Must-Have Apps for Your Trip to Japan

Japan Travel Apps

If you’re using a smartphone, traveling around Japan has never been easier or more convenient! From helping you read Japanese menus to navigating the Japanese train system, here are the must-have apps to make you get the most out of your trip to Japan!

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

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.

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

What Happens During a Japanese Wedding Ceremony

What Happens During a Japanese Wedding Ceremony Have you ever been to a wedding in Japan? Do you imagine a traditional Japanese wedding ceremony to date back thousands of years? You may be surprised to learn that Shinto weddings, known in Japanese as shinzen kekkon (神前結婚), “Marriage before the gods”, did not actually begin in Japan until the early 20th century. … Read More

Byakugouji’s Fuji (Wisteria) Festival

wisteria beautiful person 藤美女

Witness a majestic sight this spring in Japan – delicate fuji (藤) wisteria cascading from the branches like purple ribbons, decorating some of the most beautiful places. Gather with many others to experience one such spectacular display at Byakugouji (白毫寺) Temple, located in Tanba City!

Himeji Castle: A National Treasure

Himeji Castle is commonly regarded as the most beautiful castle in all of Japan. Not only do its famous white walls and incredible 600-year history make it a national treasure, but it is also an official World Cultural Heritage Site.