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2/25/2026 · 8 min read · tips
Driving in Japan with a US License — IDP + Rental Guide
Americans need a Geneva-1949 International Driving Permit plus the original US license. Costs $20 at AAA, takes 15 minutes. Here's what's legal, what rentals cost, and the 4 Japan driving rules Americans break.
USADrivingCar rental
2/25/2026 · 6 min read · destinations
Nara Park in Spring – Cherry Blossoms, Friendly Deer, and Pure Magic
Your complete guide to Nara Park in spring: when to go, how to get there, the best photo spots, and a ready-to-use 1–2 day itinerary.
Kyoto & Nara
2/25/2026 · 7 min read · tips
Bringing Prescription Drugs to Japan — Yakkan Shoumei
Adderall, Vyvanse, codeine, pseudoephedrine are banned. Insulin, Ozempic, SSRIs need Yakkan Shoumei paperwork. Here's exactly what Americans must file and when to leave the bottle at home.
USAMedicationHealth
2/24/2026 · 2 min read · tips
How to Renew Your Visa & Get a My Number Card in Japan – Complete Guide
Everything US and UK expats and long-term visitors need to know about renewing their Zairyu Card and getting a My Number Card in Japan in 2026.
Tips
2/23/2026 · 5 min read · destinations
Noboribetsu Jigokudani – Hell Valley's Sulfur Clouds and Mystical Hot Springs
Your complete guide to Noboribetsu Jigokudani, Hokkaido — best times to visit, how to get there, top spots to explore, and practical tips for first-timers.
Onsen
2/22/2026 · 3 min read · tips
Japan Digital Nomad Visa
Your complete guide to Japan's Digital Nomad Visa (Designated Activities Visa) in 2026 — income thresholds, required documents, length of stay, and everything you need to know before you pack your laptop.
Tips
2/22/2026 · 5 min read · destinations
Mt. Fuji From Above – Aerial Views and Surrounding Summit Perspectives
Mt. Fuji From Above – Aerial Views and Surrounding Summit Perspectives – Your complete guide to Fuji aerial photography across Yamanashi and Shizuoka. Best seasons, how to get there, top viewpoints, and practical tips.
Fuji
2/22/2026 · 13 min read · スキー
Nozawa Onsen Ski Resort: A 3-Day Plan to Enjoy the Hot Spring Town and Japan’s Oldest Ski Village
Known as Japan’s oldest ski village, Nozawa Onsen Ski Resort combines exceptional powder snow with a historic hot spring town. The OlaChill editorial team presents a 3-day winter itinerary for making the most of Nozawa Onsen, from exploring its traditional hot springs to enjoying its outstanding cuisine.
skiing野沢温泉温泉街
2/21/2026 · 3 min read · destinations
Kyoto — The Ultimate Guide to Japan's Ancient Imperial Capital
A 3–4 day Kyoto itinerary covering Fushimi Inari, Arashiyama, Gion, Kinkaku-ji, and Nishiki Market — plus insider tips on getting around, eating well, and nailing the perfect shot.
KyotoKansaiTravel Guide
2/21/2026 · 15 min read · ハイキング
Yakushima Jomon Sugi Trekking Complete Guide: Arakawa Trailhead, 10 Hours Required, What to Wear
A complete guide to trekking to Jomon Sugi, a World Heritage site on Yakushima. Detailed information on access from the Arakawa Trailhead, the approximately 10-hour round-trip route, seasonal clothing and essential gear, and trail etiquette. Essential information for domestic travelers.
ハイキング屋久島縄文杉
2/20/2026 · 6 min read · food
American Chains in Japan — Starbucks, McDonald's + 12 More Surprises
Starbucks Japan has teriyaki chicken paninis. McDonald's sells shaka-shaka fries and a Teriyaki Burger. Here's what's different, what's identical, and which US chains skipped Japan entirely.
USAFoodChain
2/20/2026 · 5 min read · destinations
Shiretoko Peninsula – Japan's Wild UNESCO Frontier in Hokkaido
Shiretoko Peninsula – Japan's Wild UNESCO Frontier in Hokkaido – Your complete guide to Shiretoko, Hokkaido. Best times to visit, how to get there, top photo spots, and more.
Hokkaido
Frequently asked
Which region of Japan should I visit first?+
First-timers: Tokyo–Kyoto–Osaka Golden Route for 7 days. Been before? Try Hokkaido in winter or Okinawa in summer — totally different vibes.
Read more →Sakura season — Tokyo or Kyoto?+
Tokyo blooms ~5 days before Kyoto. Safest play: Tokyo in early April, then head south to Kyoto the second week for late bloomers at Arashiyama.
Read more →Best month to visit Hokkaido?+
February for Sapporo Snow Festival + Abashiri drift ice. July for Furano lavender + Biei green fields. Skip May — still cold, low scenery payoff.
Read more →How long should I stay in Osaka?+
2 days is plenty (Dotonbori, USJ, Osaka Castle). Better yet, use Osaka as a base for Kyoto/Nara/Kobe daytrips — hotels ~30% cheaper than Kyoto.
Read more →