A plate of fortune cookies.

Fortune Cookies: They’re Japan’s Best-Kept Secret!

Fortune cookies’ history isn’t what many people think it is, even though they are a staple of Chinese-American food. When it was first made in Kyoto, Japan, in the 1800s, the fortune cookie was called something else.

A picture of a crested ibis with spread pink and white wings. In the water among green trees. It's native to Niigata, Japan.

Niigata, Japan: The Best Five Magnificent Birds

Niigata Prefecture is famous for incredible natural spots such as mountains and rice fields. Being blessed with natural sceneries, Niigata is also a motherland to many beautiful bird species.

A plate of Japanese rice snacks, including crispy, brown senbei.

Japanese Rice Snacks: The Best That You Need to Try

You already know that rice is a mainstay of the Japanese diet. Not only do Japanese people have steamed plain rice at meals almost every day, but if you can go to grocery stores in Japan, you can find many rice crackers.

A shot of green noodles or hegisoba.

Green Noodles (Hegisoba): Niigata’s Best Specialty

Hegisoba is a noodle dish specialty from Niigata. It has a unique presentation and a special ingredient that provides a unique texture when you bite it. Let’s look closer at the culinary history behind this fantastic dish, and why is it important.

A traditional Japanese shrine near a sakura tree of Japan.

Sakura of Japan: Best Top Nine Cherry Blossoms

Sakura has become a cultural symbol associated with many traditional Japanese activities in spring, including the custom of hanami (flower viewing). Most types of cherry blossoms have their unique beauty and different flowering times.

A woman looking around in a street that depicts a tradiitonal Japanese Tokyo lifestyle.

Traditional Tokyo Japanese Lifestyle: How to Experience It

Despite being the country’s capital, Tokyo is not typically considered the center of Japanese culture. Tourists rarely prefer a tea ceremony in this contemporary, multicultural city over shopping or a trip to the newest attraction.

A bowl of toshikoshi soba on a red New Years plate.

Toshikoshi Soba: Wonderful for the New Year

When it comes to Japanese traditions around this time of year, most people think of osechi and kagami mochi. Did you also know that the Japanese eat soba on New Year’s Eve? Let’s take a look at this delicious tradition!