At Arigato Travel, we believe every journey should not only enrich your life but also leave a positive impact on the places you visit. As the world moves forward with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), we invite you to explore Japan in a way that aligns with these meaningful global efforts. Let’s embark on a sustainable adventure—one that supports local communities, protects natural beauty, and builds authentic connections. We’d love to share 5 of the UN’s 17 global goals that resonate deeply with travel in Japan. Keeping these in mind during your journey can help make a real difference for local people and the stunning environment of this incredible destination. The United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) are a set of 17 interconnected objectives designed to create a more equitable, inclusive, and sustainable future for our planet. These goals address pressing global challenges such as poverty, climate change, inequality, and environmental degradation, with a vision of achieving progress by 2030. While the SDGs encompass a wide range of initiatives, many of them align closely with the principles of responsible travel and tourism. In this blog, we’ll explore a few key goals that can be applied to travel and tourism in Japan, highlighting how mindful exploration can contribute to a better world while offering unforgettable experiences. SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production – The Art of Local Dining Japan's culinary scene is a tapestry of flavors, traditions, and stories passed down through generations. By choosing to dine locally, you become part of this rich narrative. Our food tours spotlight family-owned restaurants and hidden gems where seasonal, locally sourced ingredients take center stage. Imagine savoring fresh sushi crafted by a master chef whose family has perfected the art for centuries or indulging in farm-to-table delicacies in a rustic countryside setting. Responsible consumption isn't just about enjoying delicious food; it's about supporting sustainable practices that reduce waste and empower small businesses. By embracing traditional cooking techniques and mindful dining, you're contributing to a cycle of positive impact that resonates far beyond your meal. SDG 13: Climate Action – Low-Impact Travel in Japan Japan's efficient public transportation system is not just convenient—it's a sustainable way to explore the country. Opt for the iconic Shinkansen (bullet train) or local trains to reduce your carbon footprint while enjoying scenic journeys. Our walking-focused tours in cities and nature walks in rural areas offer immersive experiences without the environmental impact of car travel. We also encourage eco-conscious practices such as staying at green-certified accommodations that utilize renewable energy and implement waste reduction measures. Small actions like using reusable bottles and shopping bags during your trip can make a significant difference. SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals – Supporting a Global Sustainable Future At Arigato Travel, we believe in the power of collaboration. We partner with local communities, artisans, and organizations to create experiences that are meaningful for both travelers and locals. Whether it's arranging workshops with traditional craftsmen or coordinating with environmental groups for eco-tours, our partnerships amplify the positive impacts of sustainable tourism. By choosing us, you're not just booking a trip—you're joining a network committed to making a difference. Together, we can support the UN’s SDGs and contribute to a more sustainable and interconnected world. Sustainable travel is more than a trend; it's a conscious choice to make a positive impact while exploring the world. Japan offers a unique blend of tradition and innovation, providing the perfect backdrop for a journey that aligns with the UN's SDGs. As you plan your travels for 2025, consider how your journey can contribute to responsible consumption, environmental preservation, and community support. At Arigato Travel, we're passionate about crafting experiences that are enriching for you and beneficial for Japan's people and places. Let's make your next adventure not just memorable, but meaningful. Featured photo credit: maridav Let’s embrace a time of meaningful travel. Contact us today to start planning your sustainable journey through Japan!

Arigato Travel

15.04.2025

Enjoy Japan’s Summertime with Amusement and Water Parks | Arigato Travel

Japan’s summers are known for getting quite hot and many look for ways to beat the heat. While there are popular methods, such as visiting a beach or taking a dip at the nearest pool, Japan has many more ways to escape the heat and have fun during this hot and humid season. If you’re looking forward to a summer trip to Japan, this blog will prepare you with a list of available amusement and water parks that you can find throughout the country so that instead of remembering the intense steamy weather, you’ll remember all the fun you had at these parks! Theme Parks: Tokyo Joypolis If you’re looking for a way to stay cool but still have fun, Joypolis is number one on the list due to it being one of Japan’s biggest indoor amusement parks. Entertainment with air conditioning to escape Japan’s humidity? You won’t find that much elsewhere, making Tokyo’s Joypolis a park you should consider incorporating into your travel plans. This park contains more than 20 attractions and several roller coasters, making it perfect for those seeking a thrill this summer. Address: https://maps.app.goo.gl/9ZPeG7xbMEAKqmnt9 Website: http://tokyo-joypolis.com/ Times: 10:00 AM - 10:00 PM Ticket: 1,200 yen (adult) 900 yen (child) Legoland Japan Located in the beautiful city of Nagoya, Japan is home to the eighth Legoland in the world. With adventurous rides, fun Lego-shaped food, and workshops, there’s a little bit of everything for everyone. With four areas in the park, Adventure, Lego City, Knight’s Kingdom, and Pirate Shores, you can enjoy shows and rides for people of all ages. If you’re interested in learning more about Lego, there are certain activities to learn about the manufacturing process along with the respective machinery that goes towards making the very popular Lego as we know it. Make sure to try out the various Lego-shaped foods during your visit, too! Address: https://maps.app.goo.gl/5E1CvqAbkauU2TLz7 Website: http://www.legoland.jp/ Times: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM (6:00 PM on weekends) Ticket: 5000 - 7400 yen (adult) 3700 - 4800 yen (child) Fuji Q Highland Considered one of Japan’s most popular amusement parks, Fuji Q contains one of the world’s scariest haunted houses, not to mention boasting a beautiful view of Fuji in the background. There’s no doubt that Fuji Q Highland should be a spot you visit this summer. With various popular roller coasters that go straight up, straight down, and loop around several times, this is perfect for thrill seekers. Many would like to know that Fuji Q holds various Guinness World Record rides as well, so if you’re looking for a high-energy amusement park, Fuji Q is your best bet. The park has five roller coasters in total, and lines can get pretty long, so it may be best to head to the park early. Address: https://maps.app.goo.gl/EbvjCNZ5pB2ppMGN6 Website: https://www.fujiq.jp/ja Times: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM (6:00 PM on weekends) Ticket: 6000 - 7,800 yen (Check prices for specific age groups on the website) Universal Studios If you’re spending your summer in Osaka, you’ll discover many rides at the city’s Universal Studios that are perfect for a hot summer day with nothing else to do. From rides based on popular series such as Jurassic Park and Harry Potter to Nintendo games and even a few rides based on popular anime, USJ has a great variety to choose from. The park has ten different sections that’ll keep your day busy, whether you are taking photos with mascots walking around the park, enjoying the sectional delicacies, or checking out the many amazing rides. Address: https://maps.app.goo.gl/GBdF2ZGqNbd8NyXr8 Website: https://www.usj.co.jp/web/ja/jp Times: 9:00 AM - 9:00 PM Ticket: (Prices depend on the day/calendar, so make sure to check the month you plan to go, but they tend to aim for around 8,000 yen) Water Parks: Shibamasa World This park, located in Fukui, Japan, opens every summer, boasting some of the largest swimming pools in the country. From twisting water slides to huge pools simulating lapping waves, Shibamasa makes the perfect summer waterpark for families and friends. If you want to dry off before you make your way home, you can take advantage of this park, which is a hybrid water and amusement park, and take a few rides on their high-speed roller coasters. This 560,000 square meter park has enough for everyone to spend a few hours in the summer sun. Make sure to try out their funnel water slide, which is a very popular hit among visitors. Better yet, admission to this park is free! Address: https://maps.app.goo.gl/rMvPUjcsKJDbYRiN7 Website: http://www.shibamasa.com/ Times: Open from March - November (10:00 AM - 5:00 PM) Ticket: Free Tokyo Summerland If you’re looking for a way to kick back during your summer vacation, Tokyo Summerland, home to the longest lazy river pool in Japan, is the place to go. From indoor pools where you can slip down short slides to huge outdoor pools where you can spin around on a huge inner tube with a group of friends, there is something fun and exciting at every location in this park. Tokyo Summerland even has a fun obstacle course and, as mentioned earlier, a relaxing lazy river where you can sit on an inner tube and float around. Whether you’re by yourself, with friends, or with family, this park is suited for people of all ages and groups. Address: https://maps.app.goo.gl/ouSxK3c4B5eJCCgr7 Website: https://www.summerland.co.jp/ Times: 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM Ticket: Starting from 2,600 yen for adults, 1,500 yen for children (check the website’s timetable for specific passes) Seibuen Yuenchi Slightly to the north of Saitama and Tokyo’s border lies a water/amusement park called Seibuen Yuenchi. With four different water slides, a huge wave pool for everyone to enjoy, and various spots for different age groups, anyone can find a way to spend their summer at Seibuen. A great thing about this park is how easy it is to get food if you happen to grow hungry during your time in the park. While taking a break from splashing around in the pools, you can enjoy popular Japanese foods such as takoyaki, yakisoba, somen, and other summer classics. Address: https://maps.app.goo.gl/SoqJDgGxc5hCwipr7 Website: https://www.seibu-leisure.co.jp/amusementpark/index.html Times: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM Ticket: 2,900 yen (adult), 1,900 yen (child) Nagashima Spa Land Located in an area called Kuwana, Nagashima Spa Land has it all, including an amusement park, a water park, shopping districts, an onsen resort, and more; you’ll find it very easy to spend all your time here. If you’re going to Nagashima for the waterpark, you’ll be happy to know that their “Jumbo Seawater Pool” is one of the largest swimming pools in the world. Additionally, just last year, the park introduced a new water slide, “Mega Abyss.” Like other parks, there are indoor pools, but what sets Nagashima apart from others is the fact that they have eleven different water slides, cutting down on the wait times to use them and also giving you several different ways to find some fun this summer. Address: https://maps.app.goo.gl/puETa6tTqm4Gydu5A Website: https://www.nagashima-onsen.co.jp/pool/index.html Times: 9:30 AM - 5:00 PM (7:00 PM during peak season) Ticket: 4,500 yen (adult) 3,000 yen (child) Get Out in the Sun and Have Some Summer Fun! Summer trips can be fun; you just have to know how to make them so! Japan has a wide collection of parks for both entertainment and to allow you to splash around in the water on the very hot days you will experience on your travels. Hopefully, this blog has given you a wide enough range for those searching for a spot to make great memories this summer. From places in the popular cities to spots a bit further away from the hustle and bustle, there are locations all over Japan to spend time in for amusement. With that being said, pick a park, whether more amusement-based or with more refreshing water rides, and spend your summer to the fullest! Featured Photo Credit: grapeejapan For more options of escaping the summer's sweltering heat, book one of summer tours and delve into Japanese cuisine!

Arigato Travel

13.04.2025

Why Join a Food Tour in Japan? | Arigato Travel

As a traveler, coming to a new country can sometimes be overwhelming. It is particularly true in the case of Japan, where each Prefecture, each city, and each area within those cities, have their own specialties and interesting places and eateries to discover. You feel amazed, yet it feels stressful to try and decide which ones are worth your while and which aren’t. Guidebooks can help, but they are not very customizable and just don’t feel personal\. Well, I may have a solution for you. Why not join one of our food tours? A Food Tour? What's that? As the lovely Julie Andrews would say, “Let's start at the very beginning.” What is a Food Tour, you may ask? An excellent question, but an even more important one would be: What is a Food Tour with Arigato Travel, and what added value may it bring to your trip? Okay, so technically those are two questions, but my point still stands. A food tour with Arigato Travel promises you a memorable 3-hour guided tour, including: walking around with a local, strolling off the beaten paths (even in touristy areas there are always hidden streets and shops you won’t find on your own), and exploring hidden passageways. All while discovering their secrets and stories that you would otherwise have missed. Learning about the fundamentals of the neighborhood through its rich history and culture, with a fun and expert guide. But more importantly, it guarantees you a selection of unique unsuspected deliciousness that the area has to offer! Because at Arigato Travel, we use the food as a gateway to introduce you to Japan's amazing culture and traditions! A friendly tour with awesome guides! Today I will talk about our Crazy, Cute, Kawaii Tour, which I highly recommend as you will be able to discover the hidden gems of Harajuku and Omotesando. I joined this tour when I started my internship at Arigato Travel and one of the best parts was the friendliness and knowledgeableness of the guide. She was smiling the entire time and answering any requests or questions that we had. She made sure that everyone was comfortable and at ease, so the overall ambiance was similar to hanging out with your own friend circle. But one thing is for sure, I can personally guarantee you that all the guides at Arigato Travel are very welcoming and friendly, as well as being amazing at their jobs! Making new friends One of the other highlights of taking this tour was that it allowed me to meet fellow travelers and listen to their stories. We all have a reason why we chose Japan as a destination, but have you ever wondered if theirs were similar to yours? When we travel, we tend to prioritize the places we want to visit and focus on ticking them off our bucket list. But don’t forget the human touch of traveling! While traveling solo or with a partner is fun, it is also refreshing to meet new people from different horizons than yours. From faraway lands to neighboring countries, or perhaps even from your own homeland, you never know all the positive impacts a spontaneous interaction could bring you. A food tour is a great way to meet and start new friendships that otherwise wouldn’t have been made possible. After all, doesn't it remind you of the legend of the red string? You chose this tour for a reason, the other person also did, but nothing forewarned the two of you that you would meet this way, right? Destiny, maybe? Meeting with the locals A bonus point is that friendship is limitless, not only will you get to meet other travelers, but you will also get a chance to connect with the locals. All the places we went to, during the tour, were also frequented by native residents, so it was easy to strike up a conversation with them and the staff. Even with a mixture of Japanese and English, it was very agreeable to learn about their view of the area and of its evolution. Secret Alleyways and delightful snacks all the way At the heart of this tour, and what made it so unique, was the guide showing us the core of the area while avoiding overcrowded tourist spots. Instead, she took us through lesser-known passages, to shops and restaurants! These places are adored by the locals, but unfamiliar to the rest of the world - and not even listed on the most popular guidebooks. If you want to discover Japan through the lens of a local, I would sincerely recommend joining one of our tours. Learn the history behind the spots Not only will you get to discover new trendy spots, but you will also get to know the evolution of the places you are going to visit. Learn more about the history of the locations and see for yourself the before and after. Our lovely guides come prepared with an amazing presentation about each spot. Let yourself be immersed in the past and travel back in time to find the origins of what is known today. Embark on a journey full of fun facts and anecdotes and unravel the secrets behind them. Personalized to your needs Whether you want to meet new people and join a group or if you would rather prefer to have a private excursion, anything is possible with us. Our tours have been created with the idea that each one of them should be personalized to cater to your needs. If you have any dietary restrictions, we make sure to find a replacement and accommodate your needs. So please feel free to let us know beforehand! Our wide selection of tours ensures that you get to experience the real Japan and discover its nooks and crannies. May you join us as a couple, as a whole family, or as friends, we want to welcome you for who you are and with welcome arms! We don’t tolerate any discrimination and are 2SLGBTQAI+ friendly and accessible to all. Be your true self, be proud of it, and enjoy every bit of the tour! That’s all we ask for! Featured Photo Credit: Jessica Iragne If you're ready to make new friends, try great food, and explore a small piece of Tokyo like a local, come join our Crazy, Cute, Kawaii Food Tour for an unforgettable experience!

Arigato Travel

09.04.2025

Not Just a Cafe: All You Need to Know About Kissaten | Arigato Travel

Many may be familiar with Japan’s abundance of cafes and spots to get a quick drink, take a break to study, or even catch up on some work. You may think of the lively, sociable atmosphere full of chatter. However, there are certain types of “cafes’ all over Japan, where the atmosphere is quiet, peaceful, and dimly lit. This is called a kissaten, which translates directly to a place with coffee and tea. Cafes nowadays can become quite noisy, so those who wish to eat, drink some coffee, and work, tend to flock to these kissaten for a peaceful and serene atmosphere. Now without further ado, let’s learn more about these calm coffee spots and their culture. What exactly is a kissaten? Kissatens are a distinct type of “cafe,” a spot where customers can enjoy coffee and tea, and a filling meal, especially in the morning. Traditionally, kissaten were locations that would take upon the appearance of a traditional Japanese tearoom that sold coffee. However, in the Showa era and with increased popularity today, kissaten now have a more retro/modern appearance on the interior, adding items such as tea and toast to their menus. The addition of breakfast items has made many use these as a regular spot for their mornings, but they are as equally enjoyed throughout any time of the day. The culture within a kissaten Do you want to know what made kissaten so popular way back in World War Two? It was the fact that you could listen to music on a record player while enjoying coffee - something very unheard of at the time as record players were nearly unattainable. This kind of atmosphere became something unique to kissaten culture, the combination of music and coffee, or tea, if that’s more your style! Because of their long history, these coffee spots are seen as a place to relax, while also soaking in the nostalgia from eras that have come before. To fully feel the culture of any shop you visit, take note of the interior, the music, and the silence while you enjoy your drink of choice. What sets them apart from a cafe? While cafes may have baristas, at kissaten these staff are often referred to as Masters. Additionally, unlike the former, you can feel a more personalized, comfortable experience at a kissaten rather than the rush you may experience at your local, crowded coffee spot. Masters at these coffee locations can make you their own special drink if you so request and are known to pay their customers more personalised attention than a cafe’s staff might. When looking at images of a kissaten you may notice that the interiors are quite dim, with warm lighting scattered gently across the room. This results in a more soothing and welcoming atmosphere, allowing for the perfect place to relax. These spots also specialize in bread and desserts more than their cafe counterparts, whilst also focusing solely on serving tea and coffee, compared to some cafes which also may sell alcohol. Kissaten Recommendations in Tokyo Kayaba Coffee - Yanaka Settled inside a cozy neighborhood bustling with shopping streets, Yanaka holds the perfect kissaten for those searching for a bit of nostalgia to go with their drink of choice. Taking on the exterior of an old home, Kayaba Coffee has been around for seventy years. You won’t be bothered by the sounds of noisy coffee machines or chatter, your only task is to sit back and relax. If you happen to visit Yanaka for their shops or just a simple stroll, make sure to stop by Kayaba to experience a twist on the typical cafe. Address: 6 Chome-1-29 Yanaka, Taito City, Tokyo 110-0001 Opening Hours: 7 days a week, 8 AM - 6 PM Price Range: ¥1,000–2,000 per person Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kayabacoffee/ Pegasus - Asakusa Right near Sensoji Temple, this kissaten destination is perfect if you’re already in the popular Asakusa area! If you’ve had a good start on the busy streets and your own tourism in the area and are looking for a peaceful break before you get back on your feet, this might be the place for you. There is a good selection of sodas, the iconic melon soda, but also thick pieces of toast, and a variety of pasta dishes. Address: 3 Chome-1-10 Nishiasakusa, Taito City, Tokyo 111-0035 Opening Hours: 7 days a week, 11 AM - 6:30 PM Price Range: ¥1–1,000 per person Website: https://ckv3.onushi.com/coffee/ These two locations aren’t even the tip of Japan’s kissaten iceberg. There are so many more places out there for you to discover so where do you start? Check out our blogs on the best Kissatens to visit in Tokyo and Kyoto! Coffee, Please! While many may enjoy their regular cafe spot, it is always good to remember that trying new things is how we can obtain more experiences, and kissaten are a perfect example of that. These coffee spots turn the world of a typical cafe upside down, transforming the atmosphere to a subdued, calming one where you can enjoy new flavors by yourself or with a friend. With how long they have been in Japan, and also their importance in the coffee scene, a visit to at least one is a must for your next trip! Featured Photo Credit: melscoffeetravels If you'll be on a trip this summer, be sure to check out our Summer Food Tours!

Arigato Travel

07.04.2025

Sumo Wrestling: Japan’s National Sport | Arigato Travel

My first experiences in martial arts began at a young age, piquing my interest in the different combat sports from around the world. I’ve always believed that martial arts and combat sports, such as Sumo in Japan, Brazilian Jiujitsu in Brazil, or Muay Thai in Thailand, reveal a lot about the local culture of each sport and their impact on the culture. My first attempt at a Sumo tournament in Osaka was in 2023, and it was a much deeper experience than just two large men shoving each other. Sumo is not just a sport—it’s a living tradition that blends Shinto beliefs, Japanese cultural values, and intense physical combat. While it has modernized in some ways, its essence remains deeply tied to Japan’s spiritual and historical identity. Why is that? Let’s have a look at the 3 pillars of sumo wrestling! 1- Religion (Shinto Influence) Sumo originated as a Shinto ritual to entertain the gods (kami) and ensure a bountiful harvest. The ring (dohyō) is treated as a sacred space, purified with salt before matches—similar to how Shinto shrines are cleansed. Wrestlers perform a ritual stomp (shiko) to drive away evil spirits, a practice linked to ancient religious ceremonies. The yokozuna (grand champion) performs a ring-entering ceremony (dohyō-iri), resembling a Shinto blessing. 2 - Culture (Tradition & Discipline) Sumo embodies Japanese values like respect, discipline, and hierarchy. Wrestlers live in heya (sumo stables), following strict traditions that dictate their daily life, diet (chankonabe), and behavior. Matches are overseen by a gyoji (referee) in elaborate robes, resembling Shinto priests, highlighting the sport’s ritualistic nature. Even today, sumo maintains strict traditional rules, such as the prohibition of women in the ring due to its sacred status. 3 - Combat Sport (Physical Competition) At its core, sumo is a full-contact martial art, where size, technique, and strategy determine victory. Wrestlers train in throws, pushes, and grappling techniques, making sumo a raw yet refined form of combat. Despite its ritualistic elements, sumo remains highly competitive, with professional tournaments (honbasho) drawing massive audiences. Unlike many combat sports, sumo has no weight classes, making size and agility critical factors in matches. Attending the event is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that connects you directly to Japanese traditions. Whilst visiting myself, I saw Geiko and people dressed in traditional attire in the audience. The atmosphere was electrifying, with spectators passionately cheering for their favorite wrestlers, especially the locals. This time, the Osaka crowd was particularly enthusiastic, showing strong support for Kansai-native wrestlers. I sat for hours, captivated by the incredible athletes as they grappled and threw each other around the ring. Sumo wrestling is Japan’s national sport, with origins dating back over 1,500 years. As mentioned before, it began as a Shinto ritual to entertain the gods and ensure a good harvest. Today, it remains deeply rooted in tradition, featuring elaborate ceremonies, including salt purification rituals and strict training regimens at sumo stables (heya). Sumo is a cultural symbol of discipline, hierarchy, and respect—values that are fundamental to Japanese culture. By fusing traditions with contemporary sports and entertainment, it now captures the attention of people from around the world. Six major tournaments (basho, 場所) are staged annually, attracting sizable crowds and preserving sumo's cultural relevance in Japan. Sumo in Osaka The Osaka Grand Sumo Tournament (Haru Basho) is one of the six major sumo tournaments (honbasho) held annually in Japan. It takes place every March at the Edion Arena Osaka, drawing in sumo enthusiasts from across the country. Since Osaka was a significant economic center during the Edo period (1603–1868), sumo tournaments began to be held in the area. Although Edo (present-day Tokyo) and Kyoto were the main centers of sumo, Osaka also established its own sumo culture. The tournament officially joined the professional sumo circuit in 1953, joining other notable events in Tokyo, Nagoya, and Fukuoka. Importance of the Osaka Tournament Regional Excitement – Unlike Tokyo, where sumo is held three times a year, Osaka hosts only one annual basho. This makes it a highly anticipated event for locals and fans in western Japan. Distinct Atmosphere – Osaka fans are known for being lively and vocal, creating a different energy compared to the more reserved audiences in Tokyo. Crucial for Wrestlers – As the second tournament of the year, the Osaka Basho often sets the stage for rankings and momentum leading into the rest of the sumo calendar. Economic & Cultural Impact – The event attracts tourists, boosts local businesses, and reinforces Sumo’s presence outside Tokyo, keeping the sport relevant nationwide. How A Sumo Tournament Works A professional sumo tournament (or basho, 場所) lasts 15 days. The highest-ranked wrestlers (makuuchi and juryo) compete once per day for 15 days, ensuring they face a variety of opponents and avoiding repetition. Lower-ranked wrestlers (makushita, sandanme, jonidan, jonokuchi) only fight 7 times over the 15 days, each wrestler's final record (e.g., 10 wins, 5 losses) determines their rank for the next tournament. There Are Three Key Parts to Understanding the Brackets Here are the three major points you should know to understand how the brackets work. The match schedule is set day by day by the sumo association, adjusting based on ongoing tournament results. Higher-ranked wrestlers (Yokozuna, Ozeki, Sekiwake, etc.) get tougher matchups. The final days feature the strongest contenders battling to decide the champion. Attending a Sumo Tournament Attending a sumo tournament in Osaka is an unforgettable cultural experience that blends tradition, excitement and a deep appreciation for Japan’s national sport. From the moment you step into the arena, the atmosphere is electric—spectators cheer for their favorite rikishi, the echoes of ceremonial chants fill the air, and the intensity of each bout in the arena is ever-present. The event is not just about the matches; it’s a full immersion into sumo culture, from the elaborate pre-fight rituals to the presence of sumo stables. You can purchase drinks, food, and even sumo-related souvenirs inside the stadium—great souvenirs to take home. The event ends at 6 p.m., so be prepared to arrive in time to avoid missing any of the action. The best fights will begin between 2 and 3 p.m. You will be fully immersed in Japan's rich heritage. Making it to the event is a must-see experience for anyone exploring the country. It is truly an experience that I cannot suggest enough. If you’d like to learn more about what to do before attending a sumo tournament, check out our blog here! Our Must-See Tips For Sumo Wrestling Matches Get Your Tickets Early Sumo tournaments are popular, and good seats sell out fast. Purchase your tickets in advance through official websites like the Japan Sumo Association or authorized sellers. If you can't get a reserved seat, limited same-day tickets are available but require arriving early. Choose the Right Seat Box Seats (Masu-seki): Closer to the ring, traditional Japanese seating (cushions on the floor). Great for an authentic experience. Arena Seats: More affordable and come with regular chairs, offering a comfortable view from a distance. Arrive Early to Explore Doors open around 8 AM, but top matches happen between 3–6 PM. Arriving early lets you see lower-ranked bouts and enjoy the atmosphere. Walk around the arena to check out sumo souvenirs, food stalls, and the sumo museum. Try Sumo-Themed Food Look for Chanko Nabe, the traditional hotpot sumo wrestlers eat. Some venues may sell it, or you can visit a local “chanko” nabe restaurant after the event. Respect the Traditions Sumo has deep cultural roots. Avoid loud cheering during ceremonies and respect the rituals before and after each match. Don't throw cushions (zabuton) in the air, even if a big upset happens (this used to be common but is now discouraged). Watch for Wrestlers Entering and Leaving Before the top-division matches, wrestlers perform an entrance ceremony (Dohyō-iri). Seeing them up close in their traditional attire is a highlight. After matches, sumo wrestlers often walk outside the arena—perfect for photos or autographs (if they allow it). Check for Special Events Some tournaments feature exhibitions or fan activities. Check the schedule to see if there are unique opportunities like meet-and-greets or sumo practice sessions. Sumo tournaments are popular and culturally important events, so it shouldn’t come as a surprise that they typically sell out quickly. But something like this shouldn’t stop you from attending for an experience of a lifetime. Whether you’re sitting in the box seats or the more affordable arena seats, be prepared to become enveloped by the traditional, exciting atmosphere born from not only the match but the pre-match rituals. Don’t forget to check for special events, you don’t want to miss out on any exhibitions and fan activities, and who knows you might even get to try a bit of wrestling for yourself! There is so much on offer at a Sumo Wrestling Tournament even non-sports fans or those new to the world are sure to enjoy it. I love attending these events and hope to see many, many more in the future, the only thing that might make it better is if I see you there! Featured Photo Credit: AQ_taro_neo More Info: https://www.sumo.or.jp/En/ Coming to Japan and want to see a Sumo match? Reach out to our team of experts to for a custom request.

Arigato Travel

06.04.2025

TASTE OF UENO: PARK, ZOO, SAKURA SPOT, CULTURAL AND GASTRONOMIC CENTER | Arigato Travel

Ueno (上野), built on a hilly area commonly known as

Arigato Travel

04.04.2025

What’s the future of international food tourism in post-coronavirus Japan? | Arigato Travel

THE JAPAN TIMES: What’s the future of international food tourism in post-coronavirus Japan? Author: Florentyna Leow 2020 dealt a massive blow to Japan’s hospitality industry. The Japan Times discusses the challenging situation and talks about how culinary tourism businesses adapted to this substantial change by offering virtual experiences, mentioning Arigato Japan as one of the companies to offer such alternatives. BACK TO MEDIA PAGE

Arigato Travel

04.04.2025

Unlocking the Secrets of Japanese Convenience Stores: Tips & Tricks | Arigato Travel

Convenience stores (コンビニ, pronounced Konbini) in Japan are like wonderlands for travellers; Snacks, drinks, bentos, fried foods, and all the late-night trips to the nearby convenience stores. Such good memories. But did you know you can do much more than just getting food and drinks? In this blog, we summarized the best insider tips and tricks you can try at convenience stores to make your trip even more accessible and fun! Topping Up Your IC Card Running out of credit on your IC card (Suica, Pasmo, etc)? You can top it up with cash at all convenience stores in Japan by telling the staff at the cashier “Suica/Icoca/Pasmo cha-ji, onegaishimasu (Please top up my Suica/Icoca/Pasmo Card).” Select the amount you want to top up on the screen, pay, and simply tap your card on the reader. You can also do it with the ATMs at 7-11, which offers easy multilingual instructions. This is super handy when you’re nowhere near a train station but still need to top up. Remember, in Japan, people say “charge” instead of “top up” when you are informing the staff what you want to do! Printing Photos and Documents Almost every konbini has a multi-function printer, where you can print documents from your phone or USB, make photocopies, and even print high-quality photos by simply downloading an app to transfer the photos to the machines you are using! The easiest way to do it as a tourist is to download the app made for printing in convenience stores. Search up the convenience store name you are using plus the keyword “printing” on the app store, download and follow the instructions by the app. A QR Code should be generated for your printing project. Simply scan the QR code, pay directly at the printer, and complete your printing project! Try this when you’re in Japan and print photos of wonderful travel memories. Buy Stamps & Send Mail Need to send a postcard back home? You can actually buy stamps at the register and even find a mailbox inside or just outside many convenience stores. Stamps in Japan are called “Kitte” (pronounced, kit-teh). You can also tell the staff the value of the stamp you want to purchase, starting from 85 yen. The safest option for overseas postcards is to get a stamp with a value of 110 yen. It's a quick and convenient way to share your Japan experience without hunting for a post office. Getting Seasonal Food When winter hits, oden makes its appearance at konbini. This warm, comforting dish features ingredients like daikon radish, tofu, and fish cakes boiled in a light soy-based broth. It’s the perfect item to get in a Japanese convenience store because you literally can’t experience this elsewhere! You will see these oden stations near the cashier. Don’t be intimidated, just open the lid, grab a bowl and the tongs, pick your favorites, and hand them to the cashier. Want to see how it’s done? Check out this walkthrough video made by 7-11 Japan! But winter is not the only season you can get special seasonal food in konbini. For example, in summer, look out for the freezer section because some konbini have limited summer-flavored shaved-ice desserts and frappuccinos you can make at their machines. In autumn, some konbini have a designated oven where they sell freshly baked sweet potatoes (Yakiimo). Finally, in spring, look out for the sakura-flavored mochi and dango for when you are going to view the sakura blossoms. Want to know where is the best place to view sakuras in Japan? Check out our Sakura Viewing Tours, available only in spring! Discounted Theme Park Tickets Want to skip the lines and save money on theme park tickets? Konbini ticket machines are your secret weapon! These machines sell tickets for various leisure facilities, often at discounted rates. For example, the entrance fee + free pass for Asakusa Hanayashiki is normally ¥3,300 for adults, but at a konbini, it’s only ¥2,700, saving you ¥600! Theme parks like Sanrio Puroland and Yomiuriland also offer discounts of around ¥100, which adds up quickly if you’re buying for the whole family. Skip the hassle at the ticket window and get your tickets before heading out, it's a smart and budget-friendly way to start your adventure! Pay Your Utility Bills If you’re staying in Japan for a longer period and renting an apartment, you can pay your utility bills at a konbini. Simply bring your bill to the cashier, and they’ll process it for you. No need to go to a bank or post office, but make sure you don't miss the deadline for the bill because an expired bill cannot be processed at a convenience store! Shop for Clothes & Everyday Essentials Forgot your socks? Need an umbrella on a rainy day? Many konbini carry basic clothing items like T-shirts, socks, and underwear, as well as practical household items like phone chargers, laundry detergent, and toiletries. Some convenience stores even carry limited items, for example, Family Mart has socks that are in the color of, you guessed it, Family Mart’s iconic green and blue color! Seasonal Sweets & Drinks Konbini are famous for their seasonal snacks and drinks. Depending on the time of year, you’ll find everything from sakura-flavored snacks in spring to chestnut treats in autumn. Look for words like “期間限定” or “限定” on the various food items. Don’t miss out on the wide selection of limited-edition drinks and sweets! Final Thoughts Konbini are truly a traveler’s best friend in Japan, and there’s so much more than simply getting snacks and drinks. So next time you step into a konbini, take a moment and try these tricks, you will find a whole new world beyond the snack aisle! Featured Photo Credit: INHYEOK PARK on Unsplash Ready for a trip to Japan? Be sure to check out some of our amazing food tours around Japan's most popular destinations!

