Practical travel information to help you plan and travel Japan smoothly.
Navigating the journey from the bustling metropolis of Tokyo to the serene landscapes of Lake Kawaguchiko, the gateway to Mt. Fuji, can often feel like the first challenge of your trip. With multiple options available, each with its own trade-offs…
Arakurayama Sengen Park Cancels 2026 Cherry Blossom Festival Due to Overtourism FUJIYOSHIDA, YAMANASHI – The city of Fujiyoshida has announced the cancellation of the 2026 Arakurayama Sengen Park Cherry Blossom Festival, an event that draws over 200,000 visitors annually to…
Step into a world of timeless elegance at Kotohira Kadan, a traditional Japanese inn nestled in a lush garden at the base of the sacred Kotohira-gu Shrine. For travelers seeking an authentic ryokan experience steeped in history and literary romance,…
Updated Apr 2026 Reopening schedule confirmed. See our companion guide: Togakushi Shrine Reopening 2026 — 9 Dates & Access. Togakushi Shrine Closes Famous Cedar Avenue Until Spring 2026 NAGANO, JAPAN – In an unprecedented move, Togakushi Shrine has completely closed…
Imagine waking up completely surrounded by a serene forest, with sunlight filtering through the trees onto your bed. This isn’t a dream, but an experience offered at COMOREBI Yufuin, a luxury glamping resort in Oita, Japan. This article provides a…
So, you’ve heard about Japan’s famous sunakku, or snack bars. Maybe you’ve seen them in movies or read about their recent revival. But what exactly are they? Are they like a regular bar? An izakaya? Or something else entirely? For…
Step into a narrow alleyway in Tokyo, away from the dazzling glare of Shibuya Crossing, and you might stumble upon a discreet doorway with a simple sign: 「スナック」 (sunakku). For decades, these small, intimate bars were the cherished domains of…
Updated Apr 2026 Spring access is easiest right now. JR Chuo Line + local transfer times verified for the 2026 timetable. Cherry blossom hangover? The whole Nakasendo is fresh-green through May. Planning a trip to the stunningly preserved Edo-period post…
Nestled in the quiet hills of Yufuin, Oita Prefecture, Yutorinoyado Ikkoten offers a tranquil escape for travelers seeking a blend of traditional Japanese hospitality and modern luxury. Check availability and book Yufuin Ikkoten Imagine stepping into a world where each…
Welcome to Japan’s cherry blossom season! Hanami (flower viewing) is a beloved tradition, but it comes with unwritten rules rooted in a culture of sharing public spaces. While many parks are quite relaxed, knowing the core etiquette ensures you can…