The Best Places to See Winter Illuminations in Tokyo
Discover the best places to see the spectacular winter illuminations in Tokyo that occur every year between late autumn to early spring.
Maria Peñascal
50 articles
Articles by Maria Peñascal
The Best Things to Do in Japan for Christmas
Christmas in Japan has a fascinating history. Introduced after World War II through Western influence, this Christian holiday was once largely unknown in Japan. Over the years, however, the Japanese have embraced Christmas and made it their own, blending Western...
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Horse Sashimi in Kyushu: A Unique Culinary Experience
A guide to buying and eating a lesser known, and maybe not immediately appealing Japanese dish – Horse meat sashimi.
How to Say I’m Sorry in Japanese: Understanding the Meaning and Variations of Gomennasai
When you first start studing Japanese, you are going to learn your first words such as arigatou, itadakimasu or gomennasai. And today we are going to focus on this last one. This word means “I’m sorry” and is a fundamental...
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What are the Capitals of Japan?
Spain has Madrid, France has Paris, and the United Kingdom has London. But do you know what Japan’s capital is? In this article, we will explain not only which city is the current capital of Japan but also which other...
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How to Say Thank You in Japanese — Not Just Arigatou
Saying thank you in Japanese can be more than a simple “arigatou”. You can either add more words to it or a sorry if you are really thankful.
How to Use Itadakimasu and Gochisousama: Japanese Mealtime Etiquette and Meaning
“Itadakimasu” and “Gochisousama” are more than just good wishes for your meal in Japanese.
How to Say Hello and Goodbye in Japanese: Essential Guide to Travel to Japan
A quick look at manners in Japan, including daily greetings and how to bow properly to show respect at different situations.
Japanese Spring: The Difference Between Ume, Momo, and Sakura Blossoms
Spring in Japan is a breathtaking season for wildlife lovers. It is a time when nature awakens with vibrant colors and enchanting fragrances. As the chill of winter fades, trees burst into bloom, and locals and tourists celebrate the beauty...
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Complete Hanami Guide: Enjoy Cherry Blossom Viewing in Japan
Spring means cherry blossoms and ohanami parties in Japan, but what are the rules we need to know while enjoying the food, drink and of course the view?
Otsukaresama: The Magical Expression for Every Occasion
Say Otsukaresama, or “you are tired”, anytime during the day to colleagues, to show your appreciation for their hard work.
Top Travel Apps for Japan: Essential Apps for a Smooth Trip
Planning a trip to Japan? Whether you are navigating Tokyo’s complex train system, trying to interact with friendly locals, or visiting theme parks, having the right apps can make your journey smoother and more enjoyable. From getting around efficiently to...
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Ehomaki: The Sushi Roll Tradition of Setsubun
Eating mamemaki during Setsubun is a well-known Japanese custom, but for those from Kansai ehoumaki is preffered to welcome the new season’s luck.
Electricity in Japan: What You Need to Know
Electricity in Japan differs from your own country so always be sure to check the voltage, and carry an adapter and/or converter with you when traveling.
Where and How to Travel by Camper Van in Japan?
Japan is famous for its super-efficient public transport systems and myriad of pristine taxis. But have you ever considered exploring Japan with a camper van? Camper van travel is a budget-friendly option that combines transportation and accommodation, offering the freedom...
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Setsubun: Japan’s Festival of Luck and Demon Banishing
Many Japanese may recall their childhood memories of mamemaki. While chanting “Evil out! Luck in!” beans are scattered around the house during Setsubun.
Death in Japan: Spirituality and Culture
Death. That mystery yet to be solved. That unanswered phenomenon that all cultures try to understand. The path to the afterlife affects every single living being. Where do we go when we die? What do we become? Can the deceased...
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Ekiben: The Legendary Bullet Train Bento in Japan
You are taking a Shinkansen 新幹線 or bullet train, as it's known overseas, in Japan and spending time inside the train station. You see many stores crowded with people selling a variety of colorful boxes, and a thousand questions come...
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Explore the Rural Side of Tokyo on a Day Trip to Akiruno
Living in Tokyo is an amazing and thrilling experience, with numerous activities to do each week. Sometimes, however, we also need to take a break from the city and relax in nature. Luckily, Tokyo is more than the capital of...
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My Japan: A Sample of my Freelancer Life in Tokyo
This is the second article of our new series, My Japan, where contributors from all over the country write about a typical week in their lives. After reading about Paul's week in Japan, it's my turn. I’m Maria, the Spanish...
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Seasonal Products in Japan: From Tradition to Trend
Japanese society, it could be said, really immerses itself in the changing seasons. From Shintoism and Buddhism, the main religions in Japan, being deeply involved with nature to strong contemporary product marketing, this country lives, year by year, following a...
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The Typical Japanese Breakfast: Rice, Soup, and Three Dishes
Following the proverb "When in Rome, do as the Romans do" when I came to Japan for the first time, I tried a typical Japanese breakfast without thinking twice. And it was love at first sight — the dishes were...
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Japan: The Land of Vending Machines
Uncover the secrets behind Japan’s vast array of vending machines, from convenience and safety to cultural customs.
A Guide to Tokyo’s Underrated Neighborhoods of Ogikubo & Nishi-Ogikubo
Explore another side of Tokyo by visiting Ogikubo and Nishi-Ogikubo, two of the city’s most underrated and non-touristy neighborhoods.
Accommodation in Japan: A Comprehensive Guide to Choosing Your Perfect Overnight Stay
The first thing to do before undertaking a trip is to plan it: looking for which airline to fly with, planning an itinerary or hiring a guide, thinking about what to add to the suitcase, and choosing your accommodation. There...
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Religion in Japan: What is the Main Religion in Japan?
“A Japanese is born as a Shinto, marries as a Christian, and dies as a Buddhist.” This looks impossible, but in Japan, it has its logic. The concept of spirituality and religion in Japan is different from what we are...
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What is a Ryokan? Discover this Traditional Japanese Accommodation
Experiencing an authentic aspect of traditional Japan is a dream come true for any fan of Japanese culture. While traveling around Japan, you may have many occasions to witness its deep-rooted culture, such as a matsuri (festival) or tea ceremony....
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Hiking in Japan: Discover the Unexplored Fukushima Prefecture
With its stunning natural environment of mountains, trails, volcanoes, cliffs, and other geographic structures, Japan is full of wonder for hiking lovers. If you are one of them, we recommend adding any destination for hiking in Japan to your next...
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