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: osaka · Show all
118 articles
Tenjin Festival 2026: Dates, Times and What to Expect in Osaka
Tenjin Festival 2026 runs 24-25 July in Osaka's Kita area. Dates, transport, crowd tips and what each day involves for travellers.
Private Compartments Coming to Tokaido and Sanyo Shinkansen from October 2026
JR Central and JR West will introduce Supreme Class private lockable compartments on Tokaido and Sanyo Shinkansen trains from October 2026. Online booking only.
100-Yen Shops in Japan: What Daiso, Seria and Can★Do Actually Sell
Complete guide to Daiso, Seria and Can★Do: Japan's brilliant 100-yen shops. What they actually sell, what to buy, and how to shop like a local.
Don Quijote Japan: Your Complete Guide to the Ultimate Discount Store
Complete guide to Don Quijote (Donki) discount stores in Japan. Best locations, what to buy, tax-free shopping, and insider tips for budget travellers.
Bringing Goods Back to the UK from Japan: Limits and What to Declare
UK customs rules for Japan travellers: allowances, prohibited items, what to declare, and duty rates. Shop confidently and clear customs smoothly.
Second-Hand Clothing in Japan: Your Guide to Thrift and Vintage Shopping
Discover Japan's exceptional second-hand clothing scene. From Tokyo's Shimokitazawa to Osaka's Amerikamura, find vintage treasures, designer resale, and pristine pre-owned fashion at brilliant prices.
Japanese Department Store Floors: A Complete Guide to What Each Level Sells
Navigate Japanese department stores with confidence. Learn what each floor sells, from depachika food halls to rooftop spaces, plus tips for tax-free shopping.
Japanese Cosmetics and Skincare: What to Buy and Where
Complete guide to buying Japanese cosmetics and skincare. What products to buy, exact prices, and where to shop in Tokyo and Osaka for the best deals.
Noh, Bunraku and Kyogen: Japan's Other Theatre Forms Explained
Discover Noh, Bunraku and Kyogen theatre in Japan. Where to watch, what to expect, and why these ancient art forms matter for modern travellers.
Japan's UNESCO World Heritage Sites: A Practical Visitor's Guide
Practical guide to visiting Japan's 25 UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Real transport details, admission fees, seasonal tips, and itinerary suggestions for temples, castles, mountains, and islands.
Must-Visit Japan for Nintendo Fans: The Stores and What to Buy
Your complete guide to Nintendo stores in Tokyo and Osaka, featuring exclusive merchandise, shopping strategies, and what to buy for every budget.
Must-Visit Japan for Pokémon Fans: Stores, Events and Exclusives
Complete guide to Pokémon Centres, cafés, events and exclusive merchandise in Japan. Essential locations in Tokyo, Osaka, plus shopping tips for fans.