Hi, I’m YUU!
I’m a Japanese mom of two, living in Japan.
Through A Little Japan, I share practical Japan travel guidance and honest product recommendations — grounded in everyday life here, hands-on testing when I’ve used the product, and official sources when rules, prices, or schedules matter.
My goal is simple: to help you plan a smoother trip, avoid unnecessary confusion, and discover the Japanese products and experiences that are genuinely worth your time and suitcase space.
Why I started this blog
Japan is full of amazing products: drugstore skincare that costs a fraction of luxury brands, clever gadgets that solve problems you didn’t know you had, and snacks you’ll wish you’d bought more of.
But when you only have a week in Japan (and limited suitcase space!), it’s hard to know what’s really worth buying. Online lists often just copy each other, written by people who have never opened the package.
That’s where I come in. I live here, I shop here, and I write from my real everyday life in Japan. When I’ve actually used something myself, I’ll tell you — including when it turned out to be disappointing. And when I’m recommending something based on its reputation here in Japan rather than my own kitchen, I’ll be upfront about that, too.
What you’ll find here
- Travel & Sightseeing — practical help with trains, airports, passes, budgets and family travel
- Culture & Etiquette — the small customs and unwritten rules that make Japan feel easier
- Beauty & Skincare — honest Japanese product comparisons and drugstore shopping advice
- Seasonal Essentials — what to wear, what to bring and how to stay comfortable in Japan’s weather
- Japanese Products — useful finds from Japanese homes, kitchens and drugstores
My promise to you
- I’m honest about what I’ve used. When a recommendation comes from my own experience, I’ll say so — and when it doesn’t, I’ll tell you that too.
- I tell you the downsides too. No product is perfect, and you deserve to know before you buy.
- I only recommend things worth your suitcase space.
Some links on this site are affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you buy through them — at no extra cost to you. This helps keep the blog running, and it never changes what I recommend.
Thanks for stopping by, and I hope A Little Japan helps you find your next favorite thing!
— YUU