Let me tell you, when I first moved to Japan almost ten years ago, I thought I was prepared. I’d done my research. I knew Japan was big on recycling, and I was feeling all eco-warrior about it. How hard could it be? Just toss your plastics in one bin, your burnable trash in another, […]
Tsukimi: Captivating Moon Gazing, Japanese-Style (And Why It’s So Much More Than Just Staring at the Sky)
Alright, let’s talk about Tsukimi—also known as the Moon Viewing Festival. When I first heard about it, I was like, “Wait, Japan has a holiday for staring at the moon? That’s it?” But after living here for a few years, I’ve learned Tsukimi is a whole vibe, and there’s more to it than just sky-gazing. […]
Keirō no Hi: How Japan Does “Respect Your Elders” Right
If there’s one thing Japan gets so right, it’s knowing how to honor the elderly. As a foreign mom living here, I’ve definitely noticed how much respect the Japanese have for their older generation. But one day really stands out—Keirō no Hi (Respect for the Aged Day). If you’ve never heard of it, don’t worry, […]
Japanese Holidays: A Complete Guide for Foreigners (From a Foreign Mom Trying to Keep Up)
Living in Japan as a foreign mom is like constantly being thrown into a whirlwind of Japanese holidays, festivals, and traditions that I had absolutely no idea about before moving here. I mean, sure, I knew about cherry blossoms and maybe a few big things, but no one warned me about the real work of […]
Yorunoyo: Get Ready for a Dazzling Winter in Yokohama!
Yokohama is set to shine with the “Yorunoyo” illumination event, happening from December 5 to December 30, 2024. This dazzling display of lights and music will transform some of the city’s most iconic spots, like the Yokohama Port Osanbashi International Passenger Terminal and Yamashita Park, into enchanting works of art. A Highlight of Yokohama’s Winter […]
4 Stunning Campsites for Fall Foliage in the Kanto Region
As the summer heat begins to fade, Japan’s landscapes transform in the most breathtaking way with the arrival of autumn. Japan is beautiful throughout the year, making camping a wonderful experience in any season. However, autumn holds a special charm, with its crisp air and vivid colors creating an unforgettable atmosphere. For those in the […]
5 Surprising Izakaya Dishes That Will Shock First-Timers
If you’re new to the world of Japanese cuisine, the izakaya experience can be both thrilling and intimidating. Izakayas, Japan’s beloved gastropubs, offer an array of dishes that range from familiar favorites like tempura and yakitori to more surprising offerings that might shock even the most adventurous eaters. For first-timers, the menu can be a […]
Anpanman Children’s Museum Yokohama: A Magical World for Kids
The Anpanman Children’s Museum Yokohama is a delightful destination designed especially for young children and their families. Located in the heart of Yokohama, this vibrant museum brings the beloved Japanese cartoon character Anpanman to life through interactive exhibits, themed play areas, and engaging live shows. It’s a place where imagination and fun come together, making […]
Yokohama Cosmo World: A Thrilling Waterfront Amusement Park
Yokohama Cosmo World is a vibrant amusement park located in the heart of the Minato Mirai district, offering a mix of exhilarating rides, family-friendly attractions, and breathtaking views of the waterfront. Known for its iconic Ferris wheel, Cosmo Clock 21, Yokohama Cosmo World has something for everyone, whether you’re seeking adrenaline-pumping thrills or a fun […]
Shin-Yokohama Ramen Museum: An Epic Nostalgic Culinary Adventure
The Shin-Yokohama Ramen Museum offers a unique combination of history, culture, and culinary delight, all centered around one of Japan’s most iconic dishes—ramen. More than just a museum, it’s a food lover’s paradise where you can sample authentic ramen from different regions of Japan, all set within a beautifully recreated 1950s Tokyo streetscape. Location and […]