🏡 What is Furusato Nozei? Japan’s Hometown Tax Explained

🏡 What is Furusato Nozei? Japan’s Hometown Tax Explained

If you live and pay taxes in Japan, you may have heard of Furusato Nozei (ふるさと納税), also known as the Hometown Tax Donation Program. This unique system allows taxpayers to donate to local municipalities across Japan and, in return, receive both tax deductions and thank-you gifts such as premium wagyu beef, fresh seafood, sake, or regional crafts.

Introduced in 2008, the program was designed to support rural areas suffering from depopulation and declining revenue. Today, it has grown into a popular tax-saving method that lets residents enjoy Japan’s regional specialties while lowering their tax burden.

💡 Advantages of Furusato Nozei for Taxpayers 💰 Tax Savings

The biggest benefit is the income tax and residence tax deduction. By donating, you can deduct the amount from your taxes.
👉 Example: Average IT engineer in Japan can donate at least ¥100,000 to their tax deduction (assuming no dependents or other deductions), and receive premium regional gifts in return.

🎁 Regional Gifts

Municipalities offer unique “返礼品” (thank-you gifts), including seasonal fruits, rice, wagyu beef, seafood, sake, and even travel vouchers. It’s a win-win: support local communities while receiving premium products.

🌏 Freedom of Choice

You don’t need to donate to your registered hometown — you can choose any municipality in Japan. Many taxpayers select regions known for foods, drinks, or experiences they love.

🛒 Amazon Furusato Nozei – Donate Easily with Your Amazon Account

Did you know you can now use Amazon Japan for your Furusato Nozei donations?

Amazon’s platform makes it incredibly convenient to browse municipalities and gifts. With Amazon, you can:

  1. 🔍 Search thousands of gifts using familiar filters.
  2. 💳 Pay with saved payment methods or gift cards.
  3. 📦 Track donations in your order history.
  4. 🧾 Download official receipts for tax deductions.
  5. 🎁 Earn Amazon Points on some donations.

👉 Click here to explore Amazon Furusato Nozei gifts

This makes Amazon one of the easiest ways to participate, especially if you already shop there.

📅 How and When to Use Furusato Nozei
  1. Donation Period: Anytime during the year.
  2. Deadline: December 31 (donations must be completed by then for that year’s tax deduction).
📝 How to Apply

【ふるさと納税】 \レビューキャンペーン実施中!/ 厚切り牛タン塩味 1kg(500g×2パック) ≪ すぐ届く!スピード発送! or 選べる配送時期≫ 牛肉 肉 焼肉 BBQ たんもと たんなか 塩牛タン 冷凍 真空パック 味付け肉 一番人気 塩味 お取り寄せ 岩手県 花巻市
価格:15,000円(税込、送料無料) (2025/9/2時点)

楽天で購入


 

 

  1. Choose a donation portal (e.g., Amazon or Rakuten Furusato Nozei).
  2. Select a municipality and gift.
  3. Donate online via credit card or other payment methods.
  4. Then, apply for tax benefits, One-Stop Special Exception, online! Yup, you heard that right! online!
    1. mypage
    2. furumado
🔑 Tips for Maximizing Benefits
  1. Know Your Maximum Limit: Use donation calculators to estimate your maximum deduction.
  2. Donate Early: Popular gifts sell out in December.
🔎 Amazon vs. Rakuten Furusato Nozei: Which is Better? Feature🛒 Amazon Furusato Nozei🛍️ Rakuten Furusato NozeiEase of UseSimple if you already use Amazon. Donations process like regular orders.Easy if you’re a frequent Rakuten shopper.Payment OptionsAmazon Pay, credit card, gift cards.Credit card, Rakuten Pay, Rakuten Points.Points & RewardsSometimes offers Amazon Points.Strong point-back campaigns, especially during sales.Gift SelectionWide variety, but smaller than Rakuten.One of the largest gift selections in Japan.Tracking DonationsAppears in Amazon order history.Appears in Rakuten purchase history.Best ForConvenience & speed.Maximizing points & rewards.

Recommendation:

  1. Use Amazon for simplicity and speed.
  2. Use Rakuten if you want to maximize points.
  3. Many taxpayers use both for the best benefits.

