In this guide we break down Japan's transportation networks, equipping you with the knowledge & confidence to tackle your Japan self-guided tour.

These comfort foods, often associated with the Kansai region (Osaka & environs in western Japan), have won fans across Japan and beyond. Okonomiyaki and takoyaki provide a good window into Japanese food culture, showcasing local ingredients, cooking techniques and the social aspect of dining.

As we continue to delve into some of the many options for good coffee in Japan, in Part 2 we’ll explore a mainstay of Japan’s coffee culture (and of modern Japanese culture in general): The Kissaten or coffee shop.

Japan's railway network is a world class example of efficiency, punctuality and comfort that never fails to impress international travelers.

Let’s hop on a journey through the intricate Japanese train system, sharing insights that will help you make the most of your visit to Japan. 

Visit any Japanese home – be it a country farmhouse or a Tokyo condo – and the first thing you’ll see inside the doorway is a collection of shoes and slippers.

So what are the rules when visiting Japan? Where can you leave your shoes on, and where do you need to take them off?

Japan has a lot going for it. From its rich cultural heritage to its stunning natural beauty, there’s plenty to explore and enjoy. And it’s way more than sushi and samurai! Dive into the local culture by visiting festivals, Stroll through bustling markets, department store food halls and local groceries, savoring the sights and smells of local, authentic Japanese food at its finest.

You might be thinking, "wait, Japan? Isn't it all about green tea?" Yes, Japan is famous for its tea. But trust me, they take their coffee just as seriously. Japan's coffee game is stronger than that espresso shot you desperately need on Monday mornings.

There are so many great places and things to experience in Japan, and yet most people are held back by either limited information or, even worse, by fear of missing out (FOMO). Which is ironic, isn’t it, considering that this fear is actually causing them to miss out!

Japan is experiencing a phenomenon that’s not uncommon in tourist destinations around the world. Some attractions and a handful of restaurants are now charging higher prices for foreign tourists – or, if you will, they are offering “lower” prices to locals.

What’s your favorite Japanese food?

If your answer is sushi or ramen, you’re not alone. Ramen and sushi are the heavy hitters of Japanese cuisine outside Japan. But how do Japanese people feel about sushi or ramen? Do they approach these foods with the same level of zeal and fervor seen beyond Japan’s borders?

In this article we're going to present both sides to you, in an honest assessment of whether you should travel on some or all of Japan’s Golden Route when visiting Japan – as well as how to make the most of your experience.

Semi are the famous cicadas, a sure sign to anyone raised in or familiar with Japan that summer is upon us. Unlike cicadas in parts of the United States, for example, which only come out every X number of years, semi are an annual tradition in Japan. How loud do they get?

People often ask us, “what's the ideal amount of time to visit japan?”

Our answer is always, “As much time as you've got – and then add some more.”

Should you join a traditional tour group, shuffling from sight to sight on a rigid schedule? Or should you go it alone, potentially missing out on hidden gems and insider knowledge? Enter the self-guided tour – the best of both worlds for many travelers. It gives you a knowledgeable Japan expert to plan your trip, plus the freedom to explore at your own pace. 

For this series, I’ll do my best to bring you more personal observations and anecdotes. My take on life in Japan, as someone who’s not originally from here but calls it home.

…some folks still want that interaction. They want the peace of mind, knowing that a local expert has their back. And they like the idea of having a host/guide/concierge who’s watching over their journey — from afar, mind you, but here when you need us…