Travel Tips

Japan's northernmost island of Hokkaido is the perfect destination for travelers seeking a different side of the country. Home to some of the country's most breathtaking scenery, this land also avoids the kind of sweltering summertime humidity found further south, making it a prime destination in the warmer months.
Enjoy a relaxing getaway while being able to connect with locals, by staying at a holiday rental. As many traditional-style Japanese homes have been renovated into holiday rentals, you can enjoy a unique experience first-hand. Plus, staying close to local residents and exploring the city from their perspective will give you an insight into the area you might not get otherwise.
Read on to hear our recommendations for vacation rentals in Hokkaido.
1. Hakodate Classic Hotels: Relax at the historic Western-style hotel in Hakodate
The renovated old Wajima residence (Photo courtesy of Hakodate Classic Hotels)
Hakodate opened its doors to the world as a trading port in 18..

The number of foreign tourists visiting the city of Sapporo is increasing. In addition to various events held throughout the year, such as the Snow Festival and the YOSAKOI Soran Festival, the city has many other tourist attractions.
Here, one of our local writers introduces sightseeing spots in the Sapporo city area that you can visit in a single day!
1.10:00 – Visit the Sapporo Clock Tower2.11:00 – Stroll around Odori Park3.12:00 – Visit Sapporo TV Tower4.13:00 – Gourmet seafood lunch at Nijo Market5.14:30 – Go to the Shiroi Koibito Park, a good place for Instagram photos6.16:30 – Tea time at the popular cafe FAbULOUS in Soseigawa East7.18:30 – Take in the night view from Mt. Moiwa8.20:00 – Enjoy Hokkaido delicacies & local sake in Susukino1.10:00 – Visit the Sapporo Clock Tower
The Clock Tower, a proud historical Sapporo landmark, was built in 1878 as a demonstration hall of Sapporo Agricultural School, which was the predecessor of Hokkaido University. Three years after its constru..

Sendai is the largest city in northeast Japan's Tohoku region. Around 90 minutes via Shinkansen bullet train from Tokyo and with excellent access to the rest of Tohoku, Sendai is a popular destination to visit.
Here we will introduce some useful tips when traveling to Sendai, including transportation access from Tokyo, the delicious local dishes to try, and the famous historical sites to visit!
Main photo by: PIXTA
1. Quick facts about Sendai
Photo by: PIXTA
Where is Sendai in Japan?
Sendai is the largest city in the northeastern area of Japan’s main island of Honshu, and is located in Miyagi Prefecture.
The history of Sendai began in 1601 when the famous warrior of Japan’s Sengoku Period, Date Masamune, built Sendai Castle as well as the town around it. This history is an important part of how Sendai became the city it is today.
Photo by: PIXTA
One of the attractive features of sightseeing in Sendai is getting to try all of the delicious cuisines.
An example of a Sendai origi..

Tokyo has many different faces during both day and night. Among them, the nighttime scenery is a must-see. Let us show you five of the best of the spots for Tokyo night views, ranging from a popular tower to some lesser-known observation rooms.
1. Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building Observation Deck
Photo courtesy of: Tokyo Prefecture
The Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building is in Shinjuku. From its observation deck on the top floor, you can look down on the glittering neon city of Tokyo, a city that never sleeps. And after sunset, it's especially amazing for Tokyo night views!
Not only is there no admission fee but it is also easily accessible. How about spending some time watching the view as it changes from a golden twilight to the shining neon light of the evening?
Tokyo Metropolitan Government
2-8-1, Nishishinjuku, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo
Tochomae
03-3277-2815Tokyo’s No. 1 Free Observation Deck: 360° Panoramic Views From These Downtown Skyscrapers!
2. Roppongi Hills Observato..

Japa’s sweltering summer is finally here! You know the drill: pack some SPF, sandals and your best summer hat, and get started searching for ways to escape the heat. But, before you buy a ticket to a more popular summer destination, hear me out.

What if I told you there was an underrated prefecture perfect for a summer getaway? Look no further than Fukui. Home to temples, nature escapes and dinosaurs, this underrated vacation destination is guaranteed to make you fall in love.

Here are four destinations to make Fukui your next summer getaway!

1. Soak in the sun at Mizushima
Photo: Wikicommons/ AlpsdakeMizu Island
Escaping to an uninhabited island for the summer sounds like something only celebrities do. But in Fukui, it’s as easy as jumping on a little ferry and taking a 5-minute ride to paradise. Mizushima is a must for beach goers. The white sand and clear water make the island feel like a mini Hawaii.

Since the shade is limited on the island, you may want to pack a tent or wear ..