👉 Try Amazon Furusato Nozei today

📝 One-Stop Application for Furusato Nozei (ワンストップ特例制度)

The One-Stop Special Exception (ワンストップ特例制度) is a simplified system that allows Furusato Nozei donors to skip filing a tax return (確定申告). Instead, you just send a simple application form to each municipality you donated to.

This is highly recommended for most people, especially salaried workers who don’t normally file a tax return in Japan.

✅ Who Can Use the One-Stop Application?
  1. You are a resident taxpayer in Japan.
  2. You donate to five or fewer municipalities per year.
  3. You are not self-employed (since self-employed taxpayers usually need to file a tax return anyway).

👉 If you meet these conditions, the One-Stop system is the fastest and easiest way to get your Furusato Nozei deductions.

【ふるさと納税】 あとからセレクト 【ふるさとギフト】 寄附1,000円〜30万円相当 / あとから選べる ギフト さくらんぼ ラ・フランス 西洋梨 フルーツ お米 山形県 東根市
価格:1,000円~(税込、送料無料) (2025/9/1時点)

楽天で購入


 

 

📌 How to Fill Out the One-Stop Application Form

When you make a Furusato Nozei donation, the municipality will send you:

  1. 寄附金受領証明書 (Donation Receipt)
  2. One-Stop Application Form

Steps:

  1. Fill in your personal details (name, address, date of birth, My Number).
  2. Attach copies of your My Number card (both front & back) or My Number notification card + official ID (e.g., driver’s license).
  3. Sign and date the form.
  4. Mail the form back to the municipality before January 10 of the following year.

👉 Pro tip: Amazon and Rakuten let you request the One-Stop form automatically when making your donation. Just check the box, and the municipality will send it to you.

👉 Pro tip: It can be done online in just a few steps, without the hassle of filing a full tax return!

🏆 Why Use the One-Stop Application?
  1. No need to file a tax return — perfect for busy professionals.
  2. Simple paperwork — just one short form per municipality.
  3. Automatic deduction — your residence tax is reduced directly in the following year.

⚠️ Important: If you forget to send the One-Stop form or donate to more than 5 municipalities, you’ll need to file a tax return instead.

【ふるさと納税】あとからセレクト【ふるさとギフト】 - 1万円〜5万円 宮崎牛/牛肉/豚肉/鶏肉/お惣菜/おかず/クラフトジン/日本酒/出汁/うどん/地鶏/訳あり/スイーツ 後から選べる ゆっくり選ぶ あとから選べる返礼品 送料無料【宮崎県木城町】
価格:10,000円~(税込、送料無料) (2025/9/1時点)

楽天で購入


 

 

💡 Tips to Maximize Your Tax Benefits
  1. Use multiple platforms (Amazon, Rakuten) for more options.
  2. Time your donations to coincide with seasonal products (e.g., summer fruit, winter crab).
⏰ Furusato Nozei Deadline: Don’t Miss December 31

Furusato Nozei is more than a tax-saving system — it’s a way to support Japan’s local communities while enjoying premium products. To qualify for this year’s deduction, donations must be made by December 31.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions about Furusato Nozei
  1. What is Furusato Nozei?
    A system where taxpayers donate to municipalities and receive tax deductions plus thank-you gifts.
  2. Who can use it?
    Anyone who pays income or residence tax in Japan, including foreigners.
  3. How much can I donate?
    No upper limit, but only donations within your tax cap are fully deductible.
  4. Do I need to file taxes?
    1. No, if you donate to ≤5 municipalities (One-Stop Exception).
    2. Yes, if you donate to ≥6 municipalities.
  5. What’s the deadline?
    December 31 each year.
  6. What gifts can I get?
    Wagyu beef, seafood, fruits, rice, sake, craft beer, travel vouchers, and more.
🎯 Conclusion: Don’t Miss Out on Furusato Nozei Benefits

Furusato Nozei is one of the smartest financial strategies in Japan. By donating before December 31, you can:

  1. ✅ Save money on taxes.
  2. ✅ Support local communities.
  3. ✅ Enjoy premium regional gifts.

