A stone statue of Hello Kitty.

Hello Kitty: Mascots that Have Shrines in Japan!

Shrines in Japan serve as deeply spiritual locations where people seek guidance and solace daily. Given their importance in Japanese culture, many shrines have embraced modern mascots, including popular characters like Hello Kitty.

A plate of fresh edamame.

How to Eat Edamame: A Guide to Soybeans!

If this is your first time enjoying this delicious snack, let’s explore how to eat edamame. Keep reading to learn more about this versatile and healthy snack!

A scupture at the 68th Sapporo Snow Festival, a popular event on the Hokkaido Map.

Hokkaido Map: Five Winter Festivals to Enjoy!

Hokkaido has many famous fuyu matsuri (winter festivals) featuring incredible snow sculptures and fun activities. Explore five unique events on the Hokkaido map that you won’t want to miss!

A plate of kaki no tane with buttered peanuts.

Kaki no Tane and More Types of Senbei

Senbei is a traditional rice cracker snack that has been loved by the people of Japan for generations. So, let’s look at some of the most popular types of senbei, starting with kaki no tane!

The Nakauraya staff standing outside their storefront.

Yuzu Senbei from Nakauraya: An Amazing Snack from Ishikawa!

Imagine biting into a crisp rice cracker that suddenly bursts with the bright, citrusy flavor of Japan’s beloved yuzu fruit. That’s the magic of Nakauraya’s yuzu senbei, a mouthwatering treat that captures the essence of Ishikawa Prefecture in every bite.

A torii gate in Lake Biwa, Shiga Prefecture.

Shiga Prefecture: Discovering Western Japan’s Treasures

Shiga (滋賀県) is a landlocked prefecture in the Kansai region of Japan. It is surrounded by Kyoto, Gifu, Mie, and Fukui Prefectures and has no access to the sea. Shiga may have no coastline, but its fantastic history has resulted in a disproportionate number of historical sites.