What Is the Etiquette for Taking Shoes Off in Japan?

February 22, 2024/in Common Questions/by Shawn Weldon

Taking shoes off in Japan may not seem like an important topic…, until you’ve approached your first genkan at a ryokan, temple or restaurant. Read more

Inside the Maglev and Railway Park

December 20, 2023/in Best of Japan/by Shawn Weldon

The Central Japan Railway Company’s Maglev and Railway Park in Minato City, Nagoya, is a train museum that has a blend of technological innovation and nostalgic preservation. Read more

Exploring the Living Art of Goshuin in Japan

December 9, 2023/in Common Questions/by Shawn Weldon

Japan is more than just its vibrant metropolises and beautiful landscapes. It’s a country steeped in customs that have been practiced for centuries. A great example of this cultural richness is the tradition of collecting goshuin, an ancient custom that offers a unique connection to Japan. Read more

Hiking The Nakasendo Trail

November 2, 2023/in Best of Japan/by Shawn Weldon

During the Edo period, the Nakasendo Trail was one of the five main routes that connected Kyoto to Edo, or modern-day Tokyo. It was essential to the movement, trade, and exchange of information between the two cities. Read more

Japanese Language for Travel: Useful Words and Phrases

August 30, 2023/in Practical Tips/by Shawn Weldon

After each of our tours, we ask our guests if there was anything they wished they’d known before coming to Japan. More than half say they wished they’d known more Japanese language for travel. Read more

Tokugawa Garden in Nagoya

May 13, 2023/in Best of Japan/by Shawn Weldon

Tokugawa Garden is located in Nagoya City, Aichi Prefecture. It’s a Japanese garden that once belonged to the Owari Tokugawa Shogunate family. Read more

Tips for Visiting a Shrine in Japan

May 1, 2023/in Common Questions/by Becki Benedict

Today we are answering the question, “What are tips for visiting a shrine in Japan?” Read more

The Village of Asuka, Japan

March 4, 2023/in Best of Japan/by Shawn Weldon

Nara is considered the first official capital of Japan. But before Nara, there was Asuka. The Asuka period ran from 592 to 710 AD, and this area is often considered to be the first capital of Japan. Read more

Kiyomizu-dera Temple in Kyoto

November 26, 2022/in Best of Japan/by Becki Benedict

Kiyomizu-dera Temple is a UNESCO World Heritage Site founded in 778. Kiyomizu means pure water and was given the name because of the Otowa Waterfall within the grounds. Read more