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

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

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

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

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

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

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!

Arigato Travel

30.01.2025

What to do for This Year’s Setsubun: 2025 | Arigato Travel

With the beginning of the new year, the time has come again to begin the celebrations of Setsubun. If you aren’t familiar with this Japanese tradition, the event falls on the day before spring and is full of festivities. As it divides winter and spring, the literal meaning is season division, hence why it falls on this specific date. The events performed during Setsubun center mainly involve beans, such as the act of mamemaki which is when someone in the family (usually a parent) wears an oni mask and the children throw beans at them to “exorcise” the bad spirits from one’s home. Another common practice involves eating the beans for good luck. All of these activities are special in marking the end of winter and welcoming the new spring season. Activities Available during Setsubun Bean Throwing As briefly mentioned, one commonly performed activity during this time of year is throwing roasted beans out of one’s home, or even at shrines. While doing this, people normally recite “oni wa soto, fuku wa uchi!” to indicate that demons should be sent out of the home, and fortune should be brought in. Wooden boxes full of beans for Setsubun are typically sold at convenience stores in Japan leading up to the day, but you may find them at grocery stores too. You can also find oni masks sold there as well, so make sure to grab one so you can share in the festivities with friends or family. Eating Soybeans After everyone is done throwing the beans for good fortune, now you get to eat them for even more good luck! The tradition is to eat one soybean for each year of your life. Typically, right after throwing the beans you’d pick them up and eat, but you can always buy beans for each separate activity. Enjoy Ehomaki Ehomaki is Setsubun’s traditional dish, an entire sushi roll that is unsliced, and eaten as such. Representing the seven gods of fortune, the roll consists of 7 ingredients. However, the construction of the sushi is not all there is to it, besides this, there are traditions when it comes to ehomaki. One is that you must face the lucky direction of the year while you eat, (this year’s direction being west-southwest) and you must eat the entire thing in silence. Festivals and Events to see during Setsubun Shimokitazawa Tengu Festival If you are looking for a place to enjoy throwing beans with others, the annual huge parade in the lively neighborhood of Shimokitazawa is just the thing for you. During this Setsubun event, the participants dress up as either the crow or the special red tengu and parade the street, allowing parade viewers to throw beans around them and chant “fuku wa uchi!” You’ll also get to see a huge tengu mask rolled down the street, and candy is thrown at attendees all while the participators play loud drums and conch shells for a performance. Despite the at-home tradition allowing you to chant “oni wa soto” that expression is not said at this festival, as the tengu are not the typical type of yokai that you are probably familiar with. These crow-like beings are a different type of Japanese monster that is said to bring luck, disappearing once wishes for fortune are made. Thus, this festival focuses on good fortune for the spring. This festival also has other smaller activities scattered throughout the area, such as a soybean stamp rally where you collect stamps by shopping at certain stores. Once you have enough you can participate in a game that involves earning a prize if you can pour a certain amount of beans into a jar. In addition, you can also purchase beans, and even a Tengu mask at the surrounding small shop stands. Dates: January 31st - February 2nd Time: 31st: Starts at 8:00 PM 1st: 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM 2nd: 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM Price: Free Address: Tokyo, Setagaya, 2 Chome-37-17 Kitazawa, Setagaya City, Tokyo 155-0031, Japan Website: https://shimokita1ban.com/tengufestival93/ Naritasan Fudoson Bean Throwing Festival This festival takes place at one of the biggest temples in Northern Osaka. Due to this temple’s reputation of warding against Oni, Naritasan Fudoson has become a popular shrine for many to gather at to celebrate Setsubun. In fact, being such a popular destination, it's not uncommon to find celebrities at the temple for the morning festivities of throwing beans. If you happen to be close enough to the main stage you may get the chance to catch some of the beans being thrown by the priests. Many bring boxes for a better chance at catching some, so bringing one may be a good idea if that is something you are after. Similar to the Shimokitazawa festival, oni wa soto is not chanted here, so make sure to only wish for fuku wa uchi if you get the chance to attend. Dates: February 2nd Time: Bean throwing event occurs at 11:00 AM and 1:30 PM, 4:00 PM for the sumo event Price: Free Address: 10-1 Narita Nishimachi, Neyagawa, Osaka 572-8528, Japan Website: https://www.naritasan.or.jp/english/ Heian Shrine’s Setsubun Festival Located in Kyoto’s Heian Jingu, this festival is packed with performances to ring in the spring season. The festival begins at 1 PM and starts with priests performing a Shinto ritual, praying, and offering to the gods at the shrine along with purifications. While this festival is a great way to celebrate Setsubun, you will also get to experience Japanese Shintoism culture firsthand. Following the ritual, costumed performers will participate in an exorcism, a practice called Daina no Gi, once held at the Imperial Palace during the Heian period. The performers represent warriors, diviners and oni, all of which will perform a high-energy show. Sometimes the oni performers will try to scare the crowd, making the Heian’s Setsubun Festival interactive and fun! Of course, being a Setsubun celebration, you will eventually see the people who work at the shrine, including the priests, geiko and maiko, throw packets of beans at the oni, and viewers have a chance to catch them if you’re lucky. Unlike the other festivals we mentioned, you can chant oni wa soto along with fuku wa uchi at this festival. At the end of the festival, you can witness a fire ritual held on the main grounds of the temple. Dates: February 3rd Time: 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM Price: Free Address: https://maps.app.goo.gl/SKDhF4yyS8UZqe6m6 Website: https://www.heianjingu.or.jp/language/english.html Welcome the Spring Season with Beans and Fun With mamemaki, roasted bean eating, ehomaki, and various festivals throughout Japan, Setsubun is a time for people of all ages to spend time together. With this blog, we hope to leave you with not only a decent idea of how to celebrate Setsubun, but also some of the best places to join in on all the festivities and fun shaped around leaving the cold winter behind and welcoming the spring. Since the traditions behind Setsubun are very simple to follow, everyone can enjoy and learn a new Japanese celebration whilst casting bad luck out and bringing fortune into their home in a fun new way. Whether you can get your hands on some soybeans and participate by throwing them, or go to a festival and try your luck at catching some beans yourself, the most important part is wishing for good things to come in the springtime whilst still having fun. Feature photo credit: matcha-jp On a trip to Japan during Setsubun? Reach out to our team of experts to build your personalized itinerary!

Arigato Travel

28.01.2025

8 Top Tips for an Amazing 2025 Journey to Japan | Arigato Travel

Japan has infamously been experiencing overtourism as of late, but even with policies like higher prices for foreign tourists, it seems that visitor numbers won’t go down anytime soon. And why would they? With a weak yen and the consistently high numbers of people just plain fascinated by Japan’s culture and media, there’s no stopping the year-round influx of tourists into this small archipelago. However, there are plenty of things you can do to ensure you enjoy your trip and simultaneously ease the burden of over-tourism on you and local society. That’s where the Sustainable Development Goals (or SDGs) come in, which are meant to ensure social and economic prosperity whilst also protecting the environment – everything that tourism has a profound impact on. This might seem like a huge burden to take on, but when we each play our part, even small actions can lead to big changes. When is a better time to start taking those steps than in the new year? If your resolution this year is to visit Japan, why not add these 8 much smaller and easier resolutions to your list on top of it? So let's jump into the list, so you can find out how to make the absolute best of your travels in this beautiful country this year! Travel light Not only does it make it easier when you’re moving from place to place, but it can also help with one of the biggest problems in Japan regarding over-tourism: congestion. Lugging around multiple large suitcases onto the train or bus is exhausting, and you risk taking up precious space that could otherwise be used by potential passengers. So how do you prevent this problem, it’s simple really. Only bring what you truly need and things that would be difficult to get in Japan like personal medication. Remember that most hotels provide toiletries like soaps, towels, and toothbrushes, and if you're staying in an Airbnb or apartment with a washing machine, consider doing laundry and reusing the same clothes to reduce luggage load. That said, you can’t avoid bringing a multitude of things for longer trips, but even then there are more efficient ways to go about it. There’s a wealth of creative packing tips on social media, including ways of folding clothes that would maximize your luggage space. Also consider applying for an airport luggage delivery service like the ones offered by JAL (Japan Airlines), which could deliver your suitcases straight to your accommodation and prevent the aforementioned overcrowding on public transport. Travelling with lighter loads also helps airplanes consume less fuel, thus releasing less carbon dioxide – a key cause of global warming – into the atmosphere. Take public transport – or just walk when you can This shouldn’t be much of a problem in Japan where buses, subways, and train lines stretch to even remote corners of the country. Of course, there might be delays or a long wait time in between trains depending on where you are. But even if you’re in a big city where trains come and go every five minutes, it’s not uncommon to just walk to your next stop, especially if it’s just half an hour or less to the next destination. Walking is much healthier for you and is a surefire way to get all that food down, so your stomach’s ready again for your next culinary adventure. It’s also the best way to get a feel for any place you’re visiting, and you can make any detours you want through side streets and the like that the average tourist might not have the chance to venture. And when you’re too tired of walking all day, you can rent an e-scooter or e-bicycle, which can easily be found and rented throughout urban areas like Tokyo – even if you have no license. But whether you choose to walk, cycle, or ride the bus or train, they’re all more environmentally friendly than riding a taxi or taking an airplane from one side of the country to the next. These are things that, as mentioned before, release the largest amounts of carbon dioxide. So, consider using the Shinkansen with its extensive route options (from Hokkaido all the way to southernmost Kyushu) rather than flying to a different prefecture if possible. Save energy We might be extremely calculating with electricity bills in our own homes, but often that consideration goes out the window when we’re staying somewhere else. Remember though, a hotel or inn is still home to plenty of others, and, as guests, we should make sure to use only as much as is needed. Turn off the lights when you’re not in the room, turn off the tap when you’re not using it, and try to take showers instead of baths to consume less water. Whatever we take from the resources of another place is what will be left for the people who live there, and many resources take very long to replenish, if at all. Learn the local language You don’t need to be fluent in the language of every destination you visit, but it still helps to know essential phrases that’ll smoothen things out when you’re at the cashier of a convenience store, for example. It’ll save both sides some time and can be seen as a sign of respect because at least you’ve made some effort to learn how to communicate with the local people. No one wants to study during their vacation, but why not look up some common, everyday words while you’re researching those must-visit spots? Learn the etiquette Because of the weak yen, there have been many tourists who come to Japan only to shop, with little interest in or consideration of its unique culture. This includes learning about and respecting local manners, which are especially important to the people of Japan. Not to mention, the numerous reports of rude tourists who disobey safety rules and make locals uncomfortable by crowding around viral photo spots. Again, vacationing in another country means that you’re a guest, and it’s important to respect both the people and the culture who’ve welcomed you into their home. Small actions like remembering to stay quiet in a crowded train, not blocking other people’s way in a crowded passageway, and throwing garbage where it belongs do exactly that. Just get lost It can be daunting to turn off Google Maps and venture outside tried-and-proven paths for a change, but this resolution isn’t exactly asking you to go into shady alleyways or dense forests in the countryside with no Internet connection. Being safe and adventurous can go hand-in-hand, and Japan’s cities might be the best place for that with its high security and widespread transportation network. So why not try getting on a train and stopping at a random station, then walk around and venture into any shop or restaurant that catches your eye? You might be surprised at the things you’ll get to see and experience, and there’s always that option of opening Google Maps for directions back to your hotel when you’ve felt lost enough for one day. It’s not exactly the full, off-the-beaten-path experience, but when you’ve been to a place multiple times, the next step is finding those hidden spots that you would’ve overlooked if you hadn't put down your phone and paid attention to your surroundings. Visit lesser-known areas Overtourism is not actually a problem throughout all of Japan, but only found in popular cities like Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka. If you’re a first-timer, it feels like a must to visit these iconic areas first and foremost, but there are plenty of other beautiful prefectures with just as much to offer minus the overwhelming crowds. One example is Suruga in Shizuoka Prefecture, an underrated destination known for its natural beauty and long-established tea culture. On top of the rare and unique experience you’ll get out of it, you’ll also be contributing to the local economy, creating job opportunities and generating revenue in less affluent parts of the country. You can bet that the environment in typically popular areas would be protected too, as fewer tourists usually means less littering. With more revenue going into lesser-known destinations, there would be better infrastructure to ensure those natural wonders and cultural heritage sites would be appreciated by travelers for many years to come. Support small businesses This resolution is related to the previous in that supporting small businesses rather than chain stores will contribute directly to the local economy. So, instead of visiting a McDonalds that you can probably find at home, why not try out that hole-in-the-wall restaurant serving authentic, homemade Japanese food the next street over? Chances are it’ll still taste different from the meals offered by other Japanese restaurants and you might be directly contributing to the economy of the family running it for generations on end. The food is likely to be less processed and uses a lot of organic, locally-grown produce, again leading to less energy consumption and carbon emissions. Besides, what better way to fully experience a town’s culture than through its cuisine? The same goes for stores selling handmade arts & crafts. On top of offering you an expertly crafted, one-of-a-kind souvenir for an affordable price, you’ll be actively contributing to the preservation of Japan’s traditional arts. Long-running shops and restaurants often have distinct characteristics to them, making it a shame if they’re no longer a part of the cultural landscape of its town or city. From scouring local gems instead of the usual tourist hotspot to paying more attention to the impact you have on local environments, there are plenty of ways to maximize your tourist experience but also the continued welfare of your destinations. Places are just like flowers; they might be stronger than they look, but when you keep handing them to other people, there’s bound to be some petals lost on the way. The new year is a chance to start anew, so let’s make sure to breathe new life into every place we visit, by planting new flowers but also retaining the beauty of the ones planted long ago. So, in addition to starting the new year correctly, let’s make sure we travel right and make sure everyone has the time of their lives in Japan this year. Featured Photo Credit: Bokksu official website Now that you have a few ideas on how to enjoy your trip to Japan, reach out to our Expert Travel Specialists to curate a sustainable, personalized itinerary!

