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

Arigato Travel

10.12.2024

Toshikoshi Soba: A Japanese New Year Tradition | Arigato Travel

There are many traditions around the world when the year ends. For Japan, one such tradition is eating toshikoshi soba, or “year-crossing noodles.” This simple dish holds a special place in the Japanese New Year celebration traditions as soba noodles bring good luck in longevity because they are long and thin, the easily broken noodles cut ties from the passing year's ill luck, and soba attracts money since gold leaf craftsmen use sticky soba gaki to collect tiny specs of gold dust. What is Toshikoshi Soba? Toshikoshi soba is a type of buckwheat noodle traditionally eaten on New Year's Eve. The long, slender noodles are believed to symbolize longevity and good fortune. Slurping the noodles is thought to ward off evil spirits and bring good luck for the coming year. Beyond its symbolic meaning, Toshikoshi Soba is also seen as a practical choice for a New Year's Eve meal. The noodles are relatively easy to digest, making them a light and refreshing way to end the year. Additionally, the clean, simple flavors of soba allow the taste buds to be refreshed, preparing them for the indulgent feasts that often follow. There’s no strict rule on timing, but many people enjoy their Toshikoshi Soba during dinner on New Year’s Eve, while others eat it close to midnight. To embrace its luck-bringing qualities, it’s best to finish the meal without leaving leftovers. Some even believe eating it before the New Year’s bell rings ensures a clean start. The Historical Roots of Toshikoshi Soba The tradition of eating Toshikoshi Soba on New Year's Eve is believed to have originated during the Edo period (1603-1868). Back then, soba noodles were considered a luxury item, making them a fitting choice for a special occasion. As the custom gained popularity, it spread throughout Japan, becoming an integral part of the New Year's festivities. Variations and Regional Differences While the core concept of Toshikoshi Soba remains consistent, there are regional variations in the way the dish is prepared and served. In some regions, the noodles are served hot in a flavorful broth, while in others, they are served cold with a dipping sauce. Some people prefer to enjoy their soba with various toppings, such as tempura, nori (seaweed), and negi (green onions). Where to Experience Toshikoshi Soba If you're planning a trip to Japan during the New Year, here are a few recommendations for places to savor the authentic experience of Toshikoshi Soba: Tokyo: Ginpachitei Yazawa: Located in Kameari, Ginpachitei Yazawa is a well-known soba restaurant offering delicious, aromatic soba crafted from buckwheat sourced in Hokkaido and Fukushima. The Inaka Seiro soba has a rich flavour and darker colour, while the Seiro Soba is elegantly mild. Both make for a perfect Toshikoshi meal to end the year with a satisfying, flavourful experience. Tansouan Kenjiro: Tansouan Kenjiro, a cozy back-alley restaurant in Asakusa, serves nihachi Edo soba, a popular choice in Tokyo’s soba scene. The soba’s subtle buckwheat flavor is enhanced by pairing it with duck soup, especially in their recommended Kamo Seiro. This restaurant is perfect for a Toshikoshi dinner. Kyoto: Honke Owariya: A centuries-old soba restaurant in the heart of Kyoto, known for its elegant presentation and refined flavors. On the first floor, there is table seating, as well as a tea room (tatami room), while on the second floor, both table seating and tatami banquet rooms can be found. Enjoy the great taste of soba and sweets in a relaxed atmosphere. All seats are non-smoking at all times. Soba-no-Mi Yoshimura: A modern soba shop offering creative twists on traditional dishes. It is known for its high-quality soba noodles, which are made from stone-ground buckwheat flour. The restaurant offers a variety of soba dishes, including ten-wari soba, inaka soba, and kawari soba. They also offer other dishes, such as tempura, tofu, and soba-based desserts. Osaka: Akari Soba: Looking for an escape from Dotonbori's relentless crowds? Akari is a charming, homey soba shop that will whisk you away to a calmer, quieter world - along with some delicious soba and tempura. Takama: Located a 5-minute walk away from Tenjinbashisuji Rokuchome Station, 1-star Soba Takama serves glorious soba noodles at highly affordable prices. It might be one of the most affordable Michelin-starred meals in the city! Making Toshikoshi Soba at Home If a trip to Japan isn't possible, you can still enjoy the tradition of Toshikoshi Soba at home. Many supermarkets sell pre-packaged soba noodles, and you can find dipping sauces and toppings online. Here's a simple recipe to get you started: Ingredients: Soba noodles Dashi broth Soy sauce Mirin Wasabi Negi (scallions) Instructions: 1. Cook the soba noodles: Boil the noodles in a large pot of salted water until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water to prevent them from sticking. 2. Prepare the dipping sauce: Combine dashi broth, soy sauce, and mirin in a small bowl. 3. Serve: Place the cooked soba noodles in a bowl and serve with the dipping sauce, wasabi, and negi. Toshikoshi Soba is more than a meal; it’s a cultural tradition that symbolizes hope, longevity, and a fresh start. Whether you choose to indulge in a bowl of soba at a traditional restaurant or recreate the experience at home, Toshikoshi Soba offers a delightful way to welcome a prosperous and joyous new year. Featured Photo Credit: sasazawa Ready to try some authentic Japanese soba? Come join our Flavors of Japan food tour, where we will introduce you to the fundamentals of Japanese cuisine!

Arigato Travel

10.12.2024

Discover the Magic of Winter and Christmas Illuminations in Tokyo | Arigato Travel

As the holiday season approaches, Tokyo is gearing up to transform into a dazzling wonderland, filled with sparkling lights and festive displays. Christmas and winter illuminations in Japan have become a cherished tradition, evolving over the years from simple decorations to breathtaking artistic expressions. The origins of these illuminations can be traced back to the late 19th and early 20th century when Western customs began to influence Japanese culture. In recent decades, the displays have grown in complexity and scale, with stunning light installations becoming a symbol of the holiday season. While this tradition is a relatively modern phenomenon, illuminations have become an integral part of Japan's winter views. The country's approach to holiday lights really illuminates its ability to adapt and reinterpret foreign customs. While Christmas is not a traditional Japanese holiday, illuminations have become deeply ingrained as part of winter festivities, offering both a romantic atmosphere and a spectacle for families and travelers alike. Tokyo's illuminations not only create a magical atmosphere but also serve as a celebration of the city's rich cultural landscape. From upscale shopping districts to historic neighborhoods to amusement parks, each area offers its unique take on holiday decor and reflects both modernity and tradition. With millions of lights illuminating the streets, parks, and landmarks, Tokyo is undoubtedly one of the best places to experience the festive spirit! Here’s a guide to some of the most enchanting illuminations to experience this holiday season! Marunouchi Illuminations Located near Tokyo Station, the Marunouchi area lights up with over a million LED lights. This event began in 2002 and has become a beloved holiday tradition amongst locals and visitors alike. The stunning display along the tree-lined Marunouchi Naka-Dori street creates a warm and inviting ambiance, especially when contrasted with the historic architecture of Tokyo Station. While enjoying the lights, visitors can also enjoy various pop-up shops and cafes offering seasonal treats! This event will run from November 14th, 2024 to February 16th, 2025. Roppongi Hills Keyakizaka Roppongi Hills is renowned for its upscale shopping and dining, but during the winter season, it transforms into a luminous spectacle. The illuminations along Keyakizaka Street span over 400 meters and feature over 800,000 lights that create a breathtaking walkway leading up to the iconic Mori Tower. The illuminations are synchronized with music, which enhances the experience immensely. From the observation deck of Mori Tower, you can enjoy panoramic views of the city and the lights, making it an ideal spot for a Christmas-themed evening out. This spectacle will run from November 7th to December 25, 2024. Mohri Garden Christmas Just next door to Roppongi, The Mohri Garden showcases a beautiful display of lights amidst its serene landscape. This traditional Japanese garden offers a peaceful retreat from the bustling city, and what better time to enjoy this garden when it is adorned with seasonal decorations? The seasonal lights enhance the garden's natural beauty and create a tranquil atmosphere that invites visitors to relax and unwind. Special events may also include tea ceremonies or music performances, adding to the holiday charm. This display is scheduled for November 28th to December 25th, 2024. Tokyo Midtown Tokyo Midtown's annual

