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Dana Yao

This is where we share exclusive travel stories from Japan and beyond. Plus culturally aware guides, step-by-step itineraries, and smart tips so you can plan less, see more, and travel with confidence.

Featured Post

3 things we'd book now for a fall Japan trip 🍁 🇯🇵

Hi Reader, It's been a while since our last Japan travel email, but we're back! Thank you to everyone who stuck around. We spent the past few months building out our YouTube channel, and the newest video is a full day in Uji. Fall trips are just weeks away too, so I've also got a short list of what to book before you go! One Day in Uji, Japan's Matcha Town If you love matcha, Uji would be a perfect day trip to add to your itinerary if you're visiting Kyoto or Osaka. It's only 25 minutes from...

Odaiba Sunset Stroll

Hi Reader, You’ve probably seen or even visited Tokyo’s classic attractions like Shibuya Crossing, Asakusa, Shinjuku, or even Harajuku. But after living and traveling here, our favorite area might surprise you. It is Odaiba, the manmade island in Tokyo Bay. Rain or shine, Odaiba is full of shopping, museums, parks, and attractions that work for family trips, date nights, or casual outings. And if you have ever watched a J-drama with twinkling city lights by the water, chances are it was...

Daruma Dolls at Katsuoji, Osaka

Hi Reader, We have been to Osaka 6 times now, and this trip we carved out half a day for a little escape: Katsuoji Temple and Minoh Falls. Totally different vibes, but together they made for a calm, nature-filled break from the city. If you want all of our Osaka recommendations, here’s our previous issue with handpicked spots, where we stayed, and extra tips for making the most of your time in Osaka. Stop 1: Katsuoji — The Temple of Victory and Luck Just an hour from Osaka by subway and bus,...

Shinseikai Area in Osaka, Japan

Hi Reader, Hello from Osaka! Hard to believe this is our 6th time here, but somehow this city still keeps us on our toes. The vibe is so different from Tokyo. Osaka is warmer, louder (in a good way), and always, always more delicious than we remember. If Osaka is on your list, here's our 3-day Osaka itinerary based on our favorite finds, plus a few things we’d do differently next time. We highly recommend grabbing the Osaka Amazing Pass: a 1-day or 2-day pass that covers 40+ attractions and...