A Unique Japanese Festival to Welcome Good Luck When traveling in Japan during winter, you may hear people shouting “Oni wa soto! Fuku wa uchi!” and see soybeans being thrown around.This lively tradition is called Setsubun, a seasonal event deeply … Read More
A Timeless Stage of Prayer and Sunset in Nara When visiting Todai-ji Temple, most travelers focus on the famous Great Buddha Hall.Few continue deeper into the temple grounds. That is a mistake. Hidden on the eastern hillside of Todai-ji lies … Read More
A Guide to Basashi for International Travelers Horse meat is eaten in several countries, especially in parts of Europe and Central Asia, but Japan is quite unique in serving it raw as basashi. For many visitors, the idea of eating … Read More
Located just a short walk from the lively streets of Namba, Namba Yasaka Shrine is one of Osaka’s most unique and photogenic Shinto shrines. Its massive lion-head stage is unlike anything you’ll see elsewhere in Japan—and it’s said to swallow … Read More
If you love skiing or snowboarding, you’ve probably heard the word “Japow.”Japow is short for “Japan + Powder Snow”, and it refers to the incredibly light, dry, and deep snow found in Japan during winter. For snow lovers around the … Read More
Japan-Made, Japan-Set Stories Loved Around the World Netflix has become a powerful platform for Japanese drama series, bringing Japan-made, Japan-set stories to a global audience.From survival thrillers and crime dramas to anime adaptations and deeply emotional love stories, these series … Read More
Mojiko Retro is one of Kitakyushu’s most charming historical districts, preserving the atmosphere of a port town that flourished from the Meiji era to the early Showa period. With its red-brick buildings, Western-style architecture, and scenic waterfront views, Mojiko once … Read More
ASICS is a global sports brand from Japan, and GEL-KAYANO is one of its most iconic running shoes.If you’re visiting Japan, you may be wondering: “Should I buy ASICS here, or is it cheaper back home?” Below is a global … Read More
First, What Is Valentine’s Day Like in Japan? Valentine’s Day in Japan is a little different from many other countries.Traditionally, women give chocolate to men, but today the culture has expanded far beyond romance. You’ll find: In fact, Valentine’s season … Read More
World First! Ride Evangelion! Defend Kyoto! An Angel alert has been detected in Kyoto.To protect the ancient capital, NERV has established the “Third New Kyoto City Branch” and constructed the Evangelion Kyoto Base in Uzumasa. Now, NERV is recruiting new … Read More