Discover insider tips, travel guides, and inspiring stories for your next adventure in Japan
The Miyamakirishima azaleas have started blooming across the Kirishima mountain range in Kagoshima. Peak viewing season runs from mid-May through early June at popular spots including Takachiho-kawara, Mt. Karakuni, and Ebino Plateau.
A refreshing summer addition to the bite-sized jelly lineup — featuring Kumamoto watermelon purée balanced with just the right amount of salt, available at supermarket produce sections through the end of August.
A new flagship watch and jewelry store, Laox Ginza Main Store, is opening in Ginza on May 28, 2026, featuring approximately 1,000 luxury timepieces including over 100 Rolex models.
Loft is running its seasonal "RAINY DAYS" campaign, featuring a wide selection of rain gear including high-performance umbrellas, fun design umbrellas, and handy rainy-day accessories — all available at Loft stores nationwide and online.
LUPICIA's popular "Book of Tea" series returns with its 29th edition, offering a curated selection of summer teas in a distinctive book-shaped box, launching at bookstores and LUPICIA locations on June 23, 2026.
Throughout June 2026, the 19th-floor restaurant Bistro Bourgogne at Mercure Yokosuka is serving a limited-edition rainbow cocktail where guests pick their own color syrup – with a non-alcoholic mocktail option available too.
The Mitsui O.S.K. Lines Museum "Funesiru" in Osaka's Nanko area is hosting exclusive after-hours sessions for families staying at Risonare Osaka, featuring ship simulators, a ferry send-off, and craft activities — running through July 11.
The Neko Neko brand is launching a summer dessert collection from June 1, 2026, themed around cats gathering at a café, featuring new items like the Neko Neko Butter Sand Salt Caramel and the chilled Neko Neko Lemon Cake, with package illustrations by cat specialist illustrator Coony.
A former convenience store building in Hakodate's Horai-cho has been transformed into NEXUS HOTEL Hakodate, a whole-building rental accommodation for up to 12 guests, opening for reservations on May 22, 2026.
Starting July 1, 2026 — the anniversary of Asahiyama Zoo's founding — OMO7 Asahikawa by Hoshino Resorts will begin offering the "Asahiyama Zoo Backpack," a customizable backpack rental and sale service designed to make zoo visits more enjoyable for hotel guests.
The rhythm and adventure mobile game Hatsune Miku: Colorful Stage! has kicked off two new limited-time campaigns — the World Link Event "Great Yell for Dreamers!" running until May 29, and the "Vie for the Title Gacha" featuring six new ★4 members with exclusive Live Costumes.
Conrad Osaka in Nakanoshima is launching the "Purple Moment" Açaí & Berry Afternoon Tea at its 40 Sky Bar & Lounge from June 8 to August 16, 2026, celebrating purple as one of 2026's trend colors through açaí, cranberry, blueberry, and other seasonal berries.