Vineyard Voyages: Grape-Harvesting and Wine-Tasting in Japan
Japan may not be the first place that comes to mind when thinking about wine, but it boasts a burgeoning wine industry with a distinct culture of grape-harvesting (vendanges) and wine-tasting. Explore the fascinating world of Japanese viticulture, highlighting the grape-harvesting season, notable wine regions, and the cultural nuances that make wine-tasting in Japan a unique experience.
Confections of a Cake-holic: Desserts Aplenty in Otaru, a Pastry Paradise
Discover tasty treats in Otaru, a paradise for cake connoisseurs and pastry pundits!
Teishoku Time: Five Kinds of Japanese Set Meals!
Let’s take a deep dive into the concept of Teishoku, or Japanese set meals, and take a look at five popular kinds found throughout the country!
Day Trips from Tokyo: Exploring Temples and Local Cuisine of Monzen Nakacho
More ideas for day trip in Tokyo? Check out Monzen Nakacho! The perfect hidden gem for delicious local cuisine and hidden temples.
Day Trips from Tokyo: Discovering Chofu’s Temples and the World of Kitaro
Want a new place to check out in Tokyo? Consider Chofu! Know as the hometown of famous manga writer Shigeru Mizuki, it is also home to Jindaiji, one of Tokyo’s oldest Buddhist temples
Down Memory Lane: Diary of a Packaging Collector’s Travels Across Japan
Do you like collecting items from Japan? They include station stamps, train tickets, and even milk cartons, and each bring an invaluable sentimental value for the collector while travelling around Japan.
Hokuriku Shinkansen Extension: All 4 of Fukui’s Shinkansen Stops in a Day
In the final stretch of this series on things to do around the new Hokuriku Shinkansen stations, we head to Fukui Prefecture and check out the four stations of Awara Onsen, Fukui, Echizen-Takefu, and Tsuruga.
Before we go, what is Isego?
On 9 May 2024, JAPAN RAIL CAFE Singapore welcomed Isego Honten on board as a new long-term collaborative partner, with a newly-refreshed permanent retail section focusing on Japanese sake and a bevy of sake-centric events and promotions lined up through the year. But who, or what exactly is Isego Honten, and why should we be excited about their first ever foray into the Singapore market?
Confections of a Cake-holic: Desserts in Hokkaido’s “Sweets Kingdom” Obihiro
Hokkaido beckons with exquisite confectionery creations, so let’s check out the tasty pastries in Obihiro, Hokkaido’s Sweets Kingdom!
Hokuriku Shinkansen Extension: A Foodie’s Guide around Kagaonsen Station
Here’s a foodie and shoppaholic’s guide to all things delicious and souvenir-friendly around Kagaonsen Station in Ishikawa Prefecture!
Sake 101: 6 Types of Sake and Ways to Indulge in the Goodness of Sake
Embark on a journey of discovery, enrichment, and sensory delight through the world of Japanese sake, and celebrate the timeless allure of this beloved beverage. Kanpai!
Hello Hokuriku: Hop on the Hanayome Noren Sightseeing Train
Hop aboard the Hanayome Noren, one of Hokuriku’s most beloved sightseeing trains, which runs between Kanazawa Station and Wakura-Onsen Station in the Noto Peninsula.
Hokuriku Shinkansen Extension: 3 Things to Do around Komatsu Station
Equip yourself with the 7-day Hokuriku Arch Pass and embark on a Hokuriku Holiday! With six newly-opened shinkansen stations between Kanazawa Station to Tsuruga Station, unlock more hidden gems by exploring the vicinity of each station. This article will introduce must-visit spots around Komatsu Station in Ishikawa.
Shikoku Rail Tales #3: Iyonada Monogatari and Discovering Special Stations
In Part 3 of this series, we take a ride on the Iyonada Monogatari sightseeing train and explore unique stations along the ride!
Beyond Blossoms: 5 Must-Do Spring Activities in Japan
As winter’s chill gives way to the gentle embrace of spring, Japan bursts into a kaleidoscope of colour and activity.
Hello Hokuriku: Holiday around the Hokuriku Shinkansen Extension’s 6 New Stops
With the opening of the Hokuriku Shinkansen extension, travel to Ishikawa and Fukui is even more convenient! Check out the 6 new stations and what to see, do, and eat around them!
Seafood 101: 10 Types of Japanese Sashimi & Sushi Toppings
To prepare you for your next seafood adventure in Japan, in this article we will introduce 10 must-try raw seafood, which are delicious not just in sashimi, but as rice bowl and sushi toppings as well!
