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40 Winter Sports & Ski Packages To Book in Japan (2024-2025 Season) | LIVE JAPAN travel guide
As autumn flips to winter, the scenery in Japan gets a makeover—pine trees sparkle with fairy lights and trinkets, fireplaces roar to life, snow monkeys hang out at onsens and the air carries the aroma of sizzling hot pots, and the sound of the yakimono trucks. But let’s be honest, for us ski bums, winter isn’t about cozying up indoors. It’s about chasing the rush that only fresh snow delivers, and Japan is the dream destination for it. They don’t call it "JaPow" for nothing—snow so fine and soft, it’s considered legendary. Whether you’re drawn to Hokkaido’s wide-open runs, Nagano’s alpine vibes, or Niigata’s laid-back reverie, the country’s ski scene is second to none. From beginner-friendly bunny slopes to trails worthy of Olympic skiers, Japan’s mountains have something for all. We’ve scoured the options for all available packages and compiled the best. They’re categorized into full packages, lift tickets with transport, and equipment rental-only or lesson-only options to make planning effortless. Just book your flights and accommodation in the land of the rising sun. (Main image: PIXTA) (This article contains promotions)
Ring in 2024–25: Top 10 New Year's Events & Countdown Parties in Tokyo (With Train Schedules) | LIVE JAPAN travel guide
New Year's Eve in Tokyo is a culturally unique event, distinct from Western-style celebrations. As the year ends, Tokyo emerges as a prime destination for those eager to delve into Japanese New Year traditions. Unlike the lively parties often seen in the West on December 31, Tokyo's New Year's Eve is more about family gatherings, hometown visits, and traditional customs. Even though many Tokyo shops close early on this day, the city still buzzes with enjoyable shopping and festive preparations. As you gear up to welcome the new year, we have curated a list of Tokyo's best spots for experiencing New Year's customs, indulging in celebrations, and getting in some last-minute shopping! (This page may contain promotions.) (Main image credit, clockwise from upper left: Klook, Shutterstock, Shutterstock, PIXTA)
Did You Say Drinkable Mayonnaise?! 5 Quirky and Fun Drinks to Try in Japan This Winter | LIVE JAPAN travel guide
Winter has come to Japan, and so has a new line-up of exciting time-limited products! Every year, Japan greets winter with a selection of warm, seasonally flavored beverages like yuzu tea and hot chocolate, perfect for grabbing from a convenience store, vending machine, or supermarket for a day out and about. This year, however, I (Johanna, English editor at LIVE JAPAN) have been collecting a couple of quite quirky drinks, all released at the beginning of the 2024/2025 winter season. Whether you are curious about trying out one yourself or just want to know what kind of crazy business we’re on about today - let’s go through them together!
'They Do What in the Toilet?!' Italians Shocked By These Japanese Beauty Quirks | LIVE JAPAN travel guide
Many Japanese have a the image that Europeans, and Italians in particular, are on the cutting edge of beauty. But how do Italians born and raised in such an environment feel about Japanese beauty? I asked Italians directly to find out their uncensored opinions! (The following is the respondent's personal opinions.)
6 Strawberry Farms Near Tokyo: Best Season, Spots & Strawberry Picking Tips | LIVE JAPAN travel guide
Plump, juicy Japanese strawberries are one of the hallmarks of a springtime harvest. And in Japan, there are a number of places where you can pick and eat fresh strawberries in Tokyo on your own! Some strawberry farms around Tokyo let you pick and eat them on the spot, while others let you pick strawberries to take home as a souvenir. Strawberry picking is a fun experience for adults and children alike, and one of Japan's most popular springtime events! Japanese strawberries come in many varieties. Tochiotome, Akihime, and Toyonoka are just a few of these. There are also a number of local varieties such as Chiba Prefecture's Fusa-no-kaori, Shizuoka Prefecture's Beni-hoppe, Gunma Prefecture's Yayoi-hime, and Nara Prefecture's Asuka Ruby. We will introduce several strawberry farms that you can easily visit from Tokyo and the surrounding suburbs, and tips to help you make the most of your strawberry picking experience. Main image: PIXTA
Retro Japan! Exploring Western Japan’s Nostalgic Old Towns | LIVE JAPAN travel guide
Although Japan is known for its uber-modern cities, many of its quieter towns have found equal fame in recent years. Offering an escape from the metropolitan madness, here are five old towns in western Japan to slow down, catch your breath, and enjoy a more tranquil side of Japan.