👉 Ready to get started?
The easiest way is through Amazon, where you can donate in just a few clicks.
👉 Start your Furusato Nozei donation on Amazon today

Don’t wait for the year-end rush — secure your gifts and maximize your tax savings now!

If you live and pay taxes in Japan, you may have heard of Furusato Nozei (ふるさと納税), also known as the Hometown Tax Donation Program. This unique system allows taxpayers to donate to local municipalities across Japan and, in return, receive both tax deductions and thank-you gifts such as premium wagyu beef, fresh seafood, sake, or regional crafts.

Introduced in 2008, the program was designed to support rural areas suffering from depopulation and declining revenue. Today, it has grown into a popular tax-saving method that lets residents enjoy Japan’s regional specialties while lowering their tax burden.

💡 Advantages of Furusato Nozei for Taxpayers 💰 Tax Savings

The biggest benefit is the income tax and residence tax deduction. By donating, you can deduct the amount from your taxes.
👉 Example: Average IT engineer in Japan can donate at least ¥100,000 to their tax deduction (assuming no dependents or other deductions), and receive premium regional gifts in return.

🎁 Regional Gifts

Municipalities offer unique “返礼品” (thank-you gifts), including seasonal fruits, rice, wagyu beef, seafood, sake, and even travel vouchers. It’s a win-win: support local communities while receiving premium products.

🌏 Freedom of Choice

You don’t need to donate to your registered hometown — you can choose any municipality in Japan. Many taxpayers select regions known for foods, drinks, or experiences they love.

🛒 Amazon Furusato Nozei – Donate Easily with Your Amazon Account

Did you know you can now use Amazon Japan for your Furusato Nozei donations?

Amazon’s platform makes it incredibly convenient to browse municipalities and gifts. With Amazon, you can:

  1. 🔍 Search thousands of gifts using familiar filters.
  2. 💳 Pay with saved payment methods or gift cards.
  3. 📦 Track donations in your order history.
  4. 🧾 Download official receipts for tax deductions.
  5. 🎁 Earn Amazon Points on some donations.

👉 Click here to explore Amazon Furusato Nozei gifts

This makes Amazon one of the easiest ways to participate, especially if you already shop there.

📅 How and When to Use Furusato Nozei
  1. Donation Period: Anytime during the year.
  2. Deadline: December 31 (donations must be completed by then for that year’s tax deduction).
📝 How to Apply

【ふるさと納税】 \レビューキャンペーン実施中!/ 厚切り牛タン塩味 1kg(500g×2パック) ≪ すぐ届く!スピード発送! or 選べる配送時期≫ 牛肉 肉 焼肉 BBQ たんもと たんなか 塩牛タン 冷凍 真空パック 味付け肉 一番人気 塩味 お取り寄せ 岩手県 花巻市
価格:15,000円(税込、送料無料) (2025/9/2時点)

楽天で購入


 

 

  1. Choose a donation portal (e.g., Amazon or Rakuten Furusato Nozei).
  2. Select a municipality and gift.
  3. Donate online via credit card or other payment methods.
  4. Then, apply for tax benefits, One-Stop Special Exception, online! Yup, you heard that right! online!
    1. mypage
    2. furumado
🔑 Tips for Maximizing Benefits
  1. Know Your Maximum Limit: Use donation calculators to estimate your maximum deduction.
  2. Donate Early: Popular gifts sell out in December.
🔎 Amazon vs. Rakuten Furusato Nozei: Which is Better? Feature🛒 Amazon Furusato Nozei🛍️ Rakuten Furusato NozeiEase of UseSimple if you already use Amazon. Donations process like regular orders.Easy if you’re a frequent Rakuten shopper.Payment OptionsAmazon Pay, credit card, gift cards.Credit card, Rakuten Pay, Rakuten Points.Points & RewardsSometimes offers Amazon Points.Strong point-back campaigns, especially during sales.Gift SelectionWide variety, but smaller than Rakuten.One of the largest gift selections in Japan.Tracking DonationsAppears in Amazon order history.Appears in Rakuten purchase history.Best ForConvenience & speed.Maximizing points & rewards.

