Arigato Travel Weblog
Meet Norma: Artist, Foodie, and Our Friendly Guide and HR Director
Today, we’re delighted to introduce you to Norma, a warm-hearted guide and Training & HR Director on our Tokyo team. Originally from Mexico, Norma came to Japan to pursue her passion for Ukiyo-e woodblock printing, an art form that captured her imagination and creativity. Beyond her […]
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Showa Retro Neighborhoods in Tokyo You Can Still Visit Today
The Showa era was the time period when Japan was ruled by Emperor Showa, from the years 1926 to 1989. During this era, there was a large cultural, political, and economic shift following the end of World War II, leading to demilitarization and emphasis on peace […]
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What Makes Hiroshima Sake So Special?
Saijo, Hiroshima Prefecture, is renowned as one of Japan’s premier sake-producing regions. However, this wasn’t always the case; historically, Saijo’s soft and gentle water was deemed unsuitable for brewing. Sake (Nihonshu) is produced across Japan, from the frigid north of Hokkaido to the tropical south of […]
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THE BEAUTY OF RICE PLANTING FESTIVALS IN JAPAN
If you visit Japan in late spring or early summer, you might be lucky enough to witness one of the country’s most graceful and meaningful traditions, the Rice Planting Festivals, known in Japanese as “Otaue Matsuri” or “Taue-sai.” These festivals aren’t just about farming; they are […]
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Introducing Erika, Our Finance & Payroll Manager
We love sharing the stories of the people who make Arigato Travel and Japan truly special, and today we’re introducing you to our incredible Finance & Payroll Manager, Erika! Hailing from Manila, Philippines, Erika holds a degree in Business Economics, but her passion extends far beyond […]
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WHERE TO TRAVEL IN JAPAN THAT IS NOT TOKYO, KYOTO OR OSAKA
Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka are amazing, no question about that. They’re vibrant, iconic, and packed with everything people imagine when they think of Japan, from neon-lit streets to historic temples and incredible food. But here’s the thing: Japan has so much more to offer beyond these […]
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LGBTQ+ EVENTS IN JAPAN 2026
There’s something magical about LGBTQ+ events: the colors, the joy, the sense of belonging that turns any street, club, or quiet corner into a celebration of identity and love. Now, you’ve probably heard that June is Pride Month in many parts of the world, and that’s […]
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Brewed in Tokyo: An Interview with the Creator behind Shelby’s Café Diary
Let us introduce you to Shelby Shikashio, the passionate creator behind Shelby’s Café Diary. Having spent four years soaking up Tokyo’s vibrant energy and dedicating countless hours to exploring its unique coffee shops, bakeries, and stylish corners, Shelby has become a knowledgeable friend for those seeking […]
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Aoi Matsuri: Kyoto’s Elegant Festival of Ancient Traditions
Every spring, the city of Kyoto transforms into a living portrait of its imperial past. Among its many seasonal celebrations, few capture the refined beauty of classical Japan as vividly as Aoi Matsuri (葵祭, Hollyhock Festival). With its stately processions, historical costumes, and deep-rooted rituals, this […]
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Exploring Japan’s Local Vegetable Basics: Gobo, Daikon, Mizuna, and More!
Japan’s culinary tradition is deeply rooted in the use of fresh, seasonal ingredients. Among these, local vegetables –referred to as yasai– hold a special place. From earthy root vegetables to crisp leafy greens, each has its unique flavor, texture, and cultural significance. Today, we’ll delve into […]
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