Japan

Japan is graced with the beauty of its iconic Sakura trees, widely known as cherry blossom trees. But when exactly does this breathtaking event take place? Usually, the blooming of the Japanese cherry blossom begins on Okinawa Island in late January. From there, it gradually moves up the country until late April or early May. When Is Cherry Blossom Season in Japan? The period during which they blo..

A trip to Japan wouldn’t be complete without sampling authentic Japanese cuisine, from freshly-made sushi to traditional udon noodle dishes. When dining out in Japan, it’s important to understand all there is to know about Japan’s food culture and the etiquette that comes with it. Locals in Japan love to dine out - and there's a good reason for that! Japan’s rich heritage is steeped in culinary de..

Highlights: Experiencing an authentic Japanese dinner Tour Description: For a truly authentic Japanese dinner experience, don’t miss the opportunity to enjoy a Shabu Shabu dinner. This is a popular hot pot dish consisting of thinly sliced meat and bite-sized vegetables cooked in a steaming hot broth. The name Shabu Shabu comes from the onomatopoeic Japanese for ‘Swish swish’, describing the sound..

Highlights: Learning about Kanazawa's traditional crafts Kagayuzen Kimono centre Tour Description: You will learn about two of Kanazawa’s traditional crafts on this fascinating afternoon tour. Kutani pottery is a style of Japanese porcelain made locally, using a technique which dates from 1655. You will visit a craftsman and their workshop, and see the production process from forming, biscuit firi..

Highlights: Japanese-French Dinner Ivy Square Tour Description: Ivy Square is a complex of ivy-clad brick buildings that include museums, restaurants and an hotel. The area was the site of the first modern cotton mill in Japan, and the buildings were originally constructed as part of the mill in 1889. You will also enjoy a top quality Japanese-French dinner in a nearby restaurant. The menu include..

Highlights: Experiencing a Japanese BBQ Tour Description: Yakiniku, a Japanese style BBQ, is one of the popular dishes in Japan; there are over 18,000 Yakiniku restaurants all over the country, so it’s almost the national dish!  Simple yet delicious, this communal meal offers fine selections of meat, vegetables, and various dipping sauces. You will gather around a table with a small barbecue grill..

Highlights:  Learning how to make Japanese pancakes Tour Description: Okonomiyaki is a type of Japanese pancake and is a classic dish of the Hiroshima region. Tonight, we have the chance to taste these delicious pancakes! Okonomiyaki are made with egg, cabbage, soba noodles, meat, seafood or cheese, all grilled on a Teppan, a giant iron plate. What's Included: Okonomiyaki making experience Soft dr..

Highlights: Tasting Hida Beef Tour Description: Hida-Gyu is beef from black-haired Japanese cattle bred in Gifu prefecture, where Takayama is located. Hida-Gyu is renowned as one of the finest quality meats in Japan, and a speciality of the area. The family-run restaurant is housed in a renovated Kominka; a traditional Japanese house built of wood and with a thatched roof. You will be warmly welco..

Highlights: Sanju Sangendo Ancient Japanese art of paper fan painting Tour Description: Our afternoon tour begins with a visit to Sanju Sangendo, a temple in eastern Kyoto founded in 1164 and famed for its 1001 statues of Kannon, the goddess of mercy. After visiting the hall, we move on to a craft shop and learn about the ancient Japanese art of paper fan painting. Sensu, or folding fans, are a be..