A Little Japan

Suica vs Pasmo for Tourists (2026): Mobile App or Physical Card?

Suica or PASMO—which is better for tourists in 2026? Compare Welcome Suica Mobile, TOURIST PASMO and physical cards, including costs, validity, kids' cards and top-up tips.

2026.07.22

Travel & Sightseeing

Japan Travel in 2026: Price Hikes, New Rules & What You Need to Know

An up-to-date local guide to Japan’s 2026 travel changes: JR Pass prices, higher taxes, tax-free refunds, Suica tips, Mt. Fuji rules, and more.

2026.07.21

Travel & Sightseeing

Kansai Airport to Namba: Is the Rapi:t Worth It? (2026 Fare Guide)

The Rapi:t is the deep-blue, robot-faced express from Kansai Airport to Nankai Namba — 34 minutes, real 2026 fares from 1,410 yen, and exactly how to buy your ticket.

2026.07.19

Travel & Sightseeing

Universal Studios Japan Express Pass: Worth It? Which One to Buy? (2026 Guide)

Is the USJ Express Pass worth it? A Japanese mom who visits twice a year explains which pass to buy, typical 2026 prices in yen, and how to enjoy the park without one.

2026.07.19

Travel & Sightseeing

Is the JR Pass Worth It in 2026? A Japanese Mom Does the Math (+ Seat Tips)

The JR Pass now costs ¥50,000, so is it still worth buying? A Japanese mom does the real math by route — plus Shinkansen seat and luggage tips for first-timers.

2026.07.18

Travel & Sightseeing

Japanese Onsen Guide for First-Timers: Etiquette, What to Bring, and How to Bathe Like a Local

First Japanese onsen? A Japanese mom explains the etiquette, what to bring, how to bathe step by step, tattoo rules, and tips for visiting with kids.

2026.07.17

Travel & Sightseeing

Japanese Cooling Body Sheets: Biore vs. Gatsby, Tested in the Summer Heat (From a Japanese Mom)

Which Japanese cooling body sheets actually work? A mom in Japan tested Biore and Gatsby in the real summer heat — coldness, staying power, scents, and prices compared.

2026.07.15

Seasonal Essentials

Sumimasen: The Magic Word That Solves Almost Everything in Japan (From a Japanese Mom)

What does sumimasen mean? A Japanese mom explains how travelers can use this versatile word to say "excuse me," "sorry," and sometimes "thank you" in Japan.

2026.07.13

Japanese Culture & Etiquette

Japanese Restaurant Etiquette: What to Know from Entering to Paying (From a Japanese Mom)

A friendly guide to Japanese restaurant etiquette for first-time visitors: how to be seated, order, use chopsticks, pay, and why no tipping is needed.

2026.07.12

Japanese Culture & Etiquette

Why Are There So Few Trash Cans in Japan? 5 Things Locals Do (From a Japanese Mom)

Why are trash cans hard to find in Japan? A Japanese mom explains where to dispose of waste and five simple habits locals use while out.

2026.07.11

Japanese Culture & Etiquette