Author: Japanfromwithin
-
Tsukiji and Toyosu Market
Is a Food Tour Worth It, or Should You Go Alone?: Tokyo’s fish market complex, split between the outer Tsukiji market and the newer Toyosu wholesale market, is one of the most popular food experiences for visitors, and one of the most common questions is whether to book a guided food tour or simply explore…
-
Mt. Fuji, Kamakura, and Nikko Day Trips
Guided Tours vs. DIY: Mt. Fuji, Kamakura, and Nikko Day Trips from Tokyo: Mt. Fuji, Kamakura, and Nikko are three of the most popular day trips from Tokyo, and each can be done either independently by train or through a guided tour. Which approach makes more sense varies by destination, and this guide breaks down…
-
Vegetarian and Vegan Travel in Japan
A Quick Guide: Japan isn’t always the easiest destination for vegetarians and vegans, dashi (fish-based stock) shows up in many dishes that otherwise look plant-based, but it’s genuinely manageable with a bit of awareness, and the food scene has improved considerably in recent years. Here’s a quick overview, plus a list of dishes worth seeking…
-
Tokyo Skytree vs. Tokyo Tower
Which Ticket Should You Buy?: Both towers offer sweeping views over Tokyo, and first-time visitors often aren’t sure which one is actually worth the ticket price, or whether it’s worth visiting both. This guide compares them directly so you can decide. Quick Comparison Factor Tokyo Skytree Tokyo Tower Height 634m (world’s tallest tower) 333m Observation…
-
Sushi-Making and Cooking Classes in Japan
A Complete Guide: Learning to make Japanese food from an actual instructor, rather than just eating it, has become one of the most popular hands-on experiences for visitors, and it’s easy to see why: you leave with a skill, not just a photo. This guide covers sushi-making classes, other popular cooking experiences, and a specific,…
-
Tea Ceremony Experience in Japan
A Complete Guide: A traditional tea ceremony (chanoyu or sado) is one of the most accessible ways to experience genuine Japanese culture in a single, focused hour, and it’s become a popular booking for visitors who want something more meaningful than a quick photo stop. This guide covers what to expect and how to choose…
-
Kimono Rental in Japan
A Complete Guide: Renting a kimono for a day is one of the most popular experiences for visitors to Japan, and it’s genuinely easy to arrange, but the range of shops, price points, and included options can be confusing if you’ve never done it before. This guide covers how to choose well and what to…
-
Universal Studios Japan Express Pass
How to Choose the Right Universal Studios Japan Express Pass Universal Studios Japan sells a genuinely confusing range of Express Pass options, and picking the wrong one can mean either overpaying for rides you don’t care about or missing the one attraction you actually wanted to skip the line for. This guide breaks down how…
-
teamLab Tickets
How to Buy teamLab Tickets: A Complete Guide: teamLab’s immersive digital art museums have become one of Japan’s most in-demand attractions, and one of the most common mistakes visitors make is assuming they can simply show up and buy a ticket at the door. This guide covers exactly how ticketing works and how to avoid…
-
Shinkansen vs. Flight
Tokyo to Osaka, Which Should You Choose?: Tokyo and Osaka are both served by shinkansen and domestic flights, and first-time visitors often assume flying must be faster or cheaper by default. In practice, the shinkansen wins for most travelers on this specific route, but the right choice depends on a few factors worth understanding before…
-
When to Book Japanese Hotels for the Best Price
When to Book Japanese Hotels for the Best Price: Choosing the right booking site matters, but timing often matters just as much, sometimes more, when it comes to how much you actually pay for a hotel in Japan. This guide covers when to book, based on season, day of week, and how far in advance,…
-
Best Onsen Towns for a Day Trip from Tokyo
Best Onsen Towns for a Day Trip from Tokyo, Ranked: You don’t need an overnight stay to enjoy a proper hot spring experience near Tokyo. Several onsen towns are close enough for a comfortable day trip, offering day-use bathhouses (higaeri onsen) that let you soak for a few hours without booking a room. Here’s a…