Arigato Travel Weblog
A FRIENDLY GUIDE TO JAPAN’S WAGYU REGIONS
Wagyu has become shorthand for luxury beef across the world, but within Japan, this word carries a much deeper and more nuanced meaning. Wagyu simply translates to “Japanese cow,” yet behind lies a complex network of regional identities, bloodlines, feeding philosophies, and centuries-old traditions. Much like […]
Read More
Beyond the Golden Route: Experience the enduring spirits of Nagasaki and Okinawa
It’s always a thrill to see the world catch on to what we’ve known for years: Japan’s true magic often lies far beyond the bright lights of Tokyo and the temples of Kyoto. The New York Times recently released its prestigious “52 Places to Go” list […]
Read More
ONE-DAY PERFECT PLAN: ENJOYING HANAMI IN KYOTO
Important reminder: We know cherry blossoms are mesmerizing, but at Arigato Travel, we kindly ask that you please don’t pick the petals or shake the sakura branches to take photos. There are plenty of lovely ways to capture beautiful pictures without harming or disturbing the trees. […]
Read More
5 Must-Try Vegan Restaurants In Kyoto
Without a doubt, Kyoto is one of the most popular travel destinations in Japan. This city offers a compelling mix of culture and stunning landscapes, giving visitors a peek into the origins of many Japanese traditions. While it remains true to its ancient roots, Kyoto has […]
Read More
The Soundtracks of Japan: Exploring Catchy Jingles
When exploring Japan, it is nearly impossible to go more than a few blocks without hearing a brief yet catchy melody. Whether you’re browsing the aisles of a megastore or taking a stroll through the city streets, these unforgettable tunes are always playing, and they can […]
Read More
Best Michelin-Starred Restaurants to Try in Japan
Japan is famous for its ramen and street food, and even for some of the exclusive treats you can find at convenience stores, but that isn’t to say there aren’t restaurants for those of a more refined palate. Despite being a prestigious and difficult-to-obtain status, as […]
Read More
The History and Creation of the Kotatsu
If you have ever visited Japan in winter, you may have come across one of the coziest inventions of all time: the kotatsu (炬燵, heated table). This traditional piece of furniture is more than just a way to stay warm. It represents comfort, family bonding, and […]
Read More
Plum Blossoms & Patience: 28 February Affirmations for Quiet Growth
Quiet Winter, Early Blossoms February in Japan is deep winter—silver mornings, crisp air, and steam curling from cups of tea. Yet along garden paths and shrine courtyards, the first ume (梅), plum blossoms appear: small, fragrant stars that bloom in mid-to-late winter, symbols of beauty, hope, […]
Read More
A Day at Wakayama Farm: Harvests, Hammocks, and Hidden Groves
Wakayama Farm in Utsunomiya City is a place where bamboo and chestnuts aren’t just crops; they’re part of a living tradition. Spanning about 24 hectares with the Nikko mountain range as a backdrop, the farm has been tended by three generations of the Wakayama family and […]
Read More
Things to Do in Tokyo in February 2026
February in Tokyo is a quiet gem. The New Year crowds have faded, winter skies are crisp and clear, and the city settles into a calmer rhythm that rewards curious travelers. You will find seasonal traditions, early signs of spring, and fewer lines at major attractions. […]
Read More