The Quintessential Japan Packing List
Knowing just what to pack for your Japan trip can be a headache, but with my handy packing list and a few key tips you’ll be packed in no time. I always find packing to be a double-edged sword. Exciting…
katinjapan.com
I’m Kat, and I live in Japan with my husband. I have a passion for skincare products and stationary. And some of my favorite things to do are hop on my bike, window-shop, and try new restaurants and coffee shops!
I'm also an artist in love with fantasy worlds, light, color, and the feeling of pencil hitting paper just the right way. I run the blog katinjapan.com and create comics whenever I have time.
The Best Places to see Sakura in Tokyo and Kyoto [2025]
Whether you’ve lived in Japan for awhile or you’re planning your next trip, one of the best things to do in Japan is go Sakura Viewing (花見 hanami). Ephemeral and delicate, these pale pink blooms capture the hearts of all,…
How to Convert your Foreign Driver’s License in Japan
Although Japan is widely known for its public transportation, many people still drive. In rural and suburban areas, cars are the primary means of transportation. In my experience this typically means that the buses are few and far between, and…
Miniblog: Coming Of Age In Japan
For me, the new year conjures up memories of Coming of Age Day (成人の日 Seijin no Hi). In Japan, Coming of Age Day occurs on the second Monday in January. It’s a day that celebrates those who reached the age…
Ringing the Bell – Celebrating New Year’s in Japan
In Japan, people ring in the New Year literally. Many people will go to a local temple where monks ring a giant bell in order to dispel the sins of the year. Called “Omisoka” 大晦日, December 31st is a day…
Miniblog: KFC Christmas in Japan
Nowadays, it’s widely known that Japan celebrates Christmas with KFC, originating with a near-genius marketing campaign. Takeshi Okawara, enterprising manager of the first KFC in Japan, started the tradition as a one-store campaign in the 70’s, and it just stuck. And can…
Miniblog: Eating Kohakuto, Japanese Crystal Candy
While watching TikToks in fall 2023, I became intrigued by several videos showcasing Japanese “crystal candy” Kohakutō’s ASMR-inducing crunch and elegant appearance were instantly fascinating. It’s colorful appearance and ability to be formed into fun shapes also captivated me. What…
How to Renew your US Passport in Japan by Mail
Renewing your passport in another country can feel daunting. Do you have to go in person? Is mailing-in your passport safe? And how long does it take? All these questions swirled in my head as I prepared my documents to…