Discover insider tips, travel guides, and inspiring stories for your next adventure in Japan
Starting March 1, 2026, Dusitthani Kyoto offers an innovative wellness program called "Chakō," a shisha-inspired experience using only organic tea leaves from the hotel's own Wazuka estate, with optional sake and whisky pairings.
Fujiya's beloved Look chocolate line gets a premium upgrade with the new Awayuki pouch, featuring a rare white strawberry variety from Nara Prefecture in a three-layer chocolate construction.
Satsuma Kinzan-gura announces the release of "Fukukinzan," a new authentic sweet potato shochu inspired by Hokusai's The Great Wave off Kanagawa, blending white and rare golden koji for a mellow, aromatic flavor, presented in a striking indigo and gold leaf bottle design.
A new permanent tabi-shibai theater, Gion Gofukuza, is set to open at Gion Kaikan in Kyoto's Higashiyama ward in May 2026 — the first permanent venue of its kind in Kyoto.
Poplar Publishing has released a new coloring book with a black background aimed at children ages 3 to 6, offering a special coloring experience where bright colors stand out vividly and going outside the lines only adds to the charm.
To mark the 50th anniversaries of Sena Keiko's beloved picture books Gracia Meets a Ghost and Ghost Tempura, Poplar Publishing has released a special gift box set featuring palm-sized mini editions of both books along with a ghost stuffed toy complete with a removable tempura batter costume.
The Japanese total care brand hada to kokoro has introduced the "Kakezan Series," a new skincare line that pairs two synergistic active ingredients per product to help users target specific skin concerns more effectively.
KOHARU, a member of the seven-member girls group HANA, takes the stage in THE FIRST TAKE's new segment "HIGHLIGHT" with a breathtaking performance titled "Still Afraid, Still Alive."
Hanaori Hakone Ashinoko is launching a renewed spring dinner buffet for day visitors starting March 9, 2026, plus new strawberry and peach parfaits at the lobby lounge available through May 31.
The second half of Honkai Star Rail Ver. 4.0 began on March 3, 2026, featuring the new limited 5-star character Sparxie (Fire / Elation) alongside returning character banners and upcoming in-game events running through late March.
From April 1 to June 30, 2026, Hotel Granvia Kyoto's 2nd-floor cafe restaurant "Le Temps" will offer an all-you-can-eat dinner buffet showcasing the flavors of spring and Kyoto.
Hotel New Otani Osaka is running a special spring stay plan with guaranteed cherry blossom views of Osaka Castle Park, available for just 5 rooms per day from March 20 to April 19, 2026.