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Matsutake Mushrooms: The Autumn Delicacy That Captivates the Senses | Arigato Travel
As the crisp air and vibrant foliage of autumn sweep across the Northern Hemisphere, a culinary treasure emerges from the forest floor: the matsutake mushroom. Revered for centuries in East Asia, particularly in Japan, this wild mushroom is more than just a seasonal ingredient. It is a symbol of autumn's fleeting beauty and a testament to nature's delicate balance. What are matsutake mushrooms? Matsutake (松茸), meaning
Honoring Wisdom: Experiencing Japan’s Respect for the Aged Day | Arigato Travel
Have you heard of Respect for the Aged Day? This national holiday is celebrated on the third Monday of September across Japan. Known as Keirō no Hi, the purpose of the day is to show respect to the elderly who have contributed to society and to celebrate their long lives. This special day isn't just a holiday; it's a fundamental part of Japanese culture that highlights the importance of honoring wisdom and experience. Through various celebrations and traditions, the day reflects a deep-seated respect for elders that is central to the country's values. So, let's jump into this special day that honors family, tradition, and love. How the Holiday Started The holiday first started in Taka Town, Kita-Harima, Hyogo Prefecture (formerly known as Nomadani Village in Taka District). At that time, the village mayor, Masao Kadowaki, suggested, “Let’s take care of our elderly people and use their wisdom for the village’s growth.” He held a meeting to honor them, and that became the beginning of the holiday. From the very beginning, the purpose of this special day has always been to respect and take care of grandparents and other older people. After its beginnings as a small village event, the observance of Respect for the Aged Day quickly spread. Once it became a national holiday, a wide range of traditions and customs developed across the country. Families began using the day as a special opportunity to visit their elderly relatives, often bringing gifts of flowers, sweets, or practical items to show their appreciation. In schools, children would create heartfelt cards and drawings for their grandparents, while communities and local governments would organize events such as concerts, traditional performances, and tea parties to honor senior citizens. This collective effort, from personal gestures to public ceremonies, solidified the holiday's role as a nationwide tribute to the wisdom, hard work, and long lives of Japan's older generation. From September 15 to Happy Monday In 2025, the holiday is set to fall on Monday, September 15. In the past, it has always been on this date every year. In 2001, the “Happy Monday System” was created, and from 2003 onwards, the date changed to the third Monday of September. This system moves some holidays to Monday so people can have a three-day weekend. Because Respect for the Aged Day is close to Autumn Equinox Day, sometimes the week becomes a long holiday known as “Silver Week.” Who Do We Celebrate? There is no set rule for the age of people you celebrate on this day. While the Elderly Welfare Law defines those over 65 as
Hiking the Nakasendo: A Journey Through Japan’s Edo-Era Heartland | Arigato Travel
Long before Japan’s high-speed trains and expressways, travelers crossed the country on foot along scenic highways that stitched together mountains, rivers, and bustling towns. Among the most celebrated was the Nakasendo, an inland route connecting Kyoto and Edo (modern-day Tokyo) during the Edo period (1603–1868). Samurai, merchants, messengers, and even princesses journeyed along this road, weaving through the heart of Japan. Today, much of the Nakasendo has been preserved or lovingly restored, offering modern travelers a rare chance to walk in the footsteps of centuries past and experience the rhythms, scenery, and hospitality of 17th-century Japan. Historical overview In the early Edo period, the shogunate established a network of highways to connect major cities. The Nakasendo was one of the most important, stretching about 534 km (332 miles) through mountains, valleys, and fertile plains. Unlike the coastal Tokaido, the Nakasendo ran inland, a safer route for travelers wishing to avoid river crossings or rough coastal weather. Along the road were 69 post towns (shukuba), each offering lodging, food, and stables. Many of these towns still exist today, their Edo-era wooden inns and merchant houses preserved as cultural treasures. Walking the Nakasendo isn’t just a hike, it’s a journey into a Japan that still smells of fresh cedar and echoes with the sound of geta sandals on stone. Where to hike While the original Nakasendō stretched over 500 kilometers from Kyoto to Edo, most modern hikers focus on the