Stories from Japan
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Destinations, food, culture and travel wisdom from the TokudAw team
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A journey into Japan’s Olympic past
A barrier-free museum with interactive Games, rich history, perfect for a rainy day or a hot summer day in Tokyo.
The Olympic Museum Tokyo opened 14th September 2019. The museum is host to a wide range of exhibits ranging from multimedia galleries, interactive athletic simulators and historical memorabilia. The museum covers the Summer and Winter Olympics hosted in Tokyo, Nagano and Sapporo games.
Destinations near Tokyo
Relaxing destinations near Tokyo that are within a short 2-3 hour drive and make a great 1-2 day trip destination, perfect for a private car hire to handle the logistics.
6 Reasons to Book a Private Car To and From Tokyo Disney Resort
Planning a trip to Tokyo Disneyland or Tokyo DisneySea? This article explores six reasons why TokudAw LITE’s private car transportation is worth considering over public transportation or taxi to Tokyo Disney Resort.
Is it Easy to Navigate Japanese Theme Parks as a Neurodivergent Traveler?
Tokyo Disney Resort's Disability Access Service (DAS), Universal Studios Japan's Guest Support Pass, and LEGOLAND Japan's Assisted Access Pass all let you skip the physical queue by reserving a return time instead. Sanrio Puroland works a little differently, allowing priority entry to some attractions. All programs require in-person registration and an original physical disability certificate. Including a quick table summary of how these different theme parks compare.
The Ultimate Japan Travel Guide for Japanese Media Lovers
For millions around the world, Japan represents not only their dream destination, but a piece of themselves as they’ve grown strong emotional connections to Japan through Japanese media and culture. Japan is the land of characters, stories, and imaginative worlds of animation, games, and film. These pieces of media have shaped and changed the world for the better, inspiring creativity, shaping childhoods, and connected people across cultural borders. From the children watching Pokémon and exchanging cards to the teenagers dancing to Japanese dream pop songs to the adults watching Tarentino’s Kill Bill in theaters, Japan’s pop culture has been woven into the fabric of global life.
What to do at Japanese Cruise Ports-of-Call
Sample transportation itineraries at common ports-of-call for passenger cruise ships in Japan.
The Ultimate Tropical Trip: Okinawa
Itinerary for Okinawa including historic stops, one of the largest aquariums in the world, dramatic nature landscapes and iconic locations for shopping.
The Secret Spots of Japan’s Snow Country Winter
Explore Japan’s snow country on the slopes and off: This itinerary will take you from from Nagano and Niigata to Gunma, through tunnels, onsen towns, and over the mountains.
Ultimate Itinerary for Mountains and Art in Japan
An itinerary for those who wish to travel into nature, away from Japan’s most crowded areas, while also experiencing art.
Best of Japan’s Manga and Anime Itinerary
One day sight-seeing itineraries for Japan’s most popular Anime and Manga series.
“What Did Life Look Like When You Were My Age?” A Family Discussion Guide For Multigenerational Groups Exploring Japan
There will come a day when a memory goes from a moment you keep on a shelf to a living, breathing thing to share and pay forward. This is the day you experience the gift of multigenerational travel, being able to see Japan through the eyes of your children or grandchildren, building upon the memories this beautiful place has previously birthed.
Is Yomiuriland Worth Visiting? Everything You Need to Know Before You Go
Looking for a fun day trip from Tokyo? Yomiuriland offers exciting rides, seasonal events, family-friendly attractions, and beautiful illuminations, making it a great destination for visitors of all ages.
What Are the Best STEAM Activities for Families Visiting Japan?
Discover the best STEAM activities for families visiting Japan. From hands on science and technology to traditional arts and engineering, learn while exploring some of Japan's most fascinating destinations.
What Are the Most Popular Day Trips From Tokyo? Top 5 Kanto Tours for First-Time Visitors
The Kanto region offers some of the best day trips from Tokyo, combining iconic landmarks, cultural experiences, nature, history, and modern attractions. From Mount Fuji and Hakone to Nikko, Kamakura, and Tokyo's top sightseeing spots, these five popular tours help first-time visitors experience the best of Japan without the stress of planning transportation and logistics on their own.
Tokyo’s Early Bloom: Where to See Sakura in Mid-March 2026
Visiting Tokyo in mid-March? You don’t have to wait for the main season to see cherry blossoms. Our latest guide covers the best early-blooming spots for 2026, including the Kawazu-zakura at Tokyo Skytree, the spiritual charms of Sakura Jingu, and the 'Flower and Light' movement at Kiba Park. Experience the magic of spring without the peak-season rush.
A Day in Harajuku: Beyond Meiji Jingu and Takeshita Street
Think you know Harajuku? Beyond the neon signs of Takeshita Street and the towering torii gates of Meiji Jingu lies a neighborhood of quiet charms and hidden creative hubs. Join us for a curated stroll through the 'other' Harajuku—where we start the morning with a touch of Sanrio-themed tradition at Togo Shrine, get lost in the innovative art of CAS:SPACE, and hunt for the perfect waterproof souvenir at B-SIDE LABEL.
From the whimsical feline world of the mofusand flagship store to a breathtakingly elegant finale at Haute Couture Omotesando, this itinerary is for the traveler who seeks a balance of playful pop culture and refined relaxation. Step off the beaten path with us and discover why Harajuku remains Tokyo’s most surprising district.
Why Flexible Itineraries Create the Best Japan Memories
Traveling to Japan shouldn't feel like a race against the clock. At TokudAw, we believe the best memories happen when you have the freedom to change your mind. From outsmarting the clouds at Mt. Fuji to slowing down for a tired toddler, discover how our flexible, chauffeur-led itineraries turn potential travel stress into the highlight of your journey.
From Gardens to Baths: The Scientist’s Guide to help you get over jet lag when arriving in Japan
Jet lag is more than just exhaustion; it is a physiological state of circadian desynchrony. While light is a well-known "time-giver," new research in gastroenterology and physiology reveals that your digestive system is a powerful tool for resetting your brain. This article explores how to use targeted protein intake, strategic meal timing, and Japanese probiotic-rich foods to cut your jet lag recovery time in half, ensuring you spend less time in bed and more time exploring.
Rental Car vs. Hiring a Private Driver: 5 Things Nobody Tells You About Winter Driving in Japan
"While a winter road trip through Japan's Alps sounds romantic, the reality of 'Black Ice,' white-outs, and frozen mountain passes can turn a holiday into a high-stress ordeal. In this expert guide, we break down the technical dangers of winter driving—backed by official safety standards from the Japan Automobile Federation (JAF) and the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism (MLIT). Discover the 'TokudAw Difference' and why our professional drivers are the key to a safe, relaxing, and truly inclusive family ski vacation."
Six traditional Japanese games to enjoy with the family this travel season
Travelling can be a great way to not only sight-see and tour famous destinations, but also to experience and connect with local cultures throughout the world.
We all grow up playing with different toys, and Japan is home to so many unique and special games suited for children all the way to adults.