春暖花開:櫻花之外的六種當季花卉

春暖花開:櫻花之外的六種當季花卉

盛開的花宣告春天的到來,在日本,沒有什麼比櫻花更能代表春天了。不過,除了這些漂亮的粉色花簇之外,日本的春天還有許多色彩繽紛的花。漫長寒冷的冬天過後,四處綻放的鮮花告訴我們春天來了,天氣也逐漸變暖,大地恢復了色彩。 

賞花的樂趣之一,就是它們轉瞬即逝的特性:花期每季只有幾天,但那短暫幾天卻難忘極了。來看看六種春天當季花卉,以及賞花最佳時機!

 

① 粉蝶花

 你有聽過粉蝶花(ネモフィラ)嗎?細小的藍色花瓣與粉白的花心,讓它們獲得「嬰兒藍眼睛」的暱稱。藍色的花在大自然中非常稀有,所以想像一下:一大片藍色花毯覆蓋地面的奇景,絕對是個不能錯過的視覺饗宴!這裡推薦兩個欣賞粉蝶花的最佳景點:

 

海之中道海濱公園

海之中道海濱公園海之中道海濱公園 | ©PhotoAC

花之丘位於九州福岡縣的海之中道海濱公園,那裡有120萬朵粉蝶花在12,000平方公尺的園區中盛開。四月中到四月底是最佳賞花期,這些嬰兒藍眼睛和蔚藍天空相映成趣,景色如夢似幻又令人平靜!

 

海之中道海濱公園
賞花期:四月中到四月底(每年時間不定)
地址:福岡県福岡市東区西戸崎18-25 811-0321
交通:搭乘JR至海之中道站,站外即是海之中道海濱公園。

 

國營常陸海濱公園 

國營常陸海濱公園國營常陸海濱公園 | ©茨城県庁

粉蝶花的最佳賞花點之一,就是茨城縣國營常陸海濱公園的見晴之丘。每到4月下旬,這裡就會變成一片夢幻景象。超過530萬朵美麗的藍色粉蝶花,彷彿將這裡變成了遙遠的奇幻世界。

 

國營常陸海濱公園
賞花期:四月中到五月初(每年時間不定)
地址:茨城県ひたちなか市真渡605-4 大沼字 312-0012
交通:從JR勝田駅搭20分鐘公車即可抵達

 

② 杜鵑花

另一種不太為人熟知的花是杜鵑花。這種花色彩鮮豔,帶有橙色和粉色調。無論是整齊修剪成圓形的灌木,還是在山坡上野生生長,這些明亮的花朵總能吸引人們的目光。

 

徳仙丈山

徳仙丈山上的野生杜鵑花徳仙丈山上的野生杜鵑花|©photoAC

日本最著名的杜鵑花觀賞地之一,位於宮城縣氣仙沼市的徳仙丈山。這座高711公尺的山上有500,000株野生杜鵑花,花開時形成一片壯麗的紅色海洋。沿著登山步道徒步觀賞杜鵑花,來回大約2.5小時。準備好身歷其境,感受滿山滿谷開遍杜鵑花的壯麗鮮紅!

 

徳仙丈山
賞花期:五月中至五月底(每年時間不定)
地址:宮城県気仙沼市赤岩好み 988-0165
交通:自JR氣仙沼站搭乘公車約45分鐘抵達。

 

鶴峯公園

鶴峯公園裡的杜鵑花灌木叢鶴峯公園裡的杜鵑花灌木叢|©photoAC

長野縣鶴峯公園坐擁30個品種、超過30,000株杜鵑花灌木,每年從五月初到中旬,這裡就會綻放紅、橙、粉紅和紫等各色華麗圓形杜鵑花灌木

這座公園是一位富有的慈善家慷慨捐贈的,村民們決定在公園裡種300株杜鵑花表達感激之情。然而,訂購時出了點小插曲:他們三根手指表示想要的數量,卻因為土地的捐贈者地位崇高,而讓人以為他們要訂的是「三節貨車的杜鵑花」。這些無法退貨的大量杜鵑花就這樣被精心種在整個鶴峯公園,讓這裡成為了一個花園天堂,讓後人都能無盡享受!

