Your guide to ETC cards in Japan
Getting an ETC card as a foreigner can be daunting, but don’t worry! With a little bit of paperwork-filling and elbow grease, you can get an ETC card fairly quickly. Find out how to get an ETC card for your car…
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 Ultimate Guide to Traveling on a Budget in Japan
Is it possible to travel to Japan on a budget? How much money do you really need? Traveling to Japan on a budget may seem impossible, but it’s quite the opposite! In fact, Japan can be extremely budget-friendly if you…
Miniblog: Mashiko Pottery Fair
During our excursions in Tochigi prefecture last year, we visited Mashiko Pottery Fair. Held twice a year, this festival is a popular destination in Mashiko, which is well-known for its ceramics. Many potters set up shop in the quiet town,…
Best 10 Things to do in Asakusa
Asakusa is hands down one of my favorite parts of Tokyo. It has a great mix of tourist attractions and hidden gems. And its signature mix of old and new draws people in like a magnet. Situated in north-east Tokyo, Asakusa is…
What to Wear as an ALT in Summer
It’s no secret that summer in Japan is meltingly hot. Humid air meets blazing sun, and in rainy season 梅雨 (tsuyu), the moist air kicks everything up a notch. Soon you’ll find yourself sweating through your clothes if you don’t…
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…
The Best Places to see Sakura in Tokyo and Kyoto [2026]
Whether you’ve lived in Japan for a while 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…
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 means that buses are few and far between, and the few…