Miyagi Prefecture is home to one of the world’s top three fishing spots – the Kinkasan-Sanriku fishing grounds. Not far away is the capital city of Sendai, and as you might imagine, the incredibly fresh and beautiful seafood is a must-try when visiting the area!
A recommended seafood shop near Sendai Station is Osakana Center Ichinoichi. It’s usually packed with visitors as it offers top-quality seafood at unbelievably reasonable prices! And of course, many visitors can't help but share it with their socials. Here we will introduce their popular seafood bowl that overflows with toppings.
Osakana Center Ichinoichi: Enjoy a variety-filled seafood bowl right by Sendai Station
Once you exit Sendai Station’s West Exit on the second floor, make your way towards Hotel Metropolitan Sendai on your left. From here, walk down the stairs of the pedestrian deck.
After leaving Sendai Station’s West Exit and taking a left at Hotel Metropolitan Sendai, Osakana Center Ichinoichi can be found a mer..

Mt. Moiwa is roughly in the center of Sapporo City and rises up some 535 meters. The view from the top affords an excellent view of Sapporo plus a spectacular view of Ishikari Bay and Ishikari Plain in the distance.
The glittering lights of Sapporo at night are recognized as one of Japan’s best three night views. Mount Moiwa's superb scenery together with gourmet dishes and nature strolls makes it one of Sapporo's main points of interest.
Here are some suggestions on how to enjoy the night view from Mt. Moiwa.
Scenic view of Sapporo at night from the Mt. Moiwa observation deck
Getting to the top of Mount Moiwa: the Mt. Moiwa Ropeway
The general way to get to the top of Mt. Moiwa is to first take the Sapporo Mt. Moiwa Ropeway from Sanroku Station and then change to the Morris mini-cable car at Chufuku Station which leaves at 15-minute intervals.
The ropeway ride is about 5 minutes. You can get a good view of the city below from the car
The Morris car is two connected mini-cabl..

If you’re looking to work in Japan, check back here each week as we look through our database of top jobs in Japan posted to GaijinPot and showcase some of the most interesting ones.

You can apply directly to these companies by creating a profile on GaijinPot Jobs!

Arabic/Japanese/English Interpreter TranslatorCompany: Embassy of the United Arab EmiratesSalary: ¥590,000 ~ ¥700,000 / Month NegotiableLocation: Tokyo, JapanEnglish: FluentJapanese: FluentApplication: Must currently reside in JapanThe embassy of United Arab Emirates is seeking a new interpreter and translator.
Your main duty will include translate, edit and revise letters, reports, documents, texts, news articles, studies and presentations from English and Japanese language into Arabic and vice versa.
Fluency in English, Arabic and Japanese is preferred.
Share this Job Apply Here
Japanese to English Translator/EditorCompany: AbracadabraSalary: ¥250,000 ~ ¥350,000 / Month NegotiableLocation: Tokyo, JapanEnglish: Native l..

The Shonan and Enoshima area is one of the most popular day-trip destinations for both Tokyo locals and tourists. Even though the beautiful island is easily accessible from the capital, a lot of people only visit the nearby Kamakura with its many shrines and temples. That’s a shame because Enoshima is a treasure trove of amazing spots and discoveries! Come with us on a tour along its must-visit spots!
Enoshima, a Stunning Island Only One Hour Away from Tokyo
Enoshima is in the Shonan area and offers unique sights and experiences throughout the year, fun for families, couples, friends, and solo travelers alike! From shrines and temples to gourmet delights and bathing in the sea, there’s much to see and do.
It takes about one hour from Tokyo to Katase Enoshima Station on the Odakyu Line. After meeting friends at the station, we head straight for Enoshima!
The station building is designed after the famous undersea palace of the dragon deity.
After about 5 minutes of walk, we reach the two..

When visiting Kyoto, many tourists like to rent a kimono or yukata and spend a day strolling around the historical sights.
In Kyoto, you can immerse yourself in Japan’s history and culture. This sightseeing mainstay offers traditional townscapes, and a unique atmosphere only found in temples and shrines.
Strolling around dressed in kimono will let you take your visit a step further and create a wonderful memory. Here, we will introduce 11 affordable kimono rental shops in Kyoto to make your dream a reality.
Main photo: Kyoto Aiwafuku Fushimi Inari
What to know before renting a kimono in Kyoto
Whether you're renting a kimono in Tokyo, Kyoto, or anywhere else in Japan, there are a few things to know before you go.
1. The price is mainly based on the outfit selection, accessories, how long you'll rent the kimono for, and package add-ons.
2. It typically doesn't take a lot of time to be fitted in a kimono. However, if you choose a plan that includes hair styling, it may ta..