 

鶴峯公園
賞花期:五月初到五月中(每年時間不定)
地址:長野県岡谷市川岸神3-13 394-0048
交通:從JR岡谷站步行約25分鐘或搭乘計程車5分鐘。

 

③  日本紫藤

日本紫藤生長在藤蔓上,年老的藤樹需要支撐,讓它們的藤蔓下垂,形成美麗的花幕。以下是兩個欣賞夢幻淡紫色藤花幕的最佳地點:

 

河内藤園

河內藤園的日本紫藤隧道河內藤園的日本紫藤隧道|©photoAC

福岡縣的河內藤園以兩條長達100公尺的日本紫藤隧道而聞名,隧道裡有如夢似幻的紫色和白色藤花,行走其間彷彿走進印象派畫作中。欣賞日本紫藤的最佳時間大約在四月下旬到五月初。這個公園最近越來越受歡迎,所以需要提前購票;現場不提供售票服務。

 

河内藤園
賞花期:四月底到五月初(每年時間不定)
地址:福岡県北九州市八幡東区河内2-2-48 805-0045
交通:JR八幡站搭乘計程車20分鐘。

 

足利花卉公園

足利花卉公園中打光後的大紫藤樹
足利花卉公園中打光後的大紫藤樹|©photoAC

栃木縣的足利花卉公園(あしかがフラワーパーク),絕對不能錯過的焦點就是那棵巨大的老藤樹!這棵大約150歲的的老樹被譽為「世上最美的大日本紫藤」,花開時形成一片巨大的紫色花傘。花期的傍晚時分,樹下的打光讓一切更加夢幻。除了四月中旬到五月初盛開的紫藤,公園裡還有從五月初到五月底開花的白色和黃色藤花。

 

足利花卉公園
賞花期:

淡紫色藤花:四月中到四月底(每年時間不定)
深紫色藤花:四月底到五月初(每年時間不定)
白色藤花:五月初到五月中(每年時間不定)
黃色藤花:五月中到五月底(每年時間不定)

地址:栃木県足利市長瀞町607 329-4216
交通:JR足利花卉公園站對面。

 

④ 芝櫻

被稱為「粉紅福祿考」的芝櫻是一種地被植物,開花時會在地面上形成由小花鋪成的花毯。雖然名字中有「櫻」,但芝櫻其實並不是櫻花的一種,而是因為它看起來像是長在地上的粉紅櫻花(「芝」是草坪的意思)。這裡有兩個離東京不遠的地方,你可以欣賞到芝櫻的美景:

 

富士芝櫻祭

芝櫻和富士山美景芝櫻和富士山美景|©Carissa Loh

富士山是日本的象徵,又有近乎對稱的山形,只要有富士山的風景都會變得更美。每年四月中到五月底在本栖湖舉辦的富士芝櫻祭,正是抓準了四月下旬到五月初是最佳賞花時間。富士芝櫻祭有50萬株來自8個品種的芝櫻,生動的粉紅、紫色和白色點綴整個地面,形成令人驚嘆的景觀,堪比櫻花的絢爛盛景。

想了解更多富士芝櫻祭的詳情?不妨去我們的姊妹網站JR Times看看吧!

 

富士芝櫻祭
賞花期:四月底到五月初(每年時間不定)
地址:山梨県南都留郡富士河口湖町本栖212 401-0337
交通:河口湖站搭乘公車40分鐘。

 

羊山公園芝櫻之

羊山公園芝櫻之丘的芝櫻羊山公園芝櫻之丘的芝櫻|©photoAC

埼玉縣就在東京旁邊,非常適合週末一日遊。如果你欣賞芝櫻,可以去羊山公園,那裡的芝櫻之丘種了40萬株芝櫻花,為遊客打造色彩繽紛的花海。

 

羊山公園芝櫻之丘
賞花期:四月底到五月初(每年時間不定)
地址:埼玉県秩父市大宮6360 368-0023
交通:西武秩父站或御花畑站走路20分鐘。

 

⑤ 鬱金香

鬱金香在19世紀時從從歐洲引進日本,這些可愛的花朵是富山縣和新潟縣的縣花。富山縣是日本鬱金香最大生產地,而新潟縣不僅是日本第二大生產地,還是日本第一個生產鬱金香球莖的地方。讓我們來看看有哪些欣賞郁金香的最佳地點吧:

 

礪波鬱金香博覽會

礪波鬱金香博覽會的鬱金香礪波鬱金香博覽會的鬱金香|©Carissa Loh

富山縣礪波市是日本最大的金香生產地,每年四月底到五月初都會舉辦礪波金香博覽會。這個為期兩的博覽會讓遊客可以在礪波金香公園內欣賞到300種、總計300萬朵色彩繽紛的金香。你可以從金香塔的觀景台上飽覽公園全景,漫步於荷蘭式花園和水車花園,穿過金香牆,欣賞各種形狀和顏色的金香,還有更多等你來探索!

