Japan

Tips from the community

While Christmas is generally treated as a romantic holiday in Japan, akin to Valentine's day, the New Year celebration is seen as family time- and lasts until January 3rd. Families gather to visit the temple at midnight and ring in a year of good luck, along with enjoying a traditional Osechi meal, a curated meal that attracts various good fortunes and celebrates the fresh start of the new year.

seeker 1 year ago

Japan has a unique culture that spans centuries, and the gorgeous country has no shortage of incredible cultural experiences that welcome retired travelers to experience something new. Japan offers a travel visa that allows retired tourists a full year to explore the islands of the country, indulge in fresh Japanese cuisine, and sample traditional activities such as flower arrangement, pottery, cooking, and more.

seeker 1 year ago

Japan is a captivating country known for its rich culture, delicious cuisine, and stunning natural landscapes. From bustling Tokyo to historic Kyoto, there's something for every traveler in this land of the rising sun. Whether you're exploring ancient temples, sampling sushi, or soaking in a hot spring, Japan offers an unforgettable experience that's not to be missed.

seeker 2 weeks ago

Lost in Japan by Shawn Mendes

laura_comin 2 years ago

Japan Lists

  • Fave Things to Do in Japan

    booksandbao (Jessica Esa)
  • Fave Free Things to Do in Tokyo

    laurenallain (Lauren Allain)
  • Nerdy Tokyo

    WillHarris (Will Harris)
  • Japan

    vintageels (Els van der Walt)
    2 weeks
  • Japan Trip Ideas

    brandonjosephmills (Brandon Mills)
  • Tokyo 2020: Top 10 Sights In The City

    seeker (Seeker Editors)
    The Olympics have sparked the planning for our next big Tokyo adventure, and while we can’t go right now- we are living vicariously through making lists. Nothing like the eclectic mix of old and new, with ancient shrines and electric cities overflowing in second-hand electronics and *kawaii*. Tokyo city is fascinating, colorful, and full of endless discovery, as you will quickly notice while we take you through these bucket-list-worthy spots throughout the city.
  • Best Things To Do In Futako Tamagawa

    madeleineray (Madeleine Ray)
    You may be planning your big Shibuya or Akihabara adventure, but what if you take the train a few stops further and explore this hidden gem neighborhood. Futako Tamagawa, or more casually known as "Nikotama" is a contemporary oasis of fine cuisine, high-end shopping, and stunning natural scenery. Explore the sprawling Hyogojima park, shop until you drop at the famous Nikotama Rise shopping center, or get lost in a comforting book with a cup of coffee at Tsutaya Electrics, whatever you seek to explore- Nikotama has the place.
  • Where To Go In Japan For The Onsen Experience

    madeleineray (Madeleine Ray)
    The Onsen experience is one you just can't beat, natural steaming waters with healing properties in quaint villages surrounded by the beauty of Japanese nature- what could be a more relaxing experience? From up north in Hokkaido to Kobe- these prime tourist spots are brimming with authentic resorts, mouthwatering food, and outdoorsy fun. So what are you waiting for (other than the Japanese border to open for tourism)? Let's take a dip in some of the most famous Onsen cities throughout Japan.
  • Cute Date Ideas In Tokyo

    madeleineray (Madeleine Ray)
    Tokyo is famous for being an exciting destination full of activity, and there are an overwhelming amount of places, restaurants, and things to do and see- so I have narrowed it down a little for you. Any of these gorgeous spots throughout the city are guaranteed success if you are with the right person. From nostalgic amusement parks to quaint parks adjacent to some of the most eccentric neighborhoods- these spots are perfect for an afternoon, evening, or all-day getaway with your date.
  • Must See Destinations In Kyoto

    madeleineray (Madeleine Ray)
    Kyoto is the historic capital of Japan- a breathtakingly beautiful city that has held onto traditional architecture and culture to an extent that has solidified its spot as one of the most beautiful cities to visit in the world. Kyoto is famous for ancient temples in pristine condition, natural beauty, and matcha flavored sweets. From stone pathways alongside cherry blossom-adorned canals to massive Buddhist temples overlooking the city- these are my top picks for your Kyoto bucket list.
  • Tokyo Golden Week Destinations

    madeleineray (Madeleine Ray)
    Golden Week is here! Japan's longest national holiday located at the edge of summer and spring- aka the perfect time to head out to Tokyo and explore. I know you already know the usual culprits to enjoy in Tokyo, so for this list, we are going a bit off the beaten path into some more creative day trip ideas for how to enjoy your Golden Week. Whether it's exploring an immersive art gallery in the heart of Shinjuku or snuggling close to a micro pig in Takeshita Dori- these incredible destinations are sure to fill up your Golden Week with plenty of fun.
  • Cool Down The Summer Heat: Chillingly Haunted Tokyo Destinations

