When exploring Japan, it is nearly impossible to go more than a few blocks without hearing a brief yet catchy melody. Whether you’re browsing the aisles of a megastore or taking a stroll through the city streets, these unforgettable tunes are always playing, and they can […]
If you have ever visited Japan in winter, you may have come across one of the coziest inventions of all time: the kotatsu (炬燵, heated table). This traditional piece of furniture is more than just a way to stay warm. It represents comfort, family bonding, and […]
If you’re reading this post in late winter and happen to be in Tokyo, today you’ve enjoyed fewer than 10 hours of daylight. Where I’m writing from, mid-Coast Maine, the sun sets very early, at an alarming 4:30 pm, offering up fewer than 9 hours of […]
When you think of samurai, you might picture epic battles and legendary warlords. But where did these figures live, train, and build their legacies? Look no further than Shiga Prefecture, a land steeped in the history of Japan's warrior class. Its strategic location made it the […]
When you gaze at Lake Biwa (琵琶湖), Japan’s deepest and one of its oldest lakes, you might first see the restless surface of water, or the graceful silhouette of a torii gate reflected at dawn. But beneath that beauty lies a stirring legacy: centuries in which […]
Step into the vibrant realm where fashion and culinary creativity collide—the world of Japanese fashion. Buckle up, Foodies, as we're about to embark on a delicious journey through the unique styles inspired by Japan's rich culture and delectable cuisine. From the stylish offerings of Family Mart […]
What kind of superstitions exist in your country? Recently, I was whistling in my room during the day, and my Lithuanian partner told me, “Whistling indoors can summon devils or attract ghosts.” Being Japanese, I found this interesting because Japan also has superstitions about whistling, but […]
When visiting Tokyo, travelers often plan trips to well-known spots like Hakone or the Fuji Five Lakes. But did you know there are so many other wonderful places near Tokyo? These hidden gems offer beauty and cultural charm visitors often miss out on! In this blog, […]
Across the world, each season paints the landscape with its own mood and meaning. In Europe, we often connect the seasons not only with changing colors and shifting atmospheres, but even with music. Who hasn’t tried to guess which melody in Antonio Vivaldi’s magnificent The Four […]
Long before Japan’s high-speed trains and expressways, travelers crossed the country on foot along scenic highways that stitched together mountains, rivers, and bustling towns. Among the most celebrated was the Nakasendo, an inland route connecting Kyoto and Edo (modern-day Tokyo) during the Edo period (1603–1868). Samurai, […]