Recommendation:

  1. Use Amazon for simplicity and speed.
  2. Use Rakuten if you want to maximize points.
  3. Many taxpayers use both for the best benefits.

👉 Try Amazon Furusato Nozei today

📝 One-Stop Application for Furusato Nozei (ワンストップ特例制度)

The One-Stop Special Exception (ワンストップ特例制度) is a simplified system that allows Furusato Nozei donors to skip filing a tax return (確定申告). Instead, you just send a simple application form to each municipality you donated to.

This is highly recommended for most people, especially salaried workers who don’t normally file a tax return in Japan.

✅ Who Can Use the One-Stop Application?
  1. You are a resident taxpayer in Japan.
  2. You donate to five or fewer municipalities per year.
  3. You are not self-employed (since self-employed taxpayers usually need to file a tax return anyway).

👉 If you meet these conditions, the One-Stop system is the fastest and easiest way to get your Furusato Nozei deductions.

【ふるさと納税】 あとからセレクト 【ふるさとギフト】 寄附1,000円〜30万円相当 / あとから選べる ギフト さくらんぼ ラ・フランス 西洋梨 フルーツ お米 山形県 東根市
価格:1,000円~(税込、送料無料) (2025/9/1時点)

楽天で購入


 

 

📌 How to Fill Out the One-Stop Application Form

When you make a Furusato Nozei donation, the municipality will send you:

  1. 寄附金受領証明書 (Donation Receipt)
  2. One-Stop Application Form

Steps:

  1. Fill in your personal details (name, address, date of birth, My Number).
  2. Attach copies of your My Number card (both front & back) or My Number notification card + official ID (e.g., driver’s license).
  3. Sign and date the form.
  4. Mail the form back to the municipality before January 10 of the following year.

👉 Pro tip: Amazon and Rakuten let you request the One-Stop form automatically when making your donation. Just check the box, and the municipality will send it to you.

👉 Pro tip: It can be done online in just a few steps, without the hassle of filing a full tax return!

🏆 Why Use the One-Stop Application?
  1. No need to file a tax return — perfect for busy professionals.
  2. Simple paperwork — just one short form per municipality.
  3. Automatic deduction — your residence tax is reduced directly in the following year.

⚠️ Important: If you forget to send the One-Stop form or donate to more than 5 municipalities, you’ll need to file a tax return instead.

【ふるさと納税】あとからセレクト【ふるさとギフト】 - 1万円〜5万円 宮崎牛/牛肉/豚肉/鶏肉/お惣菜/おかず/クラフトジン/日本酒/出汁/うどん/地鶏/訳あり/スイーツ 後から選べる ゆっくり選ぶ あとから選べる返礼品 送料無料【宮崎県木城町】
価格:10,000円~(税込、送料無料) (2025/9/1時点)

楽天で購入


 

 

💡 Tips to Maximize Your Tax Benefits
  1. Use multiple platforms (Amazon, Rakuten) for more options.
  2. Time your donations to coincide with seasonal products (e.g., summer fruit, winter crab).
⏰ Furusato Nozei Deadline: Don’t Miss December 31

Furusato Nozei is more than a tax-saving system — it’s a way to support Japan’s local communities while enjoying premium products. To qualify for this year’s deduction, donations must be made by December 31.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions about Furusato Nozei
  1. What is Furusato Nozei?
    A system where taxpayers donate to municipalities and receive tax deductions plus thank-you gifts.
  2. Who can use it?
    Anyone who pays income or residence tax in Japan, including foreigners.
  3. How much can I donate?
    No upper limit, but only donations within your tax cap are fully deductible.
  4. Do I need to file taxes?
    1. No, if you donate to ≤5 municipalities (One-Stop Exception).
    2. Yes, if you donate to ≥6 municipalities.
  5. What’s the deadline?
    December 31 each year.
  6. What gifts can I get?
    Wagyu beef, seafood, fruits, rice, sake, craft beer, travel vouchers, and more.
🎯 Conclusion: Don’t Miss Out on Furusato Nozei Benefits

Furusato Nozei is one of the smartest financial strategies in Japan. By donating before December 31, you can:

  1. ✅ Save money on taxes.
  2. ✅ Support local communities.
  3. ✅ Enjoy premium regional gifts.

