Arigato Travel Weblog
Solo Female Travelers Share Why Japan Should Be on Your List Too
Japan, a land of traditions, innovation, and modern culture. It has long captivated the hearts of travelers worldwide. Though for solo female adventurers, the thought of navigating a new culture, language, and transportation system alone can feel a little daunting. But what if we told you […]
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Interview with Daniel Patterson: An LGBTQ+ Ikebana Artist’s Journey in Japan
From a childhood surrounded by gardens in Canada to a life rooted in the art of ikebana in Japan, Daniel Patterson’s story is one of inspiration. Owner of Star River Ikebana Studio, Daniel is not only a dedicated Sogetsu-style ikebana teacher and artist but also a […]
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TASTE OF AZABU-JŪBAN: THE MIXING POT OF PAST AND PRESENT
Azabu-Jūban is an area in the Minato ward of Tokyo, and dates back to the Edo period as a critical location for trade. The rich history is still visible in some aspects, such as the cobblestone roads and the temples, but since then it has gained […]
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AO ONIGIRI: WRAPPED IN CREATIVITY INTERVIEW WITH TOSHIIRO AOMATSU
As millions of visitors to Japan already know, Kyoto is a city not to be missed, offering countless opportunities to experience historic temples, shrines, art, and time-honored culture. In addition to the incredible traditions that still thrive in Kyoto, a contemporary food and art scene is […]
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How to Enjoy Baseball in Japan
In Japan, baseball is not just a sport; it is part of the culture. You can cheer for your favourite team and share good feelings with others, or just watch the game itself. And you don’t even need to be a die-hard fan to truly enjoy […]
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An Interview with Obico: Where Tradition Meets Sustainability
Obico is a Japanese upcycling brand run by Geisha & Co., based in Sendai, Miyagi. Their mission is to breathe new life into vintage kimonos and obi fabrics while promoting Japanese culture and sustainability. We first discovered them through their standout piece, The Kimono Body Bag, […]
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First Time in Osaka? Here Are Things You Need to Know.
Osaka is Japan’s lively second city, a dynamic contrast to Tokyo with its laid-back charm, delicious street food, and vibrant urban energy. I have talked with many visitors to Japan, and they all say Osaka is kind of chaotic, but in a good and charming way. […]
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TASTE OF YANAKA: THE OLD-FASHIONED CAT TOWN
At first glance, Yanaka’s charm is definitely the historical appearance of the buildings, with a shopping district that offers a little bit of everything. Looking closer, you may notice the popularity of a certain animal, with cat statues being stationed around the streets, cat-themed goods, cat-themed […]
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Tips & Takeaways from the Osaka Expo 2025
If you’ve seen all the tweets and videos about how “the Osaka Expo is overcrowded and chaotic,” you’re not alone. I saw them too. But after actually going, the experience genuinely surprised me, in ways most people don’t seem to mention online. It’s actually completely organized […]
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Mugicha: The Perfect Summer Drink
If you chat with a friend from Japan, their fondest memories of summer holidays likely include drinking their mother’s home-brewed mugicha (麦茶) between play sessions at the local park. During the sweltering Japanese summer months, schoolchildren sipping this chilled barley tea from stylish PET bottles are […]
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