Blogs

Autumn in Japan is more than red leaves and crisp air—it’s also one of the best times to soak in an onsen (hot spring). As September and October bring cooler evenings, slipping into a steaming outdoor bath feels extra magical, especially when surrounded by mountains just starting to show their autumn colors. Unlike the peak …

Japan Onsen Escapes 2025: Magical Hot Springs for Early Autumn Read More »

Autumn food in Japan is a celebration of the seasons, enjoyed not only in the scenery but also at the table. Autumn is perhaps the most delicious of them all—a time when markets and restaurants brim with earthy flavors, warm sweets, and comforting dishes that signal the year’s harvest. If you’re visiting Japan in September …

Delicious Autumn Food in Japan 2025: Seasonal Dishes, Sweets & Market Delights Read More »

Tsukimi in Japan is one of the most serene and poetic traditions in the cultural calendar. Literally meaning “moon-viewing” (月見), it is celebrated each autumn as people pause to admire the harvest moon and enjoy foods and customs tied to gratitude and renewal. Unlike the lively fireworks festivals of summer, Tsukimi is quiet, reflective, and …

Tsukimi in Japan 2025: Timeless Moon-Viewing Traditions and Irresistible Autumn Flavors Read More »

With summer crowds fading and autumn’s beauty just beginning to show, Japan in September is the perfect in-between season. Travelers who choose September are often rewarded with quieter sights, better value, and a relaxed pace that’s hard to find in peak months although September is one of Japan’s most overlooked travel months. Why Visit Japan …

Japan in September 2025: Cool Weather, Fewer Crowds & Peaceful Travel Read More »

Hiking spots in Japan truly shine in September, one of the country’s best-kept secrets for outdoor lovers. The sweltering humidity of summer begins to ease, yet the vibrant crowds of autumn leaf-viewers have not yet arrived. For hikers, this sweet spot offers crisp air, quieter trails, and stunning mountain scenery that feels almost untouched. Whether …

4 Best Hiking Spots in Japan for September: Cool Weather, Quiet Trails Read More »

A cruise stopover in Japan can be both exciting and overwhelming. Cruise travelers know the bittersweet feeling of docking in a fascinating destination but only having a single day—or sometimes just a few hours—to explore. With vibrant port cities, world-class cultural sites, and stunning natural scenery, it can feel impossible to fit everything in before …

Amazing Cruise Stopovers in Japan: How to See the Best in Just 1 Day Read More »

You don’t have to wait for peak fall foliage season—some mountain towns and highland escapes are already showing the first autumn leaves. While Japan’s famous fall foliage season typically peaks in October and November, some highland areas start turning vibrant red and gold much earlier. If you’re visiting in early September, you don’t have to …

5 Breathtaking Places to See the First Autumn Leaves in Japan (Early September Picks) Read More »

Late summer in Japan —spanning late August to mid-September— is a sweet spot for travelers. The intense midsummer heat begins to ease, highland areas feel crisp and refreshing, and some elevated regions even start showing the first hints of autumn color. It’s a time when summer greens blend beautifully with golden fields and early foliage, …

Late Summer in Japan: 7 Unforgettable Scenic Day Trips Before Autumn Arrives Read More »

Japan’s world-class public transportation system is one of the country’s biggest draws. With its extensive rail network, punctuality, and convenience, it’s easy to see why many travelers opt for trains and subways to explore the country. But when summer rolls around—bringing with it heat, humidity, and crowds—the equation can change quickly. If you’re traveling with …

4 Powerful Reasons Private Transfers Beat Public Transit for Summer Travel in Japan Read More »

Japan’s summer can be intense—with sweltering temperatures and crowded cities—but there’s a refreshing alternative: highland escapes in Japan. These cooler, elevated regions offer not only natural air-conditioning, but also stunning scenery, cultural treasures, and tranquil moments away from the bustle. Whether you’re traveling from Tokyo, Kyoto, or Osaka, these six highland destinations are ideal for …

6 Cool Highland Escapes in Japan to Beat the Summer Heat Read More »