Tax-Free

Which Hada Labo to Buy? Japan vs US Version, Gokujyun vs Premium (Let’s Find Yours)

Facing a Japanese drugstore shelf full of Hada Labo? Here’s how to tell Gokujyun, Premium and Shirojyun apart, how Hada Labo Tokyo differs, and which to buy.

2026.10.30

Beauty & Skincare

Japanese Teaware for Beginners: Which Kyusu to Buy First (and What You Can Skip)

New to Japanese tea? Start with one kyusu and the mug you have. Glass or clay, what each tea tool does, what to skip, and how to pack teaware home safely.

2026.10.27

Home & Zakka

Where to Buy Stationery in Japan: Itoya vs Loft vs Hands (and Which One to Pick)

Loft, Hands or Itoya? A Japanese mom’s guide to stationery stores in Tokyo, Osaka and Kyoto, plus the November 2026 tax-free change and bottled ink rules.

2026.10.21

Travel & Sightseeing

10 Small Things That Make Japan Travel Easier: What to Pack vs. What to Buy at Daiso (From a Japanese Mom)

A Japanese mom’s pack-5, buy-5 list for Japan: the folding bag, coin purse and hand towel to bring from home, and the ¥110 basics to grab at Daiso.

2026.10.19

Travel & Sightseeing

Japan Tax-Free Shopping Guide 2026: Rules, Passport, and the New November Refund System

Learn Japan's tax-free shopping rules for 2026, including the ¥5,000 minimum, passport requirements, and the new refund system from November 1.

2026.07.23

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