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Explore Tokyo Like a Local: 5 Hidden Gems You’ll Never Forget
Tokyo is a city bursting with hidden gems outside of what makes up the “top ten” lists you’re likely to come across with a cursory search online. With the yen’s depreciation, Japan’s famous tourist spots are currently overflowing with visitors. If you’re not a fan of […]
Top 5 Japanese Winter Vegetables
As the weather cools down, some of Japan’s best produce becomes sweeter. Japanese winter cuisine ranges from hearty nabe to crispy fried tempura and steaming bowls of soba noodles. Many Japanese dishes rely heavily on fresh vegetables as their primary ingredients. Here is your guide to […]
Arigato Travel × Tokyo Comic Con 2025
Bringing Japan’s Culture, Flavor, and Pop Culture Magic to the World Every December, Tokyo Comic Con transforms Makuhari Messe into a world of imagination, where film, comics, gaming, cosplay, and creativity collide. And this year, Arigato Travel is honored to step into that world as the […]
Let’s Go to Tokyo’s best Flea Market and Antiques Event: The Setagaya Boroichi
When the crisp winter air fills the streets of Tokyo, there’s no better way to immerse yourself in the city’s rich culture and traditions than by visiting the Setagaya Boroichi. Held twice a year, this lively cultural flea market is a must-visit event, taking place on […]
December Light, Clear Intent: 31 Affirmations for Japan Lovers
December in Japan arrives like soft lantern light—gentle, precise, and full of meaning. Streets glow with winter illuminations, temple courtyards sit in crisp stillness, and kitchens fill with the comfort of hot pots and citrus steam. It’s a month for closing circles with care: finishing what […]
Namahage & Winter Traditions of Akita: A Journey into Japan’s Folklore
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 […]
WELCOMING DEEP HEALTH AND COMMUNITY IN KYOTO INTERVIEW WITH NOKUBO MATSUZAKA OF OKAMI LABO
To start, could you briefly introduce yourself and share what led you to open OKAMI LABO? How long has it been open? Hello, my name is Nobuko Matsuzaka, the owner of Chōkatsu OKAMI LABO. After graduating from university in Tokyo, I worked for five years as […]
Things to Do in Osaka in December 2025
Osaka in December is a city of dazzling energy, where the crisp winter air is filled with the scent of street food and the glow of massive illuminations. The city’s famous bravado shines brightest this month as it decks itself out in millions of lights, hosts […]
Things to do in Tokyo in December 2025
December is a month of celebrations with Christmas and New Year’s events! To enter the winter season smoothly, Tokyo puts on a costume and becomes a city of festivities. Hosting so many events, there is certainly no going wrong when it comes to things to do […]
Things to Do in Kyoto in December 2025
Kyoto in December brings a quieter, more reflective vibe. With chillier air, softly lit streets, and the glow of year-end traditions, the city invites you to slow down and soak in its timeless atmosphere. The crisp, cold air makes the zen gardens feel even more peaceful, […]