👉 Ready to get started?
The easiest way is through Amazon, where you can donate in just a few clicks.
👉 Start your Furusato Nozei donation on Amazon today

Don’t wait for the year-end rush — secure your gifts and maximize your tax savings now!

【ふるさと納税】 温州みかん (約3.5kg・5kg・10kg) みかん ミカン 蜜柑 うんしゅうみかん 柑橘 早生 フルーツ 果物 くだもの 果実 国産 大分県宇佐市産 <11月以降順次発送><数量限定><容量・配送時期が選べる>【103600700・103600101・103600201】【井上農園】
価格:5,000円~(税込、送料無料) (2025/9/2時点)

楽天で購入


 

 

...
🗾 Discover Shikoku: A Storybook 4-Day Trip in Kōchi & Ehime
🗾 Discover Shikoku: A Storybook 4-Day Trip in Kōchi & Ehime

🏯 Begin Your Shikoku Story

"Welcome to Dōgo Onsen," the attendant smiled as warm mist curled through one of Japan’s oldest and most legendary baths. It was our first night in Shikoku, and already, the island was casting its spell.

♨️ One of the Oldest Hot Springs in the Country, Known for Its Traditional Architecture and Healing Waters 🌸

Ehime and Kōchi—two prefectures tucked along the coasts of Shikoku Island—offer a perfect four-day escape into Japan's soul. Here, history and hospitality mingle, from ancient castles and timeless hot springs to bustling markets and riverfront sunsets.

🌏 Why Visit Kōchi & Ehime?

Nestled in southwestern Japan, Kōchi and Ehime remain blissfully underexplored. Kōchi charms visitors with dramatic Pacific coastlines, tranquil rivers like the Shimanto, and tales of samurai hero Sakamoto Ryōma. Its Sunday Market buzzes with life, and katsuo no tataki (seared bonito) sizzles with smoky flavor.

Ehime, on the other hand, offers calm and culture. In Matsuyama, steam rises from Dōgo Onsen, inspiration for Studio Ghibli's Spirited Away, while Matsuyama Castle guards the skyline above citrus groves and literary trails.

Here, the pace slows. You cycle across sky-high bridges on the Shimanami Kaidō, wander Edo-era towns like Uchiko, and find yourself chatting with locals at izakayas.

👘 Strolling through Ehime’s morning market 🌞—kimono style, local flavors, and lively vibes! 🧺🇯🇵 #Ehime #JapanTravel #MorningMarket #KimonoGirls #LocalExperience #CulturalJapan #HiddenGemsJapan

⏳ Is 4 Days Enough in Kōchi & Ehime?

Absolutely. With four days, you can:

  1. Soak in Dōgo Onsen’s steaming heritage
  2. Explore Matsuyama’s historical treasures
  3. Cycle the scenic Shimanami Kaidō or stroll Uchiko’s old merchant streets
  4. Discover samurai legends, markets, and beaches in Kōchi
  5. Take in mountain air, river walks, and island views

It’s just enough time to fall in love—and start planning your return.

📶 Best Options for Internet in Japan

📱 1. Airalo eSIM – Fast, Easy, and Instant Setup

👉 Get your Japan eSIM via Airalo

👉 Get your Japan eSIM via Airalo

Stay connected the moment you land—no SIM swapping, no store visits, no language barrier.

Why Choose Airalo eSIM?

  1. Buy online before your trip, install in minutes via the Airalo app
  2. Plans available for 7, 15, or 30 days with flexible data options
  3. Works instantly upon arrival—perfect for airport navigation or hailing a cab
  4. Ideal for short-term travelers, digital nomads, or those switching cities often
  5. Uses major Japanese networks like KDDI or SoftBank for wide coverage

Pro Tip: Make sure your smartphone is unlocked and eSIM-compatible before purchase.

📱 2. Local SIM Card – Traditional but Reliable

Prefer a physical SIM? Japan has a solid selection of prepaid SIM cards available across major cities and airports.

