All roads lead to Tokyo. Anyone who has traveled in Japan will have heard of the Tokaido — even if they didn’t know its full significance. This “Eastern Sea Road” once connected the imperial court in Kyoto with the Shogun’s capital in Edo (modern-day Tokyo). Today, it’s also the name of the shinkansen line tracing the same route. Less famous but equally historic is the Nakasendo , which linked the same two centers of power but took a different path — winding through Japan’s mountainous interior. While much of the route has been modernized or erased, a few stretches remain beautifully preserved. The most renowned section is the 8-kilometer path between the post towns of Magome-juku and Tsumago-juku , straddling the border between Gifu and Nagano prefectures. In the late 20th century, local residents rallied to preserve these towns, fighting against progress and neglect to restore them to their Edo-period glory. The result is a remarkable revival. Though the inevitable encroach...

  NAHA — Arriving in Naha, Okinawa, you immediately sense something unique—an atmosphere and culture distinctly different from mainland Japan. Okinawa is a vibrant fusion of Chinese, Japanese, and American influences, creating a cultural tapestry all its own. Once the independent Kingdom of Ryukyu, Okinawa was ruled by kings and princesses from the majestic Shuri Castle (now a UNESCO World Heritage site). Statues of protective shiisa lions stand guard, believed to ward off evil spirits and invite good fortune. The Ryukyu monarchy held court here from the 15th century until Japan formally annexed Okinawa in 1879. Today, Okinawa still feels separate from the rest of Japan—not just historically but economically. Despite government investments aimed at turning Okinawa into a tourist paradise, it remains Japan’s poorest prefecture. But life here has its own rewards. Okinawans enjoy stunning beaches, a diet rich in local produce, and the distinction of having one of the longest life...

  Hayao Miyazaki, widely celebrated as Japan’s greatest living animation director, is the creative force behind some of the world’s most beloved animated films. His Studio Ghibli has broken box office records across Japan, captivating audiences with stories full of wonder, imagination, and heart. If you've seen the films, you owe it to yourself to experience the world behind them—at the enchanting Ghibli Museum in Mitaka City, just west of central Tokyo. Nestled in the leafy expanse of Inokashira Park, the Mitaka Forest Ghibli Museum opened its doors in 2001. It’s part art gallery, part theme park, and entirely unlike anything else. Forget what you know about museums—this one is designed with a child’s sense of play and discovery in mind. The building itself is whimsical and maze-like, bursting with hidden nooks, spiral staircases, and even child-sized doors. The architecture evokes the European charm seen in Miyazaki’s films, but once inside, there's no fixed route. You’re e...

  A man came by yesterday and agreed to take our fridge, sofa, and a few other big items—such a relief! I think we’re almost down to the last few things now, which feels great. Overall, everything’s coming together nicely. Kai is still a bit under the weather, unfortunately, so that’s been tough. I’m hoping to sort out the last few big tasks before we leave Japan, but if we don’t manage everything, I’m sure we’ll be back one day. Japan’s definitely left a mark on us. I’ve been feeling a little low the past few days—probably just the stress and emotion of wrapping things up—but I’m really looking forward to the move. I keep picturing our new place in Hong Kong: tennis courts, a gym, swimming pool, and the beach nearby for the kids. Not a bad way to start the next chapter, right? 😄

  This weekend was a hectic one! With our move to Hong Kong just a few weeks away, we needed to sell a lot of our belongings. We managed to clear out a ton of stuff—most of it we gave away for free, which actually felt great. Japan can be really tough when it comes to getting rid of second-hand things. Selling used items isn’t easy, and even throwing them away can be expensive. Honestly, I feel like there's a business opportunity here—maybe a storage space or a community exchange where people (especially gaijin) can pick up or donate unwanted items. We still have some big things left like a sofa and a nearly new fridge, and even after listing them for free , I haven’t had a single offer! 😩 I’m really hoping someone takes them soon—fingers crossed! A Unique Night Out in Tsunashima Despite the packing madness, we had a fantastic night out yesterday. Hiroko, the kids and I, plus our friends Simon and his wife, went to a themed restaurant in Tsunashima. It was such a fun experienc...

  Welcome to Akihabara – or as locals and fans affectionately call it, Akiba . Once a humble district of electronics stores, this buzzing corner of Tokyo has evolved into the epicenter of Japan’s geek culture — a neon-lit playground for anime lovers, gamers, tech fans, and curious wanderers alike. Surprisingly, many travel guides still underplay it, but Akiba is an essential stop on any Tokyo adventure — even if you're not a die-hard fan of manga or mecha. Why? Because this place is an experience. It's where fantasy meets reality in the loudest, brightest, and quirkiest way possible. 🚄 Getting There is Half the Fun Getting to Akihabara is easy. It's located on the JR Yamanote Line (between Ueno and Tokyo Stations) and the Chuo Line from Shinjuku. Once you exit at Electric Town Gate , the madness begins. 🎌 A District Rebooted Originally known for radios, gadgets, and bargain electronics, Akihabara has levelled-up in recent years. Now, it's anime, manga, f...

