What to Know About Japanese Vending MachinesJapan’s vending machines are far more than convenient drink dispensers. They are part of everyday life, appearing beside train stations, rural roads, school…
A self-guided walk through Tokyo’s Ueno ParkUeno Park is one of Tokyo’s most rewarding areas for a relaxed day on foot. Within a relatively compact space, the park brings together quiet temple grounds,…
Your First Japanese Baseball Game Made EasyWatching a baseball game in Japan is a lively way to experience everyday local culture. The sport combines organized chants, regional pride, stadium food, and…
The Best Time to Visit Japan for Each RegionJapan stretches from the snowy northern island of Hokkaido to the subtropical beaches of Okinawa, so there is no single best month for the entire country. The…
Exploring Ainu culture around Lake Akan in HokkaidoLake Akan sits in eastern Hokkaido, surrounded by volcanic mountains, deep forests, and the wide landscapes of Akan-Mashu National Park. The area is famous for…
A guide to the different types of Japanese green teaJapanese green tea is more varied than the familiar green powder or bottled drink found in convenience stores. Differences in cultivation, shading, steaming,…
The Etiquette of Eating Sushi in JapanEating sushi in Japan is a meal, a craft, and a social experience. Whether you are visiting a small neighborhood restaurant, a conveyor-belt sushi chain, or an…
What to do in Fukuoka: Canal City and yatai stallsFukuoka is one of Japan’s easiest cities to explore in a single day. The main attractions are close together, the subway is simple to use, and the city’s food…