Hilton Kyoto: A Unique Stay Where Modern Luxury Meets Ancient Tradition (Review) | LIVE JAPAN travel guide
Hilton Kyoto opened in September 2024 in the heart of Kyoto. As part of the flagship Hilton Hotels & Resorts brand, this is the fifth Hilton property in Kyoto, following the recent opening of four other Hilton hotels in the city. Hilton Kyoto invites guests to immerse themselves in the culture of the ancient capital through all five senses, with guest rooms showcasing traditional crafts and Japanese-style interior design, restaurants serving local Kyoto dishes, and spa services inspired by Japanese aesthetics. (This page contains promotional content.)
Experience Sumo in Tokyo: Complete Guide to Enjoying Japan's National Sport (+Tickets & Tours) | LIVE JAPAN travel guide
Sumo is an important part of traditional Japanese culture, boasting a history of over 1,500 years. Due to its deep roots and old traditions, there are many customs, rules, and rituals surrounding this national sport - having a basic knowledge of sumo will allow you to really be part of a match! This comprehensive guide will take you through the rich history and cultural significance of sumo in Tokyo, the thrilling tournaments held in the city, the iconic Ryogoku Kokugikan sumo arena, and how to explore the captivating sumo culture in Tokyo.
Great Local Eats: 5 Expert-Recommended Local Chain Restaurants in Hakodate | LIVE JAPAN travel guide
Located in southern Hokkaido, Hakodate is a popular tourist city that attracts many visitors. With tons of attractions such as the Hakodate Night View and Goryokaku, the city also offers a rich culinary scene, including sushi, ramen, and sweets. There’s also quite a few famous eateries with roots in Hakodate, including some that have expanded into chains and gained popularity amongst both locals and tourists alike. In this article, travel creator Nobuka introduces five favorite local chain restaurants. Based in Sapporo, Nobuka has traveled extensively across Hokkaido for over 15 years, having penned over 1,000 travel and gourmet articles for various publications. Drawing from her extensive personal experience with the region, Nobuka has carefully selected the following recommendations.
Japanese Sake-Brewing Joins UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage List | LIVE JAPAN travel guide
When traveling in Japan, many people look forward to enjoying traditional Japanese drinks like sake, shochu, and awamori. On December 5, 2024, the art of "traditional sake brewing" was officially recognized as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage. Here are the details of this exciting announcement. This page contains promotional content
Top 10 Autumn Foliage Spots in Miyagi Prefecture: Enjoy Naruko Gorge, Akiu Falls & More Spectacular Scenery | LIVE JAPAN travel guide
Embarking on a journey through Miyagi's captivating autumn foliage is a true delight. As the season adorns the landscape with vibrant hues, immersing in this quintessential facet of Japan's fall becomes a captivating experience. And where better to revel in this spectacle than Miyagi, a prefecture celebrated for its deep connection with nature? We've curated a list of ten essential destinations to embrace autumn's palette in Miyagi. From breathtaking valleys to historic shrines, this compilation is your guide to the prefecture's most alluring foliage spots. Join us on this visual journey to discover landscapes that promise to ignite your curiosity and fascination. (Main image credit: Miyagi Prefecture Tourism Division) (This article may contain promotions)
Koyasan Itinerary: Two Days in Japan’s Spiritual Center | LIVE JAPAN travel guide
Koyasan is a beautiful area known for its central place in Shingon Buddhism. The area is full of spiritual sites, nature, and plenty of places to relax. Here, we’ll look at a one-night itinerary to make the most of your time in Koyasan. (This page may contain promotions)
Temple Stays in Japan: Here's What to Expect at a "Shukubo" Firsthand | LIVE JAPAN travel guide