Arigato Travel

04.04.2025

Hidden cherry blossom spots you need to visit! | Arigato Travel

Have you ever heard the Japanese word Anaba (穴場)? Anaba is used to describe a “hidden gem” or “off-the-beaten-path” place where it may not be one of the most famous, but still, it is so beautiful and unique that it’s worth a visit. It is commonly used by locals when talking about a place that few tourists go to and offers a unique experience and amazing landscapes. In this post, we’ll present you some of the best “Anaba spots” that will definitely amaze you. Prefectural Gongendo Park - Saitama With more than 1000 cherry blossom trees that line up, creating a 1 km long tunnel, Gongendo Park in Saitama prefecture is one of our hidden sightseeing spots. The cherry blossoms are in full bloom from late March to early April, and during that time, the park holds a Sakura festival, where you can enjoy Hand-made breads, teas, and snacks. You can also buy souvenirs and enjoy illuminated cherry blossom trees at night. The park also has a day camp place for you to enjoy nature and an amazing kids' section filled with playground equipment for children to enjoy. Its business hours in March begin at 8:30, so it’s an amazing place to start the day and get some fresh air. The Gongendo cherry blossoms are a must-see for those who are looking to enjoy a unique experience in Japan. The entrance to the park is free and you can easily access it from Tokyo, just take the Tobu Nikko line to Satte Station, and from there is a quick bus ride or 30-minute walk. Whether you are looking for a place to take pictures, relax, or have a picnic, this park is an excellent option. Address: 887-3 Uchigouma, Satte, Saitama 340-0103 Fee: Free Hours: 8:30~17:00 Tenpyo no Oka Park, Tochigi In Tenpyo no Oka Park, located in Tochigi, the cherry blossoms can be enjoyed for a whole month due to the variety of species in the park. With more than 500 cherry trees, the whole park becomes a pink paradise from late March to early May. In 2024, the 46th ‘Tenpyo Flower Festival’ was held. There, you can enjoy amazing local food stalls, stage performances, cultural exhibitions, and ride a replica of a steam locomotive called “Bouchan.” The park is also famous for the night light-ups, which, combined with the delicate cherry blossoms, create a romantic scenario and a perfect spot for those who enjoy photography. To get to the park is simple. Take the JR Utsunomiya line to Ishibashi station, and then it's a short bus ride. The entrance is free, and the working hours are from 10:00 to 17:30 and 10:00 to 20:30 during the night illumination season (from March to April). Tenpyo no Oka Park is the perfect choice for those looking for a blend of culture, nature, and history. The variety of Cherry Blossom species creates a unique place and amazing experience. Address: 993-1 Kokubunji, Shimotsuke, Tochigi 329-0417 Fee: Free Hours: 10:00~17:30 (in March) 10:00~20:30 (during night illumination season) Fukuokazeki Sakura Park, Ibaraki In Tsukubamirai, located in Ibaraki prefecture, more than 450 types of cherry blossoms are lined up, creating a 1.8 km tunnel along with one of the most famous aqueducts in Japan. Through other parts of the park, you can enjoy more than 600 cherry blossom trees planted. You can enjoy the cherry blossoms from March, with their full bloom in the first week of April. They also hold an annual Fukuokazeki Cherry Blossom Festival, with plenty of food trucks and tents. You can enjoy dishes like Ramen, sweet potatoes, rice balls covered with meat, and much more. They also have a stage set up near the trees, so you can enjoy watching performances while having a picnic under the cherry blossoms. You can take the JR East Joban Line to Kitasenju Station and from there take the Tsukuba Express to Midorinoe Station. Be careful if you’re going by car because there’s a parking fee of 500 yen. Fukuokazeki offers an authentic experience for those looking for an off-the-beaten-path destination during spring. Address: 300-2407 Ibaraki, Tsukubamirai, Kitayama, 2633−７ Fee: Entrance free (parking fee of 500 yen) Hours: 24 hours Takeda Castle Ruins, Hyogo The Takeda Castle Ruins, also known as the “Castle Floating in the Skies,” is a short hiking spot located in Hyogo prefecture. It takes about 20 to 30 minutes to get to the top, and the view in the morning with the sea of clouds is breathtaking. Although during spring, the chances of having a sea of clouds are low, the view itself with the cherry blossoms is definitely something you don’t want to miss when visiting the area. This is a place where history and nature mix perfectly, and those who are passionate about Japanese culture will be amazed by the sight. It is easy to access from Tokyo, just having to take the Tokaido Line to Himeji and then transferring to the JR Bantan Line. The working hours from March to May are from 8:00 to 18:00 and it has an admission fee of 500 yen per person. The historical charm of the castle’s ruins and the beauty of the cherry blossoms create a stunning atmosphere for those looking for an unforgettable experience. Address: 〒669-5252 Hyogo, Asago, Wadayamacho Takeda Fee: 500 yen per person Hours: 5:00~17:00 Kaizu Osaki, Shiga Located beside Lake Biwa, the biggest lake in Japan, Kaizu Osaki is famous for its 4 km cherry blossom tree wall. The reflection of the delicate cherry blossom flowers on the serene water, makes this spot one of the best for those looking for a relaxing walk or picnic. One of the main attractions in this hidden spot is the “Hanami Cruise:” Departing and arriving at the Nagahama depot is a two-and-a-half hour cruise where you have the chance to have a walk at the Kaizu Osaki port. The sailing fee is 4,000 yen for adults and 2,000 yen for children. It sails from late March to early April, and there are three different departure times in a day. Also, the second departure of the day (at 12:15) is a little bit more expensive ( 8,000 yen for adults and 6,000 yen for children), but you get to eat a “Hanami Bento,” a traditional meal, part of hanami (cherry blossom viewing) culture, which is made with seasonal ingredients and carefully put together to reflect the beauty of the cherry blossoms. You can get to the lake from Tokyo by taking a shinkansen to Maibara Station and after that taking the local bus. It will be a 20-minute ride where you can enjoy the city’s landscapes. Address: 〒520-1811 Shiga, Takashima, Makino City, Kaizu Osaki Fee: Cruise (adult 4,000~8,000 yen, child 2,000~6,000 yen) Hours: 24 hours Senkoji Park, Hiroshima Besides Mount Senkoji, the Senkoji Park has one of the most beautiful Sakura scenes in Hiroshima. With more than 1,500 cherry blossom trees, the whole park lights up during the night, so you can enjoy a view you’ve never seen before. The best view of the park is definitely from the top of the mountain, but even if you don’t want to hike, no worries! There is a ropeway that will take you to the top! The one-way ticket is 300 yen, and the round-trip ticket is 500 yen. Because of its scenic views, relaxing ambiance, and seasonal beauty, Senkoji is also known as one of the “Lover’s Sanctuaries” in Japan, making it a famous couple’s destination. In the park, they sell many goods such as cookies, matching keychains and shirts, and locks with keys that you can lock your love on the “Lover’s Bridge” inside the park. To get there, take the shinkansen from Tokyo to Fukuyama Station, transfer to the Sanyo Line (to Ominichi), and walk for about 15 minutes to the park. Address: 19-1 Nishitsuchidocho, Onomichi, Hiroshima 722-0032 Fee: Ropeway (300/500 yen) Hours: The park is 24 hours, but the ropeway works from 9:00 to 17:00 The Nicchu Line Weeping Cherry Blossoms, Okayama Be prepared to see cherry blossoms as never before! The Nicchu Line, located in Okayama prefecture, displays weeping cherry trees that look like they came straight out of a fantasy movie. Weeping cherry trees, called Shidarezakura in Japan, are known for their hanging branches that create dreamy scenery. Even though the line isn’t working anymore, it is still kept as a scenic route for those who love photography or for those who just want to enjoy a different atmosphere. The cherry blossom trees create a 1.2 km long curtain, creating a stunning sakura avenue. The unique view, low rate of visitors, and beautiful setting create a romantic mood, making it really popular among couples. The weeping cherry blossoms bloom slightly later than the usual ones (mid to late April), so it is a good destination for late-season sakura viewing. It is a little far away from Tokyo but definitely worth it! Take the Shinkansen from Tokyo to Okayama, then transfer to the Sanyo Line to Kurashiki station and from there it is a 15 minutes local bus ride. Address: 〒966-0896, Suwa, Kitakata Shi, Fukushima Ken Fee: Free Hours: 24 hours Uncover the hidden cherry blossoms in Japan! Japan’s cherry blossom season offers a special experience for anyone wanting to explore its off-the-beaten-path sights. Whether you want to enjoy a picnic with your family or enjoy an adventurous experience discovering Japan’s history and culture, there’s an “anaba” perfect for you. From the serene Gongendo Park to the breathtaking view of the Takeda Castle Ruins, each scenery provides a remarkable experience made just for you. Visit those sites and find a Japanese cherry blossom experience you have never heard of! Featured Photo Credit: Fukushima Travel Official Tourism Information Website If you'd like a to have a truly local experience viewing Japan's cherry blossoms, come join one of our Cherry Blossom Tours!

Arigato Travel

04.04.2025

Tokyo Shibuya, the guide to get the most out of Tokyo’s most iconic neighborhood | Arigato Travel

VIAJES NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC: Tokyo Shibuya, the guide to get the most out of Tokyo's most iconic neighborhood Author: Jose Alejandro Adamuz Jose of National Geographic gives Spanish-speaking readers a few reasons to take Arigato Japan's Shibuya Street Food Tour! BACK TO MEDIA PAGE

Arigato Travel

02.04.2025

Trailblazing Tales: Interview, The HakuLife Experience | Arigato Travel

Picture this: waking up and looking out at white snow-capped mountains in a luxurious villa with your own private chefs and butlers pampering you during your stay. If you think that’s something out of a movie, I can assure you that it’s not! At HakuVillas, found in the Upper Hirafu Village, this dream can be made into a reality! But don’t just take it from me. Today, we’re going to learn a little more about HakuLife experience at HakuVillas from the source themselves! Let’s jump right in shall we? Hello! Before we begin, can you please introduce yourself? H2 Group is in the lifestyle real estate business, nestled in the heart of Niseko, Japan's premier ski destination. We specialize in real estate, development management, property management, and hospitality, offering a comprehensive suite of services to meet diverse needs. H2 Christie's International Real Estate specializes in buying and selling land and properties, offering comprehensive value throughout the development process. In property development, we bring innovative designs and meticulous craftsmanship to life, creating premium properties that stand the test of time. Our property management services ensure that every aspect of ownership and guest stay is handled with care—from maintenance and housekeeping to concierge services—offering a hassle-free and enjoyable experience. Our hospitality services offer a wide range of accommodations, and beautiful properties such as chalets, condominiums, and apartments across three unique collections. Whether you are looking for a holiday retreat, a long-term investment, or professional property management, H2 Group is your trusted partner in Niseko, delivering excellence and satisfaction in every facet of our business. I’m sure our readers may be wondering so, can you explain to us what exactly is HakuLife? HakuLife is the ultra-luxury arm of H2Group and the pioneering force behind Niseko's ultra-luxury hospitality sector. We proudly present a new benchmark of excellence and international alpine luxury with its two flagship properties nestled in the heart of Hirafu Niseko—HakuVillas and Hakuchōzan—and a recent addition, HakuKelo in Hawaii. How was the concept of HakuVillas born and what makes it stand out from other villas? The concept of HakuVillas was born from the founder's vision of bringing Swiss Alpine hospitality for the ultra-high-net-worth to Niseko. Following the success of our flagship property, Hakuchōzan, we sought to expand our offerings to this elite clientele, leading to the development of HakuVillas, which has a 1 x 3-floor penthouse (6,117 sq. ft, 16 pax capacity), and 3 x full-floor villas (3,197 sq. ft, 10 pax capacity). Hirafu village is renowned for its snowy paradise found in Hokkaido. What can guests expect to experience in and around the village and at the villas? Hirafu Village, a snowy paradise nestled in Hokkaido, offers guests a wealth of experiences both in and around the village and at HakuVillas. In Hirafu Village, visitors can enjoy world-class skiing and snowboarding, with some of the best powder snow in the world. The village itself boasts a vibrant après-ski scene, featuring gourmet dining, lively bars, and unique shopping opportunities. At HakuVillas, guests can expect unparalleled luxury and comfort. Each villa is meticulously designed to provide a serene retreat with expansive views of Mount Yotei. The villas offer spacious living areas, private onsens, and a personal team of private chefs and chalet hosts to cater to every need. Our team at HakuLife are artisans of luxury experiences, focusing on every detail of the service provided within our luxurious properties. Every experience is crafted with precision and care to ensure that our guests feel pampered, valued, and indulged throughout their stay, building lasting memories of living the HakuLife. Whether exploring the charming village or relaxing in the opulent villas, guests are guaranteed an unforgettable experience in Hirafu. We are very much foodies at Arigato Travel, so it would be a crime to not ask: What is the food experience like? At HakuVillas, the food experience is a true highlight of your stay. The day begins with a delightful breakfast as you wake up to the crackling firewood. Guests can choose from a variety of Asian and Western breakfast options, with coffee made exactly to their liking. Over a 7-day stay, we provide three exceptional dine-in dinners, each crafted using Hokkaido's freshest ingredients. For dinner, our private chef team offers an exquisite variety of menus, including an 8-course Western menu, the most sumptuous Nabe (hotpot), and many other gourmet selections, ensuring a culinary journey that delights every palate. We also cater to guests' special requests whenever possible, tailoring every meal to meet your personal preferences and dietary needs. Additionally, our daily après-ski has become a highlight for our guests, offering a perfect way to unwind and enjoy gourmet snacks and beverages after a day on the slopes. Whether it's a romantic dinner or a family feast, dining at HakuVillas is an experience of indulgence and culinary excellence. Can you run through a typical day with the HakuLife experience? At HakuVillas, the day begins with guests waking up to stunning white-out sceneries and, in most rooms, a majestic view of Mount Yotei. Breakfast, freshly cooked and served by the chalet host and private chef team, starts the day. The host reviews the day’s itinerary, ensuring guests are well-prepared. After breakfast, guests get ready for the slopes with all ski equipment packed into the car by the staff. A car and driver are ready to drop them off at their chosen resort. When skiing is done, the driver will be waiting to take them to lunch, either back at the villa or at a pre-booked restaurant. Around 3 pm, après-ski is served in the villa's bar area or the Mancave for Penthouse guests. This is the perfect time to relax in the outdoor private onsen, play in the golf simulator room, or enjoy a massage in one of the three spa rooms or their own spa room in the Penthouse. In the evening, a sumptuous dinner is served in-house, where everyone gathers around the dinner table to share stories and memories from the day. After dinner, guests can break into smaller groups to play board games, sit around the firepit to enjoy marshmallows, or simply relax by the fireplace with whisky. For ultimate relaxation, a pre-bedtime massage can be arranged to perfectly end the day. Of course, I am sure your guests visit you during winter for skiing. But can you please tell us more about the other seasons? What are the available activities in Summer for example? While Niseko is renowned for its winter skiing, it transforms into a vibrant playground of activities in the other seasons, particularly in summer. Temperatures in Summer are considered mild—between 15°C and 25°C—perfect for outdoor activities. Guests can explore the lush greenery and stunning vistas of Mount Yotei through hiking and nature trails, or enjoy scenic cycling and challenging mountain biking routes. Golf enthusiasts can play on world-class courses set against breathtaking backdrops, while the region’s rivers offer exciting rafting and kayaking experiences. Fishing in Niseko's rivers and lakes provides a serene escape, and horseback riding tours allow visitors to take in the beauty of the landscape. Farm visits and fruit picking, especially during berry season, offer a taste of local produce. Onsen (hot springs) remain a year-round attraction, perfect for relaxing amidst the lush summer scenery. Wellness seekers can join yoga and wellness retreats, and cultural experiences like local festivals and tea ceremonies provide a glimpse into the rich heritage of the region. Whether seeking adventure, relaxation, or cultural enrichment, Niseko offers a diverse range of activities to enjoy beyond the winter season. Are there any features that are your favorite or any that you would highly recommend to guests? This is difficult, as we love so many things in and around Niseko. But if we had to pick one feature, it’s the onsens. In addition to your own private onsen with a view of Mount Yotei, there are many other public onsens that are set up very differently, all of which have their own charm. We highly suggest guests try a few of these during their stay here in Niseko. It’s been lovely meeting you and learning more about the HakuLife experience! Is there anything else that you would like to share with our readers? Well, staying at HakuVillas or Hakuchōzan is an experience that cannot be fully described in our answers above. As our objective is for our guests to have a home away from home while basking in luxury and pampering, the experiences we curate and create for them can vary between guests, but ultimately, we would like them to feel totally spoilt, comfortable and maximize their enjoyment of Niseko while staying at the HakuLife properties. Thank you for taking the time to answer some of our questions! I’m sure our readers have found it just as insightful as I did. If anyone is looking for a unique Japanese experience please don’t hesitate to check out the HakuLife experience! And if you want to learn more don’t hesitate to check out their SNS linked below: Website: www.hakulife.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/S24EmeLBmTWDvwVr/?mibextid=LQQJ4d Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/h2lifejapan?igsh=MXd4bmdyM3lvNHprNg%3D%3D&utm_source=qr Featured Photo Credit: Hakulife If you're traveling to Japan this spring, come join one of our Cherry Blossom tours for an unforgettable experience!

Arigato Travel

30.03.2025

Things To Do in Tokyo In April 2025 | Arigato Travel

April is a magical time to visit Tokyo, with cherry blossoms in full bloom and many lively spring festivals. The warm weather is perfect for picnics, exploring trendy neighborhoods, and enjoying seasonal treats. Whether you’re looking for a cultural experience, delicious food, or vibrant nightlife, there’s something for everyone. Here are some of the best things to do in Tokyo in April. Tsutsuji Matsuri Tsutsuji Matsuri is a spring festival showcasing azalea plants in full bloom, held at the historic Nezu Shrine. Visitors can stroll through beautifully landscaped azalea gardens and admire the colorful flowers. The festival also features traditional performances, local food stalls, and a chance to experience Japan’s seasonal beauty in a cultural setting! Date: April 1, 2025 - April 30, 2025 Time: 9:30am - 5:30pm Admission: ¥500 Location: Nezu Shrine - 1 Chome-28-9 Nezu, Bunkyo City, Tokyo 113-0031, Japan Website: https://nedujinja.or.jp/tsutsuji/ Japan Hobby Show The Japan Hobby Show will feature a variety of creative exhibitors, showcasing the latest trends in crafts, DIY, and handmade goods. Attendees can explore workshops, demonstrations, and exclusive products from artists and brands across various hobbies. Whether you’re into sewing, resin art, or woodworking, the event promises endless inspiration for hobbyists of all levels. Date: April 17, 2025 - April 19, 2025 Time: 10:00am - 5:00pm Admission: ¥1,700 Location: Tokyo Big Sight - 3 Chome-11-1 Ariake, Koto City, Tokyo 135-0063, Japan Website: https://2025.hobbyshow.jp/ Tokyo Art Tank Vol. 13 Tokyo Art Tank is an art event showcasing bold and fascinating artwork from local artists. This year’s theme highlights the beauty of spring in Tokyo, specifically cherry blossoms. Throughout the week, they’re also hosting free yoga and art classes, along with open-mic poetry readings, and live performances! If you’re looking for a fun and creative time, this event is worth checking out! Date: April 7, 2025 - April 13, 2025 Time: Monday 4pm - 10pm Tuesday 11am - 8pm Wednesday 11am - 10pm Thursday 11am - 10pm Friday 11am - 11pm Saturday 11am - 11pm Sunday 11am - 6pm Admission: Free Location: GALLERY・CONCEAL・SHIBUYA - Japan, 〒150-0043 Tokyo, Shibuya, Dogenzaka, 1 Chome−11−4 第１富士商事ビル 4F Website: https://www.thespiltink.com/tokyo-art-tank Yoyogi Park Wanwan Carnival Wan Wan Carnival is a dog-themed event where pet lovers can enjoy a variety of activities with their furry friends. The festival features interactive experiences for your pets, along with vendors selling all things dog-related! If you’re looking to bring your canine companion for a fun day out, this event is for you! Date: April 12, 2025 - April 13, 2025 Time: 10:00am - 5:00pm Admission: Free Location: Yoyogi Park - 2-1 Yoyogikamizonocho, Shibuya, Tokyo 151-0052, Japan Website: https://wanwancarnival.com/ Earth Day Tokyo Earth Day Tokyo is an annual event promoting sustainability, environmental awareness, and community action through workshops, live performances, and eco-friendly markets. People come together to celebrate and learn about ways to keep our planet green. The festival fosters a sense of collective responsibility for our planet through a fun and inspiring atmosphere! Date: April 19, 2025 - April 20, 2025 Time: 10:00am - 7:00pm (4/19), 10:00am - 6:00pm (4/20) Admission: Free Location: Yoyogi Park - 2-1 Yoyogikamizonocho, Shibuya, Tokyo 151-0052, Japan Website: https://www.earthday-tokyo.org/2024/10/03/13603 Vegan Gourmet Festival The Vegan Gourmet Festival is back and offering a diverse selection of plant-based foods. The event attracts food lovers and health-conscious visitors eager to explore creative, meat-free cuisine. Date: April 20, 2025 Time: 10:30 am - 4:00pm Admission: Free Location: Kiba Park - 4 Chome-6-1 Hirano, Koto City, Tokyo 135-0023, Japan Website: https://vegefes.com/ Ryogoku Nigiwai Festival Ryogoku Nigiwai Festival is a traditional sumo exhibition where people can watch top-ranked sumo wrestlers perform in a ceremonial setting while also enjoying chanko-nabe or sumo soup. This is a great opportunity to experience watching sumo in its sacred and traditional form. Date: April 26, 2025 - April 27, 2025 Time: 10:00am - 4:00pm Admission: Free Location: RYŌGOKU STATION - 1 Chome-3-20 Yokoami, Sumida City, Tokyo 130-0015, Japan Website: https://kokugikan-st.com/event/post-517 Nakizumo Crying Baby Festival Nakizumo, or Crying Baby Festival, is a centuries-old tradition held at various temples across the country. Sumo wrestlers gently hold babies while trying to make them cry. The belief is that a strong, loud cry brings good health and wards off evil spirits to ensure a prosperous future for the child. Date: April 29, 2025 Time: Begins 11:30 - Check the website for session times Admission: ¥17,000 Location: Yukigaya Hachiman Shrine - 2 Chome-25-1 Higashiyukigaya, Ota City, Tokyo 145-0065, Japan Website: https://yukigaya.info/isshinnaki/index.htm Kon-kon Kutsu Ichi “Shoe Festival” Kon Kon Kutsu Ichi, or Shoe Festival, is a unique festival dedicated to celebrating shoes! Visitors can bring their worn-out shoes for a ceremonial farewell, shop for high-quality handmade footwear, and enjoy traditional performances. This event highlights Japan’s appreciation for craftsmanship and the belief in showing gratitude to everyday items. Date: April 27, 2025 - April 28, 2025 Time: 9:00am - 5:00pm Admission: Free Location: Tamahime Inari Shrine - Japan, 〒111-0022 Tokyo, Taito City, Kiyokawa, 2 Chome−13−20 玉姫稲荷神社社務所 Website: https://www.city.taito.lg.jp/event/kanko/konkonkutsuichi.html Craft Gyoza Fes Craft Gyoza Fes is a food festival celebrating dumplings of different flavors and cook-styles. This event brings together top gyoza makers offering everything from traditional pan-fried dumplings to innovative variations with diverse fillings and sauces. It’s a must visit for gyoza lovers looking to indulge in Japan’s favorite bite-sized comfort food. Date: April 25, 2025 - May 6, 2025 Time: 11:00am - 8:00pm (Weekdays), 10:00am - 8:00pm (Weekend) Admission: Free Location: Central Square - 1-1 Komazawakoen, Setagaya City, Tokyo 154-0013, Japan Website: https://craftgyoza.jp/fes/ Niku Fest “Meat Festival” Niku Fest is a massive food festival dedicated to yakiniku! This event features top chefs and restaurants serving high-quality beef, pork, and chicken dishes. From sizzling wagyu steaks to juicy barbecue skewers, this is a meat lover’s paradise! Date: April 26, 2025 - May 6, 2025 Time: Varies by Session Admission: ¥12,000 Location: Odaiba Aomi Area P Sector - 1 Chome-1 Aomi, Koto City, Tokyo 135-0064, Japan Website: https://t.livepocket.jp/t/9irpi Tokyo in April is full of lively festivals, delicious food, and cultural experiences that make the city feel more exciting than ever. From unique traditions to modern celebrations, there’s always something new to discover. With sunny weather and a vibrant atmosphere, it’s the perfect time to explore and enjoy everything Tokyo has to offer! Featured Photo Credit: Aimuse After enjoying some of these great festivals and events in Tokyo, come join one of our food tours guided by a local!

