Common Myths About Japan That AREN’T True

eating rice

If you’re visiting Japan for the first time, there will certainly be some things that don’t match your expectations. You may be surprised to see some well-known stereotypes turn out to be completely false! Here’s a few common myths about Japan that actually aren’t true.

Japan, a Hotel Powerhouse

Hotel of Japan

Whether you’re planning a trip to Japan for the first time or you’re a seasoned traveler, you’ll find a variety of accommodation options to suit your needs and preferences. Japan is known for its unique and traditional styles of lodging, as well as modern and luxurious options. From budget-friendly hostels to high-end ryokans, there’s something for everyone in Japan. In … Read More

Valentine’s Day in Japan

Valentine's Day in Japan

February 14th is Valentine’s Day! In Japan, Valentine’s Day is a chance for women to show their appreciation to the different men in their lives. Here’s what the massive $800 million Valentine’s Day industry looks like in Japan.

Japanese Kawaii Culture: The World of Cute and Adorable

Kawaii japan

Japan is renowned for its unique and diverse culture, one of which is the kawaii culture. Kawaii, which means “cute” or “adorable” in Japanese, is a pervasive cultural phenomenon that has captured the hearts of people all around the world. From fashion to art, kawaii is an ever-present aspect of Japanese culture that has been gaining popularity over the past … Read More

Christmas in Japan

The Christmas season in Japan is a magical time of the year. True, Christmas Day is not recognized as a national holiday, as only about 1 percent of the whole population in Japan is Christian. However, many of the things traditionally related to Christmas, such as decorations in shopping malls, colorful LED lights, and festive Christmas markets can be found all across Japan … Read More

Halloween in JAPAN!

Japan is well-known for its love of crazy costumes and candies, so it seems only natural that Halloween would be widely celebrated throughout the country. However, Halloween has only recently become a popular holiday in Japan, and the way the Japanese celebrate it might be different than in your own home country. Here’s what Halloween looks like in Japan!

Kawaii: Japan’s Obsession With All Things Cute

bow down to hello kitty

Kawaii (かわいい) is one of the most commonly used words in the Japanese language. Translated as “cute” in English, it can be used to describe all things cute – people, babies, animals, clothing, decorations, stationary – you name it. When the kawaii trend originated, it was only popular with pre-teen girls. So why is it that today in Japan, it’s … Read More

Why Japanese People Wear Masks

Masks in Japan

In Western countries, if you saw someone walking around wearing a surgical mask, you might be surprised and assume they have some sort of illness or just came from a hospital! But in Japan, and many other countries in Asia, wearing a surgical mask as you go about your daily life is completely normal. Here’s a look into why Japanese … Read More

Amezaiku: Japan’s Incredible Animal-Shaped Candy Art

Amezaiku (飴細工) is traditional Japanese candy art. Making the incredibly detailed candies isn’t easy, as the material must be quickly molded by hand when it is still extremely hot! The best amezaiku artists can create unbelievably realistic-looking animal shapes, and some artisans also double as street performers who perform magic tricks and tell stories along with their candy craft entertainment. … 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!