    madeleineray (Madeleine Ray)
    Nothing says Tokyo Summer like a good ghost story- the hot and humid days are believed to be best combated with chilling tales and haunted houses. In case you are looking for something to make your bones go icy and shiver, these spooky destinations across Tokyo city are sure to do the trick. Visit cursed graves, explore haunted castle ruins, and witness the birthplace of one of Japan’s most famous ghost stories of all time.
  • My Favorite Neighborhoods In Tokyo

    madeleineray (Madeleine Ray)
    These neighborhoods are easily some of the most magical spots I explored during my time living in Tokyo. From the effervescent streets of Shimokitazawa to the bustling scramble of Shibuya, these destinations host some of the city's most exciting and beautiful spots to see. With endless thrift shops, boutiques, landmarks, eateries, and more, be sure to include these neighborhoods on your Tokyo itinerary.
  • Hanami Spots In Tokyo 2022

    madeleineray (Madeleine Ray)
    Sprawling parks by the sea, rivers lined with trees reflecting in tranquil water, massive festivals, and a neon glow of the Tokyo Tower illuminating a haunting spread of pink- Hanami season is upon us. Hanami translates to "Flower Viewing", a seasonal event that involves picnic blankets and alcohol- with plenty of cherry blossoms blooming all around. These locations throughout the city are known for being some of the most coveted spots for Hanami, so grab your blanket and snacks- let's witness some of Tokyo's most breathtaking sakura trees this spring.
  • Best Things to Do in Japan

    WillHarris (Will Harris)
  • Where To See Fall Foliage In Tokyo

    madeleineray (Madeleine Ray)
    Fall sweeps over Tokyo in a flurry of chestnut flavored desserts, heated vending machine drinks, and red-pigmented leaves dancing in a flurry throughout the city. In Japan the changing of seasons is significant, and the early signs of autumn leading into winter are to be cherished. Here are some gorgeous, sprawling city parks to explore while adventuring out in Tokyo. Take a breath away from the hustle and bustle of the metropolitan streets, and embrace the warm hues of red, orange, and yellow at these gorgeous destinations.
  • Places I want to see

    shammell12 (Samantha Hammell)
  • Top Destinations in Tokyo

    seeker (Seeker Editors)
    Tokyo is one of the most exciting cities you can visit in the world. Along with the pure electricity of bustling streets and neon lights, Tokyo has plenty of open parks, and chances to get a taste of traditional Japanese culture. You can sip sake underneath pink blooming cherry blossoms in Ueno Park, and get lost in the kawaii pop culture of Harajuku, Tokyo has endless amounts of fun activities for the entire family to fill up your itinerary.
  • Most Beautiful National Parks In Asia

    seeker (Seeker Editors)
    Explore picturesque valleys decorated in Himalayan flowers in India or visit shrines alongside quaint mountainside pathways in South Korea, these gorgeous national parks are some of the most unique and breathtaking around the world. Imagine ancient bamboo forests, majestic shrines, and lush jungles- across the continent there is no limit to the diverse and vast landscapes that you can uncover in your travels. These are just some of our personal favorite National Parks in Asia that encompass the diverse landscapes and rare wildlife to inspire you for your next adventure.
  • Shibuya and Harajuku Guide

    madeleineray (Madeleine Ray)
    Shibuya and Harajuku are close-by areas in Tokyo that are at the center of Japanese youth culture. Along with the trendiest shops, tastiest food, and most fashionable people, Shibuya and Harajuku offer once-in-a-lifetime experiences that give you a taste of life in Tokyo. From the iconic Shibuya Crossing to hidden drinking alleyways, the streets of Shibuya city are full of surprises. On this list, we included our top shops, restaurants, and locations which we feel encompass some of the most fun parts of traveling to Tokyo.

Japan Images

Japan Articles

  • 38 of the Most Unique Hotels in the World

    When it comes to sleeping around the world, we have no reservations. Fancy resorts? Cheap hostels? Quirky hotels? Been there, done that. From planes and trains to a decommissioned oil rig to ice hotels and igloos, we get around, booking unique hotels that come in all sorts of shapes, sizes, and surroundings. We’ve traveled to […]

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  • The Most Unusual Places to Sleep, According to 12 Travel Experts

    Years of traveling paints a pretty clear picture of what a “normal” hotel experience is, but these travelers stepped (way) outside the box. Waking up to elephants outside of your window in South Africa, hostels reimagined from *actual* forts on remote islands off the coast of France, hotels sculpted entirely of ice in Quebec (brrr), […]

