Popular Winter Meals in Kansai

Dec 26, 2024 By Justin Hanus

Japan is a country that prides itself on distinct seasonal dishes, with winter being the time when the hotpots traditionally come out, and people warm themselves up with tasty broths. But it’s not just about soup-based meals. There are many different popular types of Japanese cuisine, and each region has...[ Click to read more ]

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Road Trips in Kansai

By Justin Hanus

The Kansai region is a great part of Japan to discover by car. Beyond the big cities Kyoto, Osaka, and Kobe, many great destinations don’t take too long to reach. Plus, you’ll be able to take in some great scenery and cultural attractions along the way. Whether you’re looking for...[ Click to read more ]

Where to Drink Bubble Tea in Kansai

Dec 25, 2024 By Justin Hanus

Like in much of the rest of the world, bubble tea has become hugely popular in Japan. Although it first appeared in the country in the 90s, it took until the 2010s to become a lasting trend. Some in-person bubble tea shops went out of business during the pandemic but...[ Click to read more ]

Key Things You Need to Do After Moving to Kumamoto

By Justin Hanus

Although it’s only a small city, Kumamoto has a growing community of foreigners — made up of people both living in the city and visiting. If you’re moving to the city, you’ll be in great company. There are a few things you need to do right after you arrive to...[ Click to read more ]

Bicycling in Japan from 2024 on

Nov 29, 2024 By William Farrow

From 2024, the rules governing cylists and drivers via the Road Traffic Act have been amended. This round of revisions is particularly focused on cyclists compared to previous revisions. In 2022, bicycle accidents were nearly one-fourth of all total accidents in the country. Influenced by these trends, the Japanese government...[ Click to read more ]

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Christmas in Kansai

By Justin Hanus

Not being a predominantly Christian country, Japan doesn’t celebrate Christmas with quite the same fervour as people in the US, Canada or Europe. For example, Christmas is not a public holiday in Japan. If you want time off work to spend with family or friends, you’ll have to book it...[ Click to read more ]

Popular All-You-Can-Eat Restaurants in Kobe

By Justin Hanus

Food is always part of travelling and venturing into new places. Even if you’re not a big foodie, sampling new cuisine is a way to learn more about where you are. Eating out at restaurants can be a big part of the itinerary when you travel or move abroad. A...[ Click to read more ]

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New Year Celebrations in Kansai

By Justin Hanus

New Year (Shogatsu) is a time for big celebration in Japan. Seen as a period of cleansing and renewal as well as an opportunity to welcome in the New Year, festivities tend to last from January 1-3, with many people taking this period off work. There are various ways to...[ Click to read more ]

Best Bars in Kansai

Oct 25, 2024 By Justin Hanus

Fancy a tipple in Kansai? You can head to one of the region’s many bars. The more populated cities such as Osaka, Kobe and Kyoto have quite a buzzing nightlife where you can find a range of drinking establishments. From themed expat-friendly haunts such as traditional Irish or British pubs...[ Click to read more ]

The Kobe Dating Scene

By Justin Hanus

Are you a singleton in Kobe looking to find a suitable partner? Here’s what to expect plus a few tips on how to meet potential significant others and where to go to for a memorable first date. Japanese Dating Culture Dating in Kobe is influenced by the national dating culture...[ Click to read more ]

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