Japan’s famous green tea, matcha, has captured the hearts and palates of tea enthusiasts around the world. More than just a beverage, this drink is a cultural symbol that embodies the essence of Japanese traditions. From its vibrant green color to its unique preparation methods, it is an art form that requires appreciation and understanding. Matcha is the finely ground powder of green tea leaves, which is grown as well as brewed and prepared in a different way compared to regular green tea. Matcha paired with sweet during tea ceremony, Old Mitsui Family Shimogamo Villa, Kyoto, Japan Photo Cre ..read more

Japan’s culinary landscape is well-known for its variety of choices when it comes to seafood, as the island country provides a geological advantage for access to the freshest fish and other creatures in the ocean. Within their waters lies the heart of Japan’s sushi and sashimi culture,  the jewel of the sea, Maguro, famed for its rich and flavourful flesh. Join us as we provide an introduction to Maguro, exploring its varieties, culinary applications, and the cultural significance it holds in Japanese cuisine. What is Maguro? Maguro, the Japanese term for tuna, encompasses a diverse range ..read more

Planning your visit to Japan’s old capital around May this year? Lucky you! This month is one of the best times to be in Kyoto! Once the wintry winds have completely vanished, cozier weather – but still a long way off from the summer heat – awaits you in May. Aside from the pleasant air, the city has numerous events, attractions and spots deeply rooted in its traditions to offer. From millennium-old festivals and unique meals by – or better to say just above – the river, to street markets full of art and gorgeous handicrafts, here’s a list we prepared for you to best enjoy your days in Kyoto d ..read more

Festival season is year-round in Japan, especially in the bustling Osaka city. Osaka is the largest city in the Kansai region and has been a focal point for Japan’s economy and culture for centuries. Osaka has it all, friendly and outgoing people, local peculiarities and festivities, and flavourful street food. Osaka is a must-visit when planning a trip to Japan, especially in May. Here are a few of the exciting events happening this month in Osaka. A variety of meat dishes available at Niku Fes – Photo Credit: PR Times JP Niku Fest Literally translated to “meat festival,” this event is a me ..read more

The end of April and the start of May is part of Golden Week in Japan. Many Japanese citizens and residents use this time to travel, and as a result, many spots are likely to be crowded, and many local businesses may be closed. However, the rest of May is all about experiencing traditional festivals, participating in summer activities, and generally having tons of fun. If you are planning to be in Tokyo around May, here’s a small glimpse of what you can expect in the city. Watch Samurai warriors in person at the Katsuya Festival – Photo by Ryunosuke Kikuno Katsuya Festival or the Samurai Pro ..read more

While not an “official” Tokyo neighborhood, the Hibiya area is known as a business and theater district and is considered as one of the most important neighborhoods of Japan’s capital city. Part of the Chiyoda Ward, the heart of Tokyo, Hibiya refers to a small area that covers Hibiya Park and a part of Yurakucho. During the period of the Tokugawa shogunate, the area of Hibiya transitioned from a fishing village to an urban area that served as a residential area for the Daimyo, or Japanese feudal lords. Imperial Palace East Gardens | Photo Credit: Geoff Whalan (Flickr) Imperial Palace East Ga ..read more

Explore microbreweries in central Japan’s snow country When discussing beer in Japan, large companies like Asahi, Kirin, and Sapporo may come to mind. However, Japan also has a burgeoning and successful craft beer industry, focused on sourcing local ingredients and limited production. Craft beer is relatively new to Japan, in large part because a Beer Tax Law restricted brewing licenses to high-volume barrel outputs. As Japan’s economy recovered in the 1950s and flourished throughout the post-war period, the demand for beer grew as well, further strengthening the position of the major brewing ..read more

It’s chewy, soft, slightly sticky, and sometimes has sweet fillings. It also pairs deliciously with green tea (matcha included) and is considered one of Japan’s oldest, traditional desserts. Have you guessed it yet? You’re CORRECT! It’s Mochi (もち)! Considered a sub-group of Wagashi in Japan (confections), you may find it being thoroughly enjoyed with green tea. Quite a delicious pairing! Now, have you tried it yet? Why not? Of course, there are many pre-made versions out there for you to reach for. However, I would definitely advocate for you to try the freshly pounded mochi found at the stree ..read more

Meguro is a beautiful district in southwestern Tokyo that has a lot to offer visitors. The special thing about this place is its good atmosphere, for example, you can wander endlessly through the various streets and along the Meguro River. Spring is considered the most beautiful time to visit, as it is then that all the trees along the waterside are full of seasonal blossoms.  The name “Meguro”, meaning “black eyes”, comes from the Fudō statue near the Ryūsenji temple. This sculpture is one of 5, placed at strategic points in what is now Tokyo during the Edo period. Each of these statues ..read more

One of the more popular ways to celebrate the start of the spring season in Japan is to try traditional foods and beverages, as with any festival season,  But one Japanese drink you may not be overly familiar with is  Amazake. So what is Amazake and why is it so delicious and popular?   Actually, Amazake is also known as “sweet sake” or “sweet porridge,” and has been a popular healthy beverage in Japan for as long as the region has recorded history! While one of its nicknames is “sweet sake,” Amazake doesn’t necessarily have to contain any alcoholic content. In fact, the drink m ..read more