 

礪波鬱金香博覽會
賞花期:四月底到五月初(每年時間不定)
地址:富山県砺波市中村100-1 939-1382
交通:自JR  礪波站走路約15分鐘

 

五泉市鬱金香祭

五泉市鬱金香祭五泉市鬱金香祭 | ©新潟県観光協会

五泉市鬱金香祭在新瀉縣五泉市,是日本最知名的鬱金香節。鬱金香容易受到土壤病害影響,不宜在同一塊地上連續種植鬱金香,因此五泉市鬱金香祭每年都會在不同塊地舉行,大約每五年一輪。從四月中旬到四月底,你可以漫遊於150萬株各色鬱金香嬉戲,在周邊的食物和飲料攤享受節慶氛圍。

 

五泉市鬱金香祭
賞花期:四月中到四月底(每年時間不定)
地址:新潟県五泉市須摩戸一本杉 959-1601
交通:JR五泉站搭乘計程車十分鐘

 

⑥ 油菜花

走進燦爛的油菜花田中,享受那份幸福感吧!菜花,又稱為油菜花,璀璨的亮黃色讓人常常聯想到幸福與快樂。

 

長野縣飯山油菜花祭

長野縣飯山油菜花祭中油菜花盛開的景緻長野縣飯山油菜花祭中油菜花盛開的景緻|©信州飯山遊客中心

通常在四月下旬到五月初舉行的長野縣飯山油菜花祭,讓你在壯觀的雪山背景下,欣賞長野田園風光中的油菜花海洋。幸運的話,還有可能會看到美麗的粉紅櫻花與歡快的黃色油菜花同時盛開!

 

長野縣飯山油菜花祭
賞花期:四月底到五月初(每年時間不定)
地址: 長野県飯山市水穂413 389-2322
交通:JR飯山站25分鐘公車。

 

橫濱油菜花節

橫濱油菜花節的油菜花橫濱油菜花節的油菜花|©青森縣觀光聯盟

在青森縣,日本最北端的一個安靜小鎮裡,有一個全國最大的油菜花田之一,佔地128公頃——那就是橫濱(別和東京附近的橫濱市搞混了)。每年五月中旬,這裡都會舉辦橫濱菜花節。油菜花長得高又茂盛,而且節日的一大亮點就是油菜花迷宮!

 

橫濱油菜花節
賞花期:五月中到五月底(每年時間不定)
地址:青森県上北郡横浜町豆田 039-4114
交通:JR陸奥横濱站搭乘計程車約十分鐘。

 

和日本鐵道俱樂部一起迎接春天

Spring Beginnings Omiyage Snack Box


有這麼多
春天的花朵可以欣賞,還有春天的活動可以體驗,沒有比春天更適合去日本旅遊的時候了。

今年春天沒有計劃去日本旅遊嗎?別擔心,只要有日本鐵道俱樂部的「零食伴手禮盒」,就能在自家門口迎接春天!這個伴手禮盒在2024年四月獨家販售,充滿日本春天氣息,裡頭有來自東京的丸井スズキ的櫻花花林糖超人氣Saza Coffee梅子風味咖啡,還有許多令人興奮的春季主題零食。

四月三十日前訂閱,結帳時用優惠碼「SPRING14」,可享最高1000折扣。除了這個月的季節限定款訂閱後每月可享來自日本各地的美味零食。祝您春日愉快,也不要忘記隨時停下腳步,聞聞花香~

 

Read the English version of the article here!

Meet the author

Carissa Loh

Having visited all 47 prefectures of Japan, Carissa's next goal in life is to ride all of Japan's sightseeing trains and climb all its 100 Famous Mountains. Sounds like a dream? Check back in 50 years.

Hungry for more?

Get on track with our monthly offerings of exclusive snacks from all over Japan!

Find what you’re interested in

Japanese matcha powder
Sue Lynn

So Much Matcha: The Many Ways to Enjoy Matcha

One of the most recognised flavours of Japan, matcha (抹茶) is a finely ground powder made with young tea leaves, characterised by its vibrant green colour that come from its...

Carissa Loh Culture

So Much Matcha: The Many Ways to Enjoy Matcha

One of the most recognised flavours of Japan, matcha (抹茶) is a finely ground powder...

Beyond beverages, matcha is also used in many other aspects of Japanese food, including Japanese wagashi and even in staples such as buckwheat noodles and mochi.
Sue Lynn

So Much Matcha: Exploring Matcha and The Top Ma...

Matcha, Japan’s most iconic green tea that has attained global popularity. | ©PhotoAC When you think of Japan, matcha (抹茶) or maccha inevitably comes to mind as one of the...

Dawn Sim Culture

So Much Matcha: Exploring Matcha and The Top Ma...

Matcha, Japan’s most iconic green tea that has attained global popularity. | ©PhotoAC When you...

So Much Matcha: An Essential Guide to Green Tea in Japan
Sue Lynn

So Much Matcha: An Essential Guide to Green Tea...

High in anti-oxidants and packed with anti-inflammatory properties, green tea (緑茶) is one of Japan’s most popular beverages and an important part of its culture, and can be found all...

Carissa Loh Culture

So Much Matcha: An Essential Guide to Green Tea...

High in anti-oxidants and packed with anti-inflammatory properties, green tea (緑茶) is one of Japan’s...

Maker's Story: Gyokuro Tea from Kyoto by Maikonocha Honpo
Sue Lynn

Maker's Story: Gyokuro Tea from Kyoto by Maikon...

