For a Limited Time Only: Car Wi-Fi device rental for TOCOO! Customers. Available for All Brands and Vehicle Types Booked through TOCOO!
No Need to Worry About Data Limits!
Stress-Free Car Wi-Fi device Lets You Enjoy Maps, Videos, and Music Even While Traveling.
Car Wi-Fi device Details
Unlimited data usage during the rental period with no extra communication fees.
Supports up to 8 devices connected simultaneously.
Automatically connects to the best network among Japan’s four major carriers (docomo, au, softbank, rakuten) for outstanding stability.
USB/Type-C connection and Wi-Fi ready instantly when the engine is turned on.
Reliable and comfortable connection anywhere in Japan, even in mountainous areas.
If you connect the in-car Wi-Fi device to a smartphone or a mobile battery, you are welcome to use it as a Wi-Fi router even outside the vehicle.
Why Our Car Wi-Fi device Is Convenient
■ Kids quietly entertained by YouTube! Enjoy a comfortable, fuss-free drive.
■ Never get lost with Google Maps + translation apps! Peace of mind for foreign travelers.
■ Share your travel photos and videos on SNS instantly! Capture and share a picture-perfect trip in real time!
■ Connect up to 8 devices at once! Perfect for family and friends to use together!
■ Use it outside the car too with a mobile battery or similar power source! Stay connected in service areas and tourist spots!
How to Book
Proceed with your rental car reservation.
If the “Car Wi-Fi device” option is checked under “additional options” on the rental car booking form, you can apply for the service.
Please complete your reservation if all details are correct. ※ If you do not need this service, be sure to uncheck the box. ※ An optional insurance plan for the device is also available (paid).
Pick-Up Location
You can pick up your device at convenience stores located inside international airports throughout Japan. (In some cases, pickup may be at convenience stores near the airport.)
Pick-Up Procedure
① After completing your reservation, a dedicated pick-up email will be sent 2days before your rental date.
② When you open the dedicated URL included in the pick-up email, a QR code will be displayed.
③ Show the QR code to the convenience store staff to receive your package.
Return Procedure
On the rental car return day, simply place the in-car Wi-Fi device into the included return envelope and drop it in a mailbox.
How to Use Car Wi-Fi device
Simply connect the device to your car’s USB port — no setup required. Then, check the SSID and KEY printed on the back of the device and connect your smartphone or other devices to the Wi-Fi. With included USB adapters (Type-A and Type-C), it’s compatible with any car model. A cigarette lighter adapter is also included.
Connect to USB Port (Recommended) Use the included USB cable to connect the device to your car’s USB port (usually located near the center console or dashboard) and use it while charging.
Using the Cigarette Socket (Accessory Power) If your car does not have a USB port, you can power the device by plugging a USB charger into the cigarette socket.
Important Notes
Reservations of Car Wi-fi device Rental can be made from 180 days before the car return date and to 10 days before the car pick up date. If you wish to make an additional application, please contact us via the inquiry form at least 9 days before the car pick up date. Additional applications made within 9 days of the rental start date will not be accepted.
If Car Wi-Fi device is not returned by the specified date (the same day as the rental car return) via mailbox drop-off, a late fee of 750 yen per device per day will be charged.
if Car Wi-Fi device is damaged or lost, the customer will be responsible for any damages. (23,980 yen/device)
By purchasing Wi-Fi insurance, you are fully covered in case of damage or loss. (Insurance fee: 220 yen/device/day)
Some airports have multiple convenience stores within the terminal buildings. Please make sure to check the location of the specific convenience store designated by TOCOO! You will not be able to pick up Car Wi-Fi device at any other convenience store. If you are unable to receive Car Wi-Fi devicedue to personal reasons, a shipping fee of 2,200 yen per device will be charged.
Use of the service requires agreement to Car Wi-Fi device terms and conditions.
If you are picking up a TOCOO! ETC card or other reserved items after arriving at New Chitose Airport, please make sure to go to the designated Lawson store located at the Domestic Arrival area.
⚠️ Important Note: There are multiple Lawson stores inside New Chitose Airport, but only the one located at the “Domestic Terminal Arrival Floor” is authorized for TOCOO! item pick-up. If you go to the wrong Lawson, even if you present your QR Code, the staff will not be able to process your request, and you may not be able to receive your item.⸻
🚶How to Get There (1st Floor, Domestic Terminal Building)
After arriving at New Chitose Airport, proceed to the 1st Floor of the Domestic Terminal Building.
Follow the map to the correct Lawson store. You can identify it by nearby landmarks:
Located in front of ✅ MOS BURGER ✅ Next to Yoshinoya ✅ Close to Travelex (ANA counter) in the Domestic Arrival Lobby
Please make sure to follow these directions and visuals to ensure a smooth pick-up process.
❌Common Mistakes to Avoid: • Lawson in the International Terminal is not the designated store • Lawson in the Central Plaza or on other floors cannot assist with pick-up • If staff scan your QR Code and get an error, it likely means you are at the wrong store.
If you have any questions, feel free to ask the airport information counter or contact TOCOO!
When you arrived in Airport, have you ever worry about finding the place of Airport Rental Car Reception Counter? This article is for customers who need to find the Airport Rental Car Reception Counter after arriving at the Airport. Below we will guide you on how to find the Airport Rental Car Reception Counter without any problems after you arrive in Airport.
Narita Airport
There are two rental car counters inside Narita Airport. 1)Terminal 1 1F 2)Terminal 2 1F ※Please note that there is no rental car counter in Terminal 3.※
Terminal 1 1F
The red circle is the location of the rental car counter. Details are below.
※Customers using Terminal 3 should go to the counter in Terminal 2.
There are two ways to move from Terminal 3 to Terminal 2. ① Free bus from Terminal 3 to Terminal 2 ② On foot (It takes about 15 minutes on foot from the access passage (about 500m)
Below is an explanation of the rental car counter at ＜Terminal 1＞.
The rental car counter is on the first floor of Terminal 1.
The red circle number 14 is the location of the rental car counter.
At number 14, there are Toyota Rent a Car,Nissan Car Rental and Nippon Rental Car counters.
◆Customers who have made a reservation at Toyota Rent a Car Narita Airport outlet, Nippon Rental Car Narita Airport outlet, Nissan Car Rental Narita Airport outlet and Nissan Car Rental Narita Airport Terminal 1/2 outlet can use the counter on ＜the 1st floor of Terminal ＞.
＜Recommended route＞
①After completing the immigration procedures, go out from the arrival exit ⇒ Go to the rental car counter ⇒ Procedure at the counter ⇒ After the procedure, move to the meeting place for the transfer service ⇒ Use the transfer service to the outlet ⇒ Pick up car and go to the post office/Convenience store in the airport to pick up the ETC card(In case you want to pick up the car first)
②After completing the immigration procedures, go out from the arrival exit ⇒Receive ETC card at the post office/Convenience store in the airport ⇒Go to the rental car counter ⇒ Procedure at the counter ⇒ After the procedure, move to the meeting place for the transfer service ⇒ Use the transfer service to the outlet ⇒ Pick up car at rental car outlet(In case you want to pick up your ETC card first.)
**Recommended route after arriving at the airport in ① and ② are for customers who have an ETC card booking with TOCOO! (ToCoo! Option). -If you do not have an TOCOO! ETC card booking with TOCOO!, you do not need to pick up any packages at the post office/convenience store. -What ToCoo! Options are included in your reservation? You can check from the topic ■Tocoo option Fees & Delivery in your Reservation Confirmation email or check the details of your reservation on the website. You can check How to check the details of reservation confirmation email from the link below. https://x.gd/I50Go
★<Terminal 1> When arriving at domestic flights and South Wing After completing immigration procedures, exit the arrivals exit, turn left, and proceed toward the central exit C1. The rental car reception counter is located near the Central Exit C1.
★<Terminal 1> When arriving at the North Wing After completing the immigration procedures, exit the arrivals exit, turn right, and proceed toward the central exit C1. The rental car reception counter is located near the Central Exit C1.
Next is the contents of the rental car counter at <Terminal 2>
The rental car reception counter is on the 1st floor of Terminal 2.
The red circle number 9 is the location of the rental car reception counter.
At number 9, there are Toyota Rent a Car,Nissan Car Rental and Nippon Rental Car counters.
※Customers using Terminal 3 should go to the counter in Terminal 2.
There are two ways to move from Terminal 3 to Terminal 2. ① Free bus from Terminal 3 to Terminal 2 ② On foot (It takes about 15 minutes on foot from the access passage (about 500m)
◆Customers who have made a reservation at Toyota Rent a Car Narita Airport outlet, Nippon Rental Car Narita Airport outlet, Nissan Car Rental Narita Airport outlet and Nissan Car Rental Narita Airport Terminal 1/2 outlet can use the reception counter on＜ the 1st floor of Terminal 2＞.
★<Terminal 2>When arriving at Arrival Gate A After completing immigration procedures, exit the arrivals exit, turn right, and proceed toward Terminal 3. The car rental counters are located near the B Arrivals Gate.
★<Terminal 2>When arriving at Arrival Gate B After completing immigration procedures, exit the arrivals exit and there is a rental car reception counter on the right.
After arriving at the rental car reception counter, please contact the store using the direct dial phone at the reception counter. After contacting the rental car outlet, go to the transfer service meeting point and use the transfer service to the rental car outlet. After arriving at the rental car outlet and finishing pick up car procedures, let’s enjoy your trip in Japan!
■when returning the car
When the reserved return date comes, return the car to the reserved return time/outlet!
※Returning a car directly at Narita Airport is NOT allowed.Please return the car to the outlet where you made the reservation.
