JP Connection
Your Guide to Japanese Culture, Food, and Travel
Welcome to JP Connection
Welcome to the JP Connection website! I’m thrilled you’ve found your way here. Whether you’re a fellow Japanophile, someone curious about Japanese culture, or planning a trip to Japan , you’re in the right place.
Featured Articles
Our articles, crafted from our personal experiences in Japan and suggestions from users, are designed to enhance your trip preparation. We hope they offer valuable insights for your journey. If you have an idea for an article you would like to see, email us at info@kyotoepicure.com, or click here to use our contact form. See all our articles here.
Japan Must-See Festivals
The festivals of Japan promise unforgettable experiences.
Exploring Tokyo’s Vibrant Jazz Scene
Tokyo, Jazz Bars
Our recommendation of five must-visit jazz bars in Tokyo.
Exploring the Differences Between Shrines and Temples
Kamakura, Kyoto, Nara, Uji, Shrines, Temples
Our helpful guide when visiting Japan’s Shrines and Temples.
Two Perfect Days in Niseko
Niseko, Skiing
World-class, powder snow skiing and snowboarding adventure.
Michelin Star Picnic by the Kamo River
Kyoto, Dining & Drinking
Our Romantic Lunch Picnic with bento and sake!
Book Your Flight to Japan
Featured Locations
We’ve personally explored these spots and are excited to share our adventures with you. Stay tuned, as we plan to bring even more amazing locations to the JP Connection website soon! See all the locations we have traveled to here.
Hakodate
函館
Japan’s first city to have its port opened to foreign trade in 1854!
Kanazawa
金沢
History, culture, and cuisine within walking distance in Ishikawa Prefecture’s vibrant capital.
Nara
奈良
Ancient capital of Japan within 30-min train ride from Kyoto.
Tokyo
東京
Japan’s capital, where tradition meets tomorrow.
Kyoto
京都
Embrace Kyoto’s timeless elegance: cultural heritage, seasonal beauty, and exquisite cuisine.
Featured Places to Go
For the past 25 years, we’ve explored hundreds of destinations together and cherished unforgettable moments. We highly recommend these places that hold special memories for us. See all the recommended places twe have visited here.
Donjaka
If you’re looking for a cheap and tasty dining experience in Shinjuku, look no further than Donjaka located just one minute from the West Exit of Shinjuku Station
Mitsukoshi Ginza
Tokyo, Department Stores
Mitsukoshi Ginza (銀座三越): Tokyo’s premier department store offering luxury brands, gourmet food hall, top-notch customer service, and online shopping.
21st Century Museum
Kanazawa, Art Museums
One of the most visited museums in Japan.
Kikunoi Honten
Kyoto, Kaiseki
Our favorite restaurant in the world: Kikunoi Honten.
UNESCO Site
Tenryū-ji
Kyoto, Temples
Discover timeless serenity and culture at Tenryū-ji Temple – where history and nature unite in Kyoto’s heart.
Book Your Stay in Japan
Japanese Language Resources
Learn Daily Useful Phrases or Study the Japanese Language
Learning some Japanese before visiting Japan enhances your travel experience by facilitating smoother communication, deeper cultural understanding, and more meaningful interactions with locals. It shows respect for Japanese traditions and can help navigate daily activities, from dining in izakayas to exploring historic sites, making your journey more immersive and rewarding.
Our Daily Useful Phrases includes audio tools to learn phrases quickly.