Author: ko

Japan Post accepts 2027 New Year cards from 20 December 2026; post by 27 December for 1 January delivery. Cards posted earlier arrive in December.

Osawa Onsen's self-catering wing in Hanamaki charges ¥3,780–4,380 per person a night to share a room. Futon, pillow, kotatsu and stove are each billed per day.

From 1 November 2026, Japan's tax-free shops charge full price. You get the tax back only after a customs kiosk check before bag drop, within 90 days of buying.

There is no direct bus from Yakusa to Korankei in November 2026. Take a regular bus from Josui, Toyotashi or Higashi-Okazaki, and check the weekend cuts.

Sagano Romantic Train's current cars retire on 29 December 2026. Seats go on sale online at midnight Japan time one month ahead; ¥880 one way.

Shirakawa-go's 2027 light-up runs on 11, 17, 24 and 31 January, reservation only. The inn lottery closes 31 October; bus tours from Takayama start at ¥13,000.

Tori-no-Ichi at Otori Shrine in Asakusa runs 00:00–24:00 on 7 and 19 November 2026. Why people buy kumade rakes, haggle, then clap when the deal is done.

The Yokoo House night tour runs 17:00–18:00 on 17 weekend evenings, 1 Nov–27 Dec 2026. After it, only two boats leave Ieura: 18:40 to Uno, 19:40 to Shodoshima.

From 1 April 2027, Tokyo taxes stays of ¥13,000+ per person a night at 3% of the pre-tax room price, minpaku and dorm-style lodging included.

Beppu City's map lists 48 neighbourhood baths open to visitors, 13 at ¥100. Members-only baths are marked green. Prices, hours and what to bring.