Arigato Travel Weblog
THE HAMBURG STEAK: A PLATTER OF HISTORY
As you lie in bed, dozing away after a long day at school, a lovely aroma wafts into your bedroom from the kitchen downstairs, shaking you from your sleep. It seems Mom has cooked up your favorite. You let the savory scent fill your lungs, and […]
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Scenic Spring Road Trips in Japan: 4 Stunning Routes to Explore
As an avid road-tripper myself, I am so looking forward to taking road trips in spring in Japan. Why? Because it’s a season of breathtaking beauty, with cherry blossoms in full bloom, rolling green hills, and soft coastal views. One of the best ways to experience […]
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A Day in Mito: Slow Travel in Ibaraki’s Quiet Castle Town
Just over an hour from Tokyo by train, Mito offers a gentler rhythm of travel that rewards curiosity and patience. As the capital of Ibaraki Prefecture, it carries political history, literary legacy, and one of Japan’s most celebrated gardens, yet it remains refreshingly free of crowds. […]
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Discover Kansai with Sae: Food, Culture, and Memorable Moments
Meet Sae, our vibrant HR & Training Manager, Kansai Regional Coordinator, and guide, whose love for Japanese culture radiates in everything she does. Born in Nagoya and shaped by experiences in New Zealand and Canada, Sae brings a fresh, global perspective to sharing Japan’s charms. From […]
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COMPLETE GUIDE TO ODEN: WHAT’S IN IT AND HOW TO EAT IT
When the cold months arrive in Japan, there’s nothing more comforting than a steaming bowl of oden, a gentle, savory stew where a variety of ingredients simmer slowly in a fragrant dashi broth. You’ll find oden everywhere during winter: in cozy street stalls, lively izakayas (Japanese […]
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SURUGA: JAPAN’S BEST-KEPT SECRET FOR SLOW TRAVEL & WELLNESS
If I say Suruga, you might not recognize the name right away. But if I say it’s in Shizuoka, things probably start to click: Mount Fuji, tea fields, ocean views, that calm Japanese magic, etc. Japan is full of incredible places, and Suruga is one of […]
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IBARAKI: JAPAN’S BEST-KEPT SECRET JUST ONE HOUR FROM TOKYO
If you’ve already explored Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka to their fullest, or you’re simply craving something a little different, Ibaraki Prefecture deserves a spot at the top of your list. Just northeast of Tokyo, this underrated gem offers a perfect mix of beautiful nature, rich history, […]
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7 Heavenly Places to Have Breakfast in Tokyo
If you are planning a trip to Japan, Tokyo must be one of the cities that you are thinking of visiting. And why wouldn’t you? There are a lot of things to do in Japan’s beautiful capital, from fun-filled activities such as going to the tops […]
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Valentine’s Day in Japan: An Intricate Dance of Delicate Feelings
Forget the traditional roses and fancy dinners, Valentine’s Day in Japan takes its own unique turn, where chocolates are in style and love takes on a different flavor. Let’s delve into the delightful world of this cultural celebration, exploring its history, and traditions, and why it’s […]
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Everything You Need To Know About Meiji Chocolate
No matter where you go in Japan, whether it’s a konbini, grocery store, or you’re shopping for souvenirs, you’re bound to run into the Meiji Group brand. Founded in 1916, the Meiji Group continues founder Hanji Souma’s legacy by staying true to his aspiration to ‘contribute […]
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