Where to Buy a Local SIM Card in Japan:

  1. 🛬 Narita, Haneda, and Kansai International Airports – vending machines and kiosks
  2. 🏪 Convenience stores (like Lawson or Bic Camera)
  3. 📍 Electronics retailers – Bic Camera, Yodobashi Camera, and SoftBank stores

Top SIM Card Providers in Japan:

  1. Sakura Mobile – Great for tourists, easy English support, airport pickup
  2. Mobal – Offers voice + data, long validity options, English customer service
  3. IIJmio Japan Travel SIM – Data-only plans with easy setup
  4. Japan Wireless – Delivers SIMs to your hotel or airport
  5. SoftBank Prepaid SIM – Broad network coverage, ideal for data-heavy users

Things to Note:

  1. 📝 Passport required for purchase
  2. 📱 SIM must match your device size and be compatible with Japan's networks
  3. ⏳ Activation may take a few minutes to an hour depending on the provider

🚀 BONUS: Pocket WiFi – Best for Groups & Unlimited Data

Renting a Pocket WiFi router is a great option if traveling in a group or needing unlimited high-speed internet.

🔌 Connect multiple devices at once 📦 Reserve online and pick up at the airport or have it shipped to your hotel 🌍 Popular providers: Japan Wireless, Ninja WiFi, Global Advanced Communications

🚶‍♂️ Tranquil streets of Ehime—soft footsteps, warm light, and timeless charm 🌙🏘️ #EhimeJapan #HiddenJapan #QuietMoments #SlowTravel #WabiSabiVibes

🌧️ Best Time to Visit Kōchi & Ehime

  1. Spring (Mar–May): Cherry blossoms around castles and parks.
  2. Summer (Jun–Aug): Yosakoi Festival, river adventures, but humid.
  3. Autumn (Sep–Nov): Cool, colorful, and ideal for exploring.
  4. Winter (Dec–Feb): Peaceful, mild weather and perfect onsen season.
🌿 Cool Mist at Uryu Falls in Nanokawa 💦—A Refreshing Stop Between Ehime and Kochi 🚗 #UryuFalls #Nanokawa #EhimeToKochi #JapanNature #HiddenJapan #WaterfallEscape #RoadTripJapan

🛏️ Top Places to Stay in Ehime

✅ Must-Do Activities in Ehime

🛏️ Top Places to Stay in Kōchi

✅ Must-Do Activities in Kōchi

✈️ How to Get from Matsuyama Airport to City Center

  1. Airport Limousine Bus: ~30 minutes to Dōgo Onsen or Matsuyama Station
  2. Taxi: ~20 minutes
  3. Rental Car: Ideal if you're exploring the countryside

🚇 Getting Around

  1. Trains: JR Shikoku links major cities
  2. Trams: Matsuyama’s retro trams are part of the charm
  3. Buses: Local lines cover mountainous and rural areas
  4. Rental Car: Best for Shimanto River, coastlines, and flexibility
  5. Bicycles: Ride the Shimanami Kaidō!
  6. Walking: City centers and historic areas are best explored on foot
🚂 Retro-Modern Scenic Ride Along Iyonada Coastline, with Citrus-Colored Carriages & Local Hospitality 🌅 #TarutoTrain #EhimeTravel #JapanRail #ScenicRoute

🛡️ Is It Safe?

Yes—Kōchi and Ehime are two of the safest, friendliest regions in Japan. Locals go out of their way to help. Basic travel smarts apply, but you’ll mostly remember the smiles.

📍 Day-by-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Matsuyama’s Castles & Steam

  1. Morning: Matsuyama Castle via ropeway; explore the original keep and stone walls

    🏯 Welcome to Ehime’s Matsuyama Castle—historic charm, epic views, and a journey back in time 🇯🇵🌸 #MatsuyamaCastle #EhimeJapan #JapanHeritage #CastleViews #HiddenJapan
  2. Midday: Bansuisō Villa; lunch on tai meshi (sea bream rice)
  3. Afternoon: Bathe in Dōgo Onsen Honkan; stroll Dōgo Arcade in yukata

    🛁 Soaking at Dōgo Onsen Honkan in Ehime—3,000 years of tradition, imperial elegance, and Spirited Away vibes 🌸🕯️ #DogoOnsen #Matsuyama #Ehime #OnsenJapan #HistoricBathhouse #JapanTravel

