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
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
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
Every winter, the UNESCO World Heritage village of Shirakawa-go in Gifu becomes a dreamlike wonderland. During the special Winter Light-up, the traditional gassho-style houses are illuminated against the snow, creating one of the most breathtaking winter sceneries in Japan. For … Read More
One of the most popular activities from winter to spring in Japan is “strawberry picking (Ichigo Gari, いちご狩り).” Picking and eating fresh, sweet strawberries is a fun experience, especially for tourists. This guide provides first-time visitors with essential information on … Read More
The Chichibu region of Saitama Prefecture in Japan is home to a trio of magnificent natural ice formations collectively known as the Chichibu Three Great Icicles. These incredible sites, each unique in its beauty, attract thousands of visitors during the … Read More
Overview of Shirakawa-go Shirakawa-go is a picturesque village located in the mountainous region of northern Gifu Prefecture. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1995, it is renowned for its traditional Gassho-zukuri farmhouses. These steeply pitched thatched roofs are … Read More
What is Kagami Mochi (鏡餅)? During the New Year season, you may have seen this unique decoration in Japanese stores and restaurants. Kagami Mochi (literally “mirror rice cake”) is a traditional Japanese New Year decoration deeply rooted in Shinto practices … Read More
New Year’s visit to a shrine, known as “Hatsumode (初詣)”, is a time-honored tradition deeply rooted in Japanese culture. Have you ever wondered about the meaning and origins behind this practice? Meaning of Hatsumode: Hatsumode refers to the tradition of … Read More
Niigata Prefecture’s Joetsu City (上越市), renowned for its heavy snowfall, is a snowy wonderland. In the historically rich castle town of Takada, snow falls gently, covering the surroundings in a pristine white layer. Takada Park (高田公園) is a meticulously landscaped … Read More