Yoyogi Park – Where The World Comes to Tokyo
Apr 30, 2024 By Michael Stigall
Situated south of Shinjuku, north of Shibuya and just west of Harajuku, the expanse of lush greenery, rolling hills and clear ponds known as Yoyogi Park serves as an oasis...[ Click to read more ]
Hanami in Tokyo 2024
Feb 28, 2024 By Michael Stigall
Rejoice for the end of winter is nearly here, and one of the best times to be in Japan is almost upon us. I am speaking, of course, of cherry...[ Click to read more ]
Hatsumode in Tokyo – Making Your First Shrine Visit of 2024
Dec 27, 2023 By Michael Stigall
New Years in Japan is laser-focused on firsts. You have your first sunrise of the year, which is very important, and other firsts like the Shinnenkai parties to bring in...[ Click to read more ]
Winter Illuminations in Tokyo 2023
Nov 30, 2023 By Michael Stigall
Christmas Day in Japan is just another working day for the most part. The most interesting facet of the Christmas and holiday season in Japan is that all traces of...[ Click to read more ]
Japanese New Years’ Traditions
Nov 24, 2022 By Jason Gatewood
New Year is the main holiday of the year in Japan, and the country shuts down for several days as people take time off to spend time with their families...[ Click to read more ]
A Guide to Onsen and Super Sento in and around Tokyo
Sep 28, 2022 By Michael Stigall
The onsen is one thing that immediately comes to mind when one thinks of Japan, and it's no mystery why. In addition to appearing in most tourism-related media, they are...[ Click to read more ]
The Yukata Matsuri Festival in Himeji
May 25, 2022 By Justin Hanus
The yukata is a garment similar to a kimono worn in summer, particularly at matsuri (festivals). It is so popular some festivals celebrate it; these are called Yukata Matsuri. The...[ Click to read more ]
Furusato Matsuri Tokyo 2022
Dec 25, 2021 By Jason Gatewood
Like food? Silly question, right, of course you like food! If you are looking for the opportunity to sample dishes from all over Japan but don’t have the time on...[ Click to read more ]
Hatsumode in Tokyo – Shrines to Visit for New Years
Dec 24, 2021 By Bert Wishart
In Japan, celebrating New Year is all about 'firsts.' Perhaps the most important 'first' is the first trip to a shrine, a tradition called hatsumode. While this visit can happen...[ Click to read more ]
Dream Yosacoy Festival 2021
Oct 19, 2021 By Jason Gatewood
Yosakoi dancing started in Kochi in Shikoku around 1954 as a way to celebrate postwar reconstruction, building spirit, and teamwork. Blending traditional Japanese dance and costume motif with modern music,...[ Click to read more ]
