Arigato Travel Weblog
Interview with Abby Denson, comic book artist and author
Meet Abby, comic book artist and author of Cool Japan Guide and Cool Tokyo Guide ! We’ve met up with her to discuss her new book Uniquely Japan, where she uses her own drawings and photos to demonstrate the charming and distinct features that makes Japan […]
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Natto: Your magic potion for everything
Have you ever heard of or tried Natto? This traditional Japanese food is made from fermented soybeans. It has a strong, pungent smell and a slimy texture that can be off-putting to some people, but it is considered a delicacy by many Japanese people. There are […]
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What’s Happening in Tokyo: things to do in February 2023
February is the month with some of the coldest and driest weather. Despite that, in the traditional Japanese calendar, February marks the beginning of spring! Although skiing is a great activity to do, other events happening in Tokyo this month will make you enjoy the crisp […]
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MATSUZAKAYA HONTEN HAKONE: A HOT SPRING FOR THE NOBILITY
Famous for its natural beauty, healing hot springs, and a magnificent view of Mt. Fuji across Lake Ashinoko is Hakone, a hotspot for Japanese and international tourists who are looking to get some R&R. Located just an hour away from Tokyo, it is in Hakone that […]
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Hanami – Places to Go Nearby Tokyo and Kyoto
As soon as the winter holiday time in December and January comes to an end, people across Japan and those who are in-the-know overseas start planning their travels to visit the best spots to see this gorgeous phenomenon. Cherry blossom viewing is one of the most […]
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What is Setsubun? Mamemaki? A traditional Bean-Throwing Festival in Japan
Visiting Japan in February? We highly recommend you plan your trip in time with Setsubun. This festive holiday packs together tons of Japanese traditions that are still alive today. Let’s discover together what Setsubun is, and what to expect and learn from this event. What […]
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5 Things to Eat in Okayama!
Okayama, located between Hiroshima and Hyogo, might have a tendency to be forgotten due to being surrounded by other, more famous areas of Japan. As it is a bit more rural, many overlook the prefecture’s potential as a stop on their trip through Japan. Okayama is […]
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Differences Between Japan’s Major Metropolitan Areas: Kanto and Kansai
When traveling between Tokyo (in Kanto) and Osaka (in Kansai), Japan’s two largest cities, and their respective surrounding areas, you might notice a 180 degrees difference in the lifestyle. Japan’s Kanto and Kansai regions couldn’t be more different from one another, from the food to the […]
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Okonomiyaki: Delicious Japanese food from the past to the present day
What is Okonomiyaki? Japan is well known for its rich culture, and especially for its japanese cuisine, and not only sushi has its place in the rising sun, but also the famous Okonomiyaki. Have you ever heard of Okonomiyaki? Okonomiyaki is a Japanese fried pancake with […]
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Taste of Ikebukuro: A Family Favorite in the Middle of Tokyo
Ikebukuro is one of the more well-known areas of Tokyo. The Ikebukuro station connects JR, Seibu Railway, Tobu Railway, and Tokyo Metro Lines, making it one of the most frequented stations in Tokyo. If you find yourself around the Ikebukuro area but not sure what to […]
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