Stories from Japan
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Destinations, food, culture and travel wisdom from the TokudAw team
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Recommended Accommodation & Local Experiences at Every Ikon Pass Resort
Skiing all day is incredible, but great stays and authentic off-slope culture are what make Japan legendary. Here is where to stay and what to experience across every single Ikon Pass stop.
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.
Fueling the Powder Chaser: Guide to Post-Ski Recovery in Japan - Food to nourish your body and experiences to relax and connect
Skiing the Japanese "Japow" is a peak physical experience, but it demands a scientific approach to recovery. In this article, our Nutrition Scientist and DMC Managing Director breaks down the top 10 Japanese foods—from electrolyte-rich Tonjiru and "liquid IV" Amazake to anti-inflammatory Soba—specifically chosen to rehydrate and repair your body.
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.
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.
Why you need to be aware of the different vehicle types in Japan
If you’ve ever booked a “7-seater” in Japan and wondered why only six of you could fit—this article is for you. The truth is, vehicle labels here don’t always mean what they seem. A 10-seater might be a van, or it might be a bus. Luggage can mean folding down seats. And seat count? That usually includes the driver.
For travelers trying to organise airport transfers, family trips, or group tours, these quirks can get confusing fast. Keep reading, as we’re breaking it all down before you book.
Why Japan Is the Perfect Destination for Educational Trips and Service Learning
Japan is a great destination for educational trips as it is the perfect blend of nature, sports, history, and modern culture. The infrastructure is dependable. The train transportation network is well-developed. The water and food quality are high, and even eggs are routinely eaten raw. The country is also well known for being a safe country; elementary school children go to school on their own.
What is a Japanese tea ceremony? An insider’s guide
The Japanese tea ceremony, or chadō (the Way of Tea), is a ritual of deep appreciation for the present moment. Every step—from the quiet whisking of matcha to the subtle tilt of a teacup—is deliberate, steeped in centuries of tradition. But what actually happens at a tea ceremony? Is it just sitting in silence, sipping tea in slow motion? Why does it matter so much in Japanese culture? Most importantly, where can you experience the real thing without feeling like a tourist gimmick? This guide takes you inside the world of Japanese tea, from its Zen roots to the best places to witness this living art form for yourself.
Your Guide to Choosing the Ultimate Ski Resort in Japan
From ski-only resorts, resorts with night skiing, park skiing, tree skiing, off-piste skiing, and resorts for the ultimate Japow experience, you’ll find a resort to suit your needs.
Impressive architecture in Tokyo (9 must-see spots)
Tokyo’s skyline is a masterclass in contrast—where centuries-old temples sit comfortably next to sleek, futuristic towers. It’s a city where tradition isn’t lost to modernity, but rather, woven into it.
From the refined elegance of Edo-era wooden architecture to the bold, avant-garde structures that push the limits of design, Tokyo is a living showcase of architectural evolution.
We're guiding you through some pretty impressive architecture in Tokyo, where stunning visuals meet engaging cultural experiences. But first, a quick look at what makes Japanese architecture so special.
Planning a Ski Trip to Japan? Wait–Don't go to Hokkaido.
Here’s why you should try skiing on the main island of Honshu instead. You can’t wait to experience the legendary Japow you’ve heard so much about. Instinctively, you want to hit the ski resorts in Hokkaido - but wait. Before booking your accommodation and tickets for Hokkaido, we want to share some compelling reasons why a ski trip in Honshu could be an even better choice.
3 Ancestry Tours in Japan to Discover Your Roots
Is your Japanese heritage a bit of a mystery? Do those faded family photos and half-remembered stories spark a desire to explore a world you barely know? Maybe the language barrier, the vastness of Japan, or just not knowing where to start has held you back.
But that longing to connect, to understand where you truly come from—that's a powerful feeling. And in Japan, where ancient traditions intertwine with modern life, that connection can be life-changing. Discover how to find tour roots by exploring Japan
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.
Your essential packing list for a Japan road trip
Pack smart for your Japan road adventure! Learn the essential items you need for exploring Japan by road, from rural vistas to urban excursions.
A Winter's Tale: Aomori and Iwate Experience
Embark on a captivating journey through Aomori, Iwate, and Yamagata, where each day unfolds like a winter fairy tale across snowy landscapes, historic castles, sailing through tranquil gorges, and playing with cute foxes.
12 Sumo Wrestling Facts You Must Know Before Catching a Tournament
We’ve put together a list of some fun facts to help readers understand the culture, history, and significance of sumo wrestling in Japan.