Japanist

Milan Cortina Winter Olympics open at four sites

Featuring tributes to da Vinci and Dante, Puccini and Pausini, Armani and Fellini, pasta and vino, and other iconic tastes of Italian culture — plus Mariah Carey hitting…

The Cheapest Ways To Transfer Money Out of Japan

If you’ve been working in Japan for a while and following all the money-saving advice on this site, by now you’ve probably built up a pile of cash. While you could spend your stash on a gold-laced coc

Hit TV show 'Khemjira' opens a door to pride in Isan

Skiing in Japan: A Beginner’s Guide

Winter sports in Japan may seem intimidating to the newbie, but they don't have to be. Here are the basics of what you need to know about skiing in Japan.

There’s a Sparkling Wine Sakura Cruise in Tokyo

There are lots of different ways to enjoy the cherry blossoms — including basic blue tarps on the grass, spring day trips out of Tokyo, and sparkling-wine-fuelled river cruises. The last one is tempti

Flu Season in Japan: What to Do, When to See a Doctor and Emergency Care Options

A parent’s guide to handling influenza while traveling in Japan, from hotel care to emergency rooms.

Japanese Homeware: 10 Go-To Shops for a More Joyful Abode

Japanese homeware is having a moment. And it’s no wonder — between its breadth of variety and accessible price points, it’s perfect for locals turning tiny rentals into serene sanctuaries and traveler

Cherry Blossom Timeline: From Bud To Bloom

Seeing the cherry blossoms in Japan is a life goal for many travelers, with flights in high demand around the predicted time of full bloom. But how long do you have from the time the first flowers ope

Osaka Area Events for February 2026

Check out our monthly event roundup for Osaka for February 2026.

In Japan, generative AI takes fake election news to new levels

Leaders of a new Japanese political party unveil a logo that features China, a candidate campaigns in freezing weather wearing tank tops and grannies vent in public — or do they?