Arigato Travel

07.12.2024

A HIDDEN GEMS ITINERARY IN KYOTO: STEP INTO ANOTHER WORLD | Arigato Travel

Lately, my Instagram feed has been flooded with reels showcasing the beauty of Kyoto. If you’ve caught a glimpse of them, you’ve likely been amazed by the amount of tourists visiting this historic city. Kyoto is often known for its temples, shrines, and traditional Japanese charm. But this time, I want to take you on a 2-night, 3-day itinerary that allows you to explore Kyoto’s rich history and uncover its hidden, mystical spots - all while avoiding the usual crowds. Let’s explore Kyoto like a local! Day 1 - Discovering Central Kyoto 9:00 Breakfast at Tsumugi Cafe Start your morning in Kyoto with a delicious breakfast at the charming Tsumugi Cafe. This cozy spot offers fluffy shokupan toast, iced coffees, and other specialty drinks. Japanese shokupan is renowned for its soft and delightful texture - a must-try for visitors! For around 700 yen, try their toast topped with a refreshing scoop of ice cream - making it perfect for a hot summer day! But don’t fill up too much, as there are more foodie adventures to come! Tsumugi Cafe Address: https://maps.app.goo.gl/7xbhhtf5E4U91g6Z7 Learn more about the delicious azuki butter toast in our article on red beans! 11:00 - 12:15 Wagashi Making at Kanshundo East Store Just 20 minutes away from Tsumugi Cafe, you’ll find yourself at Kanshundo East Store, where you can experience making wagashi for 3,300 yen. Wagashi are traditional Japanese confections, often enjoyed with tea, crafted from natural ingredients like rice flour, sweet bean paste, and seasonal fruits. In this workshop, you’ll create four types of wagashi, paired with matcha tea. Moreover, each season offers different beautiful designs, making this an unforgettable memory. Even if you don’t speak Japanese, don’t worry! English texts are available. Just be sure to book in advance and arrive 10 minutes early to get settled. Kanshundo East Store Address: https://maps.app.goo.gl/XxStGhG2tTcTe8NP8 Wagashi Making Experience Reservations: https://www.kanshundo.co.jp/wagashiform/ 12:30 Exploring Kyoto City Kyoto’s city center is incredibly convenient and has an amazing transportation system, making it easy to see the sights! Start your day at Nishiki Market, a busy street with over 130 vendors offering everything from fresh seafood to local favorites like soy milk doughnuts. Afterwards, take a stroll through the beautiful Kyoto Gyoen National Garden - only a 40 minute walk away from each other. This garden is home to the Kyoto Imperial Palace and is a must-see no matter the season! Nishiki Market Address: https://maps.app.goo.gl/Cchv3jZLDspqvTpr7 Kyoto Gyoen National Garden Address: https://maps.app.goo.gl/1DYWDUDB8HZHa1iQA 15:30 - 17:00 Crafting Kanzashi at Oharibako By now, you’ve noticed many people wearing beautiful kimonos with cute accessories. At Oharibako, you can create your own kanzashi (traditional hairpin) that perfectly compliments a kimono for just 3,300 yen. No need to worry if you don’t speak Japanese, the friendly staff will guide you through the process step by step. Making a personalized kanzashi is a truly memorable activity to do in Kyoto! Oharibako Address: https://maps.app.goo.gl/Z4YM2jEZ5WM92XBJ7 19:00 Dinner at Minoru Dining - Kyoto Porta If you’re visiting in summer, you’re a lucky one. This restaurant serves dishes made with Manganji Amatou, a representative vegetable of Kyoto. Additionally, it’s the first ingredient from Kyoto to be registered with a geographical indication (GI) and is sweet and tasty indeed. It’s in season from June to October, so be sure to taste the real Kyoto brand products at Minoru Dining. Address: https://maps.app.goo.gl/giuVBeoTcjA5gVTL7 20:00 Rest at Genji Hotel During the second day, you will go hiking, so it’s best to get a good night’s sleep. At Genji Hotel, you can enjoy the beauty of Kyoto’s four seasons in a harmonious blend of Western and Japanese styles. This hotel is not just a place to sleep, but somewhere to experience Kyoto's Omotenashi (hospitality) culture. The interiors, crafted by Kyoto artisans, to the views from the windows, are all concepts that embody the spirit of Kyoto. The best thing is that it’s just 20 minutes away from Kyoto Station on a walk, making it a perfect base for your stay. Be sure to check out more details in this blog. Genji Hotel Address: https://maps.app.goo.gl/rZjRVdMAM8t4i52c8 Day 2 - Hidden Treasures and God's Domain 9:30 Breakfast at Coffee Shop Yamamoto-Shimogamo Past the Kyoto Gyoen National Garden, you can savor delicious Wagyu beef cutlet sandwiches, fruit sandwiches, and morning coffee at coffee shop Yamamoto-Shimogamo. Since you’ll be moving a lot today, have a good breakfast and take some snacks for your journey! For the next locations, it is easier to use a car compared to public transportation. For more information on car rentals, please take a look at this article from Japan Airlines. If you are interested in using public transportation, be sure to check Google Maps for the most efficient bus and train routes to get to these locations! Yamamoto-Shimogamo Address: https://maps.app.goo.gl/rxgbyYJbcRGvBYfc8 *There are a few parking spots around the building, but if they’re full use a paid parking lot. 11:00 Tanukidani-san Fudo-in Temple Tanukidani-san Fudo-in Temple is just 15 minutes away from Coffee Shop Yamamoto-Shigamo by car and around 30 minutes by city bus. While it’s bustling during summer and winter events, it’s usually a quiet spot. Fortunately, free parking is available. The temple is known for its tanuki (raccoon dog) statues, which visitors have been leaving since around 1970. The current main hall was built in 1986, standing along the mountainside like Kiyomizu Temple, so be sure to visit! Tanukidani-san Fudo-in Temple Address: https://maps.app.goo.gl/4G84N1jz1qRjdhTP9 13:00 Lunch at Onnellinen Only a 40-minute drive away from Tanukidani-san Fudo-in Temple, is Onnellinen. This restaurant offers onigiri set meals starting at 1,650 yen. The yuzu pepper-scented karaage and Omi beef hamburger steak match perfectly with the onigiri. However, they close at 2 PM, so watch out for the last order time! Onnellinen Address: https://maps.app.goo.gl/ycnJnsRx18nZZ99q8 Option 1 14:15 - 15:00 Gohodo Benzaiten From Onnellinen, it’s 10 minutes away to Paraca Saga Shakado Fujinoki-cho Daiichi Parking (paid one), and then 15 minutes to Gohodo Benzaiten by foot. The main attraction here is the green maple leaves in summer and the vibrant red leaves in autumn. At the end of autumn, the ground is covered with red leaves, creating a stunning view. Gohodo Benzaiten Address: https://maps.app.goo.gl/f9EEkbi8jgMW7vzg8 Paraca Saga Shakado Fujinoki-cho Daiichi Parking Address: https://maps.app.goo.gl/JcqeQmQj69ZtY57HA 16:30 Visit Kayabuki No Sato From Paraca Saga Shakado Fujinoki-cho Daiichi Parking, it takes 1 hour and 10 minutes to Kayabuki no Sato, a small village of traditional Japanese houses. This village was designated as an Important Preservation District for Groups of Traditional Buildings in 1993. In addition, there are two accommodations in the village, but you should book in advance due to potential closing days. There are also several places to stay a bit further away, which you can check out here. Furthermore, Kyoto’s Miyama town provides various events throughout the year. My top recommendation is the “Miyama Kayabuki no Sato Snow Lantern Festival” in January. There are also many activities and tours in English, so don't miss out to check the official website and enjoy the rich nature of Kyoto!! Address: https://maps.app.goo.gl/M5xbQhK3Bi3RABWYA Option 2 14:15 - 16:30 Hike to Kuya Falls From Onnellinen, it takes 15 minutes to Sakuraya Parking (700 yen to 1,200 yen). Since the trail to Kuya Falls is rugged, please wear comfortable shoes. This waterfall is the largest in the Kyoto area, about 15 meters tall, and offers a satisfying nature hike unlike a first day. However, it takes about an hour to reach Kuya Falls (2 hours round trip), so it is recommended to be there earlier when it is still bright out. If you travel during the winter season, you may want to skip your plan of visiting Tanukidani-san Fudo-in Temple. The path is complex, so follow this website for directions! Kuya Falls Address: https://maps.app.goo.gl/1uZcWdmxJji2Y7SX7 Sakuraya Parking: https://maps.app.goo.gl/4ZvefngMt8aks3fN7 18:00 Kayabuki No Sato From Sakuraya Parking, it is a 1 hour and 15 minutes drive. Option 3 15:00 - 16:00 Kamo Shrine It’s about a 50 minute drive from Onnellinen to Kamo Shrine. Unlike larger shrines, Kamo Shrine is hidden within a cedar forest, which may feel a bit lonely. However, it offers a mystical experience, as if stepping into the realm of gods. Since it can be dangerous after dark, adjust your plans according to the season as well. And also, there is parking available, but remember to close the wildlife prevention gate on your way in. Address: https://maps.app.goo.gl/AAW8vvmGd1adfnwh7 17:00 Kayabuki No Sato From Kamo Shrine, it takes 35 minutes to drive. Day 3 Goodbye to Kyoto 10:00 Check Out Following checking out from the hotel, you can spend the rest of the morning exploring the village. 12:00 Lunch at Oshokujidokoro Kitamura After your exploration, why not try Nishin soba at Oshokujidokoro Kitamura? Nishin soba is a local dish of both Hokkaido and Kyoto. Unlike the sweet soy sauce-based soup from Hokkaido, the Kyoto version uses light soy sauce, offering a refined taste. Be sure to compare both versions when traveling in Japan! Address: https://maps.app.goo.gl/dF7ueo45F8P9KJFLA 13:00 Return to Kyoto Central City In this blog, I’ve introduced a 2-night, 3-day plan to discover Kyoto’s hidden gems. While famous tourist spots are wonderful, don’t miss the chance to visit these mystical places that make you feel as if you’ve stepped into another world. In addition, Arigato Travel offers various tours in Kyoto, so be sure to check them out! So if you’re planning a trip to Japan, make sure to include Kyoto in your itinerary. I promise you won’t regret it and look forward to seeing you there! Featured Photo Credit: nekko_nekon Ready for a trip to Kyoto?, why not join a culinary tour and discover the city as a local?

Arigato Travel

03.12.2024

Beyond The Slopes: Discovering Luxury and Charm With Chatrium Niseko | Arigato Travel

Nestled in the heart of Japan’s premier ski destination, Chatrium Niseko offers a unique mix of luxurious comfort and adventure. Known for its world-class hospitality and stunning views of Mount Yotei, this vibrant hotel is more than just a place to stay-it’s an experience in itself. Whether you’d like to snowboard down powdery slopes or savor exquisite Japanese cuisine, Chatrium Niseko promises an unforgettable getaway. We had the chance to interview this exceptional hotel and learn more about what makes it a must-visit destination for travelers seeking both excitement and relaxation. Hello! Can you please introduce yourself? Hello! My name is Narisa Jareeboonsompte, and I’m thrilled to introduce myself as a Sales and Marketing Executive at Chatrium Niseko. Originally from Thailand, I have a diverse background in hospitality and tourism, which has fueled my passion for creating exceptional guest experiences. In my role, I focus on developing innovative marketing strategies and building strong relationships with our clients to showcase the beauty and charm of Niseko. The hotel is located in the scenic Hirafu Village, between Mt. Yotei and Mt. Annapuri, and has over 72 rooms! Can you share the story behind the founding of Chatrium Niseko and how it has evolved over the years? Chatrium Niseko is more than just a hotel; it's a cornerstone of the beautiful Hirafu Village, perfectly nestled between the majestic Mt. Yotei and Mt. Annupuri. Our journey started with a vision to merge luxury with the stunning natural beauty of Hokkaido’s premier ski region. Since opening, we’ve grown from our initial dream into a vibrant destination with over 72 thoughtfully designed rooms. Our diverse accommodations range from cozy studios to expansive 3-Bedroom Suites and luxurious penthouses, ensuring we cater to every type of guest—whether you're a couple seeking a romantic getaway, friends on a skiing adventure, or families enjoying a winter vacation. Each room is designed to make you feel right at home, even when you’re far away. Our full kitchen facilities in many of our rooms allow guests to prepare their own meals, providing the convenience and comfort of home during your stay. Our evolution has been marked by a commitment to excellence and a passion for offering unforgettable experiences. As the seasons change, so does Chatrium Niseko, from the serene snowy landscapes of winter to the vibrant greenery of summer. We’re excited to welcome you to Chatrium Niseko, where modern luxury meets the unparalleled beauty of Niseko, and where every guest can find a perfect home away from home. With a diverse range of rooms available at various price points, could you share more about the different room types offered at Chatrium Niseko? Additionally, do any of these accommodations include kitchens for guests who prefer the option of cooking their own meals? At Chatrium Niseko, we pride ourselves on offering a diverse range of rooms to cater to every type of guest. Our accommodations are designed to provide both luxury and flexibility, ensuring that whether you’re visiting as a couple, with friends, or as a family, you’ll find a perfect space to suit your needs. Our property features over 72 thoughtfully designed rooms, ranging from cozy studios to expansive 3-bedroom Suites and luxurious penthouses. Each room type provides its own unique charm and level of comfort, allowing guests to choose based on their preferences and group size. One of the standout features of our rooms is the choice of three distinct views: the vibrant cityscape, the majestic Annupuri, and the iconic Mt. Yotei. Each view offers a different ambiance, giving guests the option to enjoy various vibes depending on their preference. For those who enjoy cooking their own meals, All rooms are equipped with full kitchen facilities. This allows guests to prepare and enjoy their own meals, adding an extra layer of convenience and comfort to their stay. Whether you're seeking a romantic retreat, an adventure with friends, or a family vacation, Chatrium Niseko provides a range of options to make your stay as enjoyable and memorable as possible. We look forward to welcoming you to Chatrium Niseko, where you can experience the perfect blend of modern luxury and stunning natural beauty, along with the flexibility to tailor your stay to your personal preferences. What are some ways the hotel accommodates families, and what specific amenities or services do you offer to ensure a family-friendly experience for guests of all ages? At Chatrium Niseko, we prioritize creating a welcoming environment for families, ensuring that guests of all ages have an enjoyable experience. Here are some of the ways we accommodate families: Spacious Accommodations: Our family suites and interconnected rooms provide ample space for everyone to relax comfortably. Each room is thoughtfully designed with family needs in mind. Kids’ Amenities: We offer complimentary cribs and highchairs upon request, making it easier for families with young children. Additionally, we have partnerships with childcare services, allowing us to arrange babysitting or other support as needed. Ski and Snow Activities: During the winter months, we provide convenient access to ski lessons for all ages, along with equipment rentals tailored for families. We also collaborate with partners who organize winter kids' ski weeks and camps focused specifically on children. Moreover, there are plenty of indoor and outdoor activities available for families to enjoy together. Summer activities: During the summer months, Chatrium Niseko transforms into a vibrant hub of outdoor adventure, surrounded by the stunning natural beauty of the area. Families can immerse themselves in a variety of exciting activities that embrace the warm weather and the lush landscape. Such as rafting, ziplining, hiking and cycling. Our goal at Chatrium Niseko is to create a nurturing environment where families can bond and make lasting memories together. There are quite a few different food options for visitors! Could you describe some of the dining options and foods visitors might see? At Chatrium Niseko, we’re all about good food and great experiences! We have five fantastic restaurants right here in the hotel, serving up everything from delicious breakfasts to cozy dinners. A highlight is definitely Kamimura, our Michelin-starred gem. It’s the perfect spot for a special night out—you won’t want to miss it! But that’s not all! Just a short walk from the hotel, you’ll find a ton of other awesome dining options. Whether you’re in the mood for sushi, ramen, or a hearty steak, there’s something for everyone. And don’t forget about our amazing concierge team! They’re here to help with all your dining plans, from making reservations to recommending the best spots based on what you’re craving. Need help with transportation or planning activities? We’ve got you covered there too! So come stay with us at Chatrium Niseko, where great food and unforgettable experiences are just a step away! We noticed that there are many outdoor activities available for guests! Could you tell us more about these activities and how guests might book them? At Niseko, there’s no shortage of activities to keep you entertained, whether you visit in summer or winter! Summer brings a host of exciting outdoor adventures with breathtaking views. You can go rafting down the pristine rivers, tackle the thrills of ziplining, or try your hand at tree trekking through the lush greenery. There’s truly something for everyone! When winter rolls around, Niseko transforms into a winter wonderland. Of course, skiing and snowboarding are top of the list, but you can also enjoy snowshoeing and even building your own igloo for a unique experience. For those who prefer to stay indoors and escape the chill, we offer fun options like a Japanese cooking class and a Niseko pottery experience. Guests can book activities directly with the agencies if they prefer. However, our fantastic concierge service team is here to make things even easier! Just let us know your preferences, and we can recommend and help arrange your bookings. We highly suggest pre-booking your activities to ensure you secure your spot for the adventures you’re excited about. Whether you're seeking thrills or cozy experiences, Niseko has it all! Come join us for an unforgettable getaway! How does Chatrium Niseko integrate traditional Japanese hospitality (omotenashi) into its guest experience? At Chatrium Niseko, we wholeheartedly embrace the concept of omotenashi, the Japanese philosophy of hospitality that emphasizes anticipating guests' needs and providing exceptional service. Here are some key ways we integrate this into our guest experience: Personalized Service: From the moment you arrive, our staff is dedicated to making your stay as comfortable and enjoyable as possible. We take the time to understand your preferences, whether it's special dietary needs or room arrangements, ensuring a tailored experience. Warm Welcomes: Our team greets every guest with genuine warmth and friendliness, making you feel right at home. We believe that a sincere smile and a heartfelt welcome set the tone for your stay with also Japanese staff who can speak fluent in English. Attention to Detail: We pay meticulous attention to every detail, from the cleanliness of your room to any special request for restaurant booking. This commitment to excellence reflects our desire to create a seamless experience for you. Cultural Experiences: We offer various cultural activities, such as traditional Japanese cooking class and local pottery workshops, allowing guests to immerse themselves in the rich heritage of Japan and create lasting memories. Local Market Corner: We have a small market corner featuring local souvenirs and artisanal products. This allows guests to take home a piece of Niseko, capturing the essence of their stay and representing the beauty of Japanese craftsmanship. Concierge Services: Our concierge team is always ready to assist, providing recommendations for local attractions, dining options, and activities based on your interests. We aim to connect you with the best experiences Niseko has to offer. Feedback and Adaptation: We actively seek feedback from our guests to continuously improve our services. Listening to your suggestions helps us refine our approach and ensures that we meet your needs effectively. At Chatrium Niseko, our goal is to embody the spirit of omotenashi in everything we do, ensuring that your stay is not just enjoyable but truly unforgettable. Can you share what sets Chatrium Niseko apart from other luxury hotels in the region? Chatrium Niseko stands out from other luxury hotels in the region for several compelling reasons: Unique Location: Nestled in the heart of Niseko, we offer stunning views of both the mountains and the surrounding natural landscape. Our prime location provides easy access to outdoor activities year-round, whether it’s skiing in winter or hiking and rafting in summer. Exceptional Dining Options: With a range of on-site restaurants, including the Michelin-starred Kamimura, we offer a culinary experience that highlights local flavors and ingredients. Our dining options cater to diverse tastes and preferences, ensuring that every meal is a memorable One. Family-Friendly Focus: We offer a variety of spacious room layouts that are perfect for families and larger groups. Our accommodations are designed with comfort and stability in mind, ensuring everyone has plenty of room to relax and enjoy their stay together. This makes Chatrium Niseko an excellent choice for families seeking a luxury experience that caters to their unique needs. Whether you’re enjoying quality time in our family suites or utilizing interconnected rooms, you’ll find the perfect space to create lasting memories. Concierge Expertise: Our dedicated concierge team is committed to helping guests curate their perfect getaway, providing personalized recommendations for activities, dining, and transportation, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable experience. Sustainable Practices: We are dedicated to sustainability and eco-friendly practices, incorporating local materials and supporting local communities, which resonates with environmentally conscious travelers. Is there anything else you would like to share with our readers? Absolutely! At Chatrium Niseko, we believe that every guest deserves a unique and memorable experience. Whether you're here for adventure, relaxation, or cultural exploration, our team is dedicated to ensuring your stay is exceptional. Don’t forget to explore the stunning natural beauty surrounding us—each season offers its own charm, from breathtaking winter landscapes to vibrant summer adventures.We also invite you to immerse yourself in local traditions and cuisine, making the most of your time in Niseko. Our concierge team is always ready to assist you in planning your activities, dining, and excursions to ensure you experience the best of what this incredible region has to offer. We look forward to welcoming you and making your stay unforgettable! Thank you so much for taking the time to be interviewed, we loved hearing about the omotenashi offered at your beautiful hotel! Chatrium Niseko: chatrium.com/chatriumniseko Instagram: instagram.com/chatrium Facebook: facebook.com/chatrium Featured Photo Credit: Chatrium Niseko Want to have more fun on your trip to Japan? Join a culinary tour and discover the country as a local!

