Stories from Japan

Travel Blog

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


Featured Post

Filter by category

Search Blog

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.

Read More

A Season of Light and Bloom: Family Summer Travel in Tokyo, Nagano, and Gunma

Summer in Japan invites travelers into a season of light, color, and celebration. For families seeking more than sightseeing checklists, TokudAw offers curated itineraries across Tokyo, Nagano, and Gunma that bring together tradition, nature, and comfort—complete with private transport, cultural access, and thoughtfully paced experiences. From mountain flowers to lantern-lit riversides, each moment is designed to be immersive, meaningful, and entirely your own.

Read More
Itineraries Itineraries

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.

Read More

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.

Read More
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.

Read More

8 traditional Japanese villages to visit for an authentic experience

Feeling overwhelmed by the blur of Tokyo's neon lights and the shuffle of the crowd? Take a breath and step off the beaten path into the tranquil world of Japan’s traditional villages. Far from the city's clamor, these quaint hideaways offer more than just a quiet escape; they’re a portal to a time-preserved lifestyle. 

Perfect for culture seekers, these villages let you live like a local among landscapes rich with history and community tables laden with home-cooked dishes that are sure to surprise your tastebuds. Ready to trade skyscrapers for scenic vistas and discover flavors you’ve never even Googled before?

Read More

Discovering the Hidden Treasures Beyond Osaka World Expo 2025

As the anticipation for the Osaka World Expo 2025 continues to build, travelers from around the globe are preparing to visit this city renowned for its dynamic culture and cutting-edge technology. While the Expo itself promises an array of spectacular exhibitions and futuristic innovations, the region around Osaka holds untapped treasures that beckon the curious and adventurous. Step off the beaten path with the eight best things to see in Osaka.

Read More
Itineraries Itineraries

The Ultimate Kyushu Itinerary (For 7 and 3-Day Trips!)

Kyushu prefecture is a beautiful part of Japan down south. Among the four main islands in Japan, Kyushu is the third largest island. It hosts natural treasures with rich history, culture, modern stuff, and stunning views. You’ll find rough terrains, volcanoes, lively cities, cool hikes, and delicious Kyushu ramen here.

When time is short, you’ve to make every moment count. For that purpose, we’ve prepared a 7-day Kyushu itinerary for you so you can enjoy the best of Kyushu.

Read More
Itineraries Itineraries

Japan Chubu and Hokuriku Adventure: 6 days, 5 nights

Taste seafood freshly caught from the Sea of Japan and see the mountains of Hokuriku draped in the fiery colours of autumn.

The Hokuriku Region lies to the northwest of Tokyo along the Sea of Japan, backing on to the spectacular snow-capped peaks of the Japanese Alps. This is one of Japan's most celebrated locations for seafood and gourmet dining, with Kanazawa in particular considered one of the very best places to eat in all Japan. Its majestic mountain landscapes and beautiful historic sites make it one of Japan's most popular locations for seeing the autumn colours, as do the natural thermal waters of its hot spring towns like Kaga Onsen.

Read More