Bamboo forest image

Arigato Travel Weblog

View Our Latest Posts

Featured image for Uneme: A Somber Summer Festival

Uneme: A Somber Summer Festival

Aug 27, 2026
BY Natalie Burnes

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 […]

Featured image for Rice Harvesting in Japan: A Hands-On Cultural Journey

Rice Harvesting in Japan: A Hands-On Cultural Journey

Aug 26, 2026
BY Brad Stephens

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 […]

Featured image for Eat Through Tokyo: Where to find the best Street Food in the city

Eat Through Tokyo: Where to find the best Street Food in the city

Aug 23, 2026
BY Jessica Waybright

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 […]

Featured image for Kyoto Named Asia’s Best City in the Travel + Leisure World’s Best Awards 2026

Kyoto Named Asia’s Best City in the Travel + Leisure World’s Best Awards 2026

Aug 22, 2026
BY Brad Stephens

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 […]

Featured image for 10 NEW THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE VISITING SHIGA

10 NEW THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE VISITING SHIGA

Aug 21, 2026
BY Maria Diaz

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 […]

Featured image for Let’s Go Series: Asakusa Kaminarimon Bon Odori  (2026 Edition)

Let’s Go Series: Asakusa Kaminarimon Bon Odori (2026 Edition)

Aug 20, 2026
BY Brad Stephens

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 […]

Featured image for HOW TO ENJOY SUMMER EVENINGS IN JAPAN

HOW TO ENJOY SUMMER EVENINGS IN JAPAN

Aug 19, 2026
BY Maria Diaz

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, […]

Featured image for From Anime Lessons to Team Leadership: Our Finance Lead DeeJay

From Anime Lessons to Team Leadership: Our Finance Lead DeeJay

Aug 18, 2026
BY Kristian Robinson

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 […]

Featured image for BEST OF KYOTO SUMMER NIGHTS

BEST OF KYOTO SUMMER NIGHTS

Aug 17, 2026
BY Maria Diaz

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 […]

Featured image for Yukata 101: The Ultimate Guide to Japan’s Iconic Summer Outfit

Yukata 101: The Ultimate Guide to Japan’s Iconic Summer Outfit

Aug 11, 2026
BY Isis McDowell

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 […]

Arigato Travel Logo
Land Operator and Tokyo Metropolitan Government Registered Travel Agency No. 2-8620
TripAdvisor Certificate of Excellence, Traveler's Choice
Accreditation Reference Badges

Get A Taste Of Japan!

Join our global community and receive seasonal newsletter for travel tips local discoveries and limited time offers