When it comes to green tea from Japan, Kyoto stands as the hub of tea culture. Originally introduced by returning Buddhist monks from their travels in China in the 9th...

Sue Lynn Food

Maker's Story: Gyokuro Tea from Kyoto by Maikon...

When it comes to green tea from Japan, Kyoto stands as the hub of tea...

Maker’s Story: Premium Matcha Products from Uji, Kyoto by Kyoeiseicha
Sue Lynn

Maker’s Story: Premium Matcha Products from Uji...

This May, JAPAN RAIL CLUB celebrates the joy that matcha brings to our lives with the special “So Much Matcha” Omiyage Snack Box. May marks the start of the traditional...

Sue Lynn Maker's Story

Maker’s Story: Premium Matcha Products from Uji...

This May, JAPAN RAIL CLUB celebrates the joy that matcha brings to our lives with...

Happy Greenery Day: 5 Must-Visit Places to Explore During Japan's Shinryoku Season
Sue Lynn

Happy Greenery Day: 5 Must-Visit Places to Expl...

Nestled amongst Japan’s vibrant festivities and cherished traditions lies a celebration rooted in reverence for nature―Midori-no-Hi (みどりの日 Greenery Day). Observed annually on 4 May, this national holiday is a testament...

Carissa Loh Culture

Happy Greenery Day: 5 Must-Visit Places to Expl...

Nestled amongst Japan’s vibrant festivities and cherished traditions lies a celebration rooted in reverence for...

Fresh From Hokkaido: A Guide to Sapporo Central Wholesale Market
Sue Lynn

Fresh From Hokkaido: A Guide to Sapporo Central...

Hokkaido is Japan’s food paradise as the northernmost part of the country is the top producer of agricultural products and seafood: the vast lands covering Japan’s second largest island and...

Wendy Ng

Fresh From Hokkaido: A Guide to Sapporo Central...

Hokkaido is Japan’s food paradise as the northernmost part of the country is the top...

Nihon Sankei (日本三景): The Three Scenic Views of Japan
Sue Lynn

Nihon Sankei (日本三景): The Three Scenic Views of ...

Japan is an island nation that has always been known for its stunningly beautiful landscapes but even amongst these, there are three locations that rise above the others and are...

Dawn Sim Nature

Nihon Sankei (日本三景): The Three Scenic Views of ...

Japan is an island nation that has always been known for its stunningly beautiful landscapes...

Japan celebrates Golden Week between April 29 to May 5
Sue Lynn

Golden Week: Exploring Japan's Week-Long Festiv...

What is Golden Week? Golden Week (ゴールデンウィーク or 黄金週間 Ogon Shukan), recognised as one of Japan's most prominent and bustling holiday periods, usually spans from late April to early May...

Dawn Sim Culture

Golden Week: Exploring Japan's Week-Long Festiv...

What is Golden Week? Golden Week (ゴールデンウィーク or 黄金週間 Ogon Shukan), recognised as one of...

春暖花開:櫻花之外的六種當季花卉
Sue Lynn

春暖花開:櫻花之外的六種當季花卉

賞花的樂趣之一,就是它們轉瞬即逝的特性:花期每季只有幾天,但那短暫幾天卻難忘極了。來看看六種春天當季花卉,以及賞花最佳時機!

Carissa Loh Nature

春暖花開:櫻花之外的六種當季花卉

賞花的樂趣之一,就是它們轉瞬即逝的特性:花期每季只有幾天,但那短暫幾天卻難忘極了。來看看六種春天當季花卉,以及賞花最佳時機!

Spring Beginnings: 6 Seasonal Flowers Other Than Sakura
Sue Lynn

Spring Beginnings: 6 Seasonal Flowers Other Tha...

Flowers herald the beginning of spring, and in Japan, no flower is more synonymous with spring than the beloved cherry blossom (桜 sakura). However, other than these pretty, pink blossoms,...

Carissa Loh Nature

Spring Beginnings: 6 Seasonal Flowers Other Tha...

Flowers herald the beginning of spring, and in Japan, no flower is more synonymous with...

Spring Beginnings: 7 Things to Do in Japan in April and May
Sue Lynn

Spring Beginnings: 7 Things to Do in Japan in A...

Cherry blossoms, or sakura, are flowers symbolic of spring, often alluded to the promise of a new beginning in many Japanese literature. | Photo by Dawn Sim   A symbol...

Dawn Sim Spring

Spring Beginnings: 7 Things to Do in Japan in A...

Cherry blossoms, or sakura, are flowers symbolic of spring, often alluded to the promise of...

Spring Beginnings: 6 Must-Try Spring Foods in Japan
Sue Lynn

Spring Beginnings: 6 Must-Try Spring Foods in J...

Spring in Japan is a time for celebration as the season marks new beginnings. Other than the mesmerising cherry blossoms painting the landscape, spring is the best season to experience...

