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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Bread may not be the first food people associate with Japan, yet it has become an essential part of daily life. From neighborhood bakeries to convenience stores and seasonal festivals, bread in Japan reflects the country’s ability to adapt outside influences into something distinctly its own. […]
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Every country has its signature drink: vodka in Russia, tequila in Mexico, and wine in France. For Japan, the first word that probably comes to mind is sake. But actually, the correct word is nihonshu (日本酒), which literally means “Japanese alcohol”. Here’s a fun twist: in […]
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After nearly four years of renovation, the Edo-Tokyo Museum finally reopened on March 31, 2026, bringing one of Tokyo’s most beloved cultural attractions back to life with redesigned exhibitions, interactive features, and expanded storytelling experiences. Located in Ryogoku (you might know it if you’re into sumo!), […]
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After opening its borders to foreign trade in 1853, Japan welcomed many international guests. Initially, the country hosted banquets featuring honzen ryori, traditional Japanese cuisine, to demonstrate the highest level of respect and hospitality. However, these meals were not well-received by Western visitors due to their […]
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What kind of superstitions exist in your country? Recently, I was whistling in my room during the day, and my Lithuanian partner told me, “Whistling indoors can summon devils or attract ghosts.” Being Japanese, I found this interesting because Japan also has superstitions about whistling, but […]
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Kanda is the oldest student town in Japan, and I loved it because this place always reminds me that it is not too late to start anything I would like to experience. This is especially true regarding art and music, with various art and instrument shops […]
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Nestled between the districts of Namba and Osaka Castle, the charming area of Karahori (“空堀”) might be the most underrated neighborhood in Osaka. Translating to an “empty moat,” Karahori once served as a protective barrier for the ancient Osaka Castle. Though the moat may have filled […]
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Having been Japan’s capital for over 1000 years, Kyoto has a rich, complex, and vibrant cultural tradition. The city is known for its imperial palace, countless temples and shrines, and its three important annual festivals, or matsuri, that celebrate the history of this timeless metropolis. Today […]
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In Japan, there’s a cherished tradition taking place every November when temples and shrines fill with brightly dressed children, proud parents, and an air of festivity. This celebration is Shichi-Go-San — a longstanding Japanese tradition that honors children who have reached the special ages of 3, […]
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