Did you know that Sapporo isn’t your only option when it comes to Japanese snow festivals? Believe it or not, but between December and March, there are places in Japan that get some of the deepest...
Japan Culuture & Language
Dive into the heart of Japanese culture. These blogs cover everything from ancient traditions to pop culture and language learning.
New Year’s Fireworks in Tokyo: Where to Welcome in 2026
Are you looking for New Year’s fireworks in Tokyo and…struggling? Don’t worry, it’s a rite of passage for Westerners spending the holidays in Japan to discover that things are done a little...
Kintsugi in Japan: Why You Should Experience the Art of Golden Repair
Meta: You have probably seen photos of it before: a cracked ceramic bowl that hasn't been thrown away, but instead repaired with a striking line of gold. It looks beautiful, but we think the...
Mochitsuki: Trying an Authentic Mochi Pounding Experience in Japan
We always tell our clients: getting mochi from a shop is great, but making it yourself is a completely different experience. To get that perfect texture (warm, soft, and incredibly stretchy!), you...
How to Experience Pop Culture in Japan: The Complete 101 Guide
I think it’s safe to say that pop culture in Japan isn’t like anywhere else in the world. It incorporates an incredible kaleidoscope of things and is somehow both one of Japan’s most defining...
What is Omakase Sushi? Guide to Japan’s Ultimate Food Experience
We know the feeling well. You duck under the noren curtains, slide open the wooden door, and step into a hushed room. The chef looks up from the counter, and suddenly, you feel a bit out of your...
Ultimate Guide to Otaku Culture in Japan
These days, being an otaku has gone global. Fans and hobbyists all over the world have proudly taken on the title, joining the online community of their particular special interest. But, what does...
15 Anime Places in Real Life (That You Can Visit on an Anime Tour of Japan)
Let’s be really honest, visiting Japan is probably the top bucket list icon for almost every otaku out there. Being able to make the trip to experience everything you’ve watched on screen in real...
30 Cultural Experiences in Japan for a Truly Authentic Trip
I know that getting away from all the tourists to find something truly authentic can be tricky, but trust me, finding authentic cultural experiences is possible. Japan is incredibly proud of its...
Is a Koyasan Temple Stay Worth It? An Honest First-Hand Review & Guide
Our first-hand guide to a Koyasan temple stay. We share what to expect, how to book, and if it’s really worth it.
3 Ways to Experience Sumo in Japan: Tournament, Morning Practice & Interactive Lunch
When travellers ask us for a truly Japanese cultural experience, watching sumo is always high on our list. It’s an incredible mix of power, history, and tradition. Seeing it live is a real highlight...
Kyoto Sake Tasting: A Guide to the Best Breweries of Fushimi & Beyond
When you think of Kyoto, what comes to mind? Probably temples, shrines, and maybe some beautiful old streets, right? While all that is true, there's another amazing thing to do in Kyoto that you...
Japanese Culture, Customs, and Expectations to Know Before You Go
Get to know the everything you need to about Japanese culture to ensure an amazing Japan trip, including traditions, customs, and even pop culture.
Crafts Galore at The Kyoto Museum of Crafts and Design
Meta: Travel off the beaten path of Kyoto with an entertaining and educational visit to the Museum of Crafts and Design. Kyoto has long been the cultural heart of Japan. After a thousand years as...
Shamisen Lesson: Unlocking an Authentic Japan Cultural Experience
I recently had the chance to experience firsthand a Shamisen lesson by a professional Master, and it was unforgettable. I didn’t just get to touch the instrument, but also learned how to play an...