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Hitachi Seaside Park in Ibaraki Prefecture is one of Japan’s most spectacular places to experience the beauty of autumn. Every year, the park’s famous kochia plants blanket Miharashi Hill in vivid shades of red, transforming the landscape into a sea of color that attracts visitors from around the world. As of early October, the kochia are typically still bright green, gradually deepening to red around mid-month. Visitors planning a trip in 2025 can look forward to the same breathtaking transition, when the entire hill glows crimson against the clear autumn sky. Once the latest photos become available this season, we’ll update this article to show you exactly how the park looks this year. (Main Image: Hitachi Seaside Park)
Holidays with kids to any country can be challenging, especially when it involves a long-haul flight to a completely different culture. But visiting Japan with children doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With a bit of planning, your family can have an unforgettable and stress-free adventure. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about arriving in Japan with kids—focusing on the country’s top three international gateways: Narita International Airport, Haneda Airport, and Kansai International Airport. From airport arrival tips to advice on family-friendly transport, accommodation, meals, and more, we’ve got you covered. Let’s get started. (Main image: Mahathir Mohd Yasin / Shutterstock.com) (This article may contain promotions)
If you are looking for a hotel to stay in Shibuya to enjoy sightseeing and a special experience along the way, then this article is for you. As a trendsetting hub of Tokyo, Shibuya attracts travelers from all over the world. While it is a district that symbolizes youth and pop culture, it is also home to numerous luxury hotels where you can spend a relaxing and refined time. In this article, a travel writer knowledgeable on Shibuya has selected 8 popular luxury hotels that offer elevated stays like no other. (This article may contain affiliate links or coupons. All featured facilities, stores, and products are selected based on our editorial standards)
Tokyo’s autumn isn’t only a daytime show. Across the city and nearby prefectures, gardens switch on evening illuminations that set fiery maples and golden ginkgo aglow. The blend of light, water, and seasonal color creates a calm, cinematic mood you can only feel after dark. Below, we’ve picked the most impactful places to see illuminated autumn leaves at night, with easy access and clear details so you can plan smoothly. Many think of visiting Kyoto for fall colors, but Tokyo’s night views hold their own; come see a different side of the season in and around the capital. (This article contains affiliate links)
Tucked away in the mountains of Miyagi Prefecture, Zao Fox Village is home to more than 100 foxes roaming freely in a spacious, nature-filled park. Visitors can watch them play, nap, and interact up close—an experience that has captured global attention thanks to countless viral photos. From autumn through winter, the foxes’ coats grow thick and fluffy, making it the most magical season to visit, snap photos, and enjoy this one-of-a-kind animal encounter! (This article contains affiliate links)
Izakaya are places where you can enjoy casual dining and drinking in Japan. Prices are usually affordable and not only are beer and Japanese sake served, but many types of home-style cooking as well, the menus often loaded with delicious dishes. Izakaya are especially popular with office workers who crowd them after work to relax and let their hair down before heading back home. But for visitors who are looking to sample a wide variety of Japanese food all in one sitting, they're the perfect place to go! For first-time visitors to Japan, though, going to an izakaya might seem a bit daunting. In this article we will introduce phrases often used in izakaya from the time you enter the pub until you leave it.
