Latest News

The entrance to Yokohama Chinatown.

Yokohama Chinatown: Everything You Need to Know!

Yokohama, a city just south of Tokyo, is home to the largest of Japan’s three Chinatowns, called “chukagai” in Japanese. Established in the late 19th century, Yokohama Chinatown is a historic area home to hundreds of businesses.

Someone picking up sea snake meat from a bowl.

Dining in Okinawa: What is Sea Snake Soup?

Would you try a soup made from a sea snake? In the islands of Okinawa, this bold and unusual dish has been part of local life for centuries. Known as irabu-jiru (Irabu soup), it carries stories of the sea, royal history, and traditional healing. T

The entrance to an ice hotel in Hokkaido.

Hokkaido on Map Spotlight: What is the Ice Hotel?

In Japan, few places capture winter like Hokkaido. It’s the country’s ultimate winter destination, full of fun and frosty things to do. This year, though, there’s something extra special for visitors. Instead of a cozy cabin, why not spend the night in a hotel made entirely of ice? That’s right—Hokkaido is now on the map, with a brand-new ice hotel that’s the talk of the season!

People using umbrellas as they walk through the snow in Japan.

Snow in Japan: What Happened During the Most Recent Blizzard?

Winter may be one of the most exciting and fun times of the year, but like all weather, it can be dangerous and unpredictable. This current winter snow in Japan has been particularly dangerous for citizens across the northern prefectures.

A senior woman, potentially from Osaka, Japan, enjoying a cup of tea.

Osaka Japan Now Has a Collective for Senior Women!

In Osaka, Japan, women are redefining aging. They plan to create a shared home where senior women can live together and support each other. Rather than move into care facilities or depend on family, they aim for a community-style house with shared chores, worries, and joys.

The inside of a cave in the Valley of Gangala.

Okinawa Locations: What is the Valley of Gangala

Okinawa’s human history stretches back tens of thousands of years, and its lush landscape hides ancient sites where early people lived and prayed. The Valley of Gangala is one of the most fascinating Okinawa locations.

Discover authentic flavors with Sakuraco

Enjoy new Japanese sweets, snacks and tea every month starting from $32.50USD

Discover authentic flavors with Sakuraco

Enjoy new Japanese sweets, snacks & tea every month starting from $32.50USD