best-preserved central section in the Kiso Valley, between Magome-juku and Tsumago-juku. This 8-kilometer stretch is relatively gentle, taking about 2–3 hours at a relaxed pace, and passes through cedar forests, waterfalls, old teahouses, and charming rural villages. Another popular option is Narai-juku to Kiso-Hirasawa, a shorter but equally scenic route known for lacquerware shops and beautifully preserved Edo-period architecture. For those with more time, combining multiple sections over two or three days allows you to visit several post towns, like Kiso-Fukushima, Ochiai, and Nakatsugawa, and experience a richer variety of landscapes and local hospitality How to get there Both Magome and Tsumago are accessible by train and bus from Nagoya or Matsumoto. The usual route is to take the JR Chuo Line to either Nakatsugawa Station (for Magome) or Nagiso Station (for Tsumago), then connect via local bus. Luggage forwarding services are available between the two towns, making the hike lighter and more enjoyable. Highlights along the trail Traditional tea houses: Stop at places like Tateba Chaya, where you can sip green tea and snack on seasonal treats; it’s often free for hikers. Waterfalls: Odaki (male waterfall) and Medaki (female waterfall) offer peaceful spots for photos and rest. Local shops: Try chestnut sweets (kuri kinton), gohei-mochi (grilled rice cakes with sweet miso), or pick up hand-crafted souvenirs. Cafe Kappe: 4316-1 Magome, Nakatsugawa, Gifu 508-0502 Magomekan: 4571-1 Magome, Nakatsugawa, Gifu 508-0502 Yamashiroya: 4299 Magome, Nakatsugawa, Gifu 508-0502 Yomogiya: 4257 Magome, Nakatsugawa, Gifu 508-0502 Difficulty & preparation These sections are generally well-marked and beginner-friendly, but you’ll still want sturdy walking shoes, water, and light snacks. Trails can be muddy after rain, and mobile signals are inconsistent in some forested areas. While vending machines exist in post towns, there’s little in between, so pack accordingly. When to go Spring (March–May): Mild weather and blooming cherry blossoms along the trail. Autumn (October–November): Crisp air, brilliant fall foliage, and fewer crowds. Summer (June–August): Lush greenery, but prepare for humidity and occasional rain. Winter (December–February): Quiet and atmospheric, though some facilities may close and trails can be icy. Tips for hiking the Nakasendo Bring cash: Many shops and inns don’t take credit cards. Stay overnight: Booking a night at a minshuku (family-run inn) in Tsumago or Magome lets you enjoy traditional dinner and breakfast. Pack light: If you’re carrying luggage, use the luggage forwarding service between towns. Follow etiquette: Stay on the trail, greet locals with a friendly “konnichiwa,” and respect preservation efforts (no littering or loud noise). Plan transportation: Magome is accessible via bus from Nakatsugawa Station, Tsumago via bus from Nagiso Station. Walking back in time Hiking the Nakasendo is not just a physical journey; it’s an immersion in Japan’s deep cultural memory. You’ll pass moss-covered jizō statues, hear the rush of mountain streams, and smell the smoke from old hearths. The road is the same one samurai walked, merchants traded along, and travelers rested upon centuries ago. Whether you do the short Magome to Tsumago hike or take on a longer section, the Nakasendō offers something rare: a chance to slow down and experience Japan at the pace of the Edo period. Featured Photo Credit: Blanscape Seeking unique fall adventures in Japan? Explore our top autumn tours to embrace the delicious magic of the season!
Osaka for Coffee Lovers: 5 Kissaten to Add to Your List | Arigato Travel
Do you know about kissaten in Japan? As you might know, there are many cafes located around the country, but kissaten stand out as unique, with the biggest difference being the atmosphere. Cafes are open and lively, while a kissaten is a retro and quiet place to settle down and enjoy your drink of choice. Also known as kissa, inside these unique shops you can explore the world of the Showa era with vintage furniture, antiques and dark wood. Not to mention that in Osaka, a city where the old and new are blended, there are great kissa that offer unique experiences. So, let’s check them out! Hiraoka Coffee Residing near Honmachi Station, Hiraoka Coffee is the oldest kissaten in Osaka. It has been passed down through three generations since 1921. The highlights are its home-roasted coffee and homemade doughnuts. This shop is especially known for offering three original coffees: Hyakunen coffee, aromatic blended coffee, and bitter blended coffee. They serve boiled coffee, which is rarely seen in other stores and your typical cafe nowadays. Also, the slightly sweet doughnuts match the drinks perfectly, creating an amazing experience tailor-made for your tastebuds. Some fans even visit