Tips– category –

Furnishing my Tokyo home: A practical guide to affordable and stylish living

The left-side rule in Japan (hidarigawa tsuko): From samurai swords to smooth traffic flow

House hunting in Japan: What I learned (and what you should know)

Meishi Manners: A Guide to Japanese Business Card Etiquette

Dining in Japan: Two chopstick taboos you must avoid

Emergency preparedness: This rice could save your life

Making green tea? Don’t use boiling water!

Need help with ticket machines at stations? A hidden train staff could be one button press away! 

Japanese hair salon tips: Remember the three P’s for a smooth visit

TELL (Tokyo English Lifeline): A lifeline for mental health in Japan

Can I eat while walking in Japan?

Upscale Hotel restaurants: The ‘secret’ to high-quality, crowd-free dining

My karaoke tips in Japan: It’s all about group fun!

Ordering at ramen restaurants in Japan 101 

Enjoy hanami, respect the space

Parking in Japan: City vs countryside

A simple guide to checking in at hotels in Japan

Bows, claps and silent wishes: How to pray at Japanese shrines

Japan’s year-round wonders: Here’s what to expect in every season

Not sure where to go in Japan? Check out this epic 15-day itinerary

Hot take on the Japan Rail Pass: It’s not *always* the best option

4 reasons to visit Japan in the summer

Sake 101: The only beginner’s guide you’ll need (at least for now!)

Want to explore downtown Yokohama? Start at Sakuragicho Station