Tokyo and Surroundings

Search Through Our Articles

  • Must-See
  • The Latest
  • LIVE Report
  • Hot Deals
  • In-depth
  • How to

Cherry Blossoms and More: Why Shinjuku Gyoen Should Be on Your Tokyo Itinerary

Shinjuku Parks

Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden (新宿御苑) is a natural oasis in the heart of Shinjuku! Immerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty of cherry blossoms in the spring, the stunning autumn foliage, and a variety of flora all year round. You'll feel like you've stepped into a whole new world! Let's explore how to get to this amazing garden and what makes it so special.

Best Things to Do in Tokyo in January 2024: Events and Festivals – Kickstart the Year with Festive Fun!

Harajuku Winter

January is brimming with traditional Japanese New Year events such as the first sunrise, shrine visits, and New Year sales, not to mention mochitsuki (rice pounding) festivals. In this article, we'll introduce you to the time-honored traditions and events happening in and around Tokyo in January. Keep an eye out for the historic flea market bustling with around 200,000 visitors on the first day, as well as events featuring handmade goods for sale.

Learn the Art of Flower Arrangement at Ohara School of Ikebana

Harajuku Other Traditional Arts

Ikebana, flower arrangement, is one of Japan’s most treasured art forms, a time-honored tradition that continues to be relevant even in today’s modern society. Beautifully arranged flowers and plants have permeated Japanese culture in a way that is seldom found in others. The Ohara School of Ikebana has played a major part in keeping the tradition alive, through its many schools in Japan, as well as its 59 chapters abroad, with over 300,000 members worldwide. The beauty of the Ohara School is not only in its floral arrangements, but its ability to share the culture of ikebana with the world. I visited the Ohara Center of Tokyo to try an ikebana class to learn more about this traditional art form.

Top 15 Hakone Onsen Accommodations for a Comfortable and Blissful Stay

Hakone / Odawara Ryokan

Hakone Onsen is one of Japan's most well-known hot spring destinations, and it's just a short 80-minute ride from Shinjuku on the Odakyu Romancecar express train, making it easily accessible. Hakone has long been a favorite spot for travelers in Japan, offering not only the unique Hakone Ju-nana-yu (Hakone's Seventeen Hot Spring Sources) but also the changing beauty of each season, including cherry blossoms in spring, hydrangeas in summer, vibrant autumn foliage, and pristine winter snowscapes. LIVE JAPAN has handpicked 15 hot spring facilities in Hakone to enhance your journey, creating unique memories filled with soaking in hot springs, admiring picturesque landscapes, and savoring delicious cuisine! Image sources: Original and Booking.com (Hakone Lake Ashinoko Hanaori Ryokan / Hotel Green Plaza Hakone / Hakone Tent Onsen Ryokan / Rakuten STAY VILLA Hakone Sengokuhara)

Hakone Kinnotake Tonosawa: One of the Top Ryokan in Japan!

Hakone / Odawara Ryokan

Hakone stands out as a cherished getaway, showcasing the essence of Japan's natural beauty, ambiance, cultural richness, and culinary delights. Its fame, especially for the hot spring resorts, resonates with both locals and visitors, attributed to its convenient proximity to the urban core. A standout place to stay in Hakone is Kinnotake Tonosawa, nestled in the Tonosawa region close to Hakone-Yumoto Station. This tranquil inn offers a serene haven for those in search of a tranquil escape. In this piece, two experienced guides relay their personal reflections and insights from their stay at this hotel. The contributors are Chia-chi, a team member of Live Japan from Taiwan, who cherishes serene getaways from everyday hustle, and Miyu Shimada, a native of Japan, committed to exploring the globe throughout her life.

10 Places to See Plum Blossoms in Tokyo and Beyond (& When to See Them in 2024)

Tokyo Station Spring

In Japan, while cherry blossoms often capture the most attention, there's another equally stunning pink flower: the plum blossom. The emergence of plum blossoms marks one of the earliest and most delightful signs of spring in Japan. Blooming in February, these blossoms serve as a splendid precursor to the cherry and other spring flowers set to follow. Known as 'baika' in Japanese, plum blossoms can easily be mistaken for sakura. Yet, there are distinct differences that set these two exquisite flowers apart. Join us as we explore the best times and places to witness the plum blossoms in and around Tokyo!

Choice Spots

  • Akihabara
  • Asakusa
  • Ginza
  • Harajuku
  • Ikebukuro
  • Roppongi
  • Shibuya
  • Shinjuku
  • Tokyo Station
  • Tsukiji
  • Ueno

The Tokyo Video Experience

Picture Gallery

Also available on your smartphone.
Also available on your smartphone.
Make the most of our contents by browsing LIVE JAPAN with on your phone! Why not switch to mobile right now?https://livejapan.com/en/in-tokyo/