I’m going to be honest: I had seen so many photos of the Fuji Shibazakura Festival over the years that I’d kind of filed it away in the “Instagram bait” category. You know the type — perfectly timed Mt. Fuji in the background, endless fields of neon pink flowers, a couple in coordinated outfits doing […]
Kamakura History: Beyond Cute Trains and Stunning Coastlines
Transparency Note: This post may contain affiliate links. If you book or buy through them, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Thank you for supporting the blog! So, you’ve seen the Great Buddha. You’ve watched the charming little Enoden train trundle past the beach like it’s auditioning for a […]
Michi-no-Eki Fujioyama: Adorable Kintaro Meets Fuji Views
View this post on Instagram A post shared by Angelie Ueda (@juz.jillin) If you think roadside stations are just places to grab a vending machine coffee and stretch your legs, then let me introduce you to Michi-no-Eki Fujioyama—where adorable folklore, mouthwatering food, and postcard-perfect views of Mount Fuji come together to create an experience that’s […]
Cherry Blossom Spots in Yokohama (Ditch the Tokyo Crowds)
We all know Tokyo’s cherry blossoms are world-famous, but guess what? That also means you’ll be wading through an ocean of people just to catch a glimpse of those delicate pink petals. If you want to enjoy the beauty of sakura without spending half your time dodging selfie sticks and squeezing through crowds, why not […]
62.9% of Japanese Commuters Are Annoyed by Tourists Doing These in Trains
So, you’ve booked your dream trip to Japan. You’re ready to dive into the bustling streets of Tokyo, explore Kyoto’s ancient temples, and—of course—experience the legendary Japanese train system. It’s sleek, efficient, and unbelievably punctual. You’ve seen the videos of station staff pushing passengers into packed rush-hour trains with precision. You’ve heard about the ultra-clean […]
8 Yokohama Theme Parks and Experience-Based Facilities
Yokohama, a vibrant city known for its blend of modern attractions and historical sites, offers a variety of unique experiences for visitors. Among these, Yokohama theme parks stand out as must-visit destinations, offering everything from thrilling rides to immersive educational experiences. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker, a history buff, or just looking for a fun family […]
Hinamatsuri: A Clueless Foreigner’s Complete Guide to Japan’s Doll-Filled Girl Power Festival
So, you thought Japan’s only big festival in March was cherry blossom season? Nope. Allow me to introduce you to Hinamatsuri, also known as Girls’ Day, aka The Festival of Tiny, Expensive Dolls That Will Haunt Your Dreams if You Don’t Pack Them Away in Time. I first came across this festival while attempting to […]
Top 10 Stunning Must-See Plum Blossom Spots in Kanagawa for 2025
Every year, people go absolutely feral over cherry blossoms, flooding parks, snapping a million photos, and cramming into trains like it’s some kind of pink petal apocalypse. But while everyone’s out there losing their minds over sakura, plum blossoms (ume) are already in full, glorious bloom—and barely anyone seems to notice. Tragic, really. These elegant […]
Aggressive Nara Deer? 8 Essential Tips to Stay Safe & Enjoy Your Visit
The Nara deer are legendary. These four-legged locals have been hanging out in Nara Park for centuries, charming visitors with their polite bowing and snack-loving ways. But if you’ve scrolled through social media recently, you might’ve seen tourists griping about “aggressive” behavior. What gives? Are the deer really turning into headbutting hooligans, or are people […]
Iconic Mount Fuji With or Without the Snow Cap in 2024
Alright, confession time: I’m a hardcore Mount Fuji fan. I’m talking full-on groupie vibes. Living in Japan, I have every excuse to stare at her whenever I can, from all angles and in all her moods. This year, though? She’s kept us all on our toes because it’s already winter, and Fuji-san is STILL missing […]