Culture, travel and cuisine

For centuries, Ama divers in Japan have braved the ocean depths, free-diving without modern equipment to harvest seafood, pearls, and seaweed. This remarkable tradition, predominantly carried on by women, represents a unique maritime heritage that blends skill, endurance, and deep spiritual ties to the sea. In this article, we’ll explore the fascinating world of Ama […]

Japan is an island nation where the surrounding waters have played a crucial role in shaping its culture, economy, and biodiversity. With over 6,800 islands forming the Japanese archipelago, the country is intricately connected to various seas, including the Sea of Japan, the East China Sea, and the Pacific Ocean. This unique maritime geography influences

Japan, an island nation with a rich maritime history, is surrounded by diverse seas that shape its climate, biodiversity, and way of life. From the icy waters of the Sea of Okhotsk in the north to the Philippine Sea in the south, these bodies of water play a crucial role in Japan’s culture, economy, and

Navigating Japan’s efficient but complex public transportation system is about to become easier for international travelers. The Welcome Suica Mobile app, launching on March 6, 2025, is a revolutionary digital version of the Welcome Suica IC card, designed to simplify cashless payments for transport and shopping. This long-awaited mobile solution eliminates the need for a

Stretching from the southern tip of Kyūshū to the northern coast of Taiwan, the Japanese Nansei Islands form an archipelago of breathtaking beauty, rich biodiversity, and unique cultural heritage. This island chain, often referred to as the Ryūkyū Islands, is divided into two administrative regions: the Satsunan Islands (part of Kagoshima Prefecture) and the Ryūkyū

Japan is home to an extraordinary variety of flora and fauna, making it one of the most biologically diverse regions in the world. Stretching from the subarctic waters of Hokkaido to the subtropical islands of Okinawa, the country’s unique geography, climate variations, and marine ecosystems contribute to its unparalleled richness in biodiversity. In this guide,

The Japanese mola mola, also known as the ocean sunfish (マンボウ, manbō), is one of the most peculiar and awe-inspiring creatures found in Japan’s coastal waters. Known for its gigantic, disk-like body, peculiar movements, and docile nature, this deep-sea oddity has intrigued marine biologists, divers, and even historians for centuries. Once rumored to have played

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

Kyoto, Japan’s cultural heart, transforms into a breathtaking spectacle of lights during the winter season. Known for its historic temples, picturesque gardens, and traditional wooden streets, Kyoto takes on a whole new charm when illuminated at night. If you’re planning a trip between late autumn and early spring, the Kyoto Illumination 2024-2025 events offer an

Introduction: Is Living in Japan Right for You? Japan is a country that captures the imagination of many—whether it’s for its rich cultural traditions, technological innovations, or breathtaking landscapes. But what is it really like to live in Japan as a foreigner? The pros and cons of living in Japan vary depending on your background,

Discover the Tranquility of a Traditional Japanese Bathhouse Few cultural experiences in Japan are as unique and relaxing as visiting a traditional Japanese bathhouse. Whether it’s a sento (public bath) or an onsen (natural hot spring), these establishments have long been an essential part of Japanese life. They provide not just a way to cleanse

Osaka is famous for its delicious street food, neon-lit nightlife, and rich cultural history, but did you know it’s also home to some of the most relaxing spas in Japan? Whether you’re recovering from a long day exploring Universal Studios Japan, shopping in Shinsaibashi, or simply looking for a soothing escape, the city’s diverse selection

Japan is often associated with vibrant cities like Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka, but beyond the bustling urban hubs lies a treasure trove of hidden gems in rural Japan for travelers. These lesser-known destinations offer a glimpse into authentic Japanese culture, stunning natural beauty, and unique local traditions. If you’re looking for a quiet retreat away

Japan is a country where ancient traditions and cutting-edge modernity coexist in perfect harmony. While its culture is widely admired, certain customs can seem unusual, even bizarre, to visitors. From silent trains to bowing traffic controllers, Japanese customs can often leave foreigners both fascinated and confused. In this guide, we’ll explore the weirdest Japanese customs

Japan is known for its diverse landscapes, vibrant cities, and rich culture, but the cost of living in different regions of Japan can vary significantly. From the bustling metropolis of Tokyo to the serene countryside of Shikoku, expenses such as housing, utilities, transportation, and food differ based on location. Whether you’re planning to move, study,

While Tokyo and Osaka draw millions of visitors each year, Japan’s least populated prefectures offer a completely different experience—one filled with tranquility, breathtaking landscapes, and deeply rooted traditions. These regions are a treasure trove of history, folklore, and unique cultural practices, making them an ideal destination for travelers seeking authenticity and a slower pace of

Japan is often associated with its bustling cities, neon lights, and cutting-edge technology, but beyond the urban landscapes lies a world of breathtaking countryside villages that offer a glimpse into the nation’s rich cultural heritage and serene natural beauty. From picturesque thatched-roof houses to tranquil riversides surrounded by rolling hills, the most beautiful Japanese countryside

Mastering Japanese: Top Online Courses for Advanced Learners If you’ve already tackled the basics of Japanese and are ready to push your fluency to the next level, finding the right online course is essential. Advanced learners face unique challenges, from mastering keigo (敬語, honorific speech) to understanding nuanced kanji readings and idiomatic expressions. In this

Japan is home to thousands of festivals, known as matsuri, celebrated throughout the year. While Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka host some of the most famous events, the best Japanese festivals in rural Japan offer a unique charm, deep cultural traditions, and fewer crowds. If you’re looking for an authentic Japanese experience, attending a festival in

Japan’s shrinking population has led to a surplus of vacant homes, known as akiya (空き家), scattered across the country. Reports claim that millions of homes are abandoned and that some are even available for free. But is it really possible to secure free housing in Japan? The answer is both yes and no. While some