Home Swaps Are Driving the Future of Trust-Based Travel
What if the future of travel isn’t about where you stay, but how you live while you’re there? A quiet revolution is unfolding—one key at a time.
Posts by Simon Martin
Tokyo: The 7th Most Affordable City for Renting a Property Globally
Not all global capitals come with a hefty price tag. A few unexpected names challenge what it means to live affordably in today’s world.
The UK Premiere of Our Cosmic Dust at Park Theatre
A child’s quest through the cosmos spirals into unexpected encounters—where meaning flickers between the surreal, the tender, and the quietly absurd.
15 Budget Travel Hacks For Travelling To Japan
A trip to Japan doesn’t have to drain your wallet. What if the most rewarding parts of your journey were also the ones that cost the least?
Favourite Budget Eats in Japan That Feel Anything But Cheap
There’s an entire world of taste tucked into quiet alleys, basement shops, and station platforms—often missed, but never forgotten once found.
What Do Japanese Flowers Symbolize in Japanese Culture?
Petals fall, seasons shift, and stories unfold—each bloom in Japan carries more than color. Follow the signs hidden in nature’s quietest language.
2-Week Japan Itinerary: Osaka, Kobe and Back to Tokyo (Part 3)
You won’t find this in any guidebook: a behind-the-scenes glitch in the USJ experience—and the one decision that turned our day from frantic to flawless.
Top Ryokans in Japan for an Unforgettable Stay
What if the stillness of snow, the rhythm of cedar forests, and the hush of paper walls could speak? These quiet stays have something to say.
Japanese Film Club Launch Party With Yokimono Market
Three spaces. One date. Something ferments beneath the surface—where film frames, kimonos, and rare brews align. You might want to stay all night.
Satoshi Miyagi: Visionary Director Redefining Global Theatre
A voice without a body. A body without a voice. When silence performs and stillness speaks, what remains of the stories we thought we knew?
Medea: Meiji Japan at The Coronet
A legend fractures under lamplight. Shadows speak, silence moves. Power slips between hands as voices—borrowed, broken—resurrect a woman’s final act.
2-Week Japan Itinerary: Kyoto, Osaka & Beyond (Part 2)
A day of motion and meaning—trains hum, shadows stretch, and Kyoto breathes in lantern light. Somewhere between temples and tea, something shifts.
How Japan Classic Showcases Everyday Beauty Through Ceramics
A bowl with a crooked rim. A cup marked by ash. Before the story begins, the silence of objects already speaks—if you know how to listen.
2-Week Japan Itinerary: Tokyo and Hakone (Part 1)
There’s a subtle art to moving through Japan: part choreography, part improvisation. What if your bags weren’t part of the performance at all?
Top Japanese Cities and Secret Spots According to Data
Some places don’t ask to be found—they wait. Behind temple walls, beneath quiet storefronts, Japan's best-kept secrets are already hiding in plain sight.
Fun Facts About Japan from Abroad in Japan YouTube
Polite silence, teacher titles, plastic paradoxes—Japan refracts through a British lens in 10 oddly specific, oddly familiar cultural moments.
The Ryokan Collection: Curating Japan’s Finest Inns
Choosing the right ryokan can transform your Japan trip. Explore how The Ryokan Collection curates unforgettable stays blending luxury, culture, and care.
Kamakura in a Day: Where History Meets the Sea
Not every journey needs a checklist. Some just need quiet streets, golden light, and a little wonder. This is Kamakura — slower, softer, unforgettable.
Did You Know? Foods You’d Never Expect to See Everywhere in Japan
Japan’s everyday eats might surprise you. From fluffy pancakes to German cakes, explore the global dishes hiding in plain sight across the country.
Graphy Hotel Shibuya: A Great Base to Explore Tokyo’s Vibrant Culture
Looking for a stylish, welcoming hotel in Shibuya? Graphy Hotel offers cozy rooms, friendly service, and an unbeatable location for exploring Tokyo.
Japan in April: Top Events & Festivities to Experience
🌸 April in Japan means cherry blossoms, vibrant festivals, and once-in-a-lifetime events. Explore the can't-miss highlights of Japan’s most magical month!
Top Travel Apps to Have When Visiting Japan
Here are the top Japan travel apps, plus those that work perfectly with Jetpac eSIM. With the right resources, a trip to Japan is a breeze!
Lost in Gion: Wandering Through Kyoto’s Geisha Quarter
In the heart of Kyoto lies a vibrant and enchanting...
The World of Japanese Vending Machines
Vending machines are everywhere in Japan, offering everything from hot meals to luxury goods. Let's explores their history, innovation, and why they remain a key part of Japanese culture.
