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...Read More

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...Read More

Nagoya is known as one of largest industrial cities in the country, but it is also a very green city. Its streets are lined with trees and shrubs and there are parks of various sizes dotted about town whether it’s Nagoya’s impressive Meijo Park or a tiny little patch of grass acting as a playground...Read More

Okazaki is a peaceful city with a rich history that can be seen in its castle, temples, and historical sites. It is a city that prides itself as being the birthplace of one of the most famous men in Japanese history Tokugawa Ieyasu, who was a major player in the unification of Japan and the...Read More

At first glance, Ankake Spaghetti may look like the Italian pasta that Mama used to make, but it’s definitely not like what you’re used to. Give this to an Italian chef and he would probably be horrified that someone is actually calling this «pasta!» Though this style of pasta is definitely unconventional, that doesn’t make...Read More

Japanese kites are considered some of the most spectacular in the world, appreciated both for their aesthetic value, and as traditional toys. They have many different styles and types of kites, and each region of Japan has its own distinctive shape. Here we have some cicada kites. Thankfully they don’t make the same noise! In...Read More

Every February, a rather unique festival is held in the Owari Okunitama Jinja Shrine in Inazawa that would make even your grandmother blush! This festival is known as the Konomiya Hadaka Matsuri or Konomiya Naked Festival, and as the name suggests, men will do the Full Monty as they brave the cold and treat the...Read More

Chicken wings. Who doesn’t love them? Considering they’re now everywhere in Japan, you might think we are lying if we told you that, in the past, people threw chicken wings away because no one knew how to prepare them. Can you believe it? What a waste! Nowadays, you can find Tebasaki pretty much anywhere in...Read More

Nagoya Port is one of the largest ports in Japan and is located in the south part of the city of Nagoya. It holds first place in volume handled between all the ports in Japan with 196 million tons of cargo and is the country’s largest car exporter. Along with its impressive trade success, it...Read More

While Japan is attractive to tourists due to its rich culture, history, and tradition, did you know the country boasts several theme parks?  Aichi prefecture is host to a few of these amazing attractions. One theme park that recently opened in 2017, is LEGOLAND® Japan Resort. LEGOLAND®, which is aimed at families with children between...Read More