Surviving Summer Weekends with Kids

Jul 31, 2024 By William Farrow

With summer comes summer vacation. What was once a strong, fond memory of days with no school or responsibility and the only challenge being determining which order to play with what toys takes a stark change in tone and goals when you find yourself on the parental side. Remote workers...[ Click to read more ]

Summer Beer Gardens in Tokyo 2024

Jul 29, 2024 By Michael Stigall

In summer, is there anything better than sipping on an ice cold beer as the city temperature rises? Well yes, actually there is: Digging into a freshly grilled piece of meat that perfectly accompanies your frosty glass. There are of course many beer gardens across the city right now, but...[ Click to read more ]

Great Places for a Sunset in Hiroshima

By Justin Hanus

Hiroshima has an array of tall buildings and places of natural beauty from where you can take postcard-perfect snaps of both day and night views to send to family, friends or social media. Nothing quite creates a “wish I was there” moment like a glorious sunset. Whether you want to...[ Click to read more ]

What to Visit in Kikuchi

By Justin Hanus

Kyushu, in general, is packed with great outdoor adventures — from mountains to climb and trails to cycle to rivers to wade in and forests to bathe in. One of the best places to enjoy all these kinds of adventures is Kikuchi. During your visit, make sure you see all...[ Click to read more ]

Where to Go Horseback Riding in Kansai

By Justin Hanus

There are few better ways to enjoy some fresh air in Kansai than on a horse. Various clubs and riding centers offer trekking opportunities and classes to riders of all abilities, including complete beginners. Miki Horseland Park One of the most popular places to ride horses in Kansai is Miki...[ Click to read more ]

Get the Wind in Your Summer Sails with Water Sports in Aichi

Jun 28, 2024 By Bert Wishart

When I first moved to Nagoya, I was pretty happy because it was right near the coast. I had visions of the sorts of beaches one sees in Thailand or Okinawa. Unfortunately, though the Ise and Mikawa bays are meccas for fishing, they are not exactly the most picturesque of...[ Click to read more ]

Summer Activities in Tokyo For Kids

Jun 26, 2024 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 ]

Best Summer Picnic Spots in Tokyo

By Michael Stigall

With the weather becoming a lot nicer, many people are ready to get out and enjoy the warm weather, and having a picnic is an excellent and cheap way to get out into the city and enjoy it. I know a few places from small squares to riverside glens that...[ Click to read more ]

A Guide to Flowers in Hiroshima: From Wisteria to Tulips

By Justin Hanus

The climate of Hiroshima is ideal for a wide variety of flowering plants. These add to the beauty of the already stunning landscapes and many contribute to the local economy. Before you go to Hiroshima, have an idea of what flowers you can expect to see. Wisteria After the cherry...[ Click to read more ]

Your Summer Prep Checklist

May 31, 2024 By William Farrow

As the sun begins its daily climb earlier and earlier with each passing day, the familiar signs of summer have begun to show. Experienced Japan residents know what this means - Long, humid days interspersed with intense rainfall depending on how the typhoons play out for the season. Summer can...[ Click to read more ]