Ueno Guide: Tokyo’s Museum Mecca
Explore Ueno, Tokyo’s cultural gem! From Ueno Park’s cherry blossoms to top museums, dining, and shopping, discover the best of Ueno!
Golden Age of Japanese Cinema: Must-See Film Classics
Discover Japan’s Golden Age of Cinema—iconic directors, timeless films, and the legacy that shaped global filmmaking.
Daikanyama Guide: Tokyo’s Destination for Art, Architecture, and Live Music
Discover Daikanyama, Tokyo’s cultural hotspot for art, architecture, and live music. Explore galleries, design landmarks, and music venues.
Top 10 Mecha Anime To Add To Your Watch List
Discover the ultimate list of Top 10 Mecha Anime! Explore thrilling battles, iconic robots, and gripping stories in this must-read guide.
10 Must-Visit Jazz Kissatens in Tokyo’s Shinjuku Area
Visit Shinjuku's jazz cafés aka jazz kissas that you can still visit in Tokyo today, where music, charm, and culture create a jazz escape.
Japan in Winter: Unique Experiences You Can’t Miss
Venture beyond Tokyo to uncover Japan’s winter charm — serene hot springs, ancient castles dusted in snow, and whimsical snow festivals that only happen once a year.
Neo-Tokyo in Japanese Contemporary Art
A fusion of past and future. Explore how contemporary Japanese art captures the essence of Neo Tokyo's iconic cultural vision. Read more!
Why Nozawa Onsen Should Be on Your Japan Travel Plan
Ski pristine slopes, soak in onsens, and savour Japanese culture. Discover Nozawa Onsen, Japan's ultimate winter escape with Shaper Retreats!
Famous Japanese Architects: An Introduction
Japanese architects can be collectively categorised as having eccentric taste and utmost creative and personal expression. Get to know them!
Mark Your Calendars: Yokimono Japanese Xmas Market 2024 is Here!
Experience Japanese culture in London at Yokimono Japanese Christmas Market, Dalston, December 2024—food, crafts, performances!
Learn About Japanese Green Tea with This Crash Course
Tea is life in Japan, not just a drink. Check out our Japanese green tea crash course and become a true tea expert today. Read more!
Explore Tokyo’s Kabukicho: A Neon-Lit Nightlife Adventure
Experience Kabukicho's vibrant nightlife, from hidden bars to neon-lit streets, and explore one of Tokyo's most dynamic neighbourhoods!
Takashi Murakami Announced for Japan Expo 2024
Discover Takashi Murakami's vibrant art, from traditional influences to pop culture fusion, at V&A's Japan Cultural Expo!
A Visual Journey through 90s Japan
Travel through time with nostalgic photos of Japan in the 90s, capturing the vibrant culture, fashion, and unforgettable moments of the era.
Exploring the Types of Japanese Restaurants: London’s Best Picks
Discover the types of Japanese restaurants in London, from sushi bars to izakayas. Explore London's best spots for authentic Japanese cuisine!
11 Ways To Celebrate Halloween in Japan
Celebrate Halloween in Japan with vibrant costumes, spooky parades, and unforgettable theme park events in 2024.
Discover 15 Hidden Markets in Japan
Explore 10 hidden markets in Japan with Jetpac’s eSIM. Discover local produce, unique antiques, and fresh seafood while staying connected.
Best Internet in Japan: 12 Ways to Stay Connected
Discover the 12 best ways for foreigners to access the internet in Japan while traveling, from public wifi to eSIMs. Read more!
Japan Off the Menu: Top 10 Local Eats To Try
Beyond sushi and ramen, there's a whole world of Japanese food to discover. Let us show you what Japan off the beaten path is all about!
Why Jetpac eSIM is the BEST eSIM for Japan Travel
Find out why Jetpac's eSIM is a must-have for your Japan adventures. Say goodbye to roaming charges and hello to hassle-free travel!
Jidaigeki: Top Akira Kurosawa Films Through Japan’s Historical Eras
Read about the best Akira Kurosawa films by era, from Edo to Meiji, and explore the rich contexts that made his Jidaigeki films legendary.
Tohoku Travel Guide: Exploring Northern Japan
Tohoku travel showcases Japan's untouched northern region, rich in nature, culture, and history—a serene escape filled with unique beauty.
Best eSIMs in Japan: Stay Connected While Traveling
Discover the best eSIMs for traveling in Japan. From Jetpac to Sakura Mobile, find the perfect eSIM to enhance your trip! Read more.
A Beginner’s Guide to Learning Japanese
Learning Japanese seems like a daunting task from ground zero but just take a deep breathe, count to 10 and just ease in slowly but surely.
Lofi Music for Beginners: What You Need To Know
New to the lofi music scene? Worry not - we got you covered! Discover the soothing sounds of the genre and enjoy some chill lo-fi beats.
