Stories from Japan

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Destinations, food, culture and travel wisdom from the TokudAw team


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Japanese foods to try for first-time visitors and how to cook or eat the foods

Unlike many restaurants where food is prepared entirely in the kitchen, many Japanese meals invite guests to become part of the experience. Some restaurants bring raw ingredients to the table for guests to cook, while others serve noodles and broth separately or encourage diners to assemble their own meal. These traditions aren't meant to be complicated. Instead, they allow everyone to enjoy food at their own pace while creating a more memorable dining experience. Another thing many visitors appreciate is the flexibility. Several Japanese dining styles naturally make it easier to order smaller portions or share dishes with others, making them a great option for couples, families with children, and multi-generational groups traveling together. Rather than committing to one large entrée, many restaurants allow guests to choose exactly what and how much they would like to eat.

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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.

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Shopping Shopping

Top 10 Must-Buys from Don Quijote

If you’ve visited or planned a trip to Japan, chances are that you’ve heard of Don Quijote: the country’s largest discount store. Between travellers and locals alike, Donki is a favourite and one-stop shop for almost anything you could need. 

From cosmetics to candy, and suitcases to souvenirs, Donki stores have it all. But with some mega-stores spanning across eight floors, there’s almost no time to see everything on offer in store. 

Here’s a quick must-buy guide for all visitors looking to visit a store near them; for travel essentials and keepsake goodies!

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TokudAw Tips TokudAw Tips

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.

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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.

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How to Trace Your Japanese Ancestry (A Beginner’s Guide)

Tracing your Japanese roots is a deeply personal journey, a way to connect with your family's past and understand your own identity. But let’s be honest, it can also be a bit daunting: The language barrier, the unfamiliar record-keeping system, and the sheer distance can make the task seem overwhelming. This is a guide to help you get started.

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Itineraries Itineraries

Echoes of the Past: A Japanese Ancestry Journey

Many people with Japanese ancestry are living in the US or other countries having never experienced the country that their family comes from, and are looking for just the right tour to show them their heritage. This trip is a perfect for first-time travelers of Japanese ancestry looking to learn more about your family’s home country and their roots.

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Booking a Japan Tour with TokudAw Inc

At TokudAw Inc, we know that the best journeys are the ones that provide truly personal experiences. So, as your dedicated Japan travel agency, that’s why we go above and beyond to create tailored tour packages for those visiting Japan. Wondering how exactly we do this? Here, we detail how easy it is to book with us so keep reading and take one step closer to your next unforgettable adventure.

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