Arigato Travel Weblog
Things to do in Osaka in May 2024
Festival season is year-round in Japan, especially in the bustling Osaka city. Osaka is the largest city in the Kansai region and has been a focal point for Japan’s economy and culture for centuries. Osaka has it all, friendly and outgoing people, local peculiarities and festivities, […]
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THINGS TO DO IN TOKYO IN MAY 2024
The end of April and the start of May is part of Golden Week in Japan. Many Japanese citizens and residents use this time to travel, and as a result, many spots are likely to be crowded, and many local businesses may be closed. However, the […]
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Taste of Hibiya: A Pocket of Japanese Culture and History
While not an “official” Tokyo neighborhood, the Hibiya area is known as a business and theater district and is considered as one of the most important neighborhoods of Japan’s capital city. Part of the Chiyoda Ward, the heart of Tokyo, Hibiya refers to a small area […]
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Savoring the Suds: Craft Beer in Niigata Prefecture
Explore microbreweries in central Japan’s snow country When discussing beer in Japan, large companies like Asahi, Kirin, and Sapporo may come to mind. However, Japan also has a burgeoning and successful craft beer industry, focused on sourcing local ingredients and limited production. Craft beer is relatively […]
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Taste of Shinjuku: In Between Shining Lights and Bustling Sounds
The first sensation you may feel as soon as you get to Shinjuku station may simply be being overwhelmed. Commonly recognized as the busiest train station in the world, it is easy to get lost in between the insane amount of people passing through it, all […]
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The World of Mochi: Can you Name them All?
It’s chewy, soft, slightly sticky, and sometimes has sweet fillings. It also pairs deliciously with green tea (matcha included) and is considered one of Japan’s oldest, traditional desserts. Have you guessed it yet? You’re CORRECT! It’s Mochi (もち)! Considered a sub-group of Wagashi in Japan (confections), […]
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Golden Week: Make Some Time to Enjoy the Endless Possibilities this Spring!
As we approach the heart of the sakura season, another special period slowly creeps up. Anyone want to take a guess? Well if you’ve read the title of this blog you should already know, but it’s almost time for dun dun da da…Golden Week! If you’re […]
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Meguro: A Hidden Gem In Tokyo
Meguro is a beautiful district in southwestern Tokyo that has a lot to offer visitors. The special thing about this place is its good atmosphere, for example, you can wander endlessly through the various streets and along the Meguro River. Spring is considered the most beautiful […]
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Amazake: A Sweet, Healthy Drink for the Spring
One of the more popular ways to celebrate the start of the spring season in Japan is to try traditional foods and beverages, as with any festival season, But one Japanese drink you may not be overly familiar with is Amazake. So what is Amazake and why is it so delicious and popular?
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Castella: Japan’s Beloved Treat
You might expect a yellow cake to be banana or lemon-flavored, but surprisingly it might not be. It’s not sweet at all, but a very subtle taste of honey is hidden in a fluffy yellow sponge cake. It is very simple to make with minimal ingredients […]
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