Tag: life in Japan

  • The Japan Rail Pass: What You Need to Know

    The Japan Rail Pass: What You Need to Know

    When visiting Japan, people always talk about the Japan Rail Pass. But it really depends on your budget and what you intend to do in Japan as to whether it’s really worth it. See my post on the main features of the pass here:https://japanspecialist.com/w/the-japan-rail-pass-what-you-need-to-know

  • 10 Most Popular Foods to Eat in Japan & How to Find Them

    10 Most Popular Foods to Eat in Japan & How to Find Them

    Sushi and ramen get all the love when it comes to Japanese food, but what other tasty treats are there in this gourmet wonderland? Find out in my post here:https://japanspecialist.com/w/10-most-popular-foods-japan

  • Exploring Ebisu: A Walking Guide to Tokyo’s Beer Hub

    Exploring Ebisu: A Walking Guide to Tokyo’s Beer Hub

    I’ll admit, I had never actually been to Ebisu until I did so for this article! I’d always known it was a place for beer, but until recently I hadn’t been much into craft beer… Now I’m just itching to go back! Don’t worry, there’s more to Ebisu than beer – for example the TOP…

  • Fun Things to Do Near Shibuya Station

    Fun Things to Do Near Shibuya Station

    At one point, Shibuya was one of my favourite places to hang out in Tokyo. There’s so much to eat, see, and do here! Although I’ve started to prefer the slow life, Shibuya is definitely a must-visit for your first time in Tokyo, especially if you can go up the new Scramble Square building. https://livejapan.com/en/in-tokyo/in-pref-tokyo/in-shibuya/article-a0005127/

  • 5 Awesome Rides Up Japan’s Mountain Peaks

    5 Awesome Rides Up Japan’s Mountain Peaks

    Japan has some amazing mountains, but if you’re not a regular hiker they can be quite daunting. So I put together a piece about some of the most picturesque mountains with ropeways, cable cars, and ski lifts to get you to the top! https://allabout-japan.com/en/article/11100/

  • Jiyugaoka: Ultimate Guide to The Fancy Side of Tokyo

    Jiyugaoka: Ultimate Guide to The Fancy Side of Tokyo

    This is a bit of a long one! But it’s a light read – it’s all about the highlights of the area of Jiyugaoka, Tokyo. The area is heavily westernised, so it has a lot of interesting architecture and cultural fusion going on. But whether you’re looking for a bowl of vegan ramen, or a…

  • 20 Best Towns to Enjoy the Winter Snow in Japan

    20 Best Towns to Enjoy the Winter Snow in Japan

    I think, at least in the west, Japan is too often stereotyped by Tokyo and Kyoto. It’s either modern or traditional, and there’s nothing else special about it. But in reality, given how big Japan is, there’s this huge variety of interesting cultures that are often heavily influenced by their climate. These beautiful towns are…

  • How to Rent a Car in Japan

    How to Rent a Car in Japan

    I’ve rented a car a fair few times in Japan, but if it’s your first time it can be a little confusing. Here are a few basic tips to help you go on your first drive around Japan! https://blog.gaijinpot.com/how-to-rent-a-car-in-japan/

  • Illumination Events in Japan for Christmas 2022

    Illumination Events in Japan for Christmas 2022

    In recent years, Japan has gone all out with its “illumination” events around Christmas time. These events usually take places in parks or large facilities, and are decked out with colourful lights and wintery music. A few of them took a break during the pandemic, but a lot of them are back with a bang…

  • Beginner’s Guide to Onsen in Japan

    Beginner’s Guide to Onsen in Japan

    Winter is the time for a hot bath and relaxation! But onsen in Japan are a little different to your run-of-the-mill bath, so here I look at some of cultural and linguistic tips for an enjoyable hot spring trip: https://blog.gaijinpot.com/beginners-guide-to-onsen-in-japan/