Our choices for the top Shinto shrines to ring in the New Year in Japan.
Dec 26, 2023 • Subscribe
More like this


Temples and Shrines Devoted to Mythical Creatures in Japan
Exploring sacred places in Japan for ghost, demons and tricksters.


15 Matchmaking Shrines in Tokyo to Visit for Love
Have you ever prayed for love? Did it work? If not, here's a list of matchmaking shrines in Tokyo for love.


The Best Theme Parks For Christmas In Japan
Looking for something to do this holiday season? Here are the best theme parks to celebrate Christmas in Japan!


The Best Places For Extended Stays In Japan
Staying in Japan for more than a week? Here are some options for longer-term stays that are both cozy and affordable.


What Is The Best Payment App For Foreigners in Japan?
Are you looking for the beat payment app for foreigners in Japan? Here are some of the most popular apps and their features.


10 Best Train Apps In Japan
Need to get somewhere by train? Want to know information about stations or delays? We’ve got you covered with the best train apps in Japan.


10 Best Fall Foods In Japan
Here are fall foods in Japan that will keep you coming back for more as the hot summer weather finally dwindles away.


My 5 Best Meals in Japan
While I grew up being a picky eater and I still have my reservations occasionally, I have been called a ‘foodie’ on multiple occasions. It wasn’t until it…


Banking Made Easy: Why Suruga Bank is Best for Foreigners in Japan
Banking in Japan as a foreigner can be a pain, but with Suruga Bank, it doesn’t have to be.


Prepaid Cards in Japan: Best Options for Expats & How to Use Them
Discover the best prepaid cards in Japan for expats and travelers. Compare IC cards, virtual prepaid options and learn how to get one.


The Best Combini Protein Bars in Japan
Need a quick snack in Japan while also working on your muscle tone? Here are the best protein bars you can find at most convenience stores.


What’s The Best Internet Provider in Japan?
Discover the best internet provider in Japan for 2025. Compare costs, contracts and top picks for expats, tourists, and residents.


Best Places to Study Japanese in Japan
Where is the best place to study Japanese in Japan? Find out in this week's GaijinPot video.


Shopping for Wedding Rings in Japan
Ready to tie the knot? Here's a brief overview of what you need to know when you go wedding rings shopping in Japan.


Shopping for Children’s Clothes in Japan
Shopping in Japan for all ages is great fun once you know your way around the different sizing and cultural expectations. Read on for a guide based on…


Words for Spring Cleaning in Japan
Discover essential tips and vocabulary for spring cleaning in Japan. Learn how to talk about tackle deep cleaning, decluttering, and more.


The Best Way to Get Around in Japan
You're coming to Japan! But how do you get from point A to point B? Here's a guide to the best ways to get around the country.


Government Benefits for Having Children in Japan
With financial incentives, free services and benefits on the horizon, parents with children are covered from birth to high school in Japan.


What’s (not) hot for Japan in 2025
Planning your 2025 Japan trip? Here are our specialists' favourite, lesser known places that offer a slice of every day local life, from south to north Japan.


Super Hot Jobs in Japan for August
Tech and travel, kitchens and clinical studies, localization and security—we’ve definitely got you covered this month!


10 Side Jobs for Foreigners in Japan
Looking to make some extra money outside your day job? Here are some side jobs for foreigners you can try in Japan.


Practical Advice for Staying Connected in Japan
A reliable mobile connection is vital for staying connected in Japan. Learn how Mobal can help with these practical tips.


31 Short Stories for January in Japan
In honor of January in Japan, RJL presents a list of 31 translated Japanese short stories you can read on-line for free, listed alphabetically by author. 2025 marks…


Hiking in Japan: 8 of the best hiking trails
Trying to decide which of Japan's hiking routes to rove on your next trip? Read our guide to the best trails, as recommended by our team.


Is Osaka the Best Place to Live in Japan?
Is Osaka the best place to live in Japan? Even more than Tokyo? Find out what makes the Kansai capital such a great place to live.


