Onsen/Sentō Manners: Japanese Bathing Etiquette

onsen 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

10 Fun Things to Do in Japan in April

April is the first full month of Spring! April is also the start of a new year for Japanese schools and companies. All of Japan seems to come alive during this time, and it’s a very fun month to be in Japan. From flower festivals to lively parade, here are 10 fun things to do in Japan in April 2019.

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.

Japan’s 7 Most Incredible Castles

Japan castles

Japan has over 200 castles, called shiro (城) in Japanese. Many of these ancient, well-preserved fortresses are Japanese National Treasures. Here are some of the must-see castles in Japan and what they’re famous for!

Japanese to Know: Common “Matsuri” Words

Matsuri, or festivals, are held all over Japan. They’re lively, fun, entertaining, and a great way to experience Japanese culture. Are you thinking of checking out a Japanese festival when you visit Japan? Here are the words to know before you go!

Top 10 Things to Do in Japan in March

March is one of the best months to visit Japan! Not only are the cherry blossoms starting to come into bloom, but there is also an incredible variety of events and festivals happening all across the nation. From the famous “Penis Festival” to ancient fire festivals, here are our top 10 events happening in Japan in March 2019.

Top 10 Tattoo-Friendly Onsen in Japan

onsen fuji

Japan’s onsen (温泉) or natural hot springs, have been a part of Japanese culture for thousands of years. Traditionally, people with tattoos were banned from entering onsen in Japan. However, in recent years, more and more onsen facilities are declaring themselves to be more “tattoo-friendly”.  Here is a list of the top 10 tattoo-friendly onsen in Japan.

Top 10 Things to Do in Japan in January 2019

The New Year certainly kicks off with a bang in Japan! Between dramatic fire festivals and incredible winter illuminations, there are a number of things that you simply can’t miss if you are in Japan this month. Here are our top 10 events happening in Japan in January 2019.

Pictograms in Japan: Toilets, Tourism, and More!

Have you ever seen a Japanese toilet? With the newer toilets, there are so many buttons and symbols that it can be quite confusing for anyone who doesn’t speak Japanese. Not to mention the fact that depending on where you are in Japan, the pictures on the buttons are completely different! Because the 2020 Olympics are being held in Tokyo, … Read More