Tokyo Theatres: Art & Broadway Shows Worth Seeing
Discover Tokyo’s best theatres and museums! From traditional kabuki to modern art, explore the heart of Japan’s cultural scene.
Master Japanese Fast with Japademy’s Nihongo Program
Ready to achieve Japanese fluency? Get to know Japademy’s unique approach on how to easily learn Japanese and master Nihongo today! Read more
Japademy: The Best Online Japanese Language Lessons
Japademy offers the best Japanese language lessons online. Master Nihongo and start your Japanese language learning journey today!
Japan’s First Megaquake Advisory: Impact on Tourists
Japan’s Nankai Trough earthquake advisory impacts tourism; learn about seismic activity, travel advisories, and disaster preparedness
Myths & Folklore of Japan’s Legendary Warriors
Discover the rich folklore of Japan with Jamie Ryder's Japanese Fighting Heroes. This captivating book goes beyond legendary Japanese myths.
From Ocean to Lamp: How Heliograf is Turning Plastic Waste into Light
Combat ocean pollution by recycling plastic bags. Discover Heliograf’s innovative lamp made from ocean-bound plastic waste.
8 Lesser-Known Places in Japan Worth Visiting
Find out the best places to visit in Japan beyond Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka. Explore hidden gems and top attractions. Read more.
Things to Do in Hiroshima: Your Ultimate Travel Guide
Explore top things to do in Hiroshima with our ultimate travel guide. Discover key sites, fav spots, cuisine, and must-visit attractions.
Visit the 2024 Yokimono Japanese Market
Discover the Yokimono Japanese Market in Dalston, a vibrant cultural event showcasing authentic Japanese food, arts, and performances.
Japan & The Land of the Rising (and Falling) NFTs
Explore Japan's NFT revolution! Uncover how this tech-savvy nation embraces and innovates in the rising and falling world of NFTs.
Top 10 Spiritual Places to Visit in Japan for Inner Peace
Discover top 10 spiritual places to visit in Japan, blending tradition and nature, from serene Kyoto temples to sacred Mount Fuji. Read more!
Japan’s Markets: Types & Where to Find Them
Explore the vibrant world of Japanese markets, from fresh seafood to unique regional delicacies, and immerse in rich cultural experiences.
Backpacking in Japan: Essential Tips and Tricks
Your ultimate guide to backpacking in Japan – discover budget tips, must-visit destinations, and unforgettable cultural experiences.
The ‘Cool Japan’ Campaign: Japan’s Tourism Boom
Explore how Japan’s ‘Cool Japan’ campaign, blending tradition with modernity, has catapulted the nation into a global tourism powerhouse.
Moyagi London: Best Japanese Karaoke Bar Experience
Discover the origin of Japanese karaoke at Moyagi, the premier karaoke bar in London. Experience authentic Japanese singing and J-Pop.
Japan with Jetpac eSIM: Travel & Connectivity Guide
Discover Japan hassle-free with Jetpac! Stay connected anywhere, from vibrant Tokyo to scenic Hokkaido. Explore curated itineraries here!
The Ultimate Guide to Japanese Food
Discover the essentials of Japanese food in our guide—from sushi to ramen. Dive into flavors, traditions, and must-try dishes for food lovers
EIGAKAN Jazz Kissa Project: Preserving a Tokyo Legend
Discover Tokyo's iconic jazz kissas with the Eigakan Jazz Kissa Project. Preserving culture, music, and history for future generations.
Samurai-Inspired Luxury: A Modern Tribute
Explore Samurai-Inspired Luxury Fashion and the fusion of tradition and innovation in our interview with Benjamin Benichou, CEO of Drop.
Introducing The Culinary Encyclopedia of Japan
Explore Japanese cuisine's rich history & culture with "The Culinary Encyclopedia of Japan". Master ingredients & delve deeper than recipes.
Kyoto Jazz Massive Concert: A Timeless Journey
Discover Kyoto Jazz Massive's Concert a genre-defying 30-year journey. Shuya Okino, Vanessa Freeman, and Echoes Of A New Dawn Orchestra.
Taito City Travel Guide: Tokyo’s Hidden Gem
Taito City Travel Guide: Discover Taito City’s culture and history is very rich and deeply rooted with the history of Japan itself.
Beyond Boundaries: Chiten Theatre’s Journey to GOOD-BYE
Discover Chiten Theatre’s innovative adaptation of Dazai’s Good-Bye, a masterpiece of experimental theatre in Japan.
Mochiya: Say Hello to Mochi Pillows!
Craving dreamy mochi ice cream in London? Discover the top spots for pillowy-soft bites bursting with flavor - explore now!
Rustic Streets in Tokyo: Are Alleyways Fading Away?
