In the previous edition of The Japan Agenda: The Premium Travel Blueprint, we explored Niigata and the nearby Sado Island. Full of picturesque sights like the Kiyotsu Gorge and Sado Gold Mines, these itineraries are created to highlight Japan’s lesser-known but equally-beautiful areas. On this edition of The Japan Agenda: The Premium Travel Blueprint, continuing with crafting adventures of Japan’s roads less traveled, we are taking you to and around Kyushu, one of Japan’s four main islands. 

Every Kyushu prefecture has its own charm and personality, all distinct yet harmonious, creating an adventure not to be missed, and with a short flight to Fukuoka from Manila, the wonders of Kyushu are just quick trip away. Join us as we take you through the island’s unique historical landmarks and culinary comforts.

Day 1: Arrival in Fukuoka Airport

Afternoon: Arrive in Fukuoka Airport from Manila, and check-in at Mitsui Garden Hotel Fukuoka Gion.

Photo courtesy of Visit Fukuoka

Evening: Spend your first night immersing yourself in Fukuoka’s local delicacies at the stalls of Yatai. Slurp down a hearty Hakata tonkotsu ramen dinner, known for its flavorful white broth. 

Day 2: Nagasaki

Morning: Make your way to Nagasaki from Fukuoka, and consider checking-in at a hotel like the JR Kyushu Hotel Nagasaki near the station. 

Afternoon to Evening: Visit Glover Garden for an open-air tour of the old mansions once inhabited by Western Merchants, with the piece de resistance being the Former Glover House. All mansions are surrounded with well-maintained and colorful flower arrangements, completing the already beautiful scene. 

Photo from Japan National Tourism Organization

Nagasaki has several high-rise cathedrals that will awe any visitor, with many of them located within driving distance from another, so explore as many of them as you can. The must-see churches are the Urakami Cathedral up north, the Nakamachi Catholic Church south of that, and the Oura Cathedral further down, with other churches along the way. 

End the day on a filling noodle dish like Champon in Nagasaki Shinchi Chinatown, a city staple with an abundance of seafood and vegetable toppings paired with tasty noodles and soup. 

Day 3: Nagasaki

Morning: Check-out of your hotel, and step into a new world at Huis Ten Bosch. To fully immerse yourself in this foreign town, book rooms at Hotel Nikko Huis Ten Bosch. 

Photo from Japan National Tourism Organization

Afternoon to Evening: Explore Huis Ten Bosch, a town built to commemorate the long friendship between the Dutch and the Japanese. Akin to a European city, Huis Ten Bosch has walkable streets that all lead to exciting places, with light displays, virtual rafting rides, and dressed-up buildings that complete this otherworldly experience. 

Day 4: Saga 

Morning: Before embarking on your Nagasaki to Saga road trip, have a Sasebo burger for breakfast in Nagasaki! The Sasebo burger is iconic in Japan, with a history dating back 50 years, and an authentic American taste. 

Afternoon: Make your way to Saga, near our starting point of Fukuoka. Explore another Euro-inspired area, this time with influences from Germany. The Arita Porcelain Park is known for its world-class porcelain, quiet yet vibrant gardens, and open parks, with restaurants around the area and souvenir shops for your loved ones back home.

Photo from Japan National Tourism Organization 

While you’re in Saga, stop by the Yutoku Inari Shrine, one of the country’s top shrines dedicated to Inari. Ascend the stone steps under the Torii gates to find the majestic main hall, bordered by verdant Japanese flora. 

Evening: Soak in the mending alkaline waters at the Takeo Onsen, a traditional Japanese onsen special water that revitalizes the skin and helps with conditions. They also hold pottery workshops and exhibit artifacts that hold the history to the onsen. 

Day 5: Saga to Fukuoka

Morning: Before heading back to Fukuoka, visit the Tosu Premium Outlets, with high-quality brand stores around every turn to treat yourself to. 

