

While most summer festivals in Japan are lively, colorful, and full of noise, such as fireworks or rambunctious conversations, not all of them hold these same sentiments and festivities. Every September in Nara, a summer festival takes place across the Sarusawa Lake to appease the spirit […]

Rice is not just a staple food in Japan. It is deeply intertwined with the nation’s history, traditions, and daily life. The journey from seed to bowl reflects centuries of care, skill, and reverence for nature. In this post, you’ll discover how rice is harvested in […]

Tokyo is known for having the most Michelin stars in the world, but what about its street food? Alongside its ultra-luxury, high-end dining scene, Tokyo boasts some of the highest-quality street food on the planet, making it a true foodie’s paradise. Whether you are in the […]

Kyoto has once again earned international recognition, cementing its place as one of the world's most beloved travel destinations. In the 2026 Travel + Leisure World’s Best Awards, the historic city was named the No. 1 Best City in Asia and the No. 2 Best City […]

Planning a trip to Shiga? You’re in for something special. Set beside Japan’s largest lake, this underrated destination blends peaceful nature, rich culture, and just the right amount of adventure. But before you start picturing lakeside sunsets and cycling routes, there are a few things that […]

If you’re planning a trip to Tokyo in early autumn 2026, one of the most atmospheric and joyful cultural experiences you can enjoy is Asakusa Kaminarimon Bon Odori. This beloved event blends traditional Japanese festival culture with the vibrant energy of Tokyo’s historic Asakusa district. It’s […]

When summer arrives in Japan, evenings turn into something almost cinematic. The days are long and lively, but as twilight falls, the air cools just enough to invite people outside again. It doesn’t matter if you’re in Kyoto, Tokyo, or a countryside town along the coast, […]

Join us for a chat with DeeJay, our Finance Operations Lead, who keeps things running smoothly behind the scenes at Arigato Travel. Originally from the Philippines, DeeJay holds an MBA and handles our day-to-day financial operations with steady, approachable expertise. In this interview, he shares how […]

Summer in Kyoto is hot, really hot! But when the sun goes down, the ancient capital transforms into a magical wonderland. The heat fades away, and the city lights up with incredible night events that you just have to see. I've picked some amazing summer night […]

You know summer has begun in Japan once people start to wear yukata. As festival season approaches, evenings start to feel extra special. Streets glow with lanterns, the scent of grilled food from nearby stalls, and of course the colorful yukata and the signature clack clack […]