Arigato Travel

23.01.2025

Japan’s New Preclearance System for Travellers for 2025 | Arigato Travel

International travel to Japan has increased for the past few years following the country’s decision to reopen the borders in 2022 due to the pandemic, lessening travel restrictions, and the weakening value of the Japanese Yen. Coming from 4.5 million tourists in a year in 2020, to an astounding 26 million international tourists in 2024, about 3 million tourists a month, Japan has been finding ways to make travel easier to the country. One of these systems is a preclearance system, designed to make the arrival process easier and less stressful for foreign visitors. What is the Preclearance System? As many may already be aware, after you have arrived in Japan from an international flight, the standard was that the airport requires you to fill out customs declaration forms, take a photograph, and fingerprint for identification. This form needs a variety of information, and it can be difficult to know where to get the form or where to fill it out, especially for first-timers. On top of that, the line for photograph and fingerprint scanning eats up a lot of time for arrivals. Thanks to the preclearance system, while waiting for your international flight in departures, you can fill out these forms and take these photographs and scans way ahead of time, save yourself the hassle and stress when you arrive, avoid the long lines, and overall reduce the time needed for arrival procedures. As of now, Haneda International Airport has kiosks in place for customs and immigration, but starting in early 2025, other airports such as Narita and Kansai’s international airports will receive the same systems, allowing easier arrival to a wider sphere of airports in the country. Who gets first access to preclearance? As this new system is still fresh, it has only one country that can take advantage of this new arrival process. As of January 2025, Taiwan is the only country as of now who can participate in finishing arrival documents and procedures in advance. Every other country among the 71 countries and territories will be able to enter Japan with a new required electronic documentation. This is the ETA (electronic travel authorization) that will be launched in addition to the aforementioned system in 2025 but arrival procedures will still be quite long when compared to the preclearance system. As bigger waves of tourism hit Japan, many are facing long lines at arrivals, lengthening the amount of time it takes to enter the country. For all sorts of reasons such as wellness tourism, the weakened yen allowing for affordability, rich culture and history, and popular spots such as Mount Fuji, it is no doubt that Japan has been met with consecutive 3 million visitors each month last year. Many tourists report repeating trips to Japan, but preclearance could allow new and past tourists to come to Japan smoothly, and encourage them to come back, or just leave them with a good impression on the airport procedures. While other countries will not be able to take part in these yet, there’s no doubt that they will soon be able to join Taiwan in this system for their travels too. Featured Photo Credit: Asahi If you qualify for this preclearance and are coming to Japan, why not come see us? Book your local guide to learn more about Japanese food and culture.

Arigato Travel

21.01.2025

Daruma Burning Ceremonies: Winter Purification Traditions in Japan | Arigato Travel

The Daruma doll is a well-known Japanese symbol of resilience and good fortune. Inspired by Bodhidharma, the founder of Zen Buddhism, these round, hollow dolls are rich in symbolism and often gifted as a gesture of encouragement. Beyond their role as good luck charms, Daruma dolls are linked to goal-setting and are traditionally burned come the new year to honor and release their spirit, marking gratitude and renewal for the year ahead. What Are Daruma Dolls? This doll, shaped like a sphere with a weighted bottom, originated from Takasaki in the Shorinzan Daruma Temple. Originally, Darumas were created as New Year’s charms, designed to attract good luck and prevent the bad for the coming year. The art of creating Daruma dolls started when the ninth priest, Togaku, decided that he wanted to include the parishioners in making their own charms. In due course, it began to symbolize tenacity and good fortune in winning over and surpassing adversities. The saying

Arigato Travel

17.01.2025

Shakotan Spirit: Fire-Infused Gin from Hokkaido’s Volcanic Shores | Arigato Travel

On the west coast of Hokkaidō, the Shakotan Peninsula has stunning crystal-clear waters and reefs, offering a breathtaking view of the Sea of Japan. On this peninsula, visitors can also find Shakotan Spirit, a craft gin distillery! Shakotan Spirit not only produces distilled liquor inspired by the sea but also serves as a way to give courage and hope to its community and beyond. Arigato Travel has had the great pleasure of interviewing Shion Bechtol, the manager of Shakotan Spirit, to delve into the heart of this distillery. Join us as we explore the story behind Shakotan Gin and uncover the passion and dedication that goes into crafting each bottle! Hello! Can you please introduce yourself? I’m Shion Bechtol from Japan. I used to work as a beauty advisor in Obihiro before moving to Shakotan. My husband already lived in Shakotan and, since we wanted to live together, I started looking for a job in the area. I ultimately ended up getting an offer from Shakotan Spirit. Fortunately, I liked their drinks and the botanicals, and I also have experience working with farmers, so I was more than happy to start working here. Now, after working for the company for 4 seasons, I’ve happily and fortunately risen to the position of manager. My work is to make people happy. It doesn’t matter whether employees or customers, I make every person happy by using our Gin and our botanicals, which I also grow myself. When I work, I make a habit of keeping in mind to “smile” and be “happy”. Because I think if I’m not happy when I work, I can’t make people happy and I can’t produce good products. Sometimes it isn’t easy to keep doing that, but I love what I do for a living now. I’m so happy to work here, and I’ll do my best every single day! Can you tell us about the origins of Shakotan Spirit, and how the idea of creating a gin distillery on the Shakotan Peninsula came to be? The Shakotan peninsula’s vegetation is similar to Scotland's. The mountains and the ocean are close to each other, and many botanicals grow in a small area, making it a unique location and the perfect spot for a distillery. There are a lot of botanicals used in the Gin created in Shakotan. In fact, the abundance of “Chinese juniper” was one of the deciding factors in opening the distillery here. This is the most important reason why we started to distill Gin here. “Chinese Juniper” is a kind of Juniper berry, so we thought we could create a Gin made by using only the botanicals found within Japan instead of importing them. This results in Gin that is not only distilled but also completely made in Japan from start to finish. Today, however, we only use the Chinese Juniper in our UMI Gin, as it isn't easy to pick them as they only grow right next to cliffs, not to mention they're really rare. So we hope the Chinese Juniper we have started to grow in our garden will bear a lot of berries that we can use in the future. Shakotan Spirit’s concept mentions “extracting the vitality of plants by ‘fire.’” Could you explain what this process looks like and how it impacts the taste of the gin? Shakotan is associated with fire. In fact, there is a traditional and famous fire festival here. Gin is a kind of “burning alcohol” and “burning spirit”, and in Japanese, fire is known as “Hi.” Thus we use fire to distill Gin here. In particular, we use two stills. The first is made of copper and comes from Germany. This is the traditional type and how we distill Shakotan Dry Gin. The second is the vacuum type still, which we use for our drinks made from botanicals. It functions at a lower temperature than copper, which prevents overheating of the botanicals, allowing us to distill our fresh botanical spirits. Then we blend the Shakotan Dry Gin together with some of the botanical spirits to make one bottle of our amazing Gin, such as KIBOU. Thus if you drink KIBOU, you will feel like you’ve taken a “walk in the forest.” The second part of our process is represented by the sail of the ship, which we call “Ho” in Japanese. And so the “Hi” spirit sails on the sea of Shakotan. This is our company logo concept, “Extracting the vitality of plants by fire” means “distillation”. Shakotan Spirit’s botanical collection has a vast number of plants that are unique to the Peninsula. Could you talk about a few of the plants and how they inspire gin flavors? I want to tell you about the “Sakhalin Spruce”, “Yezo Japanese Rose” and “Japanese Magnolia”. First, “Sakhalin Spruce” is a representative tree of Hokkaido. The indigenous Ainu called it “the goddess in the forest” when they saw it in the winter, due to the leaves not falling off in winter like other trees. We use only sprouts from this tree as ingredients, and it smells like strawberry and/or orange. We pick these sprouts for a few weeks in June and use them in KIBOU, which leads to the drink's fruity taste. “Yezo Japanese Rose” is also a representative flower of Hokkaido. We pick only the petals and use them in our “HAMANASU” Gin liqueur. The Yezo Japanese Rose has an elegant smell. It is said that if women drink it, they become completely relaxed and it is also said to balance hormones. And it’s really good taste on vanilla ice cream. Last is the “Japanese Magnolia,” which, interestingly enough, smells like coke. The Indigenous Ainu called it the “Shikerepe,” meaning “good aroma tree”. We use them in KIBOU Gin when we change it to smell like Japanese dashi. It also helps increase the nutritional effects of other botanicals. You recently released a new product — KIBOU seabed aging, and it has already sold out! What influenced the taste and story of this gin? As you might have already guessed KIBOU Gin is made in Shakotan and uses the local botannicals. We wanted to do a Shakotan Mountain and Shakotan Sea collaboration, so KIBOU Gin is the bottled blessing of nature which is then aged in the Shakotan Sea. We think this results in the best of the local nature and sea mixed together in one bottle. This is an absolutely great combo for taste and story. Our bottles spend 400 days under the sea, and the Shakotan Sea makes a lot of waves, both big and small. I am sure if you drink this bottle, it will not only have a smooth taste but is also a little sweeter than normal KIBOU. There is a chance to be a SHAKOTAN Kaimori Member! Could you explain the individual member benefits included in this membership? Is this membership available to those outside of Japan? Our Umimori membership is so everyone can join us! If you don’t live in Japan, you can still join us. But as of now, our Umimori website is only available in Japanese. If you join us, then we will give you a 100ml bottle of “KIBOU” Gin, but we are unfortunately only able to send it to those in Japan. So when you come to see us at “Distillery Blue,” we can give you your bottle. Other member benefits are that you can use the Umimori studio and that you are privy to special coupons we organize three times a year. Also, you will be able to know our event and new product information earlier than anybody! Finally, we have a company-type membership available for businesses. I truly hope that you’ll check out our Umimori website and consider signing up! At Arigato Travel, we’re always on the lookout for exciting food pairings! Could you share some of your favorite foods to pair with Japanese gin and craft gin? We believe that food uses many spices and Gin is always a good combo for all of them! In Japan, curry and rice are the best foods to pair with Gin. Another particular drink I would like to suggest is the Gin “Bouquet”. This is a really good combo with sweets. And whilst chocolate and cookies are great options, I like to enjoy a slice of cake with this gin the most. The Bouquet has a floral taste making it similar to a Sabalan. Also, you can enjoy it with any tea, just add one teaspoon to your favorite tea, giving it a gorgeous smell and increasing the relaxation of the beverage. Gin liquor “HAMANASU” has an elegant rose smell and tastes sweet, making it really good with ice cream! I mentioned earlier about a special combo in Japan. Our Gin “Umi” tastes a little salty, provoking thoughts of the Shakotan sea. So I recommend you try it with Sashimi (raw fish). This is really good and you can try it only in Hokkaido, Japan. Last is KIBOU, which I highly recommend you drink in the forest, at a camp with your friends whilst sitting around the campfire. You will feel like a part of nature when you drink it outside. If you like sweetness, I hope you try this style: add a teaspoon of KIBOU to a cup of coco. It tastes just like chocolate mint. I hope you get a chance to try all of these pairs I have suggested and create the best memories of your life with our dinks. Are there any exciting plans or projects on the horizon for Shakotan Spirit as you look to the future? Is there anything else you would like to share with our readers? We already started one of our plans: the “Farmers High” and the “Distillers Cut” series. Both series use interesting botanicals that our employees have been looking forward to using in our drinks. This time the Farmers High is a “Japanese big leaf magnolia”. We use only their flowers, which bloom for 3 days and also have a strong scent at the time of blooming. These points make it one of the most difficult to pick botanicals. The Distillers Cut uses Japanese white birch sap. First, we distill them, then add sap before the final distilling. I just want to tell you how much we stick to distilling and blending our Gin! We are constantly trying to distill botanicals that no one else uses, which we plan to continue long into the future. We hope you’ll be looking forward to all of our current and future creations. And if you come to Japan, please visit us! Thank you so much for taking the time to be interviewed! We truly appreciated learning all about the Shakotan Spirit! Shakotan Spirit: https://shakotan-spirit.co.jp/ Distillery Shakotan Blue: https://shakotan-blue.jp/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/distillery_shakotan_blue Featured Photo Credit: Shakotan Spirit Want to learn more about Japanese drinking culture on your visit here? Join our Luxury Cocktail, Sake, and Whisky tours in Tokyo or Kyoto on your next trip!

