![A whole goya (bitter melon) and slices. It's green and very bumpy.](https://blog.sakura.co/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/goya-thumbnail.webp)
Goya: The Bitter Melon from Okinawa You Should Try!
Goya, known as bitter melon, is a unique and fascinating fruit from Okinawa, Japan. Its bumpy green skin and distinct bitter taste might make you hesitate, but don’t let that stop you! This unusual melon offers much, from impressive health benefits to versatile culinary uses. Let us dive into the delicious world of melon and…
![A plate of manju buns.](https://blog.sakura.co/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/manju-thumbnail.webp)
Manju: The Ultimate Sweet Bun!
Wagashi, or traditional Japanese confections, is famous for its intricate shapes that catch the eye, vibrant colors, and representation of natural beauty. Manju is also one of the most popular wagashi types found in Japan. It is loved for its traditional flavors, variety of types and strong cultural significance in Japanese wagashi. Let’s explore more…
![A moon rabbit against a red full moon.](https://blog.sakura.co/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/moon-rabbit-thumbnail.webp)
Moon Rabbit: The Amazing Legend of the Season!
The moon rabbit is a beloved figure in Japanese folklore that has captivated people’s imaginations for centuries.
![A luxury train ride in Japan.](https://blog.sakura.co/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/luxury-train-ride-japan-thumbnail.webp)
Luxury Train Ride: Four Breathtaking Trips Across Japan!
Japan offers a unique way to explore its breathtaking landscapes, rich cultural heritage and exceptional service: the luxury train ride! Here are four fantastic train rides to enjoy across Japan!
![A torii gate in Hakone.](https://blog.sakura.co/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/love-shrine-thumbnail.png)
Hakone Shrine and Other Beautiful Love Shrines To See!
With their picturesque setting and cultural importance, love shrines like Hakone Shrine symbolize hope and devotion for those seeking romantic blessings in Japan.
![A taiko drummer at one of the Okinawa festivals.](https://blog.sakura.co/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/okinawa-festivals-thumbnail.png)
The Okinawa Festival: Five Great Events to Discover!
Okinawa festivals will surely please people of all ages, as there’s something to suit every taste and preference. The island is packed with must-see events throughout the year, from centuries-old festivals to seasonal festivitie!
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Sakuraco March 2023 Reviewer Contest Winners Announced
Thank you to everyone who has submitted the review! Hi Sakuraco family! Get ready to jump for joy because we’ve got some incredible news to share with you! As the summer season approached, we were blown away by the sheer number of fantastic entries we received for our latest contest. We had a tough time…
![A white maneki neko with small statues.](https://blog.sakura.co/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/sakuraco_maneki-neko-new-thumbnail.png)
Maneki Neko: The Wonderful Legendary Lucky Cat!
The Maneki Neko is a traditional Japanese figurine that has become a beloved and famous symbol of good fortune and prosperity. This lucky talisman is common in businesses and homes throughout Japan and other parts of Asia.
![A castle during spring in Japan.](https://blog.sakura.co/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/sakuraco_shunbun-no-hi-thumbnail.png)
Spring in Japan: The Best Shunbun no Hi
Spring in Japan begins on March 21st. It is the Vernal Equinox, or Shunbun no Hi in Japanese.
![](https://blog.sakura.co/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/December-box-sc.png)
Sakuraco November 2022 Reviewer Contest Winners Announced
Thank you to everyone who has submitted the review! Hi Sakuraco family! Winter is really setting in at this point! How have you been greeting November thus far? I pray the holidays found you surrounded by loved ones. We’re revealing the November 2022 reviewer winners right now, please check it out! Congratulations to all the…
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Sakuraco October 2022 Reviewer Contest Winners Announced
Thank you to everyone who has submitted the review! Hi Sakuraco family! How do you like October so far? We hope that October brings you a lot of freshness and fulfillment! To top it off, we’d like to reveal the reviewer winners for October 2022! Congratulations to all the winners! Our team will get in…
![A gorgeous shot of a fireworks display in Yokohama.](https://blog.sakura.co/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/sakuraco_yokohama-festivals-thumbnail.png)
Five Must-See Festivals in Yokohama
When we talk about Japanese festivals, the Yokohama festivals should come to mind for avid fans of Japanese culture. Let’s talk more about the five must-see festivals in Yokohama.