Arigato Travel

28.11.2024

Things to do in Osaka in December 2024 | Arigato Travel

With the winter cold in the air and the city decorated for the season, December is a wonderful time to visit Osaka. Since Osaka doesn’t get snow as often, you don’t have to worry about your trip being too cold, but still expect chilly weather around this time of year, and bring proper coats, gloves, scarves, etc! In December, Osaka comes alive to celebrate the holidays and the magical winter season by having night illuminations paint the streets, cozy Christmas markets, and plenty of food to keep you warm during this chilly time. Whether you like the holiday season or simply prefer winter trips, this blog will introduce everything to do in Osaka during this December. Take a Walk Through the Magical Colored Street of Midosuji Celebrate the holiday season by taking a stroll or a drive through the colorful street that is Midosuji, a popular street in Osaka. With a 4-kilometer stretch of trees illuminated with all sorts of colors, it not only paints the streets a mix of beautiful shiny colors but also makes the perfect atmosphere for this winter holiday season. It’s a free event and goes from 5 PM until 11 PM, and has easy access across several stations. If you are looking for something magical this winter season, Midosuji should be a quick trip on your itinerary, whether you go for a few minutes for a quick stroll or stay around enjoying the sights for an hour or so in the early evening or late at night. Dates: November 3rd - December 31st Address: https://maps.app.goo.gl/JCKExSMQ1C5jvGm16 Website: https://www.hikari-kyoen.com/en/midosuji/ Experience Colorful Recreations of Famous Architecture at Osaka Castle At Osaka Castle Park, you can experience another illumination experience, showcasing Osaka’s history, reproductions of famous spots, and also activities for those who want to have a little fun during this event, all with Osaka Castle lit up in the background. Additionally, with the attraction being in Osaka’s Castle Park, you can enjoy two amazing spots at once. With illuminations of the Nio Guardians from Asakusa, women in kimonos, a reproduction of Dotonbori street, and so much more, you can take a good stroll around the park and enjoy every illuminated creation, having fun recognizing places or things you know, but also admiring illuminations of things you have never seen before. Additionally, even the trees and long stretches of area are illuminated, and these lights are also reflected on the water, so the whole park becomes lit up, making an amazing, bright experience. There are even lit-up see-saws, so if you want to have a quick moment for some illuminated entertainment, Osaka Castle provides! There are also some opportunities for hot-pot and food trucks in the area if you want some warm food this chilly time of year. Dates: November 22nd - February 25th Address: https://maps.app.goo.gl/gduCXLg1BdTtNPsa9 Website: https://illuminagegroup.com/en TryRamen from all over Japan at the 2024 Ramen Expo Looking for something warm to eat during this cold weather? Perhaps a hot bowl of ramen? Lucky for you, in Osaka’s Banpakukoen Expo Commemoration Park, there is a Ramen Expo that invites around 10 vendors selling different types of ramen every December. This food festival is held every weekend from late November to late December, with ten new vendors each weekend. Once you pay the park’s entrance fee, you will get a poster introducing all the different types of ramen available to try at this expo. With some options being from different parts of Japan, you can experience different flavors across the country from one spot. Whether you’re searching for a hearty pork ramen from Tokyo, a thick broth tonkotsu ramen from Osaka, or even a bowl or two from Hokkaido and Fukushima, a couple of hours spent at the ramen expo is a must this December. Typically, instead of buying ramen directly, you buy vendor tickets that are usually at a fixed price. As prices tend to change each year, expect a ticket to be at most about 1000 yen each, as some years have seen prices of 650-700 yen, and it’s always best to be prepared! Dates: November 23rd - December 30th (Weekends only and some Fridays) Address: https://maps.app.goo.gl/UHKEEhKzYVVLc5ZR9 Website: https://ramen-expo.com/ Have Some Fun by Ice Skating at Umekita Square Looking for a way to stay active on your trip? Right on Umekita Square is Osaka’s Tsurun Tsurun ice rink. This ice rink is a must-visit whether you want to exercise or have fun skating with friends or family! With hours from around 11-12 to 8:30 PM, you can have lots of time to fit this activity into your schedule. As gloves are necessary for this rink, make sure to bring some, or you can buy some for cheap at the rink! Dates: November 24th - February 25th Address: https://maps.app.goo.gl/B4NHEKvUujiEuiRA9 Website: https://www.mbs.jp/skate-rink/ Feel the Christmas Spirit at Osaka’s Christmas Market At Osaka’s Umeda Sky Building, you can experience the holiday season firsthand within their German-inspired Christmas market. It is full of different shops, stalls for food, huge light decorations, a merry-go-round, and even a nativity scene. Being at the Sky Building allows you to witness Osaka’s winter scene from above with beautiful views. With Umeda Sky Building being so large, there are plenty of activities this time of year. Whether you want to stay at the market and purchase vintage-looking cookie tins, get some hot chocolate, eat German food like sausages, or enjoy German beer and/or wine, you can also find that this area has Christmas dinner activities. Unlike the Umeda Sky Building, admission is free, and the dinner courses have set prices that depend on each course, so make sure to check the website! There are also ceremonies such as lighting up the tree ceremony for the festivities, so if you happen to be in Osaka during that time, make sure to drop by for that wonderful event! Dates: November 26th - December 25th Address: https://maps.app.goo.gl/rcCy6Ry7t2cJbZcZA Website: https://www.skybldg.co.jp/event/xmas/ Yassai Hossai Festival at Iwatsuta Shrine While this festival only occurs once in December, if your trip manages to fall around mid-December, especially the 14th, you won’t want to miss this spectacular opportunity to experience local Japanese culture at a beautiful shrine location. Based on an old local legend from the area, where villagers found the sea god named Ebisu stranded and warmed him by fire, this festival is now celebrated by praying for a bountiful harvest and catch for fishermen, but also by recreating the legend, carrying a man dressed as Ebisu across burning firewood while chanting “yassai, hossai!” There are even sayings that bringing home the firewood used in this festival can bring good luck, so upon your visit, if you’re able to, try taking a little piece or two home with you after it has cooled off, of course! Date: December 14th Address: https://maps.app.goo.gl/psNvEEiC3w2z6QyQ7 Website: 石津太神社のやっさいほっさい堺市 Osaka, this time of year, is a beautiful and magical place that comes alive with color, lights, and, of course, holiday spirit. Thus, if the weather isn’t an issue, December makes a great month to visit Osaka, whether you wish to experience festive markets and enjoy some hot food and drink or walk through and look with wonder at all of the decorative and creative illuminations Osaka hosts each December. If you are looking for something unique to Osaka this time of year, go see the festival that only occurs on one day of the year in December, the Yassai Hossai festival at one of the area’s beautiful shrines. This time of year even accommodates those who want a way to get their body moving and stay active, an ice rink for people of any age to enjoy, and a way to get everyone involved on one’s trip. Additionally, if you’re looking for a place to spend your lunch or dinner to keep warm, Osaka’s Banpakukoen has a ramen expo for you to get a hot meal in between your travels while also experiencing ramen flavors across the country. In short, if you like the cozy feeling of a city in the cold, great sights and events, and even activities, Osaka should be on your travel plans for this year’s December. Featured Photo Credit: flickr Want to have more fun on your trip to Osaka? Join a culinary tour and discover the city as a local!

Arigato Travel

27.11.2024

From Winter, Spring, Summer to Autumn, Everything to Do in Suruga! | Arigato Travel

