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The Ultimate Guide to Seeing Monkeys in Japan: from Onsen Regulars to Wild Encounters
You've likely seen the now-iconic image of Japanese macaques—or "snow monkeys," as they're affectionately called—chilling out in a steaming onsen, looking as serene as a human on vacation. Coming face to face with these furry, red-faced locals is one of those quintessential Japan experiences that’s on just about everyone’s bucket list. But where exactly do you find them? Are they just sitting in hot springs all over Japan? And can you just walk up and say hi? Read on for our

japansophy
Aug 28, 20256 min read


Tokyo Station: Grandiose European charm and a modern urban experience
An architectural incongruity amongst the modern skyscrapers of the Marunouchi district, Tokyo Station is the transportation heart of the...

japansophy
Aug 20, 20254 min read


Narita-san Temple: Your first (or last) taste of Japan's history and serenity
Historical Narita-san Temple is often overlooked by tourists but can be a wonderful first or last impression of Japan. Image courtesy of...

japansophy
Aug 20, 20254 min read


Tsukiji Outer Market: a foodie nirvana with a long tradition
Fresh fish for sale at the Tsukiji fish market Tsukiji Outer Market (築地場外市場, Tsukiji Jōgai Shijō) is a vibrant district adjacent to the...

japansophy
Aug 20, 20254 min read


Niki no Kashi: The candy king of Ueno!
Find the perfect souvenir for everyone back home at Niki no Kashi. Image courtesy of Jorge from Brazil, via Wikimedia Commons ...

japansophy
Aug 20, 20254 min read


Chidori-ga-fuchi moat: Tokyo romance and seasonal beauty
The old castle moat transforms into a wonderful sakura-viewing spot in spring. Chidori-ga-fuchi Moat (千鳥ヶ淵) is a peaceful waterway that...

japansophy
Aug 19, 20254 min read


Yasukuni Shrine: for quiet contemplation and historical reflection
Although not free of controversy, this shrine continues to be well-attended and hosts numerous popular festivals throughout the year....

japansophy
Aug 18, 20253 min read


Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building: for skyline views and urban elegance
Get your views for free... from the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building Prepare for a perspective-shifting experience at the Tokyo...

japansophy
Aug 17, 20254 min read


DiverCity Tokyo Plaza: for shopping, entertainment, and Gundam thrills
The Rainbow Stairs at DiverCity in Odaiba, Tokyo, are infinitely instagrammable Get ready for an exciting and futuristic experience at...

japansophy
Aug 17, 20254 min read


Hoppy Street: for retro vibes and a taste of old-school Tokyo
The name says it all: Hoppy Street in Asakusa is famous for its casual, retro-style drinking establishments and eateries Step into a...

japansophy
Aug 17, 20254 min read


Godzilla in Shinjuku: for kaiju thrills and a monstrous photo opportunity
The "life-sized" Godzilla statue peers over Kabukicho and shows off its impressive manicure! Get ready to have a monster of a time!...

japansophy
Aug 17, 20254 min read


Ginza Tokyo; a Glittering Gem of Luxury & Elegance
The 12-floor Ginza Uniqlo flagship store is the first port of call in Tokyo for many international shoppers. Prepare to step into a world...

japansophy
Aug 16, 20256 min read


Odaiba: Tokyo's Futuristic Island Playground in the Bay!
Rainbow stairs at Odaiba's DiverCity: just one of the evening time attractions of this modern complex Get ready for a super-fun,...

japansophy
Aug 16, 20256 min read


teamLab Planets: Dive Headfirst into Tokyo's Immersive Digital Art!
TeamLab Planets in Tokyo features a number of fascinating immersive exhibits Get ready to shed your shoes (and maybe roll up your...

japansophy
Aug 16, 20256 min read


Hamarikyu Gardens: Tokyo's Tidal Pond Oasis with a Skyline View!
Hamarikyu Gardens tea house against the modern, high-rise city of Tokyo Step into a serene slice of history and prepare to be utterly...

japansophy
Aug 16, 20255 min read


Zojoji Temple: Where Ancient Serenity Meets Modern Icons
Zojoji Temple has a unique backdrop and wonderfully peaceful gardens Prepare for a truly iconic Tokyo photo op, because Zojoji Temple...

japansophy
Aug 16, 20256 min read


Tokyo Tower: Tokyo's Classic Icon with Dazzling Views!
Tokyo Tower: Tokyo's iconic landmark is just a few metres taller than the Eiffel Tower Get ready to ascend a piece of Tokyo's heart and...

japansophy
Aug 16, 20256 min read


Tokyo SkyTree: see Tokyo sparkle from its highest viewpoint!
Get ready to have your breath taken away and maybe your ears popped at Tokyo SkyTree observation deck (東京スカイツリー)! Not to be confused with Tokyo Tower, SkyTree is a colossal broadcast and observation tower that pierces the Tokyo skyline, standing as one of the tallest structures in the entire world and offering unparalleled, breathtaking 360-degree panoramic views of the sprawling metropolis, stretching all the way to Mount Fuji on a clear day. Disclosure: This post contains

japansophy
Aug 16, 20258 min read


Kappabashi Kitchen Street: Tokyo's Quirky Kitchen Kingdom!
Kappabashi Kitchen Street in Asakusa for everything you never knew you needed for your kitchen. Get ready to sharpen your appetite and...

japansophy
Aug 16, 20256 min read


Sensoji Buddhist Temple & Nakamise-dori: Asakusa's Enduring Heartbeat
Sensoji Buddhist temple is on everybody's Tokyo itinerary. Go extra early to beat the crowds. Step into a bustling portal to old Tokyo...

japansophy
Aug 16, 20256 min read
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