If you’ve ever booked a “7-seater” in Japan and wondered why only six of you could fit—this article is for you. The truth is, vehicle labels here don’t always mean what they seem. 

A 10-seater might be a van, or it might be a bus. Luggage can mean folding down seats. And seat count? That usually includes the driver. 

For travelers trying to organise airport transfers, family trips, or group tours, these quirks can get confusing fast. That’s why understanding the basics—and booking with the right provider—makes all the difference. 

Keep reading, as we’re breaking it all down before you book.

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!

A simple guide to help you stay warm and cozy for your snow holiday in Japan

How to Dress for Winter and Snow

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. Dressing in multiple layers not only helps to trap more heat than wearing just one thick layer, but it is also a very functional way to regulate your body temperature. As you move from the cold to a warmer place indoors, you’ll be glad to be able to remove some of those layers.

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.

Is your Japanese heritage a bit of a mystery? Do those faded family photos and half-remembered stories spark a desire to explore a world you barely know? Maybe the language barrier, the vastness of Japan, or just not knowing where to start has held you back. 

But that longing to connect, to understand where you truly come from—that's a powerful feeling. And in Japan, where ancient traditions intertwine with modern life, that connection can be life-changing.

Ancestry tours are tailor-made for this quest, going far beyond the usual tourist trail. They’re a deeply personal journey into your Japanese roots: a combination of historical research, immersive cultural experiences, and a touch of genealogical detective work. You'll walk the same paths your ancestors did, experience the traditions they held dear, and maybe even uncover long-lost family connections.

If you’re feeling the pull of your roots, but you’re unsure where to start, we've put together three ancestry tours in Japan below—each of which can be customized to your specific family history and interests. 

Whether you yearn for the tranquility of rural Japan, the dynamic energy of its cities, or a full-blown culinary adventure, there's a path waiting to lead you home.

Have you always felt a connection to Japan, a curiosity about the place your grandparents or great-grandparents once called home? Maybe you've heard stories about distant relatives you've never met or stumbled upon an old family heirloom that sparked questions about your heritage. 

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. 

You may be wondering where to even begin, or if it's even possible to find those missing branches of your family tree after all these years. This guide can help start the process of uncovering your Japanese ancestry. We’ll share practical tips, point you to helpful resources, and offer a bit of encouragement along the way.