Being between Shizuoka and the Izu Peninsula, Suruga is typically referred to as the area surrounding the gorgeous Suruga Bay. Known for its beautiful views of Mount Fuji, fishing opportunities, tea harvesting, and drinking experiences, along with much more throughout each season, there is never a wrong time to visit! Of course, even though it is known for its large bay, there are equal opportunities whether done on water or land. From onsen to tea harvesting, skiing, and matcha experiences, both land and sea, Suruga has it all. With different experiences across the seasons, this blog will provide all the activities and experiences one can enjoy throughout the year. Winter - Downtown Suruga (December-February) While it may be the chilliest season of the year, don’t let that hinder you from making the trip to Suruga. Suruga has relatively mild winters from 0-18 degrees Celsius as it is somewhat near southern Japan, making it bearable for this time of year. Even though the main tea harvesting and fishing seasons are over, this article will introduce ways to still have fun in Suruga in the winter, specializing in the downtown area. Sabo Yume Terrace Enjoy all sorts of products from Shizuoka prefecture in this cozy terrace cafe. Specialties include cups of tea, either sencha (green tea) or hojicha (roasted tea), and rice bowls topped off with warm ochazuke, a type of rice that, once it’s cooked, has green tea poured over it. Another specialty from this region is mandarin oranges, which this cafe also takes advantage of by preparing and selling mandarin jelly. Whether you enjoy tea, warm rice, or refreshing light jelly, warm up and take a break, or use this cafe as a start for your day by sitting directly across a beautiful view of Mount Fuji, with new, fresh coats of snow in the winter while enjoying some warm tea and food. With Suruga being in such a bountiful area, there is no better place to enjoy all the main products of Shizuoka prefecture than Sabo Yume Terrace. Address: https://maps.app.goo.gl/VVTSYdwrSkfT7Xzp9 Website: https://www.nihondaira-yume-terrace.jp/ Matcha Calligraphy Looking for an experience that you’d probably only find in Suruga? A restaurant within the downtown area has created a fun opportunity for visitors to enjoy doing calligraphy, eat a seasonal meal, and of course, have some tea to drink, all in one. When your experience begins, first, your instructor will show you various green teas for you to enjoy at your leisure, paired with a multi-course meal, using seasonal ingredients from the area. After you’ve eaten, you’ll get to take part in some Japanese calligraphy. Whether you’ve tried your hand at calligraphy in the past or are a total beginner, this experience is open to everybody, and you’ll be taught how to partake in such an important aspect of Japanese culture. What you may notice right away is that the ink used for this activity is not the usual black ink you may expect, but instead, powdered green tea mixed into a solution to act as ink, which allows it to come out as a beautiful light green color on paper. Address: https://maps.app.goo.gl/jp6TYdj9ZZLrm9Zh7 Website: https://fieja-japan.com/teapairing-matchacalligraphy/ Onsen Need some warming up? Head to the Suruga ward area before you end the day and stop by an onsen. Close to the bay, a highly rated onsen called Yunoki no Sato is referred to as a “super public bath,” which just recently implemented the use of nano water in every facility. Nano water is water that has had the contaminants and chemicals removed to soften the water. Thus, nano water is purely O2 and H20, making it the best water you could bathe in. This water will help relax your body and is good for the skin. And according to the onsen’s website, it is even advertised as delicious. What I would recommend, as a frequent onsen goer, is always to check out the bath labeled “露天風呂,” or “rotenburo,” meaning exposed air bath. Because the onsen water at this destination can reach temperatures up to 32.6 Celsius, being exposed to the chilly winter air helps balance these temperatures and prevents you from overheating and feeling sick if you are new to onsens. Keep in mind that prices change depending on whether you visit on a weekday or weekend, with adult prices being 1,100 yen on the weekday and 1,320 on the weekend. Address: https://maps.app.goo.gl/sihJNe8p4qec4ngaA Website: http://www.yunokinosato.com/ Tea Museum While tea harvesting season is sadly over for this time of year, and it may be too cold for some to go out into the water, you might feel more comfortable going somewhere you can enjoy and get some nice heating while you’re at it. Even though tea-harvesting experiences are off-limits, there is nothing stopping travelers going to Suruga from learning about the process and tea in general. Lucky for you, there is a museum within Suruga called Fuji No Kuni Cha No Miyako Museum, full of experiences, whether that be learning, tasting, or eating- all related to tea. Since the museum is within the Makinohara tea plantation, you can still get a good look at an actual tea farm on your way to the museum. With tickets as cheap as 300 yen, you can be introduced to several cultures related to tea, tea making, matcha tasting, and workshops too to make tea yourself. For the aforementioned workshops, you can get the experience of grinding matcha in a stone mill and can bring your own matcha home to enjoy. If matcha isn’t up your alley, you can leisurely enjoy various types of straight green tea while enjoying the sights of the museum. While the ticket is 300 yen to participate in the tea ceremony activity, it is an extra 600 yen to be able to enter the separate tea house. However, that is a small price to pay to be able to participate and learn more about a huge part of Japanese culture! Address: https://maps.app.goo.gl/up2PMEXSk5iJtuAh9 Website: https://tea-museum.jp/ Spring - River Area (March-May) The Suruga area in the spring makes for a wonderful trip with nice weather, tasty food, cool water in the bay, and fun seasonal experiences. While the weather may be too cool to fully indulge in bay activities, the river area of Suruga is the perfect destination for spring. This river area is referred to as the Oi River. Starting from a 3000-meter altitude in the Southern Japan Alps, the water from the river flows through Shizuoka. Due to the river area’s misty climate, multiple tea plantations are accompanied by it, which allows for the best conditions for tea to grow. Tea Farms Being in Japan’s number one tea-producing area, a trip to a tea farm goes without saying. Whether you simply like tea or are a huge enthusiast, people from all different forms of appreciation for tea will find something enjoyable about their visit to one of the tea plantations. Along the Oi River lies a farm called Yamakasho Farm, right at the foot of the Southern Japan Alps. As mentioned earlier, these farms take advantage of the climate from the Oi River, along with the mist that comes from the mountain, all of which help their tea grow. Suruga’s climates are so great for tea production that Yamakasho’s own tea has been presented to the Emperor. On your visit to Yamakasho, you will partake in a tour of the tea plantation, followed by a tour of the tea production factory, and end with some fresh tea to be enjoyed in a traditional Japanese farmhouse. Address: https://maps.app.goo.gl/AQ4Sr56F4yF9YahT6 Website: yamakasho.com Pottery Making Experience With Japan’s vast history of pottery making starting around 10,500 BC, near the river, area you can partake in making your own piece of pottery accompanied by the history of the piece you’ll be making by Mr. Maruyama, who runs the Shitoro-Ware Hikoji Kiln. Being of the fifth generation to run this kiln, you’ll be in the hands of the best of the best to learn how to make a new piece of pottery to take home with you. While Shitoro-ware itself did not originate in 10,500 BC, it still has a long history. From the 12th century, Japan’s Heian period, to the 13th century, which was the Kamakura period, pieces using this process of pottery making were found in Japan, and thus this specific method of pottery making was continued. For about 3300 yen for a 2-hour class, you can choose to make anything from a cup, bowl, plate, and more. Shitoro-yaki is a type of pottery that involves a lot of iron mixed within the clay, which gives it that rich, burnt brownish color, and once it’s fired, it comes out with a natural hue and a nice gloss finish. Since this type of pottery process is meant for tea-based ceramics, this type of clay shrinks hard when in the kiln, protecting the tea from humidity and other outside elements. After you’re done making your pottery, you’ll place it into a kiln, but since it will take a few days to finish, Maruyama offers to ship it to your home if you are out of the country before it’s ready. Address: https://maps.app.goo.gl/tvyJKEZtZax9JpB89 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100046717740582 Kimono Experience With the cooler weather, the spring season makes it a great time to wear kimono comfortably. In Shimada city, you can enjoy a kimono-wearing experience, some tea tasting, and a museum visit all in one for a fee of 4000 yen, all hosted by a volunteer group called “Walk Shimada in a Kimono Promotion Group,” which so far have donated about 300 kimonos for visitors to enjoy trying on. After you’re helped into the kimono of your choice, you can enjoy some green tea, then depart on your walk down Kawagoe Road. The surrounding restored and preserved buildings and scenery make you feel as if you’ve been sent back to the Edo period. During this walk, you can enjoy Japanese sweets and tour Shimada’s City Museum, where you can learn about the history of the Oi River and how people back in the Edo period crossed these rivers and the systems they built to do so. Of course, you can find artworks and literature from artists from this period, giving you a feel of what happened and came from the area you just walked around in. Address: https://maps.app.goo.gl/q3Jn3kjRid8cd2PX7 Tea and Souvenir Shop After all of those tea-based experiences along the river, one location that should be on your list is a visit to the Horai Bridge 897.4 Tea Gift Shop to bring a piece of Suruga back with you. Curious about the name? Leading up to the actual gift shop lies a world record-breaking bridge called Yakunashi, which translates to “no worries.” With a length of 897.4 meters, it makes it the longest wooden bridge in the world (and also quite the hike). Once you make it across the bridge, you’ll meet the 897.4 Tea Gift Shop, which holds varieties of tea, Japanese sweets, and other neat souvenirs. Some include green tea-flavored Coca-Cola, sweets shaped like Japanese teapots, and various other goods. You can even order tea to drink while you browse or get some green tea ice cream. Whether you’re a green tea fan or not, 897.4 is full of tea-related and non-tea-related goods, so there is a little bit of everything for everyone to remember their trip to Suruga’s river area. Address: https://maps.app.goo.gl/PpbvLpCNyHLJfDuU7 Website: http://shimadagreenci-tea.jp/drink-buy/8974chaya.html Summer - Bay Area (June-August) With easy access to the bay, multiple activities are available in Suruga for the summertime to beat the heat. Whether you want to cool off in the water, view nighttime fireworks, or visit a beach, there are multiple ways to keep cool and still have fun during these hot summer months. Fireworks Would it really be a summer trip in Japan if you didn’t participate in at least one fireworks festival? Luckily for you, Suruga has just the event. Being right up against the bay, an area called Nihondaira holds a firework festival every late July, presenting 15,000 huge fireworks that light up Suruga Bay, and surround Mount Fuji in the background. Unlike usual festivals where the fireworks feel as if they are miles away, the fireworks at this festival are so close that they quite literally go over and above your head, coloring every inch of the night sky. Performed close to the Nihondaira Hotel, it gathers a huge crowd of fireworks viewers, so make sure you plan accordingly and read up on the parking/transportation regulations before making plans to attend. Address: https://maps.app.goo.gl/j1GY2b7VEjAZ1rnx9 Website: https://www.minatokappore.jp/ Shizunami Beach Hot during your travels? Looking for a way to cool down before you start your day? Take a trip to Shizunami Beach on the bay, a wide-stretching shore with a stunning view of Mount Fuji and refreshing waters to escape the summer heat for a couple of hours. If you wish to surf, many say that Shizunami is the perfect beach to do so; with gentle waters, subtle waves, and soft ground, even beginners can feel comfortable surfing here. In addition to those gentle, shallow waters, this beach makes for a great and safe travel spot for those with young children. If surfing or swimming isn’t your thing but you still want to visit a beach just to cool off, there are spots for barbecues and picnics, so you can cool off by walking around in the shallow part of the beach for a few, then head back and enjoy some good food on a nice summer day. Also, make sure you don’t miss the small Statue of Liberty at the beachfront for a great photo! Address: https://maps.app.goo.gl/NUypXk99m8QwMGrm6 Website: https://shizuoka-makinohara.com/shizunamikaisuiyokujo/ Fishing/Kayaking Fishing can be done all year round, but many would agree summertime is one of the best times to dig out the old fishing pole and take a stab at reeling in something this year. With its vast bay, Suruga is a perfect destination for fishing. As said earlier, while the opportunity is available all year round, going in the summertime allows you to balance off the hot weather with cool breezes from the sea if you choose to fish and being in the water if you choose to kayak. With over 1000 different species of fish in the waters of Suruga, many come to try their luck at reeling in something, whether that is close-shore fishing or deep-sea fishing. While many can rent a fishing boat for about 7000 yen, Suruga also offers the opportunity to fish while kayaking, combining a hobby with exercise! If you choose to kayak, certain tour guides will take you along routes in the Bay that you can’t reach or see by foot, making it an interesting experience to explore the secrets of Suruga Bay and all that it holds. Website: https://tour.izuadventurefactory.jp/kayak-tour/ Seafood Restaurant Want to do something with the fish you caught out at sea? Being so reliant on the seafood populations in the bay, Suruga has just the place for fishermen or people who just want to enjoy fish from the area! Due to the area being a popular spot to fish, many fishing enthusiasts drive hours just to get to Suruga, then spend all day fishing but don’t want to travel all that distance back just to spend more time cooking what they caught. As a result, a certain restaurant within Suruga came up with the solution to cook the fish people caught and brought to the restaurant so they could enjoy a professional meal from their fish. This restaurant is called Osakana Dining Hiro. So, why not combine two activities into one and spend some time in the summer rays fishing, then enjoy your catch in a cozy Japanese and beach-themed restaurant? Whether your catches are small or big, this restaurant deals with anything you throw their way. However, be warned that prices may vary based on size and your preferences. If you are not the fishing type, don’t worry; this restaurant has plenty of courses for you to be able to taste all different types of seasonal fish caught from Suruga Bay, with affordable prices from 4000 yen for 8 different dishes, and so forth. Address: https://maps.app.goo.gl/CGczKbvirD7PyLJd8 Website: https://osakana-hiro.com/party/ Fall - Mountain Area (September-November) With the heat from summer gone and the cooling breezes back, venture a bit away from the Bay, and Suruga becomes a beautiful symbol of the autumn season with all of its mountains and scenery surrounding you. As the waters of the bay may be too cold this time of year, if you prefer the cool breezes and colorful autumn scenery in the areas nearby, then your trip to Suruga may be best suited for the fall season. Yume no Tsuribashi Suspension Bridge The fall foliage and the perfect weather make the best time of year for visiting a suspension bridge and taking a relaxing stroll through the woods without the stress of being too hot or cold. Near two major mountains, Mount Kurohoshi and Daimugen, Yume no Tsuribashi, or The Bridge of Dreams, is a popular tourist destination. With many making the trip here for the amazing picture opportunities, the long stretch of a walk from one end of the bridge to the other, and the experience of solely walking on a suspension bridge in the first place, being that high up really makes the experience worthwhile! With a 30-minute hike from the parking lot to the actual bridge itself, you can get a good walk in and enjoy the natural air of Shizuoka before reaching the famous spot. Upon reaching the beginning of the bridge, you’ll quickly feel a sense of seclusion, surrounded by beautiful colors of reds and oranges and the teal-colored water 109 meters below. Address: https://maps.app.goo.gl/KbiU49DtNCvzYM4Z7 Yume no Tsuribashi is not the only bridge, however. The mountain areas of Suruga contain multiple bridge-crossing opportunities for hiking enjoyers and/or nature sightseers. If one isn’t enough or if one is out of reach, other bridges nearby consist of the Ikawa Suspension Bridge, connecting you through a path from one mountain to another, or the Sekinosawa Bridge, while not a suspension bridge, it makes for a relaxing hike across such a small seemingly appearing bridge when surrounded by so many trees from the mountains, giving you that isolated in nature experience, away from all the noises of the city. Additionally, there is a bridge that doesn’t require any walking but instead a leisurely train ride. If you’re already nearing the end of your day, this will be the perfect last bridge attraction. If you take any train along the Oigawa line cutting through the mountains, you’ll be able to witness many amazing views above the water and take a ride through the forests on the rainbow bridge. Address: https://maps.app.goo.gl/ccqWLMf4PDWwpx326 Waterfalls Being this deep in the mountains, suspension bridges are not the only thing hidden within the trees. If you head towards the Oma area in Aoi Ward, you’ll find a hidden tourist attraction that consists of a flowing waterfall tucked away in the woods. At Fukuyo Falls, witness cooler temperatures due to being under trees and enclosed in this part of the mountain, and witness about a 100-meter-deep drop for the waterfalls below you. With past travelers saying they’ve encountered monkeys and lizards at this location, you’ll be experiencing nature on a deeper level beyond hiking, but be careful with waterfall locations; everyone should be cautious of slippery rocks and surfaces! Address: https://maps.app.goo.gl/mBJ2kZh2tMHiGheq8 Onsen and Dining If you’re tired from walking and want some time to relax and get something warm to eat, within the mountains lies Sessokyo Onsen Kaikan, a public hot spring combined with a cafeteria. With mineral-rich waters, high temperatures, and a cheap ticket, a quick stop at Sessokyo is well-deserved after all of that hiking and exploring. While the baths may be smaller than your usual onsen experience, it still makes a great pit stop to get you back on your feet, especially with the food choices after you’re done with your bath. With sets that have affordable prices, you can order food such as roast beef, a warm plate of curry, or udon set, or if you want something cold after that hot water, you can order matcha ice cream as well. Address: https://maps.app.goo.gl/y7R1brRbP8BeVn2N6 Website: https://www.sessokyoonsen.com/ Tea farms Thirsty after your hike? Head to Moriuchi farm, just outside Shizuoka city, near the bottom of the mountain ranges. This farm has been through nine generations, with the current Mr. and Mrs. Moriuchi caring for the beautiful green tea leaves, handpicking tea leaves every day. Upon visiting, the two owners teach the process of tea making from the harvest up until it is in a cup at the table. With the plantation surrounded by mountains, it’s no easy job to harvest such vast fields of tea leaves; however, the Moriuchis seem to bear no complaint. All of their effort and love for tea is poured into each cup they prepare. If you take the trip to this plantation, you can taste the tea from their farms while also learning stories and history from a tea farm in operation since the Edo Period. Address: https://maps.app.goo.gl/sh7kd7qsXZvUrDM26 Website: https://www.moriuchitea.com/ Now the Choice is Up to You Whether you go in the Winter, Autumn, or anytime in between, Suruga has everything suited for each season for you to enjoy your trip. Being in such a bountiful area full of resources used across Suruga, but also across the country due to how everything is produced as freshly as possible, you can experience firsthand the area that is deemed Japan’s tea-producing capital and fully understand the importance of Suruga while also having fun. The downtown area of Suruga is most fitting for winter, as the temperatures will not be the best suited for enjoying the bay or tea plantations. But this does not mean you cannot enjoy tea in one of the best tea-producing areas of the country. Moving on to Spring, this time holds many cultural and tea-based experiences along the Oi River, from taking a stroll in a kimono to making some new ceramics for your kitchen. If the bay attracts you to Suruga, the summer season has beaches, fireworks, opportunities to fish in the bay, and all other sorts of water-based activities. In Autumn, Suruga’s mountain area comes to life with beautiful fall colors, making it a fitting time of the year to partake in hiking adventures, find suspension bridges, take trains across huge winding rivers through the woods, and connect with nature on a deeper level. With experiences like tea tasting, tea-centered museums with hands-on workshops, and even calligraphy using the tea resources from the area, the winter season still holds many tea-oriented activities, surely to leave you with a good impression of Suruga. No matter the season, you can rest assured that if you can’t make the trip during a certain season, the next one has plenty to make it a memorable trip! Featured Photo Credit: IamDoctorEgg Ready to experience the healing powers of Suruga? Check out our ultimate itinerary for the area and see it for yourself!!

