inspo & info

Shinto weddings are among the most beautiful and culturally significant ceremonies in Japan. While modern couples often choose hotel or chapel-style weddings, the traditional Shinto ceremony continues to be deeply valued for its symbolism, atmosphere, and connection to Japan’s spiritual heritage. Many couples also opt for a traditional Japanese wedding to avoid the exorbitant costs that a Western-style wedding entails. If you have seen the movie "Lost in Japan", you might rem

Tokyo may be famous for iconic religious sites like Sensō-ji in Asakusa or Meiji Jingu in Shibuya, but you'll be fighting for elbow space and fending off selfie-stick attacks. If you're seeking something more intimate—spaces where you can breathe, wander, and soak in centuries of quiet history—Tokyo has plenty of hidden gems. In this article, we'll explore ten lesser-known temples and shrines that offer beauty, cultural depth, and tranquility beyond the well-trodden tourist p

Feel like a break from the relentless energy of Tokyo? Put yourself on a train from Ikebukuro and in just 30 minutes you'll be transported out of the city and back in time (you'll think) into the Edo Period (1603-1868), when the castle town of Kawagoe served as a crucial trading post supplying the capital. Read on to discover why a day trip to Kawagoe should be in your Japan itinerary. Jump to (1) Little Edo (2) What to see in Kawagoe city (3) Link to Kawagoe map (4) What to

Matcha has exploded onto the global scene. From classic usucha  (thin tea) served in quiet tea rooms to neon-green lattes and matcha-swirl ice cream, this vibrant powder is everywhere. Tourists are snapping up tin after tin of matcha faster than shelves can be restocked, and news stories abound of shortages in the traditional tea houses of Kyoto, as producers struggle to keep up with demand. But what exactly is matcha, and why does it command such a high price and deep fascin

If you've ever dreamt of stepping back in time, wandering through ancient halls where samurai once strode, or gazing upon landscapes that...

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...

An architectural incongruity amongst the modern skyscrapers of the Marunouchi district, Tokyo Station is the transportation heart of the...

Historical Narita-san Temple is often overlooked by tourists but can be a wonderful first or last impression of Japan. Image courtesy of...

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...

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

Hamarikyu Gardens tea house against the modern, high-rise city of Tokyo Step into a serene slice of history and prepare to be utterly...

Zojoji Temple has a unique backdrop and wonderfully peaceful gardens Prepare for a truly iconic Tokyo photo op, because Zojoji Temple...

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...

Sensoji Buddhist temple is on everybody's Tokyo itinerary. Go extra early to beat the crowds. Step into a bustling portal to old Tokyo...

Tokudaiji Marishiten temple is a small, picturesque, gaily painted temple in a very unusual market setting Marishiten Tokudaiji ( 特大寺...

Hello Kitty as a cultural treasure: Tokyo National Museum also stages pop cultural events. Photo by...

Ameyoko market is a bustling, colourful experience day or night. ...

Yanaka Ginza is known for its laid-back, retro vibes: a world away from Tokyo's other Ginza! Step back in time at Yanaka Ginza Shopping...

This 400 year-old shrine is dedicated to the memory of Tokugawa Ieyasu, Japan's first Tokugawa shogun Ueno Toshogu Shrine ( 上野東照宮)  is a...