Maker’s Story: Setouchi Citrus and Seafood Snacks by MARUKA FOODS
Summer is upon us in Japan, and there’s no better way to welcome the heat than with citrusy and addictive seafood snacks by MARUKA FOODS (まるか食品 Maruka Shokuhin). Originating from the Setouchi Area (瀬戸内), famed for its abundant citrus fruits and fresh seafood, their crispy treats combine the zesty tang of Setouchi citrus with the savory taste […]
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.
Slow Travels in Japan: Visiting the Land of Gods on the JR San’in Line
Have you travelled on the San’in Line before? The route traverses parts of Kansai and Chugoku, and offers passengers the experience of “slow travelling” to appreciate time away from the bustling city life.
Forest Bathing at Mount Daisen, One of Western Japan’s Holiest Mountains
Come and explore the city of Yonago in Tottori Prefecture! The city is a haven for hiking enthusiasts and nature lovers who enjoys a respite from city life.
Nihon Sankei (日本三景): The Three Scenic Views of Japan
Japan is an island nation that has always been known for its stunningly beautiful landscapes but even amongst these, there are three locations that rise above the others and are designated as the most scenic spots of the nation: Matsushima (松島) in Miyagi Prefecture (宮城県), Amanohashidate (天橋立) in Kyoto Prefecture (京都府), and Miyajima (宮島) in Hiroshima Prefecture (広島県). […]
Spring Beginnings: 7 Things to Do in Japan in April and May
A symbol of new beginnings and hope, spring is a season in Japan eagerly anticipated by residents and visitors alike. From its arrival in March to the comfortable weather of April and May, spring brings with it a plethora of activities and festivals to celebrate this fresh start. As cities and towns across the country […]
Happy Castle Day! (6 April): 10 Must-Visit Castles in Japan
Japan, a nation celebrated for its rich history and enduring cultural heritage, is particularly famous for its magnificent Japanese castles (お城 oshiro). These majestic structures―fortified fortresses made of stone and wood―are more than mere relics of the past, and stand as living testimonies to the country’s feudal era, samurai warriors, and extraordinary architectural ingenuity. Hence, it’s […]
Beyond Blossoms: 9 Spring Festivals in Japan to Leap into This 2024
If you’re planning to visit Japan in spring time between March, April, and May, here are nine spring festivals to check out in every region!
Happy Cat Day (22 February): 5 Cat Islands in Japan to Meet Feline Friends
In honour of Cat Day (Neko no Hi) in Japan every February 22, in this article we’ll introduce five cat islands in Japan that you can visit to meet feline friends. On these islands, you can see cats leisurely lying on the beaches and roadsides, taking daytime naps, and running across the little alleys!
The Wonders of Citrus: 5 Varieties of Citruses Found in Japan
If you have been to Japan during the colder months between December to February, you will notice the sudden abundance in citruses such as yuzu (柚子・ゆず) and mikan (蜜柑・みかん mandarin oranges). There are several reasons why these citrus fruits are associated with winter in Japan apart from their seasonal availability—the tanginess helps to invigorate the senses our bodies need […]
JR News: Price Revision of JR East Rail Passes for Foreign Visitors (2023)
With effect from 1 October 2023, JR East will revise the prices of various rail passes for foreign visitors to Japan in accordance with the increasing inbound travel needs.
Shinkansense 101: Updates to the luggage rules onboard Japan’s bullet trains (May 2023)
Riding the shinkansen between Japan’s major cities like Tokyo, Osaka, and Fukuoka with luggages? There’s a new luggage reservation service in town.