The Vend of The World – Explore Nagoya’s Eclectic Vending Machines

Jun 30, 2022 By Bert Wishart

Is there a more convenient country in the world than Japan? The trains run so fast they’re named after bullets, package redelivery can be arranged anytime, and there is an (appropriately named) convenience store on seemingly every corner. But most obviously, the sheer ubiquity of the vending machine makes this...[ Click to read more ]

Nagoya’s Jazz Scene is Blowing its Own Horn

By Bert Wishart

When you think of music in Japan, it is hard to get past the idea of uber-cute J-Pop idols, adorably non-threatening boy bands, and the bright insanity of gravity-defying-haired Visual Kei bands. However, scratch past that (admittedly voluminous and ubiquitous) surface, and you will find that Nagoya has a varied...[ Click to read more ]

Navigating Everything on Offer at Osaka Kizu Wholesale Market

Jun 28, 2022 By Justin Hanus

Whether you want a meal made with the freshest fish you can find, are searching for souvenirs, or want to experience a traditional Japanese market, Kizu Wholesale Market in Osaka is the place to go. It opens at 5:00 a.m. every day, but if you want to steer clear of...[ Click to read more ]

The Top Local Dishes in Kumamoto

By Justin Hanus

Kumamoto is known for its diverse cuisine. As well as Japanese food, you can find restaurants in Kumamoto serving food from all over the world, including from China, India, Korea, and Turkey. During your time in Kumamoto, don’t neglect to try some of the local dishes, though. There are a...[ Click to read more ]

Eating Unagi in Nagoya: Hitsumabushi

Jun 26, 2022 By Ray Proper

July 23 is Unagi no hi, or Unagi day! Unagi, or barbecued freshwater eel, is readily available all over Japan. Besides sushi, this is probably my favorite Japanese food. It can be a fantastic meal if you get a perfect place that selects its eel well and grills it over...[ Click to read more ]

Best Restaurants in Hiroshima

May 25, 2022 By Justin Hanus

Hiroshima has a good reputation for cuisine. Many consider Hiroshima the "home of okonomiyaki," and it boasts more okonomiyaki restaurants per capita than anywhere else in Japan. Seafood restaurants are also in abundance in the city, and you can find a diverse array of international eateries, too, ensuring that there's...[ Click to read more ]

Artisan Coffee Shops in Tokyo

May 24, 2022 By Michael Stigall

It seems hard to believe, but there was once a time when finding a good cup of coffee in Tokyo was a challenge or at the very least required a journey to an artisan shop invariably located on some far side of town. Nowadays, artisan coffee and the coffee scene...[ Click to read more ]

Mix It Up! International Food in Hiroshima

Apr 28, 2022 By William Farrow

Japanese food is fantastic; no arguments there. Yet, what was that old adage? Ah, right: Variety is the spice of life. For this article, we will dig up some food choices from around the world. Time to dig in! Cal/Tex-Mex: Graffity Finding decent American food is not a big challenge...[ Click to read more ]

Kumamoto’s Farmland: Aso Milk Factory

By William Farrow

In the north of Aso city is the Aso Milk Factory, where you can experience the delicious taste of locally produced dairy, pick delicious fruit, and take a pleasant stroll through a lovely flower garden. The Aso Milk Factory is a fun little stop for those making a day trip...[ Click to read more ]

Cool, Calm and Caffeinated: Coffee in Hiroshima

By William Farrow

Coffee. Without it, modern life may very well not be possible. Japan has long embraced caffeinated bean juice and offers an almost overwhelming number of options for the person on the go. So what options do foreign residents have at their fingertips? Cups for Busy People The most widely available...[ Click to read more ]