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Popular Anime Locations in Japan
One of the most popular anime ever. In an apocolyptic future, after the destruction of Tokyo by giant monster, the capitol of Japan is moved to Hakone`s Sengokuhara area.The main characters go to school in the Hakone area as they train to become Mech drivers in an effort to thwart another alien…(324 words)
Kintaro-man
Tell me about Japanese Undokai (Sports days)
School Sports Festival for Kids! Anyone can be a hero on this day. It’s also a day for Dads to fight!For some kids, it will be an important day to determine his or her position in the hierarchy of class. The event will also strengthen the unity of each class. For Dads, it will be a day to f…(379 words)
totowatanabe
Riding on the Retro "Kominato Railway Line" - Enjoy the Beautiful Countryside in Any Season!
Sit back, relax, and enjoy the quaint scenery while riding on the Kominato Railway Line. Take in the colorful fields of cherry and rapeseed blossoms in spring, idyllic rice paddies in summer, the deep red maple leaves of autumn, and the snowy, pristine landscapes of winter. For a unique experience,…(264 words)
CHIBA-KUN
Discovering Yokohama by Bike
I make no secret about my love and pride for Yokohama. It is beautiful and unique on numerous levels; the city and its people are in a category unto themselves. With a plethora of things to do for every kind of person – from the old-school neighborhoods of Noge and Yoshidamachi to the state-of-the-…(248 words)
Former Deep Japan Writer
Kinuta Park as one of the best hanami park in Tokyo
My recommendation is Kinuta Park in Setagaya-ku, Tokyo. You can visit there by bus from Futako Tamagawa station of Tokyu Den'en Toshi Line or Yoga Station of Tokyu Den'en Toshi Line, or Seijyo Gakuen Mae station of Odakyu Line. It is very big park with much of greenery atomsphere. The best season …(125 words)
kurukurugurume
Japan’s Best Onsen For a Day Trip
Japanese travellers love to go on a day trip to an onsen. Spend the day with your friends, try some local foods, and relax in the bath. Higaeri onsen 日帰り温泉 is the Japanese word for a one day trip Japanese hot spring. The Japanese TripAdvisor site released its new ranking of Day Spas and On…(541 words)
David
5 Ways to Go Sailing in Shonan
A few years ago, while shopping at our local bakery, my husband and I overheard a conversation between two stranded travelers from Southern France. They had arrived a few days before to Japan and were following the trail of Kelly Slater, one of their surfing heroes, who often competes in our area …(628 words)
Alana
Cute Japanese Cheerleaders part of Japan's semi-professional league, X League
I actually used to cheer for the semi-pro X league back in the day. This was when it was kind of a group of companies that sponsored teams. Now, the sponsors are still there but the whole thing is much better organized (called the X League) and the games and competition are really exciting. From wh…(145 words)
5@example.com
The Decorated Trucks of Japan
I had a lot of fun filming an episode about the decorated trucks of Japan for the Travel Channel. Below is the story I wrote about the experience.The rumble of powerful engines, air perfumed by diesel exhaust, bright lights flashing in the night: all ambrosia to the senses of the owners of the …(851 words)
Joe Peters
Let's Go Swimming in Yokohama!
In my last post, I talked about swimming at Yokohama's International Swimming Pool: http://www.deepjapan.org/a/4437But, of course, there are plenty of other pools in Yokohama where you can go to beat the heat of summer. In fact, here's a link to a list of major indoor pools: http://www.city.yok…(83 words)
Former Deep Japan Writer
Create the most unforgettable memories: Try aromatic unagi and experience wearing kimono in Narita!
Wearing "kimono" (Japanese traditional dress) or "yukata" (casual summer kimono) is definitely a must-do in Japan! Recently, I had a chance to have a half-day kimono experience in Narita City, so I’d like to share my experience with you.Get off from JR or Keisei Line Narita Station and walk for…(508 words)
CHIBA-KUN
Anime shows also have Giant Monsters!
