Stories from Japan
Travel Blog
Destinations, food, culture and travel wisdom from the TokudAw team
Featured Post
Search Blog
The Ultimate Tropical Trip: Okinawa
Itinerary for Okinawa including historic stops, one of the largest aquariums in the world, dramatic nature landscapes and iconic locations for shopping.
The Secret Spots of Japan’s Snow Country Winter
Explore Japan’s snow country on the slopes and off: This itinerary will take you from from Nagano and Niigata to Gunma, through tunnels, onsen towns, and over the mountains.
Ultimate Itinerary for Mountains and Art in Japan
An itinerary for those who wish to travel into nature, away from Japan’s most crowded areas, while also experiencing art.
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.
Best of Japan’s Manga and Anime Itinerary
One day sight-seeing itineraries for Japan’s most popular Anime and Manga series.
Japan: An itinerary for the crafter and textile lover
An in-depth itinerary for those who want to explore the art, textiles, and crafts of Japanese culture – both current and modern.
Japow chaser’s itinerary for deep culture and riding
Itinerary for Japow lovers to build bespoke high-performance gear with local Japanese artisans in Niigata and shred Japow with elite guides.
Snow Discovery Itinerary
Discover Japan’s world famous snow through this short itinerary designed for families or people who want to play in the snow in a region somewhat close to Tokyo, Niigata. Perfect for those who may have never experienced snow, travelers who seek an alternative education-based travel, or just like to learn.
How to Prepare for the Weather in Japan and Why It Matters for Your Trip
Japan is known for its remarkable cyclical seasonal beauty: cherry blossoms in the spring, beautiful leaves in autumn, powdery snow slopes in winter, and lively fireworks in the summer. Japan’s weather, while beautiful, can also be intense. This article covers what you need to know.
What the Japanese Art of Kintsugi Teaches Us About Embracing a Culture of Mistakes
This is the philosophy of the Japanese art of Kintsugi, this ancient art form involves repairing broken pottery with gold and it is a lesson that can transform not just how we travel, but how we live.
Japanese Hospitality: How Omiyari, Omotenashi, and Ganbarimasu Creates the Perfect Travel Experience
TokudAw was founded on the belief that travel should be about meaningful connections between people, cultures, and environments. Explore what aspects of hospitality are and how they come to life in TokudAw.
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.
Raising Global Citizens Beyond the Classroom Through Japan Family Travel
It could be argued that a rise in technology ironically has made people more disconnected than ever, therefore it has become increasingly important for parents to prepare their children for a life of compassion, empathy, and global understanding.
How to do Japan Without Being Exhausted: The Philosophy of Ma and Slow, Mindful Travel
The secret to a life-changing family trip isn’t actually a secret, it is the key to experiencing the same quality of joy without over-exhausting yourself and your family. It is the Japanese philosophy of ‘Ma’, that transforms travel into a mindful practice to bring forth deeper emotions of contentment, gratefulness, and enjoyment.
What Can Design Students Learn From Traveling in Japan?
Traveling through Japan offers design students valuable lessons in visual communication, accessibility, user experience, and storytelling. From public spaces to retail stores and theme parks, every environment demonstrates how thoughtful design shapes everyday experiences.
What Are the Best Flagship Stores in Tokyo for Designers and Tech Professionals?
Explore Tokyo's best flagship stores and immersive retail experiences, featuring interactive technology, contemporary art, and innovative store design.
What Japanese Foods Are Best for First-Time Visitors to Try?
Wondering what Japanese foods to try on your first trip? From sushi and ramen to okonomiyaki, yakiniku, and ochazuke, discover beginner-friendly dishes every first-time visitor should experience.
What Can Visitors Learn From Tokyo’s Ad Museum and NHK Museum of Broadcasting?
Discover two of Tokyo's most underrated museums. Learn how the Tokyo Ad Museum and NHK Museum of Broadcasting offer unique insights into Japanese design, advertising, media, and broadcasting while making a great stop on a custom Tokyo itinerary.
“What Did Life Look Like When You Were My Age?” A Family Discussion Guide For Multigenerational Groups Exploring Japan
There will come a day when a memory goes from a moment you keep on a shelf to a living, breathing thing to share and pay forward. This is the day you experience the gift of multigenerational travel, being able to see Japan through the eyes of your children or grandchildren, building upon the memories this beautiful place has previously birthed.
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.