Arigato Travel

26.11.2024

Big News: Japan Hits 30 Million Visitors in 2024! | Arigato Travel

Japan’s tourism is absolutely booming! According to Kyodo News, over 30 million visitors from around the globe traveled to Japan between January and October this year. That’s not just an impressive number—it’s the fastest pace the country has ever seen for welcoming travelers. We couldn’t be more excited to share this milestone with our readers and guests! After a few quiet years during the pandemic, this incredible rebound is a sign that Japan is officially back on everyone’s bucket list. And honestly, it’s easy to see why! From the rich cultural heritage and stunning natural landscapes to food that’s just out of this world, Japan has something for every kind of traveler. Whether you’re coming for the food, the festivals, the history, or simply the unforgettable hospitality, there’s no better time to visit than now. What's Behind the Record-Breaking Numbers? So, what’s fueling this massive influx of visitors? Data from the Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO) points to a few key reasons. First, Japan has seen a huge surge in travelers from neighboring countries like South Korea, China, and Taiwan, as well as the United States. These regions have long had strong travel ties with Japan, and as restrictions have eased, people are jumping at the chance to explore (or re-explore) this incredible country. Let’s not forget the unbeatable timing of cherry blossom season earlier this year. Sakura season is always a major draw, but this year it felt even more special. After years of travel restrictions, visitors flocked to Japan’s parks, temples, and riversides to soak in the stunning pink blooms. Another factor is Japan’s streamlined travel process. With international travel becoming easier and more convenient, it’s no surprise that people are booking trips in record numbers. Add to that Japan’s reputation for safety, cleanliness, and efficiency, and it’s clear why travelers feel confident choosing Japan as their next destination. Why This Matters to Us at Arigato Travel At Arigato Travel, we’re thrilled to see Japan’s tourism industry thriving like this. It’s not just about the numbers—it’s about the stories, connections, and memories being made. Every time we guide a group through the bustling streets of Tokyo or the serene paths of Kyoto, we’re reminded of how special it is to share Japan’s culture with the world. For us, this milestone is a celebration of what makes Japan unique: the incredible cuisine, the warm hospitality, and the perfect blend of old and new. We know that many travelers are seeking authentic, meaningful experiences, and we’re here to make that happen. From discovering the freshest seafood at Tokyo’s fish markets to learning the secrets of traditional Japanese tea ceremonies, we’re all about creating moments that you’ll treasure forever. Looking Ahead As Japan continues to welcome millions of visitors, we’re also excited to see how travel trends evolve. Sustainable tourism, local experiences, and off-the-beaten-path adventures are becoming more popular than ever. At Arigato Travel, we’re ready to meet these trends head-on by offering unique, immersive tours that highlight Japan’s hidden gems and celebrate its vibrant culture. Thinking about making Japan your next travel destination? Now’s the perfect time to plan your trip. Let us help you explore Japan in a way that’s personal, authentic, and unforgettable. After all, there’s nothing quite like the magic of Japan—come see it for yourself! Featured Photo Credit: Lauren Shannon Want to join these 30 million visitors and come see us? Book your local guide to learn more about Japanese food and culture.

Arigato Travel

25.11.2024

A Taste of Asagaya: Serenity in Western Tokyo | Arigato Travel

Asagaya is a residential neighborhood west of Shinjuku, located 15-20 minutes away from JR Shinjuku station on the Chuo line. Despite not boasting as many attractions as famous areas such as Shibuya or Roppongi, this area of Suginami Ward offers peace of mind as well as entertainment for those passing through while in Tokyo. Today we are going to dive into this sleepy little corner of a hectic city to clue you into some hidden gems and must-see destinations. What to do? Asagaya Shinmeigu Shrine Asagaya Shinmeigu Shrine (阿佐ヶ谷神明宮) is located about 5 minutes from the JR Asagaya station’s east exit. Despite not being as big as other shrines in Tokyo, Asagaya Shinmeigu feels wide and spacious due to its open space and greenery shielding the grounds from the busy traffic and buildings nearby. As one of the oldest shrines in Tokyo at over 1,000 years old, it is known as a place to ward off evil. At this shrine, visitors can take part in “hachinan-yoke,” (八難除), which is a prayer ritual to ward off disasters, especially during unlucky years (yaku-doshi). As well as making offerings at the shrine, visitors can also buy bracelets and charms for good luck in education, driving commuting, and safe pregnancies. Either way, this shrine offers a reprieve from the outside world to reflect on and collect oneself on your travels. Asagaya Shinmeigu Shrine on Google Maps Asagaya Shinmeigu Shrine (Japanese only) Hours of operation: 6:00 am to 5:00 pm daily Admission: free A-San no Niwa A-San no Niwa (Aさんの庭) was originally a Western-style house surrounded by roses and was nicknamed “rose house” and “Totoro’s house,” as locals felt that Totoro (the magical character from a Studio Ghibli movie, would like to live in that sort of place. Sadly, after the owner moved away, the house was burned down in 2009. However, upon learning of what happened to “Totoro’s house,” Hayao Miyazaki, the Ghibli director, designed a house and park to be built where the original once stood, which was reconstructed in 2010. While the iconic house has been turned into a public restroom, the park offers a simple beauty in its suburban neighborhood. It features a sun tiger pump well (which is currently not in operation) and an open deck patio area for people to sit and be surrounded by the greenery around them. This park charm allows visitors to feel the easy-going atmosphere Ghibli movies are known for. As a heads up, this park is a 15 to 20-minute walk northeast of JR Asagaya, but worth the time and effort for those who want to see Hayao Miyazaki’s artistic touch firsthand. A-San no Niwa on Google Maps A-San no Niwa on the Suginami Ward site (Japanese only) Hours of operation: Open 24 hours Admission: free Asagaya Pearl Center Asagaya Pearl Center is the biggest shopping area in the neighborhood, offering over half a kilometer’s worth of eateries, shops, and services to locals and visitors alike. Located at the southern end of JR Asagaya station, you’ll be protected from the hot sun or cold winds with the window roof covering the pedestrian pathway as visitors go about shopping. From coffee shops, grocery stores, gyms, and clothing stores to ethnic restaurants (both Japanese and overseas), visitors have access to almost anything they want at Asagaya Pearl Center. Asagaya Pearl Harbor on Google Maps Asagaya Pearl Center on Suginami Tokyo site (English) Hours of operations: 9:00 am to 7:00 pm daily Laputa Asagaya Laputa Asagaya is a theater tucked away in a corner of Suginami’s Asagaya neighborhood that specializes in playing old Japanese films, mostly from the 1950s and 1960s. The staff there speaks some English and will be happy to help answer questions about the films playing on its second floor. There’s also a neat gift shop located on the first floor. The entrance is hidden under the shade of nearby trees, making it a hidden gem if you’re interested in old Japanese films, though most of them won’t have English subtitles. Laputa Asagaya is located 10 minutes on foot northwest of JR Asagaya station. Laputa Asagaya on Google Maps Laputa Asagaya site (Japanese only) Hours of operations: 10:30 am to 11:00 pm daily What to eat? Tsukishima Monjayaki Located near the entrance of the Asagaya Pearl Center, Tsukishima Monjayaki Okoge (月島もんじゃおこげ) offers guests a traditional Japanese-style dish, the aforementioned monjayaki. Monjayaki is a mix of ingredients (usually vegetables with mixed meats like pork, chicken, etc.) and a liquid batter that is fried on a skillet at your table, with staff mixing the ingredients in front of guests. The result is a fresh hot meal that’s easy to cut up with your plate’s own mini-spatula, but surprisingly filling once it’s finished. Tsukishima Monja Okoge on Google Maps Tsukishima Monja Okoge on Tabelog (English) Hours of operation: 10:45 am to 11:00 pm weekdays, 10:30 am to 11:00 pm weekends Taiyaki Tomoean Taiyaki (たい焼き) is a fish-shaped pancake pastry filled with red bean (azuki) or other sweets. Located further into Asagaya Pearl Center, this taiyaki booth offers the famous Japanese snack, along with its signature shiratama-taiyaki (taiyaki with a small white mochi ball inside). Tomoean also offers visitors rennyu-mochi (練乳餅), which is mochi (soft rice cakes) mixed with milk along with shaved ice (かき氷). Their Renyu-mochi is on sale from May until October to help beat the heat. Anyone with a sweet tooth for Japanese desserts will be spoiled for choice here. Taiyaki Tomoean on Google Maps Taiyaki Tomoean site (Japanese only) Hours of operation: 11:00 am to 7:30 pm Tuesday to Sunday (closed on Monday) Pan no Tajima Along with Japanese specialties like monjayaki, there are many restaurants visitors choose to enjoy a meal at, a select few of which we’ll mention here today. The first one is “Pan no Tajima,” which serves small loaves of bread with special added ingredients. It’s similar to the peanut butter or red bean bread loaves that can be bought at convenience stores in Japan but of much higher quality. Ranging from sweets such as blueberries or chocolate to more traditional foods like potato salad or meats such as beef or fish, guests can find a quick snack of their choice here. Pan no Tajima on Instagram (Japanese only) Pan no Tajima on Google Maps Hours of operation: 8:00 am to 7:00 pm daily Tik.Top Biryani Restaurant If Indian-Nepalese dishes are on the menu while in Asagaya, visitors can try curry or biryani for lunch if they want. Further down in Asagaya Pearl Center, this restaurant offers the tried-and-true favorites of naan curry to savory samosa snacks. This restaurant makes dishes from South and Southeast Asia, ensuring anyone with a taste for food from those regions will have something to enjoy when they sit down for a meal. Tik.Top Biryani Restaurant on Google Maps Tik.Top Biryani Restaurant on Tabelog (Japanese only) Hours of operation: 11:00 am to 10:30 pm daily Asagaya in western Tokyo has many things for visitors to indulge in, such as the restaurants and shops in Asagaya Pearl Center to its famous shrine, the Asagaya Shinmeigu. Some locales are more of an acquired taste, like Laputa Asagaya with its showing of classic Japanese films. There is also the hidden gem that is A-San no Niwa, a park designed by the legendary Hayao Miyazaki. While not as famous as Odaiba or Akihabara, Asagaya offers plenty of history and leisurely activities for those wanting to unwind and get away from the hustle and bustle of big city life in Tokyo. Featured Photo Credit: Joseph Magtibay Coming to Tokyo to check out Asagaya and want to see more of the city? Book your local guide to learn more about Japanese food and culture.

