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Formed through centuries of Mount Fuji's volcanic activity, the Fuji Five Lakes stand as a testament to nature's artistry and the cultural significance of Japan's landscape. These five legendary lakes—Yamanakako, Kawaguchiko, Saiko, Shojiko, and Motosuko—hold a profound connection to the region's folklore and offer a serene retreat in the heart of Yamanashi Prefecture. Just an hour or two's journey from the bustling city of Tokyo, these lakes offer a unique blend of tranquility, natural beauty, and cultural significance. Yamanakako (山中湖) Photo from Yamanakako Tourist Association Tucked closest to Mount Fuji, Yamanakako boats a panoramic view of the mountain. A playground for nature enthusiasts, the lake hosts activities like fishing, boating, and camping. As the sun dips low from late October to February, photographers and tourists rush to the area to admire the famous "Diamond Fuji" spectacle. During this magical moment, the sun's descent aligns perfectly with the mountain's peak, casting a dazzling diamond-like glimmer across the freshwater. Kawaguchiko (河口湖) The reflection of Mount Fuji in Lake Kawaguchi, seen from the Misaka Pass in the Kai Province, by Katsushika Hokusai Kawaguchiko has earned its reputation as a prime tourist destination, with a charming fusion of hotels, inns, and souvenir shops lining its shores. Easily accessible and cherished by both domestic and international travelers, Kawaguchiko presents a rich tapestry of seasonal delights, from the delicate pinks of cherry blossoms in spring to the fiery orange of autumn. It serves as an ideal starting point for those looking to hike or climb the iconic Mount Fuji. Saiko (西湖） Photo from Fuji Five Lakes Tourism Federation Nestled amid the embrace of mountains and the Aokigahara forest, Lake Saiko exudes an air of mystery and spiritual allure. Locals believe it to be the realm of the "Aoki Dragon God," an embodiment of the water deity. Largely untouched by the tourist crowds, Lake Saiko seems to possess a unique vitality, perhaps due to its relative obscurity. Situated along the border of the Aokigahara Forest—often referred to as the Sea of Trees—Saiko offers an invitation to challenge its hiking trails, explore its hidden caves, and immerse in the serenity of untouched nature. Shojiko (精進湖) While Shojiko is the smallest among the five lakes, it offers an experience of seclusion and intimacy that is unmatched. A haven for those seeking a respite from the world's hustle, this lake's serenity provides a healing experience. Photographers are drawn to Shojiko to capture the captivating sight of Kodaki-Fuji—Mount Fuji seemingly embracing the smaller Mount Omuro—a scene that embodies the harmony of nature. Motosu (本栖湖） If the view of Motosuko seems familiar, it's because this lake is depicted on the back of the 1000 yen bill! With depths that delve beyond the other four, Motosuko reveals crystal-clear waters that invite exploration. A haven for kayaking and canoeing, it showcases the pristine beauty of nature in its purest form. The Fuji Five Lakes stand as a testament to the grandeur of nature. This enchanting region in Yamanashi offers bountiful experiences for travelers seeking both adventure and tranquility.