Is Nagoya the Best Place to Live in Japan?
Here's why Nagoya is the best place to live in Japan. It offers the perfect blend of big-city attractions and small-city prices.


The Best Onsen to Check Out While in Japan
Whether you're traveling to Japan or planning a trip in-country, these onsen are bucket list experiences for everyone.
Hiking in Japan: 8 of the best hiking trails
Trying to decide which of Japan's hiking routes to rove on your next trip? Read our guide to the best trails, as recommended by our team.


The Best Observation Decks and Elevated Views in Japan
What better way to get the lay of the land of the rising sun than with a trip to the best observation decks and elevated views in Japan?


Is Fukuoka the Best Place to Live in Japan?
Looking to live somewhere new? Try Fukuoka Prefecture, the best place to live in Japan.


Best Outdoor Date Ideas for Valentine’s in Tokyo
Looking for a different date spot this winter? Check out our list of 10 great outdoor date ideas in Tokyo and let your love keep you warm.


The 10 Best Spots for Sakura in Saitama
Discover the enchanting beauty of sakura in Saitama with our guide to the prefecture's top cherry blossom spots.


Graduate Schools in Japan for English-Speaking Students
Discover the best graduate schools in Japan for English-speaking students. Earn a degree in Japan without Japanese fluency!


Otoshidama: New Year’s Money for Kids in Japan
Learn about one of the most delightful (and eagerly anticipated) New Year’s traditions: Otoshidama, money for kids in Japan.


Tutoring Classes for International School Students in Japan
Make the most of your child’s summer break this year with these premium tutoring classes in Japan. Summer success starts here!


10 Simple Tips For Saving Money in Japan
Here are some quick and easy ways you can live in Japan on a budget.


A Checklist For Quitting Your Job In Japan
Quitting your job in Japan is scary, but with this checklist, you can make it as smooth as possible, positioning yourself for future success.


Fruit Picking in Japan for Autumn and Winter
Head outdoors this autumn and winter and taste the best of what both seasons have to offer! Here's where you can go fruit picking in Japan.


8 Online Shops for Vegan Food in Japan
Whether you’re an animal lover, want to help your waistline or the environment, here are great choices for tasty vegan food sent to your doorstep.


Useful Japanese for Getting a Haircut in Japan
Planning on getting a haircut in Japan? Here are some essential Japanese words and phrases for a seamless trip to the salon.


Fun Shibuya Halloween Alternatives in Japan for 2023
With Shibuya out of the Halloween party sites this year, the parades, theme parks and parties listed below will be your new go-to for a night of mid-fall…
Otaku and the Struggle for Imagination in Japan
Recently read:Galbraith, Patrick W.Otaku and the Struggle for Imagination in JapanDurham: Duke University Press, 2019If you have any interest in Japanese fan culture this work is a must…


10 Date Ideas for Valentine’s Day in Japan
Whether celebrating Valentine’s Day, an anniversary or on your first date, here are great ideas for dates in Japan.


School Entrance Ceremony in Japan: Preparation For Parents
Wondering what to expect at your child’s nyuugakushiki? Read on to learn about the school entrance ceremony in Japan!


4 Tips for Surviving Life in Rural Japan
What is life in Japan's countryside like? How can you deal with the unique challenges of country living if you’re a teacher? Here's what I've learned from my…


Wordsmiths Wanted for Gaming and Translation: Jobs for June in Japan
Kick off a career in videogames and translation with these Jobs for June in Japan.


Falling for Fukui: A Trip For History and Culture In Japan
Visit Fukui, the perfect trip for Japanese history, culture and food. Here is an itinerary that makes Fukui one of my favorite places.


Pet-Friendly Apartments: Honesty is the Best Policy in Japan
Be a responsible pet owner in Japan by choosing pet-friendly apartments, ensuring a happy home for you and your furry friend while respecting the rules and saving money…


How to Find the Best Part-Time Jobs in Japan
Part-time work in Japan is easier to find than you think—even when it comes to part-time jobs for “foreigners.”