Blog

  • Mountain Day: Celebrating Japan's Famous Peaks

    Mountain Day: Celebrating Japan's Famous Peaks

    Mountain Day is a national holiday celebrated in August 11 in appreciation of Japan's beautiful mountains. Learn about Japan's mountain ascetic hermits, Yamabushi, Mount Fuji travel tips, and why these rugged peaks are so treasured among Japanese.
  • A large group of men carry a golden portable shrine for Gion Matsuri

    Gion Matsuri: Japanese Culture Meets Spectacle

    Japan has tons of amazing festivals, but three stand out as the country’s “Big 3 Festivals”. One stands out as a Kyoto original festival that attracts tons of people every year and has its own regional variations. That festival is Gion Matsuri, and we’ve put together an in-depth guide this amazing, culture-filled festival.

  • A group of women in green kimonos and straw hats do Toyama's Obon dance

    All About Obon Festival: Japan’s Holiday of Spirits

    In Japan, there are holiday seasons that everyone looks forward to, both for a break and to enjoy different festivities. New Years comes in winter, Golden Week in spring, and Silver Week in fall.
  • A small mountain of soba sits on a Japanese zaru tray

    Soba: Japan's Most Varied Noodle Experience

    Ramen is our personal favorite and has spread all over the world. Meanwhile, udon is a thick noodle that we have a soft spot for. However, the third and possibly most varied noodle that we’re going to cover here is soba...
  • A basket of many yellow yuzu sits on a table

    What is Yuzu? The Tasty Citrus Japan Loves

    Lovers of Japanese snacks and Japanese ramen might have encountered a tasty, yellow citrus fruit that looks like a lemon but doesn’t quite taste like one. That fruit is called yuzu and it can be found in all kinds of tasty Japanese foods and treats.
  • Many carp streamers hang from a line for Children's Day and Golden Week

    Golden Week: Japan's Springtime Mega Holiday

    Working in Japan can be intense, which is why Japan loves its holidays. It’s both a chance to relax and unwind while also observing parts of Japanese culture. One of the biggest times to let loose is during the super fun long holiday known as Golden Week!