Planning a trip to Japan between July and September? You might look at the weather forecast and think, “32°C (90°F)? That’s not too bad, I can handle that.” But once you step out of the airport, Japan’s summer hits you … Read More
When you travel around Japan, you will quickly notice how incredible Japanese convenience stores (konbini) are. Among all the delicious drinks available, there is one legendary frozen treat you absolutely cannot miss: FamilyMart’s Frappé. It’s fresh, custom-made by you, and … Read More
Summer in Japan is magical, but if you think it’s all about traditional festivals and fireworks, you’re missing out on one of the season’s hottest subcultures: The Beach Dating Scene. In Japan, summer brings a phenomenon known as Kaiho-teki (開放的)—a … Read More
Discover the “Temple of Flowers” in Uji, Kyoto If you are visiting Kyoto this June, there is one place that looks like a scene straight out of a fairy tale: Mimuroto-ji Temple (三室戸寺). Known affectionately as the “Temple of Flowers,” … Read More
July is the month when summer truly begins in Japan. While the first half often sees the end of the rainy season, the second half brings “Mousho” (extreme heat). With temperatures frequently rising above 30°C (86°F), choosing the right clothes … Read More
Welcome to Japan! While summer is a season of vibrant festivals and beautiful fireworks, it also brings a level of heat that catches many travelers off guard. If you think you’re prepared because you’ve experienced hot summers elsewhere, think again. … Read More
Planning a trip to Japan in mid-August? You’ll likely encounter one of the country’s most significant cultural periods: Obon. While it is a fascinating time to witness Japanese traditions, it is also one of the busiest and hottest times of … Read More
June marks the beginning of Tsuyu (the rainy season) for most of Japan. While you can expect frequent showers and high humidity, it’s also a beautiful time to see hydrangeas (Ajisai) and enjoy lush, misty landscapes at shrines and temples. … Read More
When you visit Japan, one treat you’ll see almost everywhere is soft serve ice cream (ソフトクリーム, sofuto kurīmu). While soft serve originally came from the United States in the 1930s, it was first introduced to Japan in 1951 at a … Read More
Hidden deep within the lush valleys of Tokushima Prefecture, Iya Kazurabashi is one of Japan’s most thrilling and iconic bridges. Suspended above a steep mountain gorge and made entirely of vines, this historic bridge offers visitors a rare chance to … Read More