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  • The Best Art Museums & Galleries in Tokyo

    As you explore the winding roads of Tokyo—small alleyways lined with lanterns, bustling walkways beneath neon signs, gardens dotted with cotton-candy pink cherry blossom trees—you’re bound to stumble upon some of the best art in the city. Tokyo has an abundance of world-class art museums and galleries, featuring everything from cutting-edge, contemporary exhibits to ancient […]

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  • 33 of the Luckiest Places in the World

    It’s time to get lucky. Travelers in search of health, wealth, and happiness have dozens of destinations to choose from in their quest for good luck. From statues and fountains to temples and natural wonders, luck comes in all shapes and sizes. As luck would have it, we traveled to 33 of the luckiest places in […]

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  • 8 Purple Places You Need to Add to Your Bucket List

    Can’t talk right now — we’re doing cartwheels in France’s fragrant lavender fields and running around futuristic, purple-hued parks in Singapore. It’s a lifestyle, ya know? But for real, once you see some of the world’s best purple places, you’ll want to switch that vacation responder on and bask in the magic of magenta. These […]

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  • 14 Green Places You Need to Add to Your Bucket List

    “Are they talking about sustainability or what?”  —Most people, before reading this introduction. No folks, we’re talking about literal green places— although it makes sense that the two usually go hand-in-hand. From rainforests and misty pine tree-covered wonderlands to emerald-colored palaces and living, breathing skyscrapers, “green travel” brings an impressive amount of beauty. Buckle up and […]

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  • 10 Theme Park Celebrations For a Holly, Jolly Holiday

    We know 2020 has been a real Scrooge, but even with modified offerings and health measures in place, theme parks around the world are bringing major Christmas cheer this holiday season. From festive decor to live entertainment and over-the-top holiday treats, even that mean old Scrooge might get a smile on his face. There’s snow […]

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  • 10 of the Best Theme Park Bars in the World

    Amusement parks aren’t always known as the best place to saddle up to the bar for a frosty beer or fancy cocktail, but most have a hidden gem or two that can hold their own against your favorite local haunt. From hand-crafted mixed drinks to cozy couches and gorgeous scenery, these watering holes will blow […]

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  • 9 Yellow Places You Need to Add to Your Bucket List

    Singer-songwriter Donovan knew exactly what he was talking about when he wrote that song “Mellow Yellow.” This color is an absolute mood booster. And when the sun shines, these locations brighten up our days even more than usual. So grab a banana for the road (to match your surroundings, duh) and explore 9 of the […]

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  • 11 Orange Places You Need to Add to Your Bucket List

    Dreamsicle-colored deserts (not desserts, for once) cover our planet…and they’re not the only show-stopping orange places around the globe. Orange festivals, orange cities, orange monuments —whether you prefer to sweat your way through arid ginger-scapes or dance through a valley of delicate flowers, you’ll have ample opportunity for both. Check out these 11 orange travel […]

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  • 11 Red Travel Destinations For Your Bucket List

    Ah, the rich color of red. Often associated with love and romance (or anger for a stark contrast!), this hue is undeniably bold and assertive regardless of what it denotes. But when it comes to traveling the world, the color red offers an entirely different experience. Cherry-colored lakes and ornate temples drenched in scarlet are […]

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  • 36 of the Most Colorful Places in the World

    Curiously crimson landscapes that are (somehow) natural and Gatorade-level hues of blue are found in droves across our travel rainbow—along with every other eclectic shade in between. Mother Nature formed and human-made alike, these destinations provide a hearty dose of monochromatic magnificence that’ll have you reconsidering your favorite color left and right. Toss out everything you […]

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  • The Best Theme Parks Halloween Events for 2022

    Theme parks around the world have devised some positively devilish ways to keep the Halloween spirit alive— or in this case, undead—in 2022. This year, look forward to haunted houses, nighttime coaster rides, pumpkin-spiced treats, and sprawling scare zones with creepy creatures lurking behind every dark corner. Don’t be a jerk-o-lantern: grab a friend and […]

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  • Best Winter Festivals Around the World 2022

    Can’t afford a steamy tropical vacation this winter? No worries. Bundle up embrace the cold with these super cozy (and family-friendly) winter festivals found around the world. Some of the best winter vacation spots are hiding right in plain sight: explore majestic ice sculptures in China, watch twinkling lights in the Netherlands, compete in winter […]

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  • 20 Pink Places You Need to Add to Your Bucket List

    Dive into the trendiest color of the decade. Whether you’ve just hopped on the pink train or have always loved the color, check out these photo-worthy pink places around the world to satisfy your pink obsession while traveling. 23 Prettiest Pink Places in the World With a combination of Gothic, Roman and Baroque design, Tan […]