Arigato Travel

28.03.2025

Things to do in Osaka in April 2025 | Arigato Travel

Osaka is a big city whose unique blend of urban, cultural, and edible delights has made it a perennial favorite amongst travelers both within and outside of Japan. So, you know it's saying something when we propose that April might be the perfect month to experience the city to the fullest. Of course, the warm weather as spring has settled in makes it that much more enjoyable for sightseeing, letting you comfortably hop from one place to another. Not to mention the fact that the cherry blossoms would have fully bloomed by the end of March/early April, making Osaka’s already picture-perfect sites even more snapshot-worthy. But with the blooming of the cherry blossoms comes also a cultural blossoming, which sees events – of nature, tradition, and the future that is to come – popping up throughout the country. Catch the ephemeral beauty of these beautiful flowers as well as festivals that you can only experience this April – in some cases, literally, only on this year’s April – in ever so charming Osaka: Hanami Spots Osaka Castle This symbolic landmark of Osaka also happens to be one of the best spots for cherry blossom viewing, or “hanami.” With over 3,000 trees blossoming all at once at the base of the castle, it truly becomes a sight to behold. Out of all of this, 300 are gathered in Nishinomaru Garden, which offers perfect views of the castle and its surrounding moat as well as night illuminations of the cherry blossoms. Make use of the hectares of lush open land and lay down a picnic blanket under the falling petals for a proper hanami experience. Date: Early - Mid-April Time: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM (main castle tower and Nishinomaru Garden), open 24 hours for Osaka Castle Park Location: 1-1 Osakajo, Chuo-ku, Osaka, 540-0002 Website: https://www.osakacastle.net/ Price: Free for Osaka Castle Park, 350 yen for Nishinomaru Garden during cherry blossom season Osaka Mint Bureau The head office of the Japan Mint is not just responsible for the issuance of coins, as once a year, it graciously opens its garden gates to share the beauty of its 300 cherry blossom trees with the world. Consisting of 141 varieties, the majority are of the “yaezakura” kind, which has more than five petals per flower and makes for especially fluffy-looking cherry blossoms. Stroll along the Okawa River under the 560-meter tunnel formed by these cute blossoms, which really resemble lavish lanterns under the evening illumination. Date: Early - Mid-April Time: 10:00 AM - 7:30 PM (weekdays), 9:00 AM - 7:30 PM (weekend) Location: 1-1-79 Tenma, Kita-ku, Osaka, 530-0043 Website: https://www.mint.go.jp/eng/enjoy-eng/sakura-eng Price: Free (advance reservation through the website might be required) Expo ‘70 Commemorative Park (& Osaka Wheel) The site of the 1970 Osaka Expo is yet another popular spot for hanami, with its 5,000 cherry blossom trees scattered in between wide lawns, lush forests, and stunning flower gardens. Have a relaxing picnic under the trees or wander around to feel the full, unprecedented scope of nature found right in the middle of this bustling city. You can also visit the Japan Folk Crafts Museum, rent a paddle boat to discover underwater sculptures, and try to find all the remnants from the old Expo – the easiest of which to spot is the gigantic Tower of the Sun sculpture overlooking the cherry blossom trees. This park offers many activities to keep the whole family busy throughout the day, ensuring that time flies by until the evening light-up. Snap pics of a 200-meter-long street of cherry blossom trees with Japan’s largest Ferris wheel in the background. Better yet, you can actually get on the wheel where you can enjoy exclusive views from above with cherry blossom-flavored sweets and drinks in hand! Date: Mid-March - Early April, March 3rd - June 30th (Osaka Wheel cherry blossom event) Time: 9:30 AM - 9:00 PM (last entry 8:30 PM) Location: Senribanpakukoen, Suita, Osaka, 565-0826 Website: https://www.expo70-park.jp/ Price: 260 yen (park), 1600 yen (Osaka Wheel cherry blossom event; see website for more info: https://ticket.osaka-wheel.com/#158) Satsukiyama Park If you want a more serene place to appreciate the beauty of the blossoms, then we recommend heading for nearby Ikeda City, where history, nature, and culture intertwine. Specifically, Satsukiyama Park at the foot of Mt. Satsuki offers panoramic views of the Osaka Plain as well as the 35,000 cherry blossoms planted right there in the park! Head to one of the observation decks to catch this stunning view – or perhaps challenge one of the hiking trails if you’re an outdoor enthusiast. Spend a relaxing day with your family at the playground or zoo, where you can interact with rare Australian wombats – the mascot of Ikeda City – and wallabies for no admission cost! At night, watch the lanterns light up the trails of pink blossoms winding all around you for a truly magical atmosphere. Date: Early April Time: Open 24 hours, 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM (zoo) Location: 2-5 Ayaha, Ikeda, Osaka, 563-0051 Website: https://www.ikedashi-kanko.jp/spot/recommend-spot01 Price: Free (both for the park and zoo) Yamanakadani For even more peace and quiet for your cherry blossom excursion, the mountain village of Yamanakadani is a must-visit. A row of cherry blossom trees on either side greet you the moment you step off the train, giving you a glimpse of the 1,000 trees blooming all along the Yamanaka River. Take a breath of fresh air and feel the lingering history of this once bustling hot spring resort town through the surviving architecture. Get a taste of that time period during the “Hanakaido Yamanakadani Sakura Festival,” held during peak bloom, where traditional dance and drum performances will seem to light up the cherry blossoms alongside the evening illuminations. Date: Late March - Early April Time: Open 24 hours Location: Yamanakadani, Hannan, Osaka Website: https://www.city.hannan.lg.jp/kakuka/mirai/mkatsu/spot/sakura.html Price: Free Events Osaka-Kansai Expo 2025 The big wait is finally over because the Osaka-Kansai Expo finally opens its doors this April, 55 years since it became the first venue in Japan – and Asia – to hold a World Expo. Witness the gathering of life-changing innovations from all over the world under one common theme, “Designing Future Society for Our Lives,” and get a taste of Japan’s iconic traditions in between. Each month sees various limited events held across the Expo’s many facilities. Take in the beauty of Japanese flower arranging at the ikebana exhibition, an April-exclusive event, which illustrates the artform’s long history through the creations of the Ikenobo school, a representative ikebana institution. And don't miss the special opening program of the Expo, “Physical Twin Symphony,” which promises an “experimental live entertainment where people and technology co-create.” From traditional dance and music performances to spectacular projection shows utilizing the most cutting-edge technology, there’s a lot to take in, even in just a one-day visit. Dates: April 13th - October 13th Time: 9:00 AM - 10:00 PM Location: Yumeshima, Konohana-ku, Osaka Website: https://www.expo2025.or.jp/en/ Price: Ranges from 3,700 to 7,500 yen for a single-entry, adult ticket. It’s recommended to purchase a ticket in advance for cheaper prices. See the website for more info: https://www.expo2025.or.jp/en/tickets-index/price/ Osaka Kansai International Art Festival With dates that coincide with the Osaka-Kansai Expo, arguably the area’s biggest event of the year, this contemporary art festival will similarly wow you with its sheer scope. Art installations by local talents and international artists – from a total of 158 countries! – will decorate Osaka's symbolic locations, including the Expo site and the Osaka Bay area. Under the theme of “social impact,” the installations will aim to capture social issues in art form. Moreover, collaborations with countries like Germany, South Korea, and the EU will further explore the relationship that different cultures have with art and with one another. This event gives the whole family a chance to explore the city by giving you an excuse to hit up Osaka's most iconic landmarks and neighborhoods. Follow along the trails hidden beneath the beaten path to feel the essence of Kansai culture, as expressed through these immersive artworks. Date: April 13th - October 13th (dates vary depending on the venue) Locations: Osaka-Kansai Expo site; Osaka Culturarium Tempozan; Osaka International Convention Center (Grand Cube Osaka), etc. See the website for info on venues in Semba, Nishinari, and other areas: https://osaka-kansai.art/en/pages/venue. Website: https://osaka-kansai.art/ Price: 3,000 yen advance ticket for adults, or 3,500 on the spot, excluding the Osaka Expo and Art Fair venues. For entry to all venues, it's a 5,000 yen advance ticket for adults or 6,000 at the door. See the website for more info: https://osaka-kansai.art/pages/ticket. Gundam Next Future Final Exhibition in Osaka If you’re a mecha fan, Osaka has even got you covered with this time-limited exhibition. It’s set in the two-week lead-up to the Osaka-Kansai Expo, which will see a life-sized Gundam at the franchise's very own space station-themed pavilion. But even if you can’t make it to the Expo, this final stop of the nationwide exhibition tour promises a grand scale – a fitting celebration for the franchise's 45-year anniversary. In addition to venue-only Gunpla models, get an exclusive first look at the new anime, “Mobile Suit Gundam GQuuuuuuX.” And if you’re still missing that full-scale Gundam action, feast your eyes on the GQuuuuuuX head on display for the anime’s world premiere. Get hands-on by assembling Gunpla models on-site, using the sight of yet another full-sized arm monument made from recycled runners to feed your creativity (and competitiveness). Date: April 1st -14th Time: 10:00 AM - 8:00 PM (7:00 PM on the last day; last entry is 30 minutes before closing) Location: Grand Front Osaka, 4-20 Ofukacho, Kita-ku, Osaka, 530-0011 Website: https://bandai-hobby.net/site/gnf/2025/osaka/ Price: Free Shoryoe Memorial Ceremony Arguably the most important ceremony held by the historic Shitennoji temple, this event honors Prince Shotoku, the one responsible for the spread of Buddhism in Japan, as well as the building of Shitennoji over 1,400 years ago. It’s a rare chance to see the ancient art form of “bugaku,” which has been performed in the Japanese imperial courts for over 1,200 years. The highlight of the Shoryoe Memorial Ceremony will surely mesmerize you with its striking aesthetics, from the dancers’ butterfly costumes and elaborate masks to the stage decorations shaped like red spider lilies. Don’t miss out on the flea market, which has been held on the 21st and 22nd of every month for the past 200 years, for some Osaka delicacies and an antique souvenir to commemorate this special occasion. Date: April 22nd Time: 12:30 PM Location: 11-18 Shitennoji 1-chome, Tennoji-ku, Osaka City, Osaka, 543-0051 Website: https://www.shitennoji.or.jp/ Price: Free National Treasures of Japan Exhibition History lovers will not want to pass up on this exhibition, which sees nearly 130 of Japan’s designated Natural Treasures gathered in one very fitting location. Coinciding with two special occasions, the Osaka-Kansai Expo and the grand reopening of the Osaka City Museum of Fine Arts after two years of renovations, it’s a chance to look back on traditional Japanese culture whilst also heading towards the future. From ancient relics marking the start of Japan’s shared history to the treasures that capture the heart and soul of Osaka culture specifically, you’ll find that there are countless fragments shaping the unique city we see now. With the exhibition being held in six phases, you’ll be sure to see different parts of the puzzle depending on when you go. Who knows, maybe you’ll even decide to visit again to satisfy that curious mind by the end of your trip! Date: April 26th - June 15th (closed on Mondays, except special openings on April 28th & May 5th) Time: 9:30 AM - 5:00 P.M. (Tuesday - Friday, Sundays), 9:30 AM - 7:00 PM (Saturdays, May 4 & 5) Location: Osaka City Museum of Fine Arts, Tennoji Park, 1-82 Chausuyamacho, Tennoji-ku, Osaka, 543-0063 Website: https://tsumugu.yomiuri.co.jp/kokuhou2025/ Price: 2,400 yen for adults; 1,700 for university & high school students; 500 for elementary & junior high school students No matter which specific dates you decide to visit Osaka, rest assured that you’ll be able to catch at least one unforgettable event to color your memories. From the delicate pink of the cherry blossoms to the vibrant lights and banners at the Osaka-Kansai Expo, you’ll find that this normally lively destination will be bursting with even more vivid shades in April 2025. With the pleasant spring weather bringing out the full kaleidoscope of its charms, why not hit up some of the events held in this culturally rich city, which’ll let you go beyond just the friendly people and delicious food – though no one’s going to complain about that! Featured Photo Credit: Expo ‘70 Commemorative Park website Want to have more fun on your trip to Osaka? Join our Hanami Tour and discover the city as a local!

Arigato Travel

27.03.2025

Things to do in Kyoto in April 2025 | Arigato Travel

April is a transition from spring to early summer for Japan. Mild and pleasant weather makes cherry blossoms bloom and crowds gather and enjoy picnics under the trees. Whilst there are warm days in most regions, occasional rain and cool evenings remind us of the end of the early spring. Despite the unpredictable weather of spring, Kyoto offers a lot of opportunities for trips to do outdoor activities and visit seasonal festivals. The best thing about April is Hanami (花見), which means watching cherry blossoms in full bloom. Also, you can enjoy historical and heritage tours. In this blog, we will introduce several locations and events so that you can get the most out of your Kyoto trip. Miyako Odori (Spring Dances by Geiko & Maiko) If you visit Kyoto, you should see Miyako Odori, which is one of the most beautiful spring events. This annual dance performance is presented by Geiko and Maiko of the Gion Kobu district (kagai). In 2025, Miyako Odori will be held at the Gion Kobu Kaburenjo Theatre. The first performance was held 150 years ago during the First Kyoto Exposition. Since then, Miyako Odori has been treasured as a seasonal spring tradition in Kyoto. Miyako Odori runs for about an hour to showcase the changing seasons from spring to the following spring. Date: April 1st ~ 30th (there will be no performance on April 15th) Time: 1st - 12:30 ~ 2nd - 14:30 ~ 3rd - 16:30 ~ Address: Gion Kōbu Kaburenjō, 570-2 Gionmachi Minamigawa, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto, 605-0074 Website: https://miyako-odori.jp/english Admission fee: 4000 ~ 7000 yen (depends on seat and plan) Heianjingu Sakura Otoyo Held at Heianjingu, the Sakura Otoyo concert is a great night-time event that should be added to your plans. People listen to Japanese artists’s music while enjoying the Benishidare weeping cherries. The interesting thing about this is that there is no seat. Artists will play from the Shobikan ceremonial hall, and the audience listen to their music near the Seiho-ike pond in the east garden. You can listen to the music of Japanese instruments, such as shamisen and koto, which make nostalgic sounds. Date: April 2nd ~ 6th Time: 18:15 ~ 21:00 Address: Heian Jingu Shrine, 97 Okazaki Nishitennocho, Sakyo Ward, Kyoto, 606-8341 Price: 3000 ~ 15000 yen (depends on plan) Website: https://www.heianjingu.or.jp/ Enjoy viewing Cherry Blossoms (Hanami) In April, Cherry Blossom viewing (hanami) in Kyoto will be a precious experience. The famous parks and temples become beautiful with pink petals and draw visitors for picnics. There are several Sakura spots in Kyoto. Maruyama Park which is next to Yasaka Shrine is known for illuminated weeping cherry trees at night. In the Higashiyama district, Philosopher’s Path follows the canal which is lined by hundreds of cherry trees. The length of this path is about two kilometres long! I recommend seeing Kiyomizu-dera Temple also. A spectacular view of cherry blossoms is overwhelming. Time: early to mid ~ April Address: Kiyomizu-dera Temple, 1 Chome-294 Kiyomizu, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto, 605-0862 Website (Kiyomizu-dera Temple): https://www.kiyomizudera.or.jp/en Admission fee: Most parks - free Kiyomizu-dera Temple - 500 yen for adults Oka-sai Oka-sai, a Sakura festival, has been held at Hirano Shrine every year since 985 for over a thousand years. This is the oldest festival in Kyoto. After a ceremony in front of the shrine at 10:00, the ritual is held at the Mausoleum of Emperor Kazan, who reigned when the festival was established. At 13:00, the procession, which is made up of a portable shrine, women in historical kimonos, priests, and warriors on horseback, starts at the Hirano Shrine. Date: April 10th Time: 10:00 ~ 15:00 Address: Hirano Shrine, Japan, 〒603-8322 Kyoto, Kita Ward, Hirano Miyamotocho, 1 Admission fee: free Website: https://www.hiranojinja.com/home/english-page Kamo Kyokusui no En In Kamigamo Shrine, the Kamo Kyokusui no En is held following the style of poetry parties during the Heian period. In this event, authors have to compose improvised poems based on the tanka format, which consists of five lines of 5, 7, 5, 7, and 7 syllables. Through this event, people can feel the elegance of the Heian style of noble living by listening to Japanese classical music. Date: April 13th Time: 13:00 ~ Address: Kamigamo Shrine, 339 Kamigamo Motoyama, Kita Ward, Kyoto, 603-8047 Admission fee: free Website (only in Japanese): https://pr.kyoto-np.jp/event/benishidare Yasurai Festival One of Kyoto’s three unique festivals, the Yasurai Festival at Imamiya Shrine, is held to pray for good health and prevention of illness. There is a lively procession led by performers who dress as oni (demons). The sounds of traditional instruments make this event mysterious. In the Yasurai Festival, red umbrellas play a pivotal role. They are said to attract the god’s eyes and bring good health to those who pass under these umbrellas. If you write your name on the effigies, you can get purified by a priestess and ask for god’s blessings. Date: April 14th Time: 12:00 ~ The procession starts from Kōnen-ji (small temple near Imamiya Shrine) 15:00 ~ Arrival and performance at Imamiya Shrine Address: Imamiya Shrine, 21 Murasakino Imamiyacho, Kita Ward, Kyoto, 603-8243 Admission fee: free Website: http://www.imamiyajinja.org/eng/imamiya_ENG/Yasurai_festival.html Toji Temple flea market Held at the Toji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Toji Temple flea market is a great event to add to your trip plans to find antiques, bargain crafts, kimonos, and souvenirs. Even if you do not buy anything, it is enjoyable to just explore a variety of goods. Go to a lot of stalls and see what you can find. Not only are there material products, but you can also enjoy snacks at the food stalls! This flea market is one of Kyoto’s three major markets. Date: April 21st Time: 8:00 ~ 17:00 Address: To-ji Temple, 1 Kujocho, Minami Ward, Kyoto, 601-8473, Japan Admission fee: free Website: https://toji.or.jp/ In April, Kyoto has breathtaking nature, a beautiful display of traditional culture, and lively seasonal festivals that attract you and keep you captivated. Whether you go for geisha performances, hanami under cherry blossoms, or enjoy historical festivals, Kyoto has a little bit of everything for everyone during this time. Featured Photo Credit: Balazs Simon If you'll be stopping by Kyoto to enjoy some of these great events and scenic spots, be sure to book a food tour for a truly local experience!

Arigato Travel

27.03.2025

Interview with Inase Otsu Machiya Bed & Breakfast | Arigato Travel

One of the main draws of visiting Japan has always been experiencing its rich history. Given the fact that the one-of-a-kind tradition unique to this incredible country is especially visible in the Kansai region, cities like Kyoto, Osaka, and Nara are often the top destinations for anyone looking to peer into traditional Japan whilst still having access to the modern metropolis. Many visitors opt for a more hands-on, historically accurate experience and go for a walking tour down the Tokaido Road, a once-important trade route connecting Kyoto and Tokyo during the Edo Period. But just like the merchants and pilgrims of the day – and even if you decide to go by the Tokaido Shinkansen – you’re bound to stay overnight at its many designated stops before you can accomplish such a feat. So, why not reward yourself a little bit earlier by staying at Inase Otsu Machiya Bed & Breakfast, a traditional-style inn located at the very last stop of this historic route only half an hour away from Kyoto by train? We recently met with the team behind this incredible spot, and we couldn’t wait to share what they had to say with all of you. Read on to learn more about your potential detour spot and its most notable accommodation! Firstly, can you briefly introduce yourself and your role at Inase Otsu Machiya? My name is Yoichi, the director. My job means that I am in charge of planning and managing the Otsu Machiya Inn Inase. Can you please tell our readers about Inase Otsu Machiya? Inase is a guesthouse that was renovated from a rice shop built in the early Showa period and has been designated as a registered tangible cultural property. It is within a 10-minute walk of Mitsui-dera Temple, Otsu Port, and Keihan Biwako Hama Otsu Station, (making it easy to get to and from Kyoto) and a quiet place to stay. I understand that Inase was renovated in 1933 from a townhouse that was once used as a local rice shop. Could you tell us which parts of the original building were preserved and which parts were changed or updated to become the current Otsu Machiya no Yado Inase? The renovations began when a proposal was made to tear down the building and turn it into a parking lot. However, our owner decided to buy it to save it and turned it into an inn. The main building has been left untouched, and the mud walls and floor plan have been preserved. To make it into an inn, toilets and washbasins have been installed in each guest room to make it easier for guests to spend time there, and on the first floor, a community space has been set up to meet the diverse needs of travelers and allow guests to interact with each other. The room called “Bansho” in the annex has been renovated while preserving the beams. We also built a storehouse to replace the one that previously existed on the premises. Inase has seven rooms, each with its own distinct name. Can you briefly point out the unique characteristics of each room? The rooms are named after the eight most beautiful spots in Omi. As mentioned previously, the main building has been renovated to retain the original atmosphere of each room and now has washbasins and toilets. There is also a shared bathroom, shower room and laundry on the first floor, as well as a common space facing the garden. We opened one detached room that ensures privacy and two rooms in the new “Kura” building, which is equipped with a mini-kitchen for long-term stays, in August of 2023. In each room, we have explanations of the eight scenic spots of Omi using the names of the rooms, and the lighting and furniture are also from the early Showa period, so we hope you will enjoy the retro atmosphere while learning about the history. Inase is surrounded by an abundance of picturesque spots, but Inase itself shines with its beautiful historic architecture. What’s the most scenic spot at the inn where guests might relax and unwind? By far, this has to be the courtyard and garden that can be seen from the community space. You can relax on the veranda and take in the beautiful view. The main building of Inase has been designated as a registered tangible cultural property of Japan. To ensure this, we have used the same materials as when the building was first constructed, and have preserved it as much as possible in its original state. You can feel the atmosphere of a traditional Otsu townhouse no matter where you look. In addition, from the community space overlooking the courtyard, you can enjoy the changing scenery of the four seasons while staying indoors. We invite you to find your own favorite spot in the calm space of the Otsu townhouse. Inase serves a delicious and plentiful Japanese breakfast. What’s usually on the menu? We serve a homemade Japanese breakfast every morning, including miso soup made with our own vegetables and miso, and other dishes. Please enjoy your morning in a homely atmosphere to start your day. We heard that you offer cultural experiences in addition to your services as an accommodation. What kind of services do you offer? We have a wonderful traditional tea ceremony service with Inase's tea master. Now, we hold tea ceremonies with a tea master. (Advanced reservations required) We also hold casual tea parties for the purpose of international exchange. Otsu is overflowing with must-visit historical sites – including Inase itself which was designated a Tangible Cultural Property in 2017. Which places do you always recommend? And are there any hidden gems that most people would miss but you as a local think are worth visiting? Here are some places we suggest that are also popular among the locals: Nyoigoe, which connects Daimonji Mountain and Miidera Temple, is perfect for trekking. Rokasennsuisou (Kionji) was built as a villa for the Japanese-style painter Yamamoto Shunkyo and is designated as a nationally important cultural property. Advanced reservations are required for visits. The Karahashi Bridge in Seta is one of the eight famous views of Omi and is the location that appears in the poem “Seta no Yūshō”. It is a historic bridge in Japan, and the name of the room in the Inase is taken from the Seta no Yūshō. The date of the renovation is written on the bridge's giboshi, making it one of the places where you can truly feel the history of the area. Not only places, but Otsu boasts many distinct festivals, food specialties, and folk arts & crafts. What experience and/or souvenirs can guests only get by visiting Otsu? There are many things to see and do while in the area, but here are two suggestions we think you definitely can’t miss. Chajo Fujimura, located near Ishiyama-dera, is a Japanese sweets shop where you can eat freshly made Japanese sweets, and there is also take-out. For those looking for more physical activity, Otsu Machiya no Yado Inase is a place that you can get to by cycling along the shore of Lake Biwa, so you can feel the nature of the season. Lastly, what kind of experience or impression do you want your guests to be left with after staying at Inase, and Otsu in general? Otsu City is close to Kyoto and is a base for visiting tourist attractions, but unlike Kyoto, it is a place where you can relax and spend your time in a leisurely manner. It is also very close to Lake Biwa, making it easy to go for a stroll. We would like you to stay at the Otsu Machiya Inn Inase, a traditional Japanese-style house, and experience everyday life like never before. Thank you again for sharing all about your beautiful inn and the surrounding city of Otsu! I’m sure our readers wouldn’t miss the chance to stay at an actual machiya, in a region known especially for its rich history and lingering traditional atmosphere. With only seven rooms available at any one time, make sure to book one of Inase’s special rooms in advance for your equally special trip to Otsu, nearby Kyoto, or perhaps your journey back in time down the ever-scenic Tokaido Road. Check out Inase Otsu Machiya at the following: Website: https://www.inaseotsu.com/en/ Instagram: http://instagram.com/inase_otsu Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/%E7%B2%8B%E4%B8%96-inase-Otsu-Machiya-Bed-Breakfast-155534281592404/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCan9JMjh5f2-I1DiMg8Sscg TripAdvisor: https://www.tripadvisor.com/Hotel_Review-g298202-d12389627-Reviews-Inase_Otsu_Machiya_Bed_and_Breakfast-Otsu_Shiga_Prefecture_Kinki.html Featured Photo Credit: Inase Otsu Machiya. To try great matcha and green tea, join us on any of our fantastic Green Tea Experiences in Japan!

Arigato Travel

25.03.2025

How to Enjoy Hanami Like a Local: A Guide to Japan’s Cherry Blossom Season | Arigato Travel

In Japan, the country’s beloved cherry blossoms are in full bloom between the end of March and the beginning of May. During this period, crowds gather together to hold a party like none other under the sakura trees. This tradition, known as “hanami” (flower viewing in English), started about 1200 years ago and is still loved by Japanese people today. While many tourists enjoy the season in their own way, only a few know how to celebrate it like the locals. Today we will show you how to enjoy an authentic hanami experience! Before Going to Hanami When you are planning your own Sakura celebrations, there are several things you need to keep in mind to do beforehand. But don’t fret; we’ve got you covered. So, let’s go through all these things together. Find the Perfect Location The first step is to decide where to go. We recommend you check the cherry blossom forecast and see if cherry blossoms are in bloom at your destination. If not, you may have to travel, so it’s best to know all the dates, as the blooming period tends to end quite quickly. Our team at Arigato Travel posts a continuously updated forecast each year. Here is the 2025 version! Prepare or Buy Some Delicious Japanese Foods Locals tend to bring traditional bento boxes with beverages and eat them under the cherry blossom trees. The boxes are full of delicious foods, traditional and modern, that are perfect for a party! Here is a list of things you should bring to enjoy cherry blossom viewing. Bento Boxes: These typical Japanese lunch boxes usually include sushi, Japanese omelette, rice balls, and Japanese fried chicken. Each separate item is perfectly proportioned so that you can enjoy every morsel without wasting any of it. Sakura Desserts: In spring, you should definitely try sakura mochi, sakura-flavoured snacks, and hanami dango (rice dumplings). These delicious sweets perfectly encapsulate the cherry blossom season and are a great way to celebrate Hanami. Beverages: Many local people like to drink sake, beer, and sakura-flavoured beverages at their annual party. But of course, if any of these aren’t for you, you are free to bring whatever you like! Utensils and Other Essentials: Make sure to bring cutlery, napkins, wet wipes, a picnic blanket, and trash bags. After all, we need to be tidy and respectful. Understand Hanami Etiquette Did you know that there is etiquette to follow during hanami? It is important to check these rules each year before cherry blossom viewing to make sure you don’t forget them. By following these simple steps, you can enjoy this tradition respectfully and blend in with the Japanese culture. Respect the Cherry Trees: It is forbidden to shake or break branches of trees. The sakura are fragile, and any form of damage could lead to disease or death. Clean Up After Yourself: Many of the parks have trash cans, but you should always bring trash bags to put any waste or mess in following your party. An important and respectful part of this season is to make sure to keep the area clean, we are respecting nature after all. Be Careful of Noise Levels: Drinking alcohol is not prohibited in most of the locations (except big parks such as Shinjuku Gyoen, etc), but please mind your neighbors. You are not likely to be the only ones celebrating in the park, so you should always respect those around you to ensure that everyone has the best time possible. Also, karaoke is banned in many parks. Reserve Spots: Because hanami is incredibly popular, local parks are likely to be very crowded, so it is best to find yourself a good spot early. Many locals use picnic blankets to reserve the spots in the early morning. Dressing for Hanami Some people wear traditional outfits like the kimono. This is the warmer version of Yukata, which is appropriate for summer festivals. Being clothed in a kimono, you can feel the traditional atmosphere of hanami, making it the perfect event for anyone who has been looking for that chance to dress up in traditional clothing. You can find kimonos in a rental shop. Also, some of these shops teach you how to wear it. If not, there are plenty of online guides to help make sure that you put on your garb correctly. There are some interesting rules about kimono, making it a great cultural experience and a must-do for those who want to experience Japan to its fullest. How to Enjoy Hanami At hanami viewing spots, it can be easy to get overwhelmed by the blooming sakura and the exciting vibe. Many of the more popular parks will typically have rules and guidelines posted on their websites or in the park itself to ensure that everyone has a good time. If not, there are simple steps you should always keep in mind when you are attending a hanami party. Follow the rules, and make sure you have fun! Relax and Enjoy the Atmosphere One of the primary meanings behind hanami is

Arigato Travel

24.03.2025

Nippori: The Tokyo You’ve Never Seen | Arigato Travel

If you want to step away from the modern, glitzy side of Tokyo and wish to explore an area that seems out of place with the rest of the city, spend some time in Nippori, a delightful blend of old-world charm and contemporary vibe. Located in the shitamachi area (literally: ‘the lower side of the city’) of Tokyo, this down-to-earth, retro-chic district is home to many things. This includes a popular textile market, serene temples, cozy cafes, twisting alleys, and even one of the most unique Sakura viewing spots in all of Tokyo. Let’s take a quick stroll through the winding streets of Nippori and learn how to spend a few hours in this quaint little Tokyo neighborhood. What to do? Geek-Out At Shimogoindenhashi Shimogoindenhashi Bridge which is located right outside Nippori Station, is a perfect starting point for a walk through the neighbourhood. If you are a densha otaku or a train enthusiast, this is the ideal spot to get some pictures of the 13 railway tracks that pass under this elevated viewing spot. Train spotting can always be a fun activity, and when you stand on this bridge, you will see many trains and even the occasional bullet train thunder past, right underneath your feet. Truly a train-lovers paradise! Location: 3 Chome-1 Nishinippori, Arakawa City, Tokyo 116-0013, Japan Meet The Buddha At Tenno-ji A few minutes walk from Nippori Station is Tenno-ji, the oldest Buddhist temple in the Yanaka district. The temple was founded in the year 1274 and is now one of the last few temples for the Tendai sect of Buddhism. In one corner of the temple premises, there is a large seated copper Buddha statue that was constructed in 1690. The temple is also the home to Bishamonten, one of the famous Seven Gods of Fortune of Yanaka. Although a lot of the temple was destroyed over the years, what remains is quite a beautiful site, with landscaped gardens and iconic pagoda structures dotting the landscape. Location: 7 Chome-14-8 Yanaka, Taito City, Tokyo 110-0001, Japan Take a Walk in a Cemetery Cemeteries are generally considered spooky and are generally not on most people’s ‘must see’ list. But Yanaka Cemetery, which is a short distance ahead of Tenno-ji, is a peaceful and tranquil leafy enclave that is home to 7000 graves, including the tomb of the last Tokugawa Shogun, Yoshinobu. Once a part of the Tenno-ji temple, the cemetery is well-known for the Sakura-Dori, a central street that runs through it. If you take a walk through the cemetery in spring, especially on the path lined by the freshly bloomed sakura, you can’t help but feel that you are in one of the most unique spots in Japan. An oasis of calm where the past, the present, and future co-exist in perfect harmony. Location: 7 Chome-5-24 Yanaka, Taito City, Tokyo 110-0001, Japan Walk Through the Torii Gates at Nezu Jinja If you are looking for a perfect Torii Gate photo opportunity in Tokyo, head to the historic Nezu Jinja Shrine. The 2000-year-old shrine was first built in nearby Sendagi but was rebuilt on the current site about 300 years ago. Nezu Jinja is one of the most photogenic shrines in Tokyo, thanks to its lush greenery, azalea blooms, koi ponds, and beautifully constructed wooden structures. Its beauty is most evident in the spring when the azaleas are in full bloom. Located beside the main shrine is a small path of vermillion-coloured torii gates, leading up to the Otome Inari Shrine, a second shrine found within the premises. This hidden shrine is not as famous as some of the other shrines in Tokyo, which makes it a perfect spot to soak in the beauty of nature, culture, and tradition in relative peace. Location: 1 Chome-28-9 Nezu, Bunkyo City, Tokyo 113-0031, Japan Go Souvenir Shopping at Yanaka Ginza The popular shopping street of Yanaka Ginza managed to escape heavy bombings during WWII, making it one of the few places in Tokyo where you can still see the city’s pre-war pathways and shops intact. It is a treasure trove of unique shops that offer everything, including traditional Japanese sweets, daily-use goods made from natural materials, and cute cat souvenirs. It is also known as Cat Town because, at one time, it was completely filled with cats. Today, there are cat figurines scattered all over the street, making it the perfect spot for cat lovers, too. Also, if you are around Yanaka Ginza at sunset, remember to head towards ‘Yuyake Dandan,’ a flight of stairs on one end of the street. It's one of the perfect spots in Tokyo to watch the sun go down. Location: 3 Chome-13-1 Yanaka, Taito City, Tokyo 110-0001, Japan Nippori Fabric Town Once you’ve had enough of the past, step back into the contemporary at Nippori’s Fabric Town. Originally a wholesale district, over the years, it has become a popular destination for retail shopping as well. It’s a rather long street filled with almost 100 shops, where you can find everything related to textiles, fashion and handicrafts! If you are a DIY fashion enthusiast, you can spend hours here, exploring the different shops in search of the perfect material for your next project. Nippori Fabric Town is particularly popular with cosplay enthusiasts. Whether you are looking for fabric, leather, buttons, zippers, or even sewing accessories, you will find it all here. Location: 116-0014 Tokyo, Arakawa City, Higashinippori, 5 Chome−34−8 What to Eat? After so much walking, you’re likely to be hungry. But don’t worry, we have you covered. Yanaka Ginza is the perfect place to stuff yourself with some amazing food. Here are some of my recommendations: Nikunosuzuki If korokke is your thing, look for the Genki Menchi Katsu or delicious beef croquettes at Nikunosuzuki, a store that has been serving ‘full of energy’ beef and pork snacks since 1933. Location: 3-9-15 Yanaka, Taito-ku, Tokyo Yanaka Shippoya Cats rule at Yanaka Ginza, and it's no surprise that they feature in the local food, too. Yanaka Shippoya (or Yanaka’s Tail) is a specialty store that serves grilled donuts in the shape of a cat’s tail. You can’t get cuter than that! Location: 3-11-12 Yanaka, Taito-ku, Tokyo Waguriya Japanese Chestnuts If you have a sweet tooth and want to try something uniquely Japanese, try the snacks and desserts made from chestnuts at Waguriya. They serve plain old roasted chestnuts as well as chestnut-flavored parfaits and desserts made from locally sourced nuts farmed in their fields. Location: 3-9-14 Yanaka, Taito-ku, Tokyo Soba Azegami Want something more filling than some snacks? The hand-made, authentic Nihachi Soba noodles are made by a chef who trained for 20 years in a popular soba restaurant in Kanda before setting up his restaurant in Yanaka. The seasonal ‘Tenseiro’ set meal of soba and fried tempura or the Wariko Soba, which offers a taste of 5 different flavors, is just right after a long walk on a hot summer day. Location: 3-11-11 Yanaka, Taito-ku, Tokyo Tokyo is all about contrasts, and a walk through the Nippori neighborhood will tell you exactly why. It takes you away from the fast-paced world of Shibuya and Shinjuku and transports you to an era long gone. And then, right as you think you are away from it all, it brings you back to the present. Once you spend a couple of hours walking through the winding streets of Nippori, believe me, you will want to keep coming back for more. If you want to taste the awesome food at Yanaka and learn a little more about the Shitamachi district, join us for an old town food walk. Featured image by Amit Manjaramkar Want to discover more neighborhoods in Tokyo? We have food tours all around the city!