Wendy Ng Food

Spring Beginnings: 6 Must-Try Spring Foods in J...

Spring in Japan is a time for celebration as the season marks new beginnings. Other...

Spring Beginnings: 6 Must-Visit Spring Festivals in Japan
Sue Lynn

Spring Beginnings: 6 Must-Visit Spring Festival...

Photo by cyesuta (CC BY-SA 2.0)   Spring is a season of new beginnings, bringing with it beautiful flowers, comfortable temperatures, and a time of celebration. While most travellers head...

Carissa Loh Festival

Spring Beginnings: 6 Must-Visit Spring Festival...

Photo by cyesuta (CC BY-SA 2.0)   Spring is a season of new beginnings, bringing...

Castle Day (6 April): 10 Must-Visit Castles in Japan
Sue Lynn

Castle Day (6 April): 10 Must-Visit Castles in ...

Matsue Castle in spring. | Photo by 島根県観光連盟 Japan, a nation celebrated for its rich history and enduring cultural heritage, is particularly famous for its magnificent Japanese castles (お城 oshiro)....

Carissa Loh Culture

Castle Day (6 April): 10 Must-Visit Castles in ...

Matsue Castle in spring. | Photo by 島根県観光連盟 Japan, a nation celebrated for its rich...

Sakura Karinto and Marui Suzuki
Sue Lynn

Maker’s Story: Seasonal Karinto Snacks from Tok...

April marks the official arrival of spring in Japan, and one of the cherished traditions of celebrating this season is to enjoy “ohanami” (お花見)! Ohanami means “flower-viewing”, and this is...

Sue Lynn Maker's Story

Maker’s Story: Seasonal Karinto Snacks from Tok...

April marks the official arrival of spring in Japan, and one of the cherished traditions...

A Guide to Sakura in Tohoku: Best Cherry Blossom Viewing Spots in Northeast Japan
Sue Lynn

A Guide to Sakura in Tohoku: Best Cherry Blosso...

Hirosaki Castle Park | Photo by Aomori Prefecture Cherry blossoms or sakura (桜) herald the start of springtime in Japan. Spring is the prettiest and most enjoyable season with radiant...

Wendy Ng Spring

A Guide to Sakura in Tohoku: Best Cherry Blosso...

Hirosaki Castle Park | Photo by Aomori Prefecture Cherry blossoms or sakura (桜) herald the...

A Guide to Japanese Shochu: A Tasting Tour of Shochu Distilleries in Miyazaki
Sue Lynn

A Guide to Japanese Shochu: A Tasting Tour of S...

Shochu (焼酎) is one of the most consumed alcoholic beverages in Japan and the Japanese drink more shochu than sake. Considered to be Japan's national spirit, Shochu is gaining great...

Wendy Ng

A Guide to Japanese Shochu: A Tasting Tour of S...

Shochu (焼酎) is one of the most consumed alcoholic beverages in Japan and the Japanese...

Tohoku: A Tale of Tradition through its Cultural Icons
Sue Lynn

Tohoku: A Tale of Tradition through its Cultura...

Statues of the Namahage located in Oga Peninsula. | Photo by PhotoAC Steeped in tradition, Tohoku (東北), the northeastern part of Japan comprising of six prefectures – Aomori (青森), Akita...

Dawn Sim Culture

Tohoku: A Tale of Tradition through its Cultura...

Statues of the Namahage located in Oga Peninsula. | Photo by PhotoAC Steeped in tradition,...

Tasty Tohoku Treats: 6 Must-Try Food from Northeast Japan
Sue Lynn

Tasty Tohoku Treats: 6 Must-Try Food from North...

Japan is a food paradise and beyond the major cities and well-trodden travel routes, you can unearth more culinary treasures spread throughout the country if you venture into the less...

Wendy Ng Food

Tasty Tohoku Treats: 6 Must-Try Food from North...

Japan is a food paradise and beyond the major cities and well-trodden travel routes, you...

Sakura 2024: 5 Must-Visit Cherry Blossom Spots in Tokyo for Ohanami
Sue Lynn

Sakura 2024: 5 Must-Visit Cherry Blossom Spots ...

If you have visited Tokyo between late March and early April, then chances are you have witnessed the enchanting sight of cherry blossoms (桜 sakura) in full bloom. A cherry...

Carissa Loh Culture

Sakura 2024: 5 Must-Visit Cherry Blossom Spots ...

If you have visited Tokyo between late March and early April, then chances are you...

Tasty Tohoku Treats: 6 Must-Buy Souvenirs from Tohoku
Sue Lynn

Tasty Tohoku Treats: 6 Must-Buy Souvenirs from ...

Located on the north-eastern part of mainland Japan, Tohoku (東北) is made up of six prefectures, and is a treasure trove of beautiful nature and fascinating history. It’s a wonderful...

Carissa Loh Food

Tasty Tohoku Treats: 6 Must-Buy Souvenirs from ...

