Autumn

Japan’s Autumn Leaves Forecast: How Locals Check When Koyo Is at Its Peak

Japan has autumn leaves forecasts, just like the weather. Here’s how locals check when koyo is at its peak, what the five stages mean, and how to plan.

2026.10.29

Japanese Culture & Etiquette

Shichi-Go-San: Why You’ll See Little Kids in Kimono at Shrines in November

What is Shichi-Go-San? Why little kids in kimono visit shrines in November, what the long chitose-ame candy means, and how travelers can enjoy it respectfully.

2026.10.29

Japanese Culture & Etiquette

Umbrellas in Japan: Clear Umbrellas, Bag Sleeves, and Rainy-Day Manners

Why are umbrellas in Japan so often clear? A local mom explains shop-entrance umbrella sleeves, konbini clear umbrellas, and rainy-day manners for your trip.

2026.10.29

Japanese Culture & Etiquette

Japanese Supermarket Fish: Why It Comes Cut, Cleaned, and Ready to Cook

In Japanese supermarkets, fish often comes filleted, sliced, or grilled. A mom in Japan explains why, how to ask staff to clean fish, and what visitors can buy.

2026.10.29

Japanese Culture & Etiquette

Japanese Convenience Store Seasonal Food: What Autumn and Winter Bring to the Konbini

Chestnut sweets, sweet potato treats, oden, and winter chocolate: what autumn and winter bring to Japanese convenience stores, and how to spot “gentei” labels.

2026.10.28

Japanese Culture & Etiquette

Yaki-Imo: The Sweet Potato Smell That Means Autumn in Japan

Yaki-imo is Japan’s roasted sweet potato, sold warm at supermarkets every autumn. Here’s what it is, where to find it, and how to try it on your trip.

2026.10.28

Japanese Culture & Etiquette

GRAN Tenku Train to Koyasan: Is It Worth It? Seats, Prices & How to Book (2026)

Is the GRAN Tenku train to Koyasan worth it? Compare the 4 cars, fares from Namba, the World Heritage Ticket trap, the timetable, English booking, and temple stay tips from a Japanese mom.

2026.09.24

Travel & Sightseeing

Scenic Trains in Japan in Autumn: 7 Trains Where You Eat With a View

Seven scenic trains in Japan where autumn views come with a meal: which need the meal booked ahead, which sell food on board, and when the leaves turn.

2026.09.17

Travel & Sightseeing

Kyoto Autumn Leaves Without the Crowds: 3 Ryokan Where You Watch the Foliage From Your Room (and the Scenic Trains That Take You There)

Want Kyoto autumn leaves without the crowds? Three ryokan where you watch the foliage from your room, plus the scenic trains that take you there.

2026.09.16

Travel & Sightseeing

8 Kansai Trains Worth Paying Extra For (2026): Comfortable Seats, Great Views, and How to Book Each One

Aoniyoshi, Hinotori, Shimakaze and 5 more scenic trains in Kansai: prices, when tickets go on sale in Japan time, and where to book each one.

2026.09.15

Travel & Sightseeing