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  • Amazing Travel Destinations for Yoga Retreats

    Once upon a time, traveling yogis made pilgrimages to the birthplace of their practice — India— to learn from their gurus. While India still makes the hot list of best yoga destinations, modern yogis are blessed with a variety of international destinations to choose from when they head off on a soul-searching adventure. Here are […]

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  • Birds Eye View: 23 Incredible Places From Above

    From candy-colored mountains to palm leaf-shaped islands, the world as we know it looks completely different when viewed from the clouds. While hidden wonders exist all around the world, we compiled a list of places that totally transform when viewed from above. Here are 23 of the best bird’s eye views in the world: 23 […]

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  • The Best Unconventional Beaches For Your Non-Tropical Vacation

    Pina Colada in hand, toes in the sand, serenity increasing with each wave as it quietly laps onto the shore and then disappears. There’s no denying a vacation on the beach is often just what we need to hit the reset button. More often than not, this idyllic beach destination belongs in the tropical family […]

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  • 40 Free Things to Do in Tokyo

    Tokyo! The city you’ve always wanted to visit, and now you’re finally going. But your mom read on the internet (Facebook) that Tokyo is “expensive,” and she’s concerned about you. She suggested packing some granola bars to offset the cost of food. She’s not entirely wrong. The overwhelming sentiment is that Tokyo, and Japan on […]

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  • Tokyo on a Budget: 8 Places to Eat (Without Breaking the Bank)

    So here’s the scoop: Japan is simultaneously one of the greatest food capitals of the world and also one of the most expensive when it comes to dining out. This can be daunting if you are exploring Tokyo on a budget (which is still traditional, local, and delicious, by the way). In Japan, the idea […]

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  • 45 of the Best Things To Do in Japan

    Japan: one of the most fruitful (and beautiful) nations on Earth. While other travel destinations may have just a single city, mountain, museum, castle, or cuisine to draw travellers and tourists in, there are thousands of things to do in Japan. Plus some. There’s seriously no end to what Japan has to offer, and it’s possibly […]

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  • A Nerd’s Guide to Tokyo: 15 of the Best Things to Do

    Tokyo, more than any other city on Earth, is a golden land of nerd culture. So much of nerd fandom originated here (and boy does it show). From video games to anime, samurai to geisha, there is so much to explore, discover, and adore in nerdy Tokyo. Akihabara District (Accessible via the Yamanote, Chuo-Sobu, and […]

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  • Japan’s Best Cherry Blossom Festivals for 2022

    Cherry blossom season, also known as the sakura or hanami flower-watching season, brings life and magic to Japan each spring. Admiring the flowers’ fleeting beauty is a practice that dates back over a thousand years. The small, delicate pink sakura and ume plum blossoms flower at different times throughout the season. The massive bloom starts […]

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  • Mysterious Places: 10 of the Spookiest Spots to Visit on Earth

    If you’re into spooky stories, unexplainable events, and haunted places, then you’ve landed in the right place. The world is filled to the brim with landmarks that remain a riddle…to this day. Mystery enthusiasts: just like you, we’re all about indulging our weird and unusual interests, so we’ve created this bucket list of mysterious places […]

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  • Places to see in Tokyo Beyond Shibuya Crossing

    Neon lights everywhere, drunk salarymen stumbling in the streets, squishing yourself on the trains overflowing with hurried commuters, robots, steaming bowls of ramen, robots serving ramen — this is how everyone in the world views Tokyo — except those who’ve been there and found things to do in Tokyo outside of the city. Yep, Tokyo’s […]

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  • Mountain Peaks That (Nearly) Anyone Can Conquer

    Some may call this the cheater’s collection of mountaineering feats, but we prefer to think of it as sensational bucket-list challenges that are totally within everyone’s reach. It’s important to note that not all of these ‘easy mountain peaks’ are a total breeze. Some are darn hard work. But what they have in common is […]

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  • The Best Cities To Ring in New Year’s Eve 2023

    There’s no denying that some cities around the world have a thing for NYE. Usually, a sensational backdrop and tons of fireworks do the trick, but there’s more to it than that. The best cities to celebrate NYE in style offer that little something extra, be it the brightest fireworks display, the most unusual traditions, […]

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  • The 5 Best Glamping Sites in the World

    Glamping, or luxury camping, has made a resurgence as a favorite travel trend. It’s a way of getting out into the world without sacrificing all of the comforts of home. And there is quite possibly nothing more romantic. The best camps are like the set of a film scene, allowing you to weave your own […]

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