Category: Discover Japan

A plate of takoyaki (octopus balls) on a delicious platter.

Takoyaki and the Best Osaka Street Food!

Osakans call their love of food “Kuidadore,” which means “eat until you drop.” With a phrase like that, it’s no wonder Osaka has some of Japan’s best and most iconic street food!

Two cups of amazake with pickled sakura inside.

Amazake: The Rich History of Sweet Rice Wine!

You might have seen this drink at a Japanese shrine, or temple, or even served at a festival, but what is amazake? Let’s explore the origins of this tasty drink and talk about its role in Japanese cooking!

Two women in kimono walking down the street among cherry blossoms. There are many sakura words related to this vocabulary workshop.

Vocabulary Workshop: Best Words for Cherry Blossoms!

In Japan, the cherry blossom tree and its flowers signify spring. These blossoms bring luck and love but also reflect the reminder of life’s fragility due to their brief bloom. Their influence is everywhere, especially in the Japanese language.

A kokeshi doll dressed in an elaborate kimono in celebration of Girls Day.

Girls Day: The Best Hinamatsuri Treats!

Although people celebrate Christmas and New Year’s worldwide, Japan has certain unique national holidays. You may have heard of Hinamatsuri, often known as the “Doll Festival,” which is a particular occasion for young girls.

A vibrant pictures of cherry blossoms at night under a full moon.

The Cherry Blossom Drawing: Beautiful Art

The cherry blossom drawing in Japan has a rich history dating back to ancient times. This delicate flower, also known as the sakura, is unique to Japanese people. To them, it’s a symbol of fleeting beauty and the fleeting nature of life.

A tall, red and gold pagoda in Tochigi, a nature wonder.

Natural Wonder Best Highlights: Tochigi Prefecture

The natural wonder is present throughout Tochigi Prefecture. This makes it a favorite destination for many outdoor enthusiasts and worldwide tourists. Significantly, the mountainous northern region of Tochigi is famous in Japan.

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.