If you’ve ever wondered what it’s like to stay in a temple, a shukubo experience offers a unique glimpse into Japan’s spiritual traditions. Combining peaceful surroundings, unique cuisine, and a chance to connect with centuries-old practices, temple stays provide more than just accommodation—they offer a deeper understanding of monastic life. Here, we’ll share what shukubo is all about, using an actual stay at Rengejo-in Temple in the historic Koyasan area of western Wakayama. (This page may contain promotions)
Scenic Railway Journeys: 4 Must-Ride Tohoku Tourist Trains to Enjoy Winter Roll By | LIVE JAPAN travel guide
Japan's Tohoku region sees rather high snowfall in winter due to its northeastern location, and if you happen to be visiting the country during this period, the beautiful snowy landscapes during this season is something you absolutely should not miss out on! Other than regular attractions like skiing and snow-covered hot springs, another great way to enjoy the season's incredible sights and sounds is through a nice and leisurely railway trip on sightseeing trains specially outfitted for that purpose. We're talking about trains with entertainment facilities like the traditional Japanese kotatsu (heated table with blanket), foot spas, live musical performances, and more! Here are five such scenic railway journeys that will give you an unforgettably magical winter experience.
5 Beautiful Old Villages in Tohoku: Charming Spots You Need to Visit at Least Once | LIVE JAPAN travel guide
The Tohoku region of Japan, located in the far northern tip of the mainland, consists of six prefectures: Aomori, Iwate, Miyagi, Akita, Yamagata, and Fukushima. The east, west, and north are surrounded by seas, while the center is dominated by the precipitous Ou Mountains. Even today, these mountains are difficult to pass, cultivating distinctive cultures, making each region equally worth visiting. Amongst these regions lies numerous “kokoro no furusato,” meaning “hometown of the heart,” bursting with rustic, traditional atmospheres making one well with nostalgia. In this article, our Tohoku-loving writer introduces five retro villages within Tohoku that all fans of old-school Japan should check out at least once!
10 Family-Friendly Ryokans in Kyoto for an Unforgettable Holiday | LIVE JAPAN travel guide
Kyoto, Japan gives you endless reasons to linger—temples shrouded in early-morning mist, quiet forests of swaying bamboo, rivers lined with dense greenery, and lantern-lit eateries tucked into shadowed alleys. When the day winds down, staying at a ryokan keeps the experience alive in a way that standard hotels simply can’t. With Japan’s recent influx of global visitors, it’s all the more rewarding to find accommodation where you can truly sink into the culture. After all, no one flies across the world just to land in a generic hotel chain. Ryokans, Japan’s traditional inns, are a perfect alternative: an invitation for your family and you to connect with local customs simply by being there. In Kyoto, these inns hold special significance, reflecting the heritage of Japan’s old capital. But don’t be misled by the simplicity of the wood-laden ryokan rooms. The spaces are thoughtfully pared down, bringing attention to essentials—the earthy scent of tatami, the quiet slide of a shoji door, and the signature Japanese hospitality reflected in the welcome tea and sweet treat. In this guide, we spotlight ten Kyoto Ryokans designed to make families comfortable, providing a stay to rest soundly with details that appeal to all ages. These inns provide a cozy base for your Kyoto visit, each with its specialty—from matcha ceremonies and garden views to three-course meals for every palate and steamy onsens for tired bones. (Main image: Klook) (This article may contain promotions)
Explore Koyasan: A Guide to Wakayama's Sacred Mountains | LIVE JAPAN travel guide
Koyasan (高野山) is one of Japan’s most significant places when it comes to Buddhism, and a beautiful place to visit. From temple stays to travel tips, here’s everything you need to know about traveling to this sacred mountain area in Wakayama. (This page may contain promotions)