Afternoon: Once you get to Fukuoka, take a historical tour of Hakata Old Town. The tour will take you around the entire site, where you will learn about the old hub for Chinese merchants, going through the Sakura tea store, the Jotenji and Tochoji temple, and the resting place of the famous Chinese merchant Xie Guoming. Watch expert craftsmen hold demonstrations on their art of weaving textile and painting lanterns.   

Photo courtesy of Visit Fukuoka

Evening: After a long day of travels and tours, fill-up on hot-pot perfection with either Motsunabe, packed with beef or pork offal with a hearty helping of vegetables, or Mizutaki, with chicken and shitake mushrooms slow-cooked with the broth. Both are core to Fukuoka’s cuisine, so get them both for a perfect dinner to feed the whole family. After dinner, check back into our point-zero: Mitsui Garden Hotel Fukuoka Gion. 

Day 6: Fukuoka

Morning: Start your final morning of the trip with some much-needed downtime. Pair your morning ambience with some specialty chai at one of the many nearby café’s, with a variety of chai blends and spices to suit any and all tastes. 

Afternoon: Go on a shopping-spree at Canal City Hakata, with over 250 shops, cafés, and restaurants to choose from, all in this creatively colorful mall. Don’t forget to buy pasalubong for the people back home!

Evening: Make your way back to Fukuoka Airport, and leave for Manila with a newfound appreciation for Kyushu’s one-of-a-kind wonder. 

Additional recommendations:

Photo from Japan National Tourism Organization

Capture the sunset in Itoshima, a coastal gem nearby Fukuoka. Known for its scenic beaches, rugged cliffs, and sparkling waters, every corner turned is a new sight to see and a new memory to make, so bring a camera and snapshot lifelong keepsakes.

Should your trip land between October 31st and November 4th, make time for the Saga International Balloon Fiesta to see the colorful and uniquely-designed hot-air balloons paint the sky for a stunning scene. 

As we mark the end of this adventure, we hope that the beauty of Kyushu and its prefectures has been revealed to you. Words and photos can only do so much to capture the magic of Japan, so plan your trip to Kyushu soon and see it for yourself.

Stay tuned for next month’s agenda for more extraordinary journeys that make you fall in love with Japan, one trip at a time. 

In the previous edition, we went through the Tohoku region, and how its beauty is brought out in the summer. With one-of-a-kind dining experiences and luscious seascapes, we don’t simply plan trips, we curate adventures for you and your family to fall in love with Japan again and again. In this month’s Japan Agenda: The Premium Travel Blueprint series, we’re taking you to and through the Tokai region, namely Nagoya, Mie, Shizuoka, and Gifu. From the urban wonders of Nagoya, to the streets preserved in time in Gifu, this five-day trip has it all laid out for you, including accommodations on each stop should you want to get comfortable in each area. 

For lovers of history, food, or just good travels, this trip through Nagoya and the surrounding areas has something for everyone. Get ready to plan your next vacation to Japan as we lay out this premium itinerary full of unparalleled experiences for you to enjoy. 

Day 1: Arrival in Nagoya 

Morning: 

Arrive at Chubu Centrair International Airport via direct flight from Ninoy Aquino International Airport. Check-in at a comfortable hotel near the excitement of the city at the Marriott Nagoya. 

Photo courtesy of Visit Nagoya

Afternoon: 

For history buffs, spend the afternoon exploring Nagoya Castle and the surrounding gardens. You can also take this time to decompress from the flight, enjoying the hotel’s many amenities. Nagoya has many delicacies to enjoy, like their Nagoya Meshi, Miso Katsu, and Hitsumabushi. There are restaurants around every corner, so take a look around and find your favorite!

Evening: 

Immerse yourself in Nagoya's nightlife, offering a diverse mix of bars, clubs, and entertainment venues. The popular Oasis 21 provides a stunning nighttime view from the observation deck. 

Day 2: Shizuoka 

Morning:

Take a private car to Shizuoka for the rest of the day’s activities. 

