From July 18 to September 15, 2025, Chiikawa Bakery on the 3rd floor of Tokyu Plaza Omotesando “Omokado” If you love Chiikawa, one of Japan’s most popular character series, there is now another place to add to your Osaka itinerary: … Read More
December marks the official arrival of winter in Japan. Cities across the country light up with spectacular Christmas illuminations, and crisp, clear winter days are common in central regions. While daytime temperatures are manageable with proper outerwear, mornings and evenings … Read More
WhThe iconic Lawson Kawaguchiko Station Branch—where Mount Fuji appears to sit directly atop the store’s blue sign—became a viral sensation worldwide. However, overtourism led to safety concerns, jaywalking, and littering, prompting local authorities to temporarily install a large black screen … Read More
Pokemon Center Mega Tokyo, one of Japan’s largest official Pokemon stores located in Ikebukuro, Tokyo, has reopened. This comprehensive guide covers exact location details, how to get there, tax-free procedures, and exclusive experiences for international visitors. Where is Pokemon Center … Read More
1. Is the Poké Ball Hotel Real? Yes, it is 100% real! In September 2026, The Pokémon Company officially partnered with luxury hospitality and architectural brand NOT A HOTEL to build a real-life, fully functioning Poké Ball-shaped hotel nestled in … Read More
Every winter, the UNESCO World Heritage village of Shirakawa-go in Gifu becomes a dreamlike wonderland. Are you planning your trip to Central Japan and wondering how to fit Takayama’s traditional old town and Shirakawa-go’s iconic Gassho-zukuri farmhouses into your schedule? … Read More
What Cannot Be Brought into Japan? Forbidden & Restricted Items Guide (2026 Updated) When traveling to Japan, one of the most critical steps before packing your luggage is checking the country’s strict customs, animal quarantine, and plant protection regulations. Many … Read More
Fukuoka’s vibrant district of Tenjin—the undisputed heart of nightlife and shopping in Kyushu—transforms into a massive, colorful costume runway every October 31st. For international visitors, expat communities, and tourists seeking an unforgettable Halloween in Japan, standard travel guides often miss … Read More
If you are walking in parks, gardens, or along riverbanks in Japan, you may notice large, clean-looking white mushrooms popping up in grassy areas. These are False Parasol mushrooms (Chlorophyllum molybdites / Japanese: オオシロカラカサタケ, Ooshirokarakasatake). They are highly toxic. Quick … Read More
Located in Nagano Prefecture at the foot of the Japanese Alps, Matsumoto is famous for its majestic 16th-century national treasure, Matsumoto Castle. Beyond its rich samurai history, Matsumoto boasts a vibrant culinary culture powered by crystal-clear alpine spring water and … Read More