Toyota Rent a Car Narita Airport outlet, Nippon Rental Car Narita Airport outlet and Nissan Car Rental Narita Airport outlet have shuttle services to the airport after returning the car.
If you plan to return your car at Nissan Car Rental Narita Airport Terminal 1 outlet and Nissan Car Rental Narita Airport Terminal 2 outlet, please return your car at Nissan Car Rental Narita Airport outlet.There is a shuttle service from the store to the airport after returning the car.
Haneda Airport
There are three Airport Rental Car Reception Counters inside Haneda Airport. 1)Terminal 1 1F 2)Terminal 2 1F 3)Terminal 3 2F
Below we will guide you on how to find the Airport Rental Car Reception Counter in each Terminals.
Terminal 1 1F
Each color of marks is the place of Airport Rental Car Reception Counter. Here is the details.
Mark of number 5 is the place of Nissan Car Rental Haneda Airport outlet Reception Counter.
Mark of number 14 is the place of Toyota Rent a Car Haneda Airport outlet Reception Counter.
Mark of number 15 is the place of Nippon Rental Car Haneda Airport outlet Reception Counter.
＜Recommended route＞
①After completing the immigration procedures, go out from the arrival exit ⇒ Go to the rental car counter ⇒ Procedure at the counter ⇒ After the procedure, move to the meeting place for the transfer service ⇒ Use the transfer service to the outlet ⇒ Pick up car and go to Convenience store in the airport to pick up the ETC card(In case you want to pick up the car first)
②After completing the immigration procedures, go out from the arrival exit ⇒Receive ETC card at Convenience store in the airport ⇒Go to the rental car counter ⇒ Procedure at the counter ⇒ After the procedure, move to the meeting place for the transfer service ⇒ Use the transfer service to the outlet ⇒ Pick up car at rental car outlet(In case you want to pick up your ETC card first.)
**Recommended route after arriving at the airport in ① and ② are for customers who have an ETC card booking with TOCOO! (ToCoo! Option). -If you do not have an TOCOO! ETC card booking with TOCOO!, you do not need to pick up any packages at the post office/convenience store. -What ToCoo! Options are included in your reservation? You can check from the topic ■Tocoo option Fees & Delivery in your Reservation Confirmation email or check the details of your reservation on the website. You can check How to check the details of reservation confirmation email from the link below. https://x.gd/I50Go
★<Terminal 1>When arriving at the South Wing
➡When you head to Nissan Car Rental Haneda Airport outlet Reception Counter. After completing immigration procedures, exit the arrivals exit, proceed toward Arrival Exit 3, 4. The Nissan Car Rental Haneda Airport outlet Reception Counter is located near the Arrival Exit 4.
➡When you head to Toyota Rent a Car Haneda Airport outlet Reception Counter. After completing immigration procedures, exit the arrivals exit, turn right, and proceed toward Market Place in North Wing side. The Toyota Rent a Car Haneda Airport outlet Reception Counter is located near the Arrival Exit 5.
➡When you head to Nippon Rental Car Haneda Airport outlet Reception Counter. After completing immigration procedures, exit the arrivals exit, turn right, and proceed toward Market Place in North Wing side. The Nippon Rental Car Haneda Airport outlet Reception Counter is located near the Arrival Exit 6.
★<Terminal 1>When arriving at the North Wing
➡When you head to Nissan Car Rental Haneda Airport outlet Reception Counter. After completing immigration procedures, exit the arrivals exit, turn right, and proceed toward Market Place in South Wing side. The Nissan Car Rental Haneda Airport outlet Counter is located near the Arrival Exit 4.
➡When you head to Toyota Rent a Car Haneda Airport outlet Reception Counter. After completing immigration procedures, exit the arrivals exit, proceed toward Arrival Exit 5. The Toyota Rent a Car Haneda Airport outlet Counter is located near the Arrival Exit 5.
➡When you head to Nippon Rental Car Haneda Airport outlet Reception Counter. After completing immigration procedures, exit the arrivals exit, proceed toward Arrival Exit 6. The Nippon Rental Car Haneda Airport outlet Counter is located near the Arrival Exit 6.
Terminal 2 1F
Each color of marks is the place of Airport Rental Car Reception Counter. Here is the details.
Mark of number 4 is the place of Nippon Rental Car Haneda Airport outlet Reception Counter.
Mark of number 5 is the place of Nissan Car Rental Haneda Airport outlet Reception Counter.
Mark of number 21 is the place of Toyota Rent a Car Haneda Airport outlet Reception Counter.
★<Terminal 2> When arriving at the 1, 2, 3 Arrival Exit
➡When you head to Nippon Rental Car Haneda Airport outlet Reception Counter. After completing immigration procedures, exit the arrivals exit, proceed toward Meeting Point 1. The Nippon Rental Car Haneda Airport outlet Reception Counter is located between the Arrival Exit 2, 3.
➡When you head to Nissan Car Rental Haneda Airport outlet Reception Counter. After completing immigration procedures, exit the arrivals exit, proceed toward Meeting Point 1. The Nissan Car Rental Haneda Airport outlet Reception Counter is located near the Arrival Exit 3.
➡When you head to Toyota Rent a Car Haneda Airport outlet Reception Counter. After completing immigration procedures, exit the arrivals exit, turn left, and proceed toward Meeting Point 2. The Toyota Rent a Car Haneda Airport outlet Reception Counter is located near the Arrival Exit 5.
★<Terminal 2>When arriving at the 4, 5, 6 Arrival Exit
➡When you head to Nippon Rental Car Haneda Airport outlet Reception Counter. After completing immigration procedures, exit the arrivals exit, turn left, and proceed toward Meeting Point 1. The Nippon Rental Car Haneda Airport outlet Reception Counter is located between the Arrival Exit 2, 3.
➡When you head to Nissan Car Rental Haneda Airport outlet Reception Counter. After completing immigration procedures, exit the arrivals exit, turn left, and proceed toward Meeting Point 1. The Nissan Car Rental Haneda Airport outlet Reception Counter is located near the Arrival Exit 3.
➡When you head to Toyota Rent a Car Haneda Airport outlet Reception Counter. After completing immigration procedures, exit the arrivals exit, proceed toward Meeting Point 1. The Toyota Rent a Car Haneda Airport outlet Reception Counter is located near the Arrival Exit 5.
Terminal 3 2F
The red circle number 16 is the location of the Rental Car Reception Counter.
Nippon Rental Car Haneda Airport outlet Reception Counter, Nissan Car Rental Haneda Airport outlet Reception Counter, Toyota Rent a Car Haneda Airport outlet Reception Counter are placed at Haneda Airport Terminal 3 2F
After completing immigration procedures, exit the arrivals exit. The Airport outlet Reception Counters are located left side at the straight forward.
After arriving at the rental car reception counter, please contact the store using the direct dial phone at the reception counter. After contacting the rental car outlet, go to the transfer service meeting point and use the transfer service to the rental car outlet. After arriving at the rental car outlet and finishing pick up car procedures, let’s enjoy your trip in Japan!
■when returning the car
When the reserved return date comes, return the car to the reserved return time/outlet!
※Returning a car directly at Haneda Airport is NOT allowed.Please return the car to the outlet where you made the reservation.
Toyota Rent a Car Haneda Airport outlet, Nippon Rental Car Haneda Airport outlet and Nissan Car Rental Haneda Airport outlet have shuttle services to the airport after returning the car.
If you have any further questions, please do not hesitate to contact us via Inquiry Form below.
Difficult to book due to not knowing much about Japanese prefectures.
Want to return the car to a different outlet than the pick up outlet.How is it possible?
Which outlet is the nearest outlet to the Theme Park?
Have you had any problems like aboves when you book a car rental?
Hi! Let us introduce the tips to find your best car rental outlet by using ToCoo! SEARCH System. Hope these tips help you much to find your most convenient outlet.
On the TOP page of ToCoo! website, you can search cars and outlets by inputting the requirements in the columns of “Find car deals”. There are 2 ways to search, “Filter Search” and “Keyword Search”
a. Filter Search
You can set the pick up outlet from “Airport”s or “Area”s. When you choose “Airport”, all airports ToCoo! offers outlets throughout Japan are shown in the Pull-down menu. When you choose “Area”, the prefecture can be chosen on the Pull-down menu, then the district/area can be chosen.
Difficult to find my convenient outlet, since I do not know the prefectures of Japan. What should I do?
No worries! We offer you “Keyword Search” to find the outlet by a keyword. Let’s check the following!
b.Keyword Search
If you give a check on “Keyword Search” like the image below, the search method will be changed.
Let us explain how to use it!
①Please input the keyword of the LOCATION.
②Please choose the preferred location from the shown suggestions. (Choosing from the suggestions is necessary. Unless you choose the one from them, the result can not be shown) Please contact ToCoo!, in case your preferred location is not shown.(There might be no outlet in that area)
This time, we told you How to use ToCoo! SEARCh System. Hope this can help you to find the best outlet.
2. What is Drop Off?
Drop off option is the option to be able to return the car to a different outlet than the pick up outlet.
Please notes that there are outlets that do not accept drop off cars from different outlets.
a. How to add Drop Off option
You should add the Drop Off option beforehand in case you would like to drop off a car to the different outlet.
Once a reservation is confirmed, any alteration can not be made. If you would like to add the Drop Off option after the reservation is confirmed, please cancel the reservation and re-book with the option.
In case of searching via “Filter Search” Please UNCHECK “Same as pick up”, and choose “Airport” or “Area”. And choose the preferred one from the suggestions.
In case of searching via “Keyword Search” Please check “Return to different outlet” and input the preferred location name, then choose the one from the suggestions. (Choosing from the suggestions is necessary. Unless you choose the one from them, the result can not be shown) In case there is no result, it means there is no outlet accepting the Drop Off option. Please try with the other area to drop off.
