Japan, a country often characterized by its deep-seated traditions and public reserve, is quietly, and loudly, undergoing a Rainbow Renaissance. On the streets of Shinjuku Nichome, and increasingly across mainstream media, LGBTQ+ life is visible and celebrated. We sat down with some of Japan’s most influential […]
283. This is the number of bakeries in Kyoto. The city is known for closely following Kobe for the title of the biggest bread-consuming city in Japan. If you visit Kyoto, you will likely find a Bakery on every corner, with a distinct personality for each […]
Tokyo Disneyland and DisneySea are famous spots among locals and tourists, located in Urayasu, Chiba Prefecture, just outside central Tokyo. Over the years, they have become one of the most visited Disney destinations globally, known for their exclusive attractions, restaurants, and immersive shows and programs that […]
Some of you might remember the famous Kawaii Monster Café, which sadly closed a few years ago. Well… It’s back! But reimagined in an even bigger and more immersive way! Kawaii Monster Land officially opened in February 2026, bringing back that same surreal, colorful world, but […]
When travelers think of temple stays in Japan, famous destinations like Koyasan often come to mind. Yet tucked away in the mountains of Yamanashi Prefecture lies Minobusan, a place steeped in deep spiritual history and beauty. For more than 550 years, Kakurinbo has welcomed pilgrims and […]
Osaka, which has long been celebrated as the capital of Japanese cuisine, offers so much more than just takoyaki and okonomiyaki. Its bakery scene features an extraordinary blend of traditional Japanese breads and European techniques, ranging from flaky croissants to curry‑filled buns. Whether you're traveling for […]
Last September, I visited Shizuoka with our team as part of our Heroes of Suruga storytelling videos project. What I expected was a simple filming trip; instead, I found a town full of heart. Before shoots, I wandered into small local shops, chatted with shop owners, […]
Tokyo is the capital city of Japan, with a massive population of around 14 million people. Within Tokyo Prefecture, there are numerous widely recognized downtown areas worth exploring to enjoy the culture, tradition, and values of the nation. The capital is celebrated for its reliable and […]
In the heart of Osaka, we’ve found a creative spirit who is offering a fresh perspective on what it means to engage with Japanese culture. Zane Johnson, the founder of GZO Experience, has built something truly special: a hub where local artistry and modern style live […]
Every country has its signature drink: vodka in Russia, tequila in Mexico, and wine in France. For Japan, the first word that probably comes to mind is sake. But actually, the correct word is nihonshu (日本酒), which literally means “Japanese alcohol”. Here’s a fun twist: in […]