Located on the north-eastern part of mainland Japan, Tohoku (東北) is made up of six...

Omiyage Day (8 March): Exploring Japan's Souvenir & Gift-Giving Culture
Sue Lynn

Omiyage Day (8 March): Exploring Japan's Souven...

Have you heard of omiyage (お土産)? If you’ve been to Japan, then you have probably seen the colourful and beautifully packaged boxes of local confectionery filling the gift shops along...

Carissa Loh Culture

Omiyage Day (8 March): Exploring Japan's Souven...

Have you heard of omiyage (お土産)? If you’ve been to Japan, then you have probably...

March Maker's Story: Hand-grilled Rice Crackers from Akita by Kanaeya
Sue Lynn

March Maker's Story: Hand-grilled Rice Crackers...

The Tohoku Region is home to some of Japan’s best untouched nature. Take Akita as an example, a prefecture where lush landscapes meet premium rice fields. Renowned for its exceptional...

Sue Lynn Maker's Story

March Maker's Story: Hand-grilled Rice Crackers...

The Tohoku Region is home to some of Japan’s best untouched nature. Take Akita as...

March Maker’s Story: Obuse Chestnut Snacks from Takachiho (Winner of JR East Omiyage Grand Prix 2023 - Koshin’etsu Area Prize)
Sue Lynn

March Maker’s Story: Obuse Chestnut Snacks from...

If you have been to Japan, you will understand the universal struggle of finding the perfect souvenir or omiyage (お土産) to bring home for your loved ones and colleagues. While...

Sue Lynn Maker's Story

March Maker’s Story: Obuse Chestnut Snacks from...

If you have been to Japan, you will understand the universal struggle of finding the...

Hina Matsuri (3 March): Japan’s Spring Festival Celebrating Girls’ Day
Sue Lynn

Hina Matsuri (3 March): Japan’s Spring Festival...

Displaying exquisitely made hina-ningyo dressed in traditional Heian attire is the main activity associated with the Hina Matsuri | ©photoAC Have you ever heard of Japan’s Hina Matsuri (雛祭)? Otherwise known...

Dawn Sim Culture

Hina Matsuri (3 March): Japan’s Spring Festival...

Displaying exquisitely made hina-ningyo dressed in traditional Heian attire is the main activity associated with the...

Inspired by Izu: Exploring Izu Peninsula Through The Eyes of Japanese Writers
Sue Lynn

Inspired by Izu: Exploring Izu Peninsula Throug...

If you are a fan of Japanese literature, take a walk in the footsteps of literary giants and look no further than Izu Peninsula (伊豆半島), which lies just about 1-2...

Dawn Sim Travel

Inspired by Izu: Exploring Izu Peninsula Throug...

If you are a fan of Japanese literature, take a walk in the footsteps of...

Mount Fuji with tea plantation in the foreground
Sue Lynn

Mount Fuji Day (23 February): 5 Ways to Enjoy J...

Standing at 3,776m above sea level, the almost perfectly symmetrical Mount Fuji (富士山 Fujisan) is Japan’s highest mountain, and has become a symbol of the country, recognised worldwide for its...

Carissa Loh Travel

Mount Fuji Day (23 February): 5 Ways to Enjoy J...

Standing at 3,776m above sea level, the almost perfectly symmetrical Mount Fuji (富士山 Fujisan) is...

Happy Cat Day (22 February): 5 Cat Islands in Japan to Meet Feline Friends
Sue Lynn

Happy Cat Day (22 February): 5 Cat Islands in J...

Are you a cat (猫 neko) lover? If you’ve been to Japan, you might have noticed how beloved cats are over there. Think maneki-neko (招き猫) cat figurines that beckon luck,...

Carissa Loh Culture

Happy Cat Day (22 February): 5 Cat Islands in J...

Are you a cat (猫 neko) lover? If you’ve been to Japan, you might have...

In the Mood for Love: Romancing on Valentine’s Day in Japan
Sue Lynn

In the Mood for Love: Romancing on Valentine’s ...

Love is in the air in February with Valentine’s Day! On 14 February, Valentine’s Day is universally celebrated across the globe where presents like chocolates, candies, and flowers are gifted...

Wendy Ng Culture

In the Mood for Love: Romancing on Valentine’s ...

Love is in the air in February with Valentine’s Day! On 14 February, Valentine’s Day...

Romance Izu in the Air: 5 Romantic Spots in the Izu Peninsula
Sue Lynn

Romance Izu in the Air: 5 Romantic Spots in the...

With so many captivating attractions, you can spend days exploring the Izu Peninsula with your loved one, but where to start? Here are our top five picks for romantic dating...

Carissa Loh Travel

Romance Izu in the Air: 5 Romantic Spots in the...

With so many captivating attractions, you can spend days exploring the Izu Peninsula with your...