Giant monsters attacking cities is a pretty common science fiction or horror scenario in Japanese media. The reason being possibly that since people live pretty close together, the idea of a giant monster coming and wreaking havoc is particularly scary and destructive.I know a certain Anime sho…(128 words)
KurtisW
Rakugo
Rakugo is a form of Japanese traditional entertainment that is humorous, a lightly comedic storytelling. Rakugo is always performed by a single person, who plays all of the parts in a story. There are many notable features distinguishing Rakugo. It is performed with the storyteller sitting in the…(315 words)
mikekato
Gachapon
Gachapon, coin operated vending machines, are ubiquitous in Japan.Unlike their downscale cousins in the US, which usually dispense stale candy or cheap plastic gadgets, gachapon figurines can be collectors items.The variety is endless, and changes constantly based on trends in the entertainme…(178 words)
Chiara
Chindon'ya
The Chindon'ya are a type of Japanese marching band that wear elaborate costumes and perform in a variety of festivals, shop openings, and other promotions or special events. Originating in Osaka during the late Edo period, most of the remaining Chindon'ya are based in Tokyo. Chindon'ya usual…(511 words)
mikekato
Tamiya Playmodel Factory - and race track
While I thought it would be just an interesting shopping experience, the Tamiya Playmodel Factory turned into a 3 hour stop with my 8 year old son.Three floors total. Bottom two are dedicated to models, radio-controled cars, and race cars kits for the second floor circuit track. Models are a …(345 words)
JiyugaokaPaul
Cheapest Places for Karaoke in Japan
Karatetsu is my go-to karaoke place. The reasons are clear. 1. Cheap2. Carries one of the most number of songs, which is perfect for someone like me who enjoys singing songs in English.The prices are pretty mind-blowing in comparison to places like Shidax or Big Echo that charge 650yen/30mi…(338 words)
GenS
Anime Come To Life
Japanese pop culture, particularly anime (short for “animation”) has become one of the country’s iconic exports in recent years and many people globally have become acquainted not only with internationally famous anime as Pokemon, but also more eclectic characters as well. An entire subgenre has…(1100 words)
jdlawrence
Ashiyu - Onsen For Your Feet
Have you tried onsen in Japan? There are many famous hot spring areas in the country and most of them offer both full baths and ashiyu. Ashiyu （足湯）is an onsen foot bath. Try it. A warm foot bath is the perfect way to rest, especially after a long walk. Kinugawa Onsen near NikkoIn many o…(524 words)
David
Today I am in Sakuragicho, Yokohama
I often write about Yokohama. It's difficult for me not to. I live here. I work here. And during my time as Creative Director for the Yokohama Seasider Magazine, it was my job (and passion) to learn and discover - and then write about - as much as I could about Yokohama.I love this city and am …(364 words)
Former Deep Japan Writer
Japan's Hidden Onsen
Japan’s Hidden Hot SpringsYokoso! Welcome!Japan is a country consisting of 4 main islands; Honshu (main Island), to the North is Hokkaido (Northern Sea Island), Shikoku (Fourth Country) and Kyushu (Nine Provinces). There are hundreds of smaller islands that lie in Japan’s territories. T…(542 words)
scramjetmach9
Hanayashiki - Asakusa's Beloved Tiny Amusement Park
Asakusa is an old part of Tokyo. In a city that changes quickly and often, it is not surprising to read about the many changes that have happened in this area. Asakusa was a major entertainment district filled with theaters and restaurants. While many of the theaters disappeared, the small amusemen…(571 words)
David
Denim Kimonos--Only in Kurashiki!
Did you know that the birthplace of Japanese denim is Kurashiki, in Okayama Prefecture?Kurashiki is best known for the great shopping and sightseeing opportunities in the Bikan-chiku Historical district. This area is well known throughout Japan for having refurbished original 'kura' warehouses …(655 words)
Andrea Miyata
Quick and easy things to do in Yokohama #14
Summer time means trips to the beaches and swims in the ocean, but the Yokohama International Swimming Pool is open all year long. It's also one of the the biggest and most beautiful pool facilities in Japan, and is an internationally approved 50-meter swimming and diving pool. The Yokohama Int…(152 words)
Former Deep Japan Writer
Sumida Park Cherry Blossom Festival
A serendipitous location that is often overlooked, Sumida Park is located in the heart of the old shitamachi (downtown) tourist area of Tokyo. Most visitors miss this historic landmark. It is a perfect place for a break from the city, and only a short walk from the famous Sensoji temple complex.…(837 words)
Taito-kun
Family-Friendly Zushi Beach in Japan
I recommend Zushi beach in Kanagawa prefecture. It only takes about 1 hour from Tokyo on the Yokosuka line and I was actually there yesterday! Although the transparency of the water can't really be compared to beaches you would find in Okinawa or Hawaii, the water is swimmable. Also, unlike most of…(144 words)
GenS
Japanese Children Celebrate Sports Day
The “undokai” is an annual sports day held at every Japanese elementary and middle school in either May or September. Although schools in other countries also have sports days, the many of the “undoukai” activities are unique to Japan and the event is an important part of Japanese culture. During a…(136 words)
GenS
Super Hero Action Show
The "Super Sentai" series has been one of Japan's longest action TV programs for children. It started in the early 70s, with new characters featured every year.Since 1971, the Tokyo Dome City (previously Korakuen) has hosted a Hero Action Show, that features the latest Super Sentai Action hero…(133 words)
mikekato
Karaoke Box in Japan – Reasonable amusements where foreigners can enjoy!