Afternoon:

Photo from Japan National Tourism Organization

Take the rest of the afternoon exploring Hamamatsu! The Hamamatsu Flower Park displays beautifully landscaped gardens of flowerbeds for a picturesque stroll, with art exhibitions and musical performances that paint the already lively atmosphere with more vibrance and wonder. 

Learn about the region’s famous green tea at the Shizuoka Tea Museum, where they offer tea-tasting sessions to soothe your body and enrich your tastebuds.

Evening:

Check-in and cool-off at a relaxing hotel! Both Hotel Green Plaza Hamanako and Hoshino Resorts KAI Enshu have delicious dinner options and amenities to clear the mind before the next set of exciting destinations.

Day 3: Gifu

Morning:

Our next stop is up north at Gifu. If you’re looking to stay and get comfortable, consider staying at Juhachiro, a traditional ryokan offering Japanese-style rooms and hot spring baths, driving distance from the Nagaragawa River. Take the morning to enjoy the sunrise while surrounded with a Japanese ambiance, or wander through Gifu Castle atop Mount Kinka to get a better view of the area at dawn. 

Afternoon:

Explore the historic Kawaramachi district, known for its well-preserved Edo-period buildings and streets that paint a historical atmosphere – a peek into Japan’s rich history. 

Evening:

Photo from Japan National Tourism Organization

Witness the unique and traditional ukai or cormorant fishing technique at Nagaragawa River at night, where they use bright lamps to draw out the fish, and expert fishing birds to catch them. After, go on a culinary adventure in Gifu City, trying local specialties such as Hida beef or river fish dishes, caught using the fishing ritual. 

Day 4: Mie

Morning:

Check-in at Nagashima Resort and explore their many leisure facilities. Use the serenity of the sunrise to relax at their onsen complex, or go on a shopping adventure at Mitsui Outlet Park Jazz Dream Nagashima.

Afternoon to Evening:

Have fun with the family or attune to your inner-child at Nagashima Spa Land, a water park with waterslides, swimming pools, and some of Japan’s most nail-biting rollercoasters. 

Photo from Japan National Tourism Organization

After that thrilling afternoon, relax and take in the lights at Nabana no Sato Flower Park, where they have set the evening scene with a tunnel of luminescent lights and arranged, creating a picturesque memory not to be forgotten. After, enjoy a hearty noodle dinner at one of the many restaurants around the flower park. 

Day 5: Nagoya

Photo courtesy of Visit Nagoya

Morning: 

Experience Nagoya’s iconic breakfast culture called “morning” or “morning service”. Customers receive breakfast free of charge when they order a drink! The complimentary food varies but one popular option is the Ogura toast, which is topped with butter and red bean paste. Be sure to fill-up for your final day of the trip! 

Afternoon:

Take the kids to Legoland! The park is sectioned into different Lego worlds, with pirates, knights, and a factory where kids can flex their creative muscle. There are many different rides to ride and sights to see, so you’ll never run out of activities! 

Photo from Japan National Tourism Organization

For fans of the esteemed Japanese Animation Studio, visit the Ghibli Park and immerse yourself in the worlds seen in the films, like Dondoko Forest from My Neighbor Totoro and Mononoke Village from Princess Mononoke.

Evening:

If you have more time before flying home, take the final evening to explore Nagoya Station and its delicious dining options. After, head back to Chubu Centrair International Airport and have a safe flight back home! 

Additional Recommendations:

Shizuoka is also famous for Shimoda beach, with translucent waters and bright sand. If you’re willing to be more distant from Nagoya, consider staying a night or two at the seaside resorts like Shimoda Yamatokan. 

Looking for more to do in Mie? Wander through Okage Yokocho, a traditional shopping street that offers local food and charming souvenirs, all nearby is the sacred Ise Grand Shrine. 

Gifu has no shortage of magical places that feel like living paintings. With the greener-than-life Shirakawa-go village, the historical streets of Takayama, and the stunning Gero Onsen that runs through the town, consider spending a few extra days at Gifu for a one-of-a-kind experience. 

