The ocean weed, aonori, may be simple in appearance, but its distinct properties set it apart from other “sea vegetables”. Unlike more bland ocean plants, its unique color, taste, smell, and texture are used to add flavor to foods. This makes it different from other seaweeds like wakame, which lack a strong flavor and aroma. 

Kyoto and Tokyo are famous for their geisha. But did you know that geisha also exist outside of these two areas? They cultivated their regional customs and styles far from the imperial capital. One such type of performer was the geigi of Niigata City. 

In spring, young bamboo shoots, also called takenoko, push through the soil, ready to be picked. Let’s look at how bamboo shoots fit into Japanese cooking and why they’re such a beloved ingredient!

Hakata Ward sits along the eastern edge of Fukuoka City, facing the sea. Hakata’s coastal location has long been a key gateway for trade and cultural exchange in Japan’s history. It remains a central hub of the Kyushu region’s politics, economy, and tradition.

Hello, Sakuraco community! We hope you’re doing well. Here are the winners of the April 2025 Reviewer Contest!

Visiting these cities can help you understand more deeply how the past and present come together in everyday life. So let’s explore five of the most beloved cities on this fantastic island, starting from Kitakyushu!

Unlike many crowded tourist spots, Kyushu’s landscapes and towns often remain quiet and untouched, offering a more profound sense of place. Here, you can walk through ancient forests, visit historical shrines, and enjoy local festivals that reflect centuries of tradition. Let’s explore some of the most well-known places on this beautiful island, starting with Yakushima!

In this video, Jun from Jun’s Kitchen—a YouTube channel beloved for its calming, beautifully filmed cooking videos featuring traditional Japanese recipes and his cats—shares a delightful recipe for making taiyaki, the iconic fish-shaped cake filled with sweet red bean paste. T

Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or just curious about Japanese life, Osaka has something special for everyone. Here’s how to truly enjoy your time in Osaka Japan!

If you’ve ever felt the emotional pull of a song that tugs at your heartstrings, then you’ve probably experienced the magic of enka. This unique genre of Japanese music, born in the 1950s, is known for its deep emotional resonance, soulful ballads, and beautiful blend of traditional and modern influences.

With an exceedingly turbulent history, it’s fantastic that Osaka Castle is still standing today, making it an absolute must-see for anyone visiting the city of Osaka.

Traveling abroad, despite issues like overtourism, remains an exciting adventure. Visiting Japan is a dream for many, particularly fans of anime, video games, history, and landscapes. However, the rising number of tourists has caused some locals to be concerned. Let’s look at this phenomenon and how it affects people today.