Travel

Citing Overtourism, Japan’s Himeji Castle May Charge Tourists 4x

Himeji Castle says it may charge foreign tourists four times more than locals. Is two-tier pricing in Japan sending mixed messages?

When in Japan, Avoid the Bar Barkers at All Costs

It's illegal in Japan to target people on the street and lure them into a bar. So why do so many businesses do it anyway?

Azabudai Hills Hosts Japan’s New Tallest Building. What’s Inside?

The major Azabudai Hills development, home to Japan's new tallest building, opened late last year. What's it like - and what does it mean for Tokyo?

Are More Tourists Getting Scammed in Japan?

More tourists to Japan report getting overcharged or just plain ripped off for goods and services. Here are the most common grifts - and how to avoid them.

Sayonara, Doctor Yellow: Shinkansen Test Train Headed for Retirement

It's said that "seeing it brings happiness." But no more: Japan's famous "Doctor Yellow" diagnostic Shinkansen train is entering retirement.

Are Japan’s Transportation Cards at Risk of Going Extinct?

IC transportation cards are an easy way to get around Japan. But five companies in Kumamoto say they can no longer afford to accept them. What does this mean for the ubiquitous IC card's future?

Is Tokyo’s Expensive Projection Mapping Tourist Draw Worth It?

Godzilla and others take center stage in a projection mapping exhibit in Tokyo that some say isn't worth its hefty price tag.

Thanks to Weak Yen, Japanese Timeshare Owners In Hawaii are Screwed

The weak yen means many Japanese people can't easily travel abroad. That's left those who bought timeshares in Hawaii losing money, as they now hold expensive contracts they can neither use nor sell.

Tourists are (Literally) Poking Holes in the Mt. Fuji Lawson Curtain

One town in Japan put up a giant curtain to deter overtourism at a famous Mt. Fuji tourist spot. But where there's a will, there's a way: some people are now literally poking holes in the drape as a workaround.

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