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Cruise lines lie: This port isn't in Osaka City... and that one's not in Kyoto City, either!
I recently encountered a situation in a Facebook cruise group where a cruise company was trying to pass off a stop in Wakayama as being...
Jay Tee
Sep 23, 2024
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A Tattooed Person in Japan
In recent years, tattooing has become a popular form of personal expression for many people around the world. However, foreign tourists...
Jay Tee
Sep 19, 2024
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The Soothing Hues of Kansai's Autumn Leaves
During the autumn season, the Japanese countryside transforms into a breathtaking display called "Kouyou" in Japanese, known in English...
Jay Tee
Sep 16, 2024
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Finding Your Stateroom...Again!
This won't help you navigate a ship's complicated deck plan the first time you need to find your cabin aboard a cruise ship. sorry, can't...
Jay Tee
Sep 12, 2024
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Hanging Things Up in a Cruise Line Stateroom
No matter which cruise line you prefer, they all seem to have the same issue—where to hang drying wet swimsuits or hand-washed clothing...
Jay Tee
Sep 8, 2024
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Uncover the Hidden Gems of Kyoto, Osaka, and Kobe
There are countless breathtaking sights waiting to be discovered in Kyoto, Osaka, and Kobe that extend far beyond the typical temples and...
Jay Tee
Sep 5, 2024
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Christmas in Japan? Winter Fun in the Kansai Area
[Updated 8 Nov 2024 with links to Autumn and Winter events for 2024] Christmas decorations are up and events happen all over Japan...
Jay Tee
Sep 2, 2024
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Kobe—Port City to the Samurai
Are you wondering what to see in Kobe city? The must-see attractions include the stunning Kobe Tower and waterfront area and the...
Jay Tee
Sep 1, 2024
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Osaka—What to See and How to Get There
When exploring Osaka, you simply cannot miss out on the incredible attractions that await you! From the majestic Osaka Castle to the...
Jay Tee
Sep 1, 2024
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Nara—Beauty in the Mountains
I had the amazing opportunity to recently guide a small group on a delightful stroll through the picturesque mountain town of Nara,...
Jay Tee
Aug 30, 2024
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Japan: Credit Cards or Cash?
It is (finally!) possible and safe to use your credit card at most stores in Japan, although smaller shops, museums, and temples may...
Jay Tee
Aug 30, 2024
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Electronic Money Cards (aka IC Cards) in Japan
Recently Added: How to buy your IC Card in a train station! Electronic money cards come in various types, such as ICOCA, SUICA, PITAPA,...
Jay Tee
Aug 30, 2024
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How Safe is Japan... really?
It's safe enough in Japan to stagger home alone through the half-lighted streets to your apartment, rather drunk, at 3:00am, while...
Jay Tee
Aug 30, 2024
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Are You Docking in Kobe or Osaka?
How do we get downtown? Is there a free shuttle? How do we get into the city? There is often terrible confusion and misinformation about...
Jay Tee
Aug 30, 2024
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"What is Keihanshin?"
Keihanshin is the metropolitan region in Japan that encompasses all three cities of Kyoto, Osaka, and Kobe. It is the second most...
Jay Tee
Aug 30, 2024
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Visiting Kyoto from Kobe or Osaka Port
Looking to check out Kyoto from a cruise ship arriving in Kobe or Osaka? Your best bet is to hop on a train for about an hour from Osaka...
Jay Tee
Aug 30, 2024
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Understanding Japanese Typhoons
Japan yearly takes hits from cyclonic storms of various intensities. Every time we have one, news agencies online overstate the dangers...
Jay Tee
Aug 30, 2024
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A Free Ferry to USJ? Yes!
Yes, you can take the free ferry from Tempozan/Osaka Cruise Terminal most of the way to Universal Studios Japan. Follow the very water's...
Jay Tee
Aug 30, 2024
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Sweaty, Painful Thighs? Hurts to Walk?
What to do when your thighs make walking become painful.
Jay Tee
Aug 30, 2024
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Group Tour or Private Tour—Which is best?
When deciding between joining a large tour/cruise excursion or hiring your own private tour guide, it is important to weigh the pros and...
Jay Tee
Aug 30, 2024
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