Frequently searched outlets
Here is the list of the outlets frequently searched and inquired to ToCoo! Customer Support Team.
a. Nearest outlet to Tokyo Disney Resort
Chiba Prefecture, Urayasu area is the nearby area. Please search by “prefecture” as Chiba and “Area” as Urayasu under “Filter Search”.
Nippon Rental Car Urayasu 3 minutes walking to Urayasu Station
Toyota Rent a Car Urayasu Yanagidori 12 minutes walking to Urayasu Station
b. Nearest outlet to Universal Studio Japan
Unfortunately, there is no outlet nearby USJ, though USJ is located in Fukushima-u, Osaka.
Even at the nearest outlet, you should change trains to access USJ from the outlet.
NIPPON Rent A Car Bentenchō Station It is approximately 37 minutes by changing trains to USJ.
Taking Osaka Circle Line(Kanjo-sen) at JR Bentencho Station->Change to JR Yumesaki Line at Nishi Kujo Station->USJ Station
c. Nagoya Station
Please search by “prefecture” as Aichi and “Area” as Nagoya(Nagoya Station) under “Filter Search”.
Customers who have reserved an ETC card and picked it up at the airport post office, do you have difficulty finding the post office? This article is to introduce you how to find the airport post office after arriving at the airport. Please be sure to know the location of the post office before departure.
Below we will guide you on how to find the location of the airport post office without any problems, so if you get lost in the airport hall, be sure to check here!
The post office at New Chitose Airport is located in the Domestic Terminal (Terminal 2). There is no post office in the International Terminal, so if you are using international flights, please go to the Domestic Terminal.
Recommended route:
① Arrive at domestic flight → Go to the post office to pick up the ETC card → Go to the car rental counter ② Arrive at the international flight → Move to the domestic flight → Go to the post office to pick up the ETC card → Go to the car rental counter
Access: 2F New Chitose Air Port Post Office 〒066-0012 Bibi,Chitose-shi,Hokkaido（New Chitose Airport Terminal 2 2F） Hours of business： Weekdays 9:00～17:00 Saturday 9:00～17:00 Sundays, National Holidays 9:00～17:00
After arriving at Domestic Terminal 2, please go to District C. The post office is circled in red in the map.
2.Narita Airport Terminal 1
There are a total of two post offices at Narita Airport. But not in terminal 3! Below is the guide to the post office in Narita Airport Terminal 1.
Recommended route:
Arrive at Narita Airport Terminal 1 → Go to the post office to pick up the ETC card → Go to the car rental counter
Access: 4F Narita International Airport Post office Terminal 1 Building Office 4F, Narita International Airport Terminal 1, Goryo Bokujo, Narita City, Chiba Prefecture 〒282-8799 Hours of business： Weekdays 08：30－19：00 Saturday 08：30－18：00 Sundays,National Holidays 08：30－18：00 *Since it is a limited-service Yu Yu counter (ゆうゆう窓口), you can only receive an ETC card, but you cannot return it. When returning the ETC card, please put it in the mailbox.
After arriving at the 4th floor of Terminal 1, please proceed towards No.69. The post office is circled in red in the map.
3.Narita Airport Terminal 2
There are a total of two post offices at Narita Airport. But not in terminal 3! Below is the guide to the post office in Narita Airport Terminal 2.
Recommended route:
Arrive at Narita Airport Terminal 2 → Go to the post office to pick up the ETC card → Go to the car rental counter
Access: 3F Narita International Airport Post office Terminal 2 Building Office 3F, Narita International Airport Terminal 2, Furugome, Narita City, Chiba Prefecture 〒282-8799 Hours of business： Weekdays 08：30－19：00 Saturday 08：30－18：00 Sundays,National Holidays 08：30－18：00 *Since it is a limited-service Yu Yu counter (ゆうゆう窓口), you can only receive an ETC card, but you cannot return it. When returning the ETC card, please put it in the mailbox.
After arriving at the 3th floor of Terminal 2, please go north. It is located near the “North Exit 2”. The red circled “No. 8” in the map is the post office.
4.Haneda Airport Terminal 1
There is only one post office in Terminal 1 in Haneda Airport. Customers arriving at Terminals 2 and 3 should proceed to Terminal 1. Below is the guide to the post office in Haneda Airport Terminal 1.
Recommended route:
①Arrive at Haneda Airport Terminal 1 → Go to the post office to pick up the ETC card → Go to the car rental counter ②[Saturdays, Sundays, public holidays] Arrive at Haneda Airport Terminal 1 → Pick up the car at the car rental counter → Go to Kamata Post Office to collect the ETC card
Access: 1F Haneda Airport Post Office 1F, Haneda Airport Terminal 1, 3-3-2,Hanedakuko,Ota-ku,Tokyo〒144-0041 Hours of business： Weekdays：9:00～17:00 Saturdays, Sundays, public holidays：closed If you want to pick up your ETC card on Saturdays, Sundays, and public holidays, we recommend you pick it up at the <Kamata Post Office> near Haneda Airport. Please click “Change delivery location” on the reservation form, select “Hotel”, and enter the name of the post office in the hotel name column and hotel address column.
After arriving at the 1st floor of Terminal 1,head towards MARKETPLACE and it is No.7 on the map. The post office is circled in red in the map.
5Chubu Centrair International Airport
The post office to pick up the ETC card at Chubu Centrair International Airport is automatically set as <Tokoname Post Office Centrair Office>. Terminal 1 only. Customers arriving at Terminals 2 should proceed to Terminal 1. Below is the guide to the Tokoname Post Office Centrair Office.
Recommended route:
①Arrive at Chubu Centrair International Airport Terminal 1 → Go to the post office to pick up the ETC card → Go to the car rental counter ②Arrive at Chubu Centrair International Airport Terminal 2 → Move to Terminal 1 → Go to the post office to pick up the ETC card → Go to the car rental counter ③[Saturdays, Sundays, public holidays] Arrive at Chubu Centrair International Airport Terminal 1/2 → Pick up the car at the car rental counter → Go to Tokoname Post Office to collect the ETC card
Access: 1F Terminal 1 Tokoname Post Office Centrair Office 1F, Chubu Centrair International Airport Terminal 1, Centrair, Tokoname City, Aichi Prefecture 〒479-8799 Hours of business： Weekdays：9:00～17:00 Saturdays, Sundays, public holidays：closed If you want to pick up your ETC card on Saturdays, Sundays, and public holidays, we recommend you pick it up at the <Tokoname Post Office > near Haneda Airport. Please click “Change delivery location” on the reservation form, select “Hotel”, and enter the name of the post office in the hotel name column and hotel address column.
After arriving at the 1st floor of Terminal 1,it is on the other side of the Lawson convenience store. The post office is circled in red in the map.
6.Kansai Airport
The Post Office in Kansai Airport is closed, so ToCoo! reservation form do not have the options of Kansai Airport for choosing ETC Card Pick up place. We recommend to Guest who will use Kansai Airport for using “Izumisano Post Office” for pick-up the ETC Card. “Izumisano Post Office” is 16 minutes far from airport by car becuase they are placed near by Airport. Please move to the “Izumisano Post Office“. *Please be careful, You can not pick up the ETC Card at the car outlet. Please click “Change delivery location” on the reservation form, select “Hotel”, and enter the name of the post office in the hotel name column and hotel address column.
Recommended route: Arrive at Kansai Airport→ Pick up the car at the car rental counter → Go to “Izumisano Post Office” to collect the ETC card
Izumisano Post Office Access: ２－８－４５ Uemachi, Izumisano City, Osaka 〒598-8799 MAPCODE:35 864 842*33 Hours of business： Weekdays：8:00～19:00 Saturdays: 8:00～18:00 Sundays, Public holidays: 9:00～16:00
The Post Office of Knasai Airport is closed, so we recommend you to move “Izumisano Post Office” that is 16 minutes far from airport by car for pick up ETC Card. The post office is marked in red in the symbol.
7 Fukuoka Airport
The Post Office of Hukuoka Airport is closed. After you pick up the rental car, please move to Hakaltakita Post Office. (4min to car) Below is the guide to the post office in Hakatakita Post Office
Recommended route: Arrive at Fukuoka Airport→ Pick up the car at the car rental counter → Go to “Hakatakita Post Office” to collect the ETC card
Hours of business： Weekdays：7:00～19:00 Saturdays: 7:00～18:00 Sundays, Public holidays: 7:00～18:00
Hakatakita Post Office Access: １－３－２６ Ooi, HakataKu, Hukuoka City, Hukuoka 〒812-8799 MAPCODE: 13 383188*66
The Post Office of Hukuoka Airport is closed, so we recommend you to move “Hakatakita Post Office” that is 4 minutes far from airport by car for pick up ETC Card. The Post Office is marked in red in the symbol.
8 Kagoshima Airport
The Post Office of Kagoshima Airport is closed. So you can not pick up the ETC Card in this Post Office.
*Please be careful, You can not pick up the ETC Card at the car outlet. Please click “Change delivery location” on the reservation form, select “Hotel”, and enter the name of the post office in the hotel name column and hotel address column.
Kokubu Post Office ３－３９－１ Kokubuchuuou, Kirishima City, Kagoshima 〒899-4399 Mapcode: 216 541 166*72
Hours of business： Weekdays：8:00～19:00 Saturdays: 8:00～17:00 Sundays, Public holidays: 9:00～12:30
The Post Office of Kagoshima Airport is closed, so we recommend you to move “Kokubu Post Office” that is 22 minutes far from airport by car for pick up ETC Card. The Post Office is marked in red in the symbol.
