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How to Take a Bath in Japan: A Step-by-Step Onsen Guide for Beginners
Konnichiwa! I’m Kaori. If there is one topic that makes my friends from abroad the most nervous about visiting Japan, it is undoubtedly the Onsen (hot spring). I understand why. In most of the world, bathing is a private act. The idea of stripping down completely naked in front of strangers feels vulnerable, perhaps even…
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2 Weeks in Japan: A Complete Guide to City Lights & Ancient Tradition
Konnichiwa! I’m Kaori, your local friend in Tokyo. If you are reading this, you are probably standing at the edge of a great adventure. Planning a trip to Japan can feel overwhelming. I see it all the time with my friends from abroad. They have 50 tabs open, worrying about train passes, language barriers, and…
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12 Common Tourist Mistakes in Japan: What Locals Wish You Knew (2026 Guide)
Konnichiwa! I’m Kaori. Born in the quiet, temple-filled streets of Kyoto and now navigating the neon rush of Tokyo, I’ve spent my life bridging these two worlds. I started JapanPaths.com to help travelers like you look past the postcards and find the real, breathing Japan. Japan is a country of unwritten rules. We call it…
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15 Free Things to Do in Tokyo: A Comprehensive Guide to Budget-Friendly Adventures
Tokyo’s often called expensive, but honestly, some of the best experiences here are totally free. You can wander through historic shrines, stroll in lush parks, poke around unique neighborhoods, and soak up epic city views—all without spending a single yen. The trick is knowing where to look, dodging the usual touristy stuff. I put this…
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Where to Stay in Tokyo: Best Neighborhoods for Every Budget and Travel Style
Tokyo can feel overwhelming when you’re trying to figure out where to book your stay. The city is massive, with distinct neighborhoods that each offer something different. Some areas work well for budget travelers, while others cater to people looking for more comfort. I’ve put together this guide to help you find the right neighborhood…
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Crowd-Free Secret Sakura Spots in Tokyo: 5 Hidden Locations for Peaceful Cherry Blossom Viewing
Cherry blossom season in Tokyo draws millions of visitors to famous parks and gardens. These popular spots offer beautiful views, but the crowds can really take away from the experience. Finding a quiet place to appreciate the sakura feels almost impossible during peak bloom time. But there are still a few secret corners left. I’ve…
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Japan Cherry Blossom Forecast 2026: When & Where to Go for Peak Viewing
Cherry blossom season in Japan is honestly one of the best things you can see. The pink and white flowers only last a short time each spring, drawing millions of visitors from all over. Planning your trip around the bloom dates gives you a much better chance of seeing the flowers at their peak. In…
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Private Onsen: 10 Best Ryokans with Private Onsen and Mt. Fuji Views for an Unforgettable Japanese Experience
Mount Fuji stands as one of Japan’s most recognizable landmarks. Staying at a ryokan with a private onsen nearby? That’s a unique way to experience it. A private onsen is your own hot spring bath, so you can relax without sharing the space. Combine this with views of Mount Fuji and you’ve got something truly…
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Kinosaki Onsen Guide: Everything You Need to Know About Japan’s Most Charming Hot Spring Town
Kinosaki Onsen is a historic hot spring town tucked away in northern Hyogo Prefecture. For over 1,300 years, it’s welcomed travelers seeking relaxation and a taste of old Japan. The town sits along a willow-lined river, with traditional wooden buildings that earned it a spot in the Michelin Green Guide Japan. What makes Kinosaki special…
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10 Days in Japan: The Ultimate Golden Route Itinerary for First-Time Travelers
Japan gives first-time visitors an amazing mix of buzzing cities, ancient temples, and beautiful scenery. The Golden Route links Tokyo, Hakone, Nagoya, Kyoto, and Osaka in one trip, so you get a real taste of the country. In just ten days, you’ll wander from busy shopping streets to peaceful bamboo forests. This itinerary takes you…