Taking a Kawagoe day trip from Tokyo is usually a second (or even third) choice.
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These Are Japan’s Best Beaches
Japan, in spite of being a country of islands, is not known for its beaches.
Continue ReadingJapan’s Best Convenience Store
Lawson vs 7-Eleven vs FamilyMart—which of Japan’s “Big 3” convenience stores is the best?
Continue ReadingThe Truth About Tea Ceremonies
Follow my practical advice—and disregard any shade I may throw while giving it.
Continue ReadingHow to See a Geisha in Kyoto
Have a successful Geisha encounter on the first try.
Continue ReadingThe Best Way to Stay Connected in Japan
When it comes to SIM card for foreigners in Japan, this is the best course of action.
Continue ReadingThe Cat Island Conundrum
If you’re a big feline fan, you might find cat island in Japan disappointing.
Continue ReadingJapan’s Paradise Beach
This Jodogahama Beach itinerary will set you on course.
Continue ReadingA Perfectly Nice Town
Is Ishinomaki worth visiting?
Continue ReadingThe Truth About Kintsugi
Want to learn kintsugi in Japan?
Continue ReadingWhy I Go So Hard for Japan’s Hydrangeas
Ajisai are every bit as Japanese as sakura.
Continue ReadingHow to Fix Japan’s “Overtourism” Problem
Is overtourism in Japan really problem—and, if so, how do we fix it?
Continue ReadingJapan’s Treasure Trail
Sanriku might just be the most authentic, enticing region in Japan.
Continue Reading30 Pictures That Will Make You Want to Visit Japan’s Sanriku Coast
I found it came fully alive only under the slow scream of fuchsia, tangerine and aubergine.
Continue ReadingThe Best Japan Road Trips
There are a million reasons to hit Japan’s open road. Thankfully, I’m only going to name five.
Continue ReadingRun With All You Have
A viper seems to be little more than a leathery bamboo shoot until the moment it sinks its fangs into you.
Continue ReadingIs Nikko Tokyo’s Best Day Trip?
Nikko is one of the easiest and most fulfilling day trips from Tokyo.
Continue ReadingKamakura Starts Here
It’s easy to rationalize Japan’s former capital as a one-and-done day trip from its current one.
Continue ReadingA Tale of Two Tourist Traps
Comparing Takayama vs Kyoto isn’t as futile as you might think.
Continue ReadingWhere to Find China in Japan
China has always been a part of Japan.
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