Kagoshima Central Post Office 1-2 Chuuouchou, Kagoshima City, Kagoshima 〒890-8799 Mapcode: 393 575 792*15
Hours of business： Weekdays：7:00～21:00 Saturdays, Public holidays: 7:00～18:00
The Post Office of Kagoshima Airport is closed, so we recommend you to move “Kagoshima Central Post Office” that is 39 minutes far from airport by car for pick up ETC Card. The Post Office is marked in red in the symbol.
Kamata Post Office １-２-８ KamataHonchou, Ootaku, Tokyo-to 〒144-8799
GOOGLE MAP： https://bit.ly/3K2lg5Z 20 minutes far from Haneda Airport by car Mapcode: 191 556*28
Hours of business： Weekdays：07：00－19：00 Saturdays, Public holidays: 07：00－18：00
Tokoname Post Office １－８３ Sakaemachi, Tokonameshi, Aichi 〒479-8799
GOOGLE MAP： https://bit.ly/3XoP5R3 11 minutes far from Haneda Airport by car Mapcode:371 790 173*42
Hours of business： Weekdays：8:00～19:00 Saturdays: 8:00～17:00 Sundays, Public holidays: 9:00～12:30
For travelers visiting from overseas, one of the best ways to fully enjoy the charms of Japan is through a rental car journey. With a car, breathtaking hidden landscapes that trains and buses can’t reach, beloved local restaurants, and unique cultural experiences all become much more accessible.
In this article, we’ll introduce recommended sightseeing spots, cultural experiences, and gourmet destinations across Japan that you can truly enjoy only by using a rental car. Why not discover a new side of Japan through the freedom of traveling your own way?
Freedom Travel Japan
Freedom Travel Japan is a company that offers personalized luxury travel experiences in Japan, offering carefully designed itineraries tailored to each guest’s interests and budget.
Destinations include Oita, a serene hot spring area, and Tokyo, a vibrant metropolis—each providing a completely different kind of experience. In Oita, travelers can enjoy healing hot springs, stays at traditional ryokan inns, and breathtaking natural scenery. In Tokyo, guests can explore iconic landmarks and witness the unique blend of culture and innovation.
Additionally, Freedom Travel Japan provides unique cultural experiences such as shochu and beer brewery tours, offering travelers a deeper connection with Japan’s traditions and heritage.
This is an all-you-can-eat restaurant where you can indulge in the finest Japanese delicacies—sushi, crab, and wagyu beef. We serve carefully selected ingredients such as king crab, snow crab, tuna, and sea urchin, with a focus on freshness and top quality. Beautifully presented dishes turn every meal into a memorable experience—perfect for special occasions or a trip to Japan.
With convenient locations in Akihabara, Shinjuku, and Osaka, the restaurant is easily accessible for sightseeing and is especially popular among travelers from Taiwan and Hong Kong. We also offer Muslim-friendly courses, ensuring guests of diverse nationalities and cultures can dine with peace of mind.
Enjoy Japan’s flavors and hospitality to the fullest with our 90-minute all-you-can-eat and all-you-can-drink plans. We look forward to sharing the charm of Japanese food culture with visitors from around the world.
Located right next to Shinjuku Gyoen, “NIGICHA” is a café where Yame tea and rice balls take center stage, inviting you to savor Japan’s culture of rice and tea with all five senses. The rice balls, which can be chosen from white rice, black rice, or brown rice, are made with carefully selected domestic ingredients and are hand-shaped one by one with care.
Matcha and sencha are prepared with meticulous attention to water temperature and extraction time to bring out their umami to the fullest, each cup brewed with care and dedication.
We also offer a “Matcha Experience Program” using matcha produced in Yame, Fukuoka, which has been very well received, especially by international tourists.
With its calm Japanese-style atmosphere, the café offers an authentic Japanese breakfast, lunch, and café time, earning high ratings on both TripAdvisor and Google reviews.
During your journey, be sure to stop by and experience the refined “taste of Japan” and the “spirit of tea.”
With the mission of “Simpler and Closer”, we provide a rental car service that supports more comfortable, convenient, and safe travel.
You can pick up and return your vehicle at parking lots such as airports, hotels, and stations, without waiting at a counter or going through complicated procedures.Your car will be delivered to the parking lot closest to the designated location.
In addition, we offer everything you may need for your trip, including mobile Wi-Fi, ETC cards, tablets, and mobile batteries. Necessary insurance is also included in the price, so you can enjoy your journey with peace of mind.
For example, it is even possible to rent at Haneda and return at Narita. We respond flexibly to a wide variety of customer needs. Please feel free to consult us about anything.
Nice to meet you! We are **NAHO**, offering *Wellness Tours* in Beppu City and Hiji Town, Oita Prefecture, Kyushu.
We provide three half-day programs designed mainly for travelers from overseas to experience *Nordic Walking* and *Forest Bathing (Shinrin-yoku)*.
The first program is a Nordic Walking and forest bathing course that connects *Lake Shidaka* and *Lake Kagurame*, located behind *Mt. Tsurumi*, the mountain that produces Beppu’s hot springs. Especially at Lake Kagurame, from early to late June every year, around 15,000 irises in about 80 varieties bloom in full splendor.. It is a famous summer sightseeing spot that colors Beppu. If you visit Beppu, we warmly invite you to join our tour and experience the “healing of mind and body.”
The second program takes you around *Myouban Onsen*, which has the highest sulfur concentration among Beppu’s hot springs. Here you can also enjoy Nordic Walking and forest bathing, as well as savor the local specialty, *Onsen Pudding*.
The third program explores *Mt. Kyouzuka* in *Hiji Town*, which neighbors Beppu City. At its base, natural spring water gushes out at a well-known power spot,offering a refreshing, detoxifying experience.
When you visit Beppu City, please come and join our *Wellness Tour*! We look forward to welcoming you!
When traveling freely around Japan, renting a car is incredibly convenient. It gives you easy access to hidden gems and popular suburban eateries that are hard to reach by public transport, as well as facilities offering uniquely Japanese, once-in-a-lifetime experiences.In this article, we’ll introduce a carefully curated selection of must-visit Japan destinations, popular restaurants, and one‑of‑a‑kind experience providers across Japan,perfectly enjoyed using “TOCOO!,” a rental‑car service designed especially for inbound travelers.
Samurai Theater Tokyo
Experience the Thrill of a Samurai Adventure in the Historic Samurai Town of Kagurazaka (Shinjuku)!
Choose your favorite kimono or hakama, don authentic samurai attire, and step into the world of the samurai. After learning how to handle a sword and mastering basic movements, you’ll engage in an immersive, music‑and‑lighting‑enhanced battle against a “villain” samurai!
During the experience, you can record videos on your smartphone and take commemorative photos with your samurai,perfect for creating unforgettable memories.
The instruction and guidance are provided by professional samurai actors with experience in period dramas and films, making for a truly authentic and immersive experience.
The facility houses a wide array of traditional armaments, including armor, swords, spears, and more, offering countless photo-op and video-worthy opportunities.You can even wield a genuine Japanese sword over a hundred years old to dramatically slice tatami mats. Now is your chance to touch the samurai spirit and experience Japan’s unique samurai culture firsthand!
Operate a street‑legal four‑wheel buggy and race through Shikoku’s remote natural landscapes and tranquil countryside on the “Scenic Paradise Tour.” The tour is completely private,with no shared seating. After thorough instruction and practice, your guide (the owner and head of the company) will craft a dramatic route tailored to your preferences, driving skill, and desired tour duration. Complimentary photos taken during the tour will be provided afterward. You can also add lunch or a glass‑bottom boat ride for an extra fee.
＊Participation requires a valid Japanese ordinary driver’s license.
Terakoya NINJA is a Japanese culture experience facility located in Tokyo. They offer inbound tourists valuable opportunities to engage with Japan’s traditional arts,such as tea ceremony, ikebana (flower arranging), and wagashi (Japanese confectionery) making. To ensure it becomes a To create an unforgettable Japanese cultural experience, we welcome guests in a comfortable setting with heartfelt hospitality, we welcome guests in a comfortable setting with heartfelt hospitality.
Learn more about how you can book your experience at
Departing Arima Onsen: Ancient Road & Healing Forest Hiking
Why not enjoy a scenic hike between relaxing hot spring visits in Japan? On this tour, you’ll walk along a historic mountain path once traveled by merchants and pilgrims, guided by an experienced guide. You’ll learn the deep history of Arima that you can’t discover just by strolling through town, and refresh yourself by observing the flora and fauna in the forest. Begin your journey at Arima Onsen Station on the Arima Ropeway, and enjoy scenic stops along the way, including Jigokudani (“Hell Valley”), known for its carbonated hot springs, the historic remains of an old teahouse at a former mountain pass, and the lush Healing Forest, home to diverse wildlife. From the observation deck, you’ll enjoy sweeping views of the Tamba mountain range and the town below. The tour ends at Zuihōji Park, famous for its autumn foliage. Experience this harmonious blend of nature and history for yourself!
The mountains around Arima are also known for their many waterfalls, and YuYu Tours offer tours that combine waterfall sightseeing with a hike up to the summit of Mount Rokkō. We can even customize your tour according to your preferences. Whether you’d like to explore points of interest around Arima or take in the sights of Kobe city, just let us know!
Are you dreaming of an unforgettable trip to Japan? Fujitours offers exclusive, tailor-made tours that showcase the breathtaking beauty and unique charm of Mie. It features many wonderful tourist attractions, including Ise Shrine, which, alongside Mount Fuji, is a place that many Japanese people wish to visit at least once in their lifetime.
Mie is the birthplace of the renowned Mikimoto pearls. At Mikimoto Pearl Island, discover the fascinating process of creating cultured pearls, then explore the island’s shops to purchase these world-famous pearls.