Arigato Travel

18.11.2024

A Taste of Ariake: Relaxing by Tokyo Bay | Arigato Travel

Ariake is a district in Koto, Tokyo that is best known as the home of Tokyo Big Sight and plenty of venues for concerts and sporting events, such as the Ariake Coliseum and Ariake Arena. But on top of that, Ariake also boasts some fine eateries and tons of fun activities. While most of Tokyo can have a congested and crowded image, Ariake stands out as a place where people can enjoy the bay breeze with lots of open space to enjoy major events. Come check out why Ariake, near Toyosu and Odaiba, is a great spot to get fresh air and unwind after a hard day (or week) in Tokyo. What to do? Tokyo Big Sight Tokyo Big Sight is a large building with a unique shape (think of four upside-down gold trapezoids next to each other) overlooking Tokyo Bay. With over 300,000 square meters of floor space, Tokyo Big Sight has served as one of Tokyo’s most accessible venues, hosting events such as the Tokyo International Toy Day (usually held in June) and Comiket, a comic book convention held biannually (in August and December) that attracts hobbyists from all over the world. Even when there's no convention going on, Tokyo Big Sight offers free entrance and plenty of restaurants inside for visitors to eat in. It’s a great place to get away from the heat or the cold and take it easy on a day out. Tokyo Big Sight has also incorporated the Ariake Gymnastics Center, which was used in the 2020 Tokyo Olympics. It has been rebranded as ‘Ariake GYM-EX’, adding more space for future exhibits that will draw in more fun events in the future. Location: Tokyo Big Sight on Google Maps Website: Tokyo Big Sight official website (English) Hours of operation: 8:00 am to 8:00 pm daily Admission: free (outside of events occurring there) Tokyo Water Science Museum Tokyo Water Science Museum is a kid-friendly 3-story free museum where visitors can interact with exhibits about water and learn where it’s collected and purified for use in society. The staff and exhibits are all in Japanese, but there are enough English headers under the separate areas to describe what they’re about. There’s an “aqua laboratory” where visitors can experiment with how water moves under certain conditions and how often we use it daily. The museum has a 10-minute 3D movie (with no dialogue) on the 3rd floor showing how water from forests and dams gets filtered and sent to homes and public facilities. All of this is showcased with a semi-panoramic view. And of course, there’s the main lobby’s interactive waterworks where children (and their parents) can enjoy spraying water at targets during their day at the museum. Location: Tokyo Water Science Museum on Google Maps Info Pamphlet: Tokyo Water Science Museum official pdf file (English) Hours of Operation: 9:00 am to 5:30 pm (closed on Mondays and holidays) Admission: free Small Worlds Tokyo Another museum in Ariake worth checking out is Small Worlds Tokyo (or Small Worlds Miniature Museum). It features miniature replicas not only of famous places in Japan and around the world in its “Global Village” exhibit but also of the popular anime series, Neon Genesis Evangelion. Replicas of the giant mechs and locations featured in the franchise are on full display. Located less than 10 minutes away from Ariake-Tennis-no-Mori station on the Yurikamone line, visitors will go through a tunnel to pass admissions and marvel at all the meticulous details put into each display. From the recreation of the Kansai International Airport to the “Nightlife in Japan” exhibit, children and adults can take their time to enjoy this museum. Location: Small Worlds Tokyo on Google Maps Website: Small World Tokyo official website (English) Hours of Operations: 9:00 am to 7:00 pm daily Admission: 3,200 yen (adults) What to eat? Murata Located on the 2nd floor in the Ariake Park Building right across from Kokusai-Tenjijo station, Murata (むら田) is a traditional Japanese restaurant, offering set meals (lunch is cash only) and English-speaking staff. This restaurant has Japanese staples such as sashimi (thinly cut raw fish slices), tempura (deep-fried battered seafood and vegetables), and negitoro (green onion and fatty tuna). For those who love Japanese food in a serene setting, be sure to check out this restaurant near the Washington Hotel in Ariake. Location: Murata on Google Maps Website: Murata on the Tokyo Big Sight website (Japanese only) Hours of Operation: 11:30 am to 2:00 pm, 4:30 pm to 11:00 pm daily Ariake Garden Located between Ariake station and Kokusai-Tenjijo station, Ariake Garden is the go-to mall in the area for eating and shopping. Along with a tax-free shop for foreigners, you'll be spoiled for choice when it comes to the food court on the 5th floor. The Ariake Diner food court offers your standard selection of Japanese restaurants serving ton-katsu (Kim-katsu-tei) and curry (Maji-curry). But you also have the option to walk over to the Ariake Dining Street for sushi (Aburi) or some American food at TGI Fridays, making this a great spot to eat and relax in the mall. Location: Ariake Garden on Google Maps Website: Ariake Garden official website (English) Hours of Operation: 10:00 am to 9:00 pm daily Hobson’s Ice Cream Parlor If you’re in the mood for something cold or sweet, you can try Hobson’s Ice Cream Parlor on Ariake Garden’s 5th floor right next to Pancake House. This ice cream parlor specializes in making fruit parfaits, using mango, melon, strawberries, and other types of berries. Along with parfaits, Hobson’s also makes strawberry zuccotto (an Italian dessert made with cake and ice cream) and strawberry Christmas cake once December approaches. Regardless of the season, there’s always a sweet ice cream treat at the Ariake Diner when this place opens up. Location: Hobson's Ice Cream Parlor on Google Maps Instagram: Hobson's Ice Cream Parlor (Japanese only) Hours of Operation: 11:00 am to 10:30 pm daily (last order at 10:00 pm) Taking a trip down to Ariake is a good idea if you’re looking for either outdoor activities at the Ariake Tennis Park (which was a venue for the 2020 Olympic Games) or just want to see a side of Tokyo that isn’t a part of the hustle and bustle of the city center. Outside of a massive convention, you won’t feel claustrophobic in Ariake with its wide open spaces and close proximity to Tokyo Bay. And while you’re at it, feel free to grab a bite to eat at one of the many eateries within a stone’s throw of the stations here. Visiting Ariake is a great way to treat yourself to a chill day in Tokyo. Featured Photo Credit: Joseph Magtibay On a trip to Tokyo? Book your local guide to learn more about Japanese food and culture.

Arigato Travel

16.11.2024

Interview With Taiko-Lab Studios | Arigato Travel

The taiko drums are an integral part of Japanese music and culture and have been for over 2000 years. Interestingly, the word Taiko can refer to a Japanese drumming style, the music from the drums, a group of musicians who play the drums, and even the actual drum itself. In short, Taiko is not just the well-known drums, it is everything and everyone involved in the performance. When other Japanese performance art forms like Noh and Kabuki began flourishing, the taiko drums also started gaining popularity as an accompaniment to these performances. Soon, they also became associated with religious ceremonies and festivals. Today, the Taiko drums are recognized as an amazing music style and performance art, in its own right. We are super excited to introduce you to Taiko-Lab, a music studio that is based in Tokyo. Taiko-Lab offers guests an opportunity to participate in fun, energetic Taiko learning workshops. Not only is it an amazing way of learning a Japanese art form, but it also gives a deeper insight into Japanese culture. Let’s chat with the Taiko-Lab team to learn more about them. Can you briefly introduce yourself and Taiko-Lab? Also, we'd love to hear a little background about Taiko. How did it originate and what is its cultural significance? At TAIKO-LAB, we believe in our slogan “Taiko that resonates with the heart and body for everyone”. We strive to share the joy of traditional Japanese drumming with people all over the world. The origins of taiko drums date back over 10,000 years. You’ll see Taiko drums in nearly every temple and shrine, and this is because taiko is more than just an instrument for the Japanese people; it’s a deep cultural symbol. Please tell us more about what kind of workshops or events you conduct at Taiko-Lab. At TAIKO-LAB, you can learn the traditional Japanese art of Taiko drumming directly from professional Taiko instructors. Does one need to have any specific knowledge about music to apply for a course at Taiko-Lab? Or can even amateurs join these courses? No musical experience is necessary. Beginners are more than welcome to join and have fun! Is there an age limit for joining the course? Also, do you conduct your classes in Japanese as well as in English? Our lessons are open to all ages, from 3 to 100! You can enjoy learning Taiko in either Japanese or English. Are your programs only for locals and residents of Japan? Do you have any events or workshops for tourists, who wish to participate in a unique experience during their short holiday in Japan? Both tourists and residents of Japan are welcome to participate. * Please note that trial classes for the regular courses are only for residents of Japan, they are not available to tourists. Where are your workshops or courses currently conducted? Do you plan to start in other cities too? We offer Taiko lessons in Tokyo (Aoyama and Akihabara), Kyoto, Osaka, and Kobe. What can one expect from participating in a Taiko-Lab event? At TAIKO-LAB, our 60-minute trial program introduces you to the basics of Taiko drumming, teaches traditional rhythms, and lets you complete a simple song. The experience concludes with a performance by a professional Taiko instructor. Thank you for taking the time to answer our questions. Is there anything else you would like to share with our readers? We’d love for you to experience Japanese culture through our authentic Taiko drums. We look forward to seeing you! Thank you for your time. Many of our readers are already aware of the iconic Taiko drum performances, and we are sure that they will find this information very helpful if they too want to take part in such an invigorating part of Japanese culture. Where To Find Taiko-Lab: Website: https://www.taikolab.com/english/ Instagram: ＠taikolab_aoyama Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/taikolab.aoyama/ X/Twitter: @taikolabjp Featured Photo Credit: Taiko-Lab Studios Want to have more fun on your trip to Japan? Join a culinary tour and discover the country as a local!

Arigato Travel

14.11.2024

Tokyo: World’s Best Large City 2024 | Arigato Travel

Tokyo recently earned the title of “World’s Best Large City” in Conde Nast Traveler’s 2024 reader survey, marking the sixth time Japan’s capital has received this prestigious recognition. The survey, which excludes U.S. cities and has been conducted since 1988, drew over 575,000 votes in Tokyo’s favor, highlighting the city’s global appeal. Tokyo previously held the top spot three years ago, and this year’s win reaffirms the city’s place as a favorite destination among international travelers. The survey, part of Conde Nast Traveler’s U.S. edition with a readership of around 3.5 million, caters to high-end travelers seeking curated information on top travel destinations, accommodations, restaurants, shopping, and cultural activities. Following Tokyo, the survey ranked Singapore as the second-best large city, with Sydney, Cape Town, and Vienna rounding out the top five. Officials from Tokyo’s Bureau of Industrial and Labor Affairs attribute this success to strategic promotional efforts focused on showcasing Tokyo’s food, culture, and unique nighttime attractions, which are made possible by the city’s strong safety record. These initiatives target high-spending international tourists, who are drawn to Tokyo’s blend of traditional and modern experiences. “The No. 1 ranking is the result of our tourism promotion activities, projects to improve the environment to receive travelers and other efforts,” a bureau official remarked, expressing pride in the city’s accomplishment. Tokyo Governor Yuriko Koike echoed this sentiment, celebrating Tokyo’s eclectic mix of old and new. She highlighted the coexistence of traditional shrines and temples with cutting-edge anime culture and the latest pop trends, which together create a unique charm that resonates with visitors worldwide.

