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2024.01.29

Travel to Japan

Winter Illuminations in Tokyo 2025 | Best Light Displays & Photo Spots

Winter turns Tokyo into a city of light. From elegant tree-lined boulevards to dazzling urban parks, the capital glows with spectacular installations ideal for date nights, family trips, and photography walks. Below are the must-see illumination spots for 2025, with official links for checking details and access. Marunouchi Illumination — Sophisticated streets wrapped in gold Just steps from Tokyo Station, Marunouchi’s Nakadori transforms into a warm champagne-gold corridor each winter. Hundreds of trees sparkle to create a refined, romantic mood. Marunouchi’s shopping and dining towers also stage seasonal décor, so you can pair lights with a cozy dinner. ▶ Official site (Marunouchi Street Park) Keyakizaka (Roppongi Hills) — Tokyo Tower […]

About the SAMURAI

Samurai in Popular Culture: Movies, Anime, and How to Experience It in Real Life

Last updated: October 2025 (JST) Samurai are not just historical figures—they’ve become global cultural icons. Through movies, anime, and games, the samurai spirit continues to inspire audiences worldwide, representing honor, discipline, and a unique sense of pride. Table of Contents Samurai in Movies The Last Samurai (2003) Starring Tom Cruise, The Last Samurai reintroduced samurai culture to the world. It follows a foreign soldier who rediscovers honor and discipline through Japan’s traditional warrior way, leaving a lasting impression on international audiences. Kill Bill (2003) Directed by Quentin Tarantino, Kill Bill is a modern homage to Japanese samurai cinema. Its striking katana battles, themes of revenge, and visual artistry brought samurai […]

About the SAMURAI

The Role of Samurai Women: Onna-Bugeisha and Their Legacy

Last updated: October 2025 (JST) When most people imagine a samurai, they picture a male warrior clad in armor. Yet throughout Japanese history, women of the samurai class also took up arms to protect their families, their homes, and their honor. These women were known as Onna-Bugeisha (female martial artists), and they played a critical but often overlooked role in samurai society. Table of Contents Who Were the Onna-Bugeisha? Onna-Bugeisha were women of the samurai class who trained in martial arts and sometimes fought in battles. They embodied loyalty, discipline, and courage, defending their households and clan honor. Famous Female Samurai Warriors Early Appearances in History Tomoe Gozen fought in […]

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Samurai Armor: Design, Symbolism, and Where to See It in Tokyo

Last updated: September 26, 2025 (JST) Samurai armor, or katchū, was not only a tool of war but also a powerful cultural symbol of Japan. It represented strength, honor, and aesthetics—values deeply rooted in the samurai spirit. This guide explores the evolution, craftsmanship, and symbolism of samurai armor, and shows you exactly where to see, wear, and experience it in Tokyo today. Table of Contents What Is Samurai Armor? Samurai armor balanced protection, mobility, and visual impact. Beyond the battlefield, it signified rank, clan identity, and personal taste—making each suit a unique fusion of engineering and art. The Evolution of Samurai Armor Early Armor: O-yoroi and Haramaki During the Heian […]

About the SAMURAI

Top Samurai-Themed Experiences Around the World (and Why Tokyo Is Where You Truly Become a Samurai)

Know samurai around the world, feel samurai across Japan, and finally become a samurai in Tokyo. From classic films and anime to museum exhibitions and live performances, samurai culture captivates people worldwide. Outside Japan, most encounters are about watching and learning: gazing at armor and swords, listening to historical talks, or enjoying cinematic stories. In Japan, you can feel samurai values in everyday culture and preserved towns. And in Tokyo—thanks to accessible, hands-on programs—you can finally become a samurai for real. Samurai Culture Around the World: Where You Can “Know” the Samurai United States: Cinema, Anime, and Pop Culture Gateways Film festivals, anime conventions, and pop-culture expos frequently showcase samurai […]

About the SAMURAI

Bushido: The Samurai Code of Honor Explained for Modern Travelers

Among the many aspects of Japanese culture that fascinate visitors, the way of the samurai stands out as one of the most iconic. While movies and anime have spread the image of the samurai as noble warriors, the deeper philosophy behind their actions is rooted in Bushido—the Samurai Code of Honor. More than a historical concept, Bushido continues to influence Japanese society, business, and even modern tourism. This article will explore the history, values, and relevance of Bushido, and how travelers can experience it in Japan today. What Is Bushido? The Origins of the Term The word Bushido (武士道) literally means “the way of the warrior.” It emerged during Japan’s […]

JAPANESE CULTURE

Best Cultural Activities in Harajuku Tokyo 2025 | Samurai Experience, Tea Ceremony, Calligraphy & Meiji Shrine

Harajuku is more than just a fashion hub—it is also a perfect base for hands-on cultural experiences. In this guide, we introduce a one-day plan: starting with a Samurai Experience after hotel checkout, a visit to Meiji Shrine (recommended either in the morning or afternoon), followed by tea ceremony, calligraphy, and Japanese coffee brewing workshops. Finally, we suggest evening options in Shibuya and Shinjuku Golden Gai, so you can enjoy Tokyo’s culture both day and night. Why Choose Harajuku for Cultural Activities? Harajuku is surrounded by Omotesando, Meiji Shrine, and Yoyogi Park, making it easy to enjoy both active and mindful experiences in one area. Start your morning with Samurai […]

Travel to Japan

TitleFeatured on 47trip!

Our “Samurai Experience” has been featured on the blog of 47trip, a platform sharing information on hotels and travel in Japan! Check it out here ↓https://www.47trip.com/feature/ft63/

JAPANESE CULTURE

5 Best Indoor Cultural Experiences in Tokyo on a Rainy Day [2025 Edition]

You’ve planned your Tokyo itinerary down to the minute, but the forecast says rain… Don’t worry — bad weather doesn’t have to ruin your trip. Tokyo offers many immersive indoor experiences that let you explore Japan’s rich culture without getting wet. Here are five highly recommended cultural activities in Tokyo that are perfect for a rainy day — especially popular among international travelers. 1. Samurai Experience | Learn the Art of the Sword Indoors ⭐️ Recommended: ★★★★★Official site Located near Harajuku and Kitasando, the SAMURAI EXPERIENCE is a rare chance to learn real sword techniques in a professional indoor setting. Led by expert sword choreographers (called “tate-shi”), participants wear traditional […]
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