Ben Pate
From around late March to early April, many of the streets, parks, and riversides of Japan will turn a pastel pink by theblooming “sakura” cherry blossoms.Japanese locals make the most of this by throwing “hanami” (flower-viewing) parties to fully relish the seasonal splendor while eati...
Unless you are a resident of Japan, when checking in to any accommodation, by law, they are required to make a copy of your passport. A useful tip, especially if you are traveling in groups, is to present the staff aphotocopy of your passportto speed up check-in. Tatami floored rooms ...
You can bring your physical IC card to a station attendant, who can return you ¥500 deposit and the remaining balance on your card. You can’t get your money back upon leaving Japan. Must-have apps in Japan Explore the essential mobile apps when traveling Japan that set you up to a...
Kyoto– Many peoples highlight of a trip to Japan is Kyoto. But unless your kids have an intense passion for temples it will pale in comparison to Tokyo’s museums, theme parks, and lively neighborhoods. That said, there’s plenty enough here (including a train museum and lively market) ...
Although Kyoto’s ancient streets are the most common place to rent a kimono, you can find rental shops throughout Japan. 10) Gaze at Itchiku Kubota’s Stunning Kimonos Wagashi set at the tea room of Itchiku Kubota Art Museum On a cloudy day at Kawaguchiko (when Mt Fuji did not emerge...
It's useful to have a lightweight stroller when traveling in Japan with babies and toddlers © Air Rabbit / Getty Images What makes Japan good for kids? Japan has fascinating festivals to witness (or even participate in!), great restaurants to dine at, interesting museums and temples, and...
Make Sure to Bring Cash When Travelling in Japan Looking for a travel journal and trip planner for your adventure? Check this out: The Best Time to Travel to Japan While it does depend on which cities you plan to visit, there are some preferred times of the year when travel planning for...
Being Japan’s kitchen, the talk around Osaka has religiously been about the bevy of delicious food you can find in the city from restaurants in the largest commercial buildings to hidden ones in the most nondescript alleyways. All that said, and I can’t believe I’m saying this, but ...
Some of Japan's most fantastic festivals also take place in this region, like the famous Yokote Kamakura Snow Festival held in Akita's Yokote City, when on February 15-16th each year, people make and gather inside dozens of small huts made out of snow to celebrate and pray for prosperity...