FUN JAPAN Philippines

27/12/2025

One of the greatest pleasures of winter shopping in Japan is, without a doubt, sales.

Winter items are often discounted by 20–50%, and toward the end of the sale period, discounts can sometimes reach as much as 80% off!

This article summarizes when sales begin at department stores and shopping malls in popular areas such as Tokyo and Osaka.

When does the winter bargain sale start? Here is the sales start schedule of department stores, shopping malls, and department stores in Tokyo, Osaka, Yokohama, etc.

26/12/2025

【Notice for New Year Holidays 2025-2026】The holiday period for Japan Information Media FUN! JAPAN will be from Saturday, December 27, 2025 to Sunday, January 4, 2026. In addition, we will thoroughly explain the etiquette of "nengajo" (New Year's cards), which is essential knowledge for those living in Japan. What happens if you send them before December 15? By when should you send them to ensure they arrive on New Year's Day? We will also introduce important points and etiquette to avoid mistakes.

【Notice for New Year Holidays 2025-2026】The holiday period for Japan Information Media FUN! JAPAN will be from Saturday, December 27, 2025 to Sunday, January 4, 2026. In addition, we will thoroughly explain the etiquette of "nengajo" (New Year's cards), which is essential knowledge for those liv...

26/12/2025

At the end of the year and the beginning of the New Year in Japan, many facilities and shops are closed.

If you are planning to go shopping or sightseeing, it is recommended to check information in advance!

To make your trip more enjoyable, please refer to this article, which answers questions like “Is the place I want to visit open?” and “When do New Year sales start?”

There are many places where department stores, department stores, restaurants and roadside shops are closed on New Year's holidays in Japan. If you visit Japan without know that, you might be end up "nothing to do!"

26/12/2025

[2025 Latest] Special Feature on “Convenience Store Exclusive Cosmetics” You Must Check Out When Traveling in Japan!
We have compiled a selection of limited-edition, high-performance mini-size items available at the three major convenience stores: 7-Eleven, FamilyMart, and Lawson. Here is the latest information on the trendiest cosmetics you can only find in Japan, perfect for personal use or as souvenirs.

[2025 Latest] Special Feature on “Convenience Store Exclusive Cosmetics” You Must Check Out When Traveling in Japan! We have compiled a selection of limited-edition, high-performance mini-size items available at the three major convenience stores: 7-Eleven, FamilyMart, and Lawson. Here is the la...

26/12/2025

From December 29 to around January 3, trains and buses in Japan operate on special schedules.

In addition, hospitals, banks, and post offices may be closed or operate with shortened hours that differ from normal.

“Unable to get around” or “unable to complete necessary procedures in time.”

To avoid such troubles, let’s quickly check the important year-end and New Year information in this article.

We have compiled information on holidays for the year-end and New Year holidays. We will also introduce the closures of government offices, medical institutions, post offices, etc., as well as information on the operation of major public transportation such as trains and buses in Tokyo, Osaka, and N...

25/12/2025

Starting from 10:00 AM on Tuesday, January 6, 2026, a collaboration project with Chiikawa will begin at Matsuya, which offers gyumeshi, curry, set meals, and other rice bowls, as well as at the tonkatsu restaurant Matsunoya. There will also be a special campaign where you can win original merchandise by lottery!

Starting from 10:00 AM on Tuesday, January 6, 2026, a collaboration project with Chiikawa will begin at Matsuya, which offers gyumeshi, curry, set meals, and other rice bowls, as well as at the tonkatsu restaurant Matsunoya. There will also be a special campaign where you can win original merchandis...

25/12/2025

A complete guide to all “Chiikawa” stores and facilities in Japan! Here is the latest information on Chiikawa Park, shops, restaurants, ramen, bakeries, takeout sweets, pop-ups, and the official online shop, all in one list. Locations include Tokyo, Osaka, Nagoya, Yokohama, Kyoto, and more.

24/12/2025

We’ll introduce you to the latest trends in Japan, from the most popular poses, phrases, and things in the winter of 2025, to favorite idols, artists, actors, voice actors, songs, characters, TV shows, and even the “next trends” predicted to take off soon.

23/12/2025

The food and lifestyle media outlet "macaroni" has announced its list of the "Top 10 Trendy Gourmet Foods" that attracted significant attention both in Japan and abroad in 2025. Through its own research and analysis of search trend data, it has become clear that "food trends" are accelerating alongside values that are "free and diverse" and "evoke a sense of nostalgia."

The food and lifestyle media outlet "macaroni" has announced its list of the "Top 10 Trendy Gourmet Foods" that attracted significant attention both in Japan and abroad in 2025. Through its own research and analysis of search trend data, it has become clear that "food trends" are accelerating alongs...

23/12/2025

Just 25 minutes by rapid train from Tokyo, Kawaguchi in Saitama is a “city of craftsmanship” where the tradition of metal casting lives on. The “design manholes,” which showcase the skills of local artisans, are quietly gaining attention as art beneath your feet. This comprehensive guide explores the many charms of Kawaguchi, from touring manholes around the station and shopping streets, to experiencing tinware making, viewing Japan’s largest collection of beigoma, and enjoying kamameshi rice and other popular local cuisine.

Just 25 minutes by rapid train from Tokyo, Kawaguchi in Saitama is a “city of craftsmanship” where the tradition of metal casting lives on. The “design manholes,” which showcase the skills of local artisans, are quietly gaining attention as art beneath your feet. This comprehensive guide exp...

22/12/2025

Fukushima, a region blessed with rich nature and deep-rooted traditions, is home to many beloved local specialties such as Mamador and Kurumi Yubeshi.

In this article, we have carefully selected and will introduce ten Fukushima souvenirs that locals truly recommend. This lineup is perfect not only for tourists visiting the area but also for those who love Japanese culture and regional gourmet treats.

Fukushima, a region blessed with rich nature and deep-rooted traditions, is home to many beloved local specialties such as Mamador and Kurumi Yubeshi. In this article, we have carefully selected and will introduce ten Fukushima souvenirs that locals truly recommend. This lineup is perfect not only f...

21/12/2025

Located right outside the Tokyo Station Yaesu North Exit, Tokyo Gift Palette, a hub for souvenirs and gifts, has announced its 2025 Popularity Rankings for products exclusive to the facility. Furthermore, the shop will feature colorful sweets inspired by next year's zodiac animal, the "Horse" (Uma), as well as New Year's limited-edition items incorporating traditional lucky charms. Here are some recommended sweets that are perfect for selecting year-end and New Year's gifts.

Located right outside the Tokyo Station Yaesu North Exit, Tokyo Gift Palette, a hub for souvenirs and gifts, has announced its 2025 Popularity Rankings for products exclusive to the facility. Furthermore, the shop will feature colorful sweets inspired by next year's zodiac animal, the "Horse" (Uma),...