Mie is also famous for its Ama, the female divers, who have collected seafood from the ocean’s depths for centuries. Speaking of seafood, this region is famous for its fresh, mouthwatering delicacies such as Ise-ebi shrimp, Matsusaka beef, and more.
The tour is conducted in the comfort of a private car, with your guide personally driving you to each destination.
At Ascendia Sports, we offer unforgettable tandem paragliding experiences in the Tokyo suburbs and around Mount Fuji. A fully licensed, English‑speaking instructor flies with you, ensuring your safety, while enjoying Japan’s stunning scenery. From takeoff to landing, they provide detailed guidance, optional pick‑up service, and professional‑grade equipment. Whether you’re a first‑timer or an adventure enthusiast, this activity lets you experience Japan’s great outdoors from the sky.
They will also send you photos that meet the required size and format for your review. “Learn more about Ascendia Sports tandem paragliding experiences at https://www.ascendia-sports.com/
Kimono Rental Yui
Kimono Rental Yui is ideally located, just a 7‑minute walk from Asakusa Station and 4 minutes from Kaminarimon Gate. All essentials are included in the rental, kimono, undergarments, obi sash, zōri sandals, bag, and more, so you can simply show up empty‑handed.
We offer a wide range of Kimonos, including casual styles for city strolling to kids’ Kimonos, formal houmongi, and furisode.
Professional photographer packages are also available.
We also recommend a matcha tea ceremony experience while wearing your kimono!
Enjoy a hands‑on taste of Japanese traditional culture at Kimono Rental Yui.
Hours: 9:30 AM – 6:00 PM
Address: 2F, Quatre Chic Building, 1‑16‑2 Asakusa, Taito‑ku, Tokyo （東京都台東区浅草1-16-2キャトルシックビル2F）
“Asakusa Kowa（浅草香和）” is a Japanese entertainment show where you can enjoy a non‑verbal performance themed around oiran, geisha, and samurai. Located in the heart of Asakusa, the stage combines traditional Japanese beauty with modern production, earning rave reviews not only from Japanese audiences but also from inbound tourists. Experience this one‑of‑a‑kind show that conveys the “spirit of wa” beyond words!
Smash, Scream, and Relieve Stress! REEAST ROOM is an immersive entertainment facility built on the concept of “making the forbidden more fun and more funny!” Here you can try Japan’s rare “smash‑and‑destroy” experience and axe‑throwing, perfect for a refreshing break between sightseeing.
Our most popular attraction, the BREAK ROOM, lets you swing a bat to powerfully destroy bottles and dishes, delivering an exhilarating rush you can’t get in everyday life.
With two Tokyo locations (Ikebukuro and Nishi‑Shinjuku) and English‑speaking staff, REEAST ROOM is tourist‑friendly. Enjoy a uniquely sensory Japanese experience at REEAST ROOM!
WASAKE, a brand-new sake experience facility unlike any before, has opened in Asakusa, Tokyo. Immerse yourself in Japanese culture through our unique sake experiences.
You can sample more than 50 carefully selected sake varieties from across Japan. Our lineup ranges from traditional brews and modern styles to premium brands like Dassai and even rare offerings such as nigori (cloudy sake), sparkling sake, and aged sake. Knowledgeable staff fluent in English and Chinese will guide you in choosing the perfect sake and enhancing your tasting experience. All sampled sake is also available for purchase by the bottle.
Additionally, WASAKE offers exclusive, reservation-only experiences. Choose from options such as the “Guided Sake Tasting,” led by an English-speaking guide, or the “Sake Workshop and Tasting,” where you learn the basics of sake from an internationally certified sake sommelier before sampling a selection of varieties.
Unbeatable Clarity! Enjoy the Spectacular Uratomi Coast on a Sightseeing Boat Cruise in Japan.
Located just 10 minutes by car from the Tottori Sand Dunes, the Uratomi Coast Sightseeing Boat offers an unforgettable tour of the nationally designated scenic Uratomi Coast.The excursions highlight is the crystalline “Iwami Blue” sea, with visibility down to 25 meters.
On the “Uratomi Coast Island‑Hopping Cruise,” you’ll spend about 40 minutes leisurely touring dramatic rock formations and sea caves. The boat features climate‑controlled cabins and open‑air deck seating for maximum comfort, and no reservation is required,just show up and board!
For even more adventure, try the “Uradome” small‑boat tour, which navigates narrow channels inaccessible to larger vessels and takes you inside sea caves.On weekends, you can also experience the Glass Boat, where you watch marine life through a glass bottom.The boarding area also includes restaurants and souvenir shops to round out your visit and enrich your memories.
KRaft is based in Sanjō City, Niigata Prefecture, and works to pass on the region’s manufacturing culture to the next generation. Sanjō City, long renowned for its metalworking industry, is known as a “town of craftsmanship.” KRaft offers factory tours and workshops where you can experience the skills and spirit of local artisans, as well as cycling tours that explore both industry and nature. Engaging with the deeply rooted technologies and lifestyles of the area offers people of all ages a multifaceted opportunity to discover the charms of this region.
Patia’s Japanese Cooking Class is a culinary workshop offering inbound tourists an enjoyable communicative experience through cooking.
Their most popular class is the ramen‑making workshop. You’ll hand‑roll noodles from scratch using wheat flour, and craft bold‑flavored broth and chashu pork entirely by yourself! Seeing, touching, and savoring the aromas together with your friends will become a highlight of your trip.
They also offer classes that include a guided tour of a local supermarket, giving you hands‑on exposure to uniquely Japanese ingredients. Their Japanese instructors speak English and provide careful support, so even cooking beginners can participate with confidence.
This experience is supported by Patia’s own kitchen studios with 11 locations across Tokyo. These spacious venues accommodate couples, families, and groups of up to 60 people. In addition to sightseeing, many corporate guests use the studios for team‑building events.
【Location】Patia kitchen studio (specific venue assigned based on availability)
【Hours】 Vary by class (reservations required)
Local Guide Stars
Local Guide Stars offers tours in Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto. Their strength lies in having local Japanese guides who don’t just show you the major sights but offer insider commentary and recommendations from a resident’s perspective, which our guests greatly appreciate.
Tours last 1.5–2 hours and include walking, food tours, bar hopping, and more.For example, a Tokyo Tour offers:
A tour of the Imperial Palace and Meiji Shrine to learn about Japanese history and spirituality
A new Shinjuku/Shibuya course to experience both the area’s historic roots and its modern urban culture
A Tsukiji Market food‑sampling walk
A newly introduced, highly popular sumo‑show tour
Each tour delivers a unique, locally informed perspective on Japan’s culture and city life.
Wide-Area Nature Guide offers tours of iconic scenic spots representing the Oku-Bōsō region, such as Shimizu Keiryū Square (Nomizo Falls and Kameiwa Cave), local historic temples like Mitsuishi-yama Kannonji, and even ‘otherworldly’ sites unknown to most.
In search of the “last hidden frontier” of Oku‑Bōsō in Chiba, tour guides take you to secret spots not found in any guidebook. Upon request, traditional cultural experiences can be arranged, such as a workshop visit with local Living National Treasure dye‑textile artist Nobuo Matsubara.
Book to experience detailed, in‑depth tours of Chiba’s still‑undiscovered natural highlights.
※Please note: Because these tours traverse mountain paths, participants prone to motion sickness should take care when joining.
No driver’s license required! Street‑legal E‑Cart Adventure! Discover Japan at your own leisurely pace.
Embark on an unprecedented Japanese journey in Matsumoto and Shiojiri, Nagano Prefecture! Trip Adventure Inc. offers a ‘new style of travel’ using four-wheel electric E-Carts, which anyone aged 16 and up can ride without a license.Feel the breeze as you explore country roads at your own pace.
With a top speed of 20 km/h, you can safely and easily visit historic sites like Matsumoto Castle, Lake Suwa, and the post town of Narai on the Nakasendō. This isn’t just transportation, it transforms your trip from point‑to‑point travel into a “journey of discovery.” You’ll notice charming roadside scenes, a taxi would pass by, and unexpected encounters at small stops will let you experience the “real Japan.”
Reservations are a breeze via TripAdvisor! Travel light, as staff will hand off and pick up your cart at the nearest station to each sightseeing spot. Plus, a staff member will provide a full riding tutorial, so even first‑timers can enjoy it with confidence.
Fuji Outdoor Base is an tour guide service offering private, English‑friendly tours around Mount Fuji and Lake Kawaguchi. Our local guides, certified as mountain leaders, provide thoughtful insights into the history of Fujisan worship and the area’s natural beauty.
On our tours, you’ll visit a historic shrine at the heart of local faith and experience ancient prayer traditions. You’ll then explore the mystical Aokigahara “Sea of Trees,” formed by volcanic activity, feeling both the serenity and power of the forest. Finally, you’ll enjoy the rich bounty of nature at the tranquil shores of the Fuji Five Lakes, taking in seasonal views shaped by the mountains and water.
The guides, all with backgrounds as hunters, possess deep knowledge of the region’s flora, fauna, and terrain, and lead each tour with safety as the top priority. Free rental of all necessary hiking gear is also provided, so you can join hassle-free, even without your own equipment.
If you’re looking to avoid crowds and immerse yourself in history and nature in peaceful surroundings, this is the perfect way to enjoy an authentic and tranquil side of Japan.
Adventure Park Embracing the Forest as It Is. Enjoy authentic activities like zip‑slides and buggy rides.
Adventure Park offers two main types of activities:
Forest Adventure Yunoyama: Traverse treetop trails and play on zip‑slides. Guests who are at least 110 cm tall and 10 years or older (or 140 cm+ in height) can also take on more advanced athletic courses.
