This is a very common concern for people traveling to Japan for the first time. If you don’t speak any Japanese, and there’s no one around who speaks English, are you going to be able to make yourself understood, will you be able to get from A-B, and how the heck are you going to find anything to eat? Do not worry, let us explain…
Culture Guides
Quick guides to some of the fascinating parts of Japanese culture you might spot on your Japan trip – anime, gachapon, ticket ordering – and more.
Why You Need Time for ‘Ma’ on Your Japan Trip
The Japanese concept of Ma loosely translates as a pause in time, a space from which you can develop and grow – and, it’s something that it’s a very good idea to build into your Japan itinerary for a couple of reasons. Here’s what you need to know – and some great ideas to make it happen…
Make Time to Try Japanese Milk Tea on Your Japan Trip
Being able to buy hot drinks from a vending machine is one of the things about Japan that never gets old – especially if you’re traveling in the winter months and you just need to warm up on the move – but among all the cans of coffee and bottles of hot green tea, you’ll also find creamy hot milk tea – also known as Royal Milk Tea – and, it’s something you have to try. Here’s why…
10 ‘Easy-Read’ Novels Set in Japan
Whether you’re looking for something fun to read before you go to get you in the mood for your holiday, a book for the plane or when relaxing in your room, or you miss Japan and need your fix, this list of novels set in Japan contains the titles for you.
A Beginners Guide to Gachapon in Tokyo
Everywhere you look in Tokyo, you’ll see them. A row of plastic machines with big pictures on the front, a coin slot, and a turning handle. Inside, there are capsules filled with toys. This, my friends, is Gachapon, and if you want an ‘only in Japan’ thing to do on a budget, you’ve found it.
The Magic of the Japanese Convenience Store Sandwich
Why is the Japanese Convenience Store Sandwich so iconic? After eating (a lot of) them on my past trips I decided it was time to find out exactly why they are so moreish!
What’s With All The KitKats in Japan? And Where to Buy Yours
Japan is a land where almost everything can be made cuter, brighter, and frankly, a bit more fun than it is elsewhere. And the humble KitKat bar is no exception – here’s why you might find yourself KitKat hunting on your Japan trip. And the best places to look.
The Quick Guide to Manga vs Anime
Chances are when you’re wandering around Japan you’ll notice something; Cartoon characters. Lots of them. In intriguing places – like the front of bullet trains. They’re characters from manga and anime – and if you don’t know what those are, our quick guide helps explain.