Journal

  1. The art of Japanese tea ceremony: a beginner’s experienceMy first encounter with Japanese tea ceremony was quieter than I expected. There was no grand performance or hurried explanation. Instead, I entered a small…
  2. Exploring the samurai history of Kanazawa’s Nagamachi districtNagamachi is one of Kanazawa’s most atmospheric historic neighborhoods. Narrow lanes, earthen walls, stone-lined waterways, and carefully preserved residences…
  3. What to pack for a Japanese winter tripA Japanese winter can feel very different depending on where you travel. Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, and Hiroshima usually have cold, dry winters, while Hokkaido and…
  4. How to Plan a Day Trip to Nikko from TokyoNikko is one of the easiest cultural escapes from Tokyo, combining ornate shrines, cedar forests, mountain scenery, and a long history connected with the…
  5. The best cherry blossom viewing spots in Tokyo that locals loveTokyo’s cherry blossom season is famous for packed riversides, illuminated avenues, and picnic blankets beneath pale pink trees. Yet the city offers far more…
  6. A Practical Guide to Buying a JR Pass and Maximizing Its ValueJapan’s railway network makes it possible to travel between major cities, mountain towns, historic districts, and regional airports with impressive speed. For…
  7. Why Okinawa’s Beaches Are Different from the Rest of JapanOkinawa’s beaches feel unlike many coastal areas on Japan’s main islands. The water is often brighter, the sand can be unusually pale, and coral reefs shape…
  8. Japan’s Most Scenic Train Journeys From Coast to MountainsJapan’s railway network is famous for punctuality and efficiency, but its greatest pleasure often comes from slowing down. Beyond the major Shinkansen routes,…
  9. A food lover’s guide to Osaka’s Dotonbori districtDotonbori is Osaka’s most famous dining quarter, where bright signs, crowded arcades, canal views, and sizzling food create an energetic introduction to the…
  10. How to Use a Japanese Public Bath for the First TimeA Japanese public bath, or sento, is a simple and affordable way to experience everyday life in Japan. Unlike many tourist attractions, a sento is part of the…