Arigato Travel

16.01.2025

10 Cherry Blossom Varieties Not to Miss in Japan | Arigato Travel

One of the most anticipated sights in Japan is the annual arrival of the cherry blossoms – or sakura – each spring. Sakura are Japan’s unofficial national flower and hold a special place in Japanese culture. These delicate blossoms come in tons of different colors including white, shades of pink, and even yellow, and make their fleeting appearance each year from late winter to early spring. There are over 200 varieties of cherry blossoms and here are 10 of the loveliest. Somei Yoshino This species is one of the most common and most popular and can be found throughout Japan. The Somei Yoshino is known for its light fragrance and its pale pink flowers, so subtle that they almost appear white. Americans might recognize this sakura as one of the varieties that were gifted to the US by Japan and blooms each year around the Tidal Basin in Washington DC. This variety peaks in mid-April in Tokyo. Shidarezakura The Shidarezakura, or “Weeping Cherry” variety, gets its name from its distinctive dropping branches that resemble a weeping willow. The flowers cascade into blossoms of a rosy pink, which symbolize spring’s promise of rebirth. These uniquely beautiful trees, blooming in late March to early April, are one of the oldest varieties. The Miharu Takizakura tree, dedicated as a National Monument in 1922, attracts thousands of visitors to Fukushima each spring and is believed to be over 1000 years old. Kikuzakura This variety is named after the chrysanthemum, or kiku, for its resemblance to Japan’s beloved flower. Each puffy blossom can hold almost 150 pale pink petals. The Kikuzakura is one of the latest blooming types, and visitors to Tokyo can often take in these striking trees as late as early May. Kawazuzakura The Kawazuzakura is actually a wild variety, as opposed to the cultivated varieties such as the Somei Yoshino. Itakes its name from the town of Kawazu on the Izu Peninsula, which hosts nearly two million visitors at its annual Kawazu cherry blossom festival from late February to early March. As the timing of the festival suggests, this is one of the earliest blooming species, opening early in February and peaking during the annual festival. Ichiyo The Ichiyo or “one leaf” sakura is named for the single pistil in the center of the blossom that resembles a leaf. This flower actually has two sets of petals, and the large flowers are found in groupings of three or four. The leaves were once used in a special cherry-flavored drink. Today, a good spot to view these lovely trees as they peak in mid-April is at the Imperial Palace East Gardens. There are about 20 ichiyo nestled among other more common varieties. Kanhizakura This variety is known for its characteristic bell-shaped flowers and its deep fuchsia petals. The Kanhizkaura can be found throughout Japan but it is most common in the Ryuku Islands, where it is the symbol of the City of Nago on Okinawa. In Tokyo, these bloom in March, but in the warmer Southern climate of Okinawa, these blossoms can open as early as January. You can see these trees at the Nago Cherry Blossom Festival in January of each year or at Inokashira Park in Tokyo. The blossoms on this hardy variety can last as long as a month. Ukonzakura One of the more rare finds in Japan, this unusual variety can be spotted at the Koishekawa Botanical Gardens in Tokyo. The Ukon sakura are not the typical pink of other varieties and can easily be recognized by its distinctive petals, which range in color from a pale yellow. This variety takes its name from the Japanese word for the orange-yellow spice turmeric, said to be a perfect cure for hangovers! Petals on this blossom, which peaks in mid-April in Tokyo, number about 15 petals per flower. Okame Known for its small size, this variety of sakura is very popular to keep in places like yards and home gardens and can also be found lining city streets in Tokyo. Named for the Japanese goddess of good fortune, this variety was actually hybridized by a British botanist, who hoped to create a small, sturdy variety from two wild species. The results were this early-blooming flowers with multi-colored leaves in pale to vibrant pink. Fugenzou Blooming with petal counts ranging from 25 to 50 per flower, this sakura’s name contains the kanji for Samantabhadra or Fugen, a Buddhist bodhisattva and Zou, the white elephant that he is often depicted with. It is said that the petals of the flowers resemble an elephant’s ears, hence the name. This variety is one of the oldest, dating back to at least the 15th century. Edohigan Among the earliest to bloom, this sakura borrows its name from the Japanese spring equinox, called Higan. When the blossoms appear in mid-March to early April, they are a vibrant pink, but then turn white before fluttering to the ground, symbolizing the briefness of life. Because of its resistance to snow and wind damage, Edohigan live longer than most varieties. The 2000-year-old Edohigan in Yamanashi is Japan’s oldest tree. They are a majestic sight each year throughout Japan. Do as the locals do: pack a picnic and enjoy hanami, or the traditional Japanese custom of “flower viewing.” Cherry blossoms are a must-see for visitors to Japan…but don’t miss it! This seasonal spectacle is only around for a few days each spring. Join us on our Cherry Blossom Tours to explore how Sakura has such a significant influence on Japanese culture!

Arigato Travel

15.01.2025

Cherry Blossom Forecast 2025: Catch the Early Blooming Dates for the Sakura Season This Year! | Arigato Travel

It’s that time of the year again! Meteorology companies across Japan, including the Japan Meteorological Agency, have begun releasing their first forecasts for the cherry blossoms of this year. Hanami viewing has always had a very special place in the hearts of the Japanese people while also proving to be extremely popular amongst tourists and foreign residents. This year is certainly no different, with many people tuning in to the currently developing cherry blossom forecast, and we also couldn’t help but jump on the train. Being a seasonal flower, the cherry blossom trees will typically begin to bloom as the weather starts to warm up. This results in the blooming starting in the south and moving north, signifying the beginning of Spring for Japan along the way. Following this, the sakura trees continue to bloom, with full bloom typically occurring a week or two after the appearance of the first flowers. This year, following this trend, the first openings for most areas are set to begin in the last weeks of March, with full bloom happening in early April. Although due to the warmer-than-usual weather this year, some may start a bit earlier than we would normally expect! Japan’s major cities are top picks for Hanami every year and this year should be no different, so we made sure to jot down the estimated dates for each city so you know what to expect. It looks like Tokyo will actually be one of the first cities to open this year, and it's estimated to begin on March 24th with full bloom set to follow 7 days later on March 31st. Similarly, Fukuoka is projected to match Tokyo’s full bloom date, but the estimated first flowering is predicted to arrive earlier on March 22nd. Following this is Kagoshima, with the two major dates said to happen on March 22nd and April 2nd. Kyoto, another major top spot for Hanami, is estimated to begin on March 27th and is meant to reach full bloom 8 days later on April 4th. Osaka–

Arigato Travel

12.01.2025

The Power Of Cherry Blossoms in Japanese Skincare Routines | Arigato Travel

Cherry blossoms have always held a special place in Japanese culture. Each year, a traditional event known as hanami, or

Arigato Travel

10.01.2025

All You Need to Know Before Attending Sumo | Arigato Travel

Sumo is a sports competition between two rikishi (wrestlers). It takes place at the dohyo, which is a circular platform formed by partially buried rice straw bales 4.55 meters in diameter and is covered in sand. In order to win the match, the rikishi has to push or throw the opponent out the dohyo or force the opponent’s body part, other than the feet, to touch the floor. Unlike other sports, sumo does not classify the match based on the weight or height of the player, so it is common to see a huge size difference between the two opponents. History In the two oldest Japanese history books, Kojiki and Nihon Shoki, they talk about the myth of two rikishi competing to see who was strongest in power. Today, this legend is considered to be the origin of sumo wrestling. During the period when agriculture was the main producer for the country, sumo was performed as a ritual to pray for good harvest. It later became a court ceremony and remained this way for about 300 years. Moving to the Karamura and Sengoku periods when samurai were active in politics, the sport became a form of battle training used by the samurai. Later in the Edo period, Sumo finally became the entertainment activity it is today among the public and a popular subject for ukiyo-e paintings. All in all, this long and extensive history just shows how much of a significant role this unique form of wrestling has played in the history and evolution of Japanese culture. Rikishi Hairstyle and Mawashi The rikishi are ranked based on the result of official games hosted by the Japan Sumo Association. This ranking is called banzuke and ultimately decides the mawashi (loincloth) style and hairstyle the wrestlers can wear during their fights. There are a total of 10 ranks that can be obtained. Rikishi has to rank above juryo to be considered a professional player to compete in the makuuchi division, and to do their hair in ooichō style. Also, the higher the rank, the fancier the mawashi that a participant wears. How To Buy Tickets Sumo competitions are hosted in January, March, May, July, September, and November by the Japan Sumo Association. For January, May, and September, the matches take place in Tokyo; for March, it can be found in Osaka; for July, it will be located in Nagoya; for November, it is found in Fukuoka. All of the separate competitions lasts for 15 days each month. The first day of the competition is called shonichi, and the last day is called senshuraku. The tickets can be purchased through several platforms, including the official website of the Japan Sumo Association, Seven-Eleven, the box office, and by telephone. The price of the tickets is classified based on the distance from the dohyo. The closer the seat is, the more expensive the ticket. The floor level will have cushioned floor seats, and the second floor will be theater chair style. The tickets are available to be purchased about 4 to 7 weeks prior to the shonichi each month. It can sell out really fast, so it is recommended to purchase the tickets as early as possible. The ticket-selling schedule varies each month, make sure to check out the official website of the Japan Sumo Association for specific dates. The position of the audience plays a significant role in sumo. The four positions in the kokugikan (arena) are main, opposite, east, and west. They are labeled with a ribbon hanging down from the roof. During the game, the rikishi each stands in the east and the west, and the referee stands in the opposite. As a pre-game ritual, the wrestlers would perform shiko, where they stomp their feet in the direction of southwest and southeast. These two directions will be sprinkled with salt and water to purify the arena. The act of stomping their feet is believed to drive away evil spirits. At the venue, you can also get food and drink, and, of course, purchase merch! Sumo is deeply ingrained in Japanese culture throughout history. Even nowadays, it is still a popular sport among the public, and rikishi holds high social status in society as well. You can also see sumo cartoon characters on a variety of products. If you are interested in Japanese culture, this is something you would not want to miss. Make sure to look up the season on the official website of the Japan Sumo Association, and have chankonabe (sumo hotpot) after watching a match! Coming to Japan to see a Sumo match? Reach out to our team of experts to personalize your itinerary and make sure you have the perfect trip.