Arigato Travel

23.03.2025

Everything You Need to Know About the Japan Explorer Pass | Arigato Travel

Japan has several passes to make domestic travel easier when traversing the country, the most familiar being the regional rail passes connecting many to the various cities in Japan. However, if you fly with JAL (Japan Airlines) you may get the chance to have all of your domestic travel in Japan made free. If you’re considering a trip to the country, take a quick look at this blog to see if you can take advantage of this once-in-a-lifetime deal. What is the Japan Explorer Pass? At its simplest, the Japan Explorer Pass is something you receive after you book a round-trip international flight with JAL Airlines. As of now, it is only available to those both with residence and who are flying from the following countries: The U.S. Canada Australia New Zealand Vietnam Indonesia Philippines Thailand Mexico China Taiwan India By reserving your flight with JAL, you will have access to special fare prices for the Japan Explorer Pass. How Much is the Pass? Price is always important when considering these passes, as some across the last couple of years have seen major spikes in costs. However, the passes JAL offers are a small price to pay when considering you will have unlimited access to multiple areas, whether popular or unpopular, across Japan. Here is a breakdown of the three available passes: 7,700 Yen This pass will give you access to 8 short routes consisting of Tokyo to Nagoya, Osaka to Matsuyama, along with domestic travel access to Okinawa’s main island Ishigaki. 11,000 Yen This option will make you eligible to travel along 61 routes such as Tokyo-Akita, Osaka-Aomori, Nagoya-Okinawa main island, and routes within Hokkaido. 14,300 Yen At this price, you will be able to travel across 49 longer routes such as Tokyo-Kyushu, Nagoya-Sapporo, and Osaka-Amami Island. By purchasing any of these passes, depending on the one you choose, you will have all of the included routes free to travel by flight. Isn’t that a great deal? How do I Get the Pass? Your first step will be to go to the JAL website and book your roundtrip flight using their airline. Once you have a ticket for this, you will have access to the fares and you can choose the right one depending on how big of a range of domestic travel you plan to do during your trip. The first tier has pretty simple, short routes, the second has middle-length, and the third consists of the largest travel routes that you can take easily by a free plane with this fare. If you’re confused about the website’s procedures you can follow these two simple steps: (Once you have a ticket ready) Click on Japan Domestic Flights Find Flights by clicking the “Find Flights and Book” option. Important Things to Note While this pass may have many already planning their next round-trip flight, it is crucial to be aware of the conditions of the Japan Explorer Pass to make sure you apply. First, as already mentioned is the country of origin and residence. As you will have to submit your passport for confirmation of these two things, you must make sure that you are currently residing in any of the above-listed countries, and that your flight departs from said country. Also, you must make sure that both your round-trip flight and any of the free domestic flights you hope to take are in the same reservation. Start Exploring with the Japan Explorer Pass! This pass offered by JAL has finally returned to travelers who wish to explore more of what Japan has to offer. With affordable prices for access to beautiful areas of the country, it’s no surprise that it is such a popular option for tourists to reach more off-the-beaten-path destinations like Aomori or Akita, but also very popular destinations like Kyoto and Okinawa. Even better, for those dealing with a lot of luggage on their trip, this pass has been well-praised because all of your travel is done by plane, keeping your hands free for most of your trip! If you’re thinking about expanding what you already know about Japan or want to make your first time to Japan to have a bit of everything, this pass is definitely something to check out! Featured Photo Credit: JAL Booked your flights and ready to start your Japan adventure? Plan your trip with one of our experts to make the most of your visit!

Arigato Travel

20.03.2025

Shiba Park Hotel – A Haven for Book Lovers and Cultural Enthusiasts | Arigato Travel

Tokyo is a city of endless discoveries. If you are a first-time traveller to the city, you might wonder what to do, where to go, and especially where to stay! That’s why today, I will tell you about my recent stay at Shiba Park Hotel, a hotel with a perfect blend of traditional hospitality and contemporary comfort. This amazing hotel is truly one of a kind, and I myself can’t recommend enough that you stay here if you are planning a trip to Tokyo! Established in 1948, this long-standing hotel has evolved while maintaining its charm, and its latest transformation from 2020 to 2023 has made it a truly unique space—a library hotel dedicated to culture, history, and art. But before we get into that, let me tell you about one of the most important parts of any hotel stay, my room! My Stay in a Standard King Room For my recent stay, I had the opportunity to try a Standard King Room, which provided the perfect balance of space and comfort. The room featured a king-sized bed (it was so big that I almost got lost in it!) with really soft linens, ensuring you a restful night’s sleep after a day of exploring Tokyo. It was truly bliss. But, unlike many hotels, the bed wasn’t the only feature of the room. There were also plenty of thoughtful touches like ambient lighting, a nice art piece on the wall, a couch with cushions, a big TV and of course a fridge and security box. Each and every piece made the room feel just that much more secure and cozy, like a true home away from home. Just like its sister hotel Park Hotel Tokyo, the bathroom was equipped with eco-friendly amenities that reflect a dedication to a greener future. All the products were the incredible Millennium Organics Blue Label with over 90% plant- and mineral-derived ingredients and no artificial fragrances. Additionally, items like razors and hairbrushes contain natural materials, reinforcing their eco-conscious approach. Free coffee and tea are also available in the room, and instead of the usual plastic water bottles provided, guests can use a jug provided in their room and refill it at the filtered water dispensers available on each floor. This convenient setup allows access to fresh water anytime while also promoting an eco-friendly practice! It’s the little things like these that allow you to rest easy knowing that you’re helping the environment. A Library Hotel Experience As I mentioned earlier, what makes Shiba Park Hotel truly special is its deep connection to knowledge and culture. The hotel features thoughtfully curated library corners, designed in collaboration with Ginza Tsutaya Bookstore. These nooks together offer a collection of 1,500 books covering not only Japanese but also foreign culture, architecture, photography, music, travel, art, and more. The hotel offers cozy seating areas with sofas on most floors, providing comfortable spots to relax and read. It’s the perfect environment to get yourself lost in another world. Each floor features a unique theme, adding to the charm of the experience. I visited the Photography, Art and Travel section and the selection was amazing! I honestly wish I had more time to relax and just chill in these small areas. This is definitely a relaxing place where you can get some rest and fun after a long day of strolling the streets of Tokyo. The 2nd floor is also a dedicated space with more books, some art pieces, and a comfy sofa you can sit on to relax. (Yes, you can sit below the tree that you can see in the photo!) And, of course, last but not least, the lobby is also very cosy and invites guests to indulge in quiet reading moments, adding a layer of depth to their stay. They make sure to ensure you get the full curated experience from the minute you walk through the front doors. If you are a book lover and looking to learn more about Japan, you will probably find yourself lost in the pages of fascinating stories and insights into the country’s heritage, food, music, and more. It’s truly a glorious place for lovers of Japanese culture, history, and traditions. Engaging Cultural Experiences Beyond its cozy library corners, the hotel offers enriching cultural experiences such as a Table-Style Tea Ceremony in the lobby every Thursday at 10 AM. Instead of sitting in a tatami room, this version is a modern take on Japan’s iconic ritual, making it more accessible and engaging for guests. You can just casually stop by and enjoy! After watching the masters making the Matcha tea and preparing the little track for you including a little sweet and your bowl, you can move to the lobby and savour a quiet moment before heading out to explore the city. Trust me, the perfectly brewed tea combined with an amazing book is an experience like none other and is the best way to get ready for a full day of exploring. In addition to this, they also offer a Kintsugi experience (but you need to book well in advance, so make sure to do it on time), the traditional Japanese art of repairing broken pottery with gold. This practice beautifully symbolizes resilience and sustainability. I, unfortunately, was unable to attend the Kintsugi experience while I was there, but I truly hope I will be able to try it in the future. Dining at The Dining Obviously, as a foodie, I was excited to discover the food at Shiba Park Hotel. For food enthusiasts like me, The Dining offers a diverse menu including Japanese, Western, and Chinese cuisine. I enjoyed a delightful dinner there and of course, I chose the “Japanese full course menu” (I had to make the “ultimate sacrifice” and eat that one just to take photos and show you all you know…!). But if you want to take a break from Japanese food during your trip, this restaurant is your chance to try something else. The course I chose featured fresh sashimi, succulent wagyu sukiyaki, crispy tempura, sushi, dessert, and more—a delicious journey through Japanese flavours! Truly the perfect meal to end the day. If you're considering this set, come hungry—it’s a generous feast! They also have “A la carte” options. And great news for all vegans, they just launched a vegan dinner menu. No matter what your diet is, there’s bound to be something here for you, and I guarantee it will be delicious. The breakfast is also held in the same restaurant with a mix of Japanese and Western dishes. Because I was still full from the full-course dinner, unfortunately, I just had some fruit and coffee, but also bread and cheese (I am French, I can’t help it). Even if it was a little simpler, everything was delicious. Of course, they had eggs, sausages, salads, cereals, but also Japanese miso soup rice and a lot of other things to try. A Top-Level Service The staff, both at the counter and in the restaurant, spoke excellent English, making the experience much more comfortable for travellers. It’s always reassuring when you don’t have to worry about being understood! They also provided a clear and detailed explanation of the dinner course, including each ingredient and how to enjoy every dish. In addition to that, the hotel provides complimentary coffee and tea in the lobby, but also paid options like wine, Japanese sake and beer for those who wish to unwind further. Every single part of your stay has been thoughtfully crafted to not only ensure that you are relaxed but also fully enjoy your stay. I really recommend Shiba Park Hotel if you are planning to visit Tokyo. The hotel is more than just a place to stay—it’s an immersive cultural experience and a book paradise. Whether you're a reader or a traveler seeking comfort with a sustainable touch, this hotel offers something truly special. Shiba Park Hotel has created the perfect spot, a home away from home for any traveller. I left feeling enriched and inspired, already looking forward to my next visit. Address: 1 Chome-5-10 Shibakoen, Minato City, Tokyo 105-0011 Google Maps Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/qRnuWUGFBM42Yxf56 Feature Photo: Jessica Iragne Need help finding the perfect accommodation for your trip to Japan? Reach out to our team of expert travel planners and be sure to mention Shiba Park Hotel!

Arigato Travel

14.03.2025

Best Kissatens to Visit in Tokyo | Arigato Travel

When you’re craving a cup of joe, which do you choose, a kissaten or a café? That typically depends on what you’re looking for: a place to slowly sip your coffee, have a small meal, and potentially a smoke, or the hustle and bustle of customers coming and going and the clacking of computer keys. Although it needs mentioning that it is no longer permitted to smoke in many food establishments. Even so, the choice is still there, so which is best for you? Let’s find out! How is a Kissaten Different From a Café? Lovingly known as a kissa, the kissaten offers more than a high-quality brew. You can often order tea, juice, or a small meal. It has a retro feeling with its dark wood, vintage posters, antiques, and specially selected tableware. And don’t forget the iconic pink phone! These stores are typically found in a back alley or down steep stairs in a basement, and the layout tends to consist of a large bar counter and a few small tables. The main diners are typically a bit older in the age demographic, but you shouldn’t let that stop you. A kissaten is a place to relax and truly enjoy the flavors of specialty beans and brewing methods. On the other hand, cafés generally target a younger audience. They follow the trends of the coffee world and offer Instagrammable drinks alongside ordinary coffee. You’ll spot people with their laptops open, just as, if not more, focused on their work than the piping mug of coffee next to them. And as far as food goes, a café may offer pastries but not a true meal. The real focus is often to get as many customers in and out as quickly as possible, whilst also offering a good place for people to gather and take advantage of the free wifi. Where To Go In the City Now that we know more about Kissatens and Cafes, where should you go first? Don’t worry; I recently went on a Kissaten adventure, finding all the best spots to share with you. When you’re sightseeing around the main parts of Tokyo and don’t want to travel too far, these are for you: Café Trois Ba`gues Right around the corner from the A5 exit of Jimbocho Station and down the narrow stairs is a delightful little kissaten called Café Trois Bagues. This place might seem a little bit misleading at first; even though it has Café in its name, it actually falls under the kissaten category. Opened in 1976, they use aged coffee beans, which they then slowly roast and lovingly hand pour over a flannel filter, giving the coffee a smooth texture and deep, rich flavor. As usual, there was a big counter that I decided to sit at this time because it wasn’t so crowded, as well as tables in the back corner. The walls behind the bar are lined with adorable cups and saucers. Sitting at the bar made things a little awkward for me because I kept making eye contact with one of the employees who was busy right in front of me. They were constantly on the move: pouring coffee, preparing food, and waiting on tables. Despite the lighting being on the dark side and the gentle jazz, it was a little difficult to relax. A corner table would perhaps have been more my style. It was not very crowded upon my visit, but the conversation was lively. I quickly noticed that they don’t seem to just serve coffee, offering an incredible selection of wine and beer for afternoon consumption. Their coffee blends tended to lean more on the bitter, dark-roasted side, except for the Jimbocho blend. In regards to food, the menu offers quite a few desserts. I had a delectable coffee with a splash of Cointreau and a dusting of cinnamon. Since I have been sticking with toast or sandwiches, I ordered the toast au gratin. It was thickly sliced and toasted bread, with ham in the middle and a rich, peppery white sauce on the top. It was a rich, wonderful meal that I had never experienced before. Address: Japan, 〒101-0051 Tokyo, Chiyoda City, Kanda Jinbocho, 1 Chome−12−1 富田ビル B1F Open Hours: Monday - Friday: 10 am - 8 pm, Saturday: 12 pm - 7 pm Price Range: ¥1,000–2,000 per person Website: http://troisbagues.com/ (No smoking) Chatei Hatou 茶亭羽當 Residing in Shibuya since 1989, the Chatei Hatou is a well-loved kissaten in the area. Located a small walk up Miyamasu Hill will, its easy accessibility is surely part of its charm. Surrounded by the warmth of wood and displays of antique tableware, the shop has an alluring interior. There is even one table that has a tree growing in the center of it! Given its location, they do offer an English menu; however, when I attended, the waiting staff still only communicated with me using body language. Still, it was great to see so many non-Japanese tourists in the restaurant, enjoying their coffee and cakes. It was very large for a kissaten and very clearly popular because the place was packed, even having a short wait line to be seated. To accommodate all of the guests, there was a considerable number of staff behind the counter. As far as the price goes, it was a little more on the expensive side, but that was also probably due to its location in such a tourist-driven area. Their most popular dish is their chiffon cake, which sells out extremely quickly, so make sure to get there early if you’re craving a slice! I myself indulged in a croque monsieur sandwich. Essentially, a ham and cheese toastie that had just the right amount of pepper and a few slices of mushroom. For my beverage, I decided on the café au lait glacé because I had never heard of it before. It’s a blend of coffee, sweetened milk, and cream. Trust me when I say it was pure heaven in a glass. Please note that if you plan to visit, you need to come prepared, as they only accept cash payments! Address: 1 Chome-15-19 Shibuya, Tokyo 150-0002, Japan Opening Hours: 7 days a week: 11 am - 11 pm Price Range: ¥1,000–2,000 per person Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hatou_coffee_shibuya/ (Small smoking room) Coffee Hall Kugutsusou くぐつ草 A wee bit on the west side of Tokyo, on the Chuo Line, there is a station called Kichijoji. Known as “the most popular city to live in,” there is a highly popular kissaten here called Kugutsusou. Opened in 1979 by the Edo Ito Marashiro Puppet Theater Company Yukiza, it’s listed on every kissaten ranking website that you’ll find. When visiting, it’s not uncommon to find a line going out the door and down the steep stairs; this spot is just that popular. It has an exceedingly unique interior; the walls are an arch made of clay, dotted with alcoves of dried flowers, driftwood, and candles, lending to the feeling of being in a cave. Further adding to the ambiance is the dark wooden bar in the back and the furniture, all encapsulated with soft, warm lighting. The menus were hand-bound out of leather, which added a fun little bonus to the already uniquely crafted experience of the kissa. Because it’s a popular kissaten, it is a little on the loud side. The usually soft jazz was at a higher volume, and many loud conversations were competing with both themselves and the music. This factor may also partially be due to the surprising number of young couples that made up the large quantity of customers. Certainly not the usual patrons you come to expect from a kissaten. There's a wide variety of coffee brews available, and they also offer alcoholic beverages all day, but Kugutsusou’s popularity actually lies with its curry over rice. A gorgeous blend of spices with just the right amount of kick, it was truly delicious. Including the chunks of beef that melt in your mouth, it couldn’t have been better. They also offer a simple takeout menu of curry, curry over rice, and, of course, coffee. Drinkwise, I personally ordered an Irish latté, which consists of a shot of espresso with Irish whiskey. It was a little bitter, considering the combination of espresso and alcohol, but the whipped cream on top balanced it out nicely. Be prepared to spend; for its popularity, it was the priciest kissaten that I visited on my trip. Address: Japan, 〒180-0004 Tokyo, Musashino, Kichijoji Honcho, 1 Chome−7−7 島田ビル B1階 Opening Hours: 7 days a week: 10 am - 10 pm Price Range: ¥1,000–2,000 per person Website: https://www.kugutsusou.info/ (No smoking) Café Trois Chambres Located in Shimokitazawa, just one station from Shibuya on the Inokashira Line Express train, on the southern exit of the shopping street, up a set of narrow steps is Café Trois Chambres. It was nice to go up a good set of stairs for once, although they were still quite narrow. At the top is a smoking area, which is also where customers line up to get into this popular kissa. It was surprisingly crowded with young people and couples. There are tables deep in the back of the place, but I was seated at the counter because it was so busy. Only two employees were serving roughly thirty guests, so there was a bit of a wait for the orders to come out. Like all but one of the kissa that I visited, it was woody with jazz music playing, loud conversations, and low lighting. And again, it was decorated with antique china and milk pitchers, however, the walls were bare, with no vintage posters in sight. Keeping with tradition, this was one location where you could still smoke. The guests were definitely taking advantage of that fact, as the kissaten was a literal cloud of smoke. They are highly regarded for their cheesecake, both baked and no-bake. But, it usually goes quickly, so get there early before it sells out. Their coffee is flannel-dripped, creating the perfect balance of sour and bitter. I again went for an Irish latté, and this one came piping hot with a large portion of cream. Continuing with my ordering of sandwiches and toast, I got their cinnamon toast. A chunky slice of bread, it was covered in sugar and a slight bit of cinnamon that was then flambéed to crunchy perfection. Served with a side of whipped cream, it was reminiscent of French toast. I was in cream heaven with both my latté and cinnamon toast. This kissaten is definitely not recommended for asthmatics or just people who plain dislike smoking. Also, bear in mind that they take cash only, so make sure to prepare accordingly. Address: Japan, 〒155-0032 Tokyo, Setagaya City, Daizawa, 5 Chome−36−14 湯浅ビル 2階 Opening Hours: 7 days a week: 9:30 am - 8 pm Price Range: ¥1–1,000 per person (Heavy smoking) Looking for a Little Adventure? Now that we’ve had a look at some of the best spots within the cities, let’s move on to something a bit more off the beaten track. For those who prefer to have a bit more of an adventure when traveling to their kissaten, here are my recommendations: Monozuki 物豆奇 As for location, Monozuki is in a very convenient place; however, its atmosphere was something completely different from the other kissa that I visited, and that’s why I put it in the adventurous section. One station east of Kichijoji, on the Chuo Line, is Nishi-Ogikubo, and just a seven-minute walk from the station is this charming kissaten called Monozuki. Walking through their door feels like slipping into the world of Alice in Wonderland. Of course, there is the requisite dark wood and tile, but Monozuki takes it to a whole different level. Since its establishment in 1975, there has been plenty of time to cover nearly every inch of the walls with vintage clocks, prints, and lamps. On top of that, the flooring is real radial brickwork, and the bar is made of brick as well. But perhaps the most eye-catching feature is the functioning traditional fire pit in the center of the kissa. The layout is a bit of a maze, but it made for an exceptional experience. Even with the lamps lit everywhere, the space is relaxing. An atmosphere that was only added to be the light piano jazz playing in the background. The customers were surprisingly young, and the couple sitting next to me were having a very lively conversation. The other patrons were single, and most were happy, just enjoying their coffees and reading books. The master provides a variety of curated beans that he hand-drips. The basic blended coffee is a mix of Mocha, Colombia, Brazil, and Mandheling beans, making it more on the sour end. The ham toastie was wonderful: a crispy toasted sandwich with thick ham, no onions, and a rich mustard and mayonnaise sauce. Considering its location on the Chuo Line, the prices were quite reasonable. I definitely recommend it just for the atmosphere. Unfortunately, they don’t have any social media, so you will just have to visit and see for yourself! Address: 3 Chome-12-10 Nishiogikita, Suginami City, Tokyo 167-0042, Japan Opening Hours: 7 days a week: 11:30 am - 8 pm Price Range: ¥1–1,000 per person (No smoking) Kissa , (ten) The Seibu Shinjuku Line leaves from Shinjuku Station to the commuter town side of Tokyo. You’ll find plenty of parks dotted among the residential areas just outside the main part of Tokyo, and perhaps a chance for adventure if you decide to take a stroll. And just a hop, skip, and jump away from the Higashi Fushimi Station on this line, you’ll come across Kissa , (ten). Kissa , (ten) offers a large variety of blends and straight coffee beans, from a morning blend to Kilimanjaro. Their special Musashino blend is the perfect balance of sour and bitter, making for a wonderfully delicious cup of joe. The coffee is siphon brewed, and if you sit at the bar counter, you even get to watch the sumptuous globes of coffee while they brew. The coffee is delivered to your table in beautiful cups and saucers by Noritake and Wedgewood. They also specialize in confectioneries. Lovingly crafted by Shoko-san, they are beautifully displayed in a showcase of delicious cakes and, of course, the cake of the day. It is one of the rare times that I have seen carrot cake in Japan. I enjoyed their honey toast, which was a thick slice of bread, crunchy on the outside and fluffy on the inside, smothered in honey and butter without being overly sweet. For a kissa, their floor plan was quite spacious. There is plenty of room to walk, and the tables are not crammed together. The wood was light in color with brick accents, and the lights were at a normal brightness. Apart from a light piano jazz in the background, it was peaceful, with a few people even taking the chance to read books at their tables. It was by far the most relaxing kissaten that I went to. Address: 4 Chome-15-9 Fujimachi, Nishitokyo, Tokyo 202-0014, Japan Opening Hours: 7 days a week: 9 am - 9 pm Price Range: ¥1,000–2,000 per person Website: https://kissa-ten.jimdosite.com/ (No smoking) Visiting several kissaten was an interesting experience for me. Expecting to step into the past, it seems that while the distinct atmosphere, food, and passion for quality coffee have been maintained, the crowd that visits kissa has changed with the times. I came in expecting to be greeted by an older, calmer generation, but the majority were young people having extremely animated conversations with their friends and significant others. Whether tucked away in hidden alleys or nestled within the bustle of Tokyo, kissaten provide a rich sensory experience, from antique decor to carefully curated beverages, that invites patrons to pause and enjoy the moment with a one-of-a-kind treat. Feature photo credit: Ned Snowman On a trip to Tokyo? Join our Daytime and Evening Hanami tours this spring to truly enjoy the sakura this season!

Arigato Travel

13.03.2025

Mastering the Art of Japanese Cuisine: An Inside Look at a Culinary College in London | Arigato Travel

Many of you reading this have probably had sushi before, and maybe some of you have even wondered how it’s made, but perhaps no one has thought about seeking an education specifically for the making of sushi. At the Tokyo College of Sushi and Washoku London, anyone including you can learn more about this unique Japanese food, better yet, how to make it and master your own creation of sushi. There are two programs for full-time and part-time, 6 months and 6 weeks. With fully personalized programs as well, people from any culinary level can start this program to try and get their degree. While not just sushi, but also washoku (Japanese food), degree seekers can expand their knowledge and culinary horizons on Japanese food beyond the popular dishes. Thus, in this article, we will chat with Masaru Watanabe, principal of the Tokyo College of Sushi and Washoku London. Hello Masaru, thank you for taking the time to talk with us today. Could you please introduce yourself and share about your background and your relationship with Japan and Japanese food? I am a founder of the Tokyo College of Sushi and Washoku, established in 2016 in Tokyo, Japan. This is a Japanese government-authorized cookery college. As all of you may expect, I am a big foody, and I spend a lot of time searching for Japanese restaurants in Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka and many other cities in Japan, to look for nice and beautiful Japanese cuisine. I also studied Japanese cuisine history and backgrounds from a cultural anthropological aspect. Can you tell us the inspiration behind starting a culinary college for Japanese sushi and food in London? Currently, Japanese cuisine is so popular all over the world because it’s healthy, beautiful, and sustainable. The number of Japanese restaurants outside Japan has more than tripled in the last 10 years (55,000 in 2013, 187,000 in 2023). Lots of international students want to apply to my college in Tokyo. However, they can not get student visas because of their Japanese language proficiency. So, we decided that we would launch our branch in London and teach all the skills and knowledge of Japanese cuisine in English. Is the sushi and washoku scene huge in London? Yes, there are so many Japanese restaurants in London, from quite exclusive to fairly reasonable. In the UK, there was a 20% increase in Japanese restaurants every year, especially after COVID. I think people pay more attention to taking care of their health. Can you describe what goes on in a course at Tokyo College of Sushi and Washoku? We have a 6-month professional Diploma course that is a 4-day-a-week full-time program. After the completion of this program, students may receive a Diploma and be awarded the “Japanese Chef Certificate” from the Japanese government. Also, we have 6-week short-term courses that are 4 days a week, and some one-day-a-week specified topic courses, such as Sushi, Washoku (hot dishes), Food culture, and so on. We also offer tailor-made industrial training for current chefs. Does one need culinary experience to apply/join the program, or are beginners welcome as well? Are there any requirements for enrolling in the programs or the workshops? No previous experience is required. Same with our HQ college in Tokyo, we welcome anyone over 18 years old. As we describe it particularly, we welcome anyone who loves eating and Japanese culture. Can you explain some of the workshops available at this institution? We have a one-day Master's program for chefs or hospitality industry people to enhance their skills. We also offer another type of one-day Master's program in public, just to enjoy cooking Japanese dishes and cultures. What can students expect at the beginning of the course and the end of the program? The first part of the program is to learn how to use Japanese knives. As you know, Japanese knives are unique with a single-blade style. There are several kinds, just for sashimi, vegetables, and so on. At the end of the program, each student may develop their own Japanese course menu and operate their own restaurant. They invite their family or friends to our college counter classrooms and work as the owner chef. This is their final assignment. Are there any shorter programs or events available for tourists who want to learn about sushi making? Yes, of course. We are happy to organize any type of short course for visitors and tourists. We are the only college that teaches authentic Japanese cooking by Japanese chefs in English in the entire world. What skills do you think people will gain and/or improve by participating in workshops or enrolling in programs at this culinary college? Through our program, I am convinced that all participants’ ability to sense taste will be enhanced tremendously. One of the features of Japanese cuisine is to make the most of the ingredients' original taste. Many modern cuisines are too strong or greasy to appreciate the delicious taste of each ingredient. Once you learn Japanese cuisine, your ability to sense the deliciousness of each specified flavor will be greatly enhanced. Is there anything else you would like to share with our readers? I would like all people to enjoy Japanese cuisine. Then, you will become healthier and have a long-lasting, sustainable life in the future. With sushi being such a popular cultural dish enjoyed across the world, it’s amazing that there are culinary skill-building opportunities for such a dish, too. Whether readers want to learn more about sushi, participate in a workshop, or take part in one of the programs, there is now an abundance of information to help educate them on this culinary school. Where to find Tokyo College of Sushi and Washoku: Website: https://www.sushicollege.uk/events/workshops Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/SushiCollegeUK X: https://x.com/SushiCollegeUK Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SushiCollegeUK Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@TokyoCollege_Sushi_Washoku_LDN Featured Photo Credit: Tokyo College of Sushi and Washoku If you love Japanese cuisine and will be coming to Japan, come check out our many amazing food tours across the country for a truly authentic washoku experience!

