Stories from Japan
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Destinations, food, culture and travel wisdom from the TokudAw team
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How to Best Utilise the Indy Pass in Japan? A 2026 Guide to Hidden Power Gems & Unmatched Cultural Pass
How to experience the most Japan while skiing at Indy Pass resorts in Japan. TokudAw’s list of recommended accommodations, regional cuisine, and experiences across every Indy Pass resort cluster in Japan.
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.
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.
Why Matsumoto City Should Be on Your Japan Bucket List
Your Guide to Matsumoto City in Japan. Discover the charm of Matsumoto City—known for its iconic castle, sumptuous dining, and serene onsen retreats in Japan's vivid Alps.
Embark on a voyage into luxury : Unveiling Japan's Premier New Retreats
Enhance your travel journey with an indulgent escape to Japan's newest and most luxurious hotel destinations. Immerse yourself in the refined artistry of these exquisite establishments, each offering a harmonious blend of sophistication and cultural resonance. Explore with us as we reveal a carefully curated selection of recently opened and upcoming havens, set to transform your definition of opulence.
Best Ryokans (Japanese style hotels) in Japan
Experience the epitome of Japanese luxury and culture. Discover the charm, tranquility, and heritage of Japan's finest ryokans.
Hotel Koo Otsu Hyakucho
Designed by architect Yoshiji Takehara, the hotel's rooms are spread across seven traditional townhouses dating back to the last century, reinterpreted and transformed into comfortable, modern spaces while losing nothing of their original soul, but providing all the facilities modern visitors expect. But the choice of its location was a fundamental part of the design. Otsu is a 20 minute drive from the overcrowded tourist hotspots of central Kyoto and is often overlooked in favor of its more famous neighbor. Bringing visitors here helps to support the regions outside the tourist hotspots and reinvigorate commerce, but also to give visitors a glimpse of the hidden charm that can't be found in the over-travelled centers.
Yamanashi: Sweet Grape Paradise
The article details two non-alcoholic grape products from Yamanashi Prefecture, also known as sweet grape paradise to the Japanese locals. These products are made with pride with no additives and support the local farmers. Find out how you can experience the local agriculture and visit the farm.
The juicy Japanese apple experience you don’t want to miss
Japanese fresh apples have long been praised for their delicious sweet taste. But wait till you see the variety of products that Japanese apple experts from Gunma can produce using their 100% fresh apples.