Shinjuku, home to Japan’s largest cluster of skyscrapers, is one of the few places in Tokyo where you can enjoy a luxurious stay high above the city streets. Especially at night, the glittering sea of Tokyo lights spreads out below like a field of jewels — a truly breathtaking sight. In this article, we’re showcasing luxury hotels with high-floor rooms, carefully selected for their panoramic views, convenient locations, exceptional hospitality, and glowing reviews from international guests. Each hotel featured has earned a 4-star rating or higher, and is confidently recommended by a Tokyo-based writer who knows the city’s most scenic spots inside and out. These hotels offer not only world-class comfort, but also a sense of serenity and escape — a chance to forget the noise of the city and immerse yourself in a truly extraordinary experience. Why not create unforgettable memories wrapped in the brilliance of one of the world’s most dazzling night views? (This page contains promotions)
For families planning a stay in Shinjuku, choosing accommodations that are both convenient and comfortable is key. This list highlights 10 carefully selected hotels and apartments that provide spacious rooms, family-friendly services, and easy access to major stations. From trips with babies to three-generation family vacations, these properties offer excellent options for travelers seeking both comfort and peace of mind during their time in Tokyo. (This page contains promotions)
Experience some of Japan's earliest autumn colors on a two-day drive around Mount Daisetsu and Asahikawa. Travel writer Hide shares some of Hokkaido's hidden fall treasures, scenic spots that many foreign travelers never see in this two-day road trip. (This article contains affiliate links)
From Mitsui Outlet Park Sendai Port to AEON MALL Natori, Sendai’s outlet malls offer unbeatable shopping and dining experiences. With convenient access to Sendai’s attractions, these malls are perfect for finding great deals and savoring local cuisine. (This article contains promotions)
The Kansai region—home to Osaka, Kyoto, Kobe, and Nara—offers the perfect mix of history, culture, and modern excitement. This 9-day winter itinerary covers it all: Kyoto’s Kiyomizu-dera and Arashiyama, Osaka’s Universal Studios Japan and vibrant Namba, Kobe’s stylish harbor and world-famous beef, and Nara’s ancient temples and friendly deer. To make your trip smooth and affordable, we’ve also highlighted the best transit passes, must-book attraction tickets, and recommended accommodations so you can enjoy Kansai to the fullest. (Main image: PIXTA) (This article may contain affiliate links)
Located at the northern tip of Japan’s main island, Aomori is blessed with rich natural beauty. From the UNESCO World Heritage–listed Shirakami Sanchi and the double caldera Lake Towada to the scenic Oirase Gorge, the region is a paradise for nature lovers. In autumn, vibrant foliage transforms places like Hirosaki Castle and Oirase Gorge into picture-perfect scenes that look straight out of a postcard. Beyond the stunning landscapes, autumn in Aomori also means fresh seafood, world-famous apples, and comfortable weather—making it an ideal season to visit. Ready to enjoy Aomori’s autumn of sightseeing and seasonal flavors? Don’t miss this easy weather guide and outfit tips put together by our local editor! (Main photo by author (Nemi.Lin))
For families planning to stay near Ueno Station, apartment hotels provide the comfort of home with the convenience of hotel services. This article introduces eight carefully selected properties, all equipped with kitchens, laundry facilities, and family-friendly amenities that make travel with children easier. Each accommodation has been chosen with parents in mind, ensuring not only practical facilities but also a welcoming environment where families can relax after a day of exploring Tokyo. (This article contains affiliate links. If you make a booking or purchase through them, we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. All selections are made based on our editorial standards.)
Aomori ryokan inns are the perfect way to enjoy the stunning autumn foliage in the prefecture's inland areas. Some of the finest spots, including Oirase Gorge and Lake Towada, offer a vivid gradient of red and yellow hardwood leaves from mid-October to early November. Here are three recommended onsen ryokans where you can relax and enjoy the scenery while avoiding the crowds.
Japanese whisky has become one of the most sought-after souvenirs for travelers, whether as a gift or a keepsake from their trip. Not only are certain bottles impossible to find abroad, but many are also sold in Japan at up to 50% lower prices than in places like South Korea. This makes browsing the whisky shelves almost irresistible. For the widest selection and the best value, BicCamera stands out—offering duty-free shopping plus stackable coupons that make already competitive prices even more attractive. In this guide, we’ll share the best whiskies by price range and insider tips to ensure you get the most out of your whisky shopping in Japan.