KAMOSHIKA BUGGY: Race off‑road through the woods on a four‑wheel buggy, no driver’s license required! Solo rides are available from age 14, and children as young as 6 can ride two‑up with an adult.
Visitors can enjoy truly immersive forest fun, including giant trampolines, electric water-gun battles, and more, for an unforgettable, out-of-the-ordinary experience.
The former residence of the village headman of the old Himeji domain is located in Fukusaki, famous for its legends of yōkai, just north of Himeji. This 400‑year‑old manor is said to have been built in 1601; its main hall, eight years older than Himeji Castle, was once the birthplace of local hero Tetsujirō Okuni, who aided farmers during the Bantan Peasant Revolt.
From the Meiji through the Shōwa eras, this building also served the region’s medical needs. On display are period artifacts, old medical texts, signage, and a doctor’s visit bag, that evoke its history of community care.
Renovated to preserve Edo‑period pillars and beams while installing modern comforts, the spacious private quarters feature original household furnishings such as chairs and cabinets. You’ll find a semi‑open-air cypress bath, sunlight filtering through shōji screens, and a tranquil Japanese garden.
In the shared garden area, guests can also enjoy BBQs. ※ To feel the weight of four centuries of history, please visit the adjacent accommodation “Shun no Tamatebako Amami,” where the massive original beams alone are worth seeing. There is even a display of the rickshaw once used for doctor visits.
To enhance your stay, cultural experiences including a tea ceremony, ikebana flower arranging, kimono dressing, yoga, flower arrangement, aromatherapy massage, foot‑reflexology massage, and even workshops on restoring traditional earthen walls.
On the grounds, you’ll also find a bakery using natural yeast, an oriental aroma salon, an organic flower shop, restaurants serving sea bream soba and sea bream rice, and a casual Japanese eatery.
Travel back in time and relax amid nature as if you truly lived here.
Nearby Attractions by Car or Train:
Himeji Castle: 25 min by car; 25 min by train (JR Fukusaki→Himeji; 17 min by limited express)
Maiko Experience Studio Shiki and Kimono Rental Shiki Sakura are located along the historic approach to Kyoto’s over 1,000-year-old Kiyomizu-dera Temple. Every day, the team remains dedicated to beauty, attentive hospitality, and creating lasting memories, allowing guests to fully savor the splendor of Kyoto’s changing seasons with genuine warmth.
Discover and delight in the traditional Japanese culture of the maiko, capturing the joy of finding “another you” in photographs that last forever. Please enjoy your very own maiko experience and the timeless beauty of the maiko, season by season, at Shiki.
Samurai Training Experience KENDO in Osaka offers an authentic kendo experience. First, you’ll learn the history of kendo, then engage in silent meditation and etiquette practice before training, getting hands‑on with Japanese manners and culture. After centering your mind, you’ll practice kendo basics, sliding footwork and sword‑swing drills, then don full kendo armor to train seriously from fundamental techniques to match‑ready tactics. Finally, you’ll face off in a match, channeling your samurai skills and spirit with full focus. During the bout, you’ll forget fatigue as you strike (and “cut”) your opponent, fully immersing yourself in the world of the samurai.
The dojo also functions as a stage‐combat school, offering a wide array of samurai weapons, including words, spears, and more. You can use them to create your own samurai portrait, taking home personalized memories of your warrior transformation.
Kendo lets you learn the samurai spirit and swordsmanship passed down in Japan since ancient times. For a fresh and moving experience, why not try this exclusive samurai‑kendo adventure?
Schedule & Location Kendo sessions run twice daily, 2 hours each (10 AM and 2 PM); reservations are not accepted on weekends. Please arrive at the venue 20 minutes before the start time (travel expenses at your own cost). (Samurai Kaikan in Japanese for more details on Samurai Training Experience KENDO in Osaka.
Access A 5‑minute walk from Tenjinbashisuji 6‑chōme Station (subway Tanimachi and Sakaisuji lines). A 7‑minute taxi ride from Umeda Station in Osaka.
KOIKOI JAPAN TOUR offers immersive experience tours that blend otaku culture, anime, games, and more, with Japan’s traditions, cuisine, and spiritual practices. Centered around Ikebukuro, Shinjuku, Nakano, and Sugamo, KoiKoi run a variety of tours: “pilgrimages” to local anime-related landmarks, formal shrine visits with offerings of ema (prayer plaques) and omamori (protective charms), and even at-home takoyaki cooking classes.
The organizer hosts about 50 anime‑fan meetups each month, leveraging that event‑management expertise to maintain small group sizes and provide English‑speaking guides. Beginners, families, and solo travelers all feel comfortable joining.Private tours focused on your favorite anime can also be created using expert operational know-how. Just ask!
Feel free to contact KoiKoi to discuss your needs, whether it’s a brief spotlight tour or a full‑day deep‑dive adventure.
Experience unforgettable Japan with the WelcomeTokyo & WelcomeJapan App! Join daily international exchange events in Tokyo, Osaka, Kyoto, and Okinawa through the WelcomeJapan App and WelcomeTokyo gatherings, and connect with locals and fellow travelers!
Choose from a wide variety of events, Tokyo and Osaka international exchange parties, picnics, guided tours, bar‑hopping crawls, language exchanges, cooking classes, art workshops, club events, and more. All events are English‑friendly, so you can relax and enjoy. Perfect for making friends, experiencing local Japanese culture, and creating memories!
There are places in Japan that hold a special meaning for many Japanese people, yet none more so than Ise Jingu, often called “the spiritual home of the Japanese heart.”
Located in Ise City, Mie Prefecture, about a 90‑minute train ride from Nagoya, Ise is a town blessed by sea and mountains. Many visitors are drawn to Ise Jingu because standing there evokes a sense of nostalgia and peace.
If Kyoto is the center of Japan’s traditional culture, then Ise can be called the center of its spiritual culture. With roughly 2,000 years of history, Ise Jingu’s shrine buildings stand quietly amid a sacred forest. Japanese people have long found the divine in nature and lived in harmony with it, and that spirit still lives here today.
Because this is such a sacred place, there are virtually no signs or placards in the grounds. To fully appreciate these invisible values, guidance from a knowledgeable guide is invaluable.
At Kagura Salon Co., Ltd., guides are trained and dispatched to convey the spiritual culture of Ise Jingu. Visitors are invited to explore Ise with one of these guides and gently touch the heart of Japan.
Adventure Cycling in Nagano: Sky Road Venus Line Tour
The Venus Line, located within a national park, offers a sweeping panoramic view of the Alps, Mount Fuji, and Yatsugatake. You’ll smoothly climb a 1,000 m elevation gain on an e‑bike. Along the way, you’ll ride up to Tateishi Park, an anime filming location, where your guide will explain the history of how Lake Suwa formed. Next, enjoy a breezy ride through Kirigamine and the Kurumayama Highlands. Ahead, the dramatic landscapes of Yatsugatake and Mount Fuji stretch across the horizon. In this breathtaking setting, enjoying a meal from a kitchen truck feels like pure luxury.
An Elegant Evening of Kaiseki and Geisha in Hachioji (Western Tokyo)
Just a 40‑minute train ride from Shinjuku, Hachioji is a tranquil area where you can enjoy an unforgettable cultural experience. In a serene tatami room, savor authentic kaiseki cuisine crafted from seasonal ingredients and embodying Japanese aesthetics.
The highlight of this special evening is a live performance by a geisha, featuring traditional music and dance. These masters of Japan’s performing arts will enchant you with their graceful movements, exquisite melodies, and refined conversation. Alongside your meal, you may choose from Japanese sake, beer, or non‑alcoholic beverages.
An English-speaking or Chinese‑speaking guide will accompany you to ensure smooth communication and deepen your understanding of the traditions. You’ll also have the opportunity to take photos freely with the geisha, creating memories to treasure.
This exclusive experience is perfect for travelers seeking to immerse themselves in authentic Japanese culture in a peaceful setting.
ME TOKYO: A New Kind of Entertainment That Moves Your Emotions
ME TOKYO is not just another game center—it’s a next-generation amusement facility built around the concept of “MOVE EMOTION”, a place to release feelings, connect with others, and truly enjoy yourself. It’s attracting attention from Gen Z and international visitors alike.
There are three locations in Tokyo—Shinjuku, Ikebukuro, and Shibuya—each offering a unique experience.
ME TOKYO SHINJUKU features 178 crane games, over 500 capsule toy machines, 11 purikura (photo sticker) booths including Korean-style ones, and more than 100 cosplay outfits. There are plenty of Instagrammable spots and fully equipped powder rooms where you can touch up your makeup before photo sessions.
ME TOKYO IKEBUKURO offers one of Japan’s largest collections of mini crane games with 106 machines, an immersive 5-sided LED room, a BEAUTY lounge where you can try the latest beauty appliances, and a high-speed streaming studio—combining fun and beauty into one unique experience.
ME TOKYO SHIBUYA Limited provides exclusive attractions such as crane games, purikura booths, cosplay rentals, and limited-edition merchandise. It’s designed so that even international visitors can easily join in the fun.
An experience that stirs your emotions and makes your heart dance—find your own Come find a new kind of entertainment at ME TOKYO.
“Enjoy Tokyo Tour” Trivia Quest: Stroll Through Harajuku & Meiji Shrine + Sake Tasting in Yoyogi Park
Would you like to explore Meiji Shrine in depth? Do you enjoy Japanese sake? Join this tour where you’ll visit Meiji Shrine with an English-speaking guide and then head to nearby Yoyogi Park for a delightful sake tasting experience!
