The Consulate General of Japan is open Monday to Friday, excluding holidays. Appointment hours for consular services are from 9:30 AM to 4:00 PM. Visa drop-off is available from 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM. For questions, call 202-238-6800. In contrast, the Japan Consulate in Honolulu has slightly varied hours. … Read more

Importing a camera from Japan usually incurs no duties under the U.S.-Japan Free Trade Agreement for items valued under $800. However, sales tax and use tax may apply. Customs brokerage fees can range from $50 to $500. Expect about a 5% customs duty rate based on the camera type. Check your state’s taxes for extra … Read more

In Japan, the handles you hold onto in trains are called “tsurikawa.” The word means “hang” (tsuri) and “leather” (kawa). These handles support passengers while traveling. Another term, “tsuriwa,” meaning “ring,” is also used. Initially, tsurikawa were made of leather, highlighting the history of Japan’s public transportation system. Etiquette surrounding handles is also important. Commuters … Read more

Japan’s geographic coordinates are approximately 36.2048° N latitude and 138.2529° E longitude. Nii-jima, part of the Izu Islands, has beautiful beaches. One notable beach near Iwaki has coordinates 37.0504° N latitude and 140.8877° E longitude. These details help locate some of Japan’s scenic coastal areas. Maps provide visual guidance for exploring these coastal gems. They … Read more

In Japan, train stations use specific sounds to assist the visually impaired. The ding-dongs signal “ticket gates,” while bird chirping alerts passengers to “stairs to the platform.” Additional bird calls may also enhance navigation. This sound system ensures accessibility and safety for all travelers at the stations. Benefits of bird noises extend beyond mere aesthetic … Read more

Japan features beautiful places like Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, Itsukushima Shrine, and Mount Fuji. Visit the lavender fields in Furano and the scenic beaches in Okinawa. Don’t miss the historic Shirakawa-go, the elegant Himeji Castle, and serene Lake Kussharo. These sites showcase Japan’s rich culture and stunning nature, ensuring memorable experiences for visitors. In addition, the … Read more

Most men in Japan use different backpacks, with Uniqlo Moon Bags being a favorite. These bags offer comfort and versatility. The Japanese word for bag is “kaban.” Popular styles include messenger bags for school and hip hop, while rucksacks are common for daily use. Theft prevention is important in urban areas. Each backpack typically features … Read more

Marriott Bonvoy hotels in Japan provide options for leisure and business travelers. Key cities include Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka. Notable brands are The Ritz-Carlton, The Westin, and Courtyard. Guests can enjoy various amenities, discover local attractions, or relax in comfortable rooms. Book your stay today! In Kyoto, the Kyoto Marriott Hotel showcases traditional Japanese aesthetics … Read more

Love hotels in Japan are unique boutique hotels designed for short stays. They offer privacy and intimacy for couples. Guests can book rooms at hourly rates, making them perfect for brief romantic encounters. These establishments feature clean, stylish rooms that enhance the experience for visitors seeking a private retreat. Amenities commonly found in love hotels … Read more

In Japan, gifts show respect and thoughtfulness. Common gifts include food, drinks, and traditional items. Key occasions for gifts are weddings, graduations, and Ochugen. Gifts often come in a shugi bukuro envelope. Omiyage are souvenirs from trips, and Okaeshi are thank-you gifts, usually worth half the original gift’s value. Timing plays a crucial role in … Read more