onsen

As the largest island in Japan, Honshu offers so many small towns to be explored! Tokyo often steals the spotlight when it comes to visiting Japan; however, there are numerous small towns scattered across Honshu, each offering its own unique allure. Whether you’re drawn to ancient […]

Many people might choose to wash away their worries in the traditional Japanese onsen (hot springs), but did you know there are also 17.8 million people who go to saunas regularly as of 2024? Known as “saunners,” these sauna enthusiasts are the driving force behind an […]

In Japan, I took a bath every day at my parents' house. It warmed my cold body in winter, and it washed away the sweat and refreshed me in summer. I believe that every Japanese person loves taking baths. Also, rehydrating with chilled milk or beer […]

Imagine it’s 1300 years ago in the year 724 AD, the Nara era of Japan. You’ve heard whispers of Kinosaki, a small town nestled along the Sea of Japan. Word has it a Buddhist priest named Dochi Shonin prayed for one-thousand days in order to help […]

Famous for its natural beauty, healing hot springs, and a magnificent view of Mt. Fuji across Lake Ashinoko is Hakone, a hotspot for Japanese and international tourists who are looking to get some R&R. Located just an hour away from Tokyo, it is in Hakone that […]

KAI Kinugawa is a modern hot spring ryokan where traditional Japanese hospitality meets contemporary luxury. Situated 2 hours by train from Tokyo, this gem in the Tochigi prefecture provides the perfect get-away for those seeking a break from the fast-paced atmosphere in Tokyo. We had the […]

What do the stunning landscapes of Mt. Fuji, amazing shopping, and a relaxing onsen (japanese hot spring) experience all have in common? They’re all in the same place in Gotemba, Shizuoka. On the more refined side of visiting Japan, it’s chock full of fantastic […]

I have been working with Arigato Japan since May 2019. Sharing Japanese food and culture with people from all over the world has been the most rewarding experience.

To celebrate the last cold days of winter, this month we asked our beloved, adventurous guides Hiroe and Yuko what are their favorite places to visit during the coldest seasons in the Kansai area.