At Meiji Shrine, you’ll learn about the history of the shrine while testing your knowledge with a trivia quiz. Afterward, you’ll move on to Yoyogi Park, where you can sample a variety of delicious Japanese sake. Typically, around three different types of sake are offered, giving you a deeper appreciation of Japan’s rich sake culture.
Since the tasting takes place in the park, you can relax and enjoy your drink while surrounded by the beauty of nature in every season. Families with children are welcome—fruit juice is provided for kids so that everyone can enjoy the seasonal scenery together.
Guides are available in both English and Japanese, so you can feel comfortable communicating in either language.
Atami Pass, located at the gateway to the Izu Peninsula in Shizuoka Prefecture, is a spectacular viewpoint at an elevation of 800 meters. It’s known as the only paragliding spot in the Kanto region where you can enjoy high-altitude mountain flights.
From spring to autumn, stable updrafts make it possible to soar through the sky while taking in breathtaking panoramic views that stretch from Mt. Fuji and the Southern Alps all the way to Suruga Bay.
Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced flyer, seasoned instructors provide tandem flight support to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. Experience the thrill and wonder of becoming one with nature in the skies above Atami Pass.
SAMURAI SUSHI TOKYO is a cozy, small-group workshop where professional sushi chefs carefully teach the art of sushi-making. With native English-speaking staff providing support, overseas guests can join with peace of mind. Create unforgettable memories here with your family, friends, or that special someone!
Three Types of Sushi You’ll Experience:
Nigiri Sushi – the classic style of fish on top of vinegared rice
Maki Sushi – traditional seaweed rolls
Gunkan Maki – sushi wrapped in seaweed with toppings placed on top (All ingredients are carefully selected by the sushi chefs and prepared in the best condition.)
Workshop Duration: About 1 hour 45 minutes
Introduction to the history of Edo-style sushi
Sushi quiz (with prizes)
Lecture by a professional sushi chef
Hands-on nigiri sushi-making experience
Commemorative photo & tasting time
At SAMURAI SUSHI TOKYO, every step of the sushi-making process is handled with great care to bring out the full flavor of each ingredient.
Forest Adventure Ritto – Outdoor Experiences That Let You Go All Out in the Forest
Located in the forests of Ritto City, Shiga Prefecture, Forest Adventure Ritto is a “nature coexisting outdoor park” originally from France. It offers two main courses: the Adventure Course, where you can experience dynamic heights and thrills, and the Canopy Course, which even preschoolers can enjoy. It’s a place where both children and adults can immerse themselves in exciting challenges.
The park is easily accessible from both the Meishin Expressway and Shin-Meishin Expressway, making it a convenient day trip from Osaka or Nagoya. The surrounding area is well-equipped with campsites, lodging facilities, sports grounds, and training centers, making it highly popular not only for family and group leisure but also for school trips, corporate training, and team-building activities.
An extraordinary adventure in the forest awaits—racing through the trees and pushing your own limits strengthens bonds with your companions and creates a special time to free both mind and body in the midst of nature.
Trail Adventure Ritto – Diverse Trail Experiences Revived from Old Forestry Roads
Trail Adventure is a mountain bike activity park designed for everyone—from children to adults, and from beginners to seasoned riders. Trail Adventure Ritto was built using former forestry work roads, reborn as an authentic trail park that coexists with nature. Multiple courses are laid out within a compact mountain, allowing riders to practice loops repeatedly or enjoy extended rides.
The park features unique terrain-based structures such as suspension bridge sections crossing valleys and Japan’s first 360-degree “Karesansui” banked turn, offering distinct thrills on each course.
For beginners: The newly built Green Trail (opened spring 2024) is recommended. It has two loops (100m inner loop, 150m outer loop), designed with a gentle difficulty level while still teaching MTB fundamentals.
For intermediate riders: The Blue Trail (650m in length) is especially popular, with two suspension bridges crossing the forest, banked turns, and a series of ups and downs for an exhilarating ride.
For advanced riders: The Red Trails offer true challenges—Red A, a thrilling downhill from the summit, and Red B, a technical course with rhythmic terrain. Riders can also connect to the Blue Trail for an extended long course.
Come discover the ride that suits you best in the forests of Ritto.
Samurai Trip – Experience the Spirit of the Samurai Through Authentic Kendo
Samurai Trip offers authentic kendo experience tours in Tokyo and other cities across Japan, including Osaka, Sapporo, Yokohama, Fukuoka, and Okinawa. Guided by professional kendo instructors, participants not only learn the movements but also gain a deeper understanding of the philosophy and spiritual culture behind the way of the samurai.
The experience takes place in a real dojo, and even beginners can participate with confidence. Starting with dressing in traditional attire, you’ll receive instruction on basic movements, take part in mock matches, and learn about the values embedded in Japanese martial arts.
Travelers who have joined describe it as “the best experience of my life”, “perfect for family trips”, and praise “the instructors’ careful guidance.” The program has earned an impressive 4.9 rating on Tripadvisor (with over 200 reviews).
Main Experience Plans:
Kendo Experience (about 2 hours): Wear protective armor, practice basic movements, and engage in mock matches.
Kendo Armor Craftsman Workshop Tour (about 1 hour): Observe up close the craftsmanship of Japanese artisans.
Kendo Experience + Samurai Lunch (about 4 hours): After kendo practice, enjoy a commemorative photo in armor and a traditional Japanese lunch.
All plans can be booked for groups of two or more, and reservations can easily be made via the official website. This activity is highly recommended for those who want to immerse themselves deeply in Japanese culture.
The Shiobara Viva experience is more than just sightseeing. Here, you’ll embark on a journey that lets you deeply connect with Japan’s nature, culture, and way of life.
Spring brings fresh greenery, summer invites river play, autumn paints the forests in vivid colors, and winter reveals breathtaking frozen waterfalls. Walk through lush green woods, cross a suspension bridge draped in dazzling autumn leaves, and explore six different hot spring qualities and seven colorful onsen—authentic experiences that can only be found here.
Hands-on nature programs and harvest activities—where both children and adults can see, touch, taste, and learn—are also highly popular.
Your guide is “An-chan,” a traveler who has explored 30 countries around the world. With a mix of local insights and global perspective, he delivers a nostalgic yet refreshing experience that will stay with you.
Every activity is tailor-made to fit each guest’s age, physical ability, and interests, ensuring that each journey becomes truly personal, special, and unforgettable.
Nippon Journey is a cultural experience service for international visitors to Hiroshima, offering activities such as calligraphy and origami. Conveniently located just a 15-minute walk from the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum, it is easy to include in sightseeing routes, making it popular among many travelers.
In Nippon Journey’s cultural experiences, participants can discover the meanings and background behind Japanese traditions, as well as their connection to Hiroshima.
In the calligraphy experience, you will learn about the meaning and origins of kanji while expressing your own name or favorite words in kanji. The brushes used are Kumano brushes from Hiroshima, Japan’s most renowned brush-making region.
In origami, participants learn about the deep connection with Hiroshima through folding the orizuru, a symbol of peace. The highlight is placing your folded crane into the Orizuru Tower at the end of the activity.
After each experience, you can take home your own original creation, making it a perfect way to create unforgettable memories.
Would you like to experience the profound world of Japanese sake with a host certified as both an International Sake Lecturer and International Kikisake-shi (sake sommelier)? While sampling three different types of sake, each with distinct aromas and flavors, you will enjoy learning about their characteristics and tips for pairing them with food. You’ll also be introduced—clearly and accessibly, even for beginners—to the history of sake and the process of how it is made from rice.
By tasting sake with different aromas and flavors, you’ll discover your own personal preferences, making it easier and more enjoyable to choose sake at restaurants. The event is limited to small groups of up to six people, ensuring an intimate and welcoming atmosphere. We warmly invite you to join us!
JewelTours Japan (JTJ) specializes in immersive tours that highlight Japan’s cultural treasures, iconic landmarks, and regional cuisines. Our curated itineraries cover Tokyo, Nikko, Hakone, Kyoto, Nara, Osaka, Kobe, Hiroshima, Miyajima, and Kamakura and more —woven together with expert local guides, incredible food tours, wonderful hotels, and a seamless blend of private and public transport.
Highlights include:
Famous sites like Meiji Shrine, Fushimi Inari, Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, and the Atomic Bomb Dome
Exclusive experiences like tea ceremonies, sake tastings, river cruises, and onsen stays
Culinary immersion through regional specialties from Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki to Kobe beef
Our journeys are crafted for first-time visitors, cultural seekers, and comfort-loving adventurers.
Wangun og is a team of passionate Japanese crew members who share a deep love for cars and Tokyo’s unique night culture. Our signature “Daikoku PA Car Meet Tour” offers guests the rare opportunity to ride in iconic JDM cars like the GTR, cruising along Tokyo’s expressways while visiting famous landmarks such as Rainbow Bridge and Tokyo Tower.
The final destination, Daikoku Parking Area, is a legendary hotspot where tuned and exotic cars from across Japan and beyond gather, allowing visitors to experience Japan’s underground car culture up close. It’s a one-of-a-kind journey where you can enjoy both breathtaking night views of Tokyo and the raw energy of authentic car meets.
An English-speaking guide joins every tour, ensuring first-time visitors feel comfortable and welcome. Perfect for car enthusiasts and those eager to explore Tokyo’s underground side.
From the City to Nature in 90 Minutes! Authentic Rafting at Outdoor Center Nagatoro
Located in Nagatoro, Saitama Prefecture, Outdoor Center Nagatoro is one of the Kanto region’s premier rafting spots, just about 90 minutes from Tokyo. The rafting tour covers roughly 7 km of the Arakawa River and lasts about three hours, offering a true adventure. With the support of professional guides, you’ll ride through rapids, jump into the river, stop by waterfalls, and fully enjoy a course filled with variety. Along the way, you’ll encounter Iwadatami, a nationally designated natural monument, whose size and beauty when viewed from the river are simply breathtaking.