Shikoku Rail Tales #2: Shikoku Tosa Toki No Yoake No Monogatari & Exploring Kochi
In Part 2 of this series, we explore Kochi and take a ride on the Toki No Yoake No Monogatari sightseeing train!
Day Trips from Sendai: Oysters, Sea Breeze, and Serenity in Matsushima
Include Matsushima in your next itinerary to Japan! With its main sightseeing area easily accessible via a short walk from the station, it was easy to discover many of Matsushima’s treasures and delicious gourmet.
Freshness Explosion! The Best Places to get Japanese Seafood Ocean-to-table
If you’re keen on making the jump from sushi fan to aficionado, and want to travel the land in search of Japanese seafood so fresh it might as well have leaped from the ocean right onto your plate—then this article is for you!
Day Trips from Tokyo: Exploring Shibamata, Home to the Iconic Tora-San
Want to include a serene day trip in Tokyo? Check out the cultural Shibamata, home to the iconic Tora-san!
Shikoku Rail Tales #1: Shikoku Mannaka Sennen Monogatari & Exploring Oboke Gorge
In Part 1 of this series, we take a ride on the Sennen Monogatari sightseeing train and explore Tokushima’s Oboke Gorge and Iya Valley!
Kanpai Kawasaki! Exploring Craft Beer and Night Travel
Discover the charms of Kawasaki City with 3 keywords: Kawasaki-shuku, Tokaido GLASS, and Factory Night View Cruise.
See Shimoda, Izu by Rail: Hot Springs, Seasonal Blooms & More (Part 2)
A trip from Tokyo to Izu’s city of Shimoda might be just the right distance for railway lovers, be it aboard the regular JR Odoriko Limited Express train or the stylishly luxurious SAPHIR ODORIKO, with the two and a half hour journey providing just enough time to enjoy the scenic views of Japan’s countryside, and maybe a bite to eat.
5 Ways to Enjoy Winter Trips from Tokyo with a JR EAST PASS
Winter is a beautiful time to visit Eastern Japan! Here are 4 ways to enjoy winter trips from Tokyo with the JR EAST PASS!
Maker’s Story: Citrusy Sweet Arida Mikan from Sowa Kajuen
To herald the arrival of winter, JAPAN RAIL CLUB featured not just one but two products by maker Sowa Kajuen, a producer specialising in the production of Arida mikan products, including juices and jellies.
Incredible Ibaraki #2: Anime Tourism In Oarai Via Mito And Enjoy A Local Festival!
Nestled in the heart of Ibaraki Prefecture, Mito is a city that boasts a rich cultural heritage and natural beauty that will captivate any traveller. With its stunning parks, historic sites, and vibrant local culture, Mito is a must-visit destination for those looking to explore the hidden gems of Japan. If you are also a […]
Sear-iously Delicious: Aburi Hotate Don
The monthly menu of JAPAN RAIL CAFE in November 2023 is the Aburi Hotate Don! Let’s learn a bit more about delicious hotate from Japan.
Authentic Akita: My Unforgettable Farm Stay at Sakekoshimai
Want a new way to experience the lcoal cultures of Akita Prefecture? Check out my experience at a farm stay in Odate City.
Maker’s Story: Rabbit Motif Snacks from Hamausagi in Yokohama
Have you heard of Otsukimi (お月見)? A variation to the popular Mid-Autumn Festival, Otsukimi is a Japanese tradition celebrated during the full harvest moon in autumn in September.
What Your Favorite Japanese Summer Festival Food Says About You
During the hot months of July and August, summer festivals (夏祭り natsu matsuri) are held all around Japan where celebrations take shape in the form of mesmerising dances (Awa Odori, Hanagasa Festival), impressive decorations (Nebuta Festival, Tanabata Festival), and spectacular fireworks (Sumida River Fireworks Festival, Nagaoka Fireworks Festival).
Fruit-Tastic Japan: 8 of Japan’s Bountiful & Juicy Treasures
Prepare to be delighted as we embark on a juicy adventure through the world of Japanese fruits! From the succulent peaches to the luxurious cantaloupes, these fruits are a feast for the senses.
8 Reasons Why People Are Buying Japanese Snacks
Despite being one of the last few countries to open up its borders to international travellers during the COVID-19 pandemic, Japan has been able to maintain its popularity as a top travel destination amongst Singaporeans and its neighbours in Southeast Asia. And with many of us visiting Japan in the recent months of 2023, one might take notice of the wide array of Japanese snacks that are usually bought back as souvenirs.