As we conclude our itinerary through urban jungles and natural beauties, we hope you have found inspiration for your next adventure. This itinerary can only do so much to describe the wonders of Nagoya and the Tokai Region, so be sure to book those flights and see it for yourself. Luckily, AirAsia is launching 3x weekly flights from Manila to Nagoya starting October 29! For more details visit: airasia.com

Stay tuned for next month’s agenda for more extraordinary journeys that make you fall in love with Japan, one trip at a time. 

While everyone is checking out the cherry blossoms, why not try something new and take in the plum blossoms of Japan, or “ume” as the Japanese call them. Blooming from mid-February to early March, these reddish, pink and white blossoms symbolise endurance and renewal and herald the beginning of spring. Travelling during this period enables you to evade the crowds that gather for the cherry blossom season.

Here are some of the best places to check out the plum blossoms:

Kitano Tenmangu Shrine, Kyoto

Photo provided by Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO)

The Kitano Tenmangu shrine has been known for its plum blossoms for hundreds of years. There are over 50 varieties of and around 1,500 plum blossom trees planted in the area marking the beginning of spring in Kyoto.. Every year on February 25th, Kitano Tenmangu hosts the “Baikasai” or the Plum Blossom Festival.

The easiest way to get to Kitano Tenmangu is by bus. From Kyoto Station, take the Kyoto City bus 50 or 101 and get off at the Kitano Tenmangu-mae stop.

Kairakuen, Mito

Photo provided by Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO)

Mito is famous for its plum blooms that there is a festival held  from late February to late March at the Kairakuen Garden to celebrate their arrival. People come from all over to see the beautiful landscape light up with pink and white flowers. There are thousands of plum trees in the Kairakuen Garden with over 100 varieties of plum. 

To get to Mito, take the JR Joban Line from Shinagawa, Tokyo, or Ueno Station to Mito Station. From there, it's a 30-minute walk along the edge of Lake Senba to Kairakuen Garden.

Yushima Tenjin Shrine, Tokyo

Photo provided by Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO)

This year marks the 67th Yushima Tenjin Ume Matsuri (Plum Blossom Festival), one of Tokyo’s most popular late-winter events taking place from February 8 to March 8. The Yushima Tenjin Shrine garden, holding 300 plum blossom trees is an oasis of calm in the frenetic metropolis. There are red bridges, manicured gardens, and a sense of well-being.

The Yushima Tenjin shrine is a two-minute walk from Exit 3 of Yushima Station on the Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line and is located near the Ueno Park.

The delicate blooms of the plum blossom tree are an essential part of Japanese springtime. Plum blossoms are celebrated in Japan for their beauty and endurance, they are the flower of renewal and they are sure to renew your interest in Japan!

For more downloadable photos and videos of Japan's beautiful and exciting tourist attractions for media usage, you may visit the Japan Online Media Center (JOMC) (http://business.jnto.go.jp/). 

Japan is a magical place in winter. When cooler weather rolls in, some of the coolest destinations are revealed! While Japan is famous for its excellent snow, there is so much more to see and do in the land of endless discovery. If you're looking to skip the slopes, check out some alternative options for the snow-lover who isn’t into skiing or snowboarding.

Rejuvenate Your Body In an Onsen

Photo provided by Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO)

Onsens, where one can bathe in mineral waters that ease muscles and increase blood flow, are open year-round and winter is the perfect time to enjoy them. These onsens are a wonderful place to relax and take in gorgeous landscapes you can only see in the winter. 

Consider Kinosaki Onsen, a historic hot spring resort in Hyogo Prefecture. The whole town lights up in the winter. Slip on a yukata, stroll around town, and visit the seven tattoo-friendly public bathhouses.

Kinosaki is on the San’in Main Line on the JR railway and is accessible from Osaka and Kyoto. It’s definitely worth a visit!

Watch The Snow Monkeys Play

Photo provided by Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO)

When the winter gets cold, even the monkeys hit the onsen! Japanese Macaques or “Snow Monkeys” are a highlight of the Japanese winter season. Watch them bathe and frolic in the snowy forest at the Jigokudani Monkey Park in Nagano Prefecture.

