inspo & info

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

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

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...

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

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

Bored of Tokyo? Never! It would take a lifetime to experience everything this city – the biggest in the world, don't forget – has to...

8 out of 10 TikTok experts will try and convince you that your Japan trip will be ruined... RUINED, we tell you... if you don't stay in Shinjuku. It's of course a very subjective choice but we beg to differ. Here's why we score Shinjuku just 3/10

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...

A konbini (Japanese convenience store) is a 24/7 shop in Japan offering affordable food, snacks, drinks, ATMs, and everyday services.

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...

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...

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

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

An architectural incongruity amongst the modern skyscrapers of the Marunouchi district, Tokyo Station is the transportation heart of the city. The gateway to Japan's intricate railway network, Tokyo Station (東京駅) is an architectural masterpiece located in the heart of the city and blends historical grandeur with the sleek efficiency of a modern metropolis. Originally opened in 1914, the station's iconic red brick facade evokes a sense of European elegance, standing in stark c

Historical Narita-san Temple is often overlooked by tourists but can be a wonderful first or last impression of Japan. Image courtesy of 663highland via Wikimedia Commons Just a few kilometres away from the busy, modern gateway to Japan that is Narita International Airport, a world of spiritual serenity and historic grandeur awaits at Narita-san Shinsho-ji Temple (成田山新勝寺), a magnificent Buddhist temple located in the city of Narita. Narita-san is often overlooked by tourists,

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...

Niki no Kashi ( 二木の菓子) is a legendary confectionery store nestled within the bustling Ameya Yokocho market in Tokyo's Ueno district. For over 70 years, it has been a local and tourist favorite, famous for its vast and eclectic selection of snacks and sweets. This collection of shops (all within a few metres of each other) is a veritable paradise for anyone with a sweet tooth or a craving for Japanese treats. We never visit Ameyoko without dropping in here. The only problem

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...

Although not free of controversy, this shrine continues to be well-attended and hosts numerous popular festivals throughout the year....

Get your views for free... from the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building Prepare for a perspective-shifting experience at the Tokyo...