In Japan, particularly in areas like Akihabara (Tokyo’s famous electronics and otaku district), maid cafés have become a beloved subculture. But what makes the image of Japanese maids so popular? ✨ What Is a Maid Café? A maid café is a themed restaurant where waitresses dress in cute maid uniforms and treat customers like "masters" or "mistresses" in a private home. The experience is playful, polite, and uniquely Japanese. Rather than just serving food, maids perform small shows, play games with customers, and use cute gestures or phrases (like “ moe moe kyun ”) to “enchant” your drink or dessert for fun. 🧁 Why the Popularity? Escapism & Fantasy: In fast-paced urban life, maid cafés offer a fantasy world of attention, politeness, and lighthearted interaction. Moe Culture: The concept of moe (affection toward cute characters) is central to anime and otaku culture, and maid cafés embrace it fully. Unique Experience: For tourists, ma...

  For my sister’s birthday, we decided to visit Tokyo Disney — and it was truly unforgettable! We’ve now been to every Disney park except Hong Kong Disneyland, but since I’ll be living near Hong Kong soon, that one’s definitely next on our list. 😊 How to Get to Tokyo Disney Tokyo Disney Resort is located in Urayasu, Chiba Prefecture, just outside Tokyo. There are a couple of convenient ways to get there: By Train: From Tokyo Station, take the JR Keiyo Line or Musashino Line to Maihama Station. The station is directly connected to the resort, and from there it’s a short walk to either Tokyo Disneyland or DisneySea. By Bus: If you’re coming from Yokohama Station, you can catch a direct bus from the Bus Terminal, Section C, Stop No. 17. The one-way fare is about 1,200 yen. It’s a comfy option if you want to avoid train transfers. Stay for the Entire Day and Don’t Miss the Night Show! I highly recommend spending the whole day there. One thing I hadn’t experienced before was...

  Today was one of those days that tugs at your heart. Kaito hasn’t been feeling well – poor little guy’s been battling some kind of virus, and it’s been making nappy changes a bit of a mission. He cries every time, and as a parent, there’s nothing harder than seeing your child in pain and not being able to make it go away. It’s tough. I guess we all feel a bit helpless when our kids are sick – a kind of sadness that sits in your chest, heavy and still. But despite the hard start to the day, we decided to cheer him up the only way we know how: karaoke . Yes, even with a grumpy tummy, our little rockstar couldn't resist the lights, the music, and the mic. Kaito was head-banging , laughing, and even singing into the mic – full volume, full spirit. It was absolutely hilarious, and for a few moments, we forgot all about the illness and just lived in the joy . I wish I’d captured it on camera – those are the moments that remind you how resilient kids are , and how much music, ev...

  My last day in Japan will be the 6th of July . Just writing that makes my chest tighten a little. It’s hard to believe that my time in this incredible country is coming to an end. Japan has been more than just a place to live – it’s been home . From the quiet moments in local parks with the kids, to the chaotic joy of sushi on bullet trains, and the peaceful awe of temples and mountains, this place has woven itself into the fabric of our lives. But the reality is, the economy has changed , and the opportunities I once had here are no longer available. After much thought, I’ve accepted a job in Hong Kong and will be moving there after a short three-week stay in London . There’s sadness, of course – leaving behind the familiar streets of Yokohama, the comfort of konbini snacks, the sound of cicadas in summer, and the people we’ve grown close to. But there’s also hope. A new chapter awaits. Maybe this next part of the journey will inspire a Hong Kong blog – and I’ll still...

Japan uses the yen (¥) as its official currency. Currently, there are six types of coins and four types of banknotes in circulation — making for a total of ten denominations issued by the Bank of Japan , the nation’s central bank. 💱 Currency Exchange in Japan Unlike some countries, Japan has limited currency exchange options outside of airports, major banks, and hotel front desks. We highly recommend exchanging your money at the airport upon arrival for the best convenience. While credit cards are accepted in many places, some smaller shops, restaurants, and rural areas still prefer cash , so it's smart to carry some yen with you at all times. 🔧 Tip: Visit the “Useful Tools” section on the Japan-i website to access a currency converter for real-time exchange rates. 🪙 Japanese Coins Denomination Design Material Diameter 1 Yen Young tree 100% aluminum 20.0 mm ...