At Ohako, we've had the privilege of exploring so many restaurants all across Japan. From Sushi, Wagyu, Desserts and more, its safe to say that our taste buds are well versed in Japanese cuisine. That being said here are 5 places that stood out to us throughout our travels in 2023 (so far)! 1.Hozenji Yamakazu Hozenji Yamakazu is home to an unagi master that has been grilling unagi for over 30 years and serves the best eel bowls! They have different bowls ranging from the full eel bowl to the eel and salmon roe combo. Our personal favorite was the eel and uni combo. In addition to the masterfully crafted food, Yamakazu is located in the Hozenji shrine so you can truly immerse yourself in the culture of Japan. Definitely a must try if you’re in Osaka! Location: Hozenji Yamakazu 1 Chome-1-16 Nanba, Chuo Ward, Osaka, 542-0076 Number: 06-6211-5800 2.Yakiniku Mafia Yakiniku Mafia Ikebukuro serves the freshest Wagyu beef in Tokyo, Japan! Here, they serve the rare "Ozaki" beef. Ozaki beef is an exclusive Wagyu variety from the Miyazaki Prefecture in Japan. Named after the dedicated farmer, Mr. Muhenaru Ozaki, these Japanese black cattle are raised using cutting-edge techniques, resulting in beautifully marbled, light, and sweet meat that's simply irresistible. On top of the quality Wagyu, this isn't your traditional Yakinuku spot. Here, the lively staff will theatrically guide you through the course that you pick! If you want amazing quality Wagyu and a genuine experience to go along with it, this place is a must visit. Location: 〒171-0022 Tokyo, Toshima City, Minamiikebukuro, 1 Chome−26−6, The Sh One, 7F Number: 03-3981-1129 3.Gion Wagyu Ryotei Bungo Gion Wagyu Ryotei Bungo in Kyoto, Japan offers a rare experience to be able to hang out with a Maiko and it was a once in a lifetime opportunity! A "Maiko" is an apprentice Geisha, meaning they're trained to showcase traditional Japanese instruments such as the shamisen, along with captivating songs and dances. On top of the incredible performance they serve an amazing full course wagyu meal. A must visit if you want to experience the cultural arts of Japan. Contact: @Gion.wagyu_ryotei_bungo on Instagram for more information and booking! Location: Gion Wagyu Ryotei Bungo, 〒605-0087 Kyoto, Higashiyama Ward, Motoyoshicho, 56 4.New York Dou New York Dou has been run by a family in Nagasaki, Japan for four generations. Here, they've been making the best castella for nearly 100 years! The first generation master learned his craft in New York in the early 1900's and brought his skills back home to Japan. In addition to honing their renowned castella craft, they also created a new Castella Ice Cream dessert that you have to try in their store! This place is a must visit for those with a sweet tooth. Location: 3-17 Furukawamachi, Nagasaki, 850-0851 5.Sushi Sakaba Teppei Sushi Sakaba Teppei is an Omakase sushi experience for the insanely affordable price of 30 USD. Located in Osaka, Japan, they have a wide variety of great quality sushi options. However, in addition to being an affordable Omakase place, we recommend stopping by here to experience their innovative seafood dishes developed by their sushi master. This isn't an experience you would be able to get anywhere else! Definitely a must try if you’re in Osaka! Location: Japan, 〒530-0002 Osaka, Kita Ward, Sonezakishinchi, 1 Chome−5−18 零北新地ビル 6F Contact: 050-5589-4709

If you're traveling to Japan then chances are you're here to try Japanese food! What better place to do it than an "All You Can Eat" restaurant! Here at Ohako, we've had to opportunity to try out quite a few places, so if you're looking somewhere affordable to cram your palette in one sitting with Wagyu, Sushi and of course drinks we have some great recommendations for you! 1.Sushi Number 8 If you're looking for a variety of things to try, (but especially sushi) then Sushi Number 8 is the place to go. This place is one of the most popular all you can eat restaurants in Osaka, which offers high quality wagyu beef and sushi all for under 50 USD! The sushi selection ranges with 50 options and don't be fooled, even at this price the Wagyu is beautifully marbled. With everything on the menu made fresh in the kitchen and a private room to enjoy your meal, this is a great place to go! Name: Sushitoshabushabunambaeito Location: 6-1 Doyamacho Kita Ward Osaka, 530-0027 大阪府 大阪市 北区 堂山町 6-1 3F Number: +81-6-6766-4151 2.Yakiniku Lab If you're a meat lover then Yakiniku Lab in Osaka is a must try! Here, you can try cuts like sirloin, harami and tongue all for under 50 USD. This place lets you try as much high quality Wagyu as humanly possible. Its location is right by Dotonburi in Osaka, so you'll be able to burn off all of the extra calories walking by the riverside after you eat! Name: Yakiniku Lab Nanba Location: Nakano Bldg., 2f 3-chōme-7-22 Nanba, Chip Ward, Osaka, 542-0076 中央区難波3-7-22中野ビル2F Osaka Number: 060-6760-4766 3.Torisakana The unique name of this place literally translates to "Bird and Fish" and it couldn't be a more spot on way to describe Torisakana. Here they serve all you can eat seasonal fresh sushi, shabu-shabu and yakitori all for only 41 USD. We also recommend that you try their jumbo sized rice bowls that come with a variety of toppings like Tempura! They also have another all you can eat course starting from 20 USD if you want to start small. To get a free private room you just have to make a reservation beforehand or send them a DM! Name: Torisakana Location: 〒530-0018 Osaka, Kita Ward, Komatsubaracho, 1−10 梅田パルビル ６Ｆ Contact: 050-1807-4535 4.Terumae Last but not least, if you and your friends are looking to have night to remember, Terumae has an insane all you can drink deal! For only 3 dollars, for an hour you can have free reign over all of these faucets that provide an endless flow of drinks! Their food selection has a variety of Japanese and Western dishes so there's options for everyone. They have multiple locations around Tokyo and Nagoya, so the party can start just about anywhere. Kawasaki Location: 〒210-0006 Kanagawa, Kawasaki, Kawasaki Ward, Isago, 2 Chome−３−17 仲見世金井ビル B1F Phone: 050-3187-4445 Other locations: @terumae_kawasaki @terumae.shibuya @terumae_ikebukuro @terumae_kaihinmakuhari @terumae_tokorozawa @terumae.nagoya @terumae.sakae

