Author: Tokyo Terry

Abashiri Icebreaker Cruise riding through a sheet of ice.

Japan Cruise Spotlight: The Ultimate Guide to Abashiri Icebreaker!

Japan offers a diverse range of cruise experiences, taking in various stunning landscapes. But, in the chilly grip of winter, some voyages pull in adventurers from around the globe. At the forefront of these wintry trips is the Abashiri Icebreaker Cruise in Hokkaido.

A ceramic figurine representing the Year of the Horse.

Year of the Horse: A Ride Through Japan’s Past!

The lunar zodiac cycles have been an integral part of Japanese society for hundreds of years. Each animal in this 12-year loop has its own unique energy that is woven into festivals, fortunes, and daily decisions. The coming new year will mark the start of The Year of the Horse. And, as we charge into 2026, the horse (uma) will be the animal on everyone’s minds. 

Printed Japanese paper, or karakami, on display.

Japanese Paper: The Secret Behind the Art of Karakami

Paper has always played a significant role in Japanese culture. It is the foundation of many of the country’s art forms and plays a vital role in numerous customs. But karakami stands out among Japanese paper types as an irreplaceable part of many traditional Japanese art forms and ceremonies. It adds its elegance to all manner of aesthetics, in crafts, ceremonies, writings, and even interior design. 

A box of matcha tiramisu and fresh matcha from a cafe called Maccha House.

Matcha Cafe Spotlight: The Ultimate Guide to Maccha House

The matcha cafe has revived the tea ceremony tradition in a more fun and relaxed setting, especially in urban areas. Today, we’ll take a look at one such establishment – Maccha House. Let’s find out how it, along with other matcha cafes, helps keep the country’s tea culture alive

A preserved town on the Nakasendo Trail.

Nakasendo Trail: The Legendary Path Through Japan’s Edo Past

Japan’s wilderness is full of ancient trails carefully threading their way through mountains and along riverbanks. Nakasendo is one such trail. This central route through the Japanese Alps was carved through the country’s landscape to connect empires and project shogun power. But it didn’t only move people and goods. 

A bunch of crispy yuba chips.

Tofu Chips: What is the Story Behind Yuba?

Tofu is a staple of Japanese cuisine and is consumed in many forms. It is commonly seen in its soft, jelly-like state at supermarkets across Japan. But did you know that it can also be transformed into a crunchy snack and eaten in the form of chips? Their unique texture has been known since the 10th century. 

A shrine in Nikko during the colorful autumn koyo season.

Nikko Koyo: Japan’s Stunning Autumn Foliage

Nikko’s location just north of the capital in Tochigi Prefecture has made it one of the country’s most popular destinations. But this city shines brightest during autumn, when the vibrant foliage of the surrounding forests and mountains becomes especially striking. But what exactly is Nikko koyo?