Summer’s Ultimate Delight: Hiyashi Chuka, Cold Noodle Bliss!
Did you know that Japan has a quintessential must-try summer dish? It’s the Hiyashi Chuka, the perfect choice for beating the summer heat while indulging in a delicious and satisfying meal.
JR News: “Thank You, FruiTea Fukushima!” Project to Run until December 2023
Note: FruiTea Fukushima permanently ceased operations from December 2023. Last year, JR East announced that it was time to bid adieu to everyone’s favourite cafe-themed sightseeing train: FruiTea Fukushima (フルーティアふくしま). After eight and a half years since its debut in April 2015 running along the Ban-etsu West Line, the popular Joyful Train will retire in […]
Awesome Aomori: Special Announcements From Tohoku’s Northernmost Prefecture!
Find out what you can travel to in Aomori on the Konan Railways Konan Line as well as information on how you can get there to start your exploration of the northernmost prefecture on Honshu Island in Japan
Fun Fukushima Train Trips: Geisha, Onsen & Samurai at Aizu Wakamatsu
With the Tadami Line back open since fall 2022, Aizu Wakamatsu is calling! And whether you’re planning to catch the views from this famous train line or not, you’ll definitely want to see more of the Aizu region’s samurai warriors, hot springs, and geisha!
Fun Fukushima Train Trips: From JR Fukushima Station along the Tohoku Main Line
Set off from JR Fukushima Station to find food, sake, scenery, and friendly faces of rural Japan along the Tohoku Main Line, with recommendations from the Station Master, train staff, and drivers.
Food Fun-Ventures in Eastern Japan: Part 3
Last autumn, I was given the opportunity to embark on a whirlwind tour of the Tohoku Region (東北地方) and feast on its many delicacies along the way. Join me as I recount the many meals I had along the way as I travelled together with my colleague Carissa to nearly every prefecture to see what makes the food of Eastern Japan so much fun!
Rail Report: Feasting in the TOHOKU EMOTION, JR East’s Flagship Restaurant Train
The TOHOKU EMOTION is JR East’s flagship restaurant train, serving decadent meals with five-star hospitality. Hop aboard and find out what it’s like to dine on this train!
Nagano Side Trips: 3 Chestnut Foods to Feast on at Obuse
Ride a local railway line from Nagano and take a side trip to Obuse, a town famous for its chestnuts. Find out more about 3 delicious, must-try chestnut foods!
A Culinary Seafood Adventure in Nakaminato Fish Market
Taste Ibaraki’s freshest seafood like oysters and monkfish at Nakaminato Fish Market in Hitachinaka City. Any fresher, you’d have to catch it yourself!”
Follow Me to Mito and Oarai: A Daytrip to Ibaraki
Follow me on a day trip to Ibaraki Prefecture, as I attempt to see why it’s known as Japan’s so-called “Least Attractive Prefecture”, with the help of the 3-day JR TOKYO Wide Pass.
6 Spots & Sightseeing Trains to Enjoy in Niigata Prefecture
Check out 3 sightseeing trains and 3 spots that are perfect for your enjoyment of a train journey in Niigata!
JR East Launches JAPAN RAIL CLUB for the Avid Japan Traveller
East Japan Railway Company (JR East) has launched a new membership service called JAPAN RAIL CLUB. In a bid to revitalise inbound tourism, this community-based membership service aims to connect fans with the locals in Japan while discovering various regional attractions.
A “walk”-through to exploring Niigata on foot
Welcome to Niigata, the capital city of Niigata that is a wonder to explore on foot! Take a walk from Niigata Station to the Bandai Bridge, Toki Messe, Furumachi district, and Hakusan Shrine, all in one day trip.
4 Spots for Food and Experiences in Niigata Prefecture
One of Japan’s top treasure troves of gastronomical delights, Niigata is full of delicacies and spots where you can try hand-on activities. Let’s check out 4 of them!
Food Fun-Ventures in Eastern Japan: Part 2
Visiting Gunma or Nagano Prefecture? Here are some must-try food to add to your itinerary!
Rail Report: Tasty Treats & 3 Fun Day Trips with the FruiTea Fukushima
Take a ride on the FruiTea Fukushima sightseeing train and discover 3 day trip options around Aizu-Wakamatsu you can enjoy!
Apple of My Eye: Aomori’s Amazing Apple Treats
Did you know that Aomori Prefecture produces close to 60% of the country’s apples? Here are my top recommendations for apple desserts, snacks, and drinks for your next visit to Aomori!