Author: Simon Way

Discover how rice shapes Japanese language, culture, and cuisine. Learn the differences between kome, gohan, and raisu, explore popular dishes, key rice varieties, and tips for cooking authentic Japanese rice at home.

Enjoy hanami dango, Japan’s famous tri-colored rice dumplings eaten during cherry blossom season. Soft, chewy, and lightly sweet, learn their history, flavors, and where to try them this spring.

Discover Hakone, a serene getaway from Tokyo, with mountains, hot springs, Lake Ashi cruises, Hakone Shrine, and Owakudani Valley. Check out my 1-2 day itineraries!