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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…
On the second Monday of January each year, thousands of 18 to 20-year-olds gather for Coming of Age Day in Japan. It’s a day that celebrates those who reached the age of majority the previous year, where participants gather at…
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…
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…
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…
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…
From November to January, the air grows chill. Leaves turn signature shades of orange, red and yellow. Bright illumination graces the city streets, bathing everything in the ethereal glow I’ve come to associate with Winter in Japan. Unlike the US,…
The first time I traveled to Japan, there were several things I wished I had in my bag. After several stops to public restrooms left me with dripping hands, I needed a hand towel. Not to mention a pass-holder for…