Koto's Japan

Topic

Experiences

Things to do in Japan, explained before you go: what happens, how to behave, and how to choose.

Koto in a sage-green kimono kneeling in a quiet tea room, reaching out with both hands to receive a tea bowl from a host
Experiences

Tea Ceremony Experiences in Kyoto & Tokyo: What to Expect

Thinking of joining a Japanese tea ceremony on your trip? Here's what happens step by step, how to behave as a guest, what to wear, and how to choose a good experience.
Koto praying with her eyes closed at a snowy shrine, beside the bell rope, while other visitors walk toward the hall in winter coats
Experiences

Hatsumode: Japan's First Shrine Visit of the Year (and How to Join In)

In the first days of January, millions of people in Japan visit a shrine or temple to pray for the year ahead. Here's how to visit, how to pray, and what omikuji, omamori and ema mean.