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Featured image for Meet Jessica: The Marketing Mind Helping You Discover Authentic Japan

Meet Jessica: The Marketing Mind Helping You Discover Authentic Japan

Jan 11, 2026
BY Kristian Robinson

Born in Paris but with a heart fully captivated by Japan, Jessica brings her passion for Japanese culture, music, and food to life as Arigato Travel’s Marketing, Sales, and Business Development Director. After over six years in the gaming industry, she courageously left it all behind […]

Featured image for 12 Spots You Can’t Miss This Winter Season in Japan!

12 Spots You Can’t Miss This Winter Season in Japan!

Jan 10, 2026
BY Jarl Arciaga

Japan is a country known for offering its own uniqueness in each of its four seasons! While cherry blossoms bloom in Spring, festivals fill the streets in Summer, and the fall foliage appears in Autumn, the Winter months of Japan provide beautiful landscapes and special experiences […]

Featured image for Flowers in Japan Throughout the Year

Flowers in Japan Throughout the Year

Jan 9, 2026
BY Nadia Moawwad

Japan is a country that truly celebrates the changing of seasons, and nothing reflects this more beautifully than its flowers. From cherry blossoms in spring to bright chrysanthemums in autumn, each season has its own floral charm. Whether you’re visiting gardens, temples, or just strolling through […]

Featured image for Exploring Shikoku: Trains, Culture, and Timeless Traditions

Exploring Shikoku: Trains, Culture, and Timeless Traditions

Jan 8, 2026
BY Brad Stephens

Shikoku (四国), an island comprising four prefectures, is a treasure trove of natural beauty, rich traditions, and unique culinary experiences. Often overlooked by travelers rushing between Tokyo and Kyoto, Shikoku offers an authentic Japanese journey where history, culture, and nature seamlessly intertwine. From scenic train rides […]

Featured image for Seven Herb Rice Porridge: A Gentle Start to the New Year

Seven Herb Rice Porridge: A Gentle Start to the New Year

Jan 7, 2026
BY Brad Stephens

Every year on January 7, households across Japan enjoy a warm bowl of Nanakusa-gayu (七草がゆ, seven herb rice porridge). This simple, soothing dish is part of a long-standing tradition meant to bring good health for the year ahead. Although the ingredients are humble, the meaning behind […]

Featured image for A Fresh Take on a Timeless Tea: Interview with Senchado Tokyo

A Fresh Take on a Timeless Tea: Interview with Senchado Tokyo

Jan 6, 2026
BY Nadia Moawwad

When many people think of Japanese tea, the vibrant green powder of matcha often comes to mind. It’s a symbol of traditional ceremonies and a popular flavor worldwide. However, the world of Japanese tea is far richer and more diverse. Deep within this culture is sencha, […]

Featured image for Sushi Zanmai takes the lead again! Tokyo’s First Tuna Auction of 2026 Makes Headlines

Sushi Zanmai takes the lead again! Tokyo’s First Tuna Auction of 2026 Makes Headlines

Jan 5, 2026
BY Lauren Shannon

Every January, Tokyo rings in the New Year with one of its most dramatic culinary rituals: the ceremonial first tuna auction. Held at Toyosu Market, this event is far more than a wholesale transaction. It is a symbol of prosperity, pride, and Japan’s deep reverence for […]

Featured image for Easing Through Immigration with Japan’s Visit Japan Web Service

Easing Through Immigration with Japan’s Visit Japan Web Service

Jan 5, 2026
BY Christian Bur

Are you planning a trip to Japan? If so, there’s one essential step that you’ll want to know about before you go: the Visit Japan Web service. This user-friendly online platform streamlines procedures for immigration, customs, and quarantine entry requirements. Whether you’re visiting Japan for the […]

Featured image for Crate Digging Across Japan: Tokyo, Osaka & Kyoto Record Shops You Can’t Miss

Crate Digging Across Japan: Tokyo, Osaka & Kyoto Record Shops You Can’t Miss

Jan 4, 2026
BY Hallie Garett

If you love vinyl, Japan will without a doubt serve as your playground. Whether you're a die-hard collector or just dipping your toes into the world of crate digging, this country is absolutely overflowing with shops stuffed full of everything from new releases to rare finds […]

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 […]

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