At Japan Travel Pros, we offer a free travel planning session to help you take the next step. Whether you are still just researching or already have some plans in place, what can you expect from this session?

The true essence of Japan often lies hidden in its lesser-known corners. We've curated a journey through Japan's hidden gems – places that promise authentic experiences far from the well-trodden tourist paths.

Feeling overwhelmed? Not sure how to start planning your Japan trip? We walk you through the process of planning your journeys in Japan to fit your timing, your travel style, your pace.

From department store take-away meals and regional ekiben, to Osaka neighborhood fare and Fukuoka yatai, there are plenty of ways to enjoy casual, extremely tasty food “from the street” (and sometimes on it) in Japan.

You've seen images of tourists riding through Tokyo in colorful go-karts, dressed as familiar video game characters. This activity, often referred to as "Mario Kart" or "street karting," has gained significant popularity on social media in recent years. But why? And what’s it really all about?

Want to know where to stay in Osaka? We give the lowdown in several Osaka areas, with an honest look at what makes each one tick. Avoid the tourist traps and get a more authentic experience on your Japan trip!

Many travelers are turning to professionally planned, customized Japan travel itineraries that are tailored to their interests, preferences and pace. But why? How does it work, and how much does it cost? Find out this and more!

What’s the difference between a shrine and a temple? Why does it matter? Because it will help make your Japan travel experience more authentic and better aligned with the “real Japan" that savvy travelers are looking for.

If you're curious and open-minded, Expo 2025 Osaka can be an unforgettable experience. But you'll need a strategy. We’ll help you figure out how to enjoy the best of Expo on your Japan trip.

With so much to see, eat and experience, it’s no surprise that many first-time visitors get overwhelmed by planning a trip to Japan. From packing too much into too little time to falling into the TikTok trap, travelers often make the same missteps again and again.

In this article we're going to present both sides to you, in an honest assessment of whether you should travel on some or all of Japan’s Golden Route when visiting Japan – as well as how to make the most of your experience.

This Japan family travel guide is for you, the planner in the family. The one trying to make sure everyone from Grandpa to the youngest cousin has a great time without burning out. Find out what actually works for multigenerational Japan trips.

If that sounds like you, you’re not alone. Japan is one of the most rewarding places in the world to visit. And also one of the more overwhelming to plan. Find out why … and how we can help.

Social media makes Japan look like a travel dream. But the experiences that actually change people rarely show up in those viral posts, because they're harder to capture in a photo or 15-second video. Want something real? Of course you do. But how?

Want to eat like a local in Japan? Eat seasonal! Summers in Japan are notoriously hot & humid, but Japanese people know how to eat well in the summer. We’ll let you know what to eat when visiting Japan in the summertime.

Japan: You could totally live here, right? Maybe, or maybe not. Visiting Japan and living in Japan are two very different experiences. They’re not opposites, exactly — but the overlap is smaller than people think. Read on to find out!

Summer in Tokyo, Kyoto & Osaka means heat, humidity, festivals, fireworks and sweat — not always in that order. But there’s no longer a “low season” for travel. Just shoulder season, high season & peak times. If summer’s the time you have for travel to Japan, we’ll tell you all about it.

Why rent a car in Japan? The freedom to roam. The ability to pull off the road when you see something beautiful. The chance to reach quiet, rural places. But driving in Japan isn’t for everyone. For many travelers, it won’t even be necessary. Find out whether it’s right for you.

You're not just looking to tick off a checklist of tourist attractions. You want more than that. You want the kind of trip that stirs your soul a little. Something that leaves you telling stories years later. The kind of journey that inspires you to see the world a little differently. 

Heading to Japan? Want to eat like the locals do? What’s considered “good” food here isn’t necessarily expensive or rare. It’s often about balance, care and consistency. We’ll uncover where to go & what to look for.