Arigato Travel

09.01.2025

Kimono Couture – Where Traditional Japan Meets Modern-Day Chic! | Arigato Travel

Today we’re going to delve into the intricate Japanese craftsmanship that combines tradition and modern chic! We're thrilled to chat with the face behind Koubou-Kina; Keiko Miura-san, who was kind enough to have us join her Drawstring bag workshop recently! Keiko san is a masterful artisan on a unique journey into the world of Japanese fashion. Her passion for reviving antique obi and kimono fabrics into modern fashion pieces is truly remarkable. So, let's get ready to be inspired by her creative ideas and the colorful wonders she brings to life! Hi Keiko san! Can you please introduce yourself to our readers? Hello! My name is Keiko Muira and I’m from Tokyo. After graduating from a fashion college, I worked as a pattern maker for high-end women’s wear. Then, after this, I began working for a foreign finance company as well as a Chinese company located in Japan before establishing lily LLC in 2012. Can you explain to us what the inspiration behind Koubo-Kina is? As the Japanese lifestyle has become increasingly Westernized, people are no longer wearing kimonos on a daily basis. In addition to this, they are no longer utilizing the kimonos inherited from their grandparents. As a result, they are being disposed of, leading to an increase in air pollution. This has also resulted in it becoming difficult to preserve traditional crafts related to the creation of kimonos. I started Koubou-Kina in the hope of finding a solution to these problems. What inspired you to start a remodeling brand blending both traditional materials and modern style fashion? I thought that by remodeling kimonos, a traditional Japanese craft, in a way that suits the modern lifestyle, I could make use of the many kimonos that were about to be discarded and forgotten. We were lucky enough to have joined your drawstring bag workshop! How would you describe the remodeling process for those who may be interested in joining? What makes your workshop special? By choosing the fabrics and items to be used the day before the workshop, participants are able to finish making their creations in about an hour and even take them home with them. I love being able to offer the opportunity for visitors from overseas to actually touch and feel the fabric of the kimono, created through a treasured and traditional craft of Japan, as much as they possibly can. How do you pick up/choose the Kimonos you use during your workshop sessions? To be honest, this varies considerably, from buying a nice kimono I’ve found, to when a customer gives me a kimono originally from their grandparents for me to utilize. We can see you cover a venture of products from bags to wedding dresses! What was the most extraordinary request you’ve had from a customer? The greatest customer experience I have is when each and every one of them is looking at the product with a huge smile on their face, holding it happily in their hands, and receiving the memory of that kimono in their hearts. Their smile is what makes me happy. Your shop is located close to Nishikoyama station, which is an unknown area for travelers! Why there? Do you have any restaurants or shops you would like to recommend to people who want to explore around? Nishikoyama is a very traditional small town. The people living here cherish the connections among each other and the various events held in the neighborhood. All restaurants are small, and you are sure to enjoy interacting with the locals. Last but not least, looking ahead, what do you envision for your business, and what message would you like to share with our readers about your journey and unique offerings? In the future, I plan to offer not only purse, bow tie, and obi object-making services but also tea ceremony and kimono dressing classes. I’d also like to begin a professional photo and short movie service with the kimonos set in an old private home. I plan to promote the beauty of the valued and traditional art that is the kimono to everyone, including those overseas. As we conclude our time spent here with Keiko san, we would like to extend our heartfelt gratitude to her for allowing us the opportunity to delve deeper into her personal journey into the world of art and fashion. Keiko-san's effort at preserving Japanese tradition in modern fashion is truly a unique offering and we sincerely encourage our readers to seize the chance to explore Keiko-san’s world firsthand! If you ever find yourself in Japan, don’t miss the opportunity to join some of her exclusive workshops! Definitely a wonderful and very recommended experience in Japanese tapestry. Follow Keiko Miura san ‘Koubou-Kina’’ on: Website: http://www.koubou-kina.com Instagram: kouboukina Facebook: koubou.kina X: @koubou_kina Featured Photo Credit: Polina Nasedkina Join us on the Asakusa Twilight Food Tour to see the historic neighborhood in a new light!

Arigato Travel

02.01.2025

The Unique Story Behind Restaurant SOWER | Arigato Travel

Located on the shore of Lake Biwa, Restaurant SOWER is the place to go for an amazing dinner. Their seasonally changing menu is always delicious, as their ingredients are locally sourced from the region. Every staff member is dedicated to making sure that all guests have a great dining experience! And recently, in addition to dinner, SOWER has installed a bar so you can now grab a drink before and/or after your incredible feast. The interview below tells us all the insights of this unique restaurant! Thank you for doing this interview. First, please tell us a little about yourself and your role within Restaurant SOWER. Thanks for taking an interest in our restaurant. My name is Coleman Griffin. I grew up in the Los Angeles area and spent the bulk of my career cooking in restaurants in California, most of which I spent in fine-dining restaurants. In 2019, I came to Tokyo to work at a restaurant called INUA. Unfortunately, during COVID, this restaurant closed down. Because of that, I was able to take over the role of chef here at SOWER. I have been here since 2021. Can you give a brief overview of the story of Restaurant SOWER: Why did it start and what is its mission? The restaurant's main idea was born from reinvestment by the owners. They are always looking for ways to revitalize the community. Our mission is listed as 7 policies below: Unravel the history and food culture of Kohoku and Lake Biwa. Work together with local businesses and producers. Promote the local handicrafts of Kohoku, Omi, Shigaraki, and Echizen. Take action to safeguard the resources of Lake Biwa and its surrounding area. Create a menu that expresses a clear sense of time and place. Provide fulfilling opportunities for our staff. Avoid categorizing ourselves - strive to be innovative and free thinking. What makes SOWER different from other restaurants? I think that SOWER is different from other restaurants in Japan because we have a multicultural staff. This allows us to provide food and service that has a different personality than most traditional restaurants. We are always thinking about how we can craft an experience that gives both Japanese and non-Japanese guests something special. For example, we spent lots of time and energy crafting our non-alcoholic beverage selection, which can be ordered a la carte or paired with your meal. It's these offerings that really set us apart from others. The restaurant is located on the northern shore of Lake Biwa, how does this location influence the cuisine? Since the restaurant is in the Northern basin of Lake Biwa, its proximity to both the ocean (the Sea of Japan) and the mountain allows us the opportunity to use a wide range of ingredients. For example, on our current menu, we feature wakasagi from Biwako and buri from the Sea of Japan. It allows guests a chance to try a wide variety of local ingredients that are hard to find elsewhere. We offer exclusive dishes highlighting products from the lake, sea, and mountains. Whilst reinterpreting the history and food culture of Kohoku and Northern Lake Biwa, and due to this our dishes often take influence from Japanese, French, and Nordic cuisine. Are there any of your dishes made from the local ingredients that you serve at the restaurant that you would specifically recommend? We stand by and recommend all of our dishes. Since we offer a tasting menu, there is not so much choice. But because of this, we can craft a special experience. Guests can come to the restaurant and know that we are going to create the best possible experience for them based on the season. We are always hunting for new ingredients and refining our techniques so that we can recommend the entire menu confidently. Please come and join us to see! What are the most important elements for the best guest experience? The most important elements for the guest experience are omotenashi and food. We try our best to create an environment where all of our guests can feel comfortable. To do this, we must consider all aspects of the experience: lighting, music, decor, temperature of the room, the comfort of the chair, design, etc. There are many points to consider, and the same mentality applies to food. We are always striving to be the best we can and provide a high-level experience for our guests. What do you see as being the future for Restaurant SOWER? It is our goal to continue to work in a way that provides a special experience for the guests and a healthy workplace. We are also working to continue to refine how we acquire products so that we can continue to benefit the community and improve the quality. One of our goals this year is to start a garden on our property so that we can offer more fresh herbs. There is always something to improve! As the Japanese say… kaizen! We would like to thank you for this exclusive interview. We got a great insight into this amazing place! If you are looking for an amazing restaurant around Lake Biwa, make sure to check them out. With their always-changing menu and great local ingredients, they are a must-visit when you are in the area! Follow Restaurant SOWER on: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/restaurant_sower/?igshid=YmMyMTA2M2Y%3D Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/restaurantsower Featured Photo Credit: Restaurant SOWER Book our Travel Planning Services for all your trip needs as well as introductions to many more extraordinary restaurants!

