Our Blog Posts

Indigo blue and the dyeing process (Aizome) are such an instrumental part of traditional Japanese culture that I never once doubted that they originated in the country. However, I later learned that Japan actually learnt it from China in the 7th century, and that it had actually started in India long before that. And never ever thought it was related to American blue jeans, through West Africa, where they also learned how to dye from India. Never thought the beautiful colors were loved by...

February in Tokyo is a quiet gem. The New Year crowds have faded, winter skies are crisp and clear, and the city settles into a calmer rhythm that rewards curious travelers. You will find seasonal traditions, early signs of spring, and fewer lines at major attractions. If you enjoy culture, food, and atmosphere as much as sightseeing, February is an excellent time to explore Tokyo.

If you’ve ever dined out in Japan, you may have been surprised when a small dish appears at your table before you order, then shows up on the bill later. This is otoshi, a common custom in Japanese restaurants, especially izakaya. Unlike complimentary tea or towels, otoshi is a small appetizer you don’t choose and don’t order, but it’s automatically included in the charge. For first-time visitors, it can feel confusing, so in this article we break down why otoshi exists and what kind of...

Wakayama Farm in Utsunomiya City is where bamboo and chestnuts are more than crops, they’re a living tradition. Set against the Nikko mountain range, this family-run farm spans 24 hectares and is one of Japan’s largest bamboo farms, rooted in natural, circular farming practices. Visitors can enjoy hands-on experiences like bamboo crafting, seasonal shoot harvesting, illuminated bamboo groves, and matcha served in bamboo cups. Join us as we speak with Taro Wakayama, owner and CEO, to explore...

Spring in Japan is inseparable from cherry blossoms, known as sakura (桜). Their fleeting beauty marks a season of quiet excitement, reflection, and renewal. In celebration of this moment, Blue Bottle Coffee Japan is welcoming spring with their new Special Blue Bottle Sakura Collection, launching nationwide on March 5, 2026. Available at Blue Bottle Coffee cafes across Japan and through the official online store, this limited-time collection blends coffee craftsmanship with seasonal elegance.

We’re back with our guide series and we are super excited to introduce you to Miyuki San, one of our lovely and talented tour guides in Hiroshima. Awarded the honor of “DECEMBER 2023 Guide of the Month,” Miyuki San is an enthusiastic guide, and with her amazing help, we have grown our Hiroshima guide team from 2 to 6 guides. So, if you are booking a tour with us in the city, make sure to request her, we’re positive you’ll love it!

Your day may have just started, but there’s already a buzz of excitement in the air, and for good reason: you’ve finally arrived in Kyoto, at the heart of hanami season, and you just know it’s going to be an unforgettable one. Dive into today’s blog and follow our one-day itinerary to make the most of this magical time of year while soaking up every moment of your trip!

Without a doubt, Kyoto is one of the most popular travel destinations in Japan. This city offers a compelling mix of culture and stunning landscapes, giving visitors a peek into the origins of many Japanese traditions. While it remains true to its ancient roots, Kyoto has also evolved to embrace modern trends, especially when it comes to plant-based dining. Today, it is a must-visit destination not only for traditional Japanese cuisine but also for vegan travelers. Here are five outstanding...

KAI Kinugawa is a modern hot spring ryokan where traditional Japanese hospitality meets contemporary luxury. Situated 2 hours by train from Tokyo, this gem in the Tochigi prefecture provides the perfect get-away for those seeking a break from the fast-paced atmosphere in Tokyo. We had the pleasure of speaking with KAI Kinugawa to learn more about this cozy retreat.

Japan’s winter cuisine offers a comforting warmth that brings people together, with dishes like nabe and sukiyaki often enjoyed as a shared meal at the center of the table. Street-side favorites, such as oden and regional specialties like curry soup, provide hearty flavors that ward off the chill during the colder months. For a lighter yet soothing option, ochazuke embodies the comfort and simplicity of Japanese cooking. Here is your guide to the top Japanese foods to keep you warm this...

When we think of Japanese art inspired by nature, ikebana or sumi-e often come to mind. But there’s another, lesser-known form that blends scientific observation with quiet beauty: Botanical Painting. Based in Tokyo, Botany Painting invites people to reconnect with nature by creating artworks from carefully pressed leaves, celebrating each plant’s individuality. We spoke with the team behind Botany Painting to learn more about their philosophy, creative process, and how this calming art form...

Every year on February 11, Japan observes National Foundation Day, a public holiday dedicated to reflecting on the country’s origins, history, and cultural identity. Known in Japanese as Kenkoku Kinen no Hi (建国記念の日, National Foundation Day), this quiet yet meaningful holiday offers insight into how Japan understands its beginnings and its enduring sense of nationhood. While the day is not marked by large festivals or fireworks, it carries deep historical and symbolic importance. For...

February in Osaka is far from a quiet month. As the chill of winter begins to soften, the city awakens with a vibrant tapestry of ancient traditions, cutting-edge art, and captivating performances. If you’re planning a visit to Japan’s culinary capital during this time, get ready to dive into unique cultural experiences that blend the old with the new. Here’s your guide to making the most of Osaka’s February 2026 highlights, focusing on the events you won’t want to miss!

February in Kyoto is a season of quiet beauty. The city slows after the New Year rush, temples feel more contemplative, and winter adds a poetic stillness to the historic streets and gardens. Crisp air, occasional snowfall, and seasonal traditions make this one of the most rewarding months for travelers who enjoy culture, history, and a calmer pace. Below is a thorough guide to what you can experience in Kyoto in February 2026, from iconic landmarks to winter-only events and foods that shine...

February in Japan is deep winter, crisp air, quiet mornings, and steam rising from warm cups of tea. Along temple paths, the first ume (plum blossoms) bloom, delicate symbols of hope, resilience, and gentle strength. A month for reflection and self-care, February carries the wisdom of patience, even a cold stone warms with time. These February travel affirmations invite you to move slowly, tend what matters, and hold steady as winter begins to soften toward spring.