Best Parks in Hiroshima
Nov 30, 2023 By Justin Hanus
Located in the southwest of Japan’s largest island – Honshu – and with a rich and varied history, Hiroshima prefecture is a draw for many tourists to the country and has also become the home to many expat settlers. Among its attractions are several parks that provide not just great...[ Click to read more ]
Getting a Kick out of Karate – What’s it all about and where to do it in Nagoya
By Bert Wishart
When I was six years old, my parents signed me up at a local karate class. I’m not sure why; perhaps because, as the smallest kid in my class, they thought I’d need to toughen up to survive primary school, or maybe they just wanted me out of their hair...[ Click to read more ]
The Wild Dolphins of Amakusa
Nov 28, 2023 By Justin Hanus
The Amakusa Islands in Kumamoto are known for their unique culture, interesting geological formations, beautiful green hills — and, most importantly, the wild dolphins that live just off the shore. Estimates put the number of Minami bottlenose dolphins (also called Indo-Pacific bottlenose dolphins) in the area at 200 to 300....[ Click to read more ]
Great Things to Do in Western Kumamoto
By Justin Hanus
Western Kumamoto is dominated by Mount Kinbo, a now-extinct volcano, but there is still plenty on offer. Whether you enjoy spending time in nature, are interested in ancient Japanese culture, or are looking ways to keep fit throughout the year, you’ll find numerous things to do and see in this...[ Click to read more ]
Biking Around Tokyo
Oct 27, 2023 By Michael Stigall
As sure as you'll find vending machines, convenience stores, and a small shrine in the average Japanese neighborhood, you'll find people traveling around on a bicycle. More everyday transport than pleasure, most Japanese use their bikes to run errands, ferry children to daycare, and get to and from their local...[ Click to read more ]
Public Transport in Kobe
By Justin Hanus
One of the three main cities in the Kansai region, Kobe has good transport links that can get you around the city, the outskirts and further afield. Between 2-3 hours from Tokyo by train, it also has its own airport and seaport. Most of the city center parts can be...[ Click to read more ]
The Top Parks Around Tokyo
Oct 26, 2023 By Michael Stigall
The metropolis is a great place to live, but the space available isn't always great. Being constantly surrounded by buildings can feel a bit oppressive after a while. That is when it is to get out and recharge in a spot with some green, take a mental health day! Granted,...[ Click to read more ]
How to Get an ETC Card in Japan
Oct 19, 2023 By Justin Hanus
To pay the expressway tolls in Japan, it helps to have an Electronic Toll Collection (ETC) card. This allows you to make automatic cashless payments instead of needing to stop at tollbooths and pay in cash. There are even special lanes at the tolls for holders of ETC cards, which...[ Click to read more ]
Where to See the Fall Leaves in Hiroshima
Sep 28, 2023 By Justin Hanus
Even if you’ve seen autumn foliage in other countries, nothing compares to Japan. Hiroshima is an ideal place to experience the fall colors because the prefecture is packed with forests, temples, and gardens. The possibilities of where you can see the leaves are almost endless, but a few spots stand...[ Click to read more ]
Owning Pets in Kansai
By Justin Hanus
Are you moving to Kansai with a furry (or scaly) friend or looking to get one after settling in? Luckily, Japan is very pet-friendly, so you shouldn’t have too many problems if you follow the necessary guidelines. Here’s a brief overview of what you need to know. Popular pets in...[ Click to read more ]
