Author: Tokyo Terry

A basket of perilla leaves.

Perilla and Ume Shiso: What’s the Connection?

People first used the perilla herb in Southeast Asia in 500 CE. Traditional healers used it as a remedy for coughs, colds, allergies, and even food poisoning. People continue to use it as a traditional medicine today.

A plate of rare green tea powder, surrounded by wooden tea utensils.

Rare Tea from Japan? A Quick Guide!

The delicate cultivation of rare tea processes in Japan has helped preserve the country’s history. Its use in everyday life and religious ceremonies has made it a national icon and a cultural treasure. 

A bridge and a groom at a traditional Japanese wedding. The man is wearing a gray hakama and a black top, and the woman is wearing a white kimono.

What is a Japanese Wedding Like? A Look Into Shinto Rituals

A Japanese wedding is a beautiful example of how the country combines ancient rituals with modern influences. A traditional ceremony often revolves around Shinto practices, symbolizing purity, harmony, and good fortune. But, over time, couples in this country have also embraced Western weddings. 

A golden statue of Hotei. He has a bald head and a large belly.

Hotei and the Mythical Lucky Gods of Japan!

Across Japan, the “Seven Lucky Gods” are beloved symbols of fortune and prosperity. Today, we’ll learn about these mythical lucky gods and where you can see and celebrate them!

Hokkaido Island: The Best Place for the Winter Holidays!

Hokkaido is the northernmost island of Japan and the most significant island after Honshu. It is surrounded by the Sea of Japan, Okhotsk, and the Pacific Ocean. It is particularly busy during winter. Being so far north and surrounded by water, snowfall is guaranteed yearly. 

Himeiji Castle at night.

Kansai Region: Japan’s Amazing Western Area!  

The Kansai (関西) region in western Japan is the second-most populated area after the Kanto region. Despite this, it is likely the most culturally diverse area—even more so than Tokyo. It has an extraordinary mixture of historical and natural attractions. 

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.