Visit any Japanese home – be it a country farmhouse or a Tokyo condo – and the first thing you’ll see inside the doorway is a collection of shoes and slippers.

So what are the rules when visiting Japan? Where can you leave your shoes on, and where do you need to take them off?

Japan has a lot going for it. From its rich cultural heritage to its stunning natural beauty, there’s plenty to explore and enjoy. And it’s way more than sushi and samurai! Dive into the local culture by visiting festivals, Stroll through bustling markets, department store food halls and local groceries, savoring the sights and smells of local, authentic Japanese food at its finest.

You might be thinking, "wait, Japan? Isn't it all about green tea?" Yes, Japan is famous for its tea. But trust me, they take their coffee just as seriously. Japan's coffee game is stronger than that espresso shot you desperately need on Monday mornings.

There are so many great places and things to experience in Japan, and yet most people are held back by either limited information or, even worse, by fear of missing out (FOMO). Which is ironic, isn’t it, considering that this fear is actually causing them to miss out!

Japan is experiencing a phenomenon that’s not uncommon in tourist destinations around the world. Some attractions and a handful of restaurants are now charging higher prices for foreign tourists – or, if you will, they are offering “lower” prices to locals.

What’s your favorite Japanese food?

If your answer is sushi or ramen, you’re not alone. Ramen and sushi are the heavy hitters of Japanese cuisine outside Japan. But how do Japanese people feel about sushi or ramen? Do they approach these foods with the same level of zeal and fervor seen beyond Japan’s borders?