Japan From Here
Japan travel, checked against Japanese sources.
Japan Autumn Foliage 2026: Nikkō Late October, Kyoto December
Japan's autumn colour doesn't peak everywhere in November. Nikkō is late October, Kyoto runs into December. The real city-by-city timing.
Japan Cherry Blossom 2027: Full Bloom Is 7–10 Days Later
Bloom and full bloom are two different official dates, seven to ten days apart. Book the wrong one and you arrive to bare branches.
Japan Trip Cost 2026: Every Fare Sourced, One Number Missing
Every fare and hotel tax here comes from the operator or the city that charges it. The hotel rates don't — Japan publishes no official average.
Is the JR Pass Worth It in 2026? Usually Not. The Math:
The JR Pass rises to ¥53,000 on 1 October 2026 — but only through overseas agencies. The official site holds ¥50,000. The break-even math.
Where to Stay in Kyoto 2026: Hotel Tax Now Hits ¥10,000
Kyoto's lodging tax reaches ¥10,000 per person per night. It's charged on the room-only rate, which almost no English guide mentions.
Where to Stay in Osaka 2026: ¥500 Tax vs Kyoto's ¥10,000
Osaka's lodging tax stops at ¥500 a night. Kyoto's goes to ¥10,000. Which Osaka area to book, and when Osaka is the wrong choice.
Where to Stay in Tokyo 2026: Pick Your Airport First
Tokyo's hotel tax is ¥100–200 today. On 1 April 2027 it becomes 3% of the room rate. Which area to book, and what the change will cost.