Start Planning Your Japan Trip
Use these practical guides to prepare internet, payments, hotels, and travel essentials before you arrive.
Latest Posts
How to Use Japanese Onsen & Sento: Etiquette, Tattoos, Kids
Step-by-step onsen and sento etiquette, tattoo rules, ryokan vs day-use, packing list and kid-friendly tips for first-time visitors to Japan.
How to Buy & Pack Japanese Ceramics: Arita, Seto, Mashiko
Practical guide to identifying Arita, Seto and Mashiko ceramics, packing fragile pieces for carry-on or shipping, plus tax-free and customs tips for travel
How to Visit Japan’s Best Gardens: Seasons, Photos & Etiquette
Practical guide to Japan's top gardens: best seasons, photography tips, etiquette, accessibility and where to go in Tokyo, Kyoto and Kanazawa.
How to Eat in Japan with Allergies: Phrases, Cards & Safe Picks
Practical steps to dine safely in Japan with food allergies: Japanese phrases, printable allergy card text, safe restaurant types, and convenience-store ti
How to Visit Japan’s Top Observation Decks: Tickets, Times & Photo Tips
Practical guide to Tokyo Skytree, Tokyo Tower, Umeda Sky Building, Abeno Harukas and Mt. Hakodate: tickets, best times, photo and accessibility tips.
How to Experience Izakaya & Standing Bar Guide: What to Order, Etiquette, Paying
Practical guide to izakaya and standing bars: ordering, shared-plate rules, drink culture, smoking, reservations and payment tips for first-time visitors.
How to Experience Attend a Sumo Morning Practice (Asa-geiko)
Step-by-step guide to attend an asa-geiko: how to book a sumo stable visit, what happens during practice, etiquette, photo rules, transport tips, and check
What to Buy at Buy Japanese Textiles: Tenugui, Furoshiki & Indigo Tips
Find authentic tenugui, furoshiki and indigo fabrics: where to buy, how to check quality, price guide, packing and shipping tips for travelers.
What to Buy at Last-Minute Omiyage at Narita, Haneda & Kansai Airports
Need last-minute omiyage at Narita, Haneda or Kansai? Where to shop, typical prices, duty-free vs tax refunds, plus same-day packing and airport shipping t
How to Visit Owakudani (Hakone): Ropeway, Eggs & Best Tips
Plan a safe Owakudani visit: check ropeway and volcanic alert closures, find black eggs, best photo spots, and alternatives when the valley is closed.
How to Visit Best Times & Tips for Japan’s Temple and Shrine Night Lights
Find when to see temple and shrine illuminations, how to get tickets, camera tips, and polite behavior for first-time visitors planning evening visits.
What to Buy at Buying Japanese Kitchen Knives: Best Shops, Rules & Packing Tips
Practical guide for first-time visitors: where to buy knives, how to choose blades, airline/customs rules, and safe packing or shipping options.