Japan Travel Smart

The two most sacred locations in Japan—visited back-to-back

What are my impressions of the two most important places in the Shinto religion after having visited them back-to-back? I'll let you know if they're worth it on this epis

Profound solitude: Traveling solo in Japan (and other assorted thoughts)

On this episode, we offer candid commentary about the ups and downs of solo travel in Japan. In addition to that, we note about how the weather affects your impression of

9 unsung marvels of Japanese cuisine to try on your visit

This episode exists because there are really popular dishes in Japan that need a bigger international spotlight, including Western-inspired and regional staples. These ar

Tokyo as I enjoy it

This time around, I finally decide to cover Tokyo without going into the obvious. Actually, we are throwing out the guidebook for this one, because it's all about how I p

Hacking the Japan travel experience

Sit back and tune in to another carefully crafted episode of JTS with unconventional tricks and tips inspired from personal experience alone to vastly enhance anyone's in

Ultimate pre-travel checklist for Japan!

In the age of increasingly ambitious and complex independent travel itineraries, it becomes incredibly easy to mess up your best possible travel plans. Take every scenari

The underrated prefecture right beside Kyoto and Osaka

Be inspired to visit more than one popular destination in Hyogo, a stone’s throw away from Kyoto and Osaka! Support the podcast! Buy me a coffee at Ko-Fi! Kobe -Nada

Around Japan with just a carry-on

Traveling in Japan for weeks at a time while packing just a carry-on: Is it feasible or even possible? Find out on this episode of JTS! Support the podcast! Buy me a co

The konbini AND Japanese supermarket geek-out episode!

It's time to get you up to speed with the wonderful world of Japanese convenience stores, as well as the relatively low key supermarket offerings. What sets them apart? H

[RE-RECORDED] Smart to visit: A sampler escapade on the revitalized coast of Iwate

Dare to head away from the well trodden path and go into coastal Iwate for a different Japan! Find out how we did it on this episode of Japan Travel Smart! Support the

[RE-RECORDED] 9 understated Japan survival tips

What is some travel advice applicable to Japan that no one is really bringing up? Find out in this episode! Support the podcast! Buy me a coffee at Ko-Fi! Business con

[RE-RECORDED] My 9 favorite online resources for where to visit and what to do in Japan!

So you’ve decided to do your own travel itinerary planning for your trip to Japan. But where should you start? Here are some websites that will make it easy. Support th

An update about upcoming episodes

Support the podcast! Buy me a coffee at Ko-Fi! Business contact and listener feedback: japantravelsmart@gmail.com X (Twitter) Instagram Music by Reza Alvin from Pix

The easiest way to include Shikoku in ANY Japan Travel plan!

Were you already thinking you'd need to skip Shikoku on a trip around Japan? Think again! I'll tell you how easy it is to include the island region of Shikoku on ANY Japa

Japan forever changed: Thoughts on the state of tourism and travel in Japan

Japan has changed so much ever since we first started visiting. Some of these changes really alter the travel situation for better or for worse! Find out what changes act

9 insane tourist traps of Tokyo (and our perfectly sane alternatives)

These Tokyo attractions and experiences are popular, but are they worth it in 2025 and beyond? Be sure to listen in before signing off on that Tokyo travel plan! Busines

The well-trodden Nara and the hidden Nara

Nara is not a "day trip". Here's why. Nara Park, Todaiji Temple and Kasuga Shrine Heijo Palace Site, Toshodaiji Temple, Yakushiji Temple Imaicho Town, Tanzan Shrine, H

9 more tips for saving money on a Japan trip!

Don’t waste your travel budget on simple mistakes that can be prevented by listening to JTS! We’ve got 9 more ways to stretch your yennies on this episode of the show! 

Smart to visit: Northern Tohoku - Aomori and Akita prefectures

We continue our Smart to Visit series by returning to the Tohoku region on one of our most eclectic trip reports yet! It’s time to introduce Aomori and Akita prefectures!

Learn from my most egregious mistakes traveling in Japan!

Everyone screws up traveling in Japan. But especially me. Find out more on this episode. Business contact and listener feedback: japantravelsmart@gmail.com X (Twitter)