The monkeys visit the park year-round and can be seen soaking in the hot springs in winter. December to March is usually the best time to witness them bathing. To get there, buses run to Kanbayashi Onsen near the trail leading into the park from many popular destinations around the prefecture. From Kanbayashi Onsen, it's a 25 to 40-minute walk to the Snow Monkey Park. Alternatively, if you’re coming via train or bus, you may also disembark at the Snow Monkey Park bus stop and walk 35 minutes to the park. Be advised that visitors are prohibited from touching or feeding the wildlife.

Check Out The Sapporo Snow Festival

Photo provided by Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO)

One of the most famous events in Japan is the Sapporo Snow Festival. Every year in early February, about 400 giant ice sculptures draw crowds from all over the world.

Sapporo is the capital of Hokkaido and has its own international airport so it’s easy to get to as well as being one of the most popular destinations in Japan. Take in the sights and stunning illuminations while enjoying the local beer! It’s worth a trip.

See The Snow Monsters of Zao

Photo provided by Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO)

Mt. Zao is known for its ski resort but also for the unique formations that turn the mountain trees into “Snow Monsters” or “Juhyo”. In the winter, these fir trees get covered in ice and turn into towering pillars of snow. This phenomenon is rare and Mt. Zao is one of the few places in the world where conditions allow for it.

Zao Onsen Ski Resort is located in the mountains of Yamagata Prefecture and is accessible by bus from Yamagata Station.

Go Ice Fishing on Lake Gando

Nestled in Iwate Prefecture is Lake Gando. It’s called “the coldest place in Honshu”! From mid-January to late March, you can rent some gear and try your hand at ice fishing for smelt. Once you’ve caught enough, you can ask the rest house to fry it up for you tempura style. 

The Tohoku Shinkansen runs service between Morioka and Tokyo, so getting to Iwate prefecture is easy. Once you’re there, the lake is about an hour from Morioka Station. You can rent fishing gear at the Gandoko Rest House.

Japan is an incredible place to visit in the winter. There are so many unique experiences and events you should not miss out on! The picturesque landscapes are starkly beautiful and many cities are lit up and photogenic– it’s magical! There is so much to discover in Japan during winter. These ideas are just the start!

For more downloadable photos and videos of Japan's beautiful and exciting tourist attractions for media usage, you may visit the Japan Online Media Center (JOMC) (http://business.jnto.go.jp/). 

Japan is lovely in the fall. The weather is crisp, the leaves are turning, and the summer crowds have died down. If you are looking for a unique experience, visit Japan in the ‘ber’ months. You can go forest bathing while taking in majestic fiery foliage, or indulge in local delicacies around harvest time. Here are a few unique ideas to discover this facet of Japan.

Hitachi Seaside Park

Photo provided by JNTO (Japan National Tourism Organization)

Located near Tokyo in the city of Hitachinaka, Hitachi Seaside Park is well known for its incredible gardens. The flowers in the springtime are exquisite, but coming in the fall is a whole new experience. The Kochia plants turn red and the entire field is awash in crimson.

Autumn is one of the popular times to visit as there is also chestnut picking and you can have a taste of the pears local to the area. Hitachi Seaside Park has other amusement facilities onsite and would make an excellent day trip.

From Katsuta Station, take the East Exit Bus Stop No. 2. The bus should take 15 minutes to the West Gate of Hitachi Park or 20 minutes to the South Gate. Katsuta Station is 1 hour and 15 minutes from Shinagawa Station in Tokyo. Alternatively, if you are driving there, take the exit at Hitachi Seaside Park Interchange.

From Tokai Station, Take the Tokai Station East Exit Bus Stop No. 1. The journey should take about 30 mins. 

Daisetsuzan National Park

Photo provided by JNTO (Japan National Tourism Organization)

As one of the largest national parks in Japan, this spot in Hokkaido is the perfect place to forest bathe. Lovers of the outdoors can check out hiking trails and nature walks through this wild landscape.