Arigato Travel

30.12.2024

Things to Do in Osaka in January 2025 | Arigato Travel

A new year has begun, and what better way to celebrate than taking a trip to Japan, especially Osaka? While the past December may have seemed like the peak for holiday celebrations in the country, do not underestimate the January season, full of New Year’s welcomings, cultural opportunities, and fun everywhere. While some countries may not see much importance in the first month of the year, for Japan the entire month is an opportunity for shrine visiting, wish making, enjoying delicious food with family and friends, with everyone positive for the fresh start of a new year. While Osaka will still be chilly this time of year, seeing the area decorated with New Year’s banners and other decor, on top of the various culturally rich festivals and experiences you’ll get to be a part of, weather won’t be an issue. Whether you are looking forward to New Year’s celebrations, curious about the cultural differences around this holiday, or just some general fun activities and food available in Osaka in January, this blog is for you! Hatsumode Hatsumode, the first shrine visit of the New Year, is a very important and widely celebrated holiday in Japan, and you’ll have plenty of opportunities in Osaka to participate. As these visits are meant to pray for peace and other good things to come this new year, taking the trip to a nearby shrine or a popular one (though the lines may be longer) may be worth the trip if you want to make wishes for the New Year and experience an important part of Japanese culture! While you’re there, you can also enjoy pulling omikuji to see what your fortune will be and even buy amulets or omamori to put towards any wishes you have. Whether that be for studying, getting accepted into a college or success in school, winning a sports game, and so much more! Many make these trips during the first three days of January as a way to pray and make wishes for the new year, but since shrine visits are a great way to experience Japanese culture, you can still use any of the following recommendations if you simply want to visit one during your trip. Just be aware that you may miss out on certain practices and rituals done at these shrines, which are performed only on those three days. Shrine Suggestions: Sumiyoshi Taisha Location: 2 Chome-9-89 Sumiyoshi, Sumiyoshi Ward, Osaka, 558-0045, Japan Opening Hours: 7 days a week, 6 am - 5 pm Price: Free Website: https://www.sumiyoshitaisha.net/ Osaka Tenmangu Location: 2 Chome-1-8 Tenjinbashi, Kita Ward, Osaka, 530-0041, Japan Opening Hours: 7 days a week, 5:30 am - 6:30 pm Price: Free Website: https://osakatemmangu.or.jp/ Shitenoji Location: 1 Chome-11-18 Shitennoji, Tennoji Ward, Osaka, 543-0051, Japan Opening Hours: 7 days a week, 8:30 am - 4:30 pm Price: Varies depending on individual and area (check official website for price table) Website: https://www.shitennoji.or.jp/ Dates: January 1st - January 3rd Senbon Mochitsukisa At a Buddhist temple called Mizumadera, there is a mochitsuki (mochi pounding) festival at the beginning of every year. This is an integral part of Hoyo, which is the process temples go through to prepare for the new year, contrasting with hatsumode at Shinto shrines. Coming from the legend of a Buddhist monk, Gyoki, who was searching for the Kannon Bodhisattva, he had sixteen boys pound mochi as offerings for the deity of the temple. Thus, at this festival, sixteen boys, all holding mochi mallets, take turns hitting mochi in a wooden barrel to keep it soft and malleable for making mochi cakes. The reason why so many come to witness this mochitsuki is that these boys are skilled at what they do, and it will feel like a show just from watching. The sounds of the rhythmic mallet pounding and the sight of the mochi being thrown toward the ceiling make this a fun event to witness and see how mochi is made and also to understand a new cultural tradition in Japan. Location: 638 Mizuma, Kaizuka, Osaka 597-0104, Japan Website: https://mizumadera.or.jp/contact/ Time: 10 AM - 3 PM Price: Free Dates: January 2nd and 3rd Japanese Food Festival If you’re looking for a spot to try all the different types of Japanese food, Osaka’s January Food Festival is the perfect spot to visit. With food such as ramen, seafood, karaage, and various types of rice bowls, a trip to the Hanahaku Memorial Park is a must during your January trip to experience something familiar or perhaps completely unheard of. With the use of Japan’s rich resources such as fish and rice, you’ll get the opportunity to enjoy fresh, handmade food often cooked or prepared right in front of you at the various stalls. No matter what you order, it will make both a great meal and a fun visit. Admission to the park and festival is free, however, you should bring enough cash with you for all of the different foods you are bound to try. Additionally, this event only occurs for two days, and since the dates are yet to be determined, keep an eye out by checking the website before your trip for when they publish the schedule for the festival! Location: 2-163 Ryokuchikoen, Tsurumi Ward, Osaka, 538-0036, Japan Website: https://nippon-food-fes.com/#place Time: 10 AM - 4 PM Price: Park admission is free Dates: January 2nd-4th Shop New Year Deals at Shinsaibashi Like most places, Osaka has multiple shopping districts full of travelers and stores of all kinds in narrow streets referred to as shotengai. As it is the new year, sales are rampant, making it a perfect time to shop for family or souvenirs for yourself. A perfect spot to find multiple stores one after the other would be Shinsaibashi, a long, stretching shotengai with stores selling traditional Japanese snacks, clothing, souvenirs, food, electronics, and more. Ranging from huge department stores to small variety stores, the possibilities are endless with what sales you may find this time of year, and even if shopping isn’t your thing, you may find some good deals on Japanese snacks or food! Location: Chuo Ward, Osaka, 542-0085 Japan Time: Opening/Closing times depend on individual stores, which can be checked in the maps link Price: Free Dates: Starting from January 4th Toka Ebisu Festival Looking for financial success this new year? Then the Toka Ebisu Festival is a must-visit to pray for either a business, your job, and so forth. Taken place at Imamiya Ebisu Shrine, you’ll see many congregated waving bamboo sticks, and people praying and making offerings to the shrine’s god, Ebisu: the god of commerce and money, thus the reason why it attracts so many in Osaka. Before you engage in any festival activities, you should take a look at what the shrine itself has to offer. Most Shinto shrines sell omamori (amulets) and other various items to bring you luck or fortune, but Imamiya goes above and beyond and sells a vast amount. On top of that, there are women called fukumusume, or lucky daughters, who hand out charms- so grab one of those if you can! But also, definitely take a look and pick up an amulet or two before you wish for financial success! If you’re hungry during or after the festival, there are plenty of food stalls lining the streets with typical Osaka takoyaki, but there are also many other different types of food for you to enjoy. Location: 1 Chome-6-10 Ebisunishi, Naniwa Ward, Osaka, 556-0003, Japan Website: https://www.imamiya-ebisu.jp/tokaebisu Time: 9 AM - 9 PM Price: Free Dates: January 9th - January 11th Doya Doya Festival Looking for something unique to experience on your trip to Osaka this upcoming January? Visit Shitenoji Temple, where this once-a-year festival occurs. While at first, you may not understand what is going on, having a brief idea of what this festival is about before going is recommended, so allow me to explain! Certainly, at first glance, it just looks like a group of boys in different-colored loincloths, but these boys are all fighting for talismans meant to ward off evil—thus, they are highly sought out and something worth being fought over. Originally this festival was for farmers who would fight over talismans that would bring their farms and fields a good harvest, and even now, these talismans are still used for agricultural wishes. Location: Tennoji Ward, Osaka, 543-0051 Japan Website: https://www.shitennoji.or.jp/event/1/#event971 Time: 2 PM - 6 PM Price: Free Dates: January 14th Namba Yasuka Tug-of-War Festival Held on the third Sunday of January every year, this folk cultural property of Osaka is one you won’t want to miss if you want to get a good sense of the real Osaka. This huge tug-of-war festival is celebrated based on an old myth of the enshrined deity, Susano-no-Mikoto, who killed the serpent god Yamata-no-Orochi, thus saving his people from the hardship this serpent had caused. Why tug-of-war, you ask? By having a long, winding rope, the people involved in the festival replicate the attack between the deity and serpent god through a massive tug-of-war competition. Whether you go to appreciate this cultural event or go to see who wins, Namba Yasaka’s liveliness will energize everyone, leaving behind a good time and a great memory. Location: 2 Chome-9-19 Motomachi, Naniwa Ward, Osaka, 556-0016, Japan Website: https://nambayasaka.jp/?post_type=post&order&orderby&paged=3 Time: 8 AM Price: Free Dates: January 19th Try an Onsen During the Cold Weather Since January is still in the winter season, Osaka has been cold for quite a while, prompting some to seek restaurants or stores for heating. But did you know Osaka has multiple onsen to choose from instead? By going to an onsen, you can warm yourself up after a long day of walking around Osaka this time of year, or even before your errands so that you can start your day off warm. One onsen that sticks out and holds that typical onsen feel is the Ooedo Onsen Monogatari Minoh Onsen, with beautiful interiors to show off Mount Fuji, a common design choice in onsens, and beautiful wide bath spaces. Upon your arrival at this Edo Period-inspired hot spring, you’ll pay for the onsen ticket price (1813 yen on weekdays and 2253 yen on weekends/holidays for adults), then be taken to the yukata closet where you can choose from various yukata for when you are done with the warm, rejuvenating hot spring. Beyond the onsen, you can choose to stay the night, as it serves as a hotel, eat some delicious seasonal food, or enjoy the various forms of entertainment at Minoh Onsen, such as musical and theatre performances. There are also ways to spend some time with friends, such as various games you may have seen at Japanese festivals, and more familiar games like table tennis. If you plan to visit, make sure to check out their website for prices and their coupon tab to get 200 yen off your ticket! Location: 1-1 Onsencho, Minoh, Osaka 562-0006, Japan Website: https://www.ooedoonsen.jp/article/trends/?slug=minohspa-otoku&hotel=minoh-spa Time: 10 AM - 11:45 PM (Last entry is 10:45 PM) Price: Adults: 1813 (weekdays) 2253 (weekend/holiday) Children: 638 Dates: Open Daily With how culturally rich Osaka is, January makes a great time to get out there and widen your experiences with Japanese culture. From the very beginning of the month, travelers can enjoy their first shrine visit of the year from a select number of beautiful shrines in the area. If you happen to make it to a shrine, and without minding the crowds, you can start both your trip and your year off with wishes for good luck and fortune. As shrine visits are popular this time of year, other shrines open their doors in January for people to come and wish for all specific types of things, even financial success, as performed at the Toka Ebisu festival. No matter what you prioritize on your trip to Osaka in January, there are plenty of opportunities bound to make anyone’s trip full of great memories of Japanese culture, pockets full of omamori and trinkets from shrines for good luck and success, and fulfilled from various types of delicious Japanese food. Featured Photo Credit: OliOpi Want to have more fun on your trip to Osaka? Join a culinary tour and discover the city as a local!

Arigato Travel

29.12.2024

Arigato Travel’s 8 Top Travel Trends for Japan in 2025 | Arigato Travel

As Japan gears up to welcome a surge of international visitors in 2025, the country is evolving its tourism landscape to meet the needs of modern travelers. From innovative technologies and luxury experiences to sustainable tourism initiatives and cultural revival programs, Japan offers something truly unique for every type of visitor. With exciting trends like eco-friendly travel options, accessibility improvements, and solutions to overtourism, 2025 promises to be a transformative year for exploring the Land of the Rising Sun. Whether you’re drawn to iconic cities, serene rural landscapes, or authentic cultural experiences, Japan is ready to exceed expectations and create unforgettable memories. Check out our 8 predictions for the top trends in travel for the new year. 1. Resurgence of Inbound Tourism Continues Though not a new trend, Japan's tourism industry is continuing to rebound robustly, with projections to surpass pre-pandemic visitor numbers. The government aims to exceed previous records of inbound tourists, setting ambitious targets for 2025 and beyond. The Osaka-Kansai Expo 2025 is expected to be a major draw, attracting visitors with its futuristic themes and innovative exhibits. Efforts to enhance regional tourism aim to distribute visitors beyond metropolitan hubs like Tokyo and Kyoto, with new campaigns promoting lesser-known areas such as Tohoku, Shikoku, and Kyushu. 2. Luxury Market Expansion The luxury sector in Japan is experiencing notable growth, driven by both international tourists and favorable currency exchange rates. Brands like Prada and Hermès have reported significant sales increases, indicating a rising demand for high-end experiences among visitors. (according to Vogue Business) Luxury travel services, including private onsen stays, exclusive kaiseki dining, and personalized cultural tours, are being tailored to affluent visitors. Notable luxury train experiences, such as the Seven Stars in Kyushu and Twilight Express Mizukaze, continue to captivate wealthy travelers seeking opulent journeys. 3. Over-tourism and Infrastructure Challenges: Popular destinations such as Kyoto are facing challenges due to overtourism, including infrastructure strain and disruptions to daily life. The surge in tourist numbers has led to issues like long transportation queues and increased waste, prompting discussions on sustainable tourism practices. Local governments are implementing education programs for tourists, focusing on etiquette and cultural respect, to foster a harmonious coexistence with residents. Private sectors are promoting immersive, low-impact experiences like farm stays, cycling tours, and guided forest therapy walks to alleviate pressure on crowded urban areas. 4. Policy Reforms and Pricing Strategies To manage the growing tourist population, Japan is considering policy reforms such as dual pricing systems, where foreign tourists may pay more than locals at certain attractions. This approach aims to balance tourist influx with local community interests and preserve cultural sites. Tourism taxes, like those implemented for departing international flights, are being reinvested into sustainable tourism initiatives and infrastructure upgrades. Community-focused projects, such as partnerships with rural regions, aim to enhance regional economies through curated tourist experiences. 5. Technological Innovations in Tourism Japan continues to captivate visitors with its advanced technological offerings. Innovations like self-service bars, high-tech vending machines, and robot-assisted services enhance the travel experience, attracting tourists seeking unique and futuristic encounters. (from News.com AU) Advanced robotics are making appearances in tourism, from multilingual robot concierges to automated restaurant servers. Smart city initiatives, including enhanced Wi-Fi networks and app-based navigation tools, are being rolled out in major cities and tourist hotspots. 6. Increased Accessibility Japan is enhancing accessibility for travelers with disabilities, including installing more wheelchair-friendly infrastructure and developing apps for accessibility navigation. Efforts to expand multilingual signage, guides, and real-time translation devices make travel easier for non-Japanese speakers. More inclusive tourism experiences are being developed, such as braille signage at heritage sites, audio guides for visually impaired visitors, and guided tours tailored for those with special needs, ensuring everyone can enjoy Japan’s rich history and culture. 7. Cultural Revival Programs Tourists can immerse themselves in an increasing variety of hands-on cultural programs, such as traditional craft workshops in pottery, calligraphy, and ikebana (flower arranging). Samurai and geisha experiences, as well as participation in rural festivals, provide a closer connection to Japan’s heritage. The revival of old towns and traditional architecture offers an authentic glimpse into Japan’s history. Restored Edo-period districts in Kanazawa, Takayama, and Kurashiki are drawing visitors with their well-preserved streetscapes, charming teahouses, and historic landmarks. Efforts to preserve and showcase intangible cultural heritage, such as traditional storytelling (rakugo), folk music, and regional dances, are being incorporated into tourism experiences, offering visitors an intimate understanding of Japan's living traditions. 8. Eco-Friendly Tourism Options Sustainability is a core focus, with an increase in eco-friendly accommodations like ryokans powered by renewable energy. Eco-tours, such as wildlife safaris in Hokkaido and marine conservation activities in Okinawa, provide meaningful, nature-focused experiences. Many local businesses are adopting sustainable practices, including offering biodegradable products and reducing food waste in hospitality services. These trends and changes reflect Japan’s commitment to making its tourism industry more inclusive, sustainable, and innovative, ensuring a fulfilling experience for travelers in 2025 and beyond. Take advantage of all these amazing trends for the new year. Plan your dream trip to Japan in 2025 with the experts at Arigato Travel. Specializing in dynamic, off-the-beaten-path itineraries, we’ll craft a unique journey tailored to your preferences. Experience Japan like never before—get in touch with us today to start planning your extraordinary adventure! Featured Photo Credit: Madcat_Madlove Do any of these trends speak to you personally? Reach out to our expert team to craft your perfect itinerary!