Japanese people are embarrassed to sing in front of strangers in general. Therefore, they prefer to go to Karaoke box with their friends and have fun singing popular songs in their private space. Even foreigners can casually enjoy Karaoke box without problem!After you check in at reception coun…(321 words)
SEIJAN
Why Men Look Handsome in Kimonos in Japan?
I've noticed more men wearing Kimono on weekends recently. The obi belt tied just above the hips, masculine shoulders emphasized by a narrower line going down the body, a deep blue color. Try walking in back of one of these gents. Watch the way the geta sandals click on the stone walkway and how th…(251 words)
5@example.com
Running Long Distance in Tokyo Summer
Summer weather in Japan can challenge runners with staying hydrated. If you run for distance and have signed up for a race in the fall, then you need to train through the hot summer months, while still logging long kilometers. In August, the weather can get up to mid-30s with a great deal of humidi…(651 words)
Sweet42.195
Japanese Summer Beach House Culture
Before I lived in Yokohama, I lived in Zushi. One of things I looked forward to each year was summer, when Zushi Beach, one of the finest beaches in the country, would instantly become alive with people from all over Japan arriving to soak up the sun. To provide services for all these people, beach…(405 words)
Former Deep Japan Writer
How to spend Halloween in Japan
When I first arrived in Japan in 2001, Halloween was practically unheard of. The only Halloween events to speak of were bacchanalian parties held by foreigners, many inebriated past the point of public decency. The noise, the mess, and the unruly revelry became so bad, in fact, that it eventually b…(495 words)
Former Deep Japan Writer
Love J-pop? Watch Music Station!
Every Friday at 8pm, I look forward to watching Music Station, an hour long show dedicated to J-pop. Here, about five to ten popular Japanese singers perform their new songs and new J-pop artists are introduced. Also, singers and groups from overseas, such as the US, Canada, Korea and Britain, have…(142 words)
RieS
Best Ways to Enjoy Minatomirai, Yokohama
Question: What are the best ways to enjoy a day in Minatomirai in Yokohama?For all the goings on in Yokohama, pick up a copy of the Yokohama Seasider Magazine or visit:http://www.yokohamaseasider.com/ fFor information specific to Minatomirai, check out: http://www.minatomirai21.com/eng/…(61 words)
Former Deep Japan Writer
Tsukishima Mizukake Matsuri
Tsukishima is one of the small island in Tokyo Bay. It is famous for its monjayaki street today. Tsukishima in English mean the Island of the Moon, which is quite poetic, but it used to be a place for fishing in the past (it must be why it is called so as fishing occurs early morning, before th…(179 words)
Claire
Proficient in a Japanese Martial Art?
If you are planning to visit Japan, are a martial artist and would like to try something off the usual tourist itinerary, or already living here and looking for something different and unique to do, there is an informative, fun and exciting way to spend a weekend tucked away in the south of Chiba p…(629 words)
GoodPeople
Running Around in Yokohama
I often write reviews and articles about restaurants in Yokohama, but what do I with the all the calories that come with the job? Well, like many of the 3.7 million people who live here, I run. And there really is no better city in Japan to do just that.Yokohama is chock-full of running routes,…(230 words)
Former Deep Japan Writer
Dont Forget to Manga-fy Yourself at Purikura! (part 2)
What would it be like to be a fairy princess? What would it be like to have that little pointy chin, big eyes and pouty mouth? Ever since my PuriKura “print club” experience in Kumamoto, I now know exactly how, at least, I would look.Found in almost any game center or resort (ski, hot spring, e…(607 words)
5@example.com
The Best Views of Fuji
Kintoki Mountain is a hiking route starting in Hakone or Ashigara. The trail is steeped in legend and named after the legendary Japanese children`s tale, Kintaro. Kintaro is the story of a boy raised in the mountains with animals as friends. There are tales of him wrestling bears, running with deer…(261 words)
Kintaro-man