Day 2: Day Trip – Uchiko or Shimanami Kaidō

🍊 Orange juice from a faucet? Only in Ehime! A juicy twist on local pride 🇯🇵 #EhimeMikan #OrangeJuiceFaucet #OnlyInJapan #EhimeJapan #CitrusHeaven #MatsuyamaMoments
  1. Option 1: Uchiko: Visit Edo-era merchant houses and the Uchiko-za Theater
  2. Option 2: Shimanami Kaidō: Rent a bike and ride from Imabari across the sea

    🏯 Ehime Castle Perched Atop Mount Katsuyama—silent, strong, and timeless. 🏯✨ #EhimeCastle #MountainCastle #MatsuyamaViews #SamuraiHeritage #HiddenJapan

    Evening: Back in Matsuyama, enjoy local sake and jakoten at an izakaya

Day 3: Kōchi’s Heritage and Seaside

  1. Morning: Travel to Kōchi (2.5 hours by train or rent a car for 3 days)

    🧭 Journey into the depths of Ryugado Cave in Kochi Prefecture 🇯🇵—a 175-million-year-old limestone wonder featuring stunning stalactites, underground rivers, and immersive light displays. 🌌 #RyugadoCave #KochiJapan #LimestoneCaves #AdventureAwaits #GeologicalWonders #ExploreJapan
  2. Midday: Tour Kōchi Castle and feast at Hirome Market
  3. Afternoon: Visit Katsurahama Beach and the statue of Sakamoto Ryōma

    ⛩️ Crowds Gather at Sakamoto Ryōma Shrine in Kochi 🇯🇵—Honoring the Legendary Samurai and Revolutionary Leader 🔥 #SakamotoRyoma #KochiJapan #SamuraiHeritage #JapaneseShrines #CulturalJapan #TravelJapan
  4. Evening: Explore Harimayabashi Bridge and downtown streets

Day 4: Scenic Farewell

  1. Morning: Optional visit to Shimanto River for a walk or boat ride
  2. Afternoon: Return to Matsuyama; shop at Dōgo Arcade or Station

    🌫️ Through whispering pines and veils of mist, the road winds past Tengu Highlands—where nature’s magic lingers and every breath feels like a timeless poem. Returning to Ehime, the heart carries the mountain’s quiet song. 🍃✨🇯🇵
  3. Evening: Depart via Matsuyama Airport

🌐 Essential Travel Tips

  1. JR Pass: Covers trains across Shikoku
  2. Souvenirs: Yuzu products (Kōchi), Mikan sweets (Ehime), local sake
  3. Luggage Forwarding: Use it for smooth city-hopping
  4. Language: A smile and a translation app go a long way

📆 FAQ

Q: Can I use my JR Pass?
A: Yes, on JR Shikoku trains connecting major cities.

Q: Do people speak English?
A: Not widely, but signs in tourist areas are bilingual. Use a translation app and basic phrases.

Q: What should I pack?
A: Walking shoes, towel for onsen, refillable bottle, hat for summer or rain gear for spring.

Q: What souvenirs are best?
A: Local citrus sweets, Sakamoto Ryōma memorabilia, hand-crafted paper goods from Uchiko.

🏯 Ehime Castle’s Ingenious Defense Architecture 🔥—Strategically Designed Small Arrow Slits and Gun Ports Allow Samurai to Shoot Enemies Safely from Inside the Fortress Walls 🛡️⚔️🇯🇵

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🛁 Japanese Public Bath - Tips for the Shy Foreigners
🛁 Japanese Public Bath - Tips for the Shy Foreigners

"How can Japanese people, often thought of as shy or reserved, feel so at ease being naked in a public bath?" — This is one of the most common questions I get from foreign friends—especially those who’ve never been to Japan.

Interestingly, most foreigners who actually live in Japan seem to have gotten used to onsen (温泉, hot springs) culture—and many even come to love it. Once you try it, it’s easy to see why. Soaking in a warm, mineral-rich bath after a long day of sightseeing or work is incredibly soothing, both physically and mentally.