Arigato Travel

27.12.2024

A Deep Dive into Japanese New Year: Traditions, Eats, and Festive Fun | Arigato Travel

In the Land of the Rising Sun, as the final chimes of December fade and nature lifts a crisp January dawn, Japan wakes to a spectacle of tradition unlike any other. This is not merely the turning of a page on a calendar; it's Shōgatsu, the Japanese New Year! A vibrant time filled with ancient customs, family reunions, and culinary delights that resonate in the very soul of the nation. From the meticulous

Arigato Travel

23.12.2024

YATAI ETIQUETTE: HOW TO BLEND IN LIKE A JAPANESE LOCAL | Arigato Travel

Do you know what

Arigato Travel

20.12.2024

SACRED JAPANESE RICE: EXPLORING FAVORITE BRANDS | Arigato Travel

This is a phrase I've heard from my mother since I was little. To be honest, I wasn't a fan of rice when I was young as I preferred bread, and was tired of having rice every day. Moreover, if even a single grain of rice were left in my bowl, my parents would get mad and tell me to eat everything, which made me dislike rice even more. In my house, there was rice, miso soup, vegetables, and either meat or fish for breakfast; a school lunch or lunch box called

Arigato Travel

18.12.2024

Interview With Barrique Tokyo – Traditional Japanese Ambiance | Arigato Travel

Let’s all welcome Barrique Tokyo, a Japan-based shop renowned for its exquisite collection of home furnishings, accessories, and decorative pieces ingeniously crafted from repurposed Kimonos. Each item breathes new life into these cherished Japanese textiles, showcasing unparalleled artistry and uniqueness. With a dedicated commitment to sustainability and cultural heritage, Barrique Tokyo has garnered widespread acclaim for its elegant craftsmanship. We are thrilled to present them to you today, inviting you to explore their enchanting world of timeless beauty and cultural reverence. First of all, can you please introduce yourself? BARRIQUE TOKYO is an online store of custom-made home furnishings that recreates the beauty of Japan’s good traditions of kimono and obi into interior items that fit the current lifestyle. My name is Chieko Noguchi, Curator & Artist. I have been involved in the world of fashion and apparel for many years and have worked as a stylist for celebrities and actors on TV and in commercials. My family was engaged in textile manufacturing and wholesale in Kiryu City, Gunma Prefecture, and Ashikaga City, Tochigi Prefecture, and I have been familiar with kimono, obi, and haori since I was a child. Seeing the beautiful colours, delicate patterns, weaving, and craftsmanship of the artisans, I decided to do something about the kimonos and obis that had been carefully passed down to me and became involved in remaking them in earnest. Could you please share with us the story behind Barrique Tokyo? When was it founded, and what inspired its creation? BARRIQUE refers to the wooden barrels used to age wine, and BARRIQUE was the first apparel brand created by Chieko Noguchi’s husband, a producer specialising in repurposed goods, after he became independent. In the 1980’s, Omotesando was the leading hub of fashion and culture. BARRIQUE had a directly managed store on the first floor of the Dojunkai Aoyama Apartment, the predecessor to the current Omotesando Hills, and Chieko Noguchi was in charge of the press (public relations). Many artists from overseas, including Julian Lennon and Pierce Brosnan, visited the store, and it was a popular store where Daryl Hall purchased stage costumes for his performances in Tokyo. We used ‘’BARRIQUE’’ to express ‘’tradition’’ and the desire to inherit the ‘’iki’’ of Omotesando, Tokyo and transmit it to the world. What is the core concept of the shop? Has using kimonos and obis affected your craft and customers? The brand logo is an arrangement of cloisonne enamel patterns. Shippou is one of the Yusoku-monyo patterns used by the aristocracy since the Heian period (794-1185), a time when the dynastic culture flourished in Japan. It is a pattern consisting of circles joined by overlapping quarters of circles. The eternally unfolding shape of the interlocking circles represents ‘’perfection’’ and is considered an auspicious and lucky pattern. Our concept is to have everlasting connections with people who read this article and purchase BARRIQUE TOKYO products, not only in Japan but also overseas, through ‘’kimono’’. What sets this ambiance and decoration store apart from others? What is important to us is to remake the products in a way that is in tune with modern and overseas lifestyles. For example, combining different materials, such as denim with shibori haori fabric, creates a stylish look. Furthermore, BARRIQUE TOKYO’s products are unique and one-of-a-kind, handcrafted with a focus on the differences in fabric expression for each piece created. The products have a long-life design that can be used timelessly. To convey the charm of kimonos and obis overseas is to convey Japanese culture and traditions. By remaking them into interior items, we hope to pass on the spirit of kimono in a different form overseas. Where do you get the used Kimonos and Obis from? How do you select them? Obi and kimono are purchased from special channels, being carefully selected, and only those items that we are satisfied with are commercialised. In our online store, you can choose your favourite pattern and colour from our carefully selected obi, one by one, and we also offer interior items that can be created from those obi as well. Also, can you tell us about your shop location? Can people find your creations outside of Japan, and where? The products are sold in stores at Maison WA, a concept store based in Paris, France. France is famous among European countries for its extremely high interest in Japanese culture and deep interest in craftsmanship. The awareness of brands is also high, and all brands from all over the world consider France as a business market. Name: Maison WA (Concept shop & Showroom) Phone: +33 (0)1 4026 6670 Address: 8 bis Rue Villedo, 75001 Paris Access: About 100 m from Pyramides station on the Paris Metro Opening hours: 11:00 – 19:00, Tuesday - Saturday https://barriquetokyo.com/pages/maison_wa In addition to our online store, we also hold pop-up stores on a regular basis. For more information, please visit our Social media. https://www.instagram.com/barriquetokyo/ Can people make customised orders at BARRIQUE TOKYO? At BARRIQUE TOKYO, we carefully select obi that are in good condition. Although the length varies from obi to obi, once you have selected your favourite one, please contact us by email etc and we will wholeheartedly create a Kakejiku runner or any other product of your choice. Where do you see BARRIQUE TOKYO in the future? Are there any interesting projects we should know about? We hope to help connect the beauty, culture, and history of traditional Japanese crafts to the world by remaking and delivering traditional obis and kimonos as interior decorations from Tokyo to everyone. Beyond products, are there any other Japanese cultural aspects BARRIQUE TOKYO wants to share with the world? Traditional Japanese crafts, arts, and lifestyle. Japan has long had its own unique culture, which includes beautiful traditions and techniques. We would like to convey the charm of Japan to the world through those cultural aspects. Is there anything else you’d like to share with our readers? Through kimonos and obis, we hope to bring the wonderful Japanese culture behind them to people around the world. We also want to convey the importance of respecting the traditional beauty of Japan and incorporating it into modern lifestyles. Thank you so much for taking precious time out of your day, answering questions, and sharing your extraordinary story with us! We appreciate your insights, and we are glad you joined us for this interview. Follow BARRIQUE TOKYO on: Website: https://barriquetokyo.com/ Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC59KV-lt9k9gFa02tIbm4wg/featured Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/barriquetokyo/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BARRIQUETOKYO/ Featured Photo Credit: Barrique Tokyo Plan to visit Tokyo in the future? Book a Personal Travel Consulting Call with our experts and let us ensure your trip is unforgettable!

Arigato Travel

16.12.2024

Miso: the Soul of Japanese Cuisine | Arigato Travel

Miso is deeply ingrained in Japanese food culture, and people outside the country are probably more familiar with it in the form of soup. Whenever you order a teishoku (meal course) at a restaurant, it is usually served with miso soup as a side. It is also common to see it when having a traditional breakfast. It is one of the core dishes and fundamentals of Japanese cuisine and can be used in food as simple as ramen, but also as delicate as kaiseki. It can also be a deep expression of love. There's a saying that when a person says “Would you make miso soup for me?”, the underlying meaning is actually “Would you marry me?” It shows how closely and dearly miso is tied to the daily life of Japanese people. You may not be aware, but there are several different types of miso. Depending on the amount and the type of ingredients used and the length of fermentation, it can make a big difference in taste, color, and texture. It is primarily made of soybeans, koji, and salt, which provides great nutrition to the body. Each region has a different preference for miso as well. There are three main types: kome (rice), mugi (barley), and mame (soybean). Kome Miso Kome miso is made from malted rice, soybeans, and salt. The process by which it is made starts by boiling and steaming the soybean, then pressure cooking it. As for the rice, it needs to be steamed first, then mixed with koji starter to turn it into rice malt. Then, mix the rice malt with soybean, season it with salt and water, and let it fermentate and age. Depending on the length of fermentation, we will get either shiro (white) miso or aka (red) miso. The white version has a shorter fermentation period of 2 to 8 weeks and is known for its smooth, sweeter taste and rich flavor, which is great for seasoning senbei. The most well-known brand is

