Emojis in USA and Germany: Top 5!

When you look at the whole list of emojis, you realize how many emojis there are. Every country has its favorite emojis. Here’s a little insight into the most popular emojis in USA, France, Germany, Spain, worldwide and what they mean. Source: ExpressVPN infographic.

ð – face with tears of joy

This emoji is commonly used to express strong joy, laughter or cheerfulness. It is a symbol of humorous interactions and funny situations. It is commonly used in the US, Germany, France, and Spain to express joy and humor in text messages or social media.

– Face with laughter on the floor

Similar to the emoji, this emoji is also used to express hearty laughter. It symbolizes an even stronger reaction to something funny or comical. In the US, Germany, France, and Spain, this emoji is often used in humorous situations to convey intense laughter.

ð – Smiling face with smiling eyes

This emoji represents a gentle smile and contentment. It is used to express a friendly and positive mood. In all four countries, this emoji is often used to show gratitude, sympathy and joy.

ð – Kissing face with smiling eyes

The emoji symbolizes an affectionate gesture, such as a kiss or a loving look. It is widely used in the US, Germany, France and Spain to show affection, love and appreciation, whether in romantic or friendly contexts.

– Red Heart

Red heart is a universal symbol of love, affection and emotional connection. It is often used in the USA, Germany, France and Spain to express love, support and positive feelings, whether for family members, friends or partners.

𥰠– Smiling face with hearts around eyes

This emoji expresses strong affection, love and happiness. It is used in the four countries mentioned to express a deep emotional connection, joy and enthusiasm for someone or something.

Emojis at a glance: Worldwide

The most popular emojis in the world are not so different: Love, enthusiasm, sadness, everything is there.

Emoji	Meaning
	Deep emotion or happiness (Africa)
	Love, Affection (Africa, Europe, South America)
	Devilish laughter, mischievousness (Asia)
	Enjoy culinary diversity (Asia)
	Splendor, joy of something beautiful (Asia)
	Strong laughter, joy (North America)
	Loud laughter, exuberance (North America)
	Humorous or sarcastic dying of laughter
	Remarkable comedy, “it kills me”.
	Important information, “Something to note here”
	Location, marking (Asia, Europe)
	Purity, innocence (Middle East, Europe)

Top emojis in Africa

Thirty-seven of the fifty African countries use the joyful tears emoji . National flags are tweeted ten times more often than any other emoji.

Algeria, Somalia and Tunisia are among the countries that frequently tweet red hearts . Algerians enjoy the country’s landscape and the national soccer team.

Top emojis in Asia and Oceania

Japan has the most geographically relevant emojis. Two examples are Oni Demons and Dango Candy . Japanese iPhones introduced the emoji keyboard in the 1990s, adding several Japanese symbols to Unicode.

According to Unicode, this sparkly emoji , a “Japanese original,” is the most popular on Twitter in Japan. Sparkle is a Japanese term meaning “shiny novelty” in manga and animation. Sparkle is currently used humorously in the context of sarcastic or insulting remarks.

Top emojis in Europe

Flags are used in more tweets than any other emoji in 19 of the 51 European countries. During the period under consideration, Poland was the only country that tweeted the Ukrainian flag more often than its own, which coincided with Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.

Besides flags, Europeans use red hearts and joyful tears emojis . Despite their worldwide popularity, the latter might fall victim to natural selection. Younger generations use the skull or the coffin to express, “I’m dying of laughter.”

Top emojis in the Middle East and Central Asia

The rip purpose emoji is the focus of countless memes depicting the tweeter’s journey from good intentions to personal failure. The most popular emoji in Kuwait is the round rip purpose , but it is used by Kuwaitis to indicate places rather than as an “expressionless” emote.

Sending a red heart can be considered a “harassment offense” in Saudi Arabia, punishable by a fine of $26,656 and a two-year prison sentence. Saudi Arabia is the only country in the world where the “less provocative” white heart is the most popular local emoji.

Top emojis in North America

To express unbridled laughter and self-deprecation, users in North America use the emoji with tears of joy . On Facebook and Instagram, it is the most commonly used emoji.

North America responds with laughter, with ten countries using tears of joy and five using the more intense emoji with laughter on the ground . Nicaragua, the only country where neither tears nor a flag are the top emoji, uses the red heart most often.

Top emojis in South America

Guyana and Bolivia tweet the most national flag emojis in South America. Chile and Paraguay laugh at the most popular thing in the world (tears of joy) .

The red heart emoji is the most popular in South America and the second most popular worldwide. The red heart should be considered basic, according to Cosmo’s guide to twenty different heart emojis, and should only be used once when addressing a loved one.

