tourism

TRAVEL

As Tourists Flood In, Kamakura Battles Vandalism and Public Urination

City officials warn they may have to take more drastic measures to curtail tourists if conditions don't improve.

TRAVEL

Welcome Suica App Adds Ticketless Shinkansen, Express Train Support for Tourists

The Welcome Suica App now lets you reserve seats on several bullet train and express lines managed by JR East.

TRAVEL

Tourists Feeding Bears in Japan Has Deadly Consequences

A sad story from Hokkaido illustrates how tourist behavior altered the disposition of a bear that came to view humans as food.

INSIDER

Plastic Japan: Why Kabukicho Tower Is Empty – But Still Makes Money

Kabukicho Tower is plastic, gaudy, and largely a bust as a tourist attraction. But none of that matters to its owner.

TRAVEL

Tokyo’s Sento Are Opening Their Arms to Foreign Tourists

Tokyo and the Tokyo Sento Association want more tourists (tattooed or otherwise!) to experience this aspect of traditional Japanese culture.

TRAVEL

Ryokan vs. Hotels: Inside Japan’s Unique Accommodation Culture

Should you stay in a "modern" hotel or a more "traditional" ryokan in Japan? Here's what to consider when deciding.

TRAVEL

Japan’s Lodging Taxes Grow as It Combats Overtourism, Fuels Growth

In order to fuel tourism investment and combat overtourism, close to 100 locales are considering new lodging taxes. How will this affect…

TRAVEL

Japanese Cities Use Social Media to Teach Tourists Manners

Multiple locations across Japan are using social media and good old-fashioned pamphleteering to combat the negative effects of overtourism.