Arigato Travel

15.12.2024

Wear Your Rainbow Cloaks With Pride With Japan Gay Guide | Arigato Travel

Japan might not be the first name on the list when you think of LGBTQ+ support, but the community is there and growing with the influx of travelers and those looking to live in Japan for the long term. Tempered by increasing support from locals, big cities like Tokyo and Osaka boast a thriving queer culture centered in the neighborhoods of Shinjuku Ni-chome in the former and Doyamacho in the latter. Yet many people might still find it daunting to get into the scene, from not being sure about their own gender and sexuality, to not having sufficient information on the subject, to simply finding the idea of meeting new people nerve-wracking. That’s where Japan Gay Guide comes in. As a website dedicated to serving the latest information on LGBTQ+-friendly events, venues, and businesses, let’s learn how it works to spread awareness about the community and share the resources to stay safe, happy, and healthy in a society that’s definitely progressing in its views but which still has a long way to go. Hi, Lin-san! Can you please introduce yourself? What is your role in the company? Hi! My name is Lin, and I am the Chief Marketing Officer of Japan Gay Guide. I have been with the project since its launch. We are very new, but very excited for what’s to come! Can you please explain to our readers about Japan Gay Guide and what it aims to do? Japan Gay Guide is a comprehensive platform dedicated to providing information and resources for the LGBTQ community in Japan. We aim to bridge the cultural and language barriers that often make navigating Japan challenging for LGBTQ travelers, expats, and locals. Our mission is to showcase the beauty of Japan’s LGBTQ culture while ensuring people have the tools they need to explore safely and confidently. From LGBTQ-friendly venues and inclusive neighborhoods to tips on cultural practices and safety, JGG strives to make the scene more accessible, welcoming, and enjoyable for everyone. How did Japan Gay Guide start, and what have you been doing since to spread the word? Japan Gay Guide began with a vision: to make Japan’s LGBTQ culture more accessible to people around the world. Our team recognized the challenges posed by language and cultural differences, especially for tourists and foreigners living in Japan. We wanted to create a space where the beauty and diversity of Japan’s LGBTQ culture could be celebrated and shared globally by everyone. To spread the word, we’ve actively engaged with the community through social media, collaborated with LGBTQ-friendly businesses and organizations, and attended LGBTQ+ events across Japan. Our content, which includes personal stories, comprehensive guides, and tips, reflects our core values of inclusivity and empowerment. You offer many comprehensive guides on LGBTQ-friendly spots throughout Japan. How do you gather such information, and how much does fieldwork factor into deciding which spots you’d recommend? Fieldwork is absolutely integral to what we do. Our team personally visits venues, engages with owners and staff, and assesses each spot’s inclusivity and atmosphere. This hands-on approach ensures that the recommendations we provide are authentic and reflective of the LGBTQ community’s needs and experiences. We also listen to feedback from our audience and community. Many of our featured spots are based on recommendations from locals and travelers who share their experiences with us. By combining on-the-ground research with community input, we maintain the accuracy and quality of our guides. JGG also introduces many resources for residents in Japan, from inclusive clinics to meetup groups and even hotline services. How rare or accessible is such information to the community in Japan? Such information is often difficult to access, especially for non-Japanese speakers. While Japan is gradually becoming more inclusive, many LGBTQ resources are scattered, under-publicized, or only available in Japanese. Without platforms like Japan Gay Guide, finding inclusive clinics, support hotlines, or community groups can feel overwhelming, particularly for those new to the country. By consolidating this information into one accessible platform, we help bridge the gap and make essential resources available to those who need them most. Not all LGBTQ-friendly places welcome certain genders or sexualities, so JGG makes sure to include plenty of great all-inclusive places on the website. How does including straight people and allies of the community in your audience align with Japan Gay Guide’s mission? Inclusivity is at the heart of Japan Gay Guide’s mission. We believe that creating safe, welcoming spaces for everyone—regardless of gender, sexuality, or identity—is essential to building understanding and acceptance. By including straight allies and those exploring their identities, we foster connections that challenge stereotypes and promote allyship. All-inclusive spaces serve as bridges, allowing allies to support the community while creating environments where everyone feels respected and valued. You always make sure to include the personal anecdotes of the staff, travelers, and other members of the community regarding being queer in Japan. What was the most memorable story you’ve heard so far? It’s hard to pick one - But our most memorable stories are always about our members’ strange and fabulous experiences in the nightlife of Japan. Drag queen hosts, Halloween events, muscle bars, you name them! You can check out these experiences below: Kingdom Tokyo’s Crazy Land: Fantastical Realm into the World of Drag Shows FTM Bar in Japan: My First Experience Gay Muscle Bar in Tokyo: My First Time Male Maid Cafe in Japan?! My First Time! My First Time: Muscle Girls Bar Tokyo What do you think is the most unique aspect of Japan’s gay culture compared to what you know about the rest of the world? Japan's rich history and unique cultural heritage deeply influence its LGBTQ scene. While the country can be conservative in some respects, stepping into Japan's gay districts reveals a fun, welcoming world unlike any other. We hope these areas become more and more vibrant hereon! Meeting up with new people and trying to find a community can be daunting, especially when you’re in a new country whose language you’re not yet fluent in. Where do you think people should start when they first set foot in Japan? We recommend starting in Shinjuku Nichome, Tokyo’s LGBTQ hub. With its variety of bars, clubs, and community events, it’s a vibrant space where you can meet people from all walks of life. For those seeking a softer introduction, joining LGBTQ-focused language exchanges, meetups, or community groups is a great way to ease into the culture while building connections. Speaking of, we at Arigato Travel believe that food is an all-around great way to get to know someone. Do you have any recommendations of restaurants or other food spots to go to during a night of club and bar-hopping? After clubbing, we recommend heading to an Izakaya to have a sit and continue your drinks, or perhaps a ramen shop to sober up! There are many such spots that are LGBTQ-friendly in Tokyo, you can view a list here: https://japangayguide.com/gay-friendly/ Thanks so much for sharing, Lin-san! May Japan Gay Guide continue to reach more and more people, providing them with the information necessary to better understand themselves and also one another. And let us all wear our colors in pride no matter where we find ourselves in the world! Make Sure to Follow Japan Gay Guide on: Website: https://japangayguide.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/japangayguide/ X/Twitter: https://x.com/JapanGayGuide YouTube: https://youtube.com/@japangayguide?si=GTLo2_jEe1Ck2X81 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@japangayguide?lang=en Featured Photo Credit: Japan Gay Guide Plan to visit Tokyo in the future? Be sure to check out Japan Gay Guide for resources, as well as our Arigato Travel LGBTQ+ Japan Resources page! and don't forget to use your special code for a discount on Food Tours. To show our support for the LGBTQ+ community, book now and use the coupon code LGBTsushi for 10% off your tour!

Arigato Travel

14.12.2024

Kanpai! Destination sake breweries to visit in and around Tokyo | Arigato Travel

Why pick up a bottle of sake from the store, when you can go straight to the source? Imagine sipping on freshly brewed sake while overlooking picturesque landscapes or savoring a carefully crafted dish that perfectly complements the subtle flavors of your drink. Visiting a sake brewery is not just about tasting the brew; it's an immersive experience where you can explore the artistry behind each bottle, connect with the rich history of the craft, and perhaps even meet the passionate brewers who pour their heart and soul into every drop. Here’s our guide to the best destination sake breweries in and around Tokyo: self-contained sake wonderlands that go beyond the brew, offering hard-to-find combinations of beautiful views, delicious eats, souvenirs with local flavor, and more. Sawanoi Ozawa Brewery (Okutama, Tokyo) Want to escape the heat, density, and glassy high-rises of Tokyo without actually leaving Tokyo? Okutama is the answer. A popular day-trip destination blanketed in green during the spring and summer months and boasting stunning foliage in autumn. It’s the perfect reprieve from the frenetic pace of urban Tokyo.Enjoy the greenery and river views at In this serene, mountainous haven, Sawanoi Brewery stands as a guardian of tradition. Founded in 1702, the crystal-clear waters from the Tanzawa peaks infuse their sake with clarity and freshness. Their drinks are best enjoyed while relaxing in the riverside Seiryu Garden, perfectly settled in the din of chirping cicadas. Visiting Sawanoi is as much about the experience as it is about the sake. The tasting hall offers the opportunity to sample up to ten varieties of sake, ranging from Sawanoi’s signature blends to seasonal specialties. Each sample is available at a mere ¥300, served in a ceramic ochoko printed with the brewery’s distinctive crab logo. And here’s a tip: keep that ochoko handy for future visits to enjoy a ¥100 discount on your next tasting round. Complement your tasting with a sample of the delicious local cuisine. Try the jiggly konnyaku, a regional delicacy, slathered in a sweet and savory dengaku sauce, or opt for the refreshing al dente cold soba. If you’re looking for a more substantial meal, the on-site restaurant and café offer a selection of traditional dishes that pair perfectly with your chosen sake. Don’t leave without browsing the souvenir shop, where you can find local specialties to take home and remember your trip. Some of the things you can find are wasabi cream cheese, infused with the spicy kick of locally grown wasabi, or Mitake-jiru, a hearty freeze-dried soup made richer with the addition of Sawanoi’s own sake kasu, or sake lees. These edible souvenirs are perfect for extending the Sawanoi experience long after you’ve left the tranquil surroundings of Okutama. Website: https://www.sawanoi-sake.com/en/about/ Address: 2-770 Sawai, Ome, Tokyo Nearest train station: Sawai Station Getting there: From Shinjuku, hop on the Chuo Line (Ome Special Rapid). At Ome Station, change to the local train headed for Okutama. Alight at Sawai Station. The entire journey should take approximately 1.5 hours and cost ¥945. Tours: In Japanese, English pamphlets are available. Must be booked in advance through the website. Free of charge; no samples provided. Ishikawa Brewery (Fussa, Tokyo) As you exit Haijima Station, it’s hard to believe that a historic sake brewery lies just around the corner. Evoking listless American suburbia, the area is all sharp angles and large cars – which makes entering the Ishikawa Brewery estate all the more delightful. Walking through its gates, the first thing you may notice is the impressive sugidama – a large sphere fashioned from cedar – which is green at the start of the brewing season in winter, and slowly withers to brown as the year unfolds. Or perhaps your eyes will be drawn to the twin keyaki or zelkova trees, towering at 400 years old. Both trees are adorned with zigzag Shinto paper streamers and tied together to represent the marriage between the god of rice and the goddess of water – the perfect harmony at the heart of sake. Ishikawa's sake, sold under the Tamajiman brand and available for purchase at the sake cellar, is a testament to time-honored craftsmanship. Each bottle captures the essence of the pristine waters of the Tama River. For anyone even slightly curious about sake, Ishikawa Brewery offers a comprehensive tour, available in English, which not only goes over the ins and outs of the sake-making process but also includes a tasting session led by the guide. Apart from sake, Ishikawa also brews a range of beer, ranging from crisp and refreshing lagers to rich, full-bodied ales, each crafted with the same dedication to quality and tradition that defines their sake. The wafu Italian cuisine offered at Fussa no Birugoya blends the delicate flavors of Japanese ingredients with the hearty comfort of Italian dishes, creating a unique dining experience that pairs beautifully with Ishikawa’s brews. For those with a sweet tooth, the brewery’s offerings extend beyond beverages. Indulge in umeshu-infused cakes, where the subtle sweetness of plum liqueur elevates the dessert to a new level. The shop also offers local organic honey, harvested from the surrounding area, which makes for a perfect gift or a treat for yourself. Pair it with their smoked cheese, a rich, savory option that complements both their sake and beer selections. Website: https://www.tamajiman.co.jp/en/ Address: 1 Kumagawa, Fussa, Tokyo 197-0003, Japan Nearest train station: Haijima Station Getting there: From Shinjuku, hop on the Chuo Line (Ome Special Rapid). Get off at Haijima Station. The journey should take about 1 hour, and cost ¥483. From the station, you can take a taxi or walk around 20 minutes to the brewery. Tours: In Japanese and English. Must be booked in advance by email. Paid (¥3000); samples provided. Kumazawa Brewing Company (Chigasaki, Kanagawa) Imagine a rose, jeweled with dew drops, now, imagine licking it. That’s how fresh, floral, and sweet Kumazawa Brewing Company’s junmai ginjo, under the name Kamakurashiori (鎌倉栞), tastes on the palate. And it’s only one in a series of excellent sake produced by this long-standing maker. Hidden within the brewery’s subterranean cellar, you’ll find two samples available for just ¥300, offering an affordable way to savor the delicate flavors that Kumazawa is renowned for. Since its founding in 1872, Kumazawa Shuzo has been dedicated to brewing sake, and it is now the last remaining sake brewery in the Shonan region. But don’t expect a purely traditionalist approach. Kumazawa masterfully blends the classic with the contemporary. This unique fusion is evident in everything from their comprehensive bottle art, which often features a playful sense of humor, to the calming, sun-dappled garden. It’s here that antique tokkuri (traditional sake flasks) are thoughtfully scattered among the greenery, creating a serene atmosphere that invites relaxation. More recently, Kumazawa has expanded its offerings to include a variety of craft beers, ranging from easy-to-drink IPAs perfect for hot beach days to darker, more complex brews for those who enjoy layered flavors. The brewery’s dedication to capturing the essence of the Shonan region extends to its newest ventures into gin and whiskey. Several of their beers are inspired by and named after nearby destinations like Kamakura and Enoshima, capturing the vibe and flavor of these coastal areas in every sip. Beyond being a brewery, though, Kumazawa serves as a cultural hub, with a café, bakery, restaurants, and small vegetable market on its premises. This makes Kumazawa a family-friendly destination and an ideal spot for the sober-curious as well, offering something for everyone. Art and craft enthusiasts will find much to admire at the Okeba Gallery, a haven for all things handmade. Here, you can pick up elevated souvenirs ranging from beautifully crafted ceramics and finely worked leather goods to unique jewelry and delicate paper crafts, all created by local makers and artists. Website: https://kumazawa.jp/ Address: 7 Chome-10-7 Kagawa, Chigasaki, Kanagawa 253-0082, Japan Nearest train station: Kagawa Station Getting there: From Shinjuku, take the Odakyu Line until Ebina, then change to the Sagami Line to Kagawa Station. The whole journey should take about 1.5 hours and cost ¥755. Walk about 8 minutes to the brewery. Tours: Visitors can take a brief guided tour of the brewery, available to those dining at their on-site restaurants, with advanced reservations (Japanese). More breweries worth visiting in the greater Tokyo area: Nakamura Brewery (Akiruno, Tokyo) With over 200 years of history, Nakamura Brewery is hidden away in Tokyo’s western reaches. Nakamura’s sake is crafted with the pure waters of the Akigawa River. In addition to offering a range of traditionally brewed sake, the brewery houses a compact yet fascinating museum where visitors can explore the tools and techniques used in sake production throughout the ages. From old wooden vats to vintage presses, the displays provide a tangible connection to the rich heritage of sake brewing in Japan. Website: https://chiyotsuru.com/ Address: 63 Ushinuma, Akiruno City, Tokyo Nearest train station: Akigawa Station Getting there: From Shinjuku, take the Chuo Line to Akigawa. The whole journey should take about 50 minutes and cost ¥660. Walk about 15 minutes to the brewery. Izumibashi Brewery (Ebina, Kanagawa) Venturing slightly beyond Tokyo to Ebina, Izumibashi Brewery is known for its “field to bottle” approach, where the brewer controls every aspect of production, from rice cultivation to brewing. Their Black Dragonfly series is particularly renowned. Beyond its exceptional sake, Izumibashi offers a scenic experience for visitors, with lush rice fields surrounding the brewery, providing a picturesque backdrop. The brewery’s commitment to sustainability and tradition, combined with its stunning location, makes it a must-visit destination for those looking to explore the intricate relationship between agriculture and sake brewing. Website: https://izumibashi.com/en/ Address: 5 Chome-5-1 Shimoimaizumi, Ebina, Kanagawa 243-0435 Nearest train station: Ebina Station Getting there: From Shinjuku, take the Odakyu Line until Ebina. The whole journey should take about 1 hour and cost ¥520. Walk about 25 minutes to the brewery. Noguchi Brewery (Fuchu, Tokyo) With its signature crane-emblazoned bottles, Noguchi brews sake for the gods. It is the official purveyor of sake for Fuchu’s Ōkunitama Shrine, one of Tokyo’s five major shrines. Visitors can enhance their experience by exploring Nakakyū Honten, a historic liquor store, and Kura Cafe, where unique offerings like sake kasu latte and sake kasu cheese toast showcase the versatility of sake. Website: https://www.noguchi-brewery.co.jp/ Address: 2-4-8 Kotobukicho, Fuchu City, Tokyo Nearest train station: Fuchu Station Getting there: From Shinjuku, take the Keio Line to Fuchu. The whole journey should take about 35 minutes and cost ¥320. Walk about 10 minutes to the brewery. Exploring the sake breweries in and around Tokyo offers more than just a taste of Japan’s iconic beverage; it’s an opportunity to dive deep into the cultural and historical roots of this traditional craft. From the serene surroundings of Sawanoi Brewery in Okutama to the innovative blend of old and new at Kumazawa Brewing Company, each brewery provides a unique experience that goes beyond the bottle. Whether you're a sake connoisseur or a curious traveler, these destinations offer a perfect blend of stunning landscapes, exquisite local flavors, and a glimpse into the meticulous process that brings each bottle of sake to life. → Learn more about sake → Enjoy a luxury sake, cocktail, and whisky pairing tour in Tokyo with Arigato → Go on a sake tour of Hiroshima with Arigato Featured Photo Credit: Aarohi Narain On a trip to Tokyo? Book your local guide to learn more about Japanese food and culture.

