Japan Cherry Blossom Forecast 2026: Best Times & Places to Visit (Forecast Map)

by

Cherry blossom season in Japan is a breathtaking sight that draws millions of visitors every year. The fleeting beauty of sakura symbolises renewal in Japanese culture, creating dreamy pink (or white) landscapes perfect for photography, picnics, and experiencing authentic Japanese traditions. The Japan Meteorological Corporation (JMC) released its fourth cherry blossom prediction on February 5, … Read more

Setsubun: The Day We Throw Beans at Demons (And Eat Sushi in Silence)

by
Setsubun: Japan's Bean-Throwing Festival Explained

Tonight at our place, we’ll be eating uncut sushi rolls without speaking, then throwing beans at whoever draws the short straw to wear the oni mask. Just another regular day in a house that celebrates Japanese traditions. Welcome to Setsubun – one of Japan’s quirkier festivals that perfectly combines ancient superstition with an excuse to … Read more

Are Tokyo Restaurants and Trains Too Hot in Winter? Here’s the Truth

by

I was scrolling through Reddit the other day and saw someone asking if Tokyo’s restaurants, shops, and trains are “over-heated” in winter. Their mate had just come back from Tokyo in early January and reckoned he was walking around in just a shirt because everywhere indoors was absolutely roasting. As someone who’s currently spending winter … Read more

Japan Snow Update: January 27th 2026 – Season Fully On Track!

by

❄️ UPDATE: January 27, 2026 – Absolutely Firing Now! Two weeks on from my last update, and the transformation is complete. The past fortnight has delivered massive snowfall across Japan – particularly in Honshu. We’re talking gains of 50-140cm at major resorts in just two weeks. The season that started so slowly? It’s now absolutely … Read more

Best Places to See Snow in Japan

by
Best Places to See Snow in Japan

Looking for the best places to see snow in Japan? You’re in for a treat. Japan gets absolutely hammered with snow – we’re talking 10-15 metres per season in many areas, creating some of the world’s best powder skiing and most stunning winter landscapes. From riding the lifts in Hakuba, to soaking in outdoor hot … Read more

Should Tourists get a Suica or PASMO Card?

by
Pasmo & Suica Guide for Tourists

Quick Answer Yes. Tourists should absolutely get a Suica or PASMO card because it makes trains, subways, and buses simple to use. It also works for vending machines, convenience stores, and lockers, which saves time every day. Either card works exactly the same way across Japan. Short on Time? Read This Quick summary for busy … Read more

Visiting Tokyo in Winter: Your Complete Guide (2025-2026)

by
Roppongi Illumination - Visiting Tokyo in Winter

Winter in Tokyo doesn’t look like what most people picture when they think “Japan in winter”. There are no massive snowdrifts, you won’t need ski gear, and honestly, some days feel downright pleasant. But is visiting Tokyo in winter worth it, or should you save your trip for cherry blossom season? After visiting Tokyo in … Read more