Noodle Shop Rennosuke serves some of the healthiest ramen in Japan! The owner traveled across Japan learning the best techniques to make his noodles from scratch. It’s rare to find a shop like this that makes the noodles by hand every morning, especially ones that don't use preservatives and are served in a 100 percent seafood broth. If you like ramen but don't like the heavy feeling that comes with it, this is the spot for you! Name: Noodle Shop Rennosuke Location: 56-32 Murasakino Shimokashiwanocho, Kita Ward, Kyoto, 603-8313 Contact: 090-5789-9499

Yakiniku Mafia Ikebukuro serves the freshest Wagyu beef in Tokyo, Japan! Here, they serve the rare "Ozaki" beef. Ozaki beef is an exclusive Wagyu variety from the Miyazaki Prefecture in Japan. Named after the dedicated farmer, Mr. Muhenaru Ozaki, these Japanese black cattle are raised using cutting-edge techniques, resulting in beautifully marbled, light, and sweet meat that's simply irresistible. On top of the quality Wagyu, this isn't your traditional Yakinuku spot. Here, the lively staff will theatrically guide you through the course that you pick! It’s rare to find a staff as personable and entertaining as them with the quality food that they serve. If you want one of a kind Wagyu and a genuine experience to go along with it, this place is a must visit. Location: 〒171-0022 Tokyo, Toshima City, Minamiikebukuro, 1 Chome−26−6, The Sh One, 7F Number: 03-3981-1129

This Cookie Cafe has the sweetest origin story! Cookie Lab was started by an ex-bodybuilder and his wife to fulfill her lifelong dream of owning a sweets shop. They have a variety of sweets but the the Matcha Cookie Dough was our favorite! All of the items here are made from scratch so you can really taste the time and passion that they put into their treats. If you're looking for something to satisfy your sweet tooth in Osaka, this place is a must visit!!! Name: Cookie Lab Location: 〒541-0056 Osaka, Chuo Ward, Kyutaromachi, 3 Chome−1−27 ヒグチビル 1階 HUB kitchen内 Instagram: @cookie_lab.jp

Ahoy, adventure seekers and anime enthusiasts! Hop aboard alongside Luffy and the Straw Hat Pirates in the Sunny Train and journey through the heart of Kumamoto, the hometown of ONE PIECE's creator, Eiichiro Oda. Photo from Yahoo! Japan As part of the "ONE PIECE Kumamoto Revival Project" initiative, the ONE PIECE X Minami-Aso Railway collaboration train began operation on July 22, commemorating the revival of railway operations after the 2016 Kumamoto earthquake. Photo from Kumamoto Revival Project Step into the MT-3010 cars modeled after the pirate ship Thousand Sunny, as it runs through the rich natural scenery of Minamiaso. Keep your eyes peeled for the Straw Hat Pirates on the train, expressing their heartfelt gratitude for their fans' restoration and recovery efforts following the earthquake. Sunny Train Operation Schedule: Operating period: Approximately one year, starting from Saturday, July 22, 2023 Operating section: Between Tatsuno Station and Takamori Station Days of operation: 3 round trips daily on Thursdays, Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays. (Daily service is scheduled from August 10 (Thu.) to 15 (Tue.) Fare: (one-way) Adult: 490 yen | Children: 250 yen Note: Regular trains do not accept reservations. In addition to the train service, various fun events will be held at Minamiaso Railway stations and along the railway line. Keep an eye out for a special surprise - the Straw Hat Pirates have joined your voyage! Can you spot Luffy's straw hat or Zoro's iconic stance hidden along the landscape? It's an interactive treasure hunt that adds to the excitement. Also, don't miss the chance to take photos with the Sunny Train panels located at Tatsuno and Takamori stations to commemorate your journey. Through these projects, Kumamoto hopes to attract more visitors to the Minami Aso area and promote the genki spirit of the locals to every corner of the globe. An adventure of a lifetime awaits - are you ready?

