Japanese Public Libraries for the Non-Japanese Reader
Apr 25, 2022 By Michael Stigall
After a while, you’ll notice the sheer amount of bookstores and reading materials there seem to be in Japan. While print media has been declining in the West, with the occasional revival, physical books and media are still very much a thing in Japan. Part of the reason may be...[ Click to read more ]
Shin-Yokohama Raumen Museum
Apr 22, 2022 By Jason Gatewood
Whether you only know about ramen in its instant, cup-o-noodles variety or are a true fan who can tell the difference between shoyu and tonkotsu-based ramen by smell alone, perhaps you'll agree: Ramen is so good, it should be in a museum. Well, you're in luck -- there is a...[ Click to read more ]
Tokyo’s Zoos
Mar 31, 2022 By Michael Stigall
As spring thankfully arrives, it's time to abandon the confines of the indoors and embrace the glorious outdoors before that stifling summer heat reclaims the land. One great way to enjoy the fresh air while entertaining the family is to take them out to one of the city's zoos. There...[ Click to read more ]
Top 5 Spring Hiking Destinations in Japan
By Michael Stigall
With 73% of Japan's landmass being mountains, there's plenty of selection for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts. There is absolutely gorgeous terrain to hike throughout the country, and every region boasts its famous peaks or hikes. Of course, some popular standouts are worth repeat visits, like Mount Fuji. But if you're...[ Click to read more ]
Golfing Around Tokyo
By Michael Stigall
Being so filled with people, one could be forgiven for thinking that Tokyo is not the best place to spoil a good walk, to paraphrase Mark Twain. However, there are many fantastic and world-class golf courses around the capital. Of course, there are many roof-top driving ranges where you can hammer...[ Click to read more ]
Do I Amuse You? Japan’s Best Amusement Parks
Mar 24, 2022 By Bert Wishart
As far back as I remember, I always loved going to amusement parks, and fortunately for me, the Japanese are as crazy for rollercoasters as I am. Japan has some of the best theme parks in the world, and according to Statista, in 2020, some 31 million people visited, which...[ Click to read more ]
English language bookshops in Tokyo
Feb 28, 2022 By Michael Stigall
With the advent of e-readers and smartphones, getting your hands on English language literature in Japan isn’t the challenge it once was. It used to be a significant challenge, even in big cities. However, sometimes the book you are looking for isn’t available online, or you just like the feel...[ Click to read more ]
The Best Train Passes in Japan (For Residents)
By Michael Stigall
Many people know of the exceptional value of a Japan Rail Pass, which allows tourists to ride the train systems in Japan for a set period without paying individual ticket prices. Unfortunately, the Rail Pass is only available to non-residents of Japan, so if you're not a tourist, then you're...[ Click to read more ]
Kid Friendly Activities in Tokyo
By Michael Stigall
Tokyo is big, really big. One significant upside to its massive size is that there is something for everyone to enjoy. Obviously, the metropolis is a Mecca to anime and manga fans. Similarly, lovers of technology have several sights and neighborhoods to enjoy. Let’s also not forget nightlife considering that...[ Click to read more ]
Climbing the Walls – Bouldering in Tokyo
Jan 24, 2022 By Michael Stigall
I doubt that there is a single kid in the western world and a few from other places in the world who doesn’t want to crawl the walls like a certain well-known web-slinging superhero. While most of those climbing feats aren’t possible, it is still possible to do some serious...[ Click to read more ]
