Author: Thalia Harris

A person in Nakameguro looking at the cherry blossoms at night.

Nakameguro and Beyond: Best Places to Enjoy Yozakura in Japan

While Nakameguro is a must-visit, it’s far from the only place to enjoy night cherry blossoms in Japan. From peaceful moat-lined walkways to historic gardens and castle parks, exploring beyond Nakameguro reveals just how diverse and memorable yozakura can be.

Figure skaters Riku Miura and Ryuichi Kihara accept their medals at the 2026 Winter Olympics.

Japan’s Medal Breakthrough at the 2026 Winter Olympics!

The 2026 Winter Olympics, held in Milan and Cortina d’Ampezzo, marked a defining moment for Japan’s winter sports program. Facing off against the world’s strongest teams, Japan delivered its best-ever performance at the Winter Games.

A cup of cherry blossom tea.

Cherry Blossoms in Japanese Culture: A Guide

Every spring, people across Japan gather beneath blooming cherry trees for a tradition known as hanami, which means “flower viewing.” While it may look like a simple picnic today, hanami has deep roots stretching back over a thousand years. Let’s take a closer look at cherry blossoms in Japanese culture.

A tuna statue in Cape Oma.

Tuna Fishing in Ōma and Why It’s Important

In Aomori Prefecture lies a small, wind-swept town with an outsized reputation: Ōma. Known across the country—and increasingly around the world—Ōma is synonymous with one thing above all else: exceptional bluefin tuna.

Oshogatsu: A Glimpse into Japanese New Year’s!

Oshogatsu is Japanese New Year’s, an important holiday across the nation! From interesting snacks to midnight traditions, here’s everything you need to know about this important holiday! Let’s get started!

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.