Arigato Travel

13.12.2024

Hatsuyume: Everything You Need to Know About Japan’s “First Dream” Tradition | Arigato Travel

What is Hastuyume? Simply put, hatsuyume is the first dream of the new year, believed to occur after December 31st and on January 1st, which can be a message that one will have luck within the upcoming year. This tradition has been around since the early Edo period and is still recognised today, about 400 years later. Through certain symbols appearing in one’s first dream of the new year, people can be foretold of their possible luck. These symbols which are said to determine whether you are destined for good fortune in the ensuing year are typically said to be imagery of Mount Fuji, a hawk, and/or an eggplant. Each one must be seen in that order, hence the common saying of 一富士、ニ鷹、三茄子, first Mt. Fuji, second the hawk, and third the eggplant. These symbols are the three most popular objects said to bring good fortune that are seen in the first dream of the year. While now they may seem random, there are plenty of good reasons for why these three symbols are so important when it comes to this tradition. Why Mt. Fuji, a Hawk, and Eggplants? The reason why these three objects are said to be tied to good luck in dreams comes from the language itself and how these words can sound similar to other words that many may wish for. For example, Mount Fuji comes from 無事, buji, for safety. The hawk comes from the Japanese word for hawk taka, which sounds like the word for high in Japanese, 高, meaning that one will make high advancements in life. Lastly, the eggplants, which may stand out as the most curiosity-striking symbol, come from the similar sounding verb “to achieve”, 成す, as they both sound like “nasu”, so that many may achieve great things in the year. Practices Done for Hatsuyume As almost everyone wishes for good luck and the chance to see any of these foretelling dreams on the first day of the new year, there are some preparations for this dream to appear that night, and to ward off any bad dreams that may come instead. First, many will buy or already have a piece of paper called Hatsuyume Makurafuda, basically, a First Dream Pillow Talisman. This is a charm put under one’s pillow with the shichifukujin depicted on it, the seven gods of fortune, such as Ebisu, Daikokuten, and more, all on a huge treasure ship. By having this placed under your pillow and sleeping on it, tradition says this will give you a good dream for the new year. However, if one doesn’t see any of the auspicious symbols, and instead has a rather bad/unlucky dream, there are measures to counter this. First, many may just simply brush it off as a sakayume, a dream that simply doesn’t make sense if applied to reality, and see nothing bad or unlucky from it. Those who are more superstitious, on the other hand, and feel that their bad dream may have meanings of terrible misfortune, can avoid this by chanting “バクにあげます” (translating to “I give it to the tapir”) to the tapir three times, an animal believed to have eaten bad dreams, inviting it to come and eat your bad dream. This practice can be done before or after the dream as either preparation or avoidance. Once this is done, some put salt on the paper of the gods of fortune (only if the dream was bad) and then dispose of it. Examples of Good and Bad Dreams Even though the previously stated fuji, hawk, and eggplants are the most popular symbols that represent a dream that shows you will have good luck, there are many interpretations of what makes a good dream so that many will not feel disheartened when they wake up with no recollection of either the three, but also signs of bad dreams to keep an eye out for. Good Dreams: Seeing the Seven Gods of Fortune, and/or the ship they are commonly depicted on Seeing a snake Dreaming of going through a Torii gate Dreaming of the morning Dreams of fire Bad Dreams: One’s teeth falling/coming out Being chased by something Laughing Hatsuyume remains an important part of tradition across Japanese households and individuals to this day still believing in the meaning behind the three symbols many hope to see in their first slumber of the year. After a whole year of hard work, studying, and/or challenges, many wish for the new year to be a bit easier than the last, and consider this first dream of the new year to be a foretelling of how it will go based on how fortunate they may be. Whether it's going the whole way by purchasing paper charms to place under pillows to bring luck to your sleep, praying to the tapir, or just simply going to bed and hoping to see Fuji, a hawk or eggplants at all, this tradition is still respected and practised in many forms. While remembering the things you see or experience in a dream can be quite difficult, there are many interpretations of good and bad dreams when it comes to this tradition. So don’t feel left out, as there are plenty of ways to get involved with a multitude of fun variations that can come from dream interpretation. Curious if you will be met with good luck this new year. Try to remember your dream, or perhaps engage in the measures to protect and/or bring lucky dreams during your sleep! Sweet dreams, and good luck! Feature photo credit: A K O Interested in Japanese holidays and want to celebrate? Be sure to enter our special Holiday Giveaway where you can win fabulous prizes and celebrate the right way!

Arigato Travel

12.12.2024

Decoding the Traditional Japanese New Year Decorations | Arigato Travel

Ah, New Year in Japan – a time for renewal, reflection, and of course, decoration! It is the time when you stroll through the streets of Japan, and you see all kinds of cool traditional decorations, then you get curious, “What are they for?” Fret not, my fellow travellers – I’ve got you covered with the answers to all your burning questions. Today, I will be introducing the different kinds of traditional Japanese New Year decorations, and explaining the meaning behind them! The Meaning and History Behind Japanese New Year Decorations Let’s start with the basics. What exactly is the history of all these decorations, and why are they so important? The answer lies in welcoming the Toshigami-sama (年神様) – the New Year deity that brings good fortune, health, and blessings for the year ahead. These decorations act as beacons for the Toshigami-sama to find their way into your home and bring a fresh dose of luck, health, and prosperity. Each decoration has its own meaning and purpose. Let's explore the most iconic ones: Kagamimochi (鏡餅) – The Mirror Rice Cake This little beauty is more than just a pretty centrepiece. Kagamimochi (鏡餅) is a traditional New Year's edible decoration consisting of two round, flat rice cakes stacked on top of each other, symbolizing dualities like past and future, or yin and yang, and representing the hope for stacked fortune and a prosperous, harmonious year. Topped with a daidai (a type of citrus), it symbolizes the wish for generational prosperity and longevity. It is believed the power of the deity resides within the cake! Typically displayed on shrines, alcoves, and entrances, it invites the New Year Deity into the home. After New Year’s, during kagami biraki (鏡開き) on January 11, the mochi is cracked open and shared among family members, spreading the divine blessings amongst all. Therefore, it is essential not to discard it but to consume it, as doing so allows the family to receive all of the fortune and energy of the god for the year ahead. Fun fact, the reason why it is called a Mirror Cake is because the round shape of the cake is said to resemble ancient bronze mirrors, which were once used to reflect divine power! Kadomatsu (門松) – The Gate Pine Tall, majestic, and often made of pine, bamboo, and plum, the Kadomatsu (門松) stands guard at the entrance of homes to guide and welcome the New Year Deity inside. The pine represents enduring life and strength, while specifically, the three bamboo shoots represent heaven, earth, and humanity, symbolizing harmony and balance. Displayed in symmetrical pairs, it marks the boundary between the divine and everyday worlds. Kadomatsu is usually set up by December 28 and should be removed by January 7 or 15, ensuring the home is prepared to receive blessings. For apartment dwellers, mini versions of kodomatsu (made from paper or felt) can work wonders, especially near your front door! Shimekazari (しめ飾り) – The Rope Decoration Made from braided rice straw, this rope is hung above the door to create a boundary between the sacred and the secular. It’s there to ward off evil spirits and ensure that the toshigami-sama will feel welcomed at home. The shimekazari often features auspicious items like daidai (a type of citrus), urajiro (fern), and konbu (kelp), and shide (paper streams), each symbolizing prosperity, integrity, happiness, and protection against disasters. Displaying shimekazari on a fortunate day like December 28 ensures the home is ready for the deity’s arrival. Hang this over your door or entryway. Make sure it's placed at a higher point to create a “boundary” that the deity can pass through. Eto Figurines (干支置物) – Zodiac Animal Figurines Each year, a different animal of the Chinese zodiac (Eto) would appear as a New Year decoration. These cute and symbolic figures represent the spirit of the year ahead. In addition to its general significance, the eto (干支) figurine for 2025, which is the Year of the Snake (み or へび), holds special meaning. The snake, particularly the white snake, is a symbol of good fortune and is believed to enhance luck, financial prosperity, and personal growth. It is also thought to bring peace and harmony to the family. This year’s eto figurine is especially auspicious, making it an ideal decoration to invite these blessings into your home for the new year. Display your eto figurine in a prominent spot such as the entrance, living room, or on a shelf – somewhere the family can easily admire it throughout the year of the snake. Shōgatsu-flowers (正月花) – The New Year's Blooms These flowers are just what you need to bring some natural beauty into your home. Matsu (pine), ume (plum), and senryō (千両, a plant with red berries) are the typical flowers used for New Year's decoration. Each separate plant symbolises longevity, endurance and hope through the winter months, and wealth respectively. Chrysanthemums and Narcissus are also popular choices for the bouquet. While the former is traditionally believed to ward off evil spirits and is a symbol of longevity and rejuvenation, the latter is known for its resilient nature and its auspicious meaning of

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