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Featured image for What to Pack for Traveling during the Winter in Japan

What to Pack for Traveling during the Winter in Japan

Jan 3, 2026
BY Maria Diaz

Winter in Japan offers an enchanting mix of snowy landscapes, steamy hot springs, and cozy cultural experiences. Whether you’re heading north to Hokkaido’s powder snow, exploring Kyoto’s quiet temples dusted with frost, or strolling through Tokyo’s glittering winter illuminations, each region offers a different side of […]

Featured image for 6 TOP TRAVEL TRENDS FOR JAPAN IN 2026 from ARIGATO TRAVEL

6 TOP TRAVEL TRENDS FOR JAPAN IN 2026 from ARIGATO TRAVEL

Jan 2, 2026
BY Maria Diaz

Tourism in Japan has been reaching new heights with record-breaking momentum. But, after the excitement of the Osaka World Expo 2025, many are wondering what 2026 will bring. Experts say it will be a turning point, shifting from simply attracting visitors to helping them connect more […]

Featured image for Japan 2026 National Holidays: Important Dates for the New Year

Japan 2026 National Holidays: Important Dates for the New Year

Jan 1, 2026
BY Chloe Hughes

In a land of culture and history, it’s no surprise that you can find, attend, and indulge in incredible celebrations all year long and all across Japan. 2026 is certainly no different; in fact, we are even welcoming back Silver Week, with a special extra holiday […]

Featured image for First Light, Fresh Pages: 31 Mindful Japan-Inspired Affirmations for January

First Light, Fresh Pages: 31 Mindful Japan-Inspired Affirmations for January

Dec 31, 2025
BY Lauren Shannon

January in Japan feels like a clean sheet of paper. Dawn comes crisp and blue, temple bells carry through the cold air, and kitchens glow with the comfort of simmering broths and bright citrus. It’s a month for beginnings—gentle, intentional, and grounded in values. We watch […]

Featured image for JAPAN NEW YEAR’S GUIDE: WHAT YOU CAN DO

JAPAN NEW YEAR’S GUIDE: WHAT YOU CAN DO

Dec 30, 2025
BY Maria Diaz

New Year's is one of the most exciting days of the year. Each country has its own unique way of celebrating, shaped by its religion, culture, and traditions. Some even continue celebrating in the days following New Year’s Eve, as is the case in Japan. New […]

Featured image for Setouchi Lemon: The Citrus Gem of Hiroshima

Setouchi Lemon: The Citrus Gem of Hiroshima

Dec 30, 2025
BY Kristina Kobuke

When visiting the Setouchi area in Japan, what’s the first thing you think of? Beaches? Okonomiyaki? Hot springs? While these options may all be popular in this region, the first thing that comes to mind for many people is the Setouchi lemon. This is a type […]

Featured image for THINGS TO DO IN TOKYO IN JANUARY 2026

THINGS TO DO IN TOKYO IN JANUARY 2026

Dec 29, 2025
BY Stella Masson

The New Year has officially begun! January is a month of celebration, new resolutions, and promises for ourselves. And for that, the first month of the year does not lack in entertainment and cultural events to start the year on a fine note, especially in Japan's […]

Featured image for Cherry Blossom Forecast 2026: Sakura Trees to Bloom Early This Year!

Cherry Blossom Forecast 2026: Sakura Trees to Bloom Early This Year!

Dec 29, 2025
BY Chloe Hughes

It’s that time of year once again! Springtime is approaching faster than you think, and meteorology companies across Japan, including the Japan Meteorological Agency, have begun releasing their first forecasts for the cherry blossoms of this year. Hanami viewing has always held a very special place […]

Featured image for Things to Do in Kyoto in January 2026

Things to Do in Kyoto in January 2026

Dec 28, 2025
BY Natalie Hung

January transforms Kyoto into a city of serene beauty and deep cultural significance, marking the transition from the cold embrace of the winter solstice to the new year. From joining the masses for Hatsumode at iconic shrines to seeking out mesmerizing art, this month offers unique […]

Featured image for Things to Do in Osaka in January 2026

Things to Do in Osaka in January 2026

Dec 27, 2025
BY Brad Stephens

January in Osaka is crisp, festive, and full of contrasts. The New Year sets a reflective tone across the city, while bright illuminations, lively festivals, and indulgent winter sweets keep the atmosphere cheerful and warm. From centuries-old temple rituals to cutting-edge immersive art, Osaka in January […]

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