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Like a Local
Real, practical travel advice from someone living in Japan. No fluff, no outdated info — just the tips you actually need.
Experience Japan
Beyond the itinerary
Stories, rituals, and quiet corners — the side of Japan you can't book in advance.
Onsen etiquette & tattoo rules
17 MIN · CULTURE
Zazen, tea ceremony & Koyasan
20 MIN · CULTURE
Izakaya nights, kissaten mornings
COMING SOON
Popular Guides
In-depth, practical guides written from real experience living in Japan.
★ Most Read
Reader favorites
How to Register for Visit Japan Web: Complete Step-by-Step Guide (2026)
Everything you need to know about Visit Japan Web — the free online service that speeds up immigration, customs, and tax-free shopping when entering Japan. Step-by-step instructions and common mistakes to avoid.
First Time in Japan: 15 Things You Need to Know Before You Go
Planning your first trip to Japan? Here's everything you need to know — from visa rules to Welcome Suica Mobile, JR Pass realities, and 2026 updates.
What to Wear in Japan in Summer: June, July & August Packing Guide
Japan's summers are hot, humid, and rainy. Here's what to actually pack for June, July, and August — including rainy season gear, heatstroke awareness, and how to survive the humidity.
Plan & Prepare
Get your paperwork, planning, and big decisions sorted before you fly.
Getting Around
Trains, passes, and airport transfers — move efficiently across Japan.
Money & Practical
Connectivity, insurance, tax breaks, and hidden costs — the practical layer.
Best eSIM for Japan 2026: Honest Review & Comparison
Japan Travel Insurance: What You Actually Need (2026)
Japan Tax-Free Shopping 2026: New Refund System & Complete Guide
Japan Tourist Taxes & Hidden Costs 2026: Full Guide
Japan Accommodation Types Explained: Hotels, Ryokan, Capsule Hotels & More
What to Wear by Season
Year-round and season-specific clothing guides — pack the right thing.
What to Wear in Japan: Month-by-Month Clothing Guide
What to Wear in Japan in Spring: March, April & May Packing Guide
What to Wear in Japan in Summer: June, July & August Packing Guide
What to Wear in Japan in Autumn: September, October & November Packing Guide
What to Wear in Japan in Winter: December, January & February Packing Guide
Pick a season
When are you coming?
What to wear, what's blooming, what's happening — by the four Japanese seasons.
Free Travel Tools
Tools we built because you asked. DM us on Instagram with your Japan travel questions — your question could become our next tool.
JR Pass Calculator
Is the Japan Rail Pass worth it?
- Compare all 6 JR Pass options
- Instant savings calculation
- 18 popular shinkansen routes
Japan Visa Calculator
Check your visa status in 10 seconds
- Instant visa check for 90+ countries
- Remaining days countdown & deadline
- Overstay risk alerts
Have a Japan travel question?
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Japan Tips on Instagram
Hidden spots, practical tips, and real Japan moments — shared straight from where we live.
Local Spots
Places we actually go — not the same tourist lists you find everywhere else.
Practical Tips
Quick, actionable advice that saves you time and money on your Japan trip.
Real Photos
Authentic glimpses of daily life and travel in Japan — no stock photos, no filters.