Centara Grand Hotel Osaka is a luxury hotel located in the vibrant Namba area, a perfect base for exploring the city. Blending the refined aesthetics of Thailand and Japan, the hotel offers an elegant atmosphere with exceptional hospitality. Whether you're unwinding at the internationally acclaimed SPA Cenvaree, spending quality time with friends or family, or simply enjoying the popular breakfast and convenient self-serve bar, there's something here for every kind of traveler. Travel writer and luxury hotel enthusiast Yotsuka Hizuki takes you inside the charm and allure of Centara Grand Hotel Osaka. This page contains promotions
For travelers eager to experience Shinjuku’s nightlife, choosing the right hotel as your base is essential. In this article, I have carefully selected 10 hotels that offer convenient access to Golden Gai and Kabukicho, while ensuring a safe and comfortable stay. (This page contains promotions)
Just steps away from Heian Shrine, one of Kyoto's most iconic landmarks, HOTEL MASTAY Jingumichi offers a relaxing stay in a modern Japanese-style apartment hotel. Inside, you'll find elegant touches of traditional Japanese art and design, creating a calm, inviting atmosphere. Each room comes with its own kitchen and washing machine, making it perfect for longer stays. Located in Kyoto's Higashiyama district, rich in history and culture, the hotel is an ideal base for exploring the area. From select suites, you can even catch a glimpse of the Jidai Matsuri — one of Kyoto's three major festivals — right from your window. Plus, famous sights like Nanzen-ji Temple are just a short walk away. In this article, travel writer and Japanese culture enthusiast Yotsuka Hizuki shares her personal tips on how to make the most of your stay at HOTEL MASTAY Jingumichi. This page includes promotional content
This article is for travelers seeking value-focused hotels ideal for both business trips and sightseeing near Ueno Station. With excellent airport access via the Keisei Skyliner and smooth connections to major Tokyo attractions, Ueno is a highly popular base for visitors to Japan. Yet with so many hotel options, it can be difficult to know which ones offer the best balance of safety, comfort, and convenience. As a travel writer familiar with the Ueno area, I have carefully selected 10 business hotels that provide comfort and reliability beyond their price point. These properties are chosen for their prime locations, thoughtful services, and overall ease of stay, ensuring peace of mind for both business and leisure travelers. (This article contains affiliate links. If you make a booking or purchase through them, we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. All selections are made based on our editorial standards.)
Meet Kiko Matsuda, a writer passionate about travel, sake, and good food, with many years spent living in the Hanshin area between Kobe and Osaka in pursuit of Japan’s finest sake. Beginning with Nada in Hyogo Prefecture and Fushimi in Kyoto, two of the Kansai region’s leading sake producers, her work has taken her to breweries across the country, where she has documented the local features and shared stories of the craftspeople. Today, she takes Live Japan editor Johanna, who had only recently discovered the delights of sake, through the local Nada-Gogo area. This page contains promotional content.
It’s been a while since many of us last traveled to Japan, and plenty of visitors are eager to splurge. But with limited budgets and luggage space, smart shopping is key. We asked veteran tour guide Mr. K to share his post-pandemic insights on what’s truly worth buying in Japan. From analyzing why certain goods are best picked up locally to highlighting six must-buy categories of tax-free items, this guide will help you spend wisely—even when indulging in revenge shopping. If you’re unsure what to bring home from Japan, use this practical checklist as your go-to shopping playbook! Main image: PIXTA (model is not the interviewee)
Kyoto in autumn is one of the most beautiful times to visit, drawing travelers from all over the world for its stunning fall foliage and historic sights. But temperatures can vary greatly between September and November, making it tricky to know what to wear. Preparing the right outfits in advance is key—especially since finding clothing or accessories you like while abroad isn’t always easy. In this guide, our local Kyoto editor shares monthly weather details and practical clothing suggestions for September, October, and November. Use these tips to pack smartly and enjoy your trip to Kyoto in autumn to the fullest. And of course, remember to check the latest weather forecast before you go! (Main image: PIXTA) (This article may contain affiliate links or coupons. All featured facilities, stores, and products are selected based on our editorial standards)
Autumn in Kansai is one of the most beautiful times of year to visit Japan. The Kansai region, home to cultural treasures like Kyoto, Osaka, Nara, and Kobe, is famous for its historic temples, traditional streets, and stunning natural landscapes. As the season changes, fiery red maples and golden ginkgo trees blanket mountainsides, temple gardens, and riversides, creating unforgettable scenery unique to this part of Japan. From quiet mountain trails to bustling city parks, autumn in Kansai offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and nature at its most colorful. In this guide, we’ll introduce eight select places to enjoy autumn in Kansai, along with the best times to see the foliage at its peak. (This article contains affiliate links)
Osaka undergoes a striking transformation in autumn as Japanese maples and other trees turn brilliant shades of red and yellow. Both within the city and in nearby areas, there are numerous renowned spots to enjoy the season’s colors. Here is a curated list of ten of Osaka’s best places for autumn foliage, along with the best times to visit. (This article contains affiliate links)
A popular way of traveling from Tokyo to Osaka is the night bus. With the night bus, you can enjoy sightseeing in Tokyo till nighttime before hopping on to get some shut-eye while the bus takes you to your next destination!