Arigato Travel

11.03.2025

An Exploration of Tailored Travel: Interview with Arigato Travel GM Lauren Shannon | Arigato Travel

Can you please introduce yourself and your role in the company? My name is Lauren Shannon, and I've called Japan home for nearly 30 years. My extensive experience living and working in Japan has given me a unique understanding of Japanese culture and business practices. Almost 9 years ago, I took on the role of General Manager at Arigato Travel, where I also became a part owner. My passion for travel, food, and continuous learning has been instrumental in my success in this role. I thrive on the challenges and opportunities that come with leading a team and bridging the gap between different cultures. Every day brings something new, and I'm constantly adapting and finding innovative solutions. How are you feeling about the launch of the Custom and Multi-Day Operations team? What does this milestone mean for you personally and for the company? I'm thrilled to be expanding our offerings beyond food tours and leveraging our extensive network built over decades to provide truly unique experiences for guests visiting Japan. Our new team is incredibly passionate and dedicated to crafting extraordinary itineraries and trip plans. It's inspiring to witness the team's growth and to embark on this new adventure together. We're excited to share our deep knowledge and connections with our guests, offering them unparalleled access to the rich culture, history, and natural beauty of Japan. Now that you’ve officially got the travel agency license, what new doors do you think this opens for the brand and your customers? The potential for growth and expansion seems limitless. Every day brings new possibilities - whether it's exploring partnerships, connecting with new clients and travel groups, or uncovering hidden gems in destinations across Japan, from the snowy landscapes of Hokkaido to the tropical beaches of Okinawa. Just recently, I had the incredible opportunity to immerse myself in the beauty of Okinawa. I visited stunning resorts and charming boutique hotels, participated in authentic local cooking classes, and experienced firsthand the rich textile traditions of the islands. These experiences have inspired a wealth of ideas for unique and enriching activities that we can offer to our guests in the future. The future is bright, and I have a strong feeling that 2025 will be a year of remarkable growth and exciting new opportunities. Looking back, what are some standout moments in your journey so far? What’s been the most rewarding part of your growth? Some standout moments occurred at the end of 2022 and the start of 2023 when Japan reopened and guests were again able to come to see us. The work we did to prepare, learn new things, and work with new partners all came into play at that time and it was so inspiring to see how many people were waiting. I also wanted to share some thoughts from our CEO, Anne Kyle, on this subject. She says

Arigato Travel

10.03.2025

10 reasons to visit Nagoya | Arigato Travel

When we think of traveling to Japan, more often than not, we think of big cities such as Tokyo, Kyoto, or even Osaka. But beyond these wonderful cities, there are some lesser-known, beautiful hidden gems. One of these hidden destinations is the wondrous city of Nagoya. Nagoya is the fourth largest city in Japan, yet still less crowded than the main three big cities, rendering it a sweet haven for fellow introverts and those who are seeking peace after experiencing congested trains and other aspects of the city. Aichi Prefecture’s capital also distinguishes itself with its rich history, food culture, and beautiful natural scenery, but also with its science and industrial center. As you can see, Nagoya has a lot to offer, and if you’re looking for more, this blog will help you see all of what is within this great city. Museums For all automobile lovers, and more importantly for all Toyota fans, this museum within Nagoya might just be your paradise. For others, if you are seeking a journey through culture and history or if you are searching for a different kind of adventure, the following may pique your interest. Nagoya is home to not one, but three museums entirely dedicated to Toyota Industries. Toyota Commemorative Museum of Industry and Technology Now, if you are interested in history, I would highly recommend you visit the Toyota Commemorative Museum of Industry and Technology. The museum invites you to a journey through time. You start by traveling back in the past and learning about Toyota’s beginnings and continue further along the timeline until you reach the present, to the majestic empire it has become. Learn more about its growth, from a textile machinery manufacturer to using modern robotics to construct cars. Comprehend its story as well as the secrets and mechanics behind its immense success. In a way, visiting the museum will make you feel like you are part of its journey. Opening hours: Monday (9:00 - 17:00), Tuesday to Sunday (9:30 - 17:00) - Last entry: 16:30 Entrance Fee: Adults (≥18) - 1,000¥; (≥65) - 600¥; Free for preschool children Location: Noritakeshinmachi, Nishi Ward, Nagoya, Aichi Website: トヨタ産業技術記念館 (tcmit.org) For more details, please visit the website Toyota Kaikan Museum Did you know that the city of Koromo officially changed its name, in 1959, to Toyota, following the automobile manufacturer’s huge success? Even funnier, both Toyota Motor Corporation’s headquarters as well as the Toyota Kaikan Museum are located in the city of Toyota, not too far from Nagoya. The Toyota Kaikan Museum opened in 1977 and is one of the manufacturer’s oldest museums. The building offers a variety of interactive exhibits, such as a car simulator or the C+walk ride. Not only that, but it also has a showroom displaying the latest models and an area dedicated to children. However, I must admit that the pinnacle of the museum is the lovely musician robot, which greets each visitor by playing a melodious tune on its violin. And the cherry on the cake: The entrance is free. Opening hours: Monday to Saturday (9:30 - 17:00), Closed: Sunday - Last entry: 16:30 Entrance Fee: Free Location: Toyotacho, Toyota, Aichi Website: トヨタ会館 (toyota.co.jp) For more details, please visit the website Toyota Automobile Museum There is a third Toyota museum located in Nagakute, not too far from Nagoya, which commemorates the history, culture, and evolution of automobiles by displaying cars from all around the world. A must-see place for any automobile enthusiast! Opening hours: Tuesday to Sunday (9:30 - 17:00); Closed - Monday/Tuesday when Monday falls on a public holiday - Last entry: 16:30 Entrance Fee: Adults (≥18) - 1,200¥; (≥65) - 700¥; Free for preschool children Location: Yokomichi, Nagakute, Aichi Website: Toyota Automobile Museum | A museum that tracks the evolution and culture of cars in the world For more details, please visit the website Tokugawa Art Museum Now, if you are passionate about Japan, its history, and its artifacts, I would highly recommend the Tokugawa Art Museum. The museum possesses a large and priceless collection of art pieces and heirlooms inherited and owned by the Owari Tokugawa family, a daimyō (feudal lord) family from the Edo period. Originally belonging to Tokugawa Ieyasu, the first shogun and founder of the Tokugawa shogunate, his treasures were bequeathed to the Owari, Mito, and Kii branches, after his death. Some of the items also passed through the hands of important and renowned historical figures such as Nobunaga Oda and Sen no Rikyū. The museum truly honors Japanese history and culture with its “9 designated National Treasures, 59 Important Cultural Properties, and 46 Important Art Objects” (Tokugawa Art Museum) from the Edo period. In the New Hall, based on Nagoya Castle’s architectural design, you may witness replicas of the formal living quarters of the Owari clan, the same as they were in the Ninomaru Goten of Nagoya Castle. To finish off your visit, you may enjoy taking a stroll in the Tokugawa Garden or venture inside the Hōsa library and explore the hundreds of historical texts and records. I can guarantee that both places will bring you peace and tranquility. Opening hours: Tuesday to Sunday (10:30 - 17:00); Closed - Monday/Tuesday when Monday falls on a public holiday - Last entry: 16:30 Entrance Fee: Adults - 1,600¥; Students - 800¥; Children - 500¥ Location: Tokugawacho, Higashi Ward, Nagoya, Aichi Website: Tokugawa Art Museum (tokugawa-art-museum.jp) For more details, please visit the website Nagoya City Science Museum If you are anything like me, science and nature are words that are close to your heart. If that is the case for anyone reading, the next one on our list will steal your heart. As a preliminary point, let me point out that Aichi Prefecture paved the way for leading Japan’s Aerospace industry. Did you know that parts of the International Space Station and parts of the rockets that took them to space were produced in Aichi Prefecture? Fascinating, isn’t it? The Nagoya City Science Museum takes pride in rendering the field more accessible to the public. At this location, you can experience a journey beyond the stars, and learn more about our universe and its natural wonders, through displays and live performances. Additionally, you can gain a better understanding of the latest technology used in creating a spacecraft, of the components behind the whole structure, and their importance and functions. Enjoy the many exhibits, the replicas of real rockets, and space stations, and most importantly, take advantage of one of the world’s largest planetariums. But this museum is much more than that. Nagoya City Science Museum makes sure to encompass and touch every area of science. From microbiology to fossils and dinosaurs, from periodic tables to house structures and electricity, and everything in between, there is something to learn no matter where you turn. The bonus part, you can test a tornado simulator, and if that’s not enough thrill for you, I dare you to try the Deep Freezing Lab. Opening hours: Tuesday to Sunday (9:30 - 17:00); Closed - Monday/Tuesday when Monday falls on a public holiday, the 3rd Friday of the month - Last entry: 16:30 Entrance Fee: Museum & Planetarium: Adults (800¥), High school & university students (500¥), Junior High School students and under (Free); Museum only: Adults (400¥), High school & university students (200¥), Junior High School students and under (Free) Location: Shirakawa Park, Naka Ward, Nagoya, Aichi Website: Nagoya City Science Museum For more details, please visit the website SCMaglev and Railway Park Another fun attraction that you can do while in Nagoya, is to visit the SCMaglev and Railway Park. It is a fun activity, not only for avid train lovers but for the general public as well. Opened in 2011, and owned by the Central Japan Railways (JR Central), the museum was established to highlight the importance of the railway industry and the consequences of its development on the Japanese economy. But, truthfully said, its impact goes far beyond that. The growth of Japanese society, its culture, and its lifestyle, all of these areas have been greatly influenced by the progress of the railway industry. The museum, not only, teaches us the history and evolution of trains, through displays of various models, some of which you can enter. But it also explains the functioning and role of its mechanics and components, by installing divers simulators. Every generation can find joy in exploring the museum. From steam locomotives to modern-day shinkansen and Superconducting Magnetically Levitated Vehicle (Maglev), unravel all the secrets. Opening hours: Monday to Sunday (except on Tuesday) (10:00 - 17:30); Closed - Tuesday/Wednesday when Tuesday falls on a public holiday - Last entry: 17:00 Entrance Fee: Until the 05/31/25 the price will be as following: Adults (1000¥), Students (500¥), 3 years old and above (200¥); From 06/01/25 onwards: Adults (1200¥), Students (500¥), 3 years old and above (200¥) Location: Kinjofuto, Minato Ward, Nagoya, Aichi Website: SCMAGLEV and Railway Park | Central Japan Railway Company For more details, please visit the website Theme Parks We have talked a lot about museums, but did you know that Nagoya is also famous for its legendary theme parks such as the Ghibli Park (not to get confused with the Ghibli Museum in Tokyo), Legoland, and Sea Life Nagoya? Ghibli Park Throughout the years, Ghibli Studios graciously cradled us with a plethora of stupendous universes, exciting storylines bringing tears and joy, and, above all, endearing characters. Each one of their cinematographic worlds succeeded in transporting the viewer to another dimension, through the beauty of their drawings and their unique animation style. The opening of the Ghibli Museum in Mitaka, in October 2001 made the fans overjoyed. But, how would you like it, if I told you that near Nagoya, the city of Nagakute was also graced with its own Ghibli-themed park? Opened on the first of November 2022, Ghibli Park welcomes its visitors by recreating the diverse universes seen in its movies, immersing them into its ethereal world, right as they enter. The park contains 5 main areas spread across the grounds of Moricoro Park: Ghibli's Grand Warehouse, Hill of Youth, Dondoko Forest, Mononoke Village, and Valley of Witches. While the park doesn’t really have thrilling rides such as roller coasters, it does have, nonetheless, softer rides, suitable for children and for creating a gentler atmosphere. Opening hours: Monday to Friday (except Tuesday) (10:00 - 17:00); Weekends (9:00-17:00) - Closed: Tuesday/Wednesday when Tuesday falls on a public holiday Entrance Fee: Adults (weekday: 7300¥ and weekend: 7800¥ - access to all areas), Children (weekday: 3650¥ and weekend: 3900¥ - access to all areas) Location: Ibaragabasama, Nagakute, Aichi Website: Ghibli Park For more details, please visit the website Legoland Japan We all have some fond memories with LEGOS, whether as a child, spending hours constructing and deconstructing our creations, or in recent years, enjoying the LEGO movies with your family. Well, what if you could recreate those reminiscences and bring them back to life by entering this amazing amusement park? Indeed, for the great pleasure of all ages alike, Legoland welcomes its visitors with eight themed lands, made out of 17 million LEGO bricks and 10,000 LEGO models, and with over 40 rides, workshops, and performances. Legoland lets you create your own adventure by playing, building, and rearranging the bricks as your imagination dictates. And if you or your children get tired, rest at one of the creative restaurants for LEGO brick-shaped churros or french fries. Opening hours: Everyday (10:00 - 17:00) Entrance Fee: Adult (4500¥~), Children (3 to 18 years old) (3300¥~) Location: Kinjoufutou, Minato Ward, Nagoya, Aichi Website: 【Official】Welcome to LEGOLAND® Japan Resort For more details, please visit the website Sea Life Nagoya While you are visiting Legoland, make sure to visit the Sea Life Nagoya as well. This lovely aquarium, only a minute away from the theme park, introduces you to a variety of majestic and intriguing inhabitants of the sea. Discover all eleven zones that it offers: from creative workshops where your drawings come to life, to coral reefs and sunken ships, passing through the tale of Urashima Taro, just to name a few. The beauty of Sea Life Nagoya is that it combines both real marine animals, more than 3,500 creatures, and LEGO character figures. Opening hours: Everyday (11:00 - 18:00) - Last entry: 17:30 Entrance Fee: Adult (1800¥~), Children (3 to 18 years old) (1400¥~) Location: Kinjoufutou, Minato Ward, Nagoya, Aichi Website: SEA LIFE Nagoya | LEGOLAND® Japan Resort For more details, please visit the website Midland Square Sky Promenade If you would rather prefer a much more relaxing and slow-paced activity, the Midland Square Sky Promenade is the one for you. Opened in 2017 and located in the tallest building in Nagoya, fifth if you count the whole of Japan, the Sky Promenade offers its visitors a 360-degree panoramic view of the scenic city. Beyond the staggering height of the building, 247 meters, the uniqueness of this attraction resides in the fact that you get to experience a view of the cityscape from three different floors: 44th, 45th, and 46th. The entrance to the Sky Promenade is, however, on the 42nd floor. To top it off, not only will you get the opportunity to enjoy a nice breeze by dint of the open roof, but you may also explore the rest of the building in search of nice restaurants, cafés, shops, or even the cinema theater. Opening hours: Everyday (11:00 - 22:00) - Last admission: 21:30 Entrance Fee: Adult (1000¥), Senior (500¥), High school students (500¥), Elementary School Students (3 to 18 years old) (500¥/Free on weekends and holidays) Location: Meieki, Nakamura Ward, Nagoya, Aichi Website: Sky Promenade｜Midland Square For more details, please visit the website Chubu Electric Power MIRAI TOWER There is another famous observatory deck that you should visit while in Nagoya, and it is the Chubu Electric Power MIRAI TOWER. Now, you may ask what the point is in visiting two different observation platforms, to which I would reply that the Mirai Tower is much more than just a viewing point. Constructed in 1954, the Chubu Electric Power MIRAI TOWER holds an important historical meaning as it represents the first consolidated radio tower erected in Japan. Its momentousness can also be perceived in the pop culture world, as it was featured in two Godzilla movies. Needless to say, this tower has become an icon for the city. At the height of 90 meters, you can enjoy the panoramic 360° degree that the indoor Sky Deck Mirai 360 offers. On the other hand, at the height of 100 meters, you can appreciate and relax in the lovely open-air Sky Balcony. Moreover, do not forget to stop at the café and the souvenir shop on the 3rd floor. While the former will allow you to unwind, the latter will make you travel back in time with its loads of original products. Fun fact: The Base Lab café was produced by Sir Kazuyuki Ishi who worked as a music producer on numerous TV dramas and movies, such as Rurouni Kenshin. Opening hours: Weekdays (10:00 - 21:00); Weekends (10:00 - 21:40) Entrance Fee: Adult (1300¥), Children (800¥) Location: Nishiki, Naka Ward, Nagoya, Aichi Website: Chubu Electric Power MIRAI TOWER Official Website For more details, please visit the website Nagoya’s exquisite food One of the most important reasons for which you should visit the wonderful city of Nagoya is the variety of delectable food that it provides. Nagoya Morning Service Did you know that you can enjoy free breakfast in Nagoya? Yes, you heard me right. Many Nagoyan cafés have the custom of providing their clients with a complimentary breakfast if they just order a drink. It is believed that the tradition originated in Ichinomiya, a city about 20 kilometers north of Nagoya. Ichinomiya being known for its textile industry with its loud machinery, hosting business meetings in the factories became unsuitable. Therefore, the meetings would be held in a different location, namely in local coffee shops. To maintain the loyalty of their customers, the owners would often offer a free snack along with their orders. Over time, due to the popularity of the method as well as the competitiveness that it brought, the amount of free food began to increase until it became a full breakfast set. Nowadays, you usually get a slice of toast and hard-boiled eggs. Depending on the café, you can also get an Ogura Toast, a toast with sweet red bean paste. Hitsumabushi Another Nagoyan signature dish is Hitsumabushi. It consists of grilled eel thinly cut into small strips glazed in a sweet soy sauce, on top of rice. It differs from a regular Unagi-don (eel over rice), as Hitsumubashi is considered to be a more lavish dish due to the various condiments that come with it. Indeed, it is often accompanied by green onions, nori (seaweed), wasabi, dashi (soup stock) or green tea, and sometimes, mitsuba (Japanese parsley). There is also a specific method to consume it: Eat the eel and rice as it is. Eat the eel and rice with the solid condiments. Pour the warm stock over the dish and add as many condiments as per your liking. Tenmusu If you are an onigiri fan, you must try Nagoya’s famous version of the classic rice ball, also known as Tenmusu. Tenmusu is an onigiri that has been filled with shrimp tempura and wrapped in nori (seaweed). A true Nagoyan delicacy, not only easy to make but also easy to take away and eat at your own pace. Misokatsu Now, if tonkatsu is your thing, let me preface by telling you that Nagoya put its own spin on it and created another delicious version called Misokatsu. This succulent dish is made out of crispy deep-fried breaded pork served with an appetizing dark colored and smoky flavored Hatcho miso sauce. Compared to its counterparts, the three main ingredients of Hatcho miso are soybeans, water, and salt. In other terms, it doesn’t use any additional grain components, making it stronger in taste with hints of sweetness. Arimatsu Arimatsu is a town in the south-eastern suburbs of Nagoya, renowned for two reasons. The first is because it was built on a famous ancient highway called the Tokaido, which linked Kyoto to Edo during the Shogunate period. To this day, Arimatsu has preserved the image of its former townscape with old shops, wooden houses, as well as warehouses from the samurai era. The second reason is because Arimatsu is the birthplace of the Narumi Shibori method. While Japan already had a long history with Shibori (the Japanese traditional tie-dye method), the entrepreneur Takeda Shokura developed the style into a more refined and intricate art form, thus creating the Arimatsu Narumi Shibori method. From 1608 and then onwards, the exquisite patterns were so well-liked that they propelled Arimatsu to fame and prosperity. It was THE place to go if you wanted to buy sophisticated cloth with quality and detailed work. If you want to travel back in time, specifically in the Edo period, or if you just want to deepen your knowledge about Japanese textile and tie-dye industry, I would highly recommend you visit Arimatsu and the Arimatsu-Narumi Tie-Dyeing Museum. Arimatsu-Narumi Tie-Dyeing Museum Opening hours: Everyday (9:30 - 17:00 - Demonstration: Until 16:30) Entrance Fee: Adult (300¥), Elementary, junior high, and high school students (100¥) Location: Arimatsu, Midori Ward, Nagoya, Aichi Website: 有松・鳴海絞会館 | 有松絞りの歴史や資料｜有松の史跡と名所巡り｜有松絞商工協同組合 For more details, please visit the website Nikko Style Nagoya Now, traveling and visiting can be quite tiring, therefore, you need a good place to stay, somewhere where you will feel like you got your money’s worth. Well, I have the perfect place for you. Indeed, I have saved the best for last. Let me present to you an incredible hotel that mingles history and culture with modernity’s artistic sensitivity. I present to you: Nikko Style Nagoya. Everything in this hotel has been thoroughly thought through to make the client feel completely relaxed and immersed in the Nagoyan culture. The hotel was minutely designed to awaken and appeal to all of our senses. From the choice of art and decoration reflecting the local culture, to the music carefully selected to appease our ears. And let us not put aside the delightful aroma of freshly brewed coffee tickling our nose. But more than that, Nikko Style Nagoya was constructed to create a space where people could meet each other, to build a sense of community and meaningful connections. Somewhere where locals and travelers could cross paths while discussing and discovering Nagoyan culture. As a matter of fact, the hotel offers various guided tours to help you navigate and find the true hidden gems of the city. This charming lodging, close to Nagoya station, has a lot to offer, and its main purpose is the well-being of its customers, so why not give it a try? If you do need more information, please visit their website. Furthermore, you can also read the interview we conducted with the manager of the hotel, as well as our other article going in-depth about the establishment. Location: Meieki, Nakamura Ward, Nagoya, Aichi Website: Official Website | Nikko Style Nagoya | Book a Lifesytle hotel in Nagoya For more details, please visit the website Plenty of reasons to visit Nagoya As you can see, Nagoya is an endearing and intriguing city with a lot of fun activities to do and luscious food to try. And yet, the above list only lists 10 points among the endless amount of things that you can do and see in this beautiful city. Nagoya has the big advantage of being less known than Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto, rendering it more peaceful and less crowded than the other three cities. But this quietude doesn’t equate to weariness. On the contrary, throughout history the city has continued to develop in many areas, notably a noticeable growth in the field of Science and in the textile industry, rendering it an epicenter for cultural and historical activities. But more than that, it also offers a beautiful contrast between its incessant industrial growth and its ethereal natural landscape, surrounded by majestic mountains and plains, by the sea and rivers. If I haven’t convinced you of the charms of this lovely city yet, let me emphasize the quality and diversity of the food, with Nagoya having its own spin on many of the known dishes, mingling creativity and deliciousness, as well as the friendliness of the locals. There are a lot of hidden gems concealed throughout the city, whether those are places, food, or people. Nagoya is a charming and enchanting place waiting for you to explore it. Featured Photo Credit: Vinay Jayaram If you've booked a summer vacation to Japan, then be sure to check out our summer tours for an in-depth Japanese culinary experience!

Arigato Travel

08.03.2025

Charming Small Towns in Honshu | Arigato Travel

As the largest island in Japan, Honshu offers so many small towns to be explored! Tokyo often steals the spotlight when it comes to visiting Japan; however, there are numerous small towns scattered across Honshu, each offering its own unique allure. Whether you’re drawn to ancient shrines, stunning gardens, or simply the tranquility of rural life, Honshu’s small towns offer a delightful escape from the bustling cities. While the list of charming towns to explore in Honshu is endless, you’ll find plenty of favorites to discover and savor for your adventure! Odate, Akita Prefecture This charming town is renowned for its breathtaking natural scenery and connection to the beloved Akita dog breed. If you want to learn more about these adorable dogs, there is free admission to the Akita Dog Visitor Centre, only three minutes away from the JR Odate Station. Or pick up a small souvenir at the Akita Dog Station operated by ONE FOR AKITA, an organization that works to raise awareness for the dog breed and improve their environment. For a fully immersive experience, visitors can enjoy hiking, canoeing, and even winemaking with the assistance of Akitas by their side! Sponsored by Odate City, these activities are complete with a knowledgeable tour guide. To reserve a tour with one of these loveable pups, visit the website to apply. Odate Address: https://maps.app.goo.gl/qhztCMCbc1wtc1m59 Website: https://www.pref.akita.lg.jp/pages/en Akita Dog Station Address: https://maps.app.goo.gl/pGo2fr83MyaorBsV7 Akita Experience: https://visitakita.com/with-akita/guided-trekking/ Explore the culinary delights of Akita Prefecture with these must-try foods! Chofu, Tokyo Welcome to Chofu, where history meets beauty! This lively city in western Tokyo is home to Jindaiji Temple, one of the oldest temples in Tokyo. Dating back to 733 AD, this ancient temple is full of culture and tradition, with picturesque gardens and ponds. After soaking in the sights, treat yourself to local delicacies like the famous Jindaji soba and traditional crafts at the temple’s shops and restaurants. Not too far from Jindaiji Temple, the Jindai Botanical Gardens is a paradise for nature lovers! With over 100,000 plants from approximately 4,800 species, it is the perfect place to unwind after a long day. Chofu is also home to the GeGeGe no Kitaro, one of the most popular horror manga from the 1960s, and is celebrated with themed shops and cafes. Check out this balanced blend of old-world charm and modern allure! Chofu Address: https://maps.app.goo.gl/X511KiRfqseiLtVu5 Website: https://www.gotokyo.org/en/index.html Jindaiji Temple Website: https://www.jindaiji.or.jp/en/ Jindaiji Temple Address: https://maps.app.goo.gl/dgoSb3F3eZJ2cb7M9 Jindai Botanical Gardens Website: https://www.tokyo-park.or.jp/park/jindai/ Jindai Botanical Gardens Address: 5 Chome-31-10 Jindaiji Motomachi, Chofu, Tokyo 182-0017, Japan Kusatsu, Gunma Prefecture Located in Gunma Prefecture, Kusatsu is known for its picturesque landscapes and natural hot springs, making it the perfect destination for relaxation! The town has some of Japan’s most acidic hot springs, renowned for their therapeutic properties. Yubatake, the main hot spring source, is a mesmerizing sight where steaming hot water flows through wooden channels, creating a captivatingly steamy atmosphere. Visitors can immerse themselves in various traditional onsens scattered throughout the town, such as Kusatsu Onsen, each offering unique mineral compositions and health benefits. A must-see attraction is the daily Yumomi performance, a traditional method of cooling hot spring water by stirring it with large wooden paddles, accompanied by singing and dancing. Beyond hot springs, Kusatsu offers charming streets lined with shops and local restaurants serving regional delicacies like manju (sweet buns) or onsen tamago (hot spring eggs). Kusatsu Address: https://maps.app.goo.gl/tPw5owDgUvNjiGA36 Website: https://www.visit-gunma.jp/en/discover/destinations/kusatsu/ Kusatsu Onsen: https://www.kusatsu-onsen.ne.jp/guide/en/ Here are thebest things to eat in Gunma Prefecture! Kakegawa, Shizuoka Prefecture Learn more about the history of tea in this charming city! Kakegawa, located in Shizuoka Prefecture, has lush tea plantations with experiences for all those fascinated by tea. The rolling hills of this city are adorned with tea fields that produce some of the finest green tea in Japan. Visitors can tour these plantations, participate in tea-picking experiences, and savor freshly brewed tea while learning about its rich history and production process. Kiwi Fruit Country Japan hosts a tea experience where guests can make green tea they freshly picked themselves! For foodies, they offer kiwi cake making and jam making. The city’s historical sites include Kakegawa Castle, offering a glimpse into Japan’s feudal past. With its perfect blend of agriculture and culture, Kakegawa is the best place for those looking to find a refreshing escape! Kakegawa Address: https://maps.app.goo.gl/tbfzMB4PfUrsyqAo8 Website: https://en.kiwicountry.jp/ Kiwi Fruit Country Japan: https://en.kiwicountry.jp/rsv/ Kiwi Fruit Country Japan Address: 2040 Kamiuchida, Kakegawa, Shizuoka 436-0012, Japan Interested in Shizuoka tea? Check out this blog about Shizuoka in our Major Tea Regions Series! Gujō-Hachiman, Gifu Prefecture Interested in Edo-period charm and vibrant cultural traditions? Gujō-Hachiman is the place for you! Dominating the town’s skyline is Gujō-Hachiman Castle, a stunning reconstruction of the original structure that offers a panoramic view of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The castle was originally built in the 16th century and stands as a symbol of the town’s rich history. Gujō-Hachiman is also famous for its pristine waterways, earning the nickname “the water city.” Visitors can enjoy walks along the crystal-clear rivers and explore the town’s many traditional water mills and springs. The town really comes alive during the Gujō Odori festival, one of Japan’s longest dance festivals, where locals and visitors dance through the night in the streets. With its blend of historical landmarks, scenic beauty, and cultural festivities, Gujō-Hachiman is an immersive experience of traditional Japan. Gujō-Hachiman Address: https://maps.app.goo.gl/5TjK4eQ2Wrmav7Yj6 Gujō-Hachiman Castle Address: Japan, 〒501-4214 Gifu, Gujo, Hachimancho Yanagimachi, 一の平６５９ Website: http://www.gujohachiman.com/kanko/index_e.php Find out more about the best dishes to eat in Gifu! Yamanouchi, Nagano Prefecture Animal lovers, this city in Nagano Prefecture is the place for you! Yamanouchi is a delightful town that is home to Jigokudani Yaen-Koen, a monkey park where you can witness the famous snow monkeys relaxing in hot springs all year round. For an immersive cultural experience, staying at a traditional ryokan offers unparalleled relaxation with tatami-matted rooms, futon bedding, and kaiseki meals. The town is known for hosting the 1998 Winter Olympics and, in the winter, is a haven for skiing and snowboarding enthusiasts. Additionally, Yamanouchi offers numerous day onsens and foot baths, perfect for unwinding after a day on the slopes. With its unique blend of wildlife encounters and winter sports, this destination promises unforgettable memories. Address: https://maps.app.goo.gl/5TzfBVJym3hPALFDA Website: https://www.info-yamanouchi.net/english/?hl=en Jigokudani Yaen-Koen: http://en.jigokudani-yaenkoen.co.jp/ Jigokudani Yaen-Koen Address: 6845 Hirao, Yamanochi, Shimotakai District, Nagano 381-0401, Japan Directions to visiting the snow monkeys: https://www.jrailpass.com/blog/jigokudani-monkey-park Five Must-Eat Foods in Nagano! Nachikatsuura, Wakayama Prefecture The highlight of Nachikatsuura, located in Wakayama Prefecture, is Nachi Falls, one of Japan’s tallest and most awe-inspiring waterfalls. The waterfall is part of a sacred Kumano Kodo pilgrimage route, and nearby, the ancient Nachi Taisha Shrine stands as a testament to the area’s culture. Visitors can immerse themselves in the quiet ambiance, exploring the shrine’s beautiful architecture and the surrounding forested mountains. Nachikatsuura is also famous for its hot springs and fresh seafood, especially its tuna, making it the place to be for foodies. Be sure to check out the Katsuura Fish Market if you’re interested in seeing tuna auctions! Another amazing experience is partaking in a traditional boat tour to Kumano Hayatama Taisha, another important shrine with stunning scenery. Address: https://maps.app.goo.gl/6QHxWJGr9Yg7DZTZA Website: https://nachikan.jp/en/ Nachi Falls Address: Nachisan, Nachikatsuura, Higashimuro District, Wakayama 649-5301, Japan Katsuura Fish Market: 7 Chome-12 Tsukiji, Nachikatsuura, Higashimuro District, Wakayama 649-5335, Japan Kumano Hayatama Taisha Address: 1番地 Shingu, Wakayama 647-0081, Japan Must-try dishes in Wakayama! As we conclude our journey through the charming small towns of Honshu, it’s clear that each destination gives something unique! From the therapeutic hot springs of Kusatsu to seeing snow monkeys up close in Yamanouchi, these towns encapsulate the heart of Japan’s heritage and serene landscapes. If you are seeking a new adventure with traditional onsens, historic castles, or local celebrations, Honshu’s small towns promise unforgettable experiences and a deeper connection to Japan’s timeless charm. So pack your bags, set out on a journey, and discover the enchanting treasures that await in Honshu’s hidden gems. Featured Photo Credit: fukez84 Plan to visit Japan in the future? Book a Personal Travel Consulting Call with our experts and let us ensure your trip is unforgettable!

