“What is your favorite prefecture?”

If I got 100 yen every time someone asked me this, I would probably have enough to fund my own rural tourism campaign by now, complete with cultish pamphlets and questionable daikon mascot.

Coming from a tropical country basically means I have spent my entire life in sweltering heat, perpetually sweaty shirts, and weather forecasts that are completely useless, which probably explains why I am endlessly drawn to what I cannot have.

A world of silver fluff. Air so crisp and quiet it actually hurts your face a little. read more

Most people think Sanrio Puroland is a theme park just for kids. Tiny rides, squealing toddlers, and parents counting minutes until the exit.

They are wrong.

For anyone who grew up with Sanrio characters, this place is a full-scale childhood dream come true for adults.

If Hello Kitty once lived on your pencil case, if Cinnamoroll smiled at you from a notebook, or if characters like Kerokerokeroppi and Badtz-Maru quietly shaped your sense of fun and style, Sanrio Puroland hits on a deeply nostalgic level. It is not about rides or thrills. It is about memory, comfort, and reconnecting with the joy you were told to outgrow. read more

Tokyo again? Of course. We all love Tokyo. I immensely do, which is why I have lived here for 6 years.

But this time, instead of sprinting off to some faraway prefecture, we decided to look just one step beyond the city limits. And that is how we ended up in Saitama — the place everyone loves to tease… until they actually visit.

Saitama may not be the first place that comes to mind when planning a trip around Tokyo, but our 4-day, 3-night journey through its Bonsai village, shrines, mountain temples, tea fields, and local cuisine revealed a destination rich in character and discovery. read more

If you’ve ever done Japan’s Golden Route, Tokyo → Kyoto, you’ve definitely passed by this city… and also spectacularly missed it.

That city is Hamamatsu, connected by the Hikari on the Tokaido Shinkansen: 1 hour 30 minutes from Tokyo, and about 1 hour from Kyoto, sitting almost Goldilocks-perfect between the two, making it the ultimate “you had no excuse to skip it” stopover.

Yet, most travelers whizz past, eyes glued to Mt Fuji, completely unaware that Hamamatsu quietly packs some of Japan’s best culture, craftsmanship, food, nature, and musical history into one very livable, very underrated city. read more

Living in Tokyo means I’m spoiled for choice with quick getaways. Ask me my go-to short trips for first-timers to Tokyo and without hesitation I’d say Hakone for hot springs or Enoshima/Kamakura for the ocean breeze.

But here’s my guilty confession: I haven’t been back in ages. Well… we know that it is because they’ve both become mainstream. Translation: the kind of crowd that makes you accidentally photobomb 17 strangers’ selfies in one walk.

Still, I get asked all the time for recommendations, and truth is — these places are popular for a reason, because… they are awesome. Simple as that. read more

When was the last time I talked about fashion?

Checks calendar… cringes internally.

Yep, probably around ten years ago. Or wait—longer?

Ah, Tsugaike Mountain Resort. Where do I start? I have been there 3 times now, with so many photos almost enough for me to create my own Tsugaike 4-season calendar.This is a place where nature demands your attention year-round, and one of those places you just have to go back a different time for a different experience.

Although over-tourism has become a hot topic in recent years, Kyoto remains an iconic destination that every first-time traveler to Japan dreams of visiting at least once. Known for its rich history, timeless temples, and serene gardens, Kyoto’s charm is undeniable.

However, if you’re visiting Kyoto in the summer, be prepared for a different kind of experience. The city, nestled in a basin surrounded by mountains, can feel like a steamy cauldron during the warmer months. And just when you’ve adjusted to the heat, late summer has its own tricks—sudden downpours that can take you by surprise! read more

When you think of Nagano Prefecture, it’s hard not to imagine its renowned winter resorts blanketed in pristine snow and the breathtaking majesty of the Japanese Alps. While its world-class snow resorts are indeed a must-see, Nagano has much more to offer beyond the slopes.

One of the region’s best-kept secrets is the Suwa area, an often overlooked gem in Nagano that had been on my bucket list for as long as I can remember. This underexplored part of Nagano offers a rich tapestry of history, culture, and authentic suburban charm that is waiting to be discovered. read more

I have introduced Takashimaya a number of times on my blog and social media (particularly here and here) highlighting the timeless allures of this iconic departmental store.

However, the special event I recently attended allowed me to appreciate Takashimaya, and subsequently Japan, from a broader and more profound perspective. It was an incredibly heartwarming experience.

The event was “43rd Japan Traditional Craft Exhibition”, held at Nihombashi Takashimaya S.C. in Tokyo, from 15-20 May, 2024. read more

I hope you find my previous article on Kyoto Takashimaya S.C. helpful.

If your travels take you to Osaka, let me share a hidden gem intimately connected with Takashimaya Osaka that might surprise many.

Takashimaya Archives: A Journey Through Time

In my earlier post, I touched upon the origins of Takashimaya – evolving from a modest used clothing and cotton cloth store to a prestigious department store brand over 190 years. The Takashimaya Archives offers a unique window into this storied history, complete with the company’s endearing mascot, Rose-chan. read more

(Mario statue at 1F of Kyoto Takashimaya S.C. new area T8.)

For any avid fan of Japan, the name Takashimaya resonates as an emblem of international repute among department stores.

My sojourn in Singapore in 2016 placed me in close proximity to Ngee Ann City, and I found myself drawn to “Taka” – as Singaporeans affectionately call it – every other day, seeking a slice of Japan. For many, Takashimaya serves as a beloved portal to authentic Japanese culture.

Did you know how Takashimaya was born? read more