Stories from Japan
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Destinations, food, culture and travel wisdom from the TokudAw team
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Best of Japan’s Manga and Anime Itinerary
One day sight-seeing itineraries for Japan’s most popular Anime and Manga series.
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 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.
Where to find the best matcha in Japan
Matcha isn’t just a health fad here, it’s part of daily life—and it has been for centuries. From ancient tea ceremonies to modern ice cream shops, Japanese matcha shows up in ways that are cultural, creative, and endlessly tasty. So where do you go if you want the best matcha in Japan?
Where to see cherry blossoms in Japan (8 stunning spots)
Cherry blossom season in Japan is basically a national obsession. The forecast is tracked like breaking news, convenience stores go all-in on pink-themed everything (even Starbucks gets in on it!), and locals stage full-blown picnics before most tourists have even had their morning coffee. This is a guide on where to see cherry blossoms in Japan with 8 hand picked spots deliver spectacular, picture-perfect views.
The 10 best gardens in Japan to visit this fall
Everyone’s always raving about Japan’s cherry blossom season, but here’s a little secret: fall might just be the country’s best-kept secret. Instead of pink petals, picture landscapes bursting with deep reds, oranges, and golds—colors that turn gardens and temple grounds into nature’s own art galleries.
So, if you’re thinking of swapping out spring for fall, these gardens in Japan should be on your radar.
8 traditional Japanese villages to visit for an authentic experience
Feeling overwhelmed by the blur of Tokyo's neon lights and the shuffle of the crowd? Take a breath and step off the beaten path into the tranquil world of Japan’s traditional villages. Far from the city's clamor, these quaint hideaways offer more than just a quiet escape; they’re a portal to a time-preserved lifestyle.
Perfect for culture seekers, these villages let you live like a local among landscapes rich with history and community tables laden with home-cooked dishes that are sure to surprise your tastebuds. Ready to trade skyscrapers for scenic vistas and discover flavors you’ve never even Googled before?
An insider’s guide to DisneySea’s latest attraction: Fantasy Springs
An insider’s guide to DisneySea’s Fantasy Springs. Dive into DisneySea’s Fantasy Springs with this straightforward guide. Get the lowdown on tickets, top attractions, and some insider tips to maximize your fun.
10 ways to use our private van service in Japan
No left-side driving or crowded trains—just smooth rides with local insights! Discover why private van hire is a must for a group travel or vacation for a family or couple in Japan.
Discovering the Hidden Treasures Beyond Osaka World Expo 2025
As the anticipation for the Osaka World Expo 2025 continues to build, travelers from around the globe are preparing to visit this city renowned for its dynamic culture and cutting-edge technology. While the Expo itself promises an array of spectacular exhibitions and futuristic innovations, the region around Osaka holds untapped treasures that beckon the curious and adventurous. Step off the beaten path with the eight best things to see in Osaka.
Step-by-step guide to getting your Universal Studios Japan Tickets
Heading to Universal Studios Japan (USJ) soon but feeling overwhelmed by the ticket buying process? Fret not, let us guide you through the important pointers in deciding the best tickets and passes to buy for your next visit to USJ! For a convenient way to purchase your tickets, head over to the official Universal Studios Japan ticketing website for a hassle free and peace of mind purchasing process.
Yamanashi: Sweet Grape Paradise
The article details two non-alcoholic grape products from Yamanashi Prefecture, also known as sweet grape paradise to the Japanese locals. These products are made with pride with no additives and support the local farmers. Find out how you can experience the local agriculture and visit the farm.
The juicy Japanese apple experience you don’t want to miss
Japanese fresh apples have long been praised for their delicious sweet taste. But wait till you see the variety of products that Japanese apple experts from Gunma can produce using their 100% fresh apples.