Japan, explained
Practical guides, cultural notes, and travel news from people who spend a lot of time in Japan. Read what you need, plan what you love.
Filtered by city: kanazawa · Show all
16 articles
Samurai Towns: Kanazawa, Aizu-Wakamatsu and Kochi Compared
Compare Kanazawa, Aizu-Wakamatsu and Kochi - three authentic samurai towns. Refined aesthetics, unwavering loyalty, or rebellious spirit? Find your perfect samurai experience.
Samurai History in Japan: Where to Actually See It Today
Visit actual samurai castles, districts, and museums across Japan. From Tokyo's hands-on exhibits to Kanazawa's preserved streets, where to see authentic samurai history.
Spirited Away: The Real Places Behind Studio Ghibli's Masterpiece
Discover the real Japanese locations that inspired Spirited Away, from Dōgo Onsen's historic bathhouse to traditional towns echoing the film's atmosphere.
Japanese Sweets (Wagashi) by Region: What to Look For Where
Discover Japan's finest regional wagashi sweets, from Kyoto's artistic namagashi to Hokkaido's butter confections. Your complete guide to what to seek where.
The Sea of Japan Coast: Kanazawa, Niigata and Tottori Guide
Explore Japan's Sea of Japan coast through Kanazawa, Niigata and Tottori. Samurai districts, sand dunes, sake breweries and exceptional seafood away from tourist crowds.
Kenroku-en Garden: What Makes It One of Japan's Three Great Gardens
Discover why Kenroku-en ranks among Japan's three great gardens. Seasonal highlights, practical tips, and the six attributes that define this Kanazawa masterpiece.
Three Weeks in Japan: Extended Itineraries Beyond the Golden Route
Planning three weeks in Japan? Discover extended itineraries from Tokyo to Kyushu, alpine routes to Hokkaido, and island-hopping adventures with practical tips.
Essential Japanese Phrases for Shops and Restaurants: Your Quick Reference Guide
Master essential Japanese phrases for shops and restaurants. From ordering food to paying bills, learn the exact words you'll hear and need daily across Japan.
Inter-City Routing in Japan: The Most Common Trip Combinations
Master Japan's inter-city routing with proven combinations between Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, Hiroshima and beyond. Practical strategies for logical routes and passes.
Renting a Car in Japan: When It Makes Sense (and When It Doesn't)
Should you rent a car in Japan? Discover when hiring makes sense for Hokkaido, rural areas and remote regions, and when trains are faster and cheaper.
What's New in Japan: Latest Destinations, Openings and Travel Changes
What's changed in Japan for 2026 travellers: the Expo 2025 legacy, new openings, updated entry processes, overtourism measures, and what's coming in 2027.
Japan Festival Calendar: Month-by-Month Guide to Matsuri Magic
Plan your Japan trip around spectacular festivals. Month-by-month guide to matsuri, from Kyoto's Gion Matsuri to Sapporo Snow Festival, with dates and tips.