Stories from Japan
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Destinations, food, culture and travel wisdom from the TokudAw team
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Where to Buy One-of-a-Kind Kimono Souvenirs in Japan (2026 Guide)
The best one-of-a-kind kimono souvenirs come from stores and studios working with real, once-worn kimono and obi rather than printed fabric — think Tokyo Kimono Shoes and Asakusa Tatsumiya for walk-in shopping in Asakusa, Tokyo Kimono Make and Kanzashi Sugino for hands-on workshops, and Annaj or Far East Fabric if you'd rather order online. Because every kimono bolt carries its own pattern, nothing on this list repeats — what you bring home won't be sitting in anyone else's suitcase too.
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 Is a Unique Food Experience in Tokyo? Try This Salt-Making Workshop and Umeboshi Tasting
Looking for a unique food experience in Tokyo? Learn how to create your own custom salt, taste different varieties of umeboshi, and discover a hands-on activity at Tokyo Solamachi that's perfect for food lovers and curious travelers.
What Are the Best STEAM Activities for Families Visiting Japan?
Discover the best STEAM activities for families visiting Japan. From hands on science and technology to traditional arts and engineering, learn while exploring some of Japan's most fascinating destinations.
Where is the Best Facial in Japan? Your Guide to Flagship Luxury and "Glow-Up" Souvenirs
If you’re traveling to Japan, you’ve probably asked yourself: Where can I actually get the best facial? and What skincare should I squeeze into my suitcase before I leave? Forget the generic spa menus at your hotel. To get the "Glass Skin" of your dreams, you need to go straight to the source: the flagship salons of Japan’s most iconic skincare brands. Here is where to go and what to buy.
Forest Bathing and Stress Reduction: Shinrin-yoku Meets Neuroscience
Shinrin-yoku, or “forest bathing,” began in Japan as a mindful way to reconnect with nature. Over time, it has gained global recognition for its therapeutic effects, even earning acknowledgment from the World Health Organization as a form of nature therapy. While the practice feels deeply traditional, modern neuroscience is beginning to explain why immersing ourselves in forests can be so restorative.
The best Japanese head spas & facials in Japan
In recent years, Japanese spas have become sought-after stops for travelers looking to unwind from fast-paced itineraries. But it’s not all hot springs and foot rubs; some of the most transformative treatments are the ones you’ll find tucked inside quiet salons in Tokyo, Kyoto, or Osaka.
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.
What is a Japanese tea ceremony? An insider’s guide
The Japanese tea ceremony, or chadō (the Way of Tea), is a ritual of deep appreciation for the present moment. Every step—from the quiet whisking of matcha to the subtle tilt of a teacup—is deliberate, steeped in centuries of tradition. But what actually happens at a tea ceremony? Is it just sitting in silence, sipping tea in slow motion? Why does it matter so much in Japanese culture? Most importantly, where can you experience the real thing without feeling like a tourist gimmick? This guide takes you inside the world of Japanese tea, from its Zen roots to the best places to witness this living art form for yourself.
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.
The 10 best gardens in Japan to visit this fall
Everyone’s always raving about Japan’s cherry blossom season, but here’s a little secret: fall might just be the country’s best-kept secret. Instead of pink petals, picture landscapes bursting with deep reds, oranges, and golds—colors that turn gardens and temple grounds into nature’s own art galleries.
So, if you’re thinking of swapping out spring for fall, these gardens in Japan should be on your radar.
Experience the Magic of Summer Fireworks Festivals in Japan
Japan’s summer season isn’t just about warm weather and beach outings—it’s also the time for spectacular fireworks festivals, or hanabi taikai. These vibrant displays of light and color, set against the night sky, have become an integral part of Japanese culture, attracting locals and tourists alike.
An insider’s guide to DisneySea’s latest attraction: Fantasy Springs
An insider’s guide to DisneySea’s Fantasy Springs. Dive into DisneySea’s Fantasy Springs with this straightforward guide. Get the lowdown on tickets, top attractions, and some insider tips to maximize your fun.
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.
Embrace Ecotourism in Japan at these Sustainable Travel Destinations
Explore Japan sustainably! Our guide covers the best green travel experiences for environmentally conscious explorers who want to find the quieter side of Japan.
Multigenerational Vacation Ideas: Celebrate Holidays with Your Grandkids in Japan
Going on a multigenerational trip can be tricky. There is a delicate balance between what sounds like fun for the kids and what might be more enjoyable for older members of the family. But if there is a country where you can have all the fun in the world regardless of your age, it is Japan. There is so much to offer each and every generation.
Read on to learn some great multigenerational vacation ideas for your next trip to Japan.
Step-by-step guide to getting your Universal Studios Japan Tickets
Heading to Universal Studios Japan (USJ) soon but feeling overwhelmed by the ticket buying process? Fret not, let us guide you through the important pointers in deciding the best tickets and passes to buy for your next visit to USJ! For a convenient way to purchase your tickets, head over to the official Universal Studios Japan ticketing website for a hassle free and peace of mind purchasing process.
12 Sumo Wrestling Facts You Must Know Before Catching a Tournament
We’ve put together a list of some fun facts to help readers understand the culture, history, and significance of sumo wrestling in Japan.
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.
Top 7 Places to Experience a Japanese Tea Ceremony in Kyoto
Explore Kyoto's top 7 tea ceremony spots for a tranquil experience of Japan’s rich cultural and Zen traditions in the city's historical and serene settings.