Stories from Japan
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Destinations, food, culture and travel wisdom from the TokudAw team
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Fall destinations in Japan
Japan’s fall colors are both vibrant reds and yellows, that typically come in a wave between the ginko trees and the maple trees giving visitors ample time to explore nature from October through to December. This post explores different destinations of Japan’s beauty through our social media posts.
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.
How Can You Plan a Relaxing Honeymoon in Japan?
If you're planning a honeymoon in Japan, it's tempting to see as many cities as you can. But changing hotels every day or two wears you out faster than you'd expect.
With one or two weeks, we recommend a few days in Tokyo, two or three nights in an onsen area, then on to Kyoto or Osaka. Hakone, Mishima and the Izu area are good places to break the journey between Tokyo and Kansai: hot springs, Mt Fuji, good food and a bit of local culture.
What’s the Best Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto Itinerary for 7 Days?
The best 7-day Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto itinerary covers Japan’s three most iconic cities without feeling rushed. This golden route includes each city’s major highlights, while leaving room for lesser-known stops and locations.
How to Best Utilise the Indy Pass in Japan? A 2026 Guide to Hidden Power Gems & Unmatched Cultural Pass
How to experience the most Japan while skiing at Indy Pass resorts in Japan. TokudAw’s list of recommended accommodations, regional cuisine, and experiences across every Indy Pass resort cluster in Japan.
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.
Romantic and Relaxing Couple’s Honeymoon Getaway
Romantic getaway to the mountains of Shizouka for a newlywed couple, couple on their honeymoon, anniversary, or vowel renewal.
Best of Japan’s Manga and Anime Itinerary
One day sight-seeing itineraries for Japan’s most popular Anime and Manga series.
Japan: An itinerary for the crafter and textile lover
An in-depth itinerary for those who want to explore the art, textiles, and crafts of Japanese culture – both current and modern.
Japow chaser’s itinerary for deep culture and riding
Itinerary for Japow lovers to build bespoke high-performance gear with local Japanese artisans in Niigata and shred Japow with elite guides.
Snow Discovery Itinerary
Discover Japan’s world famous snow through this short itinerary designed for families or people who want to play in the snow in a region somewhat close to Tokyo, Niigata. Perfect for those who may have never experienced snow, travelers who seek an alternative education-based travel, or just like to learn.
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.
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.
Hakuba vs. Niseko which is better? The "Logistics Reality Check" for Families
The article provides a "logistics reality check" for families deciding between Japan’s two premier ski destinations: Hakuba and Niseko. Rather than focusing on snow quality, it highlights the physical challenges of the "last mile" travel and how private charters can alleviate them.
Tokyo to Hakone: An easy, fun day trip with a private car
Just one and a half hours away from Tokyo, Hakone is a beautiful city on the side of Lake Ashi and surrounded by rolling mountains and onsen (hot springs). The city offers a variety of sights, from museums to cruises, all with a beautiful backdrop of Japan’s natural landscape. With so much to do, here’s TokudAw’s guide to a perfect day exploring Hakone.
Japan snow season from Kyoto and Osaka to Hakuba
If you’re planning on travelling from the Kansai region (most often Osaka or Kyoto) to Hakuba for snow season, booking with a private transportation company is the best way to go to ensure a safe, comfortable journey for all. At TokudAw, we combine our travel agency expertise with our in-house private transit to offer you a special, authentic journey filled with rich local experiences you can’t get on a regular trip.
From the Narita or Haneda Airport to the Nagano snow resorts
Make every step of your trip in Japan worth it with TokudAw’s private transport services available from key locations to snow resorts in Honshu closest to Tokyo.