Where to eat and drink in a yokocho like a Tokyo local
When it comes to Japan, many people think of Tokyo as the ultra-modern capital and Kyoto as the ancient one full of all things traditional. But what many people don’t know is that behind Tokyo’s tall buildings and neon lights are little pockets of former times living on despite their...
Why Osaka is every foodie’s dream city
Osaka was my first stop in Japan, and it quickly became clear what this place is famous for. Food. And my, was it glorious. I was constantly stimulated by the sights and smells of unrecognisable treats, my eyes and nose darting in different directions, not only in restaurants and supermarkets...
How to eat sushi in Tokyo
To dip or not to dip? Chopsticks or fingers? One bite or two? We asked Meg, our local guide in Tokyo, how to eat sushi like a local. (Hint: ginger is not a topping.) Sorry, I’m going to give so many rules here, but hopefully even with these rules, people...
Cleaning up Kumamoto
Two strong earthquakes struck the Kumamoto area in Japan on April 14th and April 16th, magnitudes 6.5 and 7.3, respectively. There were 49 deaths, which may not seem a huge number in natural disaster news — in fact, I believe most of people have probably already forgotten about it or...
Lost in translation: Why Japan does whisky bars better
The lift doors open and I step into a Bill Murray movie. The elevator’s halogen glare becomes the soft ripple of candlelight. A barman in a black vest and bowtie is mixing cocktails with the precision and concentration of a brain surgeon. There’s the murmur of conversation. A freaking grand...
The complete guide to: Tokyo travel
So you’re travelling to Tokyo — smart choice! This guide will give you everything you need to know about visiting Tokyo, from getting to and from the airport, to the cool local spots you should check out. Getting to and from NRT Public transit is the best option for getting...
Photo of the week: Christmas with the Colonel
Japan always does things a little differently and Christmas is no exception! Likely one of the world’s quirkiest holiday traditions takes place on December 24th in cities across Japan from Kyoto to Tokyo when people line up for their holiday feast of…KFC! That’s right, the traditional meal for Christmas Eve...
Photo of the week: Mount Fuji, above and beyond
100 kilometres south-west of Tokyo lies Mount Fuji – Japan’s highest mountain. An hour drive from Japan’s capital, this World Heritage Site was designated ‘cultural’ rather than ‘natural’ due to its appearance in inspired books, poems, art, and music about Japan. Climbing is a popular activity, but if trekking up...
Things to do in: Tokyo
Undeniably one of the world’s most exhilarating cities, Tokyo can be exciting, intimidating, and a little overwhelming. However, with a bit of help from our local experts, you’ll have no trouble navigating your way around and getting into the vibe of this vibrant destination. Here are our top five things...
A Local’s Guide to Arashiyama – Kyoto
I have been living in Kyoto for six months now and, as anyone who has lived in a tourist destination for long can tell you, famous sightseeing areas quickly become less and less interesting. Sure, the temple of the Golden Pavilion is breathtakingly beautiful. But after you’ve strolled around the...
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