English-speaking staff are always on hand, making the experience highly rated among international visitors. From reception to guiding during the tour, everything is taken care of so you can join with confidence. All necessary equipment is available for rent, so you can come empty-handed. Changing rooms, lockers, and free parking are also provided.
Just a three-minute walk from Kami-Nagatoro Station, the site is easily accessible by both train and car. On Google Reviews, the center boasts over 1,700 reviews with an outstanding ★4.9 rating, with comments such as “The guides are friendly,”“It was reassuring that they spoke English,” and “The free photo service was a great bonus.”
After the tour, be sure to enjoy local gourmet delights—soba noodles, regional dishes, wild game cuisine, and in summer, natural shaved ice. Combining sightseeing, activities, and food, Outdoor Center Nagatoro is the perfect destination for international visitors who want to truly experience Japan.
One of Japan’s largest zip trip courses has finally arrived in Odawara! Enjoy a dynamic zip trip experience through the forests of Odawara—just three minutes from the highway exit, with excellent access from Shonan, Hakone, Izu, and Mt. Fuji. It’s the perfect destination for a day-trip adventure.
Set against the enchanting backdrop of towering 300-year-old cedar trees and clear mountain streams, the park offers 13 unique ziplines and thrilling athletic challenges, delivering unforgettable adventures for both adults and children. There’s also a kids’ course available for participants as small as 90 cm tall, making it fun for the whole family. With plenty of shade, it stays cool even in summer.
The surrounding area is also well-equipped with activities and facilities such as Forest Bike, No Sauna, RE CAMP Odawara, and Ikoi no Mori. In Odawara, a city blessed with abundant nature, you can fully enjoy both the forest and the sea.
With a nationwide network of 16,000 classrooms and over 290 types of cultural lessons, we proudly offer JAPAN EXPERIENCE WONDER—a unique service designed for international visitors to experience Japanese culture firsthand.
Our programs cover a wide range of authentic cultural experiences, from tea ceremony and calligraphy to Japanese cuisine and traditional crafts. Every instructor is a seasoned professional who regularly teaches Japanese students, ensuring you receive a truly genuine and high-quality experience. This allows you to discover the “real Japan” that goes far beyond what guidebooks can offer.
All instructors are able to communicate in English, so participants can feel at ease without worrying about language barriers. More than just sightseeing, our goal is for you to take home unforgettable memories, moving experiences, and a deeper curiosity about Japanese culture.
We invite you to enjoy these once-in-a-lifetime experiences during your visit to Japan.
KAWAII OSAKA is a kimono rental shop located in Namba, one of Osaka’s top sightseeing areas. Same-day reservations are welcome, and even walk-ins without a booking are gladly accepted. Next-day returns are also possible. We offer a wide variety of kimono styles including traditional kimono, hakama, and furisode.
Why not stroll through Osaka’s famous landmarks—such as Osaka Castle, Namba Yasaka Shrine, Shitennoji Temple, Sumiyoshi Taisha, or Hozenji Temple—dressed in a beautiful kimono? Unlike Kyoto or Nara, you can also enjoy the unique experience of exploring the neon-lit streets around Dotonbori in traditional attire!
Kimono rentals start from ¥4,400 for the short plan, and we also have options for kids.
For those looking to purchase, ladies’ and men’s kimono are available starting from ¥8,800, while vintage kimono can be bought from as low as ¥3,300.
If you’re looking for affordable yet high-quality kimono in Osaka, KAWAII OSAKA is the place to go! We look forward to welcoming you!
At NicoTour Japan, we provide unique and original tours specially designed for international visitors to Japan. Traveling in Japan can sometimes be confusing due to unfamiliar local customs or hard-to-find information—but don’t worry! Our Tokyo-born guides, who know Japan inside and out, are here to help you experience the country with ease.
・Tattoo-Friendly Outdoor Hot Spring Experience Instead of touristy spots, we’ll take you to local hot springs that Japanese people actually visit. Since many hot springs in Japan don’t allow tattoos, it can be difficult for tattooed travelers. But with this tour, no problem—we’ll bring you to tattoo-friendly hot springs with the support of a guide.
・Plus & Regular Size Kimono Rental with Photography Most kimono rentals in Asakusa only offer up to L size. At NicoTour Japan, our kimono go up to 6L for both men and women. Your guide will also accompany you to Senso-ji Temple and other locations to help with photography.
・Sumo Morning Practice Viewing We’ll take you to Ryogoku’s Sumo Town to watch authentic morning practice up close. Feel the intensity just a few meters away, and take photos with the sumo wrestlers afterward.
・Professional Massage by a Licensed Therapist A certified judo therapist will give you a professional massage to relax your travel-weary body.
・Custom Tours We are happy to arrange original tours based on your requests. Please feel free to reach out and consult with us anytime!
A Supreme Sleep Experience for Those Who Struggle to Rest ～High Quality Sleep Experience～
At our salon, the Head Meister uses unique relaxation techniques that gently release tension from the head to the entire body.
Located just steps from Mizonokuchi Station, this private salon offers a space where you can sharpen your senses and relax without worry.
In our cloud-like reclining chairs, you can drift into a blissful state between wakefulness and sleep, experiencing ultimate comfort that lingers.
This one-of-a-kind dry head spa, available nowhere else in the world, is designed to soothe travel fatigue while giving you an unforgettable sleep-inducing attraction.
To fully enjoy the charms of every region in Japan, the “TOCOO!” rental‑car service is your best choice. By exploring at your own pace with a flexible schedule, you’ll discover wonderful experiences and create memories you won’t find in any guidebook. Make the most of your Japan trip by renting a car and immersing yourself in top sightseeing spots, exquisite local cuisine, and unforgettable adventures!
In Japan, the time period of January is called “o-shou-ga-tsu, Oshougatsu in Japan is an event for the family, much like Chinese New Year. Most Japanese people will be at home with their families come together to celebrate the New Year.
The o-souji ritual used to start on December. It has a practical and a spiritual significance. This major house cleaning is thought as a ritual to give a pleasant welcome to God on New Year’s Day.They will associate a big annual clean with spring, in Japan it’s done in the last days of the year – pretty much everywhere. Homes, schools and offices all get a thorough going over that creates a clean slate for the year ahead.
■New Year’s Decorations
After finish the house cleaning, it will start to decorate their houses with special decorations on December 28th and 30th. Please be carefully they would not do it on December 29th because that is apparently also not a good day to put up decorations because the number nine has the same sound as “suffer” (ku 苦) in Japanese, so it is also considered to be bad luck.
Let’s get to know the different Japanese new year decorations!
Kadomatsu
Kadomatsu are placed in pairs in front of the gate or front doors of homes to welcome the Shinto gods.
Shime-Kazari
Shimekazari will put it on top of the house entrance to prevent bad spirits from entering and to invite the Shinto deity, to descend and visit.
A round rice-cake
Japanese people will and place these at very visible places around their homes for decoration. Placing them in different rooms is said to bring more luck, as each room will welcome Shinto gods come and stay.
■nengajo (New Year’s cards)
People say ”あけましておめでとうございます(akemashite omedetou (gozaimasu)” which is meaning congratulations on the new year. They will send New Year’s cards called ”nengajo ”to their family or someone treated well by. Although with the growth of the Internet and cell phones, the number of people who send nengajo is decreasing yearly, The receiver can know your feeling during you hand writing. However, do not send the New Year’s cards to anyone who has had a death in the family during the year.
■Huge bellbsound and toshikoshi soba” (year-crossing soba)
New Year’s Eve is called “Oomisoka” in Japanese. At Buddhist temples, huge bells are hit 108 times during midnight to get rid of all evil desires. Most people believe that huge bells are hit 108 times during midnight to get rid of all evil desires. So that we will eat the “toshikoshi soba” when we hearing the huge bells sounds and wish for a long lasting life. You can still listen the huge bells sounds even while you’re staying at home because you can see it at the TV shows.
■Events and customs
The first sunrise
It is an event to worship the first sun rising on New Year’s Day, which is the beginning of the year since it is believed that the Shinto gods of the year appear with the first sunrise. So, people pray for good luck when the first sun rises.
First visiting to the Shrine
At the beginning of the year, people go to the shrine and pray for the safety and happiness of the new year. Some people leave their home to visit the shrine on the night of the 31st, or at the midnight, and some people just go there in the morning on January 1st or afternoon. Shrines are very crowded at this time of year. The money which you can put into the wooden box for good luck is well known as the more money you put into it, the more luck you will get. On the other hands, some people believe if you put 5 Yen, it is super lucky. Since the pronunciation of 5 Yen which is ‘go en’ sounds similar to the word ‘ご縁(go en)’ which means luck.
Osechi dish
It is a celebration meal that Japanese people have between January 1st and 3rd. Japanese people believe that Osechi dishes bring good luck in the sense of celebration. It is filled with grilled, boiled and pickled foods in a multitiered Japanese food box. It is made up of dishes which couldbepreserved longer time so that it can allow housewives who are busy with cooking take a rest around some days at the New Year.
Otoshidama
Originally, this began with the custom to give some left over rice cakes to children. but today it has become an event for adults to give money to children. It’s a small bag of money that children receive from their parents, grandfathers, grandmothers and relatives.
Kagami-mochi
You should eat Kagami-mochi which were offered to the Shinto gods after some days from the New Year day! People cut this rice cakes and put them into some red bean soup or Ozoni which is Dashi soup(Soup types and other ingredients might be changed up to the location.). They eat this praying for keeping good health of the new year. People eat this mostly on January 11th or 20th.