Do not miss the Mikuni Pass. Bask in the sea of trees in one of the most beautiful spots in Japan. If you are looking for fall foliage, this is the perfect place to get a taste of it.

To get to Daisetsuzan National Park, the closest city is Asahikawa. A flight from Haneda or Narita should take about 90 minutes. From Sapporo Station, take the 90-minute Lilac or Kamui limited express train from Sapporo Station to Asahikawa Station. 

There are onsens or hot springs to enjoy for those who are interested in taking in the waters near Asahikawa. Asahidake Onsen is an hour and forty minutes away by Asahikawa Denkikidou bus from Asahikawa Station. Sounkyo is a charming hot spring town reachable in two-hours from Asahikawa Station via Dohoku Bus. The Kurodake Ropeway, a cable car that connects to a chair lift which provides access to numerous hiking trails in the Daisetsuzan mountain range, is also found at Sounkyo.

Alternatively, the best way to get to the park and the quaint onsens nearby is to rent a car. It should take you half an hour to get from New Chitose airport to the outskirts of the park. 

Persimmon Season

Fall is the persimmon season in Japan! Rather than just basking in the sight of red and gold foliage and exploring the wilderness, why not immerse yourself in a unique cultural experience: Pick your own Kaki–which is a kind of persimmon! Not only can you eat as many as you want, you can go home with a few bags of your own. Persimmons are excellent to add to any salad or even to eat by themselves. Some villages even have persimmon festivals. The best persimmons, according to most sources, come from Nara.

The easiest way to get to Nara is from Osaka or Kyoto. From Shin-Osaka Station, you can take the Osaka Higashi Line - Yamatoji Line to Nara Station, which is around an hour to get there. On the other hand, from Kyoto Station, take the Nara Line and you should arrive at Nara station in about 50 minutes. You may also take the train on the Kyoto line from Kintetsu Kyoto Station to Kintetsu Nara Station. 

Autumn is the perfect time to visit Japan. There are tons of activities to check out with a range of experiences from incredible views to brand-new delicacies. Go beyond the usual tourist spots of Japan and discover why people keep coming back for more. With so much to explore you can’t do it all in one trip!

Every trip to Japan is unique, there is always more to discover. While Japan has many popular tourist spots, some travelers like to go off the beaten path. If that’s you, here are some ideas to check out on your visit! This October, festivals and fandom come together for unforgettable experiences perfect for first-time and frequent visitors.

Mimaru Kyoto Kawaramachi Gojo

(Mimaru Kyoto Kawaramachi Gojo main entrance)

If you find yourself in Kyoto, consider staying at the Mimaru Kyoto Kawaramachi Gojo! This hotel has just reopened its doors and is ready to welcome you. It has excellent accommodations with all sorts of fun rooms–including a Pokemon-themed room for those who are looking for a playful experience. 

There are family rooms and single rooms all spacious and spotlessly clean. You will have your own private area while also being able to avail of community spaces. This place is an ideal accommodation if you are staying for more than just a few nights. 

(Pokemon Room)

Mimaru Kyoto Kawaramachi Gojo is located very centrally, close to Kyoto Station, so it would make an excellent home base for you to see other cities during your stay in Japan. You may leave your bags at the hotel’s luggage storage before checking in or after checking out, so you can explore Kyoto hassle-free! 

Hita City

Are you a fan of the international sensation Attack on Titan? If that’s the case, then you will love Hita City! It’s the birthplace of Hajime Isayama, the creator of the smash hit anime. 

Many spots in Hita City were featured in the story, so any fan will go wild over those locations. The whole city participates in the Attack On Titan fandom! There are bronze statues of the main characters at the foot of the Oyama Dam, and there is also a statue of the character of Levi Ackerman in front of JR Hita Station. 

Be sure to visit the Attack on Titan Museum–it features some of Isayama’s drawings and is free to enter. If you have a Japanese phone, you can even play an Attack On Titan game specially designed to be played in Hita City.

