Summer in Japan, despite the sweltering heat and high humidity, is an exciting season filled with vibrant cultural experiences. The air buzzes with the sounds of cicadas and the crackle of fireworks, while towns and cities come alive with colorful summer festivals, known as matsuri. Beach days, seasonal foods, and yukata-clad festival-goers add to the […]
5 Must-Visit Yokohama Beer Gardens for Unforgettable Summer Nights in 2024
Yokohama, Japan’s lively port city, transforms in summer with its many beer gardens. Just a 30-minute train ride from Tokyo, the city is an easy and worthwhile trip for both locals and travelers. Whether you’re planning a romantic date, a fun night with friends, or a family outing, Yokohama beer gardens provide a perfect setting. […]
13 Best Activities to Enjoy Summer in Japan
Summer in Japan is a magical season filled with vibrant festivals, scenic landscapes, and cultural experiences that captivate both locals and tourists alike. The country comes alive with energy, and the warm weather offers a perfect backdrop for exploring its many treasures. From bustling urban centers to tranquil natural retreats, there are countless activities to […]
Essential Tips for Enjoying Japanese Firework Festivals: 10 Must-Know Secrets for a Memorable Hanabi Taikai
Japanese firework festivals, or Hanabi Taikai, are iconic summer events that captivate both locals and tourists with their stunning displays of pyrotechnic art. These festivals are more than just a series of explosions in the sky; they are deeply rooted in Japanese culture, offering a blend of tradition, community, and festive joy. Attending a Hanabi […]
A Foreign Parent’s Guide to Tanabata: Embrace the Magic of Japan’s Star Festival
As a parent living abroad, immersing your children in the local culture can be both a rewarding and enriching experience. One of the most enchanting festivals in Japan is Tanabata, also known as the Star Festival. Celebrated on the 7th of July, this vibrant event is rooted in a beautiful legend and offers a unique […]
Wise: Cheap, Easy Option For Sending Money From Japan
For the last three or so years, I have been using Western Union as my default method to send money from Japan back home to the Philippines. To be honest, I knew it was probably not the best or cheapest option out there compared to Wise, but I realized that only after going through the […]
How To Use A Japanese Rice Cooker: A Helpful Guide for Clueless Foreigners
So, you’re telling me that you are in possession of the magical Japanese rice cooker but do not know how to use it? How dare you? You are missing out real bad. Japanese rice cookers are an essential part of the Japanese diet, and whether or not you eat rice daily yourself, knowing how to […]
How To Use A Japanese Air Conditioner: The Complete Guide for Clueless Foreigners
Atsuuui! It’s summer again in Japan and guess what? I haaaate it! I’m from a tropical country so the heat, I can contend with. But the humidity… please, somebody turn it off! Good thing you always have your trusty air conditioner at home. Learning how to use a Japanese air conditioner is not just essential […]
Japan Apartment Grill: The Complete Guide for Clueless Foreigners
Living in a bustling city like Tokyo means dealing with limited space, especially in Japan apartment kitchens. But before you write off this crucial part of your home as impractical, consider the clever design elements, including handy features like the Japan apartment grill – a compact yet versatile addition tucked under your burners. Don’t let […]
Japanese Apartment Bathroom Fan: Discover How Useful This Appliance Is!
Very often neglected (because duh, aren’t ventilation options only supposed to be just ON and OFF?), the Japanese apartment bathroom fan is not only good for drying the floor after a shower but for a lot of other things as well – including drying your laundry! In this article, I’ll be using the Dry Fan […]