While lacking the centuries-old history of wagashi, Japanese chocolate has risen to world fame in a relatively short amount of time.

Perhaps one of the most polarizing styles of ramen to ever emerge from Japan, Yokohama ramen, known as Yokohama iekei (family-style) ramen, has one of two reputations.

In Yokohama, to the south of Tokyo, lies the largest Chinatown in Japan, established nearly 150 years ago; full of shops, restaurants, and businesses bustling with activity. Visiting Yokohama Chinatown as a tourist can be a very fun experience.

Kamakura in Kanagawa was the capital and most populous city of Japan at one time. Explore this area for a taste of traditional Japan.

In Japan, New Year is way more important than Christmas and is seen as one of, if not the most important times of the year. The tradition of celebrating the New Year on January 1st started in 1873, but Japanese New Year food has been around for way longer.

Less than 100 kilometers away from Tokyo and nestled in the Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park, the town of Hakone is renowned throughout Japan for its natural beauty, views of Mount Fuji and Ashinoko, and the numerous Hakone onsen baths. Each year, thousands upon thousands of domestic and international visitors flock towards the small onsen town looking for a break from the bustling cities.