Find answers to the age old questions: What do Japanese people eat other than sushi? What is wabi sabi? Why are there so few garbage bins in Japan and yet everywhere is so clean? How do Japanese people stay so slim? Why is the cherry blossom the essence of the Japanese aesthetic?
I write about Japanese cuisine, manners and concepts as well as travel adventures throughout Wakayama, the "hidden gem" of Japan. Learn why it has become the number one location for Japanese travellers. What is it about Wakayama that makes it such a desirable “off the beaten path” travel destination?

Is there Tipping in Japan?

Tipping is not done in Japan. If you forget and leave a tip at a restaurant, the server will run after you and return your money. The same goes for a taxi-driver, hairdresser, or masseuse.
We always take souvenirs like small packets of tea, cookies or maple syrup with us on our trips so that we have something to give to that special tour guide or concierge.