Stories from Japan
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Destinations, food, culture and travel wisdom from the TokudAw team
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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.
Culinary experiences
TokudAw food, agricultural, and culinary experiences that explore the seasonal and local flavors of Japan and specific prefectures. Learn more about the types of experiences TokudAw can create for you.
Winter Activities in Japan
Off the beaten path destinations to visit during November, December and January in Japan that are not ski resorts. Learn about festivals, light ups, and onsen towns that make great cultural destinations during the holiday season.
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.
The JRA Tokyo Racecourse Museum
The Tokyo Racecourse is a historical track, first opening in 1933 and renovated in 2007. It offers more than just watching horse racing. The grounds are home to the JRA Tokyo Racecourse Museum with interactive displays and memorabilia related to the sport. The area also allows visitors to get close to the horses, depending on schedule and weather.
Travelling Safely in Japan: A Guide by TokudAw
What to do in Japan during or planning for a medical emergency, when facing transportation and logistics problems, an earthquake or natural disaster, if items are lost or stolen and how TokudAw operates to keep you safe.
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.
Is Yomiuriland Worth Visiting? Everything You Need to Know Before You Go
Looking for a fun day trip from Tokyo? Yomiuriland offers exciting rides, seasonal events, family-friendly attractions, and beautiful illuminations, making it a great destination for visitors of all ages.
What Are the Best Ways to Recover After Climbing Mount Fuji?
Discover five of the most popular day trips from Tokyo, including Mount Fuji, Hakone, Nikko, Kamakura, and Tokyo's top attractions. Learn which tour is best for your travel style and how TokudAw can help make exploring Japan easier.
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’s Early Bloom: Where to See Sakura in Mid-March 2026
Visiting Tokyo in mid-March? You don’t have to wait for the main season to see cherry blossoms. Our latest guide covers the best early-blooming spots for 2026, including the Kawazu-zakura at Tokyo Skytree, the spiritual charms of Sakura Jingu, and the 'Flower and Light' movement at Kiba Park. Experience the magic of spring without the peak-season rush.
Comparing travel agencies in Japan: Why TokudAw could be the best fit for you
Japan is one of the world’s biggest and most popular hubs for tourism, with thousands travelling around the country from around the world every year.
Travel agencies are the go-to for travellers looking for a relaxing and safe trip to Japan.
At TokudAw, we prioritise making meaningful connections, long-lasting memories, and making sure you get your dream trip before anything else.
Arriving in Japan: Why private airport transfers are the way to go
Travelling is one of the most fulfilling and exciting experiences there is. But, between the sight-seeing and food tasting, long hours of transit and lugging heavy suitcases can quickly turn into a pain.
But, after long haul flights and the chaotic journey of collecting your baggage and going through customs, the last think you want to worry about is how to get to your accommodation.
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.
How to decorate your Christmas tree with Japanese souvenirs this festive season
The festive season is just around the corner! But this Christmas, don’t miss out on the chance to have your tree shine extra bright by adding your favourite Japanese souvenirs to the mix.
Japan souvenir stores are filled with cute keychains and hanging decorations featuring many traditional, cultural figures. But there’s only so much room on a single keychain. Instead, try adding a unique twist to your tree this year by hanging these keychains as ornaments instead.
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.
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.