Discovering Japan's Lifestyle, Food, Culture and Places
Kyoto is the spiritual home of Japanese tea culture, but its modern afternoon tea scene is where tradition meets global luxury. To give you the most authentic recommendations, I’ve bypassed the usual tourist traps to find locations currently trending on Japanese blogs and local “Joshi-kai” (girls’ night out) rankings for 2026. From 800-year-old gardens to…
Chocolate & Strawberry Afternoon Tea in Kyoto Elevate your winter aesthetic with the ultimate seasonal indulgence of Chocolate & Strawberry Afternoon Tea in Kyoto. This isn’t just your average tea service; it’s the “Glistening Chocolate and Strawberry Feast”—a sophisticated, “adults-only” twist on the classic flavour pairing, running from January 5 through February 28. For those…
Top 10 Places to Visit in Tokyo for 2026 Tokyo in 2026 is a blend of brand-new infrastructure and timeless tradition. Based on the latest updates from Japanese lifestyle blogs and travel news, here are the top 10 places you should include in your itinerary. 1. teamLab Planets TOKYO (Expanded for 2026) This “body immersive”…
Yokai Street in Kyoto offers an unusual and entertaining escape from the city’s famous temples, shrines, and historical districts. Known locally as Ichijō Yokai Street, this quirky stretch of road is lined with handcrafted monster figures inspired by Japanese folklore. It is one of Kyoto’s most unique attractions and a favourite spot for travellers seeking…
Kyoto is one of Japan’s most-visited cities, renowned for its history, temples, and traditional culture. A perfect way to experience Kyoto’s heritage is through wagashi — traditional Japanese sweets that reflect the seasons, natural beauty, and centuries of craftsmanship. From century-old confectioneries to modern sweet cafés, here are the must try Kyoto sweet shops for…
Best Shopping Streets to Explore in East Tokyo Nestled on the eastern side of Tokyo, Koto Ward is a captivating district where the old meets the new, offering an authentic glimpse into local Tokyo life. Known for its charming shotengai (traditional shopping streets), this area blends retro atmosphere, traditional flavours, and a welcoming community spirit…
Japan Vending Machine Museum: A Quirky Cultural Showcase in Miyagi Looking for something off the beaten path in Japan? Make your way to the Japan Vending Machine Museum in Kurihara, Miyagi Prefecture, a one-of-a-kind outdoor museum that celebrates one of Japan’s most beloved innovations—the vending machine. Launched in March 2025, this open-air attraction showcases the…
Dragon Ball Store in Tokyo Calling all Super Saiyan fans as something huge is coming to Tokyo this fall. Toei Animation has officially announced that the very first permanent, officially licensed Dragon Ball Store in the world will open in fall 2025. That means sometime between September and November 2025, though the exact opening date and…