Overtourism in Kyoto is a controversial topic, and that’s because no city has been as impacted by Japan’s rising tourism numbers. Crowds are colossal during peak seasons and holidays, top temples are packed, buses are bursting, and areas are impassable due to congestion. It’s undeniable that Kyoto is overcrowded. Or rather, that parts of it are […]
This guide to Universal Studios Japan offers tips & tricks for visiting Osaka’s popular theme park, which is home to Super Nintendo World, Harry Potter, Jaws, and more! This includes USJ strategy & info about where to eat, what to do, how to avoid crowds, minimize wait times, and more! (Updated June 30, 2025.) After being […]
When to visit Kyoto to avoid crowds, experience seasonal beauty, and enjoy the top festivals is important for first-timers to Japan. There will be no single worst or best time–it depends on your priorities. In this guide, we’ll narrow down your options to help you assess when is the best time for you to visit Kyoto, Japan […]
For the last decade, we assumed that traveling to Japan with small kids would be a nightmare. In fact, we made a concerted effort to visit as much as possible before having a baby–including multi-month “bucket list” type trips–because we feared that would be impossible with an infant or toddler. After spending well over a […]
Our fall colors forecast for Japan offers peak viewing info & tips for popular autumn foliage spots, including Kyoto, Tokyo, Mount Fuji, Miyajima, Hiroshima, Himeji, and Nara. We’ll also share strategy for visiting the best temples, shrines, and evening illuminations. Autumn is one of the most stunning times of the year in Japan, and one […]
This Osaka city guide provides travel tips including things to do, where to stay, transportation info, and more about Japan’s third-largest city. We’ve spent months in the Kansai region and spent extensive time in the former imperial capital, and have advice and trip planning info based on those firsthand experiences. (Updated February 6, 2025.) If […]
The Park Hyatt Tokyo is located in the Shinjuku district of the city. This hotel review shares photos of our room, common areas, and dining. We’ll also offer thoughts on our stay here, value for money, location, and how this compares to other accommodations in Japan. Park Hyatt Tokyo is one of the nicest hotels […]
Robot Restaurant is a crazy dinner show in the neon district of Shinjuku in Tokyo with samurai, dancers, monsters, etc. This review shares whether it’s worth the money, photos from our experiences, and info about its replacement and reopening. (Updated January 21, 2025.) The bad news: Robot Restaurant has now been temporarily closed for the […]
This guide to sakura season in Japan and cherry blossom forecast for 2025 covers our favorite spots, best temples & shrines in Kyoto, tips & tricks for avoiding crowds. We also take a deeper dive into the topic, highlighting hidden gems where you’ll find fewer people and no busloads of tour groups. (Updated January 21, […]
Shibuya Sky is the highest open-air rooftop observation deck in Japan. Located on the 47th floor of the Shibuya Scramble Square building, the top deck is at about 230m or 751 feet high. This review offers info, tips & tricks, and recommendations for getting the most out of your experience at Shibuya Sky. Review might […]