should know about these pocket-sized toys!
All About Japan’s VENDING MACHINES
Japan is a vending machine heaven! There is about 1 vending machine for every 23 people in Japan. Called jidōhanbaiki (自動販売機) in Japanese, vending machines can be found all over cities, towns and even in the countryside. And, there’s more than just drinks for sale! Here’s everything you need to know about Japan’s amazing vending machines.