The closest hub to Hita City is Fukuoka. Hita City is an 80-minute ride via JR trains. There is also an option to use the highway bus which should take about an hour and a half.

Tokyo

Staying in Tokyo means all sorts of excellent events and activities all year round. This October, tons of unique experiences are open to you!

teamLab Planets

teamLab Planets was just recently named Asia’s Leading Tourist Attraction by the World Travel Awards. Do not miss out on this incredible visual feast. It’s so popular that its run has been extended until 2027!

Walk through different halls of wonder. There are rooms full of flowers and enchanted spaces that take on a dream-like quality. Don’t forget to bring your phone because the Instagram stories you can make in this spot will surely be a hit! 

teamLab Planets is easily accessible from Shin-Toyosu Station and about 10 minutes on foot from Toyosu Station. It’s also 5 minutes on foot from Shijo-mae Station and Toyosu Market.

Tohaku Chakan

Photo provided by JNTO (Japan National Tourism Organization)

At the Tokyo National Museum in Ueno Park, you will find the tranquil grounds of the Tohaku Chakan. It’s a slice of Japanese history with cultural shows, authentic Japanese activities, and delicacies inside the museum’s Okyokan, a traditional 270-year-old Japanese house. If you are interested in Japanese culture, this is an excellent place to visit.

The Ueno Park Station is the closest train station if you want to check out the Tohaku Chakan. While you are in the area, there are a few other attractions in Ueno Park like the zoo and the Ueno Royal Museum.

Japan Mobility Show

Are you a motorhead? Then the Japan Mobility Show (formerly known as the Tokyo Motor Show) must be on your list. It is an event showcasing everything from cars to motorsports to whatever comes next for the industry. The event has been going on since the 1950s and was paused due to the pandemic, so expect an exciting lineup this year as the autofest comes back with a vengeance!

Check it out on October 28 - November 5, 2023 at Tokyo Big Sight. There are several ways to reach Tokyo Big Sight by rail but the most convenient one is by using the Yurikamome monorail.

There is something for everyone this October in Japan! Whether you are interested in Japanese history or Pokemon, you will find something new and exciting to discover. Every visit to Japan is different and this October, there is an excellent lineup of cultural shows and expos that will make your trip unforgettable.

(photo credits from: The Best of Anime Facebook page)

It’s a big reunion! After 3 years of hiatus due to the pandemic, The Best of Anime (BOA) is coming back this 2023 with a vengeance. This year, BOA will be featuring a number of exciting events like the  Anime Idol Dance Battle, Anime Sing-Off, All-Star Cosplay Competition, and Lolita Fashion Show — complete with special guests, performances by fan-favorite cosplayers, and more. Of course, an anime event is never complete without merchandise, so don’t forget to drop by the shops and grab some anime merch and  manga or comics! 

For those unfamiliar with cosplay, the term originates from the combination of the words “costume” and “play”, and refers to activities related to dressing or acting as a character from anime, manga, or any other form of media. Cosplayers don’t simply dress as them, but spend all their time conceptualizing, creating their costume masterpieces, and building their own definition of the character. As one of the biggest cosplay events in the Philippines, cosplayers from all over the country will be gathering at BOA to show off their amazing creations and have a great time as they celebrate this art. Of course, BOA isn’t limited to just cosplayers.  The event welcomes everyone who loves cosplay, anime, manga, and Japanese culture!

With anime, manga, and cosplay having a huge cultural significance in Japan and a large impact all over the world, the Embassy of Japan in the Philippines and the Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO) Manila Office are excited to support this event. Both organizations will be at BOA to share more about the fascinating aspects of Japan and its culture, as well as provide engaging activities and informative material about Japan for event goers. 

If you love anime, manga, cosplay, and Japanese culture, then make sure not to miss The Best of Anime 2023: The Reunion!  Head on over to the SMX Convention Center at the SM Mall of Asia Complex on September 16 for an anime extravaganza!