A Side Trip to Saitama: Discovering “Little Edo”, Cafes, and the Railway Museum
Sue Lynn

A Side Trip to Saitama: Discovering “Little Edo...

Located just about half an hour north of Central Tokyo, Ōmiya Station (大宮駅 Ōmiya-eki) is the gateway to the neighbouring Saitama Prefecture (埼玉県). It is also a stop on more...

JAPANKURU Travel

A Side Trip to Saitama: Discovering “Little Edo...

Located just about half an hour north of Central Tokyo, Ōmiya Station (大宮駅 Ōmiya-eki) is...

February Maker’s Story: Shizuoka-grown Wasabi by Kameya Foods
Sue Lynn

February Maker’s Story: Shizuoka-grown Wasabi b...

Are you familiar with wasabi (わさび)? Made from the Wasabia japonica plant, wasabi or the Japanese horseradish is a unique spice native to Japan and is a staple in Japanese...

Sue Lynn Maker's Story

February Maker’s Story: Shizuoka-grown Wasabi b...

Are you familiar with wasabi (わさび)? Made from the Wasabia japonica plant, wasabi or the...

Winter Wonderland: 7 Snowiest Cities in Japan and Must-do Activities
Sue Lynn

Winter Wonderland: 7 Snowiest Cities in Japan a...

Winter season in Japan boasts some of its most amazing and picturesque sceneries, especially in regions lying alongside the Sea of Japan (日本海), otherwise known as Yukiguni (雪国), or Snow...

Dawn Sim Festival

Winter Wonderland: 7 Snowiest Cities in Japan a...

Winter season in Japan boasts some of its most amazing and picturesque sceneries, especially in...

Winter Wonders: 8 Winter Foods & Delicacies to Enjoy in Japan
Sue Lynn

Winter Wonders: 8 Winter Foods & Delicacies to ...

Winter in Japan is not just a season to enjoy snow activities and festivals; it’s also a time to indulge in winter cuisine as Japan is blessed with bountiful harvest...

Wendy Ng Food

Winter Wonders: 8 Winter Foods & Delicacies to ...

Winter in Japan is not just a season to enjoy snow activities and festivals; it’s...

Nuts About Chiba! Exploring Chiba, Peanuts, and Setsubun Culture
Sue Lynn

Nuts About Chiba! Exploring Chiba, Peanuts, and...

Have you been to Chiba Prefecture (千葉県)? Located in the Kanto Region and neighbouring Tokyo on its east, perhaps, unknowingly, you have already stepped foot into Chiba Prefecture. If you...

Carissa Loh Culture

Nuts About Chiba! Exploring Chiba, Peanuts, and...

Have you been to Chiba Prefecture (千葉県)? Located in the Kanto Region and neighbouring Tokyo...

More Than Just Disneyland! Exploring Hidden Gems in Every Corner of Chiba
Sue Lynn

More Than Just Disneyland! Exploring Hidden Gem...

Looking for a short getaway from the bustling crowds of Tokyo? Look no further than the prefecture of Chiba (千葉県). Contrary to the popular belief that “There is nothing much...

Dawn Sim Travel

More Than Just Disneyland! Exploring Hidden Gem...

Looking for a short getaway from the bustling crowds of Tokyo? Look no further than...

Happy Strawberry Day: 5 Must-Try Varieties of Strawberries in Japan
Sue Lynn

Happy Strawberry Day: 5 Must-Try Varieties of S...

Did you know that 15 January is Strawberry Day (イチゴの日 Ichigo-no-hi) in Japan? It comes from a word play on the date (“ichi” = one and “go” = five) and...

Carissa Loh Food

Happy Strawberry Day: 5 Must-Try Varieties of S...

Did you know that 15 January is Strawberry Day (イチゴの日 Ichigo-no-hi) in Japan? It comes...

Ichigo Ichie: Starting the New Year by Embracing Moments in Life
Sue Lynn

Ichigo Ichie: Starting the New Year by Embracin...

As the New Year’s celebrations and confetti settles, we enter the new year with new hopes and wishes. The start of the new year marks a good checkpoint in our...

Wendy Ng Culture

Ichigo Ichie: Starting the New Year by Embracin...

As the New Year’s celebrations and confetti settles, we enter the new year with new...

Seijin no Hi: Exploring Japan’s Coming-of-Age Day
Sue Lynn

Seijin no Hi: Exploring Japan’s Coming-of-Age Day

Seijin-no-Hi (成人の日) or Coming-of-Age Day is an important Japanese National Holiday, observed on the second Monday of January each year. The day serves as a rite of passage, celebrating and...

Carissa Loh Culture

Seijin no Hi: Exploring Japan’s Coming-of-Age Day

Seijin-no-Hi (成人の日) or Coming-of-Age Day is an important Japanese National Holiday, observed on the second...

January Maker’s Story: Chocolates with a Japanese Twist from Edogoshiya
Sue Lynn

January Maker’s Story: Chocolates with a Japane...

