PiQtour Blog
Helpful tips for your journey to japan!
Travel Guides
The Ultimate Guide to Yokohama – Japan’s Sophisticated Port City
What Makes Yokohama So Unique? Yokohama is one of Japan’s most underrated yet unforgettable cities. Located just 30 minutes from Tokyo, it offers a refined blend of Western influence, port-city charm, and serene seaside beauty. Unlike the fast-paced buzz of Tokyo or...
Escape Tokyo for the Day—Kamakura Has Everything
Just one hour from Tokyo, Kamakura is a coastal town filled with historic temples, peaceful bamboo groves, and ocean views that whisper of old Japan. Once the political capital of the country during the Kamakura shogunate (1185–1333), this charming city offers a...
Best Tourist Spots in Hakone: A Relaxing Escape from Tokyo
Located just 90 minutes from Tokyo, Hakone is one of Japan’s most beloved hot spring towns—known for its scenic nature, onsen resorts, cultural museums, and views of Mount Fuji. Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway, a rejuvenating retreat, or a culturally...
Narita Airport Terminal 2: Complete Arrival & Departure Guide 🛬
📷 If your travels bring you to Kyoto consider booking a tour or photography session with us! 🧭 Table of Contents: Narita Airport Terminal 2 Complete Guide 🛬 Arrival at Terminal 2 Immigration & Quarantine Baggage Claim & Customs Arrival Lobby Essentials Access...
Locations
A Complete Guide to Amerikamura: Osaka’s Trendiest District
Don't forget to check out my photo tours and photo shoots while you visit Japan! Nestled in the heart of Osaka, Amerikamura—often called “Amemura” by locals—is a vibrant cultural hub that blends American influences with Japanese creativity. Known as the “Harajuku of...
Kuromon Market Guide: Best Market in Japan?!
Exploring Kuromon Market: A Foodie’s Guide to Osaka’s Famous Market Looking for a taste of Osaka’s vibrant street food culture? Kuromon Market is a must-visit destination for travelers seeking fresh seafood, traditional sweets, and a lively local atmosphere. With over...
Kyoto Kimono Itinerary: The Perfect 1-Day Date Plan
Planning a romantic day in Kyoto? This Kyoto kimono itinerary combines stunning sights, delicious food, and unforgettable cultural experiences—all while wearing traditional kimono. Whether you’re traveling as a couple, with friends, or solo, this guide will help you...
Dotonbori Guide: Discovering the Heart of Osaka
Hi everyone, it’s Abby from PiQtour! Welcome to the ultimate Dotonbori guide, where we’ll explore everything from famous landmarks and street food to hidden gems. Dotonbori is a bustling area that has become synonymous with Osaka’s vibrant nightlife, neon lights, and...
Culture and Activities
The 5 Japanese Concepts Learned from Your Japan Trip
What temples, shrines, and everyday encounters quietly reveal about Japan's deeper spirit.Japan’s temples, teahouses, and even train stations offer more than just sights—they whisper age-old lessons. While many travelers come for sushi, shrines, and the Shinkansen,...
Ultimate Onsen Guide: Japan’s Best Hot Springs
Why Japan is a Hot Spring Paradise Japan is truly a country built on fire and water. Due to its position on the Pacific Ring of Fire, it boasts over 27,000 hot spring sources and more than 3,000 officially designated onsen facilities. But what truly sets Japanese hot...
Should You Try Human Rickshaws in Japan? 🛶
You may have seen them in tourist photos—sleek, black rickshaws pulled by runners in traditional attire, weaving through Kyoto’s bamboo forests or Tokyo’s historic streets. But are these human-powered vehicles just for show? Or are they worth trying during your trip...
Why We Chose to Cut the Atomic Bomb Commentary from Our Hiroshima Video
When we released our video about Hiroshima, some viewers may have noticed that there were no personal reflections from Abigail about the atomic bomb or her reactions to the Peace Memorial Museum. What many don’t know is that this part of the video was originally...
Recent Posts
How to Use Japanese Spices to Level Up Your Home Cooking 🍜🌶️
Whether you’re a sushi lover or a ramen regular, chances are you’ve already tasted some classic Japanese seasonings without even realizing it. But what if you could bring those unique…
The Ultimate Guide to Yokohama – Japan’s Sophisticated Port City
What Makes Yokohama So Unique? Yokohama is one of Japan’s most underrated yet unforgettable cities. Located just 30 minutes from Tokyo, it offers a refined blend of Western influence, port-city…
Escape Tokyo for the Day—Kamakura Has Everything
Just one hour from Tokyo, Kamakura is a coastal town filled with historic temples, peaceful bamboo groves, and ocean views that whisper of old Japan. Once the political capital of…
Best Tourist Spots in Hakone: A Relaxing Escape from Tokyo
Located just 90 minutes from Tokyo, Hakone is one of Japan’s most beloved hot spring towns—known for its scenic nature, onsen resorts, cultural museums, and views of Mount Fuji. Whether…
Is the JR Pass Worth It for 7 or 14 Days in Japan? 🚄
How many cities—and what kind of travel—make the pass pay off? For many travelers, the Japan Rail Pass (JR Pass) feels like a smart investment. Unlimited rides on trains across…
English Words All Japanese People Know (Travel Edition)
When you’re traveling in Japan, you’ll quickly notice that many everyday words—like coffee, hotel, or camera—sound strangely familiar. That’s because Japanese often uses borrowed words from other languages (especially English!).…
Shopping
The Snack List You’ll Wish You Had Before Visiting Japan 🍘
You know Kit-Kat and Hi-Chew, and my regular readers might even know Black Thunder—but I bet you don’t know this, this, this, or this. Japan is a treasure trove of creative, nostalgic, and often surprising snacks. Some are sweet, some are savory, and some are...
Top Places to Shop in Japan (That Tourists Actually Love!) 🛍️
Whether you're hunting for affordable souvenirs, high-quality skincare, limited-edition collectibles, or simply want to explore Japan’s famous consumer culture, this is your essential guide. Japan’s stores are clean, safe, and incredibly diverse—making shopping a true...
Best Japanese Watch Brands for Tourists: Timeless Souvenirs!
If you’re looking for a meaningful souvenir from Japan that blends tradition, craftsmanship, and style, a Japanese watch might be the perfect choice. Japan is home to some of the world’s most respected watchmakers—from iconic giants like Seiko and Casio to smaller...
The Best Japan Souvenirs to Commemorate Your Trip 🎌🎁
If you've ever had to sit on your suitcase to zip it shut, you're not alone. Shopping in Japan is part treasure hunt, part joy therapy—and part luggage Tetris. Today, let's talk about the souvenirs that are practical, memorable, and suitcase-friendly. Want to capture...
Food and Drink
How to Use Japanese Spices to Level Up Your Home Cooking 🍜🌶️
Whether you’re a sushi lover or a ramen regular, chances are you've already tasted some classic Japanese seasonings without even realizing it. But what if you could bring those unique flavors into your own kitchen? From zesty citrus-pepper blends to umami-packed...
Matcha Sweets to Try in Kyoto! 🍵
A Sweet Journey into Kyoto’s Best Matcha Desserts If you love matcha—or even just have a soft spot for green tea desserts—Kyoto is where your sweet dreams come true. In this guide, we’ll take you through Kyoto’s best matcha treats, from modern must-tries to...
The Snack List You’ll Wish You Had Before Visiting Japan 🍘
You know Kit-Kat and Hi-Chew, and my regular readers might even know Black Thunder—but I bet you don’t know this, this, this, or this. Japan is a treasure trove of creative, nostalgic, and often surprising snacks. Some are sweet, some are savory, and some are...
11 Best Tokyo Wagyu Restaurants You Need to Try 🥩🔥
From luxury teppanyaki counters to cozy hidden yakiniku gems, Tokyo is one of the best places in Japan to explore the full range of Wagyu beef. Whether you’re hunting for A5-grade perfection or an affordable all-you-can-eat adventure, this guide will point you toward...
Seasonal
Detailed Japanese Seasons and When to Visit
A Month-by-Month Guide to Weather, Clothing, and What to Expect When Traveling in Japan Japan is often described as a country of four seasons—but that’s just the beginning. While the concept of spring, summer, fall, and winter is important, Japan’s seasonal...
What to Wear in Japan in Early Autumn (Sept-Oct) 🍂
A Comfortable and Flexible Clothing Guide for Mid-September to Early October 📷 If your travels bring you to Kyoto consider booking a tour or photography session with us! Transition Time—Not Quite Summer, Not Yet Chilly Early autumn in Japan brings a refreshing shift....
What to Wear in Japan in Mid-Autumn (Oct-Nov)
A Layered, Stylish Travel Guide for Mid-October to Early November 📷 If your travels bring you to Kyoto consider booking a tour or photography session with us! When the Air Turns Crisp and the Leaves Begin to Fall Between mid-October and early November, Japan steps...
What to Wear in Japan in Late Autumn (Nov-Dec) 🍂
A Cozy Travel Clothing Guide for Mid-November to Early December 📷 If your travels bring you to Kyoto consider booking a tour or photography session with us! Golden Leaves, Chilly Mornings, and Clear Blue Skies From mid-November to early December, Japan transitions...
Restaurants and Cafes Reviews and Lists!
Matcha Sweets to Try in Kyoto! 🍵
A Sweet Journey into Kyoto’s Best Matcha Desserts If you love matcha—or even just have a soft spot for green tea desserts—Kyoto is where your sweet dreams come true. In…
11 Best Tokyo Wagyu Restaurants You Need to Try 🥩🔥
From luxury teppanyaki counters to cozy hidden yakiniku gems, Tokyo is one of the best places in Japan to explore the full range of Wagyu beef. Whether you’re hunting for…
Where to Eat Kobe Beef in Kobe: Top-Rated Restaurants for Every Traveler
If you’re planning a trip to Japan, there’s a good chance Kobe beef is already on your must-try list. Famed for its rich marbling, melt-in-your-mouth texture, and exceptional quality, Kobe…
Take a Break Near Kinkaku-ji: Two Quality Cafes Right by the Bus Stop
After admiring the breathtaking beauty of Kinkaku-ji, you might find yourself craving a moment of rest with a great cup of coffee. Just a short walk from the temple, right…
14 Best Cafes in Shijo Kawaramachi, Kyoto
Kawaramachi is one of Kyoto’s most vibrant areas, filled with a mix of traditional kissaten, modern cafes, and unique coffee spots. Whether you’re looking for retro vibes, a perfect matcha…
11 Best Cafes in Arashiyama Kyoto
Arashiyama is famous for its breathtaking bamboo forest, scenic river views, and historic temples. But beyond the tourist attractions, it’s also home to some incredible cafes. Whether you’re looking for…