Contributor

Ashley Owen

Ashley is a writer and English teacher from the U.K., who is currently traveling around Japan on a working holiday visa. She moved here in 2017 after completing her Master’s degree in philosophy in London. As well as exploring Japan, in her spare time she enjoys reading, yoga and, of course, studying Japanese.

Articles

Explore

This Bud’s for You: Tap into Japan’s Craft Beer Scene

Hop on board Japan’s microbrew train with this guide to some of the country’s best beers and where to find them.

By 6 min read

Culture

All About Ocha: The Wonderful World of Japanese Tea

Whether you drink it hot, cold, bagged, powdered, loose leaf, in jeans or in a kimono — green tea is inextricably linked with Japanese culture. From “matcha” to “houjicha,” here’s our guide to enjoying the many different styles.

By 6 min read

Culture

Sake Cheat Sheet: Get Your Drink on with This Handy Guide to Nihonshu

An introductory guide to Japan’s national tipple.

By 5 min read

Explore

Mochi Mochi Nippon! All You Need to Know about Japan’s Ubiquitous Rice Cakes

It’s beaten, sweetened and eaten all across the country in infinite varieties and on all occasions. Here’s a quick primer and a short warning on this ever-present treat.

By 5 min read

Explore

Guilt-free animal adventures in Japan

Four fantastic locations in Japan where you can get up close and personal with animals in their natural habitat.

By 6 min read

Explore

Vegan in Japan: 3 Veg-Friendly Eateries in Sapporo

Heading to Hokkaido? Check out these three fantastic restaurants for great-tasting vegan fare.

By 5 min read

Explore

Vegan in Japan: 4 Veg-Friendly Eateries in Kamakura

Four seaside vegetarian restaurants in Kanagawa that will make your beach getaway perfect!

By 6 min read

Explore

Vegan in Japan: 4 Veg-Friendly Eateries in Kyoto

Just a small selection of what’s available in one of Japan’s most vegan-friendly cities!

By 6 min read

Explore

Vegan in Japan: 3 Veg-Friendly Eateries in Kobe

Planning a trip to Kobe? Don’t miss these three vegan-friendly restaurants.

By 6 min read

Explore

Vegan in Japan: 4 Veg-Friendly Eateries in Hiroshima City

Here are four restaurants that are a must-visit for any vegans or vegetarians traveling to Hiroshima.

By 5 min read

Explore

Japan Wanderlust: 6 Amazing Mountains to Climb Under 1,000 Meters

If you’ve got your sights set on climbing Mt. Fuji but aren’t sure where to start, check out these six stunning peaks that even beginners can conquer.

By 6 min read

Explore

Vegan in Japan: 4 Veg-Friendly Eateries in Fukuoka

Check out these great Fukuoka restaurants in part two of our plant-based tour of Japan!

By 5 min read