2020 has been an extremely difficult year on a global scale. Japan is currently restricting entry to foreign tourists from over 150 countries around the world, including the United States. It is unclear when tourists will be able to enter the country, but there has been mention of a gradual reopening starting in April 2021.
This is a short list of favorite foods based on more than two decades of living, working and traveling around this amazing country. Naturally, there are many more culinary options and each person has his or her own favorites, but these have proven to be the most popular dishes among our tour participants. Read more
2020 has been extremely difficult on a global scale and no country, company or individual is exempt from dealing with COVID-19. Since the beginning of this pandemic, we have received a number of emails and messages from both former and future tour participants encouraging us and wishing us well.
Japan has many unwritten social rules, but I believe the most important one to know is cell phone etiquette. What you might consider normal phone usage in your home country could come off as quite inappropriate in Japan. Read more
If you’re traveling to Japan and you plan on seeing more than Tokyo, then you’ll want to take advantage of the JR Pass (also referred to as the Japan Rail Pass). These JR Pass Tips will help you understand when, where and how to use your key to Japan’s ultra efficient train system. Read more
Dietary restrictions in Japan can often make finding something to eat very challenging. Going out to eat with dietary restrictions, food allergies, or dietary preferences can be troublesome in the US, but it’s not impossible. However, the situation is quite different in Japan. Read more
One of the best parts of giving tours of Japan is the excitement and eagerness our guests have to learn about this unique culture. I am always asked if there are any books I would recommend to gain a deeper insight into the people and their customs. The answer is always YES, and here is my personal Japan reading list. Read more
Japan is different. Some things will be similar and some will not. Here’s a short list of 5 things you won’t find in Japan. Read more
The Japanese convenience store is a businessman’s oasis as he navigates his daily commute through a concrete jungle. Called a konbini in Japanese, these meccas of sugary snacks and drinks appear to be on almost every corner and down every alley. Read more
Even though it’s one of the world’s most developed countries, free WiFi internet access in Japan is still very much a work in progress. They have a great internet infrastructure for people that live there, but as a visitor your options can seem limited. Read more
Becki and Shawn
Japan Travel Specialists
Hi, we’re Becki and Shawn! We love Japan and are truly passionate about Japan and Japan travel.
We’ve lived, worked, and traveled in Japan for 20+ years, so we know where to go, what to see, and how to get there. Join us in Japan for an adventure of a lifetime!
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