Seokwoon Yoon: Autumn Winter Looks 23/34

Seokwoon Yoon always manages to combine a variety of textures and materials that are unusual and unexpected. His collections are often inspired by nature and incorporate organic shapes and movements. Yoon often translates his inspiration using the trompe l’oeil technique, creating a unique combination of art and ready-to-wear – Such is the case with his concept for F/W 2023 Seoul Fashion Week.

Metamorphosis and fashion, according to Seokwoon Yoon, definitely have some things in common. Just as metamorphosis involves progress, SEOKWOON YOON discovers beauty in the process. Once again, Yoon’s signature style can be found by means of oversized shapes, creative draping technique and unconventional twisted constructions.

Yoon’s inspiration for the new collection: the metamorphosis and its unfinished beauty

Runway: Highlights

Photo Credits: Seoul Fashion Week

Ajobyajo: Autumn Winter Looks 23/34

Ajo’s designs are all in the name of streetwear. The looks are cool and casual and influenced by numerous subcultures. The inspiration behind the designs: bringing together the many underground cultures of South Korea.

Also this season the typical signature of Ajo can be found on the catwalk. The clothes are adorned with social, rebellious messages. The models are distinguished by their very individual, extraordinary charm. Ajo’s inclusion is unique and admirable. Instead of resorting to the typical beauties of the fashion industry, drag queens, seniors and people with disabilities grace the catwalk, in line with the motto: What’s the beauty in non-mainstream, non-mainstream?

The basic idea of Ajobyajo: What is the beauty of non-mainstream, non-mainstream?

Runway: Highlights

Photo Credits: Seoul Fashion Week

Greedilous: Autumn Winter Looks 23/34

Loved by celebrities and influencers worldwide, fashion label Greedilous has made a name for itself within the last few years as one of South Korea’s most popular fashion brands. While founder Younhee Park’s designs continue to have an undeniable presence in Seoul, they have recently found their way into international showrooms in Hong Kong, France and the US. Always at the forefront: Park’s love for innovative graphics paired with intricate silhouettes. Not anyway, Park has come to be called the “Queen of Print.” Her collections are progressive and cosmopolitan with strong visual effects that can be found in print, shape, fabric and pattern design.

This season, the theme is “Focus on Yourself,” combining the free-spirited sensibility of the ’70s with glam and rock elements and casual and feminine athleisure details. In doing so, the Y2K trend is interpreted in a retro and futuristic way to express the greed for a culture of self-realization.

The theme of the fall / winter collection of Greedilous: Focus on yourself

Runway: Highlights

Photo Credits: Seoul Fashion Week

Travel to…

Germany

• Berlin
• Baltic Sea
• Lake Constance
• Hamburg 
• Mosel
• North Sea
• Rügen

Europe

• Corsica
• Croatia
• Denmark
• France
• Holland
• Italy
• Ireland
• Lake Garda
• Sardinia
• Spain
• Portugal
• South Tyrol
• Slovenia
• Turkey

USA & Canada

• Canada
• Caribbean
• Los Angeles
• Miami
• New York

Asia

• Tokyo
• Hong Kong

Tips and tricks

• Cheap holiday
• Glamping
• Holiday with animals
• Packing list
• Vacation with children

Camping

Little vacation?

South Korean TikToker

K-Pop is very popular among many young people around the world. The term is derived from English and means “Korean successful music”. The bands usually consist of several girls or boys. The popularity of K-Pop is also reflected on TikTok. Namely, the most successful accounts of South Korea there are K-pop groups like BTS and Blackpink. In addition to the two bands, comedian Jongmineyo is also very popular on the app. Check out their TikTok videos here.

Boy Band Group – BTS

BTS is a South Korean K-pop boy band made up of 7 men. With 38.5 million followers, they are South Korea’s most successful TikToker. The video with the most reach of 108.4 million clicks, is the one by band member “Jimin” dancing with the funny bubblehead filter on one of the band’s most popular songs. With this TikTok video, records were broken as the video became the most liked video in South Korea.

Girl Band Group: Blackpink

The successful girl band group“Blackpink” is one of the most successful TikTokers in South Korea. The group consists of the 4 girls: Jennie, Rosé, Lisa and Jisoo and has 23.7 million followers on TikTok. In their videos they show short clips and behind the scenes clips from their movies and cool dances.

Jongmineyo/ jongmin oppa

On the popular video clip app, Jongmin oppa is South Korea’s most successful creator with 13.7 million followers. There you can find him under the username“jongmineyo“. In his content, he makes funny comedy videos and shows life in South Korea. Here we have a compilation of his funniest videos for you.

The biggest TikToker from the United Kingdom

TikTok is also very popular in the UK. There you can find many great creators with the coolest and trendiest videos. The most successful British TikToker here is Holly H. Similar to many other creators, you can find dance challenges with her. Other successful TikTokers here are “Jamil Jamel Neffat” and “Rhia”.

