A Ryokan is a traditional Japanese style inn that is found throughout Japan with its signature feature of tatami matted (mats made from rice straw) rooms and in house onsens (hot spring baths). Ryokans are priced at a slightly higher rate than a hotel and hostel. However, here are 5 reasons why a ryokan experience is a must-try during your visit to Japan.
CultureTravel TipsAll Japan
Botakyen
March 8, 2019
In a little place called doll town or ‘Ningyo no Machi’ on Takasago street in Matsumoto City, there are quite a few doll shops, each with their own unique charm. Depending on the time of year, you may either find lovely Japanese hina dolls for girls or even traditional Japanese kabuto helmets for boys.
CultureTravel TipsChubu
Koyomi
March 5, 2019
I’m just going to cut straight to the conclusion: you don’t. You can’t. At least, not yet. Now before you get discouraged or upset or say “this guy doesn't know what he’s talking about”, I ask that you stick with me until the end of this article and find out what I mean by “not yet”.
CultureAll Japan
David Rohrer
February 25, 2019
Those who maintain venerable traditions are highly valued in Kyoto. Even though maiko and the older geiko are part of an exclusive high society, there are not enough new recruits anymore. In the renowned Gion area they dart out of taxis into teahouses at twilight, so there is little chance to stop them for a photo.
CultureKansai
Steve McCarty
January 8, 2019
Here are a few things you can experience at the start of the New Year on the beautiful Ryukyu islands, which differ from mainland O-shogatsu.
CultureEventsOkinawa
Annabell
December 30, 2018
Knives used to carve them are specialized tools called “satou” or “hidari-ba” which are more like tiny scrapers than knives. They look like dental picks for mythical creatures to be used by monstrous dentists. I acquired my first set of satou knives from master carver Kazuaki Nakamura but I needed a knife suited to my individual needs: One that was curved in the opposite direction to the knife included in the set.
CultureAll Japan
Akira Fuyuno
November 6, 2018
“Kagura” refers to the Shinto theatrical dance dedicated to honor Shinto gods and are known to predate the Noh tradition, therefore, evolving as early as the 14th century. The Kagura Mai dance is perhaps one of the oldest forms of Japanese ritual dance performed in many shrines all over Japan, and consists of several types.
CultureAll Japan
Alma Reyes
September 28, 2018
Summer's here and for Japan, that means hot weather, exciting festivals, and fun cultural activities in every prefecture celebrated by all people young and old. With that said, Japan is the place to be this summer and here are 5 reasons why.
CultureFood & DrinkAll Japan
Koyomi
August 13, 2018
The Daibutsu (Great Buddha / 大仏) of Japan rank among the oldest, largest and most impressive in the world. Unbeknownst to most people there’s a very impressive Daibutsu statue in Japan’s capital.
CultureKanto
Dkun
August 10, 2018
The Noh performances are basically unchanged since they began over 650 years ago. When you watch, or are lucky enough to actually participate, there is an unavoidable connection to the past. The movements and music are hauntingly beautiful and the whole experience was one I will never forget.
CultureTohoku
Emily Schilb
July 14, 2018
With some knowledge of the local dialect and the following guide, I am sure you will enjoy your stay at Toyama city. Any season is a great time–why not drop by for a visit?
CultureEventsTravel TipsChubu
Grace
March 13, 2018
It amazed me how words written thousands of years ago by people long dead could come to shape our modern world on such a fundamental level. It also stunned me that so few of my fellow students seemed interested in what these ancient texts had to offer.
CultureAll Japan
Liam Carrigan
November 25, 2017
The traditional Japanese calendar, Rokuyo, while helpful in deciding which days are appropriate for important events, also serves as a guide to determine if the day will be lucky or not.
CultureAll Japan
Andrea Fraga
November 17, 2017
As it is the largest training monastery in Japan, it is fairly unique, and visiting is a great way to familiarize yourself with Zen Buddhism. Even those who are less interested in religion will no doubt be awed by this gorgeous temple.
CultureChubu
Alison Taylor
October 11, 2017
During Obon In Nagasaki, the spirits of the deceased are transported on a symbolic spirit boat. Each family makes and personalizes the boats according to the hobbies, lifestyle and favourite things of the loved ones that have departed.
CultureEventsKyushu
Ana Verissimo
August 23, 2017
In early history, the shrine was considered one of the highest ranking in all the land. It’s position facing the Hakata Bay has seen it long revered as a guardian for sea voyagers.
CultureKyushu
Louise Dupuy
August 5, 2017
If you are in Japan during the summer, chances are you will happen across a group of people celebrating Obon. It is primarily a time to honor one’s ancestors, but has also become an opportunity to visit relatives and generally relax.
CultureEventsAll Japan
Steven Askew
July 13, 2017
I knew absolutely nothing about Kyudou, but before I realized it, I had grabbed a friend and we signed up for classes within weeks.
CultureAll Japan
Jackson Lee
June 17, 2017
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