Arigato Travel

11.11.2024

Shichi-Go-San: Japan’s Celebration of Childhood Milestones | Arigato Travel

In Japan, there’s a cherished tradition taking place every November when temples and shrines fill with brightly dressed children, proud parents, and an air of festivity. This celebration is Shichi-Go-San — a longstanding Japanese tradition that honors children who have reached the special ages of 3, 5, and 7. Families mark this occasion with visits to shrines, beautiful outfits, and prayers for the health and happiness of their little ones. Though it's a tradition deeply rooted in history, Shichi-Go-San today is a beautiful blend of old customs and modern family life. The Origins of Shichi-Go-San Shichi-Go-San, which literally means

Arigato Travel

08.11.2024

Things to do in Kyoto in November 2024 | Arigato Travel

As the leaves transform into stunning colors of red and gold, November in Kyoto brings a magical atmosphere that invites exploration. View the scenic maple leaves in the garden of some of the best temples in Kyoto, try out the seasonal food that is the freshest in Kyoto, and embrace traditional Japanese cultural experiences. Trust me when I say that there’s no shortage of things to do. Here are some highlights to make your November trip to Kyoto unforgettable. Eikando Momiji Light-up Festival First up on your autumn adventure is Momiji viewing, if you ask me this is quite the quintessential Kyoto experience. Momiji, literally translating to “Red Leaves”, are maple leaves in Autumn. Known for its stunning gardens, temples, and shrines, Kyoto is a prime location for viewing the multicolored trees that populate the Kyoto landscape for the months of fall. Not to mention, the city’s rich history and well-preserved landscapes provide the perfect backdrop for nature's colorful art show. And did you know there is a festival at Eikando where the maple leaves are lit up and you get to see the leaves glow in front of your eyes? Eikando has long been recognized as a famous spot for autumn leaves. Its beauty is so renowned that it is referenced in the Kokin Wakashu (Collection of Ancient and Modern Poems) as the one and only “Momiji of Eikando.” During the light-up festival, 3,000 trees surrounding the temple grounds will be lit up by perfectly placed light that accentuates the beauty created by this time of year. The illuminated autumn leaves around the Hojo Pond are particularly breathtaking. So grab your camera or even just your phone and enjoy nature’s colorful art show at Eikando. Date: November 11, 2024 to December 1, 2024 Location: 48 Eikando-cho, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto Entry Fee: 700 Yen Website: Eikando Official Website Try Chestnut Ice-cream at the Hundred-years-old Kyoto Shop When November rolls around, it’s time to indulge in what the locals would call, “shokuyoku no aki (食欲の秋)”, or the appetite of autumn. This season is famous for its delicious seasonal food, and you can’t visit Kyoto without trying some of the local favorites. Just like how you might connect Autumn with pumpkin spice, Japanese people connect Autumn with foods made with kuri (chestnuts). During Autumn, Hayashi Mansyodo starts selling their famous chestnut ice cream. This rich frosty treat comes with two layers, one being the sweet chestnut paste and the other vanilla. The fragrant paste and fresh cream create a richly flavored ice cream that fills your mouth with the aroma of this beloved seasonal nut. While the mildly sweet vanilla ice cream enhances the gentle sweetness of the dish as a whole. Enjoy the cold, smooth taste of Hayashi Mansyodo’s sweet chestnuts. Date: Entire November, while stock lasts Location: 3 Otabimiyamotocho, Shijo-dori Teramachi Higashi-iru , Shimogyo-ku, Kyoto Website: Hayashi Mansyodo Official Website Thinking of trying all sorts of delicacies in Kyoto? Check out our Food Tours in Kyoto to give you a sense of taste adventure in Kyoto! Sagano Autumn Sightseeing Train For those who love a good scenic ride, hop aboard the Sagano Sightseeing Train this November! This train journey takes you through the breathtaking Arashiyama countryside, where you can enjoy the stunning views of the Hozu River and the surrounding mountains. Since it’s Autumn, at various locations along the nighttime journey, lighting devices are installed to illuminate the vivid autumn leaves that color the valley along the river, creating an almost magical scenery. The train’s large windows allow for unobstructed views, so get ready to take many photos, or just simply sit back and enjoy the ride. Bookings can be made a month prior, so now is the best time to reserve a spot. It’s a perfect and laid-back way to appreciate the beauty of Kyoto’s autumn landscape! Date: Light-up period from October 12 to December 29, 2024. Every day from 4:30 pm. Location: Light-up stations operate between Torokko Arashiyama Station and Torokko Kameoka Station. Website: Sagano Sightseeing Train Official Website Yokai Matsuri at Toei Kyoto Studio Park Hey, October may be over but are you still feeling the urge to join in on that chilly, spooky season spirit? Fear not, as the Yokai Matsuri (Monster’s Festival) at Toei Kyoto Studio Park is keeping the creeps alive all the way into November! This festival celebrates Japan’s fascinating folklore of Yokai, featuring all sorts of mythical creatures and ghosts. Participate in “The Night Parade of One Hundred Demons,” a procession of countless traditional Japanese creatures that are said to walk among us again this one night! It’s here that you will get to experience all the different monsters for yourself, and you can even dress up and join the parade! It’s a fantastic opportunity to dive into Japanese culture while having a little spooky fun. Date: Until December 8, 2024 Location: 10 Uzumasa Higashihachiokacho, Ukyo-ku, Kyoto-shi Tickets and Website: Toei Kyoto Studio Park Official Website Gion Maiko Dance: Grace and Tradition No visit to Kyoto is complete without witnessing the grace of the traditional Gion Maiko Dance. The Gion Higashi district is renowned for its traditions and rich history. Here, you can catch a glimpse of the exquisite performances by maiko, the apprentice geisha, who showcase their skills in dance and music. During November in the Gion Higashi District, there is a special performance where you can experience this traditional Japanese culture. You can see a performance featuring an original script that includes a medley and dances performed by the local Maiko. This event is unique among the five geisha districts in Kyoto, as it is the only dance performance held in autumn, making it a cherished tradition that attracts many domestic and international visitors. Date: November 1, 2024, to November 10, 2024, with two shows per day. Location: Gion Kaikan Theatre, 323 Gionmachi Kitagawa, Higashiyama-ku, Kyōto-shi Tickets and Website: Gion Higashi Official Website. Ohitaki Fire Matsuri at Kifune Shrine Witness the annual tradition of the Ohitaki Fire Matsuri at Kifune Shrine, a festival held every 7th of November to cleanse the impurities and defilement of the earth. This ancient event features the lighting of large bonfires, creating a mesmerizing display of flickering flames against the night sky. Visitors can participate in the traditional ritual of writing their wishes on wooden plaques/sticks, which are then cast into the flames as a symbolic offering. It’s an unforgettable experience that combines spirituality with the warmth and wishes of the community. Plus, the magical atmosphere surrounded by the fiery glow is perfect for capturing those memorable photos in Kyoto! Date: November 7, 2024 from 11AM Location: 180, Kurama kibunecho, Sakyo-ku Kyoto-shi , Kyoto, 601-1112 Official Website: https://kifunejinja.jp Le Marche: A French-Style Sunday Market If you’re looking for a unique way to spend a Sunday in November, head to the Institut Français Kansai in Hyakumanben, where they host Le Marche once a month on Sundays. This vibrant market is reminiscent of a French market, filled with fresh vegetables and fruits arranged in a rainbow of colors. The garden and terrace come alive with the theme of “Food Meets Art,” offering not just organic seasonal produce but also carefully selected gourmet ingredients and crafts. While enjoying delightful live performances by local artists, you can savor freshly made crêpes and chat with friends on the terrace of Le Café. It’s a wonderful way to enjoy a leisurely Sunday, complete with the charm and flavor of France right in the heart of Kyoto! Date: November 10, 2024, from 10 AM to 4 PM Location: 8 Izumidono-cho, Yoshida, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto, 606-8301 Official Website: Institut Francais Tenjin-san Market: A Treasure Trove at Kitano Tenmangu Shrine On the 25th of November, Kyoto will have its Tenjin-san flea market held at Kitano Tenmangu Shrine. With as many as 1,000 stalls lining the shrine and surrounding areas, this market is a treasure trove of second-hand kimonos, antiques, pottery, and unique curiosities. You can easily spend hours browsing through the various local shops, all while enjoying delicious snacks from various food stalls selling fresh fruits and vegetables. This market is not only a fantastic shopping experience but also a great reason to visit one of Kyoto’s most beloved shrines. Date: November 25, 2024 Location: Bakurocho, Kamigyo Ward, Kyoto Official Website: https://kitanotenmangu.or.jp With November approaching, there are things to do for everyone, be it scenic views, delicious foods, or just embracing the Japanese tradition. In addition, the weather in Kyoto for this month is so comfortable that you won’t regret going out all the time, whether you are walking or renting a bicycle, it is simply enjoyable everywhere. So be sure to cherish the perfect weather and check out all these fantastic seasonal things you can do in Kyoto to make your trip unforgettable! Feature photo credit: AXP Photography If you're coming to Kyoto to check any of these events out, why not join a culinary tour and discover the city as a local?

Arigato Travel

01.11.2024

Bunka no Hi: A Celebration of Japanese Culture | Arigato Travel

Every year on November 3rd, Japan celebrates Bunka no Hi (文化の日), or Culture Day. This national holiday gives an opportunity for the Japanese people to celebrate their culture, historical achievements, and artistic creativity. It's a day made to appreciate the richness of the diverse cultural heritage and provides a moment for reflection on the contributions of Japanese culture, encourages the promotion of art and education, and showcases modern and traditional talents. Let's dive into how this day came to be and how you can join in on appreciating all that Japan has to offer, and maybe Culture Day will become your favorite holiday too! The History of Bunka no Hi Bunka no Hi traces its roots back to Meiji Setsu (明治節), a holiday founded in 1927 to celebrate the birthday of Emperor Meiji, who reigned from 1867 to 1912. Emperor Meiji was a key figure in Japan’s modernization and transformation from a feudal society into a more progressive and industrialized nation. However, post-World War II, Japan underwent a major transformation. In 1948, Bunka no Hi replaced Meiji Setsu as part of the country's post-war reforms, acknowledging the significance of culture and peace in reconstructing a prosperous and amicable society. The Prestigious Order of Culture Award One of the major highlights of Culture Day is the presentation of the Order of Culture (文化勲章, Bunka Kunshō) by the Emperor of Japan. This prestigious honor is awarded to individuals who have made exceptional contributions to advancing Japanese culture, the arts, and academia. Recipients can be from any discipline whether it's literature, science, music, or even technological change. The award ceremony, held at the Imperial Palace, is a formal and significant event in the national calendar, often receiving media attention for its celebration of Japanese talent and genius. How do People Celebrate Bunka no Hi? While the official ceremonies, such as the Order of Culture award presentation, take place in Tokyo, Bunka no Hi is widely celebrated throughout Japan. Schools, museums, and cultural institutions host a variety of events aimed at highlighting Japan’s artistic and academic achievements. Here’s how people across Japan celebrate the day: Cultural Exhibitions and Festivals Across the country, various exhibitions and festivals are organized to showcase Japan’s artistic talents. Museums and galleries hold special exhibitions that highlight traditional crafts like origami, ikebana (flower arranging), sado (tea ceremony), and shodo (calligraphy). Many of these events are free to the public or discounted, encouraging everyone to engage with the arts. Additionally, local communities often host bunka-sai (文化祭), or cultural festivals, which include everything from theater performances to culinary showcases, dance presentations, and music concerts. These festivals are lively and interactive, offering visitors a chance to try hands-on activities, watch live performances, and sample traditional Japanese foods. School and University Cultural Festivals Japanese schools, from elementary to universities, often hold their cultural festivals, known as gakuensai (学園祭), in the days leading up to and around Culture Day. Students take the lead in organizing these events, which showcase their talents in music, theater, visual arts, and creative writing. These school festivals are open to the public and are highly anticipated by students and parents alike. During these festivals, classrooms are transformed into exhibits, cafés, or stages for performances. You might find students playing in bands, putting on theater productions, or hosting traditional tea ceremonies for visitors. The energy of these school events reflects the importance of creativity and self-expression within Japanese education. Parades and outdoor performances Many cities and towns hold parades to celebrate Culture Day, often featuring traditional taiko drumming, martial arts demonstrations like kendo and aikido, and displays of traditional Japanese dress, such as kimono and yukata. These parades celebrate both Japan’s historical heritage and its vibrant modern culture, with participants often blending traditional customs with contemporary arts. Tokyo’s Meiji Shrine Autumn Festival is one of the most notable events during Bunka no Hi. The festival includes classical Japanese performances, such as bugaku (ancient court dance) and noh (classical theater), set against the serene backdrop of the Meiji Shrine. The cultural richness of these performances brings visitors from across Japan and beyond. Museums and Art Galleries: Free Admission Many of Japan’s public museums and art galleries offer free or discounted admission on Bunka no Hi, allowing people from all walks of life to engage with Japan’s artistic and historical treasures. The Tokyo National Museum, Kyoto National Museum, and National Museum of Nature and Science are some of the institutions that open their doors for free or at a reduced rate, making it an ideal day for families and students to explore the cultural landmarks of Japan. You can find more information here. Bunka no Hi is more than just a national holiday; it’s a celebration of the past and present in Japan. From its ancient artistic traditions to modern scientific achievements, the day embodies the country’s respect for creativity, learning, and cultural harmony. Whether through award ceremonies, festivals, parades, or educational events, Bunka no Hi provides an opportunity for everyone to celebrate the diverse cultural fabric that makes Japan unique. It’s a day that reminds us of the power of culture to connect the past and the future while fostering a society built on peace and understanding. Featured Photo Credit: Shubert Ciencia Want to have more fun on your trip to Japan? Join a culinary tour and discover the country as a local!

