Regional JR Passes vs the Japan Rail Pass: 2026 Comparison
Kansai, Tokyo Wide or the 53,000-yen national pass? Three real routes, real math and the regional passes that quietly beat the big one in 2026.
The 3 Best Day Trips from Kyoto: Nara, Osaka & Himeji (2026)
Deer in Nara, neon dinners in Osaka and the White Heron castle of Himeji: three easy day trips from Kyoto with 2026 fares and the new Himeji ticket price.
Suica and IC Cards in Japan: The 2026 Tourist Guide
Welcome Suica Mobile, Apple Wallet Suica or the plastic card? How Japan’s tap-to-ride system works in 2026 and which version to get.
How Much Does a Trip to Japan Cost? Our 2026 Budget Breakdown
Real 2026 numbers for a Japan trip: daily budgets, JR Pass math, hotels, food and the five habits that keep Japan cheap.
7 Top Kyoto Hotels with Hot Springs (2026)
Updated August 2026: availability and links for all seven hotels re-checked, and we added a live price map for Kyoto. One thing you need to know about Japan is that their hot spring culture is thriving; however, if you visit Japan, you will need to keep your eyes peeled for ‘onsens,’ which is what they…
Japan Rail Pass Review 2026: Is the JR Pass Worth It?
Updated August 2026: every price in this review was re-checked against the official JR price list, including the JR Pass price increase coming on October 1, 2026. There are many ways of getting around in Japan. Its road and public transport networks, and even airports, are quite easy to access and understand. Some of the…
Our Hiroshima Day trip – Is Hiroshima worth visiting?
Updated August 2026: opening hours, prices and transport re-checked, plus a cost breakdown for the whole day. At the beginning of our Japan trip, we spent one day in Hiroshima and Miyajima. It seemed ridiculous to go and enjoy the best of Japan but not visit one of the most tragic – and interesting –…
Best Bars in Shinjuku: Golden Gai, Izakayas & Cocktail Spots
Updated August 2026: bars re-checked (Golden Gai turnover is real), plus cover-charge and cash tips. Shinjuku is a special ward in Tokyo, and it also happens to be the spot with the best nightlife in the country. As a major commercial hub with the busiest railway in the world, you know you can find some…
First time in Japan: Places to visit in Japan for first-timers and Japan travel tips
Updated August 2026: prices, transport and entry tips re-checked, including the JR Pass increase coming in October 2026. If it’s going to be your first time in Japan, get ready for quite the culture shock. Japan – a place of immense beauty and incredible culture. Where the newest advancements in technology meet centuries-old traditions. It’s…
13 Best Ryokan in Hakone with Private Onsen (2026 Review)
Updated August 2026: all 13 ryokan re-checked for availability and prices, plus a live price map. Staying in a ryokan in Hakone with private onsen was one of the best experiences we had in Japan. There’s subtle luxury, traditional Japanese hospitality and culture, incredibly tasty food (kaiseki is something else when you’re in a ryokan)……