Your Guide to Gion, Kyoto’s Famous Geisha District

If you’re fascinated by the atmosphere of old Japan, then Gion is the place for you. Gion (祇園) is Kyoto’s famous Geisha district, as well as the home of the large Gion Matsuri festival held every year in July. Here’s what to do when visiting Gion!

Gion Matsuri: Kyoto’s Famous Month-Long Festival

The Gion Festival (Gion Matsuri 祇園祭) is held every year for an entire month in Kyoto in July, and is one of the most famous festivals in all of Japan. Here is everything you need to know about this timeless, lively celebration!

10 Vending Machines You Can Only Find in Japan

Japanese unique vending machines

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!

Your Guide to Namba, Osaka

osaka namba guide

Located in the South part of Osaka City, Namba is a popular area for shopping, restaurants, night life, with even a few well-preserved historic shrines and alleys. Here are the must-see spots in Namba!

10 Fun Things to Do in Japan in June 2019

よさこい hokkaido matsuri

In Japan, June is a bit of a transition month between spring and summer. Therefore, the events and activities are a mix: including the last flower festivals of the spring, as well as the first lively festivals of the summer! Here are 10 fun things to do in Japan in June 2019.

Tsuyu: Japan’s Rainy Season

hakone in the rain

Does your home country have a rainy season? Japan does, and it occurs every year in the month of June. Here’s everything you should know about tsuyu, Japan’s rainy season.

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!

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

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