Hiraoka Coffee solely for its doughnuts! Surrounded by antiques and wood furniture, you can spend a comfortable time relaxing and enjoying a delicious cup of joe and a homemade golden brown ring of joy. Address: 3 Chome-6-11 Kawaramachi, Chuo Ward, Osaka, 541-0048 Opening hours: Wed ~ Sun - 10:00 ~ 18:00 Price range: 500 ~ 1000 yen Website (only in Japanese): https://www.cafe-hiraoka.jp Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cafe_hiraoka Marufuku Coffee (Sennichimae honten) Located in the Cuo-Ward, Marufuku Coffee Sennichimae Honten has been loved by all for generations since 1934. This kissa is the setting of the famous Japanese novel “Bara no ame” by Seiko Tanabe. When you step into the building, you can see elegant lamps and stained glass, creating a retro atmosphere that is sure to put your mind at ease. It will make you want to stay and spend as much time relaxing as possible. As far as food goes, we have to recommend the pancakes, which are cooked on the copper grill in house. It goes so well with plenty of butter and a hefty serving of maple syrup! Address: 1 Chome-9-1 Sennichimae, Chuo Ward, Osaka, 542-0074 Opening hours: 8:00 ~ 23:00 Price range: 1000 ~ 2000 yen Website (only in Japanese): https://marufukucoffeeten.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/marufukucoffee1934 Cafe Sunshine Right around the corner of the A7 exit of Higashi-Umeda Station, Cafe Sunshine is a specialised coffee shop where you can drink 10 different kinds of coffee. This type of kissaten is called “junkissa”, with jun meaning pure. At the drink menu, they only serve coffee and no alcoholic beverages. You can taste high-quality coffee in a warm place with orange lights and a comfortable sofa. Also, Cafe Sunshine offers a wide range of dishes such as Japanese omelettes and creamy puddings. Come the 15th of April, the kissaten will be moving to the second basement floor of the Osaka Station 3 building, set to reopen this May. Address: 1 Chome-1-3 Umeda, Kita Ward, Osaka, 530-0001 Opening hours: Mon ~ Fri - 7:00 ~ 20:00, Sat ~ Sun - 8:00 ~ 18:30 Price range: 1000 ~ 2000 yen Website (only in Japanese): https://www.kissa-sunshine.jp Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kissa_sunshine Arabiya Coffee Opened in 1951, Arabiya Coffee has a catchy slogan: “Cheers with coffee!” The interior is a bit unique from other kissa, holding a secret hideaway on the second floor! The whole kissaten is like a gallery where you can see a lot of treasures and learn the history of this shop. On the first floor, you can taste various coffees and foods. They are famous for their rich homemade pudding, which goes well with many of their full-boiled coffee. If you want somewhere to rest after the food tour, visit Arabiya Coffee. Address: 1 Chome-6-7 Namba, Chuo Ward, Osaka, 542-0076 Opening hours: Mon ~ Fri - 11:00 ~ 18:00, Sat ~ Sun - 10:00 ~ 19:00 Price range: 1000 ~ 2000 yen Website (only in Japanese): https://arabiyacoffee.com/index.html Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/arabiyacoffee29 LiLo Coffee Roasters This kissaten offers daily special coffee, which is carefully chosen by the baristas. Surprisingly, you can enjoy 20 different coffees on any given day! If you cannot decide what to drink, ask the kind English-speaking staff; they’re more than happy to help you find that perfect brew. This shop also has an English menu, so it is perfect for travelers who aren’t familiar with Japanese. If you like the coffee in the shop, you can order it online, even from foreign countries. But they don’t just offer drinks, you can also try some dishes like a croissant, a hotdog and a cinnamon roll. LiLo Coffee Roasters is located in Nishishinsaibashi, and it takes 3 minutes on foot from the A6 exit of Nishishinsaibashi Station. Address: 〒542-0086 Osaka, Chuo Ward, Nishishinsaibashi, 1 Chome−10−28 Shinsaibashi M, １階 Opening hours: 11:00 ~ 23:00 Price range: 450 ~ 1000 yen Website: https://coffee.liloinveve.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lilocoffeeroasters Osaka is well known for local soul foods like takoyaki and okonomiyaki, but it has an unexpected side. There are many retro kissa where you can settle down by sipping coffee, and pairing it with that perfect snack or sweet. With the antiques and vintage furniture, you can also feel the past of Japan, providing you with a unique, relaxing atmosphere each time you visit. From Hiraoka Coffee with its century-old history to LiLo Coffee Roasters which serves various kinds of coffee, each place offers a special experience you’re sure not to get anywhere else. Whether you are a coffee enthusiast or simply looking for a spot to rest, these kissaten will be sure to make you spend so long within their walls, whilst having a comfortable, relaxing time. Featured Photo Credit: Cafe Sunshine After a little