Arigato Travel

05.03.2025

“Sea” For Yourself! Japan’s Best Fishy Dishes For Spring | Arigato Travel

When it comes to culinary feasts, Japan is well versed in the subject, whether it be for their desserts, taiyaki for example, or their world-renowned sushi. But what do those two have in common, you may ask? Well, both culinary dishes are inspired by seafood, the former for its shape and the latter for the course itself. As it might be well known, fish is a regular part of the Japanese diet. We may all be aware of the numerous benefits of consuming fish, but did you know that historically, because of Japan’s location, it had to endure the effects of many changes in its climate? This led to periods of famine, rendering the sea their sole source of nourishment. Nowadays, fish are prepared in a plethora of ways, ranging from sushi to grilled skewers, yet the complexity of their art remains in the fact that depending on the season in which the catch took place, the taste will differ. Indeed, during spring, fish will migrate to shallow areas near the shores, thus allowing the fishermen to catch them easily. During this season, the fish will be slender with a light and elegant taste, compared to its fattiness during the winter. Here are some ideas of feasts you could have in Japan in the spring. Let us begin our journey with the king of fish: Tai Tai, also known as sea bream in English, is a fish that spawns in May, making it very accessible during this season, in sushi shops and at fish stalls. Not only is it very tasty, but the name “Tai’ itself holds an auspicious and important meaning. Indeed, “Tai'' is part of the word “medetai”, which means lucky and prosperous. The beginning of spring, in Japan, also represents the start of the school year as well as the commencement of the employment cycle. Therefore, eating Tai in this season marks a very good debut for the rest of the year. Fun fact: Do you recall when I was talking about taiyaki earlier on? Well, did you know that this very famous and delicious dessert takes its inspiration from the shape of the Tai fish? No? Neither did Tai. But now that we have uncovered the mysteries of the taiyaki’s origins, why not try the authentic fish itself? Fun fact #2: It changes its name to Momijidai in the fall. Now, before we pursue our voyage into the deliciousness of Spring’s banquet, let me make a small halt and welcome you to the world of Japan’s culinary etiquette. Indeed, in the following article, we will see a lot of different dishes that may require some attention as to how to eat them. After all, “when in Rome, do as the Romans do”! Or, for that matter, as the Japanese do. But, have no fear, dear reader, for I shall share with you the secrets of my discoveries. Let us begin our lessons with the fundamentals. You must have heard the words sashimi and sushi a thousand times, but have you ever wondered where the difference lies between them? Sashimi is solely made out of thinly sliced, raw, fresh, fish or meat, that’s it! Yes, yes, you read me right, even meat! Amazing, isn’t it? Now, regarding sushi, did you know that the main ingredient of this fabulous dish is vinegar rice? Indeed, the name itself translates to “sour/vinegar rice”. While traditionally, raw seafood complements it, it is not an absolute must for it to be called sushi. Any ingredient paired with the vinegared rice can be considered sushi. For instance, Inarizushi (vinegared rice encapsulated inside a deep-fried tofu pocket) or the Tamago sushi (rolled omelet on rice) both qualify as sushi. Now, we must underline that sushi is still a broad term. Indeed, within it, there is the Nigirizushi (a piece of raw fish/meat/vegetable, or even fruit on top of the vinegared rice; usually it is the Nigiri that comes to mind when we think of sushi) and other types, like Makis (rolled in seaweed and cut, often having more than one ingredient) or even Temaki sushis (cone-shaped). Now that we have learned the basics, let us get back to our etiquette. Take Nigirizushi, for example, when you picture eating it, you see yourself savoring it while holding it between your chopsticks, right? After all, sushi is known to be quite fancy, so using chopsticks seems like an obvious answer as to how to consume it in a clean manner. Nonetheless, did you know, dear reader, that traditionally, sushi was meant to be eaten by hand? In fact, many locals still prefer this method. In most restaurants, it is customary to give the customer a hot towel to let them wipe their hands before touching the meal. Afterward, you place the food between your thumb and middle finger, holding it delicately but firmly. As for the dipping, sushi, just like sashimi, is usually served with soy sauce. This is the crucial part. You do not soak the whole sushi in the sauce. On the contrary, my friend, you rotate your hand in such a way that only the fish/meat/ingredient on top of the rice elegantly touches the liquid. You never let the rice get drenched in the soy sauce, as it would not only alter the taste and texture of the sushi, but the pressure of the liquid would cause the rice to fall apart. This is also the reason why, when you put it inside your mouth, you should turn the nigiri upside down so that the rice is upward with the topping, touching your tongue. However, be aware that unagi (eel) sushi and other nigiri, which are already topped with dressings, should not be dipped. Do not cut your sushi, rather, try to eat it in one bite. Two bites may be somewhat acceptable, but please, never put the half-bitten part back on your plate. Once it has been picked up, it should be eaten wholly. Use the ginger as a palate cleanser in between each sushi. You may also add some wasabi to your sushi but do not put it directly in the soy sauce. There is also an order in which locals eat sushi: white fish nigiri first, then red ones like tuna, and any sushi that contains eggs is always last. Sashimi has similar rules, but the main difference resides in the fact that you never eat it with your hands. Instead, you always use chopsticks! The same goes with grilled fish and ochazuke, as you will see them appear later on. The way to eat grilled fish is to start with the back of the fish. Use your chopsticks to cut along the spine (from left to right), doing this will facilitate the separation between the meat and the bones. Now, open the flap above the spine and enjoy the meat, afterwards, do the same with the ventral flap. You should start eating from the head and work your way through to the body, always from left to right. The stomach has many bones, so make sure to pick them out with your chopsticks and put them in the left top corner of your plate. To eat the other half, all you need to do is use your pair of Japanese utensils to pick out the backbone (which is also attached to the head). One caution though, is to never flip your fish over, as it is considered bad manners. Therefore, for this part, you can use your left hand to grab hold of the fish’s head and use the chopsticks in your other hand to grasp the big bone. Place the latter on the back side of your plate. All that is left now is for you to enjoy the rest of your meal! As for ochazuke, it usually comes in the form of a tray composed of rice, some toppings, and a kettle of green tea or dashi (Japanese stock). You put the toppings on your rice and then pour the hot liquid on top of it. Ochazuke is eaten with chopsticks, and the remaining is gulped like soup (some restaurants do not offer spoons). Now, last but not least, a small reminder of chopsticks etiquette: Never stick them into your food, especially in a bowl of rice, as it is considered a bad omen, reflecting a funeral rite. Do not cross them (also represent funerals and death). When you are not using them, place them on the chopstick holder, the tip should be facing left. Do not pass food from one set of chopsticks to another pair, as it imitates yet another funerary ritual. If required, pick the dish and place it on the plate of the other person, the latter will then use their own chopsticks to grab the food. When sharing on a communal platter, like sushi for example, use a new pair of chopsticks just for it, or use the broad end of your own. Well, let’s go back to the spring seafood! Tai, what about the Sakuradai? Now that I have introduced you to Tai, let us go deep into one of its species, Madai or Sakuradai, aka the Red Sea Bream, or cherry blossom bream. When you hear Tai, generally speaking, it often refers to Madai, the Red Sea Bream, which is known to not only have a refined appearance but also for its firm texture and tasty flesh. After all, it is not known as the King of the fish for nothing! The Red Sea Bream that migrates to the coast of Seto Island for spawning is called Sakuradai. As the name suggests, it refers to the cherry blossoms, the fish is therefore perceived as bringing spring with its arrival, thus making it a highly valued and cherished fish to consume by the Japanese. You can cook Madai in different ways, either boiled with the skin (Matsukawa-Zukuri), grilled (yakishimozukuri), or skinless. You can even enjoy it with salt and sudachi citrus fruit. Another way to enjoy this delicious fish is to top rice with Tai sashimi and pour dashi (Japanese broth) all over it. This dish is called “Tai-chazuke”, and if you pass by Shinjuku, do not miss the chance to try it in the “Dashi Ochazuke En'' restaurant. Sakura season calls for Sakuramasu Now the following fish also has the name Sakura in it, which only means that just as spring can show you different aspects of it, so can this season’s fish! Sakuramasu, or cherry blossom trout got its name because once the fish matures, its scales turn pink just like the sakura blossoms. Moreover, its peak fishing season coincides with the Hanami season. Those caught in the Northern oceans are said to be particularly luscious in flavor. This is due to the fact that the recently melted snow enriches the ocean, thus enriching the sakuramasu as well. This delicacy is best consumed as sashimi, grilled, or meunière. Now, if you are eager to try Sakuramasu, I can only suggest you try “Nihonryori Ryugin” in Midtown Hibiya. The plus point of this restaurant is that they also propose Sakuradai. So what are you waiting for? Good luck with Usu-mebaru Amongst Mebaru (rockfish), Usu-mebaru, the goldeye rockfish of Aomori, is said to not only bring good fortune but is also highly appreciated for its firm flesh and divine, yet delicate flavor. There are many ways to enjoy Mebaru, here are some ideas. You can try the Mebaru Nitsuke, where the fish is simmered in soy sauce. But If you travel to Nakadori in Aomori, do try the “Nakadomari Mebaru Sashimi Nitsuke Zen” meal set. It is a local specialty that consists of whole fish sashimi, squid sashimi, Nitsuke, and local rice. And for those staying in Tokyo, “Shibusan Uokin”, in Shibuya, offers boiled Mebaru. A must-try! What about Sayori? Sayori may be the name of a character from a famous video game, but did you know that it was also the name of a very popular halfbeak fish in Japan? Not only is it known for its strong yet delicate taste, but its appearance may as well enchant you. Indeed, Sayori’s beautiful, shining outer patterns have a double purpose: to treat our eyes and to camouflage itself from its predators. Sayori can be enjoyed as sashimi, nigiri sushi, or even tempura. Its almost translucent flesh will do wonders for your pallet. Fun fact: While the outside is shiny, the inside of the fish is black, rendering popular the following saying: “Sayori no youni haraguroi”. An equivalence of this sentence would be “black-bellied like the Sayori”, meaning that a person is double-faced, evil, cruel, and manipulative. In other words, black-hearted. Let’s talk about Hotaru Ika We have talked about Sayori’s appearance, but in my opinion, Hotaru Ika, also known as Firefly Squid, takes a step further on the matter of presenting itself. Whenever you are in Japan, please visit Toyama Bay during spring, as you will be welcomed by the most enchanting and ethereal view you could ever imagine. Indeed, alongside the bay, you can witness the sighting of the Hotaru Ika magically glowing and dancing to its own rhythm, while selflessly assuring that your day will be illuminated. Beyond the exquisiteness of their sight, I must add that their splendidness does not stop at their sole appearance. Their taste is quite unique as well, and they are very healthy to eat. The way to prepare it is to boil it beforehand to remove any parasites the squid may have carried. Putting this step aside, Hotaru Ika is often enjoyed as sushi or served with a sumiso sauce (vinegar and Miso) or with Wakake seaweed and a dipping sauce made of miso, vinegar, and mustard. If you want to try Sayori and Hotaru Ika and are in Tokyo, I recommend “Sushi Namba Hibiya”, as both dishes are provided there. The plus point is that it is next to “Nihonryori Ryugin

Arigato Travel

04.03.2025

INSIDE CHABARA: AKIHABARA’S STYLISH FOOD DESTINATION | Arigato Travel

For food lovers, CHABARA AKI-OKA MARCHE in Akihabara is a worthwhile stop on any culinary tour of Tokyo. Nestled underneath the elevated train tracks between Akihabara and Okachimachi stations, this unique food destination built on the site of the former Kanda Fruit and Vegetable Market has been reborn as a stylish “food theme park.” Chabara, a portmanteau of Yatchaba (“fruit and vegetable market”) and Akihabara offers more than 6000 artisanal products highlighting Japanese food, culture, and tradition. This bustling market is the perfect destination to take in the sights, sounds, and tastes of Japan. Whether for a quick lunch stop or a leisurely shopping trip just strolling the aisles, Chabara has something for everyone. Your culinary tour begins at the market’s entrance. You’ll hear the noise of the trains rumbling overhead as you enter. It is a bit cramped, but like Japan itself, no space is wasted. The aisles are neatly arranged by Japan’s prefectures and regions and feature local delicacies. To the left, you can sample umeboshi, or salty pickled plums, from the Kansai region. These extremely salty and sour fruits are definitely an acquired taste. See if you can eat one without puckering! Then you can walk past the fragrant spices, green teas, and matcha of the Kanto region or head to Kyushu, known for Hakata tonkotsu ramen. This signature dish is made from noodles served in a pork-flavored broth flavored with mushrooms, green onion, and pickled ginger. If that doesn’t tempt you, you might sample some otsumami (finger foods) such as pickles and fried vegetables, that are usually served with alcohol. You can wash down the otsumami with some gin or vodka craft cocktails from the Tottori region. Or if you’re in the mood for a full meal, Chabara has a “shojin ryori” restaurant that features vegetarian cuisine inspired by the food served at Buddhist temples in Kamakura. No meat or fish is served. Instead, the menu focuses on small colorful dishes with seasonal vegetables and subtle flavors. All meals come with miso soup and rice and can be accompanied by sake, beer, matcha, or amazake, a sweet drink made with fermented rice. Before leaving, you can’t miss the enormous wooden barrel laid on its side. You’ll be encouraged to climb inside it (after removing your shoes) and take pictures. This barrel is part of the “Kioke Craftsman Revival Project.” Until the late Edo Period, fermented Japanese seasonings such as soy sauce, miso, mirin, and vinegar were all brewed in wooden barrels (also called “kioke”). Ever since then, the trade has died out with only a few traditional craftsmen still choosing to use them. The wooden barrels promote the growth of microorganisms such as lactic acid bacteria and yeast, which brings a unique flavor to the fermented products. The problem, however, is that the wooden barrels being used today were all built before World War II and will be unusable in 50 years. The Kioke Craftsman Revival Project aims to stop the extinction of traditional barrel-aging culture. Part grocery store, part farmer’s market, part food court, Chabara offers a unique gastronomic shopping adventure in the heart of Japan’s capital. You can enjoy the culinary wonders of Japan without ever leaving Tokyo. The signs are all in Japanese writing, so it might be helpful to brush up on kanji characters or, better yet, go with a guide to fully appreciate the experience. Chabara Aki-Oka Marche is not just a feast for the taste buds but also a cultural and sensory experience. As you navigate the market, take time to engage with the vendors. Many of them are passionate artisans who are more than willing to share stories about their products, from the painstaking process of crafting traditional foods to the history and significance of regional specialties. This interaction can deepen your appreciation for the rich culinary heritage of Japan. Address: 8-2 Kanda Neribeicho, Chiyoda City, Tokyo 101-0022 Google Maps: https://g.co/kgs/R2MZ6q6 Website: https://www.jrtk.jp/chabara/ Hours: Open 11 am to 8 pm 7 days a week Featured Photo Credit: Graydon Lavallee Around the Tokyo area this Spring?, come join either our Daytime or Evening cherry blossom tours guided by a local!

Arigato Travel

02.03.2025

From the Chef’s Table: A Beginner’s Guide to Omakase | Arigato Travel

Omakase is more than just a meal - it’s a culinary adventure where you place your trust in the hands of a skilled chef, allowing them to create a personalized dining experience just for you. The word “omakase” means “I leave it up to you,” and it embodies the spirit of exploration and discovery. You may hear “kaiseki” which is a meal consisting of dishes served in a specific order based solely on seasonal produce. When you sit down for an omakase meal, you aren’t just eating, but you’re part of an experience with carefully selected ingredients, masterful techniques, and the chef’s artistic vision. Each course is a surprise and is meticulously crafted to showcase the freshest seasonal ingredients and the chef’s expertise. Omakase is based on the reactions of the customer, taking their likes and dislikes into account. For beginners, omakase is the perfect way to dive into Japanese cuisine, as it offers a unique opportunity to experience a variety of flavors and textures you might not have ordered on your own. It’s a dining experience that is intimate and exciting. In this article, we will cover all the tips and tricks for those looking to try this omakase experience in Japan! What To Expect When you opt for an omakase experience, you can count on the chef to take the lead and make a personalized meal just for you. Expect an intimate atmosphere where the chef is your guide, and will curate your meal in courses. Each dish is a reflection of the season’s best ingredients, prepared and presented with artistic flair! Here is a typical step-by-step of an omakase experience: Personalized Menu: The chef will create a unique menu for you, based on the fresh ingredients available for the day. There is no set menu with omakase, and the chef may change your next dish based on your reaction to the course! Seasonal Ingredients & Local Delicacies: Dishes are crafted with the best ingredients of the season, which ensure peak flavors and freshness. Omakase has evolved to include a wide range of Japanese foods like nigiri, sashimi, tempura, and dashi. Interaction with the Chef: You’ll have the chance to engage with the chef, learning about each dish as it’s prepared and served. Omakase experiences are hosted directly in front of the chef, so you will get a chance to see everything up close. Artistic Presentation: Every course is presented with an eye for detail, making the meal as visually stunning as it is delicious. Chefs have the chance to be innovative with their selection of dishes and how it is presented. This creative freedom allows for some amazing courses that you may not find elsewhere! Wide Range Of Flavors: Expect a variety of dishes that showcase different textures, flavors, and culinary techniques. This could be anything from delicate sashimi to rich, savory bites. Create Your Plan Planning your omakase experience is key to ensuring you get the most out of this dining adventure! Omakase restaurants can range from high-end, Michelin-starred restaurants to more affordable, yet equally impressive, hidden gems. Consider your budget, location, and the type of experience you’re looking for when planning your visit. Set A Budget: Omakase can vary widely in price, so decide how much you’re willing to spend and seek out restaurants within that range. Since there is a set amount of courses, there will typically be a price for the type/number of courses you would like to receive. Choosing The Setting: Whether you’re looking for an intimate, upscale environment or a more casual vibe, pick a setting that will fit your preferences. Depending on the amount of people joining your dining experience, you may need to look for a bigger or smaller omakase restaurant. Plan Ahead: Oftentimes, you will need a reservation a few months in advance to secure a spot at very popular Omakase spots. Not to worry - there are amazing restaurants that can be booked just a few days in advance! *Additionally, be sure to check if the restaurant can accommodate young children or any allergies/food restrictions you may have. Research Researching where you go for omakase is crucial, as the experience can differ significantly from one restaurant to another. Use a mix of resources to find the best spots to align with your budget and expectations. It may be best to visit the restaurant’s website rather than a third-party website when making a reservation in case any changes need to be made. Michelin Guide: Check the Michelin Guide for top-rated omakase restaurants. These may be quite pricey compared to other options and depending on the popularity, need to be reserved months in advance. Reddit/Social Media: Dive into travel and food communities for recommendations, reviews, and insider tips from fellow foodies. Explore Different Price Points: Look at both high-end and more affordable options to find a restaurant that offers the experience you’re after within your budget. Read Reviews: Research customer reviews to get a sense of the dining experience, quality of service, and atmosphere at each location. Etiquette When it comes to omakase, a little bit of etiquette goes a long way in ensuring a smooth and enjoyable experience for everyone. Many omakase restaurants are intimate and high-end, so it’s best to dress smartly - business casual or elegant attire is typically appropriate. Also, as a general cultural rule, try to avoid wearing any perfume, lotion, or products with strong scents due to the intimacy of the dining experience. Oftentimes, the overpowering scents can disrupt the ambiance and subtle aroma of the dishes. While enjoying your meal, be mindful of your behavior to respect the chef and fellow diners. Talking should be kept to a minimum, especially during the serving and savoring of each course, allowing everyone to appreciate the flavors. Flash photography is generally discouraged, as it could be disruptive. If you do wish to take photos, do so discreetly and without flash. Here are some of my favorite Omakase restaurants to visit: Tokyo Sushi Umi - https://www.tableall.com/restaurant/77 Udatsu Sushi - https://www.udatsu-sushi.jp/en Ginza Saisho - https://saisho.net/menu Osaka Sushidokoro Amano - https://www.tableall.com/restaurant/179 Jinen - https://jinen.org/content1/unagidani/ Sushi Hasegawa - https://www.sushi-hasegawa.com/ Kyoto Sushi Gion Matsudaya - https://gion-matsudaya.com/en/ Fujiwara - https://tabelog.com/kyoto/A2601/A260301/26032207/ Muromachi Wakuden - https://www.wakuden.jp/ Sapporo Sushisai Wakichi - https://www.tableall.com/restaurant/103 Sushi Musou - https://sushimusou.com/en/index.html Sushi Watanabe - https://www.sushi-watanabe011.com/ Fukuoka Kiku Zushi - http://kikuzushi.org/ Yoshitomizushi - https://yoshitomi-sushi.com/ Sushi Gyoten - https://gyoten.jp/en/ Embracing the omakase experience is a journey into the heart of Japanese culinary tradition. From the careful planning and research to understanding the nuances of etiquette, every step adds to this unique dining adventure. Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or a curious beginner, omakase offers an unforgettable opportunity to explore new flavors, engage with skilled chefs, and an experience to immerse yourself in a truly personalized meal. By respecting the customs and savoring each moment, you’ll not only enjoy an amazing meal but also gain a deeper appreciation for the artistry and culture that make Omakase so special. The next time you’re looking for something extraordinary in Japan, trust the chef and let Omakase guide you through a culinary experience like no other. Featured Photo Credit: Ginza Saisho Love Japanese cuisine? In addition to booking an Omakase restaurant, why not explore more flavors of Japan with one of our locally guided food tours?

Arigato Travel

01.03.2025

Hiroshima Warmed Sake Festival 2025 – A Must-Visit Event for Sake Lovers! | Arigato Travel

Mark your calendars for March 20, 2025, as Hiroshima hosts the 6th annual Hiroshima Warmed Sake Festival at the historic Hiroshima Castle's Honmaru lower grounds. This delicious event, held each year, celebrates the rich tradition of Hiroshima's sake brewing and offers an incredible opportunity to enjoy a variety of warm, locally brewed sakes in a festive atmosphere. What Makes Hiroshima’s Sake Special? Hiroshima is one of Japan’s top three sake-producing regions, alongside Nada (Hyogo) and Fushimi (Kyoto). What sets Hiroshima sake apart is its soft water, which results in a smoother, more delicate flavor compared to sakes made with hard water. Unlike the crisp and dry profiles often found in other regions, Hiroshima’s soft water allows for a rich, slightly sweet, and well-balanced sake. Sake brewing in Hiroshima has a history spanning over 300 years, but it was in the late 19th century that the region’s brewers pioneered ginjo-style sake, which is known for its fruity aroma and refined taste. The development of advanced brewing techniques in Hiroshima led to the production of some of Japan’s most award-winning and sought-after sakes. Today, the region remains a leader in high-quality sake, and this festival is the perfect chance to experience it firsthand. What to Expect at the Festival From 11:30 AM to 4:00 PM, visitors can taste a diverse selection of warmed sakes from 24 local breweries, including well-known names like Kamotsuru Sake Brewery and Kamoizumi Sake Brewery. Each sake tasting cup, approximately 60ml, is priced between ¥400 and ¥500. To complement the sake experience, a variety of food stalls will be on-site, offering delicious pairings that enhance the flavors of the warm sake. Whether you are a seasoned sake enthusiast or a curious beginner, this festival provides the perfect environment to explore and appreciate the depth of Hiroshima’s sake culture. How to Join Advance tickets are available for ¥2,000, which include six drink tickets and entry into a special raffle draw at 3:00 PM. Tickets can be purchased online or at select local vendors. Individual drink tickets will also be available on-site for those who decide to join last minute. The festival is welcoming to international guests, with English-speaking staff available to assist visitors. For more details, visit the official festival website. There's also an English page to make it easier for non-Japanese speakers to enjoy the event. Make the Most of Your Hiroshima Sake Experience If you are visiting Hiroshima and want to dive deeper into its sake culture, consider joining Arigato Travel’s Saijo Sake Tour. This experience takes you through Saijo, Hiroshima’s famous sake district, where you can visit historic breweries, learn from expert brewers, and taste even more incredible sakes. So, if you’re in town, don’t miss this fantastic opportunity to experience some of the best sake in Japan! Be sure to join one of our expert guides on the Saijo Sake Town Tour!

Arigato Travel

28.02.2025

Things to do in Osaka in March 2025 | Arigato Travel

While February saw a glimpse of the plum blossoms beginning to bloom in Osaka, late March is forecasted to see the start of Japan’s stunning cherry blossoms, painting the city and the parks pink. You may notice the weather is starting to be less chilly, but you will find that there are still days you’ll want your winter coat. With Osaka finally welcoming Spring, let's explore some activities and things to see to enjoy a Japanese spring to the fullest. Osaka Castle Spring Festival If you still need your cherry blossom fix, Osaka Castle, while having many plum blossoms and cherry blossom trees, conveniently holds a spring festival where you can catch these flowers in bloom. From late February until mid-April, what is regarded as one of the most popular Sakura-themed events happens right at Osaka’s very popular landmarks. With about 300 cherry blossom trees, food trucks around the park, and even an opportunity to take a boat cruise, this festival is one you won’t want to miss if you’re searching for the perfect spring activity in Japan. If you attend, you’ll find other activities such as the Illumination at Nishinomaru Garden, the Osaka Castle Forest Barbeque, and an event called the Special Opening of the Turrets (the small towers on the building) of Osaka Castle. Dates: Late Feb - Mid Apr Website: https://www.osakacastlepark.jp/springfes/en/ Address: 1-1 Osakajo, Chuo Ward, Osaka, 540-0002, Japan Price: Entry is free, however certain events may have admission fees. Grand Sumo Tournament Sumo holds great cultural importance in Japan, and in the springtime in Osaka, those traveling to the city will have the opportunity to witness the energetic event that is sumo wrestling. This event is a part of the honbasho, known as six annual tournaments, the March Grand Tournament making the second of the series. Many matches will occur throughout the day, so you can come and go from the arena to watch whenever you like. You can begin searching for tickets starting from February 8th as tickets will start selling online at that time. Dates: March 9th - March 23rd Website: http://www.sumo.or.jp/En/ Address: 3 Chome-4-36 Nanbanaka, Naniwa Ward, Osaka, 556-0011, Japan Price: Arena (3,500 yen), Tatami seating (44,202 yen), Class A seating (16,500 yen) Osaka Strawberry Festival What would the start of spring be without strawberries? If interested, you can participate in the 10-day festival that showcases all different ways to enjoy strawberries in Japan, a very popular fruit that has seemed to trend over the years here. Some of the treats you’ll find at this event consist of, but are not limited to: strawberry daifuku, churros, parfaits, and even dessert pizzas topped with this sweet fruit. The festival also has merchandise such as strawberry keychains and events you can enjoy while you’re there! Dates: March 14th - 23rd Website: https://www.ktv.jp/event/ichigo/ Address: 2-chōme-1-7 Ōgimachi, Kita Ward, Osaka, 530-0025, Japan Price: 450 yen (paid in advance) 600 yen (price at the door) Osaka Ekiden 2025 The EXPO Ekiden is a Japanese original sporting event which consists of a long relay race, competed in teams. Quite different from other events available in Osaka, the Ekiden makes for an exciting event to watch competitors at a very close distance from the road, and anticipate who will win the long race. What makes this event attract so many viewers is the fact that the expo permits college teams to compete as well amongst professional teams– bringing out the competitiveness in everyone racing. Even better, the race starts at the Expo ‘70 Commemorative Park which was mentioned earlier in this article as a popular sakura spot, even though sakura tend to bloom in late March, this destination still counts as a great spot to enjoy both a high-energy race and the beginning of the budding sakura flowers. Dates: March 16th Website: https://www.expo-ekiden.com/ Address: Senribanpakukoen, Suita, Osaka 565-0826, Japan Price: Free Punkspring Osaka Those who are into punk music may be familiar with the popular event Punkspring. While in previous years it has been held in Tokyo, this year this huge music event will be held in Osaka along with Tokyo, perfect for 70s-2000s music lovers who are traveling. If you’re into the punk and emo music scene, this exciting and electrifying music festival is the one for you, hosting many popular bands and groups from mostly America and the UK. Dates: March 29th Website: https://www.punkspring.com/english Address: 1 Chome-5-102 Nankokita, Suminoe Ward, Osaka, 559-0034, Japan Price: 10,000 - 15,000 yen Hanami If you travel to Osaka in early March, you may be disappointed to find that the cherry blossoms are not blooming yet. This is why it is recommended to follow forecasts for these blooming dates, as it is said to begin in late March and plan accordingly. Thus, a very popular celebration in Japan is called hanami, or cherry blossom viewing. This is when companies, friends, family, or couples go out to parks with cherry blossoms and usually enjoy a picnic or some time in the sun and nice weather. If you plan to be in Osaka during this time, you’ll be able to experience a beautiful and fun part of Japanese culture from a grand selection of spots. Even if having a picnic isn’t your cup of tea, these sites still make perfect spots for a simple stroll through the falling pink petals. Now, let’s take a look at some beautiful locations to experience hanami. Kema Sakuranomiya Park Kema Sakuranomiya’s Park takes the cake with its stretching paths all lined up with cherry blossom trees following the Okawa River. This spot is recommended for those who are looking for quite a stroll, as the path goes for 4 kilometers in total and takes about 40 minutes to complete. With the sounds of the water right by your side, and the distant Osaka buildings in the distance, this location is recommended to those who want a peaceful getaway, lost in the tunnel of cherry blossoms. Another great feature of this park is that you can enjoy the cherry blossom viewing cruise along the Okawa River from March 26th until April 10th. (Reservations required.) Dates: Late March - Early April Times: Open 24 Hours Website: https://www.osakapark.osgf.or.jp/kema_sakuranomiya/ Address: Nakanocho, Miyakojima Ward, Osaka, 534-0027, Japan Price: Free Settsu Gorge Park If you’re looking for a typical picnic spot under pink petals the Settsu Gorge Park has a good amount of flat land perfect for you and some friends or family to lay out some tarp and enjoy a meal in the spring weather. There are various recommended spots in this park, along with different types of cherry blossoms. There are weeping cherry blossoms at the entrance of the park, and even a square with almost 300 pink sakura trees. If you’re feeling hungry during your Osaka trip, take a stop at the locally named “Cherry Blossom Park” and enjoy some seasonal spring foods and drinks or a picnic of your choice. Time: Open 24 Hours Website: https://www.city.takatsuki.osaka.jp/soshiki/54/5519.html Address: Japan, 〒569-1036 Osaka, Takatsuki, 大字原地内ほか Price: Free Expo '70 Sakura Expo Osaka’s Sakura Expo is regarded as one of Japan’s top 100 cherry blossom locations, where you will find an overwhelming 5,500 sakura trees, and be able to participate in many sakura-themed events. Some of these events include a sakura food court where you can experience various Japanese food items, a chance to sit under the sakura trees and watch street performances, witness a tea ceremony, night illuminations of the cherry blossoms, a craft festival, and much more. This hanami spot is highly recommended to everyone, but especially those looking for all things sakura. Dates: Mid-March - Early April Time: 9:30 AM - 5:00 PM Website: https://japancheapo.com/events/expo-70-sakura-expo/ Address: Senribanpakukoen, Suita, Osaka 565-0826, Japan Price: Free Enjoy Osaka to the Fullest This Spring Season Osaka is starting to warm up day by day, more tourists are starting to come, and various spring events are popping up all over the city. From music, sweet treats, Japanese hanami culture and more, this blog will help you prepare for what to expect to find in Osaka this March. While you’re looking for ways to spend your time in the city, why not also check out the Daytime Hanami Tour with Arigato Travel? What better time to visit during a time when the lively city welcomes spring with its beautiful cherry blossoms, festivals, and traditions? Featured Photo Credit: Sean Pavone Want to have more fun on your trip to Osaka? Join our Hanami Tour and discover the city as a local!

