Japan
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Japan Guides
Fave Things to Do in Japan
booksandbao (Jessica Esa)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.Fave Free Things to Do in Tokyo
laurenallain (Lauren Allain)Nerdy Tokyo
WillHarris (Will Harris)Chain Restaurants in Tokyo for Good Food at a Low-Cost
madeleineray (Madeleine Ray) Foodies can also be budget travelers in Tokyo, there are so many options for inexpensive but delicious food in the city! When it comes to chain restaurants, not everyone is a fan, but I promise you that eating at these spots provides insight into what it’s like living in Japan while being conscious of spending. Whether you are craving Japanese curry, donburi, or ramen- there are tasty and inexpensive options available. Living in Tokyo as a college student meant I was constantly trying to live frugally while still enjoying authentic Japanese cuisine. I've gathered some of my favorite spots for Japanese comfort food that won't break the bank.Things To Do and Food To Eat Near Roppongi Station
madeleineray (Madeleine Ray) Roppongi is a famous district in Tokyo that is surrounded by a huge variety of entertainment and food options. From some of the most established art galleries in Tokyo, delicious Japanese food, sprawling parks, and vibrant after-hours; Roppongi never disappoints. Visit Roppongi Hills and view the mesmerizing statue of “Maman’ by Louise Bourgeois amongst artificial waterfalls, top-of-the-line shopping, and just down a stairwell you can see the bustling side of Tokyo nightlife; with dive bars full of character amongst late-night ramen and sushi shops. While this sprawling metropolis can be overwhelming, I have gathered a list of some of the best things to see, do and naturally, *eat* in Roppongi!Japan
vintageels (Els van der Walt) 2 weeksWhere to go for Matcha in Kyoto
madeleineray (Madeleine Ray) Matcha is a finely ground powder made from green tea leaves. While matcha has spread to be a globally loved and consumed flavor; arguably the best matcha in the world can be found in Uji, Kyoto. Uji is a district of Kyoto known as the birthplace of traditional Japanese tea ceremonies, and people from all over Japan flock to this district to try authentic and fresh matcha treats. If you are taking time to explore all of the hidden treasures and traditional architecture and culture of Kyoto, you need to include an afternoon enjoying matcha as part of your checklist.Japan Trip Ideas
brandonjosephmills (Brandon Mills)Best Thrift Shopping in Shimokitazawa
madeleineray (Madeleine Ray) The patchwork of secondhand and vintage stores lining the winding streets near Shimokitazawa station are enchanting; with cafes, record shops, and arcades in between, the area is famously trendy yet more low key than Shibuya or Harajuku. Shimokitazawa is known for having a seemingly endless amount of fashionable shops catering to any subculture you can imagine. As someone passionate about shopping ethically and who is always looking for unique pieces to add to my wardrobe, I have spent countless day-long shopping sprees scouring thrift shops around every corner of ShimoKita. I’ve made a list of my go-to spots representing a variety of different trends for any thrifter who is looking to spend a day or two exploring one of the most unique assortments of secondhand and vintage boutiques you can find in Tokyo.Night Out in Tokyo
madeleineray (Madeleine Ray) Getting lost in Tokyo’s animated nightlife amongst the neon lights and bustling streets of Roppongi and Shibuya is a unique experience that cannot be compared to anywhere else. The city changes once the clock hits 10 pm and hidden in plain sight are some of the best bars and clubs that Tokyo has to offer. Naturally, we all have our own tastes, some people love luxury bars with artisan cocktails, others seek intense house music, and some just love to dance to the top 40. Tokyo has a place for everyone and a nightlife culture that seeks to include rather than be exclusive. I have selected some of the best spots that all have a distinctive vibe. Visit as many of these places as you like- the clubs in Tokyo often don’t close until 5:00 am. This is a last-train to first-train guide on immersing yourself in Tokyo after hours.Adorable Cafes to visit in Tokyo
madeleineray (Madeleine Ray) Amongst famous Pokemon and Hello Kitty cafes as well as dozens of owl and maid cafes; the cafe culture in Tokyo is a unique one. This list is primarily focused on the most delicious coffee combined with an aesthetically pleasant atmosphere. I have gathered some of the hidden gems scattered around Tokyo, for any coffee lover to enjoy some of the best coffee shops in the city. Whether you like tea, coffee, cute subculture, or artisanal drinks, this list has something for you.Cafe and Bar Guide to Shimokitazawa
madeleineray (Madeleine Ray) Shimokitazawa is a neighborhood in Tokyo full of delicious restaurants, bars, and cafes for nourishment as well as great shopping, and arcades for entertainment! As someone who lived in Tokyo for five years, Shimo was always my favorite place to take visitors- it's less packed than popular tourist spots and also offers access to delicious Japanese food and some of the most instagrammable cafes in Tokyo city. The vibe in Shimo is friendly and eclectic, adorned with second-hand stores and any type of food you can imagine. For this guide, I have gathered a list of great cafes and bars in Shimokitazawa to relax during your busy Tokyo days.Things to do in Shibuya
