Category: Discover Japan

A woman wearing an indigo blue yukata while holding a blue uchiwa fan.

Yukata vs. Kimono: The Best Summer Guide

Japanese culture is full of unique traditions and customs, and one of its most iconic and recognizable aspects is the traditional clothing worn by Japanese people. Two of the most famous examples of Japanese clothing are the yukata and the kimono.

A plate of dark, red bean uiro mochi.

Uiro Mochi: The Amazing Traditional Steamed Cake 

Japan is a sweet rice cake paradise, ranging from lovely daifuku mochi (sweet sticky rice cake) to crispy senbei (dry rice cake). Uiro is one of the oldest mochi cakes with a unique shape and flavor.

Rows and rows of strawberry daifuku.

The Best Strawberry Daifuku Flavors from Japan!

Experience a fantastic fusion of Japanese and Western-style desserts with ichigo daifuku (strawberry daifuku). Ichigo daifuku is a seasonal delight usually consumed in the spring when strawberries are in season.

A beach hat, blue flip flops and bag on a beach during summer in Japan.

Ways to Have the Best Summer in Japan!

Summer in Japan usually feels hot and humid. But there are plenty of season-specific adventures to enjoy that don’t involve overheating in the sun! Japan is full of wonder and attractions, and visiting Japan in the summer is a colorful and beautiful adventure.

A mother and a daughter laughing at a bar in the spirit of Mother's Day and gift baskets for Mom.

Gift Baskets for Mom: Best Traditional Japanese Edition!

When making gift baskets for Mom, especially on Mother’s Day, common gifts include fruit baskets, a day brunch, and even a home spa day! But if your special someone wants a unique gift this May, why not give her a traditional Japanese gift?

A brilliantly pink cherry blossom tree on a hill in Shizuoka.

Shizuoka: The Best Sakura Viewing Spots

If you want to make the most of spring, you’re in the right place! The sakura trees in Shizuoka prefecture are famous for blooming earlier than usual. 

Two people exchanging a red gift box. Gifts for Japanese business associates are important for good relationships.

The Best Gifts for Japanese Business Associates

In Japanese culture and society, corporate gifts are widely accepted and valued, just like in most other countries worldwide. Giving gifts is a big deal in Japanese culture since it shows respect, friendship, and appreciation. 

A box of small traditional Japanese gift boxes, wrapped with thin string.

The Best Traditional Japanese Gifts for Housewarming!

You are in the right place if you have someone in your life that is obsessed with Japan and its culture. The following guide is a thoughtful, in-depth list of the best Japanese housewarming gift ideas for anyone who loves Japanese culture and anything Japanese.