11 Must-Try Foods in Kawaguchiko: From Hoto Noodles to Fujisan Dango and More! | LIVE JAPAN travel guide
The Kawaguchiko area is a must-see near Mount Fuji. From summer hikes to spring and autumn lakeside views, it’s charming year-round. Don’t miss the local cuisine, like firm Yoshida Udon, chewy Hoto noodles, and Fujisan Dango with Mount Fuji as a backdrop. Cozy eateries near Fuji-Q Highland and late-night dining options make it a foodie’s delight. A visit here isn’t complete without savoring these local treats! (This article may contain promotions)
What's Changing for Japan Travel in 2025? Updates on Tax-Free Shopping, Pre-Clearance, and More | LIVE JAPAN travel guide
As Japan welcomes more international visitors, 2025 is set to bring new systems and updates designed specifically for travelers. Here’s a clear breakdown of the latest information to help you stay informed and make the most of your trip! Main image: PIXTA This article may contain promotional content
Visiting Japan in December - the Best Things to Do and Reasons to Visit | LIVE JAPAN travel guide
It might be tempting to think that December isn’t the best time of year to visit Japan. Although December officially marks the beginning of winter in Japan, this is still a great time to plan a trip, especially if you want to bask in beautiful late autumn colors or ski on some of northern Japan’s freshly laid snow. (Main image: PIXTA) (This article may contain promotions)
Best Yakiniku in Kyoto: 3 Restaurants to Get Your Wagyu Fix While Sightseeing! | LIVE JAPAN travel guide
Japanese beef, known as wagyu, is renowned for its perfect marbling, soft texture, and melt-in-your-mouth fat. From grilling each piece yourself at a yakiniku restaurant in Kyoto, or relishing a steak in a full-course set, there are numerous ways to enjoy this unique Japanese delicacy. This time we’re going to introduce 3 shops for yakiniku in Kyoto. All are located near popular Kyoto attractions, making it easy to drop in while sightseeing! With tranquil Japanese aesthetics, relaxed and friendly atmospheres, these establishments adored by locals and visitors alike!
Two-day Road Trip for Shiga and Kyoto: See Gorgeous Fall Colors Around Japan’s Largest Lake! | LIVE JAPAN travel guide
Lake Biwa, Japan’s largest lake, spans an area nearly as big as Singapore. As the vibrant fall colors transform the landscape, take a scenic drive around the lake and experience its beauty at its peak. As a seasoned travel writer who has explored every corner of Japan by car, I will introduce some of the best autumn foliage spots around Lake Biwa, from mainstays to hidden gems. With crisp autumn air and serene views, this two-day drive is the perfect way to experience a special and memorable trip in midwestern Japan.
Top 10 Winter Illuminations in Kansai (2024-2025): Enjoy A World Where Everything Glitters | LIVE JAPAN travel guide
When visiting Osaka in winter, you can't miss the colorful illuminations that decorate the city! In the cold, clear winter air, sparkling lights shine even more beautifully. And from Osaka to Kyoto and Kobe, Kansai comes alive with dazzling illumination events. Featuring creative blends of light, music, and visuals, often paired with nature’s own beauty, these displays are guaranteed to wow and delight. This page contains promotional content.
23 Astounding Places in Japan: If You Could Visit Just One, Where Would it Be? | LIVE JAPAN travel guide
Possibly one of the most difficult questions to answer, since Japan has so many different and amazing things to see and do, but the question of where to visit in Japan if you could only visit one place was asked to a variety of foreigners from different countries and backgrounds. With hundreds of responses, here are some of the most popular as well as lesser-known places that people said they would visit in Japan if they could only visit one spot. We’ll start with the most common answers and work our way down to some of the most unique and lesser-known areas of Japan.