WHAT: The Best of Anime 2023: The Reunion 

WHEN: September 16, 2023

WHERE: SMX Convention Center Manila, Pasay City

Buy tickets on-site or in advance through SM Tickets:  https://smtickets.com/events/view/11993

Regular tickets: ₱380

Premium tickets: ₱1,250

Photo provided by JNTO (Japan National Tourism Organization)

The first thing you notice about Ginza is the glitz. The area is world-renowned for its incredible shopping and entertainment. You can get a good dinner, see a show, or treat yourself to something pretty. But there is more to Ginza than the designer bags and authentic aesthetic meals, there are also tons of opportunities to snag that perfect piece of cool vintage.

This district is close to the center of Tokyo. It’s a small neighborhood near the trendy Tsukiji fish market. You might actually find yourself accidentally in the Ginza district if you aren’t paying attention. You’ll know by the sudden ornate lampposts and even pavement. Then you’ll start to notice the shops around you have gotten more and more upscale. 

Once you start to see the storefronts of luxury brands you’ll know you have arrived. Big names line the streets and the store windows are enough to overwhelm just about anyone. 

There are a few malls in Ginza. All of them are excellent options if you have come to get some serious retail therapy. Almost every store you can think of will have a spot in Ginza, even souvenirs are available, so there are tons of possibilities for pasalubong. 

Photo provided by JNTO (Japan National Tourism Organization)

If you are looking for something to do that isn’t shopping, Ginza has plenty of other attractions. Check out the super Instagrammable Art Aquarium which is a series of artistically done, aesthetically pleasing displays. There is also some traditional Kabuki Theatre playing at the Shochiku and Kabukiza. See if you can catch a show, it’s a unique Japanese experience! Hibiya Park is a draw as well if you need a break from the frenetic energy of Tokyo and want a moment of calm.

This district might be gaining popularity, but not a lot of people know the secret side of Ginza. During the day, Ginza is an explosion of people. There are tourists who come to see the sites and everyday shoppers just there to get their luxury goods and get out. But at night, all of that is transformed. Instead of a shopping district, walking through the streets is like sneaking a peek into someone’s closet. It’s a more intimate experience.

If you have the chance, go to Ginza in the middle of the night. While this might seem counterproductive if you are there to go shopping, it’s a great way to see another side of Ginza. 

Photo provided by JNTO (Japan National Tourism Organization)

At night, the lights in the stores remain open, the street lights stay on. You can take a peek at Ginza when it’s quiet and serene.

The streets are yours to explore without the passersby and the noise of the crowd. Walking through the area at night will also help you strategize for your shopping visit during the day. Without all of the distractions, you really get a feel for where you want to shop. Discover Ginza’s secrets at night so you can strategize for your morning excursion!

Even though designer stores are the first things that catch your eye, there are other draws to shopping in Ginza. There are dozens of smaller boutiques belonging to Japanese designers. There are even second-hand stores that sell gently used luxury items. Don’t miss those! There are treasures hidden in those shops that are one-of-a-kind.

Ginza is especially known as an area for second-hand designer bags. There is a wide range of variety and price range when it comes to these items, but preloved doesn’t have the same connotation in Japan, they are still considered investment items.

The vintage stores in Ginza can range from glossy multilevel shops to smaller, cozier salons where you can see all the merchandise on display at once. There are pricey boutiques and more affordable department store-type establishments. It’s a shopping paradise!

When it comes to food in Ginza, there are lots of fancy restaurants for any kind of cuisine you can imagine, from traditional Japanese to specialty coffee shops. You do not have to settle for the first place that you see. Be choosy. Look for the perfect meal because you deserve it, and there are lots of places to discover. Even unexpected spots like under a train station could have an unbelievable meal waiting for you.

You never know in Ginza.

All in all, Ginza is one of the places in the world that lives up to the hype. Not only is it a destination for shoppers, but it’s also a great place to go if you appreciate fashion, art, and beauty. It needs to be experienced at different times of the day, but no matter when you go, you’ll be glad you did.