Culture
Gift Giving in Japan: Sad, Happy, Overjoyed? Have a Towel
Towels might not be your first choice abroad, but in Japan, they’re a meaningful and practical gift. Why is that?
By Cassandra Lord 4 min read
5 New Spots to Eat and Drink in Tokyo: Neo-Yokocho in Japan
Enjoy the essence of a classic 'yokocho' (side street) in a more contemporary setting by heading to a neo-yokocho in Tokyo.
Away Games: Ranking Every Pro Baseball Stadium in Japan
See what the sport has to offer in every corner of Japan. One fan made the full journey and ranked every pro ballpark.
Places of Worship: The Shrines of Ise and Daihonzan Eiheiji
Travel with Fergus to Fukui and Mie and discover some of the most important sites of worship in Shinto and Zen Buddhism.
Why is Japan called ‘Japan’ and not ‘Nihon?’
The reason why Japan isn’t called Nihon involves a gradual change over millennia and the many countries that had an influence on it.
The Eel and The Ox: Summer Unagi in Japan
Learn about Day of the Ox and why people in Japan can't get enough eel in summer.
4 Japanese Comfort Foods Made in the Microwave
The journey of a thousand meals starts by pushing a single button.
5 Iconic Great Buddha Statues in Japan
These Great Buddha statues are as iconic as they are huge.
Tanabata: The Yin and Yang of Japanese Holidays
How much does Japan's star festival actually have to do with the stars?
What to Expect When Signing Up to a Gym in Japan
If there’s one thing Japan loves more than paperwork, it’s rules. And boy, do gyms in Japan have a lot of them.
Animal Symbolism of Shrines and Temples in Japan
Learn why a cat is lucky, why pregnant women want to have a dog's day and why you should never mess with crabs.
5 Cool Things I Learned About Japan at Ise Shrine
Not only is Ise Grand Shrine Japan's most important Shinto site—but it's also a great deep dive into Japanese culture and history.
