Culture
Dive into the world of culture! Explore the traditions, festivals, and artistic expressions of different cultures around the globe. Learn about cultural insights, art, and heritage in our Culture category.
Trüelete Twann: The Wine Festival on Lake Biel – History, Food, Prices & Tips
The complete guide to the Trüelete in Twann, the traditional wine festival on Lake Biel: history, what to eat and drink, real prices, why you need cash, and how to get there by boat from Biel.
Tipping in Japan: Do You Tip? A Simple Guide
Do you tip in Japan? No, but there are exceptions. What to do in restaurants, taxis, ryokan and with tour guides, plus otoshi and service charges.
Shrines vs Temples in Japan: Differences and Etiquette
Shrine or temple? Learn how to tell them apart in Japan and how to visit both step by step: purification, prayer, omikuji and goshuin.
Best Observation Decks and Night Views in Tokyo
Best observation decks and night views in Tokyo: Shibuya Sky, Skytree, Tokyo Tower, Roppongi Hills, free viewpoints and tips for sunset photos.
Sento vs Onsen: Japanese Public Baths Explained
What is the difference between a sento and an onsen? Water, prices, tattoo rules and bathing etiquette for Japan’s public baths.
Japan in May: Weather, Golden Week and What to Do
Japan in May guide: weather by region, Golden Week tips, festivals like Sanja Matsuri, what to pack and where to go for a mild, green spring trip.
Is Anime Political? 13 Examples Read From the Left, Centre and Right
Is anime political? Many fans say no: it is just entertainment, giant robots, ninjas and pirates. But some of the most famous anime ever made are about war, empire, racism, surveillance, the environment and the question of who has the right to use violence. I lived in Tokyo for three years, and one thing I…
Tokyo Festivals by Month: A Year of Matsuri and Events
Tokyo festivals month by month: hatsumode, Setsubun, sakura, Sanja Matsuri, Koenji Awa Odori, Bakeneko, Christmas markets and KFC, with dates and tips.
Alte Brennerei Unterramsern: Art in a 1905 Potato Distillery
A 1903 potato schnapps distillery in the Bucheggberg turned into one of Switzerland’s most unusual art galleries. Its history, how to visit, and my reviews of its exhibitions, starting with Schang Hutter.
Chilbi in Switzerland: The Swiss Village Fair Explained
What is a Chilbi? A local’s guide to the traditional Swiss village fair: its history, rides, food, prices and tips, with the Chilbi Biberist and its rubber duck race as an example.