madeleineray (Madeleine Ray) Shibuya is easily one of the top tourist destinations in Tokyo. This lively part of the city encompasses all culture and entertainment, with stunning art galleries, shopping malls, and breathtaking views. With the iconic Shibuya Crossing right outside of the station, you are immediately exposed to neon lights and bustling streets. Enjoy delicious food, fashion boutiques, and anything you can imagine in what could be considered the center of all Japanese pop culture.Tokyo Art Museums
madeleineray (Madeleine Ray)Things to Do and Eat in Kichijoji
madeleineray (Madeleine Ray) Kichijoji is a neighborhood on the edge of Tokyo that provides some of the most unique and fun experiences the city has to offer. Along with rows of extensive shopping and delicious food and culture, the area is also famous for the large Inokashira park which houses the world-famous Ghibli Museum. I really recommend visiting Kichijoji to anyone travelling to Tokyo, the area is truly unique and encapsulates another side of daily life in Japan that isn't as accessible in more tourist-heavy areas. Enjoy this list of some of the tastiest food and most fun activities to do in Kichijoji!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.Must Eat Sweets in Harajuku
madeleineray (Madeleine Ray) Along with eccentric fashion, alleyways stuffed with world-famous boutiques, and loads of Japanese pop culture; Harajuku is famous for its endless amount of sweets. When I first moved to Tokyo in 2014, the go-to snack in Harajuku was Japanese style crepes, but the newest trend in the area is Bubble tea. Bubble tea became so popular in Tokyo that you can find it at the convenience store or at local fast-food chains. Other iconic desserts from Harajuku are insanely fluffy pancakes, honey toast, and of course the world-famous Kawaii Monster Cafe. While the trends are always changing in the world of sugary treats, in this list I’ve included some classic favorites from the hay-day of Harajuku fashion as well as the latest spots for you. My Tokyo weekends were not complete without grabbing a bubble tea and visiting the stylish boutiques along Cat Street.Must See Shopping Boutiques in Harajuku and Shibuya
madeleineray (Madeleine Ray) Along the looping Yamanote line lies the center of Japanese pop culture and fashion, the infamous Shibuya and Harajuku stations. Just 2 minutes apart by train and 15 by walking, no trip to Tokyo is complete without exploring this winding and bustling metropolitan shopping haven. You can find anything you need here from stationary to plush animals. I created a list of the must-see stops for your day in Shibuya and Harajuku for the most unique shopping experience in Tokyo.Best Breakfasts in Tokyo
madeleineray (Madeleine Ray) In case it isn't clear yet, breakfast is my favorite meal. I love trying out traditional-style breakfasts across the world, nothing beats starting a day of exploration with a hearty meal. My personal tastes aside, breakfast culture in Tokyo is something you cannot miss, check out my favorite destinations, from authentic Japanese style cooking to the fluffiest Hawaiian-inspired pancakes on the planet.
Japan Articles
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The Most Unusual Places to Sleep, According to 12 Travel Experts
Read more...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
Read more...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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8 Purple Places You Need to Add to Your Bucket List
Read more...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
Read more...“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
Read more...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
Read more...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
Read more...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
Read more...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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The Best Theme Parks Halloween Events for 2023
Read more...Theme parks around the world have devised some positively devilish ways to keep the Halloween spirit alive— or in this case, undead—in 2023. 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 2023-2024
Read more...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
Read more...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
Read more...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
Read more...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
Read more...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
Read more...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)
Read more...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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A Nerd’s Guide to Tokyo: 15 of the Best Things to Do
Read more...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
Read more...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
Read more...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
Read more...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
Read more...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
Read more...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
Read more...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 […]