H&R Group Blog

Great Shrines for Hatsumode in Kumamoto

Dec 27, 2022 By Justin Hanus

The turn of the year is holiday time in Japan. People are off work to celebrate the New Year with...[ Click to read more ]

Unique and Unusual Attractions in Kumamoto

Dec 27, 2022 By Justin Hanus

Kumamoto is a beautiful prefecture on the island of Kyushu, probably most well-known for the breathtaking Mount Aso and the...[ Click to read more ]

Winter Food in Nagoya

Dec 27, 2022 By Bert Wishart

Unless you are a ski bunny or a masochist, there should be no doubt that winter is the worst of...[ Click to read more ]

Hatsumode in Tokyo – Making Your First Shrine Visit of 2023

Dec 26, 2022 By Michael Stigall

New Years in Japan is laser-focused on firsts. You have your first sunrise of the year, which is very important,...[ Click to read more ]

Winter Illumination in Tokyo

Dec 26, 2022 By Michael Stigall

Christmas time in Tokyo can be a bit surreal. On the one hand, there are Christmas markets, gigantic sales, innumerable...[ Click to read more ]

Ice Skating in Kanto

Dec 26, 2022 By Michael Stigall

For most of us from colder climates, it is hard to imagine winter without ice skating. Luckily, many in the...[ Click to read more ]

The JR Kyushu Trains with the Best Views

Dec 26, 2022 By Justin Hanus

All the Design & Story Trains of the JR Kyushu railway are designed to bring passengers unique experiences. However, a...[ Click to read more ]

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Hatsumode in Hiroshima – Shrines to Visit for New Years and the Tondo Festival

Dec 26, 2022 By Hugh Cann

There are two main traditions marking the beginning of the new year in Hiroshima. Hatsumōde is the first visit of...[ Click to read more ]

Hiroshima’s Wonderful Oyster Huts and Bars

Dec 25, 2022 By Bert Wishart

For those of us who are used to the creature comforts of central heating, double-paned windows, and insulated buildings, winter...[ Click to read more ]

Skiing in Hiroshima: Day and Weekend Trips!

Dec 25, 2022 By Matt Mangham

Hiroshima isn’t the first place that comes to mind when you think of skiing in Japan. We’re a long way...[ Click to read more ]