Xiu Ting Wong, Author at TheSmartLocal Japan - Travel, Lifestyle, Culture & Language Guide

The Whales Of August: Cinematic Cocktail Bar Where Drinks Are Inspired By Movies

Looking for something different from the usual chuhais? The Whales Of August in Shibuya surprises you with movie-themed cocktails.

Find standard Japanese too easy? Try picking up grammar patterns and unique phrases that are unique to the Kansai dialect.

With lines forming even before they open their doors, Amam Dacotan is a rustic bakery in Tokyo with bakes as photogenic as their interior.

A salaryman mascot from Tokyo who suffers from back pain and gout? Name us a more relatable icon than Kamatora Kacho.

Live out your greatest Ponyo dream and spend a day at the charming Tomonoura, the old port town that inspired the Ghibli classic.

Just an hour by train from Hiroshima City, Onomichi is the perfect day trip with its historic temples, friendly stray cats, and local ramen.

Have an ocean drive like no other and enjoy a panoramic sea view while driving down Tsunoshima Bridge in Yamaguchi Prefecture.

Cruising down a river and admiring a stunning waterfall up close sounds like your thing? Visit Takachiho Gorge in Miyazaki Prefecture.

Think you know everything there is to know about Japanese supermarkets? Our guide will help you unlock new features and level up.

An avid book lover and a fan of Japanese architecture? Nakajima Library is the place to spend a quiet afternoon at.