Spring has already started in Japan. It is probably one of the well-loved seasons in the country for most areas are not only blanketed by pink flowers but there are also many traditional celebrations. These events are pretty exciting and lively with fun performances, sakura-flavored snacks, and enjoyable booths. If you happen to be in…

Kyoto Station (京都駅) is a major transportation hub, especially for foreign tourists who come to Japan. It is a terminal station housed in one of Japan’s biggest buildings, and it consists of numerous shinkansen (bullet trains; 新幹線), buses, trains and other types of transportation. Besides this, it has numerous restaurants, shops, and other facilities. If…

Ball games are popular all around the world and Japan is no exception. During the Heian Period (9th till 12th century AD) a non-competitive sport known as ‘kemari’ was extremely popular. It was so popular that it has even been revived in the modern times. The objective of the game is to have the ball…

Spring has finally arrived. Did you miss the opportunity to see the plum blossoms this year, just before spring’s arrival? Have you thought about where to have your plum trees viewing in Japan for next year? If you haven’t yet, then I suggest you head to Kansai region which is considered to be the cultural…

Yuru-chara (ゆるキャラ) are mascot characters which are used to promote pretty much everything in Japan. These mascots are all over the place, promoting everything from cities and regions to products, chains and restaurants. Even the Immigration Bureau of Japan has its own cute character. Since 2010, there has been a yearly Yuru-chara Grand Prix to…

Since Buddhism came to Japan by way of the Silk Route it has permeated the Japanese way of life. Although most Japanese people are very hesitant in committing themselves to a particular religion, it is clear that Buddhism is one of the two predominating religions, as you can see many Buddha statues all over the…

Japan has plenty of festivals and almost every other day, there is something or the other happening in Japan. It makes us think Japanese culture is truly a culture of celebration. Japanese festivals are often based around an event with food stalls, entertainment and carnival games to keep everyone entertained. Usually, they are based around…

Kaki, better known as Persimmons to those from the West, grow everywhere in Japan. For those who don’t know much about this fruit, it has a sweet, rich flavor and a soft texture. There are many kinds of kaki which can grow in Japan’s moderate climate. This fruit can be eaten by itself, but can…

Spring is a time of renewal, it heralds the end of a cold winter with the promise of new life for nature. In spring Japan really comes alive, hanami parties and cherry blossom viewing is a national past-time at this time of year. However hanami is not the only event that you can see in…