JAPAN

Travel

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Time to vote for Stars and Stripes’ Best of the Pacific 2025

A new year is upon us, and it’s time once again to turn your attention to the yearly tradition unlike any other – Best of the Pacific voting season!

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Capsule hotels a tight fit but affordable option in Japan

Capsule hotels (also called pod hotels) are very popular in Japan. You see them in most cities, and a lot of people really like them for overnight stays because they are relatively cheap (¥3000 – ¥4000).

Photo Of a cruiser sheared through the river.

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Spring in Japan: First-class cherry blossom experience along Tokyo’s Meguro River

If you’re seeking a first-class sakura experience, look no further! Reservations for the exclusive Meguro River Cherry Blossom Viewing CHANDON Cruise—a collaboration between Anniversary Cruises and premium sparkling wine Chandon—opened at the end of January.

Photo Of flyer promoting Pokemon GO. four characters can be seen.

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Fun in Japan: Pokémon GO at EXPO 2025 Osaka-Kansai from April 13 - Oct. 13

The Pokémon Company has announced an exciting Pokémon GO event at the 2025 Osaka-Kansai Expo, scheduled from April 13 to October 13, 2025.

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Where to see Japan’s sumo wrestlers

Sumo wrestling comes with a history spanning back thousands of years, and is so revered that it has earned the title of Japan’s National Sport.

Photo Of the japanese emperor is waving his hands. February’s calendar whos emperor’s birthday and observed day.

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Japan to celebrate emperor’s birthday Feb. 23

While Americans celebrate the first President’s birthday on Feb. 17, a week later Japan will also be celebrating their own emperor’s birthday on Feb. 23 as one of the 16 Japanese national holidays. 

Photo Of Commander, Fleet Activities Yokosuka’s (CFAY) mascot Yokopon, left, and U.S. Navy Lt. Cmdr. Seth Koenig, public affairs officer for Commander, Task Force 70 (CTF 70), pose for a photo with a festival goer during the 75th Annual Sapporo Snow Festival.

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U.S. Navy Snow Team sculpts F-35C at Sapporo Snow Festival

The Naval Air Facility (NAF) Misawa Snow Team, made up of Sailors from Naval Air Facility Misawa and tenant commands, participated in the 75th Sapporo Snow Festival from January 28 to February 8 in Sapporo, Japan, marking the Navy’s 40th year of participation.

Photo Of A blooming plum flower.

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Akebonoyama Plum Festival 2025 through March 9: Celebrate spring’s impending arrival in Chiba

As winter fades, the arrival of plum blossoms signals the start of spring in Japan, bringing a burst of color to the landscape. At Chiba Prefecture’s Akebonoyama Agricultural Park the plum trees are in full bloom from late February to early March, offering a stunning display of over 100 trees across 25 varieties.

Photo Of Bus driver sitting in his bus on tour.

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Transit Guide: Japan Bus Pass: Travel far and wide with this cost efficient pass

Whether you’re chasing cherry blossoms, exploring iconic temples and shrines, or discovering a new city, the Japan Bus Pass is a budget friendly way to experience Japan to the fullest.

Photo Of a woman taking photos in the planetarim.

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Sakura Welcome Dome 2025 in Japan March 1 - April 14: Planetarium blossoms without worries about weather or pollen

Starting on Saturday, March 1st, 2025, all five Konica Minolta Planetariums in Japan—located in Yurakucho, Ikebukuro, Oshiage, Yokohama, and Nagoya—will host a special cherry blossom event.

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Exploring Japan: 6 reasons traditional Japanese hotels (ryokan) rock!

Ryokan, as traditional Japanese hotels are known, can be called old-fashioned Japanese inns, and are found all over Japan, especially in hot springs resorts.

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Speakin’ Japanese: Doll dialogue

“Kono hinakazari wo mite kudasai.” 今日は雛祭りです!= Today is Girls’ Day/Doll Festival!

Photo Of Himeji castle with clear blue sky background.

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Entry to Himeji Castle increases from 2026: The new fees will apply to all non-local residents

Himeji Castle is often hailed as one of Japan’s most beautiful and historically significant landmarks, and it draws millions of visitors each year.

Photo Of Eitaro begins to dance.

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A day out in Ota Ward, Tokyo: Ota Ward is home to Haneda Airport—and a whole lot more!

Join us on a journey to explore the surprising attractions Ota Ward has to offer.

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