Buying a Property in Japan
Jan 30, 2025 By Justin Hanus
If you’re an expat in Japan ready to settle, you may want to consider buying a home in the country. Japan has some great places to live, from thriving metropolises to more serene rural locations. There are minimal restrictions on foreigners buying property in Japan but you’ll need to follow...[ Click to read more ]
The Best Smartphone Apps for Living in Japan
Jan 28, 2025 By Admin
Moving to Japan is often a difficult adjustment — but the internet has many resources to make things easier, especially when you have the right apps. The following is a compilation of the best free and paid smartphone apps to make your life easier. OpenRice Cost: Free What it does: Finding a...[ Click to read more ]
Top Ideas for Valentine’s Day in Kansai
Jan 27, 2025 By Justin Hanus
You’re in luck if you are in Kansai over Valentine’s Day. The region may not be known for being among the most romantic destinations globally, but there are definitely some great spots for a unique date. Take a Spa Day at an Onsen Resort There are many onsen (hot springs...[ Click to read more ]
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 ]
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 ]
Christmas in Kansai
Nov 29, 2024 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 ]
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 ]
Halloween in Kansai
Sep 26, 2024 By Justin Hanus
Halloween has grown in popularity in Japan in the 21st century ever since Tokyo Disneyland hosted a big Halloween party in 2000. Nowadays, you can find themed events both big and small up and down the country. Halloween in Japan is a tad different from what you might expect in...[ Click to read more ]