Arigato Travel

31.10.2024

Things to do in Tokyo in November 2024 | Arigato Travel

Tokyo in November is a captivating blend of autumnal beauty and cultural richness. The city transforms with the changing seasons, as parks and gardens showcase stunning red and golden leaves. Visitors can savor seasonal delicacies, attend cultural festivals, and bask in the glow of citywide illuminations. With comfortable weather and fewer tourists, it's an ideal time to explore Tokyo's diverse attractions and immerse yourself in its unique charm. From breathtaking firework competitions and vibrant street dance events to the tranquil beauty of chrysanthemum exhibitions, Tokyo offers something unforgettable for every type of traveler. Autumn Rose Festival While Tokyo is often celebrated for its autumn leaves, the Autumn Rose Festival at Kyu-Furukawa Gardens offers another side of autumn beauty—roses in full bloom. Explore the meticulously maintained gardens filled with vibrant roses in shades of pink, red, and white. The gardens provide a serene escape from the bustling city, and during the festival, you can experience seasonal displays and learn about the various varieties of roses on show. Admission: ¥150 Date: October 5th - November 8th, 2024 Location: Kyu-Furukawa Gardens Time: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM Website: Autumn Rose Festival Mt. Takao Autumn Leaves Festival Escape the hustle and bustle of the city and soak in the autumn beauty at the Mt. Takao Autumn Leaves Festival. The surrounding mountains burst with hues of red, orange, and yellow, offering breathtaking views. The festival itself includes cultural performances, food stalls, and traditional music, providing the perfect blend of natural beauty and cultural immersion. A visit to Mt. Takao is a perfect way to reconnect with nature and experience Japan's spectacular autumn landscapes. Admission: Free Date: October 26th - December 8th, 2024 Location: Mount Takao Website: Mt. Takao Autumn Leaves Festival Tokyo Metropolitan Tourism Chrysanthemum Exhibition Join in on celebrating the beauty of Japan's imperial flower at the Tokyo Metropolitan Tourism Chrysanthemum Exhibition. Held in the scenic Hibiya Park, this event showcases a stunning array of chrysanthemums — arranged in both traditional and contemporary styles. Wander through the exhibition and marvel at the meticulous arrangements that reflect the artistry and skill of Japanese horticulture. It's a peaceful, beautiful way to enjoy one of Japan's symbolic flowers. Admission: Free Date: November 1st - 10th, 2024 Location: Hibiya Park Time: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM Meiji Jingū Shrine Yabusame Step back in time and witness a captivating demonstration of Japan's samurai heritage at the Meiji Jingū Shrine Yabusame event. Yabusame is the traditional art of horseback archery, in which riders shoot arrows at targets while galloping on horseback. This rare event, set against the tranquil and spiritual backdrop of the Meiji Jingū Shrine, is a mesmerizing way to experience Japanese culture firsthand. You won't want to miss this stunning blend of skill, tradition, and history. Admission: Free Date: November 3rd, 2024 Location: Meiji Jingū Shrine Time: 1:00 PM Website: Meiji Jingū Shrine Yabusame Tori-no-Ichi Fair Tori-no-Ichi Fair is a centuries-old festival that embodies the spirit of prosperity and good fortune. Held on the

Arigato Travel

29.10.2024

Momiji Manju: A Taste of Tradition | Arigato Travel

Do you have a sweet tooth? A curiosity about traditional Japanese culture? Or perhaps an eye for culinary aesthetics? If you’ve said yes to any of the above, you are definitely in for a treat. Nestled in the heart of Hiroshima’s culinary traditions is a confectionery definitely worth traveling for—the elegant Momiji Manju. Served hot and freshly steamed, this regional delicacy in the shape of a maple leaf (Momiji is the Japanese word for maple leaf), makes for the perfect snack while strolling the streets of Hiroshima. But what’s so special about this treat and what makes it different from the other traditional sweets out there? What is Manju? Exploring Japanese Culinary Delights Before unwrapping the secrets behind its craftsmanship, flavors, and cultural significance—we must ask what is a manju anyway? The manju is a classic staple in the world of traditional Japanese sweets. It is made using simple ingredients such as rice, flour, or buckwheat, and it is commonly enjoyed with a warm cup of green tea. But don’t let its simplicity fool you! Although not as complex as other sweets, the manju is not something to overlook while in Japan. Combined with a sweet red bean filling (also known as anko), the manju transforms into an unforgettable culinary treat. That’s not all… If you’ve explored Japan before, you may have noticed that manju often comes in different shapes and sizes. In fact, there are hundreds of variations to be sampled all across Japan, and the most iconic and beloved by locals is the Momiji Manju. All About Momiji Manju Japan is known for its love of the four seasons. As the months go by, you’ll notice the change not only in nature but even in food. This confectionery is one example of Japan’s fascination with the autumn season. It is named as such because of its maple leaf shape. But unlike the crimson and gold-colored leaves, the Momiji Manju can be enjoyed year-round. Traditionally, it is steamed and commonly filled with sweet red bean paste—just like its standard variant. But today, you can find a multitude of unique flavors and interesting twists to this traditional recipe. Aside from chocolate, matcha, and custard, Hiroshima’s flagship stores offer flavors such as cream cheese and lemon. Specialty manju stores also serve deep-fried versions, considered a novelty even here in Japan. Through a fusion of both Western and traditional patisserie techniques, these stores bridge the culinary gap between Japan and the rest of the world. Truly the perfect experience for anyone with an adventurous palate! Here’s a humble list of must-visit Momiji Manju shops in Hiroshima and Miyajima Island: Momijido Nishikido Takatsudo The History of Momiji Manju The exact origin is difficult to trace, but one thing is certain: it is a work of art. It is said that the first Momiji Manju was created by artisans who took inspiration from the beauty of the changing seasons—particularly, the vibrant hues of the autumn leaves. Through their culinary creations, they wished to represent nature’s flow and the ephemeral beauty of life… Who knew that such a deep and reflective history could be borne by such a sweet and simple treat? Though it isn’t clear when and where it was created, it has become an irreplaceable part of Hiroshima’s cultural history and is now considered a symbol of the region itself. Indulging in Momiji Manju isn't just about enjoying a sweet treat; it's an invitation to delve into the rich tapestry of Japanese culture and the century-old traditions of Hiroshima. While you wander the streets of this historic city, why not let the enticing freshly steamed scent be your guide to an exciting culinary adventure? Those with a penchant for unique flavors and an appetite for exploration should highly consider making their way to Hiroshima. Immerse yourself in the world of Momiji Manju, where each bite unfolds a narrative of artistry, innovation, and a deep appreciation for the ever-changing seasons. Embark on this culinary journey, relish the flavors that encapsulate the culture of Hiroshima, and allow your taste buds to revel in the joy of discovery. Featured image by みちもち To try Momiji Manju and other regional favorites, check out our Best of Hiroshima Food Tour with an expert guide!

Arigato Travel

28.10.2024

Things To Do in Osaka in November 2024 | Arigato Travel

November is a great time to be in Osaka, a vibrant city that blends contemporary lifestyles with rich cultural heritage. While the autumn foliage may come a bit later than usual to Osaka this year, the city’s bustling energy, traditional festivals, evening fireworks, and spectacular cuisine are more than enough reasons to plan a trip to Osaka this November. Here are some of the few things you can do to maximize your Osaka experience. So let’s get started. Fireworks at Osaka Hanabi 2024 If you enjoy fireworks, make sure to check out the Osaka Hanabi 2024, or the Great Sky Art Fireworks to be held at Rinku Park, in Izumisano City, Osaka. Get ready for 50 minutes of breathtaking fireworks along the coastline, synchronized to music, conducted by Japan's top pyrotechnicians. Thanks to specially designed barges, visitors can expect unique on-the-water performances, making it a must-see event for visitors to Osaka. Also, don't miss the sunset at Marble Beach before the show. It’s a ticketed event, so buy your tickets in advance before you visit. Dates: November 2nd, 2024, 6:00 pm onwards (seating begins at 3:00 pm) Location: Rinku Park, Izumisano City, Osaka Website: Osaka Fireworks Official Site Please refer to the website for more ticketing and other details Celebrate Japan’s multi-cultural ties at Shitennoji Wasso Matsuri The Shitennoji Wasso Matsuri is a vibrant cultural festival that celebrates international ties between Japan and its neighboring countries and offers a glimpse of how these international exchanges have helped shape modern Japan. Osaka has always been a thriving trade hub, and this festival was started precisely to remind new generations about Osaka’s rich trade and cultural history, especially its connections with the Korean peninsula and China. Today, the Shitennoji Wasso festival draws a lot of local as well as international visitors, and one of the most popular features is its historical parade, which re-enacts different ancient delegations traveling to Japan. Participants from different countries and communities, dress up in costumes from their past, and briefly transport spectators to the past, with their vibrant performances and dances. It’s also a great time to enjoy Korean music and K-pop events in Japan. As a unique blend of ancient history and modern entertainment, the Shitennoji Wasso is a must-see for anybody who is fascinated by East Asian history. Dates: November 3, 2024, from 10.30 am to 5.00 pm Location: Naniwa-no-Miya Palace Remains, Osaka Website: Shitennoji Wasso Website Please refer to the website for more details Pray for good health at Shinno-sai Matsuri For almost 200 years, the Shinno-sai or Tome no Matsuri has been held each year in November, at Osaka’s Sukunahikona Shrine, making it an intangible aspect of Osaka’s culture. It began around the early 19th century, at a time when Japan was struggling with a cholera outbreak. During this time of crisis, the people offered prayers to the kami, Japanese spirits, and especially to Shinnosan, the God of Medicine, in hopes of stopping the pandemic. This faith is what led to the Shinno-sai festival, which to this day remains a celebration of health, where people gather to pray for protection from illness and disease. As part of the traditions, people buy Shintora bamboo grass charms, as a health amulet, in the shape of a tiger, to ward off sickness and attract good health. According to stories, this amulet symbolizes tiger bones, which were once used in traditional medicine. During the festival, the streets along the shrine are filled with stalls selling all kinds of traditional food and arts & crafts. Whether you’re curious about Japanese culture, love historical festivals, or simply want to enjoy the festive ambiance, the Shinnosan Festival offers something authentically Osakan to all visitors. Dates: November 22nd and 23rd, 2024 from 10 am to 8 pm Location: Sukunahikona Shrine, Osaka, Japan Website: https://www.sinnosan.jp Please refer to the website for more details Immerse yourself in the world of Noh Theatre Fans of the theatre and the performing arts must check out the Osaka Noh Festa 2024, a popular cultural event celebrating Noh theatre. One of Japan’s oldest performing arts, dating back almost 600 years, Noh is known for its slow movements, spiritual themes, elegant minimalism, and fusion of dance, drama, and music. The Osaka Noh Festa offers bilingual performances as well as interactive workshops, at various venues across Osaka, all through November. Experience Noh chanting, mask-making, and dancing, in immersive sessions that give a unique glimpse into this centuries-old art form. It will also give visitors a chance to engage in traditional tea ceremonies, which explore the connection between Noh and the traditional Japanese tea culture. Whether you’re a first-time visitor to Japan or a seasoned traveler, the Osaka Noh Festa 2024 is an unmissable experience for anyone who loves Japanese tradition and culture. Dates: Through November 2024 Location: Multiple venues, including Yamamoto Noh Theatre and Choyo Kaikan Noh Stage Website: Osaka Convention & Tourism Bureau Please refer to the website for more details Indulge at the Bar Festa Ibaraki in Japan’s Kitchen One of the highlights of Osaka’s culinary calendar this November will be Bar Festa Ibaraki 2024. A must-visit festival for cocktail enthusiasts, craft beer lovers, and foodies in general, the event brings together local bars, restaurants, and food vendors. The event operates on a passport system, where attendees purchase a festival

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