Mujurin hotel in Kyoto has the biggest private onsen we've ever seen! With large, spacious areas there were 4 floors dedicated to its guests with modern yet traditional Japanese decor. Mujurin provides Yukata pajamas and even has a rock art garden in the bedroom! If you're traveling with a group of friends and looking for a unique Japan stay, this place is a must visit! Location: Mujurin, Kyoto Japan Contact: Check out @mujurin.official on Instagram for reservation details

If you're in search of authentic Spanish cuisine in Tokyo look no further than XIRINGUITO Escribà. Here, they serve some of the best Paella that we've ever had. If you're unfamiliar with Paella its one of the best known rice dishes in Spain, where the rice absorbs a wide variety of flavors from the broth its cooked in. Here, they cook the Paella for 17 minutes under an open fire so that it can absorb the Umami flavor of the broth. We also recommend that you try the "Airbag," a crispy bread with Spanish Iberiko ham! Location: Shibuya Stream 3, 3-21-3, Shibuya, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo Contact: 03-5468-6300

Due to the the world-wide semiconductor shortage JR East announced (June 2nd, 2023) that they will temporarily stop the sale of "Suica" and "PASMO" cards because of production shortages. Starting from August 2, 2023 both unregistered and registered Suica cards will be discontinued. However, if you are visiting Japan you will still be able to purchase a card. As of now (August, 8th 2023) there is no date of when sale will be re-continued. Since only the production of these cards has been halted, current card holders will be unaffected. What are Unregistered and Registered Transportation Cards? Registered transportation cards were previously created at the time of purchase. When buying a card, you registered it by inputting your personal information so that if it is lost, you have a better chance of it being returned. Additionally, if that card is lost, you would be able to transfer the remaining balance to a new card. Unregistered cards look like the ones pictured in this article, with no name printed on the card and no personal information attached to them. These are the items that are being discontinued. What is still available? Reissuance services for lost cards will remain unchanged. Moreover, the sale of specialized cards like "WelcomeSuica" and "PASMO PASSPORT," geared towards short-term foreign visitors in Japan, will remain available. Additionally, the Suica App is unaffected, though it is only available on the Japanese App Store. As of August 2nd, you can only get Welcome Suica cards from specific locations. These include: JR-EAST Travel Service Center at Narita Airport Terminal 1 and Narita Airport Terminal 2,3 Stations Vending machines at Narita Airport Terminal 1, Narita Airport Terminal 2,3 Haneda Airport Terminal 2, and Haneda Airport Terminal 3 Stations Due to the shortage, purchases are limited to one Welcome Suica per person.

Furuya Yamamoto might take the title as Tokyo's most interesting man. After quitting his corporate advertising job in 2011, he took to Mexico without speaking any Spanish in search of his life's purpose. Now, he dedicates everyday to joyfully delivering the most authentic Mexican tacos to Tokyo through 3Hermanos Tacos. Photos by Keegan Hasegawa When arriving at the Omote-sando food trucks in Tokyo Yamamoto-san stands out among the rest, joyfully advertising his tacos in English, Japanese and of course Spanish. His outgoing personality is intoxicating and his passion is reflected in his food. We at Ohako had the opportunity to sit down and talk to him about what made him so dedicated and happy about tacos. Yamamoto-san left Japan for Mexico in search of a challenge and his life's purpose. At this point in time he hadn't even tried a taco, nor did he speak Spanish. However, after spending several years there he fell in love with the country, its people and of course its tacos. Contrary to what you may think, he didn't move beck to Tokyo with the intention of selling tacos. In 2018 he had to move back to Japan to take care of parents but quickly found that he missed the vibrant flavors of Mexican cuisine. Unable to find a place in Tokyo that satisfied that desire, he decided to take it upon himself to share what he loves with the rest of Tokyo. In 2020 Yamamoto-san began selling his tacos to the public. It went incredibly well, which led to the purchase of a food truck. A lot of chefs in big cities will continuously try and evolve their menu with new trendy fusions. Yamamoto-san on the other hand focuses on delivering the most authentic tacos possible by practicing "Kaizen." Kaizen is the Japanese art of continuous improvement, meaning that through practice and passion he only aims to try and deliver true Mexican tacos. There is truly no other like Yamamoto-san. His journey from Japan to mastering the art of making tacos in Mexico has infused his food with an unparalleled passion. Beyond the delectable tacos, stopping by his truck give you the chance to engage with this fascinating individual that truly sets this taco truck apart. So, don't miss the opportunity to savor mouthwatering tacos while sharing stories and laughter with Yamamoto-san. Trust me, it's an encounter you won't regret!