For visitors to Osaka, two areas stand out for shopping: Umeda in the north and Namba in the south. Umeda, centered around JR Osaka Station and multiple subway and private railway stations, is especially convenient for travelers thanks to its easy access and vast range of shopping options. Here you can pick up everything from everyday necessities to luxury brand items, all in one compact district. What makes Umeda particularly appealing for travelers is the sheer number of department stores, malls, and underground shopping streets—perfect for exploring rain or shine. In this guide, we’ll highlight the must-visit spots to help you make the most of your shopping time in Umeda.
Autumn in Japan isn’t just about fiery maples and golden ginkgo trees. As the summer heat fades, the season ushers in lively festivals, bountiful harvests, seasonal delicacies, dazzling fireworks, and bustling markets. Each year, countless travelers plan trips specifically to admire the autumn foliage. The colors start in Hokkaido, gradually moving southward until Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto are all transformed into a sea of red and gold, with the entire country wrapped in the beauty of the season. To help you make the most of your trip, we’ve put together key holiday dates, top foliage spots, and details on autumn festivals. Whether you’re after a quick getaway or a deeper dive into Japan’s traditions and culture, this guide is the perfect place to start. Main image: PIXTA
This article is for travelers looking for hotels with excellent access to popular spots around Ueno Station, including Ueno Park, Ameyoko, and the charming Yanesen district. As a travel writer familiar with Kanto’s must-see destinations and well-balanced itineraries, I’ve selected 10 hotels that combine comfort, convenience, and easy station access—ideal bases for exploring both Ueno and Yanesen. (This article may contain affiliate links or coupons. All featured facilities, stores, and products are selected based on our editorial standards)
Hoshida Park, nestled in a prefectural forest in the northern Ikoma Mountains between Osaka and Nara, is home to the stunning Hoshi-no-Buranko Bridge. As one of Japan's largest wooden suspension bridges, it’s a hidden gem for autumn foliage and offers breathtaking views. Its enchanting name, meaning "The Star Swing," is inspired by the romantic Tanabata legend. In this guide, we’ll explore the spectacular scenery from Hoshi-no-Buranko and nearby spots tied to the Tanabata story.
Autumn in Japan is often associated with the beauty of autumn foliage, but in the Kanto region, seasonal flowers such as autumn roses, cosmos, and red spider lilies (higanbana) are also not to be missed. Their vibrant colors offer a delightful way to experience the changing seasons. In this guide, we have carefully selected parks and gardens in the Tokyo area where you can enjoy these autumn blooms. Among them, Hitachi Seaside Park in Ibaraki Prefecture is especially breathtaking, with vast fields of bright red kochia and delicate cosmos creating a scenery so picturesque it feels like a painting. Each of these spots is perfect for an autumn stroll, so consider adding them to your seasonal outings. Note: Peak viewing times may vary each year. (This page may contain promotions)
I’m a travel writer with a keen eye for great deals, and I wrote this article for those looking for comfortable hotels nearby stations in the Ueno area. With the options I describe below, even first-time solo travelers can enjoy their stay in Japan with peace of mind. (This article contains affiliate links. If you make a booking or purchase through them, we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. All selections are made based on our editorial standards.)
