New Year in Japan: A Spiritual Time of Family, Food and Fun

new year in japan

For many people, Christmas is the most important holiday of the year. It is a chance to meet family, eat amazing food and give presents to loved ones. In Japan New Year is the biggest holiday, with many people returning home to spend time with their extended families. The festive spirit is reflected throughout Japan, with events held from Hokkaido to Okinawa that anyone can enjoy.

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Tokyo Train Guide: Public Transit in Japan’s Capital

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When some people think of transportation in Tokyo, they imagine the crazy looking maps they’ve seen of the subway lines. With so many stops covering such a large area, it seems like a daunting system. However, Tokyo train and subway lines are among the most extensive and convenient in the world. There a few other transit options as well but you’ll find them less attractive. The buses are difficult to learn and taxis or private cars are expensive. Rental cars can be convenient because there are many options near railway stations, making them easy to find but parking is a bit of a pain – not to mention expensive. Most tourists choose to use the train systems because they are cheap, fast and easy to use.

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Mount Takao: 6 Peak Highlights of an Ancient Mountain

Mount-Takao

Mount Takao, otherwise known as Takaosan, offers a convenient and calm retreat from the hustle of the capital that is only one hour away from central Tokyo. Full of history and tradition, Mount Takao has been a center of religious devotion for centuries-and the climate, perfect all year-round but ideal for summer, offers a cool escape from the heat and humidity. Whether you need to refresh yourself during vacation or just need a break from the exhausting frenzy that is Tokyo, there is something on Mount Takao for you. Keep reading to learn about the wonders that await you on this ancient mountain and discover why it is one of the best day trips from Tokyo.

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How to Travel in Japan on a Discount: Plane, Train and Metro

Japan is a country full of things to see, do and experience. Despite a reputation for being one of the more expensive destinations in Asia, if you plan carefully you can save time and money while traveling. Whether you are looking to visit thousand-year old temples or shop for the perfect souvenir, there is always a deal to be found. Especially for more spontaneous travelers, learning how to travel in Japan on the cheap is not as difficult as it may seem. Just be sure to bring your phone or tablet with you to take advantage of all the opportunities available.

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Buying a Phone in Japan: The Easy Way to Stay Connected

buying a phone in japan

Do you want to stay in Japan for an extended holiday, to study or to work, and you need a way to stay connected to the phone and Internet? Fortunately, Japan’s system of calling and data networks are regarded as being among the best and most reliable in the world-for some. Foreign visitors looking for mid- to-long-term phone and data plans will likely have a difficult time shopping around for several reasons. Keep reading to find out what you’re up against when buying a phone in Japan and discover an easy solution that will save you money and keep you connected throughout your stay.

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Japan Portable WiFi: How to Make Comparison Shopping Easy

Are you comparison shopping for Japan Portable WiFi? Be careful with making your decision on the rental price alone. By understanding the fine print, you can have a better understanding of what you’re getting before you turn on your WiFi in Japan. Keep reading to find out the 4 important things to consider when shopping around. READ MORE

8 Things to Do in Nara: Exploring the Sites of Ancient Japan

You may know that Kyoto was the capital of Japan before Tokyo. But did you know Nara was the first permanent capital of Japan? The Nara Period (710-794) was an age of great cultural and societal growth, and the introduction of Buddhism to Japan. Today this beautiful, peaceful city offers historical temples, shrines, ruins, and gardens, including eight Unesco World Heritage Sites. It’s also home to countless deer, which are held sacred and allowed to roam the city freely. If you will be heading to west Japan this season, your journey awaits with these 8 things to do in Nara! READ MORE

Japan Pocket WiFi Rental: 10 Important Questions to Ask

WiFi in Japan. It can be a bit of a problem especially for foreign visitors. While most of Japan is “connected,” connecting your smartphone, tablet or laptop as soon you step off the airplane isn’t possible for most people. On top of that, public WiFi in Japan is very hard to find and very slow, and country regulations make renting or buying WiFi difficult unless you live in Japan for two years or more! Even with so many difficulties for travelers, you can easily stay connected with a Japan Pocket WiFi rental (also known as a mobile WiFi router, mobile router, mobile hotspot, or MiFi). But with so many companies offering this service, how do you choose the best one for you?
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6 Nagoya Sightseeing Musts: Sakura, Castles, Cars & More

Nagoya Sightseeing

Nagoya might not have the fame of Tokyo or Kyoto, but it is major metropolis in its own right. With these 6 great Nagoya sightseeing options, from exploring a castle to getting a glimpse of cutting-edge car production and more, see how this unsung city of Japan remembers its storied past while keeping pace in the present and looking toward the future. READ MORE

5 Things to do in Okayama: High Art, Castles, Gardens and More

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Once a castle town during the Edo Period, today Okayama is both a convenient stop between Hiroshima and Osaka and a popular tourist destination known for its awesome castle, beautiful traditional Japanese gardens and great art. Your journey awaits with these 5 amazing things to do in Okayama! READ MORE