Activities & latest news in Japan

ANA Launches Stockholm Tokyo Route

Pack your passports and prep your taste buds—Sweden and Japan are now closer than ever, and not just in spirit. All Nippon Airways (ANA), Japan’s biggest airline and a champion of impeccable in-flight service (seriously, have you seen their bento boxes?), has just launched a direct route between Stockholm Arlanda and Tokyo Haneda.

Starting January 31, 2025, this new flight will run three times a week, making it easier than ever for Swedes to swap fika for sushi and for Japanese travellers to embrace the wonders of ABBA, IKEA, and meatballs drowning in lingonberry sauce.

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A Business and Tourism Game Changer

Japan isn’t only famous for its anime, cherry blossoms, and advanced toilets, it happens to be Sweden’s second largest trading partner in Asia. This infers that the new journey is not solely centered around magnificent vacations (though lets face it, that is a huge bonus). It is also a huge victory for enterprises, promoting trade and enabling corporate handshakes at altitude of 35,000 feet.

Stockholm Gets a Boost as a Global Hub

ANA’s expansion isn’t stopping here. With Stockholm now officially on the map, ANA is solidifying the city’s role as a major European hub. And in case that wasn’t enough, the airline is also rolling out a new Istanbul service in February 2025, because apparently, they’re on a mission to connect the world, one flight at a time.

So, What’s Next?

If you’ve ever dreamed of cherry blossoms in Tokyo or ramen-fueled adventures in Shinjuku, your moment has arrived. Likewise, if Japan is calling Swedes for business, design inspiration, or simply an excuse to buy a suitcase full of quirky vending machine snacks—ANA’s got you covered.

ANA Launches Stockholm Tokyo Route

Strap in, Stockholm. Your non-stop ticket to Tokyo is here!

Happy Lunar New Year 2025 : Fireworks, Feasts, and Enough Red Decorations to Paint a Town

Ah, Lunar New Year! That magical time of year when firecrackers light up the skies, dumplings fill our bellies, and everyone collectively decides red is the fashion statement. Whether you’re a Lunar New Year veteran or just in it for the red envelopes (no shame), it’s all about celebrating family, fortune, and, let’s be honest, eating like there’s no tomorrow.

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The Year of the Snake: Smooth Moves Ahead

Welcome to the Year of the Snake, folks! Forget about the tigers & dragons as this is the year full of elegance, wisdom, and perhaps a dash of charm. Those born under the snake sign are known for their shrewd intuition, ability to effortlessly pick any lock, and powerful enigmatic charm.

It’s high time we all take a page out of the snake’s book and harness our inner serpent. You no longer have to worry about tackling the sink full of unwashed dishes or sweating over planning the next career move. Dishwashing can wait for a few hours. Here's a little trick– snakes shed their skin to facilitate growth, so perhaps you too can look for a reason to finally ditch those less than favorable habits (or that sweater you've held onto since 2015).

It’s Not Lunar New Year Without Food

Let’s cut to the chase—the real star of the Lunar New Year is the feast. Dumplings shaped like gold nuggets? Yes, please. Noodles so long they’d make Rapunzel jealous? Absolutely. Fish that symbolizes abundance but must be left unfinished to ensure good luck? Okay, now we’re just showing off.

And don’t forget the fruits. Tangerines and oranges mean prosperity, so stock up. Pears, however, are a no-go—unless you enjoy passive-aggressively signaling “separation” to your dinner guests.

The Year’s Biggest Red Carpet Event

Move over, Met Gala—Lunar New Year is the red-themed extravaganza of the year. Everything is decked out in crimson, from lanterns to envelopes filled with cold, hard cash. Pro tip: wear red to keep bad luck at bay and to look fabulous doing it.

Speaking of those little red envelopes, aka hóngbāo, they’re filled with money, good wishes, and maybe a hint of resentment when you realize adulthood means you’re now the one giving them out.

Fireworks and Fortune

No Lunar New Year is complete without fireworks—big, loud, and slightly terrifying. Legend has it they’re meant to scare off evil spirits, but let’s be real: they’re also an excuse to set off something sparkly while yelling “Happy New Year!” at the top of your lungs.

So, light those sparklers (safely!), because nothing says “new beginnings” like fireworks lighting up the night sky—or your neighbor's mild concern.

Clean It Up, Snake Style

Before the celebrations kick off, tradition says you’ve got to clean your house to sweep away any bad vibes. Think of it as a ritualistic Marie Kondo session but with extra urgency because you can’t touch a broom for the first few days of the New Year (bad luck, apparently).

Once you’re spotless, it’s time to decorate. Red banners, paper snakes, and maybe a few fairy lights to set the mood—because nothing says “good fortune” like your house glowing brighter than a firecracker.

Slither Into a Lucky New Year

The Lunar New Year is about family, traditions, and making sure your snack game is on point. Whether you’re enjoying a lion dance, counting your red envelope stash, or indulging in one too many dumplings, make the most of this year’s celebrations.

Happy Lunar New Year 2025

Here’s to a snake-tastic year full of wisdom, charm, and maybe even a little prosperity. Gōng xǐ fā cái!