  Japan is world-renowned for its efficient, punctual, and extensive railway system, which serves as the primary mode of transportation in both metropolitan and regional areas. Among the various types of rail transport, railways and subways (known locally as chikatetsu ) are essential in moving millions of people every day, particularly in Japan’s largest cities. Overview of Subway Networks in Major Cities Major metropolitan areas such as Tokyo , Osaka , Sendai , and Fukuoka boast comprehensive subway networks that form the foundation of daily urban commutes. These subways often integrate seamlessly with above-ground railways, allowing for extensive connectivity. Integration with Above-Ground Railways: Many subway systems in Japan use track and train car standards compatible with surface railways. This interoperability means trains can sometimes run continuously from underground subway tunnels to surface tracks without passengers needing to transfer. However, certain lines ...

  Japan is famously known as the land of onsens — natural hot springs that bubble up from deep beneath the earth’s surface, heated by the country’s volcanic activity. These aren’t just warm baths; they’re an integral part of Japanese culture, blending history, health, and relaxation into a unique experience treasured by locals and visitors alike. What Is an Onsen? The term “onsen” literally means “hot spring” in Japanese, and it can refer both to the natural phenomenon of hot water emerging from underground and to the bathing facilities built around these springs. Japan’s location along the Pacific “Ring of Fire” means the country is peppered with over 3,000 hot spring sources — each with distinct mineral content and healing properties. However, not every hot spring can officially be called an onsen. According to Japan’s Hot Spring Law , a water source must meet certain criteria — including temperature and mineral content — to earn the title “onsen.” This law helps protect th...

  Nestled in the heart of the Kii Peninsula, Nara Prefecture is a treasure trove of Japan’s early history and spiritual heritage. Unlike Japan’s coastal regions, Nara is an inland area surrounded by gently rolling mountains and lush forests. Its unique basin geography results in hot, humid summers and cold, crisp winters that linger until March — a climate that shapes the natural beauty and rhythms of the region. Historical and Cultural Significance Nara holds a distinguished place in Japanese history as the country’s first permanent capital, established in 710 AD under the name Heijo-kyo. It remained the imperial seat until 794 , when the capital moved to Heian-kyo (modern-day Kyoto). This short but pivotal period, known as the Nara Period , was a time of profound cultural and religious development influenced by deep exchanges with Asia and Europe via the ancient Silk Road. Because of its status as a capital, Nara’s basin became home to some of Japan’s oldest and most signifi...

To-ji Temple, formally known as Kyo-o-gokoku-ji , stands as one of Kyoto’s most revered and historically rich Buddhist temples. Its iconic five-story pagoda, easily visible from the Shinkansen bullet train platforms at Kyoto Station, is not only a symbol of the temple itself but also a beloved landmark representing centuries of Japanese religious and cultural heritage. Origins and Historical Significance To-ji was established in the year 796 , just two years after Japan’s capital was relocated to Heian-kyo (present-day Kyoto). This period marked the beginning of Japan’s classical era, and To-ji was designated as the southern guardian temple of the city, balancing its sister temple Sai-ji to the north, though Sai-ji no longer exists. In 823 , the temple took on a pivotal spiritual role when it was entrusted to Kukai (also known as Kobo Daishi), the founder of the Shingon sect of Esoteric Buddhism. Kukai was an immensely influential figure, credited with introducing this mystical Bud...

  Tokyo Adventures: Our Family's Whirlwind Day in Shibuya, Harajuku, and Aoyama Tokyo is a city that pulses with an incredible energy, and on our recent family trip, we decided to dive headfirst into a whirlwind day exploring three of its most iconic and distinct districts: Shibuya, Harajuku, and Aoyama. If you're planning a visit, especially with kids in tow, here's a glimpse into what you can expect and how we navigated our packed itinerary! Shibuya: The Iconic Heartbeat of Youth Culture Shibuya is truly the vibrant pulse of Tokyo's youth culture. It's a dazzling kaleidoscope of fashion, entertainment, and endless energy that hits you the moment you step out of the station. What We Loved (and What You'll See): The Famous Shibuya Scramble Crossing: You've seen it on TV, and let me tell you, standing amidst the organized chaos of the Scramble Crossing is an experience in itself! The sheer volume of people moving in perfect synchronicity is mesmeri...

The dazzling lights of Akihabara, a sight unlike anything in the West! There are some places that truly defy expectation, and for me and Jay, Akihabara in Tokyo was one of them. Before our trip, I'd described it to Jay as a sort of "nerd paradise," but even that didn't do it justice. As soon as we stepped out of the station, it was clear this wasn't just another shopping district; it was a sensory explosion that felt light years away from anything we'd ever experienced back home in the West. Often lovingly called " Electric Town ," Akihabara is famed for its sprawling electronics stores , the vibrant pulse of its gaming culture , and as the undisputed heart of Japanese subcultures. For Jay, who’s always been fascinated by tech, it was like stepping into a futuristic playground. For me, it was a fascinating immersion into parts of Japanese culture that are so distinct and wonderfully quirky. Whether you're hunting for a high-tech gadget, a ...