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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Jimi Halloween (地味ハロウィン) means “plain,” “subdued,” or “mundane Halloween.” It is a Japanese subculture and trend where people dress up in costumes that are very ordinary, even boring: everyday situations, awkwardness, and oddly specific scenarios are the costumes. Instead of being spooky, fantastical, or flashy, the […]
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As the crisp air and vibrant foliage of autumn sweep across the Northern Hemisphere, a culinary treasure emerges from the forest floor: the matsutake mushroom. Revered for centuries in East Asia, particularly in Japan, this wild mushroom is more than just a seasonal ingredient. It is […]
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If you’ve ever visited Japan in the autumn, you may have noticed people pausing to admire the full moon, often with a tray of round rice dumplings nearby. This is Tsukimi (月見), Japan’s traditional moon-viewing festival, a beautiful celebration of the harvest moon and the changing […]
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Tokyo just got a little more magical! Japan’s first flagship Harry Potter shop in Harajuku has officially opened its doors, and it is everything a wizard or a Muggle could dream of. Whether you are a lifelong fan of J.K. Rowling’s books, obsessed with the films, […]
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