
When you think of “autumn” and “food,” what kinds of meals or ingredients would come to mind for you? You might think of parsnips, butternut squash or pumpkins, maybe even cooking a pumpkin pie using your Halloween leftovers. Or in terms of fruit, maybe apples & […]

Summer, adorned in robes of the ocean’s blue and the glittering gold of festive fireworks, stands ready as it awaits the changing of the seasonal guard. From the glint of his right eye appears Autumn, eloquently cloaked in the brilliant scarlets and ambers of fiery fall […]

Across the world, each season paints the landscape with its own mood and meaning. In Europe, we often connect the seasons not only with changing colors and shifting atmospheres, but even with music. Who hasn’t tried to guess which melody in Antonio Vivaldi’s magnificent The Four […]

Here in Japan, autumn invites us to slow down and notice change—the hush of a temple garden after rain, the warmth of tea between our palms, the quiet joy of a red maple leaf against a slate sky. At Arigato Travel, we see travel as a […]

As the crisp air and vibrant foliage of autumn sweep across the Northern Hemisphere, a culinary treasure emerges from the forest floor: the matsutake mushroom. Revered for centuries in East Asia, particularly in Japan, this wild mushroom is more than just a seasonal ingredient. It is […]

In Japan, as a harbinger of autumn, kaki seem to conjure up thoughts of all the delicious foods to come with the season. There are two main types of persimmon available almost everywhere in Japan.

November is a great time to be in Osaka, a vibrant city that blends contemporary lifestyles with rich cultural heritage. While the autumn foliage may come a bit later than usual to Osaka this year, the city’s bustling energy, traditional festivals, evening fireworks, and spectacular cuisine […]

Sake. Smooth, simple, elegant. With its notoriety and worldwide acclaim, this sophisticated fermented rice wine can be argued as Japan’s national alcohol. For all those who’ve given it a try and now proudly call themselves fans of this delicious beverage, we have something in store for […]

October is a wonderful time to explore the vibrant city of Osaka, which offers a rich mix of cultural events, seasonal activities, and of course, fantastic food! Whether you’re into festivals, food tours, or simply enjoying autumn in Japan, Osaka has plenty to offer. Here’s a […]

Osaka, also known as the “Kitchen of Japan,” is a vibrant city known for its rich culture, delicious street food, and lively atmosphere. The city has a lot going for it, especially in September, when the summer heat begins to mellow down, and the slight autumn […]