Watching Apple Cider Vinegar reminded me how life comes full circle.

Sixteen years ago, I was a student in Queensland, soaking up the sunshine and trying to figure out my place in the world. Today, I’m hosting Australian guests through TokudAw, helping them discover Japan’s hidden gems.

Starting TokudAw wasn’t the end of my journey in nutrition—it was an evolution. And I’m grateful for everything that led me here. From my undergrad days to my Ph.D., to even the imposter syndrome that forced me to think bigger

While I may have shouted at my screen watching Apple Cider Vinegar, I also walked away with a renewed sense of purpose. Life doesn’t always follow a straight path. It twists and turns. But every step teaches you something.

To my Australian friends, the coffee’s still better where you are. But if you ever want to trade flat whites for matcha latte and explore Japan’s quieter side, you know where to find me

Japan remains one of the world’s safest travel destinations, but like anywhere, it comes with seasonal risks—especially in winter, when flu and norovirus cases spike. Crowded trains, busy tourist attractions, and indoor heating all contribute to the rapid spread of infections.

However, Japan’s strong culture of hygiene, like frequent handwashing, mask-wearing, and the use of antiseptic mouthwash, offers valuable lessons for travelers looking to stay well. Simple habits, smart precautions, and local knowledge can make all the difference.

Wanping Aw, a biomedical scientist and founder of TokudAw, has spent years bridging science with travel. With a Ph.D. in Biomedical Science and deep expertise in Japan’s medical landscape, she offers key insights into how travelers can protect themselves—and how TokudAw provides health-conscious solutions for those exploring Japan.

A simple guide to help you stay warm and cozy for your snow holiday in Japan

How to Dress for Winter and Snow

Layering is the best way to stay warm and dress in winter. You’ll need to dress in 3 layers–base layer, mid layer, outer layer. You’ll also need warm accessories, which we will cover in this guide for cold-weather dressing. Dressing in multiple layers not only helps to trap more heat than wearing just one thick layer, but it is also a very functional way to regulate your body temperature. As you move from the cold to a warmer place indoors, you’ll be glad to be able to remove some of those layers.

Imagine carving through clouds of featherlight snow, where every turn feels like gliding through silk. That’s Japow—a skier’s nirvana, and Japan’s ultimate winter gift.

But the magic doesn’t stop at the slopes. Soak tired legs in soothing onsens framed by snow-capped peaks and refuel with steaming bowls of soba or a bubbling hot pot, all while the lively yet serene ambiance of Japanese ski villages wraps around you.

If you haven’t already heard, this year, the Japan 2024-2025 snow forecast promises epic conditions, making it the perfect season to chase powder (more on that below).

So pack your gear, bring your appetite for adventure (and ramen), and prepare for a bucket-list-worthy ski season.

From ski-only resorts, resorts with night skiing, park skiing, tree skiing, off-piste skiing, and resorts for the ultimate Japow experience, you’ll find a resort to suit your needs.

Sushi may be Japan’s culinary icon, but when winter hits, the nation’s kitchens transform into havens of hearty, soul-warming dishes that go far beyond raw fish. Winter in Japan is a season of comfort food, where regional specialties and centuries-old recipes come together to fight off the chill. It’s the perfect time of year to savor the earthy steam rising from bowls of soba, the smoky tang of miso caramelizing on magnolia leaves, and the rich, umami depth of duck stews that warm you to your core.

Christmas Day is an eclectic mix of modern traditions and local favorites, from (Kentucky) fried chicken feasts to warming hot pots and delicacies that feel like a hug on a cold day. For travelers, Christmas food in Japan offers a unique opportunity to experience the country’s culinary diversity at its most magical. Whether you’re craving robust flavors or curious to try something completely new, the festive season is the perfect time to indulge. If you’re planning a trip this holiday season, tuck into this guide to Japan’s winter delicacies.