Articles in Plan your trip category

To Know

Japan Visitor - kaiseki20181.jpg

Food in Japanese: Exploring the Rich and Diverse Culinary Landscape of Japan

Japan boasts a rich and diverse culinary scene deeply rooted in history and culture. Understanding Japanese food terms is key to appreciating the nuances of the cuisine.

The sika deer : A fascinating species native to East Asia

The sika deer (Cervus nippon) is a captivating species native to much of East Asia, including Japan, Taiwan, eastern China, Korea, and parts of Russia.

Japanese symbols - Exploring the fascinating world of Hiragana, Katakana, and Kanji

The Japanese language uses a complex writing system comprised of three main types of symbols: hiragana, katakana, and kanji.

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Komainu: The Fierce Guardians of Japan's Sacred Shrines and Temples

Visitors to Japan's numerous Shinto shrines and Buddhist temples are often greeted by a pair of imposing lion-like statues flanking the entrance.

Where to admire the cherry blossoms in spring

Japan is renowned for its distinct and beautiful seasons. One of the most eagerly awaited is undoubtedly spring, with the blossoming of the sakura cherry trees.

Original melon pan at Kagetsudo

Street food in Asakusa: Indulge in culture and cuisine

One of the most iconic locations in Eastern Tokyo is Asakusa, largely cited as the main hub of Tokyo’s “Shitamachi.” Shitamachi refers to one of the two major historic districts of Tokyo, and the n

ryokan onsen

Onsen: a short guide to proper etiquette

Onsen (hot springs) and sento (public baths) are great places to relax. They are distinct communal areas with very precise rules of good conduct and etiquette.

Shimenawa: The Sacred Ropes of Japan and Their Significance in Shinto

Shimenawa are large ropes made of rice straw or hemp commonly seen at Shinto shrines, torii gates, and sacred landmarks in Japan.

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Travel by Train

Shirakawago, Takayama

How to get from Kanazawa to Takayama

Go from Kanazawa to Takayama with the Hokuriku Shinkansen and the Hida Express Train!

Matsumoto Castle in Nagano

How to get from Tokyo to Matsumoto

Use the Azusa Limited Express Train to get from the metropolitan capital of Japan, Tokyo, to the historically rich but modest town of Matsumoto in Nagano Prefecture!

Kyoto

How to get from Kyoto to Osaka

No two cities are said to represent the Kansai Region more than Kyoto and Osaka, and getting from one to the other is made easy with the popular limited express trains that service the area!

Sanno Festival in Takayama

How to get from Nagoya to Takayama

The terminal station of the Hida Limited Express, Nagoya in Aichi Prefecture, goes out to the other side of Honshu Island to the Japan Sea Coast, and halfway through, it stops at Takayama, a nature

Kyoto

How to get from Nagoya to Kyoto

Get from Nagoya to Kyoto, two of the most famous cities in Japan, using the famous Tokaido-Sanyo Shinkansen Line. 

Kanazawa Station

How to get from Kyoto to Kanazawa

See the best way to get from Kyoto to Kanazawa using the Thunderbird Limited Express Train and Shinkansen bullet train!

Golden week

Golden Week Travel Advice

Japan will celebrate Golden Week from April 29 to May 6, 2024, which comprises four national holidays: Showa Day on April 29, Constitutional Memorial Day on May 3

The Nozomi Shinkansen Series N700

Shinkansen Japan Rail Pass: The Ultimate Guide

The Japan Rail Pass is an economical and convenient way for foreign tourists to travel around Japan by train, especially on the famous shinkansen bullet trains.

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