Japan is an increasingly popular destination for travelers, thanks to its mix of ultra-modern cities and deeply rooted traditions, seasonal beauty, and world-class cuisine. But how many visitors actually make time to experience an onsen?

Japan is an increasingly popular destination for travelers, thanks to its mix of ultra-modern cities and deeply rooted traditions, seasonal beauty, and world-class cuisine. But how many visitors actually make time to experience an onsen?

And more importantly, for those who do—how many are able to relax and enjoy the experience fully?

If you're interested but hesitant because of cultural differences, modesty, or fear of doing something wrong, don’t worry. I totally get it. Some people might also have legitimate reasons for avoiding public baths—religious beliefs, tattoos, or health-related concerns. But if you’re simply nervous or unsure, here are some tips that might help you feel more confident and comfortable.

As someone who grew up in a Japanese family that regularly visited public baths, I can tell you: it’s worth trying. Now that I live abroad, I find myself truly missing the onsen experience.

 

🏨 Onsen Day Trip or Stay in a Ryokan?

Japan is home to over 27,000 hot spring sources, and around 3,000 onsen facilities are in use across the country. Whether you're staying in a luxurious ryokan (traditional inn) or just looking for a short, relaxing visit, there are plenty of options.

Most ryokan offer at least one onsen, often with multiple baths in different styles, sometimes separated by indoor and open-air sections. On the other hand, day-use onsen are also widely available and usually cost between 500–1,000 yen.

 

 

📏 Basic Onsen Etiquette: What to Know Before You Go

🧻 1. Bring the Right Towels

You’ll need two towels:

  1. A small towel (face or hand towel) to use while in the bath.
  2. A larger bath towel for drying off afterward.

Don’t bring the big towel into the bathing area. Most hotels provide towels, and day-use onsen often sell them at the entrance.

🧴 2. Soap and Shampoo

Most onsen provide shampoo, conditioner, and body soap at the shower stations. But if you prefer your own brand, feel free to bring it.

👞 3. Take Off Your Shoes

As soon as you enter the facility, take off your shoes and place them in the shoe lockers or cubbyholes provided.

🧺 4. Use the Locker Room

Find an available basket or locker in the changing area. Undress completely and bring only your small towel into the bath. If it’s a locker, keep the key around your wrist.

🚿 5. Wash Before You Soak

Always rinse your body at the shower station before getting into the bath. No need to wash your hair just yet—just rinse off any sweat or dirt. Later, you can return to the shower for a proper wash and shampoo.

🧼 6. Keep Your Towel Out of the Water

You can use your small towel to modestly cover yourself while walking around, but do not dip it into the bathwater. People usually place it on their head or leave it nearby.

😌 7. Relax and Enjoy

Ease yourself into the bath slowly. You can chat quietly with friends, or just close your eyes and enjoy the peace. No one is judging you—most people are too relaxed to care what others look like.

♨️ 8. Explore Different Baths

Many onsen have multiple tubs with varying temperatures, minerals, or views. Spend around 10–15 minutes in one, then move to another. Outdoor baths (rotenburo) offer beautiful natural settings and fresh air. Saunas are also common, and rotating between hot and cold helps boost circulation and detox.

Here’s an example of a foot bath (足湯, ashi-yu)—a small bath for your feet only, which you can enjoy fully clothed. It’s surprisingly effective at warming your whole body!

🚿 9. After Bathing

Some onsen discourage rinsing off after bathing, as the minerals are thought to benefit the skin. However, if you prefer not to walk around feeling sticky or smelling like sulfur, it's totally okay to do a quick rinse before dressing.

🥛 10. Don’t Miss the Post-Bath Treats

Many onsen have vending machines offering cold bottled milk, fruit juices, or coffee milk. It’s a fun little tradition to enjoy a chilled drink right after your bath. Beer is also often available if that’s your preference!

🌄 Final Thoughts

Japan’s onsen culture is vast and varied—stretching from Hokkaido in the north to Kyushu in the south. Each region has its own unique mineral content, bathing traditions, and scenic surroundings. If you’re traveling around the country, I highly recommend visiting a few different onsen to experience the full range of what they offer.

So, if you’re on the fence about trying an onsen—give it a go. It might just become one of your favorite memories of Japan.