What Not to Do in Japan: Polite Habits That Can Seem Rude

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What Not to Do in Japan: Polite Habits That Can Seem Rude
7 minutes by Adam Douglas
Navigating Japan's unique cultural landscape requires understanding behaviors that might seem polite but can come across as rude. For instance, excessive apologizing or refusing compliments, common in some cultures, may be seen as insincere or awkward. Public displays of affection, even subtle ones, can make others uncomfortable due to Japan's reserved social norms.

First Time In Kyoto
9 minutes by Chris Rowthorn
Visiting Kyoto for the first time involves navigating its rich cultural heritage and unique attractions. This guide highlights essential tips, like exploring iconic temples and shrines, while suggesting efficient itineraries to maximize your experience. It emphasizes practical advice, such as using public transport and understanding local customs, to ensure a smooth trip. Key areas like Gion and Fushimi Inari are recommended for their historical and scenic value.

You Can Now Send Your Bags From Station Lockers to Hotels in Tokyo
2 minutes by Carey Finn
Traveling in Japan with heavy luggage can be challenging due to crowded trains and limited station accessibility. Luggage delivery services like Yamato Transport’s TA-Q-BIN allow travelers to send bags from stations or airports to hotels, often with same-day options. These affordable services, costing around ¥2,500–¥3,000 per bag, reduce physical and mental stress.

The Best Multi-Currency Debit Cards for Japan Travel
8 minutes by Greg Lane
Multi-currency debit cards, like those from Wise and Revolut, are increasingly valuable for travelers in Japan, offering low-cost currency conversion and no international transaction fees. Japan’s shift toward cashless payments, with over 40% of transactions now card-based, makes these cards practical for urban areas, though cash remains essential for smaller establishments. These cards allow users to hold and spend in multiple currencies, such as yen, with better exchange rates than traditional credit cards.

12 Original Castles in Japan
12 minutes by Japan Wonder Travel Blog
Japan’s 12 original castles, built during or before the Edo period (1603–1868), feature historic main keeps that survived wars, demolitions, and natural disasters. These castles, including Himeji, Matsumoto, and Matsue, showcase unique architectural styles and cultural significance. Many were nearly lost during the Meiji era’s Westernization, when the government demolished most castles, reducing thousands to just 12. Visiting these sites offers a glimpse into Japan’s feudal past and samurai history. Each castle, spread across regions like Nagano and Hyogo, draws travelers with its preserved beauty and stories.

Do Japan's trees no longer occupy the sacred space they used to?
9 minutes by Eric Margolis
Trees hold a sacred place in Japanese culture, deeply tied to Shinto beliefs and historical reverence for nature. However, rapid urbanization and development in the 21st century threaten these biodiverse forests, as progress often prioritizes economic growth over environmental preservation. Efforts to protect sacred trees, like those in urban clusters or near shrines, face challenges from declining rural populations and changing societal values.

Warren Buffett, A Japanese Love Call
5 minutes by Peter Tasker
Warren Buffett, the legendary investor, announced his retirement at 94, highlighting his significant investments in five Japanese trading houses: Mitsubishi, Mitsui, Sumitomo, Itochu, and Marubeni. His stakes, initiated in 2020, have yielded strong returns, driven by Japan’s corporate governance reforms and low-interest-rate financing. Buffett praised these companies for their successful operations and expressed optimism about future collaboration, potentially reshaping Asia’s economic landscape.

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UPCOMING EVENTS IN TOKYO

Get ready for an unforgettable weekend in Tokyo as the city bursts into life with a lineup of electrifying events from May 29 to June 1, 2025!

Marvel at the sky exploding with 13,000 fireworks at the Adachi Fireworks Festival, now in May for perfect weather. Sip artisanal brews and savor sweets at the Tokyo Coffee Festival in Aoyama’s vibrant courtyard. Join the mesmerizing Akita Kanto Asakusa Festival, where towering lantern poles light up the streets in a dance for a bountiful harvest.

Wander through glowing waterways at the Adachi Firefly Night, or cheer on thrilling Yokohama Dragon Boat Races with pounding drums and festive performances.

Don’t miss the 60th Fussa Firefly Festival, where 500 fireflies illuminate Hotaru Park, or the breathtaking sea of blue flowers at Hitachi Seaside Park’s Flowering event.

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FEATURED ARTICLE - JAPAN TRAVEL GUIDE

Planning a trip to Japan involves understanding its diverse regions, cultural nuances, and practical travel tips. This guide offers insights into iconic destinations like Tokyo and Kyoto, alongside off-the-beaten-path spots in Tohoku and Kyushu. It covers essential advice on transportation, such as the Japan Rail Pass, and cultural etiquette to enhance the travel experience. Seasonal highlights, from cherry blossoms to autumn foliage, help travelers choose the best times to visit. With a focus on both urban and rural Japan, it inspires exploration of the country’s rich heritage and modern allure.

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