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Travel Tips

Culture

Best places to see cherry blossom in Japan

We still recommend you travel from late March to April if you are travelling in Honshu, the main island of Japan (or into May if you are travelling to Hokkaido), but include a few different microclimate spots such as lower and higher altitudes, coastal towns and in the mountains to maximize your viewing.

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Travel Tips

Choosing the right tour of Japan

Choosing the right way to experience Japan depends on your travel style, preferences, and priorities. Whether you prefer complete independence, a structured group tour, or a private guided experience, there are many ways to explore Japan.

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Travel Tips

Unique accommodation in Japan

There is a wide range of accommodation types available in Japan. You will find thousands of options for a western style hotel throughout the country. However hotels are not the only places you can spend a night in Japan.

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Culture

Japanese flowers other than cherry blossoms

Cherry blossoms would be the biggest attraction during spring in Japan for many people. However, Japan has many more spectacular flower scenes that can be enjoyed in addition to cherry blossoms. Here are some other Japanese flowers you should not miss if you are in Japan outside the cherry blossom season!

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Culture

How to enjoy Japanese baths (onsen)

Europeans had a form of public bath-based culture on the thermae of the Roman Empire. However today a shower is more common as a daily personal hygiene practice in many western countries. For Japanese, nothing is better than soaking in a hot tub at the end of each day.

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Festivals

Valentine’s Day in Japan

Is Valentine’s Day celebrated in Japan? Valentine’s Day occurs every February 14th around the world and generally people exchange candy, flowers and gifts between loved ones and special friends. Indeed, when the tradition started men gave gifts to ladies they secretly admired.

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Travel Tips

Luggage transfer service in Japan

Some guests prefer to travel with a cabin sized carry-on roller bag rather than a suitcase and do not wish to utilise the luggage transfer service. However, whatever bag you choose, you should feel comfortable carrying it yourself when travelling by train.

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Travel Tips

Cherry Blossom Season Forecast

Each year there is a new Cherry Blossom Forecast because the climate varies every year, affecting the dates. The trees generally only bloom for 1-2 weeks in each location and so the Japanese are always keen to know when they are likely to see the blooms.

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Eating Takoyaki (octopus ball), a typical Osaka snack
Travel Tips

Must-try top 5 street food in Japan

There is a wide range of choices in the Japanese food scene from yatai* and izakaya style local pubs to Michelin starred restaurants. You will also be amazed by varieties of packed obento boxes, sandwiches and sweets at convenience stores in Japan. If food is one of the top reasons you visit Japan you do not want to miss experiencing street food during your stay.

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