Cultural blunders are social no-nos that can lead to misunderstandings or awkward situations in Japan. These blunders can be simple mistakes. Things like not taking off your shoes before entering someone’s home. Or more complex misunderstandings, such as failing to show respect for someone in a position of authority. While these mistakes may seem small, […]

You’ve probably heard the Japanese word “kawaii” at least once before. In its simplest form, it means cute or adorable. It’s something you admire for its youth and innocence. Wherever Japan is mentioned, you’ll see cute stuff associated with it. From cute cartoonish mascots to products on store shelves, it’s become a huge Japanese identifier. […]

Omikuji are little slips of rectangular paper at shrines and temples. And as fortune telling is big business here, you’ve more than likely seen them if you’ve been to Japan. They are popular year-round, but particularly on New Year’s Day to test luck. For some they are a bit of fun. For others, they truly […]

Japanese capsule hotels offer a unique experience that is perfect for budget-minded travelers. And if you’re traveling in Japan, there’s a good chance you’ll eventually wind up in one In this blog post, we will discuss what Japanese capsule hotels are and why they are so popular! A Brief History of the Capsule Hotel Japanese […]

In Japan, an onsen, or hot spring, is considered part of normal life. People go with their families on the weekend or with colleagues after a grueling day at work. After skiing, snowboarding or camping  is a personal favourite of mine. Yet, for an outsider, the local Japanese culture and traditions can seem daunting. So, […]

Walk past any bright, pulsating building in Tokyo at 3pm on a Tuesday, and you’ll hear it. The deafening clatter of thousands of steel balls bouncing through vertical mazes. Step inside, and you’ll find cigarette smoke, bright neon lights, and crowds focused on machines that look like giant pinball tables. Pachinko is a uniquely Japanese […]

There are a lot of vending machines selling all sorts of things in Japan. You can find them on every street corner, train station, and even the country’s most remote parts. They come in many shapes and sizes and sell various goods and services. Some sell cold drinks like green tea and snacks, while others […]

Ever worried about accidentally offending someone during your Japan trip? Knowing a few basic customs helps you enjoy your trip more and show respect to your hosts. After living in Japan for over 2 decades, I have learned what helps tourists fit in naturally. This guide covers the most important Japan etiquette rules you need […]