Arigato Travel

26.02.2025

Things to Do in Tokyo in March 2025 | Arigato Travel

March is a beautiful time to explore Tokyo, as the city transitions from the chilly winter to the gentle warmth of spring. With flowers beginning to bloom, Tokyo’s parks and streets come alive with vibrant natural beauty. Tokyo offers many great opportunities for you to experience its cultural traditions, beautiful scenery, delicious foods, and exciting events. Here’s your ultimate guide to experiencing the best of Tokyo this season! Hanami: Cherry Blossom Viewing Hanami, which directly translates to “flower viewing,” is a Japanese tradition of enjoying the beauty of flowers. This spring tradition is all about celebrating nature’s beauty, hope, and new life. Since cherry blossoms bloom and fall quickly, this tradition is a reminder to appreciate the fleeting nature of life. Cherry blossom season is from around late March to mid April while plum blossom season is from around late January to March. People love to gather and picnic by the riverside, parks, or gardens where the trees are in full bloom. Some foods people commonly eat during hanami include bento boxes, hanami dango, and sakura mochi. People also love dressing up in kimonos, yukatas, or clothes decorated with spring flowers and bright colors. Here are three parks to check out if you want to see gorgeous cherry blossoms: Shinjuku Gyoen Admission: ¥500 Location: Shinjuku Gyoen Cherry Tree Area 6 Chome-1 Sendagaya, Shibuya, Tokyo 151-0051, Japan Time: 9:00 AM - 5:30 PM Website: https://www.env.go.jp/garden/shinjukugyoen/english/index.html Ueno Park Admission: Free Location: Ueno Park Uenokoen, Taito City, Tokyo 110-0007, Japan Time: 5:00am - 11:00pm Website: https://honyaku.j-server.com/LUCKENSETS Chidorigafuchi Green Way Location: Chidorigafuchi Green Way 九段南二丁目から, 先 Sanbancho, Tokyo 102-0074, Japan Time: Open 24 hours Website: https://visit-chiyoda.tokyo/en/sakura/spot/ Japanese Doll Festival (Hinamatsuri) Hinamatsuri, also known as Doll’s Day or Girl’s Day, is a traditional Japanese festival celebrating the happiness, health, and prosperity of young girls and women. Intricately crafted dolls, called hina ningyo, are displayed on a multi-tier platform covered with red cloth. These displays are significant because they symbolize good fortune and bring protection to girls. Hinamatsuri is typically celebrated at home with family; however, the Hyakudan Kaidan is putting their own dozen of Hina dolls on display. Admission: ¥1,600 Date: January 20 - March 10, 2025 Location: Hotel Gajoen Tokyo 1 Chome-8-1 Shimomeguro, Meguro City, Tokyo 153-0064, Japan Time: 11:00am - 6:00pm Website: https://www.e-tix.jp/100event/en/hina.html Shinagawa Yakiimo Terrace Shinagawa Season Terrace is hosting their annual sweet potato event. Yakiimo, “roasted sweet potato,” is a popular street food commonly eaten in the winter. There will be a variety of sweet potato specialty dishes, so if you are a sweet potato fan, then this event is for you! Admission: Free Date: February 27 - March 2, 2025 Location: Shinagawa Season Terrace 1 Chome-2-70 Konan, Minato City, Tokyo 108-0075, Japan Time: 11:00am - 5:00pm Website: http://sst-am.com/ Mt. Takao Fire-Walking Festival (Hiwatari-sai) Hiwatari-sai, also known as the Fire Walking Festival, is a religious ceremony held annually on the second Sunday of March. Buddhist monks, known as Yamabushi, walk barefoot over burning goma-gi, “prayer sticks.” It is believed that walking on fire will purify the body and soul, remove evil spirits, and bring safety and longevity. At the end of the ritual, after the flames are put out, you can experience safely walking it yourself. Admission: Free Date: March 9, 2025 Location: Takaosan Yakuōin Yukiji Temple 2177 Takaomachi, Hachioji, Tokyo 193-8686, Japan Time: 1:00pm - 5:00pm Website: https://www.takaosan.or.jp/english/events.html Art Fair Tokyo Art Fair Tokyo is the largest art fair in Japan and the oldest in Asia. The fair showcases a wide variety of art, including antiques, crafts, and paintings. It’s the perfect place for those who want to admire art, find inspiration, or connect with other artists. Admission: Varying between ¥3,500 - ¥5,000 Date: March 7 - 9, 2025 Location: アートフェア東京/Art Fair Tokyo 3 Chome-5-1 Marunouchi, Chiyoda City, Tokyo 100-0005, Japan Time: Friday/Saturday: 11:00am - 7:00pm Sunday: 11:00am - 5:00pm Website: https://artfairtokyo.com/ Oedo Antique Market Oedo Antique Market is the largest outdoor antique market in Japan. With around 250 vendors, the market offers a wide selection of goods to explore. It’s the perfect place to browse for unique trinkets and souvenirs. Admission: Free Date: March 16 and 30, 2025 Location: Oedo Antique Market 3 Chome-5 Marunouchi, Chiyoda City, Tokyo 100-0005, Japan Time: 9:00am - 4:00pm Website: https://www.antique-market.jp/english/ Golden Dragon Dance (Kinryu-no Mai) Honzon Jigen-e is an annual religious ceremony at Sensoji Temple that celebrates prosperity and good fortune. It was believed that in the year 628, two fisherman brothers discovered a Buddhist statue of Kannon in the Sumida River. This statue later became the foundation for the establishment of Sensoji Temple. Kinryu-no Mai, a dance featuring an 18-meter-long golden dragon, commemorates the appearance of the Bodhisattva Kannon and the construction of Sensoji’s main hall, Kannondo. Admission: Free Date: March 18, 2025 Location: Sensō-ji 2 Chome-3-1 Asakusa, Taito City, Tokyo 111-0032, Japan Time: 11:30am, 2:00pm, and 3:00pm Website: https://www.senso-ji.jp/english/ Ueno Zoo Ueno Zoo, located in Tokyo’s oldest public park, is also the oldest zoo in Japan. Every March 20th, the zoo offers a free admission day to celebrate their anniversary. Home to around 300 animals, Ueno Zoo also has a five-storied pagoda and traditional tea ceremony house, adding a cultural touch to your visit. Admission: Free Date: March 20, 2025 Location: Ueno Zoological Gardens 9-83 Uenokoen, Taito City, Tokyo 110-8711, Japan Time: 9:30am - 5:00pm Website: https://www.tokyo-zoo.net/english/ueno/index.html Anime Japan Anime Japan is the largest anime convention in Japan. This event features exciting exhibitions, merchandise for sale, and even an award ceremony for “Manga We Want to See Animated.” Although not mandatory, many attendees love to cosplay as their favorite anime characters. If you love anime, you won’t want to miss this event! Admission: ¥2,500 Date: March 22 - 23, 2025 Location: Tokyo Big Sight 3 Chome-11-1 Ariake, Koto City, Tokyo 135-0063, Japan Time: 9:00am - 5:00pm Website: https://www.anime-japan.jp/en/ Family Anime Festa Family Anime Festa is a part of Anime Japan’s exhibition. This section is exclusive only to children and their families. The event features a variety of family-friendly exhibitions, interactive workshops, and character meet-and-greet opportunities. Admission: Free (limited to elementary school students and under, and their guardians) Date: March 22 - 23, 2025 Location: Tokyo Big Sight 3 Chome-11-1 Ariake, Koto City, Tokyo 135-0063, Japan Time: 9:30 am - 5:00pm Website: https://www.family-animefesta.jp/en/ Tokyo in March is a beautiful city in bloom. From taking a mesmerizing stroll under the cherry blossoms, indulging in seasonal treats, or immersing yourself in local festivals, the opportunities for new experiences are endless. There is no end to the fun and discoveries waiting for you this month in Japan’s beloved capital. We hope this guide inspires you to fully embrace all that Tokyo has to offer this March! Feature photo credit: Rick Neves On a trip to Tokyo? Join our Daytime and Evening Hanami tours this spring to truly enjoy the sakura this season!

Arigato Travel

25.02.2025

Experiential Travel Along the Coast Niigata and Yamagata | Arigato Travel

Arigato Travel is proud to announce a new series of multi-day tours that highlight local crafts and immersive experiences exclusive to Niigata and Yamagata prefectures. All tours begin in Tsubame-Sanjo, Niigata, and conclude in Sakata City, Yamagata. These tours are designed alongside local guides for travelers looking for intellectually enriching, authentic cultural encounters, especially appealing to tourists from Western countries. The experiences cater to diverse interests, including martial arts, sake, hot springs, ceramics, weaving, gastronomy, and more. Yamagata and Niigata are easily accessible by train directly from Tokyo. Northeastern Japan offers an ideal off-the-beaten-path destination for those in search of less crowded locations. Why Visit Niigata and Yamagata Prefectures? Niigata Prefecture is renowned for its sake, rice, and snow, while Yamagata Prefecture is famous for the yamabushi of Dewa Sanzan and the snow monsters and ski slopes of Mt. Zao. However, these are just a glimpse of what these regions offer. With their new fully-guided tours connecting these prefectures, we aim to highlight the lesser-known cities of Tsubame and Sanjo in Niigata, along with Tsuruoka and Sakata in Yamagata. Situated along the northwestern coast of Honshu, these cities share a rich history of trade and cultural exchange, blending connected yet distinct traditions. Visiting both regions offers a deeper understanding of their culture, history, and people, with each tour providing its own unique and engaging story. Immersive Journeys into Craft, Cuisine, and Culture Designed primarily for travelers in search of authentic and intellectually enriching cultural experiences, especially from Western countries, these tours offer an in-depth exploration of local traditions. While the tours are fully planned, they also allow for a mix-and-match approach, letting guests create personalized itineraries. Niigata and Yamagata are home to some of Japan’s most skilled artisans, with Tsubame-Sanjo particularly recognized as a hub for craftsmanship. The proximity to the Sea of Japan and the fertile lands of the Shonai Plain have fostered rich culinary traditions, while the Dewa Sanzan mountains have long drawn spiritual pilgrims. With Tsubame-Sanjo just under two hours from Tokyo Station by bullet train, these tours are a perfect and convenient addition to any Tokyo-based itinerary. Overview of the Tours Exploring Japanese Cuisine: Time-Kept Traditions and Innovation Embark on a five-day, four-night journey that delves deep into the essence of Japanese gastronomy, craftsmanship, and immersive experiences. Master the art of knife sharpening with expert blacksmiths, harvest fresh produce with local farmers, and create your own unique dashi (fish stock) blend. Try your hand at catching and preparing fish under the guidance of a seasoned fisherman. Discover the craftsmanship behind sake brewing, explore traditional pickling techniques, and experience the elegance of a maiko geisha teahouse. Enjoy exquisite meals and the warmth of Japanese-style hot spring inns. The Artisans of Uetsu: A Journey Through Silk, Steel, and Craft Experience a four-day, three-night adventure focused on the rich craftsmanship of the Uetsu region. Witness master metalworkers in action, observe the making of kitchen knives and hammered copperware, and craft your own paper knife. Delve into the world of samurai silk traditions. Explore sake breweries and vineyards, shop for exceptional handmade goods, and sew your own decorative ornaments. Savor exquisite cuisine and unwind in the warm hospitality of Japanese-style hot spring inns. Soul of Uetsu: Nature, Spirituality, and Culinary Traditions Immerse yourself in the culture, cuisine, and spiritual heritage of the Uetsu region on a four-day, three-night journey, blending exploration with walking and cycling tours. Savor se-abura (back fat) and Sakata ramen, sample fresh seasonal seafood at a bustling fish market, and wander through sacred sites. Hike up Mt. Haguro alongside a Yamabushi priest, experience the meditative flavors of shojin ryori (mountain cuisine), and reflect in quiet contemplation with a temple abbot. Ride an e-bike through the charming streets of Sakata. Enjoy exceptional meals and the warm hospitality of Japanese-style hot spring inns. For full itineraries please contact the Arigato Travel Team. Introducing the Cities and Regions Tsubame-Sanjo, Niigata A prominent industrial hub consisting of the cities of Tsubame and Sanjo Home to approximately 180,000 residents Features over 5,000 small and medium-sized metalworking and manufacturing businesses Tsubame is renowned for copperware, fine engraving, and cutlery Sanjo is famous for kitchen knives, blades, and precision tools Conveniently accessible from Tokyo in under two hours via bullet train Tsuruoka, Yamagata A coastal agricultural city in Yamagata Prefecture Official population of around 100,000, with about 34,000 living in central Tsuruoka Japan’s first UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy Home to the sacred Dewa Sanzan (Three Holy Mountains of Dewa) Reachable from Tokyo in under four hours via bullet and local trains or by domestic flight Sakata, Yamagata Yamagata’s key port city and a historic center of kitamaebune coastal trade during the Edo period (1603–1868) Population of approximately 97,000 residents A leading producer of premium rice and sake One of Japan’s top safflower-producing regions Holds the highest ramen consumption rate in the country Accessible from Tokyo via Niigata in under four hours by bullet and express trains or by domestic flight Uetsu, Niigata/Yamagata

Arigato Travel

25.02.2025

Get To Know Our Travel Guides Series: We Love Cherry Blossoms | Arigato Travel

Every spring, the arrival of cherry blossom season brings a sense of excitement and beauty that is exciting for locals and visitors. Hanami, the traditional Japanese custom of enjoying flowers, especially cherry blossoms, is at the heart of this experience. To celebrate this time, we asked a few of our experienced guides - who lead our popular cherry blossom tours - about what makes this season so special to them. From sharing their favorite moments with travelers to memories on why cherry blossoms hold a unique place in their hearts, each guide offers a glimpse into their world during this unforgettable time of year. We’re excited to share the amazing tours we’ve had, filled with appreciation for sakura blossoms, as we commemorate this beloved season. Michie Hi, I'm Michie Kubota, a Tokyoite living in Sendagaya, Shibuya, near Shinjukugyoen Park and Yoyogi Park, which are popular spots for Cherry blossom viewing in Tokyo. I have been a guide with Arigato Travel for nearly 6 years. With the cherry blossom season being so short and unpredictable, planning is key for a successful viewing! How do you prepare for the tours each year and create an engaging experience for all ages? I always look forward to the full bloom of Sakura, as it's truly beautiful, but I find joy in every phase of the blossoms. The budding Sakura represents new energy and growth, and I draw strength from the new leaves. The falling petal phase is romantic and reminds me that everything has an end, evoking a sense of sentimentality. Japanese culture has a deep appreciation for things that are fragile and impermanent, teaching us to appreciate the present moment, much like the philosophy of Zen. I often share this perspective with my guests during tours. When I host a tour, I always pray for a sunny day so that we can enjoy a picnic outside, which I believe is the best way to view the Sakura. Sometimes, during the actual viewing, I like to play games with my guests to make the experience even more enjoyable! How do you celebrate the cherry blossom season when you’re not guiding tours? I enjoy indulging in Sakura-themed treats such as Sakura mochi, Sakura latte, Sakura cookies, Sakura parfait, and Sakura beer, to name a few. There are numerous Sakura-related food options available in Japan! What do you hope visitors take away from experiencing cherry blossom tours with you? I want to give my guests a once-in-a-lifetime experience! I want them to have a lot of fun, and if possible, I would like them to understand a little bit of Zen philosophy associated with the tradition of hanami, which encourages people to focus on the present moment. Anything else you would like to share with our readers? I hope you get the chance to see Sakura here in Japan. Before finalizing your travel dates, consider asking local experts (Arigato Travel specialists) about the best time to see the Sakura. If Sakura hasn't bloomed in Tokyo when you arrive, consider traveling south to see them, and if the Sakura season has ended in Tokyo, consider traveling north. This year, I visited Hirosaki, Aomori during Golden Week (late April and early May) and enjoyed the stunning cherry blossoms spread all over town. Ray I'm Ray, from Kazan (Tatarstan) and I have been a guide for over a year now! With the cherry blossom season being so short and unpredictable, planning is key for a successful viewing! How do you prepare for the tours each year and create an engaging experience for all ages? I try to create the atmosphere of hanami (Japanese traditional admiring cherry blossoms) on my tours, so that my guests truly imagine themselves as the Japanese enjoying strolls among gorgeous sakura trees and having delicious food in restaurants and food stalls around. How do you celebrate the cherry blossom season when you’re not guiding tours? I usually have a picnic in a park with my wife or friends. We chat, play boardgames, laugh, have fun, enjoy hanami related seasonal food, drinks, snacks, and sweets. What advice would you give to someone visiting Japan during the cherry blossom season for the first time? Check the sakura blooming forecast and plan everything in advance as it will get super crowded everywhere and get ready for prices to skyrocket during the period. What do you hope visitors take away from experiencing cherry blossom tours with you? Genuine experience of enjoying hanami like a local, trying delicious Japanese food and drinks, unforgettable beautiful photo memories, and general useful knowledge about Japan, sakura, traditions, food, and manners. Sandra My name is Sandra, and I’m from Barcelona, Spain. I have been a guide in Tokyo for two years, and it has been a wonderful experience. I’ve had the opportunity to meet many amazing people and try a wide variety of delicious food! What makes the cherry blossom season unique compared to other times of the year? The cherry blossom season is special because it’s a short but beautiful time when cherry trees bloom with lovely pink and white flowers. This amazing sight lasts only a few weeks, creating a magical atmosphere that encourages people to go outside and enjoy the beauty. It’s also a time for renewal and reflection, reminding us how temporary life can be. In Japan, this season includes festivals, picnics, and gatherings under the blossoms, called

Arigato Travel

25.02.2025

A Journey Into Rare Matcha – An Interview with Breakaway Matcha | Arigato Travel

Matcha tea has gained much popularity in recent years, but Breakaway Matcha isn't your average matcha company. Founded by Eric Gower, a matcha enthusiast with a mission to make it more accessible and enjoyable, Breakaway Matcha ranks first in high-quality tea. Alongside innovative brewing methods, it has a variety of attractive ceramics and teaware to enjoy your tea in! Today, we have Eric with us to scrabble about the vibrant world of the Breakaway Matcha! Greetings Eric! Can you please tell us a little bit about yourself? I’m originally from Northeastern Pennsylvania, a small town called Sayre. I’ve worn a lot of hats prior to starting Breakaway Matcha, including cookbook author, ghostwriter, editor, newspaper columnist, private chef… When did you come to Japan and what made you decide to come? I first went to Japan in 1985, for a summer of wonderful hitchhiking around the country. I was a junior at UC Berkeley, majoring in modern Japanese literature. I used to sit zazen in a working zen monastery in southern CA called Mt. Baldy Zen Center. The main teacher there was a Japanese man named Joshu Sasaki; a most interesting teacher, but his English was not great, so I started studying Japanese on my own so that I could talk with him. Probably hubris on my part! I made good progress but never reached beyond the basic stage back then. It was also at MBZC that I had my first taste of matcha. But I did learn enough to know I wanted to study more, so moved to Berkeley to do that. I wound up going to Kyoto a few weeks after graduation, and stayed, on and off, for the next 17 years or so. When and why did you decide to create Breakaway Matcha? What was your main inspiration behind it? Were you matcha-obsessed before? I followed the classic “scratch your own itch” school of entrepreneurship – I moved back to California and couldn’t find any good matcha; so, I started bringing the good stuff back in suitcases, mainly for my own consumption, but also to have plenty on hand to serve to friends, many of whom were in the food world in one way or another. I really like good matcha as an epicurean experience – I do enjoy ceremonies but I like drinking it casually and in a style that horrifies the purists: I use a handheld milk foaming wand, with which you can get incredible crema. I like it thick and full-bodied, but am quite particular about quality and temperature and ceramics. I only use water – good matcha doesn’t need milk or alt milk, let alone sweetener or anything else. Where do you get your Matcha from? Most of it comes from Uji, just outside Kyoto. Uji is famous for its high-quality matcha and green tea. It is by far one of the best places in Japan, if not the world, for great matcha. Uji is also the location of our Matcha Kyoto Green Tea Tour, so if you want to try some straight from the source, be sure to check it out! How do you ensure its quality? By working with people with incredible integrity (having a 500-year history helps). It's very important to make meaningful connections with trustworthy, consistently great partners, and the green tea industry is so well established in Japan over hundreds of years that there are many to choose from, so I'm proud to work with the people, shops, and companies that I do. But your online shop is not only about Matcha. You also offer Houjicha and ceramics. Is Matcha your most popular product? Yes, matcha is by far the most popular product. Everything else is just supportive of the matcha. We recently added powdered hojicha to our lineup. I love it for many reasons, but the main ones are its subtle yet beautiful smokiness, the satisfaction of using the entire tea plant and not just the leaves, and the fact that it’s caffeine-free so I can drink it at night. Can people from all around the world order your products online? Yes! We have customers from all over the world. Matcha is popular overseas, however, sometimes people find it difficult to drink because of its bitterness. Do you have any recommendations for them? If it’s bitter, it’s not great quality. Really the only thing you can do with bitter matcha is to mask it by adding fat and sweetener to it (everything tastes pretty good as a milkshake!). I hope this doesn’t sound off-putting, but the recommendation is to find better quality matcha, which lacks bitterness. Lastly, is there anything you would like to share with our readers? Yes, two things: 1) Matcha is better when you share it. I drink a ton of matcha solo, but it’s always better when I make it for someone and we commune over it, and 2) Matcha can be a seriously valuable tool for the wonderful practice of the conscious pause. Pausing one or twice during the day is an excellent way to become present! You pause to start the kettle, noticing as much as you can, you pause to sift the tea into a favourite ceramic cup or bowl, (many things to notice there), pour the water in, whisk it, take it somewhere, and sit, and sip it. All in it’s like 10 minutes max. They may turn out to be the most delightful 10 minutes of your day! Thank you so much Eric for taking precious time out of your day for us, answering the questions, and sharing your extraordinary story with us! We really appreciate your insights and we are glad you joined us for this interview. Follow Breakaway Matcha on: Website: https://breakawaymatcha.com/ Youtube: https://youtube.com/@breakawaymatcha9067?feature=shared Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/breakawaymatcha?igsh=MWJ4OWltbGg0d3l1cw== Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/XHfQeF1WqDqYsuKC/?mibextid=qi2Omg Twitter: https://x.com/breakawaymatcha Featured Photo Credit: Breakaway Matcha To try great matcha and green tea, join us on any of our fantastic Green Tea Experiences in Japan!

Arigato Travel

20.02.2025

A Champion for Women in Tourism: For International Women’s Day, Anne Kyle to Speak at ANZCCJ | Arigato Travel

At Arigato Travel, we have always been committed to creating opportunities for women in the tourism industry. As a company, we strive to support and collaborate with female entrepreneurs, chefs, artisans, and tourism professionals, ensuring that our tours and trip plans highlight their incredible contributions. With an average of 60% of our team being women, we are proud to be part of the movement addressing the imbalance in Japan’s tourism sector, where leadership roles are still predominantly held by men. Women make up nearly 54% of the global tourism workforce, yet they remain significantly underrepresented in leadership roles. Studies show that companies with a gender-balanced workforce—particularly those with 50% or more women in key positions—achieve higher profitability, improved innovation, and better customer satisfaction. A McKinsey report found that businesses in the top quartile for gender diversity in executive teams were 25% more likely to outperform financially than those in the bottom quartile. These statistics highlight why it is crucial for the tourism industry to actively support and promote women into leadership positions. That’s why we are thrilled to announce that Anne Kyle, CEO of Arigato Travel, will be a featured panelist at the ANZCCJ International Women’s Day 2025 Breakfast & Panel Discussion. Hosted by the Australian and New Zealand Chamber of Commerce in Japan (ANZCCJ), this event will take place on March 7, 2025, at the Pullman Tokyo Tamachi, bringing together business leaders to discuss the theme ‘Accelerate Action’—a call to break down barriers and push for real change in gender equality. Anne has long been an advocate for diversity and inclusion in tourism, and through Arigato Travel, she has actively worked to uplift women in the industry. From partnering with female-owned businesses to supporting women-led culinary experiences, her leadership has helped carve a path for more women to thrive in tourism. Her participation in this panel underscores the importance of proactive steps in addressing systemic biases and creating an industry that offers equal opportunities for all. The discussion, moderated by Rebecca Thorn, General Manager of Hotel Indigo Tokyo Shibuya, will feature esteemed panelists including Ms. Cynthia Usui, a hospitality expert dedicated to customer-centric service; Ms. Yukiko Sakai, Senior Technical Manager for Product Development and Quality Assurance at Leprino Foods; and Mr. Dean Daniels, Vice President of Operations and Representative Director at Accor Japan K.K. Together, they will explore how businesses and individuals can take decisive action to dismantle barriers and promote inclusivity in the workplace. This event is not just a panel discussion—it is a powerful opportunity for networking, learning, and driving meaningful change. For those passionate about gender equality in the workplace, particularly in industries like tourism and hospitality, this gathering will provide valuable insights and inspiration. At Arigato Travel, we know that empowering women strengthens the entire industry. We are always looking for passionate tourism professionals, interns, and support team members who share our mission. If you are interested in building a career in travel and making a difference, we encourage you to reach out to us at jobs@arigatojapan.co.jp. For more details about the ANZCCJ International Women’s Day 2025 event and to register, visit: Event Registration. If you’d like to connect with Arigato Travel, feel free to contact us at info@arigatojapan.co.jp. Additionally, Arigato Travel CEO and Co-owner Anne Kyle, along with General Manager Lauren Shannon, are available to speak at events, conferences, and corporate gatherings in Japan and globally. They bring insights on tourism, business growth, and scaling, and are passionate about sharing their expertise with industry professionals and organizations. Contact us for speaking opportunities at info@arigatojapan.co.jp Featured photo credit: Pixel-Shot Read more about Anne and how she started our company in our interview!

Arigato Travel

19.02.2025

Dive Into Toba: The Best Coastal Experiences With Kaito Yumin Club | Arigato Travel

Located in Ise-Shima National Park on the eastern coast of Japan’s Mie Prefecture, Kaito Yumin Club offers immersive experiences and tours that highlight Toba’s rich coastal history. For over 2,000 years, the sea and islands have shaped the lives of the local fishermen and the iconic Ama, traditional women divers who have practiced their craft for generations. Mie is not only known for its maritime traditions but also for its historical landmarks, such as the Ise Grand Shrine and Mikimoto Pearl Island, the birthplace of pearl farming! Kaito Yumin Club allows guests to connect with this vibrant history and local way of life while exploring the natural beauty of the region. From kayaking through the National Park’s waters and tasting fresh seafood, to experiencing the unique Ama culture, Kaito Yumin Club offers an award-winning ecotourism experience that reveals what makes Toba a truly unique destination. With tours led by English speaking guides and an Italian speaking guide, every visitor can enjoy a personalized journey through this remarkable coastal area, discovering the true spirit of Toba. Keep reading to hear more from this amazing tourism company! Hello! Can you please introduce yourself? Hello! My name is Kiku Ezaki and I’m CEO of Kaito Yumin Club. I was born and raised in Toba. We operate with a staff of six and plan/market about 20 different tours that allow you to experience the charms of Ise-Shima. I once worked for a company in Tokyo, but returned to Toba at the age of 23 to take over the family ryokan business. Then I started Kaito Yumin Club with my friends in 2001 when I was 26 years old. What inspired the creation of the Kaito Yumin Club and what vision did the founders have in mind? When we started Kaito Yumin Club, local people did not realize the value of the attractions that Toba had to offer. On the other hand, while working the ryokan, I saw that guests were impressed by the cultural and industrial experiences in Toba, so I started planning and managing hands-on eco tours. We believe that in rural areas, it is meaningless to offer tours that only add value to the clients. We are committed to eco-tourism as a form of tourism that is friendly to our customers, nature, residents and other industries, and ourselves as a tourism operator. The Kaito Yumin Club offers so many different experiences to guests so they can learn about Toba City and its culture! What are some of the most popular experiences and why do guests love them? It is the 1 Day Ama Experience Tour. Ama, or women divers, are fishermen who collect shellfish and seaweeds without oxygen cylinders and by diving with their bare hands. The history of ama divers is said to be more than 3,000 years old. This tour is a one-day tour that allows you to learn about ama and ama culture through hands-on experience. The title of this tour is easy to understand, which is one of the reasons for its popularity. Another important factor is that the tour is designed from a foreigner's point of view, and the content and time allocated are designed for efficient enjoyment of Ise-Shima. We believe that this tour is an easy choice for those who are interested in ama for the first time. What unique cultural tours can guests expect at the Kaito Yumin Club that really immerse them in the local Toba traditions? There are two tours. The first is the Ama Adventure Tour! Not only can you enjoy diving and communicating with ama divers, but you can also contribute to maintaining the traditional lifestyle of Ama divers and protecting the local environment by catching the sea urchins which damage the seaweed forest. The second is the Sea Bream Spectacular Tour. Sea bream, a fish often eaten on special occasions, is an integral part of Japanese culture. On this tour, you will have the opportunity to see and swim with hundreds of sparkling sea breams up close in an eco-friendly fish farm. Your activity tours include sea kayaking to deserted islands, snorkeling with Japan’s luckiest fish, and fishing with Japanese fisherman! What is the most exciting wildlife or nature encounter guests can expect during these tours? Ama. They are not natural creatures, but they are not controllable. Our marine tours often take you to the uninhabited islands called Mitsu-shima. There we often encounter Ama fishing. It is exciting to be able to watch them catch turban shells and abalone up close, isn’t it? I think they are somewhere between nature and human society. How do the experiences offered at the Kaito Yumin Club change with the seasons? Are there certain activities you would recommend for specific seasons? There are tours available year-round and seasonal tours. In spring, we recommend the Ama Adventure Tour, where you can dive with Ama. In summer, the Island Adventure Sea Kayak Tour is popular and easy for beginners to join. In fall, we recommend the Sea Bream Spectacular Tour, where you can swim with sea breams. In winter, the Seaweed Harvesting and Fisherman Lunch Tour is a must-do. You will board a fishing boat and visit a seaweed farm, which is popular as an ingredient for miso soup. You will be able to harvest and taste the seaweed with fishermen. The Toba islands are known for their seafood - what is one dish guests absolutely can’t miss while visiting the area? Toba is home to many delicious seafood products, each of which has its own season. For example, Sawara (Spanish mackerel) is in season from fall to winter, Sawara caught by trolling and meeting several criteria are branded locally as “Toshijima Toro Sawara,” named after the island where many of them are caught. In January, you can taste wakame (seaweed) shabu shabu which is only available at this time of year because it is the thinning out of cultured wakame (wakame that has not yet fully grown) and is soft and can only be tasted locally, etc. I want people to enjoy the delicious foods of each season. Anything else you would like to share with our readers? Come to Toba and actually feel those attractions. And I would be happy if you could have a sightseeing experience to ensure that those attractions will be passed on to the future. Thank you so much for taking the time to be interviewed! Website: https://oz-group.jp/english/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kaitoyuminclub/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Kaitoyuminclub/ Featured Photo Credit: Kaito Yumin Club Use code Summer2025 when checking out any of our food tours between February 10 to July 31, 2025, to get an exclusive 15% discount for tours taking place between June 1 and August 31, 2025!

