January 2026
How to Use Chopsticks Properly – A Beginner’s Guide to Japanese Chopstick Etiquette
Chopsticks are an essential part of dining in Japan, but for many visitors, using them correctly can feel challenging. Don’t worry—perfect technique is not required. However, learning the basic way to hold chopsticks and understanding a few etiquette rules will help you feel more confident at the table. This guide explains how to use chopsticks […]
How to Choose Sushi Toppings – A Beginner’s Guide to Sushi in Japan
Sushi is one of Japan’s most iconic foods, but for first-time visitors, choosing sushi toppings can feel overwhelming. With unfamiliar names, raw fish, and cultural etiquette, many travelers wonder where to start. This beginner-friendly guide explains how to choose sushi toppings (sushi neta) with confidence, helping you enjoy sushi in Japan without stress. What Is […]
Discovering Japan’s Washi Culture – Paper-Making Workshops and Hands-On Experiences
When exploring Japanese culture, visitors often focus on food, temples, and traditional arts such as tea ceremony or calligraphy. However, washi, traditional Japanese paper, is another cultural treasure that reflects Japan’s craftsmanship, aesthetics, and connection to nature. From centuries-old techniques to modern creative uses, washi remains an important part of everyday life and artistic expression. […]
A Complete Guide to SIM Cards and Pocket Wi-Fi in Tokyo
Staying connected is essential when traveling in Tokyo. From using maps and translation apps to sharing your journey on social media, having reliable internet access can make your trip smoother and more enjoyable. Fortunately, Japan offers several convenient options for visitors, including SIM cards and pocket Wi-Fi. In this guide, we explain the differences between […]
Nanakusa Gayu – Japan’s Traditional Congee for the New Year
When visiting Japan in early January, you may hear about Nanakusa Gayu, a simple congee eaten on January 7th. After the rich meals and celebrations of the New Year season, this gentle dish is believed to rest the stomach and bring good health for the year ahead. More than just comfort food, Nanakusa Gayu is […]
Mochi – Exploring Japan’s Beloved Rice Cake and Its Many Varieties
When traveling in Japan, you will often encounter mochi, a chewy rice cake that plays an important role in Japanese food culture. While many visitors recognize mochi as a sweet dessert, it actually comes in a wide variety of forms, both sweet and savory, and is especially connected to New Year traditions. In this article, […]
Tokyo’s Best Cheap Eats – Must-Try Local Foods for Visitors
When visiting Tokyo, it is easy to focus on famous sushi restaurants or Michelin-starred dining. However, some of the most memorable food experiences can be found in Japan’s good cheap eats "B-grade gourmet", or affordable local comfort food. These dishes are loved by locals, easy to try while sightseeing, and offer an authentic taste of […]
Osechi – A Guide to Japan’s Traditional New Year Cuisine
When visiting Japan around the New Year season, you may come across beautifully arranged boxes filled with colorful foods called Osechi. More than just a meal, Osechi is a centuries-old tradition that reflects Japanese values, wishes for the future, and deep cultural symbolism. In this article, we explore what Osechi is, why it is important, […]
Japanese New Year Traditions – Exploring Japan’s “Firsts” of the Year
When celebrating the New Year in Japan, you may notice that many customs begin with the word “Hatsu”, meaning “first.” From the first shrine visit to the first sunrise and even the first dream, these traditions reflect the Japanese idea that how you begin the year sets the tone for what follows. In this article, […]
Hatsuyume – The Meaning of Japan’s First Dream of the New Year
When celebrating the New Year in Japan, you may hear people talking about Hatsuyume, the first dream of the year. In Japanese culture, this dream is believed to carry special meaning and is often associated with good luck and future fortune. In this article, we explore what Hatsuyume is, its cultural background, and how this […]