Explore the enchanting Tokyo Alleyways, where historical charm meets modern vibrancy on the iconic streets in Tokyo.
Culinary Delights: Mastering Global Flavors at Home
Indulge in a world of culinary delights – explore diverse flavors, authentic ingredients, and global cooking techniques at home!
Godzilla Minus One: A Movie Review
Explore the cinematic brilliance of Godzilla Minus One movie review. Uncover the visual spectacle, symbolism, and enduring legacy.
Akiya Houses: Japan’s Vacant Housing Crisis
Explore the fascinating world of akiya houses in rural Japan, uncovering their cultural, economic, and environmental impact. Read more.
The Zen of Japanese Gardens
Explore the serene beauty and cultural symbolism of Japanese zen gardens, embodying tranquility, harmony, and nature's connection.
Representing Tokyo in ‘Lost in Translation’
Step into Tokyo with Lost in Translation: Wander neon streets, embrace hotel solitude, and feel the magic of Bob and Charlotte's journey.
3 Tokyo Sub-Cities You Can Explore Through Fiction
Explore Tokyo's special wards through Japanese novels featuring Tokyo, from Meguro's tranquillity to Shinagawa's urban symbolism.
Japan’s Old-School Aesthetic With Showa35mm
Explore the Showa era's rich history and aesthetics with the Showa35mm Collection by Alex Sinclair. Journey back in time
BFI celebrates the Movies of Yasujirō Ozu
BFI is celebrating Ozu with a season of his films, A Family Affair: The Films of Yasujirō Ozu. It will feature a selection of his best films.
Embracing Elegance: The Allure of Japanese Fashion
Explore the enduring charm of Japanese fashion, where tradition meets modernity in timeless clothing styles.
Things to do in Japan in August
Discover the vibrant festivals, delightful weather, and delicious food that make Japan in August an unforgettable experience.
Final Fantasy’s of the JRPG Genre
Explore the evolution of Final Fantasy: from its origins to groundbreaking innovations that shaped gaming history.
5 of The Most Iconic Japanese Eyewear Collabs
Collabs with Japanese designers are coveted internationally because the result is always a quality product with a distinctly Japanese flair.
The Artistry of Fashion by Kawakubo and Miyake
Experience the Artistry of Japanese Fashion by Kawakubo and Miyake, blending tradition and innovation. Discover more about these designers.
The Faces of Mt. Fuji Through Japanese Paintings
Explore the beauty of Mt. Fuji through iconic Japanese paintings, showcasing its cultural significance and artistic evolution over centuries.
Let’s Make Sushi! With Chef Andy Matsuda
Transform your home kitchen into a sushi haven with Let’s Make Sushi! Step-by-Step Tutorials & Essential Recipes for Sushi, Sashimi and More.
Reviving the Japanese Jazz Age
Explore the Jazz Age in Japan and its connection to the 1923 Great Kantô Earthquake! Learn about its history and origins. Read more
Edo Kiriko: The Japanese Art Form That Blows Your Mind!
Edo Kiriko is a traditional Japanese art form that involves cutting and polishing glass to create intricate and beautiful designs. Read on
Tokyo Jazz Joints: Documenting A Vanishing World of Japanese Jazz Culture
TOKYO JAZZ JOINTS is a chronicle of a unique world. A audiovisual documentary photography project of the vanishing Japanese Jazz Culture.
Honest Review of 10 Tokyo Attractions
Discover 10 must-visit beginner attractions in Tokyo! An honest review of iconic spots to explore for first-time travelers to Japan.
BFI celebrates the Movies of Akira Kurosawa
We're thrilled to announce BFI's celebration of the movies Akira Kurosawa, a two-month complete season showcasing 30 feature runs
‘Rokabiri’: The Music That Shook Japan
Japan's post-war period had a profound impact on life in Japan. Today we take a look at the Rokabiri movement that made quite the difference
The 2022 Yokimono Japanese Xmas Market is Here!
YOKIMONO JAPANESE MARKET is presenting a Japanese-themed Christmas Market and cultural event at The FACTORY DALSTON in East London.
The Significance of Anime and Architecture
The world of anime is a created universe that combines rich details and elaborate plot lines that bring stories and characters to life.
Nujabes: The Godfather of Modern Lofi
The mastermind behind the rhythms present in Samurai Champloo is lofi legend Nujabes. Seba Jun’s moniker is recognisable in any circle
BFI Presents, Kinuyo Tanaka: A Life in Film
Discover the legacy of Kinuyo Tanaka, Japan’s trailblazing actress and director, whose films continue to inspire generations of cinephiles.
How Tokyo Street Fashion Shapes Collective Culture
Known for its diversity and boldness, Tokyo street fashion has relentlessly evolved and changed in nature throughout the years