Holly H: Dance Challenges & Painting

The most successful TikToker from the UK is Holly H with 16.3 million followers. The British influencer has a passion for dance. Holly knows all the trending dance challenges and sounds on the platform. Besides her cool dance performances, she also shows her other creative side with her paintings.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Rho7k3LSLyg

Neffati Brothers: Dance, Pranks & Comedy

Twins Jamel and Jamil Neffati are very popular on TikTok with their account“Neffati Brothers“. 13.6 million people now follow this account. The two brothers provide entertainment with their weirdest and funniest videos

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MjufHEd8djg

ASMR with Rhia

If you are looking for the most popular ASMR content creator, you will come across rhia.official in your search. The British TikToker has become famous for her lip-sync videos back in the day. On her site you can find many ASMR unboxing of children’s items and toys opens and cool tutorials in which she explains how she creates her TikTok videos.

Italy’s biggest TikToker

If Italy is your favourite travel destination, you’ve come to the right place. We’re bringing you the most successful TikTokers from the boot-shaped country. Here you can see Khaby Lame, Mattia Stanga and the pop singer Sangiovanni. The special thing here is that Italy has landed in the international TikTok charts with Khaby Lame.

Khaby Lame: World’s second largest TikToker from Italy

The Italian TikToker with Senegalese origin is the second most successful TikToker with over 90 million followers worldwide. The TikToker does not actually do that much. In his videos, you see people unnecessarily complicating tasks. Khaby shows in his videos how easy these tasks can be done. What’s so funny about it is his facial expressions. So if you’re into dry sarcasm, you’ve come to the right place.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mKSQQIGqK-4

Mattia Stanga: Italian Comedy Content

Mattia Stanga makes Italian content on his account and now has 1.4 million followers. In his videos he makes funny sketches in which he acts out different situations and roles.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J-i2_xQhDtw

With music to the favorite on TikTok – Sangiovanni

Italian pop singer Sangiovanni has a reach of 551.8K followers on TikTok. One of his most successful hits is the song “Malibu”. There are many cool dance challenges for this song on TikTok.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UxIf_z7eefY

Africa’s Biggest TikTok Stars

There are also many great TikTokers in the African continent. We show you the biggest and coolest creators from the different countries in Africa. Here you can see Mcshemcomedian and Whitney8, who have already reached a record of millions of followers with their comedy content. You can also see the funniest videos of the internet sensation Elsa Majimbo.

Kenya – Elsa Majimbo

Elsa Majimbo has been making waves on the internet with her comedy videos. With 894.3 K followers, the Kenyan is one of the most famous African content creators. In her videos, she performs monologues in which she laughingly eats her potato chips while wearing her tiny sunglasses.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oL0EWOCmZ1U

Nigeria – Mcshemcomedian

The most successful TikToker from Africa is Nigerian comedian Mc Shem Comedian with TikTok 4.4 million followers. In his skits, he plays Mama Shem, the mother of Shem. Check out a compilation of the funniest TikTok here.

South Africa – Witney8

Witney8 is the most successful TikToker in South Africa and has 2.1 million followers on TikTok. The South African makes many funny sketches in her videos but also many videos in which she shows South African dances. She also does a lot of lip-sync videos.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YRz6CgxDNlE

Hong Kong: Travel tip – Gambler’s paradise Macau

The island of Macau is also a special administrative region of China, over this stretch of land ruled until 1999 by Portugal. ruled until 1999 by Portugal. Colonial buildings alternate with Asian and modern buildings, creating a wonderful melange that always offers something new to the eye. Apart from the beautiful beaches, it is above all the huge casino complexes that attract the masses. Macau’s casino turnover now exceeds that of Las Vegas, and that’s saying something! The usual classic games such as Roulette and Blackjack are of course available, but it is above all the game of Baccarat that fascinates most – especially Asian – guests. Because this game allows the player to slip into the role of the bank and compete against others. This pleases not only the Asians!

Apart from that, the casino resorts offer affordable luxury and therefore attract countless tourists from the Hong Kong metropolis every weekend. There is a convenient ferry connection from place to place, so a side trip or weekend trip is no problem. Holidaymakers particularly enjoy visiting the Venetian Macau, which is clearly modelled on the resort of the same name in Las Vegas – only much larger in scale. There men and women can look forward can not only look forward to the big game, but also take a gondola ride through romantic canals.

Hong Kong skyline – view over the whole city

But back to Hong Kong, from where our journey started. This city welcomes its guests with a stunning skyline that is unparalleled in the world. In the business district called Central stands the famous Bank on China Tower