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Destinations, food, culture and travel wisdom from the TokudAw team
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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.
The (relatively) unknown Health Benefits of a Mount Fuji Tour
Mount Fuji, Japan's iconic and majestic peak, offers far more than just breathtaking views; it's a source of profound well-being, deeply rooted in its ancient volcanic geology. A journey to this sacred mountain provides an unforgettable sightseeing experience combined with a unique opportunity to tap into remarkable health benefits, particularly those derived from its pristine underground spring waters.
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.
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?
An Insider’s Guide on Summer in Japan
You’ll hear it before you see it: cicadas buzzing like a static hum in the trees. Festival drums echo down backstreets. Paper lanterns sway above yakitori grills, while kids chase goldfish through makeshift pools. This is summer in Japan: loud, lively, and layered with tradition. If you’re planning on spending summer in Japan, here’s what you need to know.
What to do in Japan in spring
Spring in Japan doesn’t just arrive; it takes over. The entire country turns into a sakura-soaked spectacle, with pink petals drifting through temple gardens, rivers reflecting endless blooms, and convenience stores going all-in on cherry blossom-themed everything[1] (yes, even a Starbucks coffee).
But seeing the season isn’t enough. You want to experience it. That means slipping into a kimono in Kyoto, sipping matcha in Uji, and rowing beneath illuminated blossoms in Tokyo. This itinerary is designed for travelers who don’t chase the obvious spots but want the full, immersive spring experience.
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.
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.
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.
15 Tokyo Japanese lifestyle stores you’ll love
Tokyo is a shopper’s paradise, where you can find everything from cutting-edge electronics to centuries-old craftwork. But when it comes to lifestyle and homeware, Tokyo’s stores offer something truly special.
Whether you're looking for beautifully designed kitchenware, minimalist home decor, or artisan-crafted trinkets, these 15 stores showcase the best of Japanese design. For travelers interested in Japanese culture, these stores offer a glimpse into Japan’s aesthetic philosophy, where function meets beauty.
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.
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.