The Japanese traditionally eat rice for breakfast. They serve it with some grilled fish, Miso soup, egg (either raw on top of the rice or fried as a Japanese-style omelet called Tamago Maki), and of course Natto (the smelly sticky stuff made from fermented soybeans). But in Nagoya everything is different. The typical breakfast in Nagoya isn’t rice at all, but something we Westerners like to have for breakfast: Toast....

There is a lot of misunderstanding as to what exactly a Geisha is, and although the image of Geisha may have been able to shed a lot of these misconceptions over time, many may still associate Geisha with the idea of “comfort women”, which they most certainly are not. We’d like to guide you through some of the history of the Geisha and banish some of those myths to where...

There are 2 sides to Gamagori, a coastal city 40 minutes away from Nagoya. On the one hand, it’s a popular seaside and hot spring resort where people come to relax and enjoy the smell of ocean air, the water scenery, rocky beaches, nature hikes, and fresh seafood. On the other hand, it also has a crazy and popular theme park drawing visitors from all over to ride roller coasters,...

The Japanese have a peculiar relationship to religion. Most people identify as both Shinto and Buddhist, or nothing at all. Still following rituals of either, depending on the occasion. Weddings are often Shinto, burials almost exclusively Buddhist. They also like to sprinkle in Christian holidays for good measure. Because of this very inclusive mindset, anyone is welcome at shrines and temples in Japan and no one is barred from praying...

Having an English-speaking guide in a country where you don’t speak the language can be invaluable. That’s where volunteer guide organizations come in. Volunteer guide organizations help residents connect with travelers to share their knowledge and love for their hometown. These guides are primarily amateurs, many of whom are retired, passionately offering their services for free while struggling to overcome the language barrier. Here is a list of places around...