Exploring Japan one destination at a time
There are unwritten rules at Japanese hot springs. Break them and you’ll get the look. (You know the one.) I’ve been visiting Japan since 2004, but it took me many years to even try an onsen. The thought of getting naked in front of strangers had me politely declining for years. When I finally did … Read more
In 2016, I would’ve told you to rent pocket WiFi for your Japan trip. In 2026, I think most tourists should get an eSIM instead. After 22 years travelling to Japan and using everything from Vodafone roaming to a Sakura Mobile eSIM, this guide covers what actually works now: real 2026 prices, the best provider … Read more
Everyone told me to skip Japan in June. Even my own wife. The first time I went during tsuyu, I’d booked the trip months earlier without realising. People warned me to push the dates, particularly the second half of June when tsuyu hits its peak. I didn’t budge. And it ended up being one of … Read more
If you’ve just landed in Tokyo and your eyes are already watering, or you’re about to fly in and wondering why everyone’s wearing masks, welcome to kafunshō season (花粉症). Hay fever in Japan is serious business. It affects roughly 40% of the population, and plenty of unsuspecting tourists get caught out every year. This guide … Read more
A few months back I was at a tiny gyoza restaurant in Yokohama, proudly ordered my food, when the waitress asked me something. She was standing there clearly waiting for an answer. I smiled and nodded (classic) but she asked again and again… I tried to work it out without reaching for my phone, my … Read more
At first glance, hanami looks like glorious, beautiful chaos. Hundreds of people crammed under cherry blossom trees, food and drinks everywhere, kids running around, music playing, petals drifting onto everything. It feels like anything goes. But spend enough time at a hanami (cherry blossom party) and you’ll realise there’s a whole set of unspoken rules … Read more
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
Planning a trip to Japan in 2026? You’ve picked a ripper year – because 2026 has something special that only happens every 5-7 years: Silver Week! Before we go into the dates, here’s what you need to know: Japan has 16 fixed public holidays each year, but 2026 gets a bonus 17th holiday (luck them!). … Read more
Back in 2004, I stepped off the plane at Narita with my Japanese mates picking me up, thinking I had a pretty good handle on what to expect. I’d read the Lonely Planet cover to cover, asked my friends a million questions, and felt ready. Turns out, actually being there is completely different to reading … Read more
Let’s be honest: you’re probably a bit terrified of Tokyo. The maps look like a bowl of ramen noodles, the train station has 200 exits, and no one seems to speak English. Good news: it’s all a lie. Tokyo is a secret introvert – incredibly orderly, logical, and easy to navigate once you learn its … Read more