When it comes to electronics districts in Tokyo, Akihabara is definitely the place to be! From large electronics retailers like BicCamera and Yodobashi Camera to small shops and PC stores in Akihabara Electric Town, you’ll find countless chances to discover Japanese-made electronics and digital devices. A writer who used to work at a major electronics retailer in Akihabara introduces 7 electronics stores you should definitely visit in the area. (This article may contain promotions)
As of right now, more than half of the people visiting Japan will inevitably be at Shinjuku Station at some point on their travels. A bustling and colorful downtown area stretches on the station’s east side, most prominently represented by the Kabukicho area, while the massive business district called Fukutoshin sprawls to the east. Shinjuku, massive and exciting, is also a hot spot for shopping. Numerous drug stores and electronics retail stores dot the area, offering a dizzyingly large selection! Especially home appliances and cosmetics are in high demand and because it’s easy to get lost in this vast urban jungle, we’ve compiled a comprehensive overview of drug stores and electronics retail stores around JR Shinjuku Station. Enjoy your shopping spree in Japan!
For some of the best autumn leaves in Hokkaido, you need to head to the central part of the island! Here you'll find breathtaking foliage, with hues of red, orange, and yellow. This area has various well-known fall foliage viewing spots, from Sapporo’s city center to the natural landscapes of Niseko and Lake Tōya. Read on to find out more about eight recommended fall colors viewing spots for you – all of which are easily accessible from the Sapporo City area! (This article may contain promotions)
In the past, many travelers looked to Southeast Asia for emerald-blue seas, but Okinawa has become a must-visit destination with equally stunning waters and breathtaking scenery, all much closer to home. A two-night stay feels too short—at least three nights are recommended. Okinawa is generally divided into three areas: the main island, Ishigaki, and Miyako. No matter which you choose, renting a car is essential. I’ve visited Okinawa’s main island twice and Ishigaki once, always relying on rental cars. Next year, I’m planning a trip to Miyako as well. With the freedom of a rental car, let’s explore every corner of Ishigaki Island. Now, let’s go! Main image taken by author This article contains promotions.
When autumn arrives, Japan transforms into a sea of fiery reds, warm yellows, and golden oranges. While many visitors flock to parks and temples, you can savor the beauty of fall leaves without even leaving your room. Just a short trip from Tokyo, these three ryokan and hotels offer spectacular foliage views right outside your window—perfect for a relaxing autumn escape. (This article contains affiliate links)
Many people from overseas live in Japan for work or study. In 2019, the number of international residents reached a record high of 2.73 million, and it's easy to notice more nationalities when you walk on the streets. We asked some of these residents about the moments when they felt, “Wow, I’m starting to act like a Japanese person!” For this feature, we spoke with several students at the Akamonkai Japanese Language School, part of the Arai Gakuen educational group. They ranged from those who had been living in Japan for about six months to others who had been here for two years—five people in total shared their experiences.
Bustling with energy, Ikebukuro in Tokyo is a true shopping paradise. It’s home to the headquarters of Bic Camera and is home to a number of major electronics retailers, making it the perfect place to pick up the latest gadgets and convenient appliances. The area is also appealing thanks to its nearby Don Quijote and secondhand shops close to the station. In this article, a Tokyo-born writer with experience working at electronics stores introduces six recommended shops for buying electronics and digital devices in Ikebukuro. (This article may contain promotions)
Ikebukuro is one of Tokyo’s three major sub-centers, alongside Shinjuku and Shibuya, and is a central shopping hub. With its department stores, major electronics retailers, and discount stores like Don Quijote, there’s no shortage of places to buy watches, whether you’re looking for a brand new model or a one-of-a-kind antique piece. A writer born in Tokyo who regularly shops in Ikebukuro has carefully selected the most recommended watch stores in the area. Whether you dream of owning a luxury watch at least once in your life or want to find a beautiful piece at a reasonable price, you’re sure to find the perfect store here! (This article may contain promotions)