When the chill of winter sweeps across Japan, few dishes capture the warmth of the season quite like nabe (鍋, hot pot). Families and friends gather around a steaming pot, cooking together at the table and savoring the blend of comforting broth, fresh ingredients, and shared […]
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Coming of Age Day, known in Japan as Seijin no Hi (成人の日), is one of the country’s most heartwarming annual celebrations. It honors young adults stepping into adulthood, traditionally at age 20. Since April 2022, the legal age of adulthood in Japan has been lowered to […]
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Shikoku (四国), an island comprising four prefectures, is a treasure trove of natural beauty, rich traditions, and unique culinary experiences. Often overlooked by travelers rushing between Tokyo and Kyoto, Shikoku offers an authentic Japanese journey where history, culture, and nature seamlessly intertwine. From scenic train rides […]
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Every year on January 7, households across Japan enjoy a warm bowl of Nanakusa-gayu (七草がゆ, seven herb rice porridge). This simple, soothing dish is part of a long-standing tradition meant to bring good health for the year ahead. Although the ingredients are humble, the meaning behind […]
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January in Osaka is crisp, festive, and full of contrasts. The New Year sets a reflective tone across the city, while bright illuminations, lively festivals, and indulgent winter sweets keep the atmosphere cheerful and warm. From centuries-old temple rituals to cutting-edge immersive art, Osaka in January […]
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So you’ve decided to go to Japan! The excitement is bubbling, the Pinterest boards are full of sushi and sakura, and you might even be wondering if you packed enough socks. Before you let your imagination run wild through Kyoto’s alleyways or Tokyo’s neon streets, there […]
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When winter blankets northern Japan in deep snow, Akita Prefecture comes alive with a chilling yet fascinating tradition: Namahage (なまはげ, folklore demons). This legendary ritual blends folklore, community spirit, and a touch of theatrical fright, making it one of Japan’s most unique cultural experiences. Who (or […]
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When you gaze at Lake Biwa (琵琶湖), Japan’s deepest and one of its oldest lakes, you might first see the restless surface of water, or the graceful silhouette of a torii gate reflected at dawn. But beneath that beauty lies a stirring legacy: centuries in which […]
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Traveling in Japan is usually safe and stress-free, but accidents can happen, like misplacing your wallet, phone, or luggage. The good news is that Japan has one of the most efficient and honest lost-and-found systems in the world. If you lose something, there is a very […]
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When autumn sweeps across Japan, the country transforms into a canvas of fiery reds, golden yellows, and deep ambers. While the famous spots are stunning, they are often packed with travelers. This blog will focus primarily on Shizuoka Prefecture, located in the Chūbu region, while also […]
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