Exploring Japan one destination at a time
Cherry blossoms and drinking have been connected for over a thousand years. The 10th-century poet Ki no Tomonori famously wrote: “If there were no cherry blossoms in this world, the heart of spring would be at peace.“ But here we are, centuries later, still sitting under sakura trees with a cold drink in hand, watching … Read more
So you’re curious about how Japan celebrates Christmas? Well, buckle up because it’s nothing like what we do back home in Australia – and that’s exactly what makes it so interesting. I’ve experienced Christmas in Japan before, and I’ll be doing it all again in 2025. Let me tell you – it’s a completely different … Read more
Japan’s food scene is amazing. But after three days of nothing but sushi, ramen, and yakiniku, I learned the hard way: too little fibre (fiber for my American readers) leads to that “ugh” feeling that’s definitely not jet lag. It’s your gut asking for help! The good news? Fibre-rich food is easy to find in … Read more
Yokohama is a great city for food lovers, and okonomiyaki is one of its top treats. This savoury pancake, famous for its diverse ingredients, is a must-try when visiting the city. I’ve discovered some of the best places to enjoy this iconic dish, from small family-run joints to big restaurants, each offering its own twist. … Read more
Welcome to Yokohama sushi lovers! If you are reading this it means you are looking for some great sushi spots in Yokohama? Well, you’ve come to the right place. I’ve been to many – some were great, some were good, some were okay, but never a bad one. So I will be sharing my top … Read more
Welcome to the magical world of Japanese convenience stores, or “konbinis”! These one-stop shops offer a unique shopping experience that caters to both locals and tourists alike. In this blog post, we will delve into the top 3 Japanese convenience stores, their unique offerings, and how they reflect Japanese culture. Prepare to be amazed by … Read more
Walk down any major street in Tokyo, Osaka, or Yokohama and you’ll spot at least three Starbucks stores within a few blocks of each other. Japan is home to over 1,700 Starbucks locations – more than any country outside the US and China. For a nation with such a rich coffee culture, from traditional kissaten … Read more
Best Picks & Insider Tips in 2025 Japanese beer has a rich history and a distinctive brewing tradition. It has gained worldwide recognition for its quality, variety, and unique brewing techniques. It is often described as having a crisp, clean taste. Exploring the fascinating beer culture of Japan can be an eye-opening experience. Beer is … Read more
Look, I get it. You’re planning your Japan trip and your list is already packed – temples, sushi joints, ramen spots, maybe a cheeky onsen or two. But if you skip Japanese bakeries, you’re missing out on one of the best (and most affordable) food experiences in the country. They are the secret weapon for … Read more
The Fish-shaped Japanese snack that’ll hook you! I’ll never forget the first time I smelled taiyaki. Early 2000s, walking through Meguro, Tokyo, and this incredible sweet aroma just grabbed me. Followed my nose straight to a tiny shop where a bloke was making these golden, fish-shaped pastries. Bought one. Finished it. Then immediately bought another. … Read more