2022 Ramen Trends in Japan - According to a Ramen Master | LIVE JAPAN travel guide
With tonkotsu, miso, and shoyu ramen enjoyed across almost every corner of the globe, it’s amazing how fast ramen has fast grown into one of Japan’s leading international dishes. We spoke with a Japanese ramen master to see how the world of ramen changed in 2021 and its predicted course for 2022. Read on to discover what bowls you’ll be seeing in the near future!
Sapporo New Chitose Airport (CTS): Complete Guide to Restaurants, Souvenirs, Shopping & More! | LIVE JAPAN travel guide
New Chitose Airport is Hokkaido's aerial gateway through which over 20 million visitors pass each year. It is also the main airport for getting to Sapporo. Since its terminal buildings were renovated in 2011, New Chitose Airport has been transformed into a commercial complex hosting a wide array of new shopping and dining experiences. In addition, entertainment and relaxation facilities have also been added further adding to the attractions offered. Let’s take a closer look at these exciting new facilities in the terminals!
Why 'OMO' Hotels by Hoshino Resorts Are The Ultimate Urban Getaway in Japan | LIVE JAPAN travel guide
Hoshino Resorts offers a range of fun, high-quality stays across Japan, each brand with its own unique vibe. In this article, frequent guest Kiko Matsuda shares why she loves OMO hotels for their vibrant city-center locations and community-based sightseeing experiences. This page includes promotional content.
Day Trip to Mt. Takao: 7 Fun Ways to Enjoy Tokyo's Favorite Mountain | LIVE JAPAN travel guide
Mt. Takao (高尾山) is a beloved destination, especially during cherry blossom and autumn foliage seasons. Perfect for a day trip from Tokyo, it offers a refreshing escape into nature just a short distance from the city. In this guide, we’ve gathered recommendations for must-visit spots from the station master of the Takao Tozan Railway, an expert on all things Mt. Takao!
OMO Kansai Airport Review: Great Stay for Food, Fun, and Relaxation | LIVE JAPAN travel guide
When traveling to Kansai International Airport, you may encounter one of its most common challenges: its distance from the city center. After a long day of travel, or even before returning home, the prospect of a long bus or train ride can feel daunting, especially for early morning or late-night flights. That’s why we highly recommend OMO Kansai Airport by Hoshino Resorts. Hoshino Resorts is known for offering high-quality accommodations across Japan, with a mission to “make travel enjoyable.” It is particularly popular with foreign tourists and runs several brands, each with its own unique characteristics. OMO Kansai Airport is the first airport hotel under the OMO brand, which aims to redefine city tourism. Just one train stop from Kansai International Airport, this hotel boasts a diverse array of dining, entertainment, and relaxation options. Keiko Kimura, a writer with Westplan and avid solo traveler, provides an in-depth report on this charming hotel that offers much more than just easy access to the airport! This page contains promotional content.
The Ride of Your Life! Experiencing Japan from Above in a Private Helicopter Tour | LIVE JAPAN travel guide
As you fly into Tokyo, seeing the city and mountains expand before you is an exciting experience that is hard to beat...Unless you can do it in a private helicopter ride. (Main image: AriAir) (This article may contain promotions)
Only Twice a Year! Catch Rare 'Diamond Fuji' from Tokyo This November - Best Dates & Viewing Spots | LIVE JAPAN travel guide
Did you know you can catch the stunning Diamond Fuji, where the setting sun aligns perfectly with Mt. Fuji, right from the Tokyo area if the weather cooperates? This rare sight happens only twice a year, so don’t miss your chance to experience it! (Main image: PIXTA)
Enjoy the Untouched Beauty of Oirase Keiryu (Aomori): Japan's Hidden Nature Gem | LIVE JAPAN travel guide
Japan's Oirase area in Aomori Prefecture, renowned for its stunning natural beauty, is a must-visit destination recommended by travel expert Miyu Shimada, who shares insights on its seasonal attractions and activities. (*This page includes promotional content.)
