
Spring in Japan is inseparable from cherry blossoms, known as sakura (桜). Their fleeting beauty marks a season of quiet excitement, reflection, and renewal. In celebration of this moment, Blue Bottle Coffee Japan is welcoming spring with their new Special Blue Bottle Sakura Collection, launching nationwide […]

Important reminder: We know cherry blossoms are mesmerizing, but at Arigato Travel, we kindly ask that you please don’t pick the petals or shake the sakura branches to take photos. There are plenty of lovely ways to capture beautiful pictures without harming or disturbing the trees. […]

One of Japan’s most compelling natural spectacles is the cherry blossom (sakura), which blooms annually in late March and early April. While Japan boasts countless locations to see these flowers, the massive influx of tourists can make it difficult to enjoy the view without navigating dense […]

It’s that time of year once again! Springtime is approaching faster than you think, and meteorology companies across Japan, including the Japan Meteorological Agency, have begun releasing their first forecasts for the cherry blossoms of this year. Hanami viewing has always held a very special place […]

Everyone knows about Japan’s biggest breweries: Sapporo, Suntory, Kirin, and Asahi. These brands are extremely popular in Japan among locals and tourists alike. But have you heard of a miso lager or a wasabi beer? Many breweries across the country are infusing local ingredients into their […]

Have you ever heard the Japanese word Anaba (穴場)? Anaba is used to describe a “hidden gem” or “off-the-beaten-path” place where it may not be one of the most famous, but still, it is so beautiful and unique that it’s worth a visit. It is commonly […]

Osaka is a big city whose unique blend of urban, cultural, and edible delights has made it a perennial favorite amongst travelers both within and outside of Japan. So, you know it's saying something when we propose that April might be the perfect month to experience […]

April is a transition from spring to early summer for Japan. Mild and pleasant weather makes cherry blossoms bloom and crowds gather and enjoy picnics under the trees. Whilst there are warm days in most regions, occasional rain and cool evenings remind us of the end […]

In Japan, the country’s beloved cherry blossoms are in full bloom between the end of March and the beginning of May. During this period, crowds gather together to hold a party like none other under the sakura trees. This tradition, known as “hanami” (flower viewing in […]

While February saw a glimpse of the plum blossoms beginning to bloom in Osaka, late March is forecasted to see the start of Japan’s stunning cherry blossoms, painting the city and the parks pink. You may notice the weather is starting to be less chilly, but […]