Japanese festivals, otherwise known as "Omatsuri" are perhaps the easiest and most authentic way to completely immerse yourself in Japanese culture. These festivals are not specific to one holiday or topic, Omatsuri's across the country range from Cherry Blossom festivals to even more bizarre ones such as the Penis Festival in Yokohama meant to celebrate fertility. Overview Omatsuri's originated thousands of years ago as a way to honor Shinto gods and are still typically carried out in association with a specific shrine today. There is also no specific time frame for when these festivals can occur, with festivals such as the Snow Festival in Sapporo taking place in the peak of winter. However, the majority of them happen in the late Summer or the early Autumn, with many taking place during the Obon holiday in August. Bon-Odori Bon Odori is a traditional dance perfomed at Omatsuri's during the Obon holiday. There is no specific Obon dance, with over a thousand different variations. This dance is meant to welcome back spirits believed to come back to visit during the holiday. There is no need to learn these dances beforehand, simply follow the moves of the "Daihyo" standing in the tower. Participation in Bon-Odori is encouraged! See out previous article on Obon for more information and Abi's video below for a first-hand experience! Mikoshi Depending on the festival you are at, there may be a parade! Here, you might see "Mikoshi," which is a small portable Shinto Shrine carried by "Hanten." This Mikoshi is used to temporarily carry the God around the festival. You might see the "Hanten" swaying the Mikoshi around, this is meant to amuse the God carried inside. Taiko-dai In addition to the Mikoshi, there is the "Taiko-dai" which is a heavier portable shrine that is used to carry around the God. These floats might be carried by participants, similar to a Mikoshi or they may be pulled by the individuals instead. Inside there is typically a person hitting a Taiko drum in unison with the men below. Hanabi (Fireworks) In the summertime there will often be fireworks associated with Omatsuri's. The word "Hana" means "flower" which is reflected in the brilliant floral-like displays against the night sky. This is a staple of Japanese Festivals and a must see, if you get the chance! Yatai Despite the different nature of festivals you will most always find "Yatai." "Yatai" are street booths stalls that sell sweets, savory foods, toys and even carnival-like games that you can play. The variety of Yatai are perhaps one of the best things about visiting Omatsuri's Different Kinds of Festivals Its impossible to list all of the festivals in Japan but here are a few popular ones that you might be able to visit! Natsu-matsuri Natsu-matsuri is a general term used for Summer festivals. People often wear "Yukata" to these festivals which visually, are similar to Kimono's but are instead made with lighter fabric to combat the summer heat. Obon Obon is holiday which celebrates the annual return of ones deceased ancestor's spirits. There are Obon specific "Natsu-matsuri" that take place during the week long holiday with activities such as the much talked about "Obon-odori." See our article on Obon Tanabata Tanabata is a holiday that takes place on the 7th day of the 7th month of the year. This holiday is celebrated by writing ones wish on a piece of paper and hanging it on a piece of bamboo. These bamboo become wonderful collective displays of a communities dreams and ambitions. Tanabata festivals are not limited to one day but can take place from July to August. Sapporo Snow Festival The Sapporo Snow Festival is a unique festival in Hokkaido, Japan. It typically takes place in early February and features massively intricate snow sculptures. These displays are usually a part of a Snow Sculpture Contest with winning sculptures ranging from famous athletes to even famous castles. If you're a winter person, this is a must visit festival. Check out @kojimochi 's experience below! Oshougatsu (New Years) The Japanese New Year is perhaps the most important holiday in all of Japan. Most people will have December 29th to January 3rd off from work where they will spend time with their family. The new year marks a completely fresh start where people are encouraged to leave the troubles of last year behind. With religious connotations there are a number of festivals that happen surrounding the celebration of the new year.