Journal

  1. Planning an Izu Peninsula trip for hot springs, coastlines, and wasabiThe Izu Peninsula is one of Japan’s easiest escapes from Tokyo, yet its scenery feels far removed from the capital. Volcanic mountains, rugged Pacific shores,…
  2. The most unique accommodations in JapanJapan offers far more than city hotels and traditional ryokan. A night in a Buddhist temple, a morning spent feeding goats on a rural farm, or an evening in a…
  3. Japan’s Seven Lucky Gods: Temples, Symbols, and Pilgrimage RoutesJapan’s Seven Lucky Gods, known as Shichifukujin, bring together deities connected with prosperity, longevity, wisdom, courage, happiness, and good fortune.…
  4. Exploring Kyoto’s Sannenzaka and Ninenzaka StreetsFew places in Kyoto capture the atmosphere of old Japan as vividly as Sannenzaka and Ninenzaka. These adjoining lanes climb toward Kiyomizu-dera Temple through…
  5. How to Order Food in Japanese Without Speaking the LanguageOrdering a meal in Japan can feel intimidating when you do not speak Japanese, but most restaurants are easier to navigate than first-time visitors expect.…
  6. The Best Onsen Towns Near Tokyo for a Relaxing EscapeJapan’s hot spring towns offer far more than a bath in naturally heated water. They combine mountain scenery, traditional inns, regional food, shrine visits,…
  7. A Self-Guided Walking Tour of Kyoto’s Philosopher’s Path in AutumnKyoto’s Philosopher’s Path is at its most atmospheric in autumn, when maple leaves turn red and gold beside a narrow canal. The route connects several…
  8. Why You Should Visit the Kubota Itchiku Art MuseumOn the northern shore of Lake Kawaguchi, the Kubota Itchiku Art Museum offers a remarkable way to experience Japanese art, craftsmanship, and landscape…
  9. The Most Beautiful Waterfalls in Japan: Nachi, Kegon, and FukurodaJapan’s waterfalls range from powerful single drops beside ancient pilgrimage routes to broad, tiered cascades hidden in forests. Among the country’s most…
  10. How to Find Authentic Ramen in Tokyo: A Chef’s GuideTokyo ramen is less a single dish than a map of local habits. A bowl in Ogikubo may emphasize a clean, soy-based soup, while one in Ikebukuro may be rich with…