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Japan's Iconic Castles: Your Ultimate Bucket List
If you've ever dreamt of stepping back in time, wandering through ancient halls where samurai once strode, or gazing upon landscapes that...

japansophy
Oct 9, 20258 min read


Luggage forwarding in Japan: travel hands-free to your hotel
Dragging a suitcase through crowded stations, weaving through narrow streets, and clattering over train platforms — sound familiar? Japan...

japansophy
Oct 6, 20256 min read


Taking your luggage on the Shinkansen: the great suitcase dilemma
Traveling on Japan’s famous Shinkansen is one of the highlights of any trip, but if you’re carrying bulky suitcases or extra bags, it pays to know the rules before you board. While the bullet train is fast, efficient, and comfortable, luggage space is more limited than many travellers expect. In recent years, new regulations have been introduced for oversized bags, and there are specific places on each train where your luggage must be stored. Read on to find out what you need

japansophy
Oct 2, 202510 min read


Sumida River cruise: see Tokyo from the water for a completely new perspective
From the historic charm of Asakusa to the futuristic cityscape of Odaiba, a cruise down the Sumida River (Sumidagawa) is both a feast for...

japansophy
Sep 29, 20257 min read


Taking the Shinkansen from Tokyo to Kyoto: everything you need to know
Tokyo to Kyoto is one of Japan’s most iconic journeys — and the best way to make it is on the Shinkansen, Japan’s world-famous bullet train. Covering roughly 450 kilometres in as little as two hours and twenty minutes, this high-speed route connects the nation’s modern capital with its ancient one in comfort and style. Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you click through and make a purchase, I may earn a small commission, ♡ at no extra cost to you ♡ Jump t

japansophy
Sep 25, 20259 min read


How to take the bullet train in Japan: Shinkansen 101 (updated for 2026)
Picture this: you settle into a comfy seat, leg-room galore and suddenly you're zipping across the Japanese countryside at over 300 kilometres per hour, the landscape a verdant blur outside your window. There's no turbulence, no traffic, just the soft hum of an incredibly smooth, efficient machine... and the occasional surprise of a whoosh through a tunnel. Welcome to the world of the Shinkansen! Especially if you're in Japan for the first time, organising a journey on the Sh

japansophy
Sep 25, 202513 min read


Shin-Okubo Korea Town: vibrant, energetic, spicy!
Step into another world without leaving Tokyo. Shin-Okubo Korea Town is a whirlwind of K-pop, sizzling street food, and mega-trendy...

japansophy
Sep 24, 20254 min read


Kokkai-gijidō: Tokyo’s monumental seat of power
It may not boast the spiritual serenity of Tokyo’s temples or the eclectic charm of cat cafes, but the National Diet Building (国会議事堂...

japansophy
Sep 24, 20255 min read


The Imperial Palace: the heart of Tokyo
An island of open space and historical architecture in a city of dazzling high-rise buildings, the Imperial Palace is probably the first...

japansophy
Sep 24, 20254 min read


Gotokuji temple: more maneki-neko than you can wave your paw at!
Tucked away in the quiet, residential Setagaya Ward, Daikeizan Gotokuji temple is a whimsical escape from Tokyo's urban jungle. While it may lack the grand scale of some of the city's more famous shrines, its unique and charming atmosphere more than makes up for it. Jump to: How to get to Gotokuji temple Opening hours and best time to visit Admission What to see & do at Gotokuji temple Top tips for Gotokuji temple Facilities Nearby attractions For some reason, Gotokuji is kno

japansophy
Sep 23, 20255 min read


Best day trips from Tokyo (in under 4 hours by train)
Bored of Tokyo? Never! It would take a lifetime to experience everything this city – the biggest in the world, don't forget – has to...

japansophy
Sep 22, 202514 min read


Where to stay in Tokyo: our top recommended spots and why we pass on some
Choosing where to stay in Tokyo can be a bit of a headache, especially for first-timers. Let our guide narrow it down for you Tokyo is...

japansophy
Sep 18, 202514 min read


Japanese Curry: Japan's Ultimate Comfort Food
Japanese curry is the comfort food you never knew you needed. Make some at home this winter! You, dear reader, might be sitting on that...

japansophy
Sep 15, 20258 min read


🛍️ Tax-Free Shopping in Japan: The Complete Guide for 2026
Tax-free shopping in Japan lets tourists save 10% on fashion, electronics, souvenirs, and more—here’s how it works now, and what’s changing in 2026

japansophy
Sep 11, 20256 min read


Your Ultimate Guide to Konbini (Japanese Convenience Stores): what's all the hype?
A konbini (Japanese convenience store) is a 24/7 shop in Japan offering affordable food, snacks, drinks, ATMs, and everyday services.

japansophy
Sep 8, 202512 min read


Day trip to Fuji from Tokyo: Doable?
Want to get up close and personal with Mt Fuji? A day trip is very doable from Tokyo Planning a day trip to Mount Fuji from Tokyo can be...

japansophy
Sep 4, 20256 min read


What to bring back from Japan? We've got your souvenir list covered!
Ah, Japan! It's a land that captivates all your senses, and trust me, it also captivates your wallet with an endless array of tempting...

japansophy
Aug 30, 20258 min read


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


Japan in October: is this the best time to visit Japan?
So you're thinking of visiting Japan in October? Perhaps you're envisioning crisp, clear skies, the subtle start of autumn colours, and a break from the sweltering heat of summer. October is a glorious time in Japan, offering a perfect balance of pleasant weather and unique seasonal experiences. While the country is still buzzing with energy, the intensity of summer has given way to a more comfortable and leisurely pace. Read on to find out about what you can expect for an Oc

japansophy
Aug 25, 20258 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
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