Stories from Japan
Travel Blog
Destinations, food, culture and travel wisdom from the TokudAw team
Featured Post
Search Blog
Japan Recommended Accommodation & Local Experiences at Every Epic Pass Resort
Planning a Japan ski trip with the Epic Pass? Discover recommended accommodation, local food, hot springs, cultural experiences, and private ski transfers in Hakuba Valley and Rusutsu.
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.
Injured on Your Japan Ski or Snowboard Trip
A guide on how to get back to Tokyo when you’ve become injured on your ski trip and need to get to the airport with your gear or have some time left in your trip.
Will El Niño Ruin Japan’s Ski Season?
The mention of an El Niño ski season sends everyone into crisis mode. But what does it mean for Japan? Should you cancel your trip?
Nope! The short story of our research shows that while Japan has proven to be warmer than usual in cycles of El Niño, but snow will still come.
Here are five things every skier or snowboarder should know before making a decision about Japan’s ski season in an El Niño year.
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.
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.
Peak Performance Style: The Ultimate Guide to Shopping Outdoor Luxury in Japan
A comprehensive shopping guide for high-end outdoor brands. This article explains where to find flagship stores in Tokyo and the mountains, highlights "Japan-only" exclusive lines like TNF Purple Label, and offers a seamless way to book shopping transport via Tokudaw.
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.
The Science Behind Onsen: Unveiling Japan's Natural Wellness
The science behind Japan's revered onsen (hot springs) culture, moving beyond the traditional perception of relaxation to a deeper understanding of their therapeutic benefits. It reviews research on how different types of onsen, such as Carbon Dioxide, Sulfate, Bicarbonate, and Acidic springs, can positively impact health through their unique mineral compositions. The piece highlights specific mechanisms, like vasodilation for circulation and the bactericidal effects of acidic waters on skin conditions.
With flu season in full swing, here’s what travelers need to know before visiting Japan
Japan remains one of the world’s safest travel destinations, but like anywhere, it comes with seasonal risks—especially in winter, when flu and norovirus cases spike. Crowded trains, busy tourist attractions, and indoor heating all contribute to the rapid spread of infections. Learn from a biomedical scientist and founder of TokudAw, has spent years bridging science with travel. With a Ph.D. in Biomedical Science and deep expertise in Japan’s medical landscape, she offers key insights into how travelers can protect themselves—and how TokudAw provides health-conscious solutions for those exploring Japan.
What to Pack for Your Winter Adventure
A guide for how to pack for the winter snow and cold weather in Japan. Layering is the best way to stay warm and dress in winter. You’ll need to dress in 3 layers–base layer, mid layer, outer layer. You’ll also need warm accessories, which we will cover in this guide for cold-weather dressing.
Snow Forecast Japan — Why 2025 Is the Perfect Season for Powder Hunters
Imagine carving through clouds of featherlight snow, where every turn feels like gliding through silk. That’s Japow—a skier’s nirvana, and Japan’s ultimate winter gift.
But the magic doesn’t stop at the slopes. Soak tired legs in soothing onsens framed by snow-capped peaks and refuel with steaming bowls of soba or a bubbling hot pot, all while the lively yet serene ambiance of Japanese ski villages wraps around you.
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.
The Best Winter Travel Destinations and Activities in Japan for Non-Skiers
The Best Winter Travel Destinations and Activities in Japan (around Tokyo) for Non-Skiers. We have selected a list of winter experiences you can enjoy in Japan without strapping two planks or a board to your feet.
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.
What to know about an La Niña winter in Japan?
La Niña–mention this term to any experienced skier and snowboarder, and watch as their eyes glow in uncontrollable excitement. Think you know everything about La Niña? What exactly is La Niña and why should you care? Read on to find out 5 things every skier or snowboarder needs to know about the phenomenon La Nina.
Planning Your Dream Japan Ski Season
Japan’s famously good skiing is calling you! This article is full of tips and tricks for how to make the most of the Japan ski season and have unforgettable downhill experiences.
11 Best Things to Do in Winter in Japan
Winter is a magical season in Japan. From celebrations to traditions to festivals and foods, here’s a list of experiences you don’t want to miss on your end-of-year trip. Make sure to stay safe in the snowy roads and warm with our trained drivers escorting you to the. best winter locations.
Private Ski Transfers in Japan
There's a much quicker and more comfortable way to reach your mountain resort. Booking one of our private ski transfers eliminates the public transport ordeal and lets you get underway as soon as you land. Drop your bags, skis, boards and boots in one of our comfortable private cars and ride directly to the doorstep of your resort in peace.