"What is a snack that would pair well with Japanese tea and is well-loved by all in Japan?", the makers of Edogoshiya wondered and found themselves in the world of...

Sue Lynn Maker's Story

January Maker’s Story: Chocolates with a Japane...

"What is a snack that would pair well with Japanese tea and is well-loved by...

The Wonders of Citrus: 5 Varieties of Citruses Found in Japan
Sue Lynn

The Wonders of Citrus: 5 Varieties of Citruses ...

If you have been to Japan during the colder months between December to February, you will notice the sudden abundance in citruses such as yuzu (柚子・ゆず) and mikan (蜜柑・みかん mandarin...

Sue Lynn Food

The Wonders of Citrus: 5 Varieties of Citruses ...

If you have been to Japan during the colder months between December to February, you...

Ake Ome! Exploring the New Year Celebrations in Japan
Sue Lynn

Ake Ome! Exploring the New Year Celebrations in...

How is the New Year celebrated in Japan?  Let’s take a look at some of the traditions that have been influenced by Shinto, Buddhism, and modern beliefs!

Carissa Loh Culture

Ake Ome! Exploring the New Year Celebrations in...

How is the New Year celebrated in Japan?  Let’s take a look at some of...

Merikuri! Christmas in Japan: Exploring Traditions Old and New
Sue Lynn

Merikuri! Christmas in Japan: Exploring Traditi...

Said to be the most wonderful time of the year, Christmas is a holiday celebrated around the world, known as a time to get together with family and friends, and a...

Carissa Loh Festival

Merikuri! Christmas in Japan: Exploring Traditi...

Said to be the most wonderful time of the year, Christmas is a holiday celebrated around...

5 Must-Visit Ski Resorts To Visit Outside of Hokkaido: Exploring Japan's Best Slopes
Sue Lynn

5 Must-Visit Ski Resorts To Visit Outside of Ho...

Have you ever gone skiing or snowboarding in Japan? In Japan, although skiing as a means of transportation had been around for centuries in communities living in high snowfall areas,...

Carissa Loh Winter

5 Must-Visit Ski Resorts To Visit Outside of Ho...

Have you ever gone skiing or snowboarding in Japan? In Japan, although skiing as a...

December Maker's Story: Arida Mikan from Sowa Kajuen
Sue Lynn

December Maker's Story: Arida Mikan from Sowa K...

December is the month of citrus, including mikan or mandarin oranges from Arida! We caught up with Mr. Ueyama (上山) from Sowa Kajuen from Arida City, Wakayama Prefecture to find...

Sue Lynn Maker's Story

December Maker's Story: Arida Mikan from Sowa K...

December is the month of citrus, including mikan or mandarin oranges from Arida! We caught...

December Maker’s Story: Yuzu from Umaji Village in Kochi
Sue Lynn

December Maker’s Story: Yuzu from Umaji Village...

Umaji Village is known as the Village of Yuzu! We had a chat with Mr. Iwasada (岩貞) of Umaji Village Agricultural Co-operative, to find out more about the village of...

Sue Lynn Maker's Story

December Maker’s Story: Yuzu from Umaji Village...

Umaji Village is known as the Village of Yuzu! We had a chat with Mr....

The Star of Japanese Vineyards: Understanding the Appeal of Kyoho Grapes
Sue Lynn

The Star of Japanese Vineyards: Understanding t...

Where do Kyoho Grapes originate from? Japan's love for perfection and uniqueness has led to some incredible creations, and their grapes are no exception. Enter Kyoho grapes (巨峰), star-studded grapes...

Snack Lover Autumn

The Star of Japanese Vineyards: Understanding t...

Where do Kyoho Grapes originate from? Japan's love for perfection and uniqueness has led to...

A Savoury and Sweet Guide to Kirimochi: Exploring Japan's Versatile Rice Cake
Sue Lynn

A Savoury and Sweet Guide to Kirimochi: Explori...

If you're intrigued by Japan’s unique food culture, you've likely heard about mochi (餅), a delightful culinary treat that's steeped in tradition and versatility. This versatile rice cake has a...

Snack Lover Food

A Savoury and Sweet Guide to Kirimochi: Explori...

If you're intrigued by Japan’s unique food culture, you've likely heard about mochi (餅), a...

A Celebration of Colour and Cuisine: Exploring Five of Japan’s Most Beautiful Autumn Destinations
Sue Lynn

A Celebration of Colour and Cuisine: Exploring ...

Unveiling Japan's Autumn Magic There's something undeniably magical about autumn in Japan. As the scorching summer retreats, it gives way to the cooler, softer, and gentler autumn season. The transformation...

Sue Lynn Autumn

A Celebration of Colour and Cuisine: Exploring ...

Unveiling Japan's Autumn Magic There's something undeniably magical about autumn in Japan. As the scorching...