Culture
How to Enjoy an Onsen Like a Local
An onsen (hot spring) is more than just a bath — it’s a sacred place for relaxation and connection with nature. The water, rich in minerals, is believed to have healing properties for the skin and body. Step-by-Step Onsen Etiquette 1. Wash Before Entering – Shower and rinse thoroughly at the washing area before soaking.2. […]
Cheki Culture in Japan – Snapshots with Maids and Underground Idols
When traveling in Japan, you may come across a unique word: cheki. This refers to instant photos taken with a small Polaroid-style camera. While instant photography exists worldwide, in Japan it has grown into a distinct culture, especially in maid cafes and the underground idol scene. What Is a Cheki? A cheki is a credit-card–sized […]
Sweet Treats and Snacks You Shouldn’t Miss
No trip to Japan is complete without indulging in Japanese sweets and snacks. They range from traditional wagashi to modern street food desserts. Sweet / Snack Description Why You Should Try It Yokan Sweet bean jelly Traditional, often served with tea Nama Yatsuhashi Soft cinnamon mochi from Kyoto Local souvenir favorite Taiyaki Fish-shaped cake filled […]
Unique and Adventurous Japanese Foods
For travelers who want to go beyond the usual, Japan offers a range of unusual, regional, and adventurous foods. Some are delicacies, others are comfort foods that may surprise you. Dish Description Why You Should Try It Takoyaki Octopus balls topped with sauce, mayo, and bonito flakes Street food favorite from Osaka Yakisoba Stir-fried noodles […]
Beyond Sushi and Ramen – Japan’s Everyday Classics
When people think of Japanese food, sushi and ramen often come to mind first. But Japan’s culinary world is much broader. From hearty hotpots to comforting noodles, there are countless dishes that locals eat daily and visitors should definitely try. Here are some must-try Japanese classics: Dish Description Why You Should Try It Sukiyaki Beef, […]
The Fascinating World of Gachapon – Japan’s Capsule Toy Culture
When visiting Japan, you’ll quickly notice rows of vending machines filled with small capsules. These are called gachapon (also known as gashapon), a unique part of Japanese pop culture that combines surprise, collectability, and fun into a single coin-operated experience. What Is Gachapon? The word gachapon comes from two sounds: gacha, the turning of the […]
A Guide to Japan’s Karaoke Culture
Did you know the word karaoke is Japanese? It comes from “kara” (empty) and “oke” (short for orchestra), literally meaning “empty orchestra.” What started in Japan in the 1970s has now become a worldwide pastime, but the experience of karaoke in Japan remains unique and deeply cultural. 1. Private Karaoke Rooms Unlike many Western countries […]
How to Enjoy Japanese Arcades – From Purikura to Taiko no Tatsujin
For many visitors to Japan, arcades are more than just a place to play video games—they are a unique part of modern Japanese pop culture. You can find them all over major cities, especially in Akihabara, Ikebukuro, and Shinjuku, where multi-floor arcades line the streets with bright neon signs. These amusement spaces offer a wide […]
Akihabara vs Ikebukuro – Which is Better for Anime Fans?
Tokyo is the ultimate destination for anime lovers from around the world, and two neighborhoods stand out above the rest: Akihabara and Ikebukuro. Both are hotspots for anime, manga, and gaming culture, but they each have a unique atmosphere and cater to different types of fans. If you’re planning a trip to Tokyo, here’s how […]
The Global Anime Boom Among Young People: Why Japan Is at the Heart of It
Anime is no longer just a niche hobby in Japan—it has become a worldwide cultural phenomenon, especially among younger generations. From Tokyo to New York, Paris to São Paulo, anime shapes fashion, music, art, and even travel. For many international visitors, exploring Japan’s anime culture is one of the main reasons to book a trip. […]