Kobe Luminarie 2026: A Festival of Light, Remembrance, and Hope
Kobe Luminarie is one of Japan’s most meaningful winter illumination events.It is not only famous for its breathtaking beauty, but also for the powerful message behind it — remembrance, recovery, and hope. Held every winter in Kobe, this light festival … Read More
Yokohama Christmas Markets 2025: Best Winter Events in Minatomirai
Yokohama transforms into a magical winter destination during the Christmas season. From classic European-style markets to brand-new festive experiences, the city offers unforgettable holiday vibes just 30 minutes from central Tokyo. Here are two Christmas markets you should not miss … Read More
The Ultimate Guide to Japan’s Capsule Hotels
What Makes Capsule Hotels So Unique? A Touch of Japan’s Sci-Fi Future. One of the biggest surprises for first-time visitors is how futuristic capsule hotels feel.When you slide into your pod—with soft lighting, built-in controls, and a cozy enclosed space—you … Read More
Where Have They Gone? The New Reality of Street Solicitation Near Ōkubo Park, Shinjuku
What You Need to Know Before Visiting the Area Ōkubo Park, located next to Kabukicho in Shinjuku, has long been known as an area where street solicitation occurs at night.However, recent police crackdowns have significantly reduced the number of women … Read More
Best Hatsumode Spots in Tokyo for the New Year
Visiting a shrine or temple at the beginning of the year—called Hatsumode—is one of Japan’s most important New Year traditions. Many people visit between January 1–3 to pray for good luck, health, and prosperity for the coming year. In Tokyo, … Read More
Best Autumn Leaves Spots in Nara: A Dreamlike Day Trip from Osaka or Kyoto
When autumn arrives, Nara transforms into a wonderland of vivid red and golden leaves. The ancient temples, serene gardens, and freely roaming deer make this old capital one of Japan’s most enchanting destinations in the fall. Nara is also very … Read More
Cash or Card in Japan: A Complete Guide for Visitors
Japan is known for its safety, efficiency, and cutting-edge technology — yet many visitors are surprised to learn that cash is still widely used. While Japan has been moving toward a cashless society, there are still times when you’ll want … Read More
Japan’s Most Popular Potato Chips: From Calbee to Koikeya Favorites
Japan is a snack lover’s paradise — and potato chips are at the heart of it.From light and crispy classics to thick-cut gourmet chips, Japanese brands keep reinventing the snack game. Whether you’re grabbing a quick bite at a 7-Eleven, … Read More
Aizu Sazae-dō – The Only Wooden Double-Helix Structure in the World
A Unique Temple Unlike Any Other in Japan Hidden in the historic city of Aizuwakamatsu in Fukushima Prefecture, Aizu Sazae-dō (会津さざえ堂) is one of Japan’s most fascinating architectural wonders. Officially called Entsū Sansō-dō (円通三匝堂), this wooden pagoda was built in … Read More
Is There a New Year’s Countdown in Shibuya?
Why Tokyo’s Most Famous Crossing Turns Silent on New Year’s Eve Many travelers visiting Japan during the New Year season imagine a lively countdown party in Tokyo — especially at the world-famous Shibuya Scramble Crossing. However, unlike major cities such … Read More










