Japanistry

975 posts
This website started as a hobby to explain photography (posts listed here), but over time expanded to provide (hopefully) useful information about Japan and the Japanese language. I also run edonoyu.com with a friend—a site that covers onsen in the Tokyo region.

Noh Theatre

With roots dating back to the 14th century, Noh is one of the world’s oldest forms of theatre.…

Kabuki Theatre

Whereas Noh theatre developed as a pastime for the more cultivated members of society, Kabuki, with its deliberately…

Sumo: The History & Rules

At first glance sumo is nothing if not bizarre: overweight men dressed in an enormous thong pushing each…

Baseball in Japan: How to Watch

Baseball is so well-rooted in Japan that it’s hard to believe the game’s origins lie abroad. Annual spectator…

Kawagoe

Known as “Little Edo”, Kawagoe (川越) was both a strategic post in the Kanto region and a key…

Tips on Etiquette & Customs in Japan

“Polite” and “Japan” are synonymous for many outside of the country, and it is true that by Western…

Japan Rail Pass

For visitors to Japan who intend to explore outside of Tokyo, the Japan Rail Pass is without doubt…

A Checklist Before Leaving for Japan

Check Your Visa Status Currently visa exemption arrangements are in place with 67 countries, and nationals from almost…

When is the Best Time to Visit Tokyo?

Whether it’s enjoying a picnic under the cherry blossoms or sitting in the intense silence before the clash…

Hokokuji Temple

Temple established in 1334 famous for its bamboo forest containing over 2,000 moso trees and Japanese tea house.

Kenchoji Temple

Important Zen Buddhist temple completed in 1273 with a viewpoint that over looks the Kamakura area.

Kamakura

Kamakura (鎌倉) is sometimes referred to as the Kyoto of Eastern Japan, Kamakura is a popular day-trip region…