3 Hotels & Onsen Ryokan in Nara: Enjoy an Elegant Japan Vibe With Views of Fall Colors From Your Room | LIVE JAPAN travel guide
Easily accessible from Osaka and Kyoto, Nara is an attraction-filled prefecture. Here you can enjoy famous old shrines and temples such as Todaiji Temple, tourist spots that offer the refined elegance of an ancient capital, as well as beautiful views of fall foliage. What’s more, you can also enjoy the unique experience of watching wild deer roam around on a carpet of colorful fall leaves in Nara Park! Here we will introduce three hotels and traditional Japanese inns perfect for sightseeing in Nara during the fall. Each of these facilities keeps you away from crowds and enables you to take in the beauty of fall foliage from the comforts of a private room.
2024 Ranking of Top-Rated Onsen Ryokan with Exceptional Baths—Must-Visit Hot Springs in Japan! | LIVE JAPAN travel guide
In Japan, the cool autumn and winter months are perfect not only for savoring seasonal dishes but also for enjoying a warm, relaxing onsen soak! Japanese onsen enthusiasts love to plan weekend and holiday trips to hot springs as a way to unwind and treat themselves. Based on guest ratings, Rakuten Travel has released its “Top-Rated Onsen Ryokan with Exceptional Baths” list. This ranking is a great guide for experiencing onsen baths highly praised by locals—perfect for planning a soothing hot spring trip this season! (Main image source: PR TIMES) (This article contains promotional content)
10 Must-Try Japanese Sweets! The Latest Exclusive Snacks Available at Don Quijote | LIVE JAPAN travel guide
During your trip, don't miss out on Japan's amazing variety of sweets, from KitKat and Hi-Chew to unique chocolates and candies. If you're on the hunt for the perfect souvenir, look no further! Our editors have carefully curated a list of some of the finest confections to consider buying in on your next trip. Join us at MEGA Don Quijote Shibuya—one of the Tokyo area's top stores. There, we've handpicked must-try treats, featuring both Japan-exclusive sweets and unique Don Quijote items, perfect for everyone on your gifting list.
Japan's Best Glamping & Camping Spots for Autumn Colors - #1 Has Unbeatable Views! | LIVE JAPAN travel guide
The intense heat of summer is fading, and the comfortable, refreshing autumn season has arrived! In Japan, fall is often called the season for food, art, and sports—highlighting it as the perfect time for all kinds of activities. This year, NEXER Co., Ltd. and camper van resale company A-Saito conducted a survey asking, “Which area do you want to visit for autumn foliage camping?” If you’re looking to enjoy the autumn leaves in a unique way, check out this ranking to see where Japanese campers love to go! (Main image: PIXTA) (This article contains promotional content)
Curated 2-Day Tokyo Itinerary: Enjoy All Japan's Most Famous City Has to Offer in 48 Hours | LIVE JAPAN travel guide
Maximize your Tokyo experience with our 2-Day Itinerary, featuring must-see spots in Japan's capital. Begin with the vibrant Tsukiji Market and the upscale Ginza district. Explore the bustling Shibuya, marvel at the towering Skytree, and immerse yourself in the historic Asakusa (Senso-ji Temple). Wrap up your adventure with a visit to Ueno, known for its beautiful park and cultural sites. Each location offers a unique glimpse into Tokyo's dynamic blend of tradition and modernity.
Nature with Art: Explore 'teamLab: Hidden Traces of Rice Terraces' in Ibaraki | LIVE JAPAN travel guide
When art meets nature, the result is an unforgettable experience—perfect for those seeking something extraordinary. About two and a half hours northeast of Tokyo is where you’ll find the teamLab experience, Hidden Traces of Rice Terraces, which opened on September 30, 2024. Located in the scenic Izura area of Ibaraki Prefecture, this venue showcases the beauty of Japan's terraced rice fields in an artistic and engaging display. (Main image: teamLab "Path of Water Mirrors in the Hidden Rice Field," "Hidden Rice Field," "Responsive Forest of the Deep Valley" © teamLab) (This article may contain promotions)