Japan captivates millions of visitors each year with its blend of ancient traditions and modern innovation. Whether you’re planning a trip, learning the language, or just fascinated by Japanese culture, following the best Japan blogs can provide invaluable insights, tips, and inspiration.
In this guide, we’ll introduce top blogs covering everything from travel and food to language learning and cultural deep dives. These bloggers offer first-hand experiences, detailed itineraries, and practical advice to help you make the most of your journey—whether virtual or real!
Why Follow Japan Blogs?
The internet is flooded with travel guides and language resources, but Japan-focused blogs stand out for their authentic experiences and expert knowledge. Here’s why you should follow them:
- Insider Tips – Get beyond touristy recommendations and explore local gems.
- Language Learning Help – Many Japan blogs provide kanji breakdowns, grammar lessons, and conversational phrases.
- Cultural Understanding – Avoid awkward faux pas by learning etiquette and customs.
- Budget Travel Hacks – Learn how to save money while exploring Japan.
- Foodie Adventures – Discover where to eat authentic Japanese cuisine.
- Seasonal Updates – From cherry blossom forecasts to Kyoto illuminations, Japan blogs keep you informed.
Top 10 Best Japan Blogs to Follow in 2025
Here are some of the best Japan blogs covering various aspects of life in Japan—travel, culture, food, language learning, and expat experiences.
1. Inside Kyoto
📌 Best for: Travelers focusing on Kyoto
🌏 Website: Inside Kyoto
Chris Rowthorn, a long-time Kyoto resident, runs Inside Kyoto, a must-read blog for anyone visiting Japan’s cultural heart. His Kyoto itineraries offer everything from one-day plans to extensive deep-dives, covering lesser-known shrines, historical districts, and scenic hikes.
Must-Read Post: Best Kyoto Itineraries for Every Traveler
2. Two Wandering Soles
📌 Best for: Sustainable and budget travel in Japan
🌏 Website: Two Wandering Soles
Katie and Ben specialize in sustainable and budget-conscious travel, sharing practical tips on affordable accommodations, transport passes, and free activities in Japan. Their Japan Rail Pass Guide is a lifesaver for first-time visitors.
Must-Read Post: Japan on a Budget – How to Save Money While Traveling
3. Japan Guide
📌 Best for: Comprehensive Japan travel planning
🌏 Website: Japan Guide
One of the oldest and most trusted Japan blogs, Japan Guide covers everything from regional travel tips to food recommendations. Their in-depth city guides are excellent for both first-time and repeat visitors.
Must-Read Post: Best Places to Visit in Japan by Season
4. Never Ending Footsteps
📌 Best for: Budget travelers & solo female travelers in Japan
🌏 Website: Never Ending Footsteps
Lauren shares practical budgeting tips for Japan and detailed breakdowns of travel costs. If you think Japan is expensive, her blog will show you ways to explore on a budget.
Must-Read Post: How Much Does It REALLY Cost to Travel in Japan?
5. Just One Cookbook
📌 Best for: Japanese food lovers
🌏 Website: Just One Cookbook
Nami’s Just One Cookbook is the go-to blog for authentic Japanese recipes. It also includes guides on regional specialties, food etiquette, and where to eat in Japan.
Must-Read Post: 10 Iconic Japanese Dishes You Must Try
6. Japan Starts here
📌 Best for: In-depth Japan travel itineraries & hidden gems
🌏 Website: Japan Starts Here
Robert Schrader’s Japan Starts Here provides detailed travel guides, itineraries, and cultural insights. His blog is great for travelers looking to explore both major cities and off-the-beaten-path locations, with practical advice on transportation, accommodations, and seasonal attractions.
Must-Read Post: The Most Wonderful Time of the Year (in Osaka)
7. NOMADasaurus
📌 Best for: Adventure travel in Japan
🌏 Website: NOMADasaurus
Alesha and Jarryd focus on adventurous, outdoor experiences in Japan, like hiking in the Japanese Alps and exploring hidden villages.
Must-Read Post: Best Hiking Trails in Japan
8. The Invisible Tourist
📌 Best for: Responsible & cultural travel in Japan
🌏 Website: The Invisible Tourist
Alyse’s blog, The Invisible Tourist, focuses on sustainable tourism in Japan. She offers detailed itineraries, etiquette tips, and cultural insights to help visitors experience Japan like a local while avoiding over-tourism.
Must-Read Post: 9 Spring Flowers in Japan That Aren’t Sakura (and Where to Find Them)
9. A Little Adrift
📌 Best for: Long-term & solo travel in Japan
🌏 Website: A Little Adrift
Shannon O’Donnell’s A Little Adrift shares personal experiences, budget travel tips, and detailed cultural insights from her journeys across Japan. Her blog is great for independent travelers looking for offbeat adventures and long-term travel strategies.
Must-Read Post: A Little Photoessay… Two Weeks of Nuance & Culture in Japan
10. The Poor Traveler
📌 Best for: Budget and first-time travelers to Japan
🌏 Website: The Poor Traveler
This blog is packed with budget travel hacks, itinerary planning guides, and cost breakdowns for travelers looking to save money in Japan.
Must-Read Post: Tokyo on a Budget – What You Need to Know
Tips for Using Japan Travel Blogs Effectively
💡 Bookmark & Compare: Different bloggers have different styles—some focus on luxury, others on budget travel. Compare insights before planning your trip.
💡 Check for Updates: Japan changes frequently—prices, transport options, and entry rules can shift. Follow your favorite blogs on social media for real-time updates.
💡 Join Blogger Communities: Many Japan bloggers have Facebook groups or Discord servers where they answer questions and share new tips.
💡 Use Multiple Resources: Combine blog recommendations with Google Maps, travel forums, and official websites for the best experience.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re planning a trip, learning Japanese, or just fascinated by Japan’s culture, these best Japan blogs will guide you with expert knowledge and insider tips.
Each blogger offers a unique perspective—from foodies and adventurers to luxury travelers and language learners. Bookmark your favorites, dive into their recommendations, and start crafting your own ultimate Japan experience!
🌟 Which Japan blog do you love the most? Let us know in the comments! 🚀
Discover More About Japan & Japanese Culture 🇯🇵✨
Looking for more insights into Japanese life, language, and travel? Check out these must-read articles from Wakoku:
📖 Japanese Language & Learning Resources
🔹 Mastering Japanese Alphabet Pronunciation – Learn how to pronounce Japanese characters correctly.
🔹 A Beginner’s Guide to Writing Hiragana Characters – Start writing hiragana with confidence.
🔹 Learn Japanese Kanji Basics: A Beginner’s Guide – Master the foundations of kanji efficiently.
🔹 How to Type Japanese Letters Easily – Learn to type Japanese on your keyboard like a pro.
🔹 How to Say “Hello” in Japanese: The Ultimate Guide to Japanese Greetings – Learn essential Japanese greetings and when to use them.
🏯 Japanese Culture & Traditions
🔹 Experiencing a Traditional Japanese Bathhouse – Discover the etiquette and relaxation of Japanese sento and onsen.
🔹 Essential Drinks Vocabulary in Japanese: Order Like a Pro – Learn how to order your favorite drinks in Japan.
🔹 Mastering Nature Vocabulary in Japanese: A Comprehensive Guide – Expand your Japanese vocabulary with nature-related words.
🚀 Travel & Living in Japan
🔹 The Pros and Cons of Living in Japan: What You Need to Know Before Moving – Understand the ups and downs of living in Japan.
🔹 Kyoto Illumination 2024-2025: A Magical Winter Light Experience – Explore Kyoto’s stunning winter light displays.
🔹 Spas to Visit in Osaka: A Guide to Relaxation in Osaka – Find the best spas for unwinding in Osaka.
🗻 Adventure & Exploration
🔹 Japanese Seafood Names: A Comprehensive Guide for Seafood Lovers – Learn the names of seafood in Japanese for dining and shopping.
🔹 Expand Your Japanese Fruits Vocabulary – Discover common and unique Japanese fruit names.
