Japan guides — NomadMinh

Japan

Trains run on time. You won't. Plan mornings tight. Leave afternoons open. The konbini egg sandwich is non-negotiable.

the tower looks better from below

Tokyo Tower from below against a blue sky — japan

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7 guides

A sushi chef in whites working behind the counter in Tokyo

Tokyo · Aug 2026

I ate alone twice a day in Tokyo. Here's the only etiquette that matters.

The dining etiquette cheat sheet for eating alone in Japan. What to do walking in, at the counter, and on the way out, including the place with no English menu.

5 min read

Shibuya crossing at night, traffic and crowds under neon signs

Tokyo · Jul 2026

I rushed my first Tokyo trip. Here's what I'd redo.

Part 1 of the travel stuff that didn't go viral from this trip. None of my first Tokyo trip was bad. I just moved too fast to keep any of it.

5 min read

A traditional bowl of whisked matcha green tea

Japan · Jul 2026

The Matcha Taste Map: Navigating Japan's Green Tea Obsession

A first-timer's guide to understanding matcha grades, finding the right flavor profile, and escaping the overhyped cafes for a quiet cup.

6 min read

A bright, neon-lit shopping street in Tokyo

Japan · Jul 2026

The 'Buy It When You See It' Rule (and What Belongs in Your Japan Survival Kit)

How to avoid overconsumption in Japan while stocking up on the pharmacy and konbini essentials that will actually save your trip.

8 min read

An airplane wing above the clouds at golden hour

Japan · Jun 2026

Getting into Japan is easy. Leaving isn't.

The exit nobody plans: shipping your suitcase ahead, the tax-free rules that changed, Suica refunds, and the departure tax hiding in your ticket.

7 min read

A Tokyo street at night, lit by signs and storefronts

Tokyo · May 2026

Three things that made Tokyo easier. One that didn't.

Tokyo is a series of small calls. Rooftops when it gets loud, exit codes before you walk, an app for your bags, and the one walk I'd take back.

6 min read

Japan · Jan 2026

Lost in Japan (on purpose)

A first-timer's Japan beyond the checklist: how to build days with room in them, trains without panic, and the convenience-store food worth planning around.

8 min read

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