Arigato Travel

12.02.2025

Four Destinations To Make You Rethink Your Kansai Travel Plans | Arigato Travel

When planning a trip to Japan the Kansai region, Osaka, Kyoto, and Nara are the first destinations that come to mind. They are, of course, famous for a reason. Kyoto's beautiful history and exquisite architecture transport you back to the Edo period, the bowing Deer of Nara are truly a sight to behold, and Osaka’s vibrant nightlife and food culture are always at the top of any traveller’s list, not to mention Universal Studios. However, with the recent surge in holidaymakers taking long-planned trips to Japan, over-tourism and crowded sightseeing locations might give you pause for thought. The good news is that the Kansai region's surrounding prefectures are also home to such a wealth of breathtaking scenery, rich culture, and incredibly kind locals that you can save the hustle and bustle of the big cities for another time! Tokushima: Shikoku Shikoku is an island situated just below Kyoto and Osaka, connected to the mainland by one of the longest bridges in Japan. It is a vibrant and culturally rich island with four prefectures, each with its own unique food, culture, and areas to explore. With daily affordable flights from Haneda to Tokushima airport, not only does the journey take less time, but it is also far less expensive than getting the bullet train to Kyoto or Osaka! On walking out of the airport you are greeted by the smell of the sea in beautiful clean air, and you immediately know you are out of Tokyo and are now completely surrounded by nature. It’s easy enough to travel around by public transport, however, if you do want to rent a car to get to some more remote locations at your own pace, I recommend NicoNico rent-a-car. Their rates start at just 2,025 JPY for 12 hours with a free membership (you can become a member and drive away on the same day!). They offer English support, and you only need to prepare an international driving permit before arriving in Japan. Tokushima is also connected to the mainland by a smaller bridge in Naruto (yes, like the anime!). Due to the current shifts, at each turning of the tide whirlpools form in the strait which are a sight to behold! The whirlpools can be viewed from a viewing deck on the bridge, or by boat up close. The whirlpools are best seen at the spring tide or in the fall when the position of the moon brings the incoming tide particularly high, so be sure to plan your trip accordingly if you want to see some big ones! If you don’t fancy travelling too far afield, Tokushima City is also a cultural hub. It is home to the Awa dance hall where you can enjoy daily performances of the 400-year-old Awa Odori dance, performed by their exclusive dance group ‘Awa no Kaze’ (Tr: The Wind of Awa). They also have a dance museum, and opportunities to learn and dance alongside the troop! The museum also hosts the ropeway to the top of Mt Bizan, for a breathtaking sunset view at the end of the day. Iya Valley: Shikoku Tokushima is also home to the Iya Valley, a stunning location of natural beauty. About an hour by car from Obote station, it’s further inland but well worth the journey. In the mountain village of Iya, you can stay in your very own thatched-roof home for an experience like no other. The houses each have their own unique style, but all are nestled along the valley and offer the most serene and breathtaking views, coupled with the traditional feel of Japanese living and dining. With traditional dining experiences, as well as soba-making workshops, tours of traditional buildings as well as outdoor experiences such as kayaking, trekking and rafting on offer, it’s truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience. The Iya Valley is also home to a breathtaking vine bridge, as well as natural hot springs and a scarecrow village, so even if you choose to stay elsewhere it’s definitely worth the time it takes to visit! Tottori Sand Dunes: Tottori Tottori often falls below the radar of most travellers, as it’s relatively unknown as a tourist destination, but it is home to one of the most truly breathtaking sights in Japan, the Tottori dunes. From Tottori station, the sightseeing bus travels towards the coast for about 30 minutes, dropping you off at the tourist information center. There is a cable car down to the dunes, or you can walk for about 15 minutes to reach them. The journey doesn’t stop there though! They are truly enormous, stretching for around 16 km along the coast of the Sea of Japan, and range up to 50m high! This giant sandy playground is enough in itself, but more adventurous travellers can indulge in sandboarding, or camel riding (yes, actual camels!). Walking over the dunes takes about 20 minutes from the start of the sand to the sea, with a steep slope leading down to the beautiful water. You can swim, but be prepared to make the steep climb back up or take a longer walk around the dunes to get back up and dry! In summer, be aware of the dangerous heat, Japan can be very hot and humid, and there is a very real risk of heat stroke. Places with no shade like this are pretty risky, particularly at this time of year. Instead, try going in the autumn months, like September or October. It’s still hot and sunny but the humidity is greatly reduced, giving the best chance at a worry-free day on the sand. If your trip is planned for the summer months, try not to spend the whole day on the sand, and use the cable car to avoid the gruelling walk under the sun! Regardless of when you come, make sure to bring plenty of water! The Castles of Okayama Okayama is situated just across from Shikoku and is blessed with beautiful beaches and stunning seaside resorts. It’s also rich in history, making it a great alternative to Kyoto for the more adventurous traveler. Okayama is home to several ancient castles, located in the stunning countryside and often on the top of mountains. These make for stunning day trips, especially for those who love a short hike and a good view. The four main castles can all be visited over 2 days with a car, or separately on day trips if you’re relying on public transport. The closest castle, Okayama Castle is located only a 10-minute walk from JR Okayama station and is one of the most famous castles in Japan. It also connects with the Asahi River, and just across the river, you can also find the Okayama Korakuen Garden. This traditional Japanese garden is beautiful by day, and even more so at night thanks to stunning illuminations which highlight the beauty of the garden. On the outskirts of the city, you’ll find Kinojo Castle (also translated as Ki Castle), one of Japan’s most famous top 100 castles. Whilst much of the structure has been lost to time, it boasts a 2.8km walkway across the peaks of the surrounding mountains, giving a beautiful view of the surrounding foothills. The remaining two castles are more of a trip, but still well worth the effort. Bichu Matsuyama Castle, in particular, is a mountain castle nestled in a sea of clouds. Between September and April, the castle can be seen floating above a sea of clouds at dawn, with the best photos being taken from the Unkai Observatory. This castle is probably the most remote of the four, as it is located a bus or taxi ride away from the nearest station, however, the remote setting gives for a wonderfully magical experience. For Spring visitors Tsuyama Castle is one of Japan’s most famous cherry blossom viewing spots. With approximately 1000 cherry blossom trees in full bloom at the height of the season, this Castle is definitely worth the time to go and see. It was restored in 2005, and as a result, is a beautiful castle to photograph today. The castle is only a 10-minute walk from JR Tsuyama Station. It’s easy to get stuck in the hamster wheel of famous tourist spots that everyone on Instagram seems to be going to, but I hope this has encouraged you to explore off the beaten path. Southern Japan is rich with culture and a beautiful blend of nature and cityscapes that will leave you wondering why you ever thought of keeping it off your list! Of course, the big cities in Japan are wonderful to visit all year around, however, Japan has a very special seasonal culture with natural events that can only be seen for a limited time, so when planning your trip it’s well worth researching what might be happening around the time of your holiday so you don’t miss out on a once in a lifetime experience! In my personal experience of travelling around the country, I have never regretted taking a risk to visit somewhere I know very little about. You can always find something unique and beautiful, be it food, nature, cultural monuments, or hidden shops and cafes which leave a lasting memory of that place. Take the chance, you may just discover your new favourite place! Featured Photo Credit: Japan Shore Excursions Traveling around western Japan this spring? Complete your trip with a truly local experience with one of our Cherry Blossom tours around Kyoto or Osaka!

Arigato Travel

11.02.2025

Travel Lighter With JAL’s New Luggage Delivery Service | Arigato Travel

Imagine that feeling of excitement as you finally disembark from the plane onto Japanese soil, on your family trip that you’ve probably been planning for months. You can hardly wait – nor do you have the time to dawdle with so many must-visit spots packed back-to-back on your week-long itinerary. All you have to do is get through immigration and drop off your luggage at your hotel – but then you realize how it’ll take hours to get to the city center from the airport, and just how crowded transportation would be with other travellers carrying bigger loads of luggage than yours. Plus by the time the fun can finally begin, it’s either too late into the day and/or you’re already exhausted from having to navigate the overcrowded stations to recover your enthusiasm. That’s where JAL’s (Japan Airlines) airport baggage delivery service swoops in to take the load off of you, regardless if you’re flying with JAL. Particularly, its newest offer of “same-day delivery service,” set up to reduce congestion on public transportation, might just be the most convenient option for those traveling to Tokyo. Why should you use this same-day delivery service? Limited to those staying in a hotel and arriving at Haneda Airport’s Terminal 3, including Japanese residents, this service strives to deliver your bags to your accommodation by the end of the day. For a flat rate of 4,500 yen per suitcase, regardless of size, you can have it delivered to your hotel and enjoy your Japan journey straight away from day one. Ultimately skipping the burden of having to carry your things everywhere you go. It's especially recommended for big families and those carrying around multiple large, heavy suitcases, considering it’s far easier than having to ride a big taxi or two to central districts like Shinjuku. And much more affordable than having to pay eight hundred yen per station locker before you’re finally allowed to check in at your hotel. Using this service, you can check in your luggage by 4 p.m. and have it delivered to your hotel by 8 p.m. For those arriving later, you can apply for the service at 6 p.m., the latest for a delivery time of 10 p.m. Not to mention, the service delivers to 14 out of Tokyo’s 23 wards, including the popular areas of Shinjuku, Shibuya, and Chuo (where Ginza is located). How do you use this service? Simply head for the JAL ABC (airport baggage delivery service counter) at the arrival lobby of Terminal 3, located just past customs. Scan the 2D barcode on the poster in front of the counter and make your reservation and payment. Upon completing your application, issue a baggage sticker from the machine next to the poster and stick it onto your suitcase. Check your baggage in at the counter and feel free to head for the first destination on your bucket list. What other luggage delivery services are available if you’re not arriving at Haneda? JAL also offers a more inclusive “hands-free travel” service, with reasonable rates that change depending on the luggage size and desired delivery address. It’s available at 4 airports, including Haneda, Narita, Kansai International Airport, and Chubu International Airport. Moreover, it’s possible to send your luggage to lodging facilities other than a hotel such as inns, Airbnbs, and rented apartments as long as you can provide an address and phone number. Same-day delivery is guaranteed for those staying in select hotels in the Tokyo Bay area (Odaiba, Ariake, Maihama, and Shin-Urayasu), and who’ve checked in their luggage by 1 p.m. For other areas and accommodations, you’re able to select a date and time frame but note that delivery might only be possible from the next day onwards. Where can you apply for this hands-free travel service? You can find the JAL ABC counter at the arrival lobby of: Haneda’s Terminal 3 Narita’s Terminal 1 and 2 Kansai’s Terminal 1 Chubu’s Terminal 1 Note that you can only apply for this service by going to the counter upon arrival if you’re looking to send luggage from the airport to a specified address. If you want to send luggage to the airport before you depart from Japan or apply for both-way delivery (from airport to hotel upon arrival, plus hotel to airport before departure), then you’ll have to call the Reservation Center beforehand using the following numbers: Toll-Free: 0120-981-250 From cellular phone (TEL): 03-3545-1166 How do you use this service? In the case of sending luggage from the airport to your accommodation, simply go to the JAL ABC counter at the specified terminal and fill out the delivery form. The important information you’ll have to provide includes: zip code delivery address telephone number of the delivery location name of the person picking up the luggage (presumably yourself) If you’re staying at a hotel or other lodging facility, then you’ll also be expected to provide your check-in date. If you’re unsure about any of the specific details, the staff will be able to look up the above-required information. There will be English-speaking staff on hand to help you with your reservation. And don’t forget to show your JAL/JMB card for that mileage accumulation if you’re a member. What are the luggage requirements? The maximum size of a piece of luggage must be a total (sum of its height, width, and depth) of 260cm and have a maximum weight of 50kg. The exception for this is if you’re sending to Okinawa from any of the above airports, in which case a maximum of 160cm and 30kg are applied instead. In addition to regular luggage, you can use the service to deliver golf bags, skis, and snowboards, for which the size limit of 160cm is also applied. How much is the delivery fee? The fee varies depending on 3 factors: the size and weight of the luggage the airport where the luggage is going to be sent from the delivery/pick-up area (Kanto, Kansai, etc.) JAL ABC’s website displays the full pricing chart, but users can expect to pay between 1,950-8,570 yen (again, depending on the luggage size) from either Narita or Haneda to a delivery address in the Kanto area (Tokyo, Chiba, Yokohama, etc.). Time and money become especially valuable when you’re travelling abroad, so save yourself the hassle of lugging your baggage all the way to the hotel and get right into the fun part: sightseeing. With reasonable rates and a trustworthy delivery system, apply for either of JAL’s delivery services and make use of these airports’ close proximity to popular destinations. Drop off all your baggage and head directly for Tokyo Skytree, Tokyo Disney Resort, or Universal Studios for a completely stress-free, fun-filled day. Thanks to JAL, travel has never been more easier than it is today! Featured Photo Credit: Haneda Airport official website Plan to visit Japan in the future? Book a Personal Travel Consulting Call with our experts and let us ensure your trip is unforgettable!

Arigato Travel

11.02.2025

Omotenashi Selection Shop “Little Japan”: At Narita Airport | Arigato Travel

If you’ve traveled to Japan through Narita’s airport, you may have gotten a chance to see the airport’s Little Japan shop. If you haven’t, and you’ll be using Narita, you’ll have the opportunity to look at their interesting selection of products available for purchase. The Omotenashi Selection’s Little Japan shop opened in July of last year and will run until June this year. Considering there are only a few months left before the shop is closed, it is highly recommended that people visit while they’re in the airport to take advantage of these limited-time products either during their arrival or departure in Narita. Many may be familiar with the term omotenashi, which means hospitality in Japanese. Something special about the products at the Omotenashi Selection Shop is that they are made so that you can feel cultural values such as omotenashi in their Japanese craftsmanship. By doing this, you can bring back a little part of Japan with you whether it is an accessory, a household item, and so forth, with a deep meaning and importance. Now without further ado, this blog will introduce the variety of products you can find at Little Japan! Products at Little Japan From daily-use products for your kitchen, decorations for your living or bedroom, and even toiletries, there are various Japanese-crafted items that go far beyond a souvenir all found in this little shop in Narita Airport. If you're able to visit, the store is located in Narita Airport Terminal 2 Center on the 4th floor! Kitchen Items 1. Choplate Exactly as it reads, this item serves as a small, round cutting board when cutting food in the kitchen. With it being lightweight, thin, and also serving as a plate so that you don’t have to pile up your sink with both a cutting board and a plate, the Choplate is convenient in multiple ways. It comes in two different sizes, but they’re both relatively small so they’re still conveniently crafted items for your kitchen! 2. Fuji Sunsun Sponge Many typical sponges lose their wear and ability to wash well after a few uses, which is why Little Japan crafted the Fuji Sunsun Sponge, a sturdy sponge with durability for about half a year, with sustainable craftsmanship as well. While this product will make washing dishes easier, you’ll also be able to experience Japanese product quality with your own eyes. Food and Drink Products 1. Ise Matcha Powder With matcha being a very popular staple in the tea world in Japan, this is another popular product many go out of their way to bring back home. With this shop being in the airport, you won’t have to travel far to find authentic high-quality matcha powder. Using traditional methods, and stone grinding techniques with 100% tea leaves, you can rest assured you’re getting the real thing. You’ll even get your powder in a matte black tin to reflect matcha becoming more modern in today’s world. 2. Green Tea Similar to matcha, green tea, or sencha, is also very popular in Japan and amongst tourists. Little Japan sells box sets of sencha green tea which will come with a tea tin, and enough powder to last you quite a while, giving you a bountiful gift to bring back from your travels. 3. Kikkoman Goyougura Series Many are familiar with the Kikkoman soy sauce bottles, typically huge bulky plastic bottles of mild soy sauce great for putting on a variety of foods. However, Little Japan takes the design one step further with their Goyougura Series, giving the Kikkoman bottle a sleek, black slender look. This cured, rich soy sauce is made using traditional methods and pairs beautifully with fish, rice, and so much more. Toiletries 1. 360 Degree Toothbrush A spin on the regular toothbrush, these bristles go in a 360 rotation, contrary to the flat bristled toothbrushes. With high-quality craftsmanship, these toothbrushes have high rates of plaque removal and are recommended for those with sensitive teeth. With sizes for adults and children, these toothbrushes make a great addition to one’s home whether for yourself or your family. 2. O.T.F. Natural Skin Care Oil Another plant-based skin care product, this oil will leave your skin hydrated and smooth. By utilizing oils such as jojoba, tea seed, and rice bran oil, instead of overwhelming the product with artificial fragrances, the mixture of natural oils gives off a nature-like scent. With Narita Airport being a very popular airport, the placement of Omotenashi Selection’s Little Japan is a convenient opportunity to experience real authentic Japanese-crafted items, food, and drink. If you lean more towards popular Japanese souvenirs such as knives or tea, this selection shop will introduce you to the other various hidden gems from the heart of Japan. Whether you’re arriving in Narita or departing, take the chance to take with you some delicious authentic foods used in Japanese cooking, natural skin care products, or even some thoughtfully designed silverware. As this is a limited-time store, that means a limited-time opportunity to get your hands on some Japanese products, so act fast before it ends! Please be aware: The lineup of products in this store is due to change occasionally, and our friends at Omotenashi Selection have informed us that they are planning on replacing some of the products in April, so some of the listed products in this blog that were available at time of writing may not be available after this time. Featured Photo Credit: littlejapanbyomotenashi Learn more about Omotenashi Selection in our interview!

Arigato Travel

11.02.2025

Expo 2025 in Osaka: The Future Is Here | Arigato Travel

World Expos are usually massive collaborative events, where innovative technologies and solutions are presented for the world to see. Many innovations such as the elevator, and the telephone, and concepts like electric cars and IC chips were all presented at various World Expos around the world. Japan has hosted two World Expos in the past, Expo 1970 in Osaka and Expo 2004 in Aichi. In 2025, Osaka will play host to another edition of this grand event, bringing the international community back to Japan. Let’s learn a bit more about what to expect from Expo 2025. The Expo 2025 The Expo 2025, Osaka, Kansai (from April 13th, 2025 to October 13th, 2025) is an event aimed at bringing together people and technologies to address the challenges that the world is likely to face in the coming years. It will serve as a platform where countries, corporations, and governments can collaborate and share their wisdom, insights, and innovative solutions on matters such as sustainability, regional economics, and the evolution of society in the future. The 2025 Expo will take place on an artificial island known as Yumeshima, located near the Osaka waterfront. One of the main highlights of this venue is that it takes advantage of Osaka’s proximity to the Seto Inland Sea, and will allow visitors to feel connected with the sea and the sky at the same time, symbolizing ‘Unity in Diversity’. The Big Theme: “Designing Future Society for Our Lives” The Expo’s theme is a call to action for creating a more sustainable and inclusive world, through innovation, collaboration, and tangible solutions to global challenges. At the heart of this event is the ‘People’s Living Lab,’ where participants can collaborate and participate in activities that can inspire solutions for a better life. The Expo’s theme is further divided into three interconnected sub-themes: Saving Lives: This sub-theme emphasizes groundbreaking advancements in healthcare, food safety, and environmental sustainability. From tackling global health crises to ensuring access to clean water and nutritious food, it will highlight solutions for safeguarding the well-being of the planet and its people. Japan’s innovations, including research from institutions like Kyoto University's Center for iPS Cell Research, will play a prominent role. Empowering Lives: Focused on education, technology, and equality, this sub-theme highlights ways to enable individuals and communities to thrive. Key exhibits will explore gender equality, youth empowerment, social inclusion, and strategies to create environments where everybody has the ability to contribute and succeed. The Women’s Pavilion is another prominent section, with its spotlight on initiatives to empower women and promote social inclusivity globally. Connecting Lives: Celebrating human connections in today’s interconnected world, this sub-theme explores how cultures, industries, and nations can unite to address common challenges like urbanization and digital transformation. The Kansai Pavilion and Osaka Healthcare Pavilion will showcase innovative urban planning, healthcare solutions, and collaborative technologies for creating harmonious societies. The Expo and Sustainable Development Goals Another highlight of Expo 2025 is its alignment with the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), aimed at eradicating poverty, protecting the planet, and fostering prosperity by 2030. Visitors will encounter exhibits and discussions that showcase innovative solutions and promote international collaboration to advance these objectives. The Expo will also initiate discussions on Japan's visionary Society 5.0 strategy, which imagines a human-centered future where technology enhances daily life. Building on Industry 4.0, Society 5.0 will integrate AI, robotics, and the Internet of Things to address global challenges like healthcare, urbanization, and sustainability. Through these themes, the Expo seeks to inspire a future where technology fosters human well-being and global progress. Prepare To Meet Myaku Myaku Every major Expo has its iconic mascot, and for Osaka Expo 2025, that role is taken by Myaku Myaku - a whimsical, colorful character representing the Expo's core values of life, water, and interconnectedness. The mascot’s name evokes the idea of continuous flow of energy, innovation, and collaboration that sustains our world. Myakumyaku's design combines vibrant hues and abstract elements, making it both futuristic and approachable. As the face of the Expo, the mascot has already garnered fans worldwide for its quirky and imaginative appearance. Visitors can expect to see Myakumyaku featured prominently throughout the event as a cheerful guide to the Expo’s themes and experiences. Osaka in the Spotlight One of Japan’s largest metro regions, the host city of Osaka has been a key attraction for all visitors to Japan for many years. Although just a short ride away by Shinkansen from Tokyo, it has a totally different vibe and personality compared to almost any other major city in Japan. It is a laid-back, yet lively city, famous for its exciting nightlife, delicious food, and friendly people. It also has a castle which reminds people that Osaka is not all about modern life, but it also has a historic and cultural side. The city offers visitors many opportunities to explore nearby attractions once the day’s work is done. If you need any ideas on what to do while you are here, check out our Osaka-based tours and activities. Dates & Tickets Multiple ticket options are available for purchase, including one-day tickets, weekend tickets, season passes for multiple entries, etc. More details are given on the Expo’s official website. To purchase the tickets or passes, visit the official website, and register for an ExpoID. Once the ExpoID is registered, tickets and passes can be purchased as per your choice. If you would like to visit a specific pavilion or exhibit at the venue, you may want to also book a specific time slot for visiting, so as not to be disappointed when visiting. Official Expo Website: https://www.expo2025.or.jp/en Expo Dates: April 13th 2025 to October 13th 2025 Venue: Yumeshima, Osaka, Japan Why You Shouldn’t Miss Osaka Expo Japan’s third time hosting the World Expo promises to be a grand event, as the world will converge at Osaka to make new connections and build a new future. The Osaka Expo 2025 promises a transformative experience with futuristic exhibits, cultural showcases, and international collaboration. The site itself, set on Yumeshima Island, incorporates water and greenery into its design, symbolizing harmony between humanity and nature. With over 150 countries participating, the event will offer a global stage for innovation and dialogue, aimed at creating a better tomorrow. Whether you're fascinated by technology, inspired by culture, or eager to see real-world solutions to global challenges, the Expo will be a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Start planning your visit early to explore this incredible vision of our future society! Feature photo credit: xalien If you're coming to Osaka to check out the Expo, why not join a culinary tour and discover the city as a local?

Arigato Travel

31.01.2025

Things to do in Osaka in February 2025 | Arigato Travel

February is an interesting time of year for Japan, with winter weather slightly lingering, but traces of spring just around the corner. Certain areas of Japan during February, though rarely, still see snow, but some days the weather will make you think spring has already come, as the country’s weather can be unpredictable during its separation from winter. Despite the weather being inconsistent, Osaka has a lot of activities and fun sights to explore during your February trip. A good thing about February is that this month holds the Setsubun holiday to mark the start of spring, and as a result, this time is also when Japan’s plum blossoms begin to bloom, painting the city in pink. To give you a good idea of what the city has available, this blog will introduce several locations and events so that you can get the most out of your Osaka trip. Setsubun at Sumiyoshi Taisha It wouldn’t be a February in Japan without witnessing at least one Setsubun festival. With the time-honored traditions of welcoming spring and saying goodbye to winter, yakuyoku (banishing bad luck), and wishing for good fortune, a stop at Sumiyoshi Taisha shrine is one you won’t want to miss. While typical festivals may just consist of designated shrine workers tossing small packs of beans at festival-goers to catch for good luck, this festival takes it a step further, turning the celebration into a performance. If you get the chance to participate in this festival, you’ll get to witness horseback archers firing arrows at targets that represent misfortune, which are made to look like oni (demons). Date: February 3rd Time: Open from 6 AM - 5 PM Address: 2 Chome-9-89 Sumiyoshi, Sumiyoshi Ward, Osaka, 558-0045, Japan Website: https://www.sumiyoshitaisha.net/events/annualevents/02.html Price: Free Plum Blossoms at Osaka Castle Park Due to the plum blossoms planted around Osaka Castle being in full bloom in February, many visitors come to Osaka Castle Park to admire the beautiful pink trees with the castle in the backdrop. While most of them are pink, if you take the time to look at the other plum blossoms, you’ll see how there have been more than 100 different types of plum blossom trees, varying in colors such as yellow, white, and different shades of pink. As there are roped-off walkways within the park, it makes a peaceful stroll while beautiful trees full of flowers line your path. Even if you use this visit as a break from your activities, just sitting on one of the park’s many benches or enjoying a hot drink to beat the cold from one of the surrounding cafes available at the park will still make a great way to spend time at this park and welcome spring in your own way. Date: January to March Time: Park is open 24 hours Address: 2 Osakajo, Chuo Ward, Osaka, 540-0002, Japan Website: https://www.osakacastlepark.jp/flower/plum_grove.html Price: Free Hankyu and Hanshin Umeda Main Store Valentine’s Day Events The month of February may make most think of Valentine's Day, which is celebrated as White Day in Japan. As chocolate is a vital component during this holiday, you’ll see several boxes or displays of chocolate in grocery stores or department stores. If you’re in Osaka, you’ll have the opportunity to visit the Hankyu or Hanshin Umeda Main Building, two huge department stores with a chocolate exposition (Hankyu) or strawberry and chocolate-centered events (Hanshin) consisting of over 300 brands and 3000 different types of chocolate from all over the world, and various activities with strawberries. For Hankyu, most events take place on the 9th floor, where there are multiple chances to buy one-of-a-kind chocolate. There are also several seminars at this store from chocolatiers who will talk about how they make chocolate, where it comes from, and much more. Some cost a fee to participate but others are free, so if you’re lucky you might be able to listen in on one! If you visit Hanshin, a four-minute walk away from Hankyu, you’ll get to take part in a strawberry picking event, enjoy different types of strawberries with rich chocolate, and much more. You will also be able to have the chance to enjoy beautiful and highly decorated strawberry desserts such as parfaits, cakes, and more at the cafes and restaurants at this Valentine's Day event. Date: January 20th-February 14th (Hankyu) January 15th - February 14th (Hanshin) Time: 10 AM - 8 PM Address: 8-7 Kakudacho, Kita Ward, Osaka, 530-8350, Japan (Hankyu) 1 Chome-13-13 Umeda, Kita Ward, Osaka, 530-8224, Japan (Hanshin) Website: https://website.hankyu-dept.co.jp/honten/h/valentine/index.html (Hankyu) https://www.hanshin-dept.jp/hshonten/ (Hanshin) Price: Free (seminar prices can be checked on the website, item prices vary) Osaka Marathon For the athletic readers or those who wish to witness such a huge event, Osaka holds a marathon event on the 24th of February every year, a chance for those who wish to participate in an event that brings people from all over together to race. The marathon course stretches from Osaka’s Prefecture Government, all the way to Osaka Castle Park where the finish line is. Whether you participate in the run or follow them on the sidelines, you’ll get to see very popular sites of the city in a very energetic style, such as castles, temples, and more. Date: February 24th Time: 9:15 AM - 4:15 PM Address: 2 Chome Otemae, Chuo Ward, Osaka, 540-8570, Japan Website: https://osaka-marathon.com/ Price: 16,000 yen for domestic, 18,000 yen for overseas runners Sky Kotatsu Ferris Wheel Want a way to break away from the cold? Located in Osaka is a Ferris wheel that has Kotatsu tables installed in each cart so people can stay warm while enjoying the views of the city from so high. If you are unfamiliar with what a kotatsu is, they are tables with heaters attached to the bottom of the surface, usually with thick, warm blankets attached, a common table found in Japanese houses during the winter season. Even better, you can enjoy hot canned oden (fish cake stew) during the ride, another common winter item in Japan. There is also warm sake available, along with non-alcoholic options. Since the ticket price includes the oden, it makes a great and affordable activity to keep warm. Date: December 2nd - February 28th Time: 10 AM - 8 PM Address: 2-1 Senribanpakukōen, Suita, Osaka 565-0826, Japan Website: https://ticket.osaka-wheel.com/#138 Price: 1600 yen Ichiya Kannyo Festival Held at Osaka’s Nozato Sumiyoshi Shrine, the Ichiya Kannyo festival, or the one-night festival, is a great event to add to your plans to experience Japanese culture. While the origin isn’t clear, there’s evidence to state that this festival for praying for safety has been going on for at least 300 years, since around 1702. Back in these times, this festival would participate in sacrificing a young girl to the deity of the shrine every January 20th, in a way to prevent flooding in the Nozato area. Now the festival is celebrated in February, and due to a Samurai in this period offering himself to the shrine along with an abundant amount of food and plants, if you attend this festival you may get a glimpse at the meal cooked for the gods inspired by the Samurai’s offerings. You will also get to see a selection of young girls participate in the ceremony, wearing beautiful traditional costumes. While this festival is based on a sad, gloomy practice, you will notice it has a more solemn atmosphere than most Japanese festivals. Even so, you will get to learn and experience what festivals were like hundreds of years ago, and specifically the stories from this area in Osaka and what hardships people endured back then. Date: February 20th Time: Starts at 2:00 PM Address: 1 Chome-15-12 Nozato, Nishiyodogawa Ward, Osaka, 555-0024, Japan Website: https://www.osaka-jinjacho.jp/funai_jinja/dai5shibu/nishiyodogawa-ku/05021sumiyoshijinja.html Price: Free While the weather in February may turn people away from travel, Japan holds many opportunities in February that will make you forget the cold. Whether you go for the rich cultural experiences and attractions, the endless energy in the city and people, or some peaceful nature views, Osaka has a little bit of everything for everyone during this time of year while the country transitions to spring. Featured Photo Credit: Stockbym Want to have more fun on your trip to Osaka? Join a culinary tour and discover the city as a local!

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