Experiences
The Finest Ryokan in Japan: Luxury Onsen Hideaways from Hakone to Kyoto
In this article: Introduction A good ryokan gives you a memorable night. A great one gives you a stay you plan a...
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In-depth guides, local insights, and practical tips from our team on the ground in Japan.
Planning Your Trip
Inside Japan’s Capsule Hotels: Pod Design, Daily Logistics, and Practical Tips
In this article: Introduction A capsule hotel sounds cramped until you spend a night in a good one. The modern versions are...
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Experiences
The Ryokan Guide: Traditional Etiquette, Kaiseki Banquets, and Onsen Rituals
In this article: Introduction A ryokan is not simply a traditional hotel. It is a place built around omotenashi — a form...
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Planning Your Trip
Airbnb in Japan: Understanding Minpaku Laws, House Rules, and Booking Tips
In this article: Introduction Renting an apartment in Japan gives you space, a kitchen, and a neighborhood to belong to for a...
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Planning Your Trip
Haneda Airport to Tokyo: The Fastest Trains, Monorails, and Midnight Transit Options
In this article: Introduction Haneda’s advantage is proximity. Where Narita is an hour-plus haul from the east, Haneda drops you into central...
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Planning Your Trip
Japan Visa Guidelines for US Citizens: Passport Rules, Visa-Free Stays, and Entry Requirements
In this article: Introduction The short answer is the one most travelers are looking for: if you hold a US passport and...
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Experiences
Riding the Hello Kitty Shinkansen: Routes, Kawaii Car Interiors, and Booking Secrets
In this article: Introduction Japan runs a bullet train wrapped in pink ribbons, decorated inside and out with Hello Kitty, and it...
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Planning Your Trip
Narita Airport to Tokyo Access: Comparing Trains, Limousine Buses, and Budget Options
In this article: Introduction The single most useful thing to know before you land at Narita is your hotel’s nearest major station....
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Planning Your Trip
Riding the Shinkansen from Tokyo to Kyoto: Train Types, Luggage Rules, and Mount Fuji Views
In this article: Introduction The train between Tokyo and Kyoto is one of the most-traveled stretches of railway in the world, and...
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