Matcha is a special type of Japanese green tea, which you can make at home using this simple matcha green tea recipe. What makes matcha so special? The tea plants are shaded before harvesting to induce the accumulation of nutrients. After harvest, the tender leaves are ground into a fine powder. Unlike other teas, the…
Tag: Japan
Golden Week in Japan: Travel Do’s and Don’t’s
This article on Golden Week Japan was originally published on jrailpass.com. We’re linking it here as part of Cara’s travel writing portfolio archive. Enjoy! “In Japan, the Golden Week is a series of four national holidays that take place within one week at the end of April to the beginning of May each year. It is often considered a…
2020 Japan Cherry Blossom Forecast
This article on Japan’s cherry blossom forecast was originally published on jrailpass.com. We’re linking it here as part of Cara’s travel writing portfolio archive. Enjoy! “The Japanese cherry blossom, or sakura, has long been adored by people across the globe. It is regarded as a symbol of renewal, vitality, and beauty. During the spring season of each year, thousands travel…
Miyajima, Japan Travel Guide
This article on Miyajima, Japan was originally published on jrailpass.com. We’re linking it here as part of Cara’s travel writing portfolio archive. Enjoy! “Miyajima means “shrine island,” and this small island has since ancient times been a sacred place of worship, where the gods were thought to live in harmony with mortal man. “Also called Itsukushima, Miyajima Island is…
Hiroshima, Japan Travel Guide
This article on Hiroshima, Japan was originally published on jrailpass.com. We’re linking it here as part of Cara’s travel writing portfolio archive. Enjoy! “Hiroshima is a city with deep historical roots, evident in its ancient gardens and castles. During the 20h century, Hiroshima became the center of unenviable international attention after the first atomic bomb was detonated…
Japan Train Cards: How to Use Them
This article on Japan train cards was originally published on jrailpass.com. We’re linking it here as part of Cara’s travel writing portfolio archive. Enjoy! “International travel can be an intimidating experience for both the novice and seasoned adventurer. Japan, however, has taken steps to make internal transportation easy and stress-free, for Japanese residents and tourists alike. Learn…
Sagano Scenic Railway: Autumn Leaf Viewing
This article on the Sagano Scenic Railway was originally published on jrailpass.com. We’re linking it here as part of Cara’s travel writing portfolio archive. Enjoy! “Western Kyoto has long been known for its natural beauty. In fact, the Arashiyama district has been a favorite of tourists for well over 1,000 years. The beauty of this region peaks twice a year, first…
Ekiben Bento Boxes: Top 6 Train Station Snacks
This article on ekiben bento boxes was originally published on jrailpass.com. We’re linking it here as part of Cara’s travel writing portfolio archive. Enjoy! What is Ekiben? “The Japanese word ekiben is essentially a combination of the words eki, meaning “station,” and bento, the traditional Japanese lunch box. Therefore, a Japanese lunch box. Therefore, an ekiben is a portable lunch that you…
Seven Stars Kyushu: Japan’s Luxurious Train
This article on the Seven Stars Kyushu was originally published on jrailpass.com. We’re linking it here as part of Cara’s travel writing portfolio archive. Enjoy! “Wise travelers know that traveling is not just about the destination; getting there is half the fun. The significance of the journey itself is embodied in Japan’s Seven Stars luxury sleeper train, based…
Cherry Blossom Viewing: Top 12 Spots in Japan
This article on cherry blossom viewing was originally published on jrailpass.com. We’re linking it here as part of Cara’s travel writing portfolio archive. Enjoy! “Japan is famous for its flowering cherry trees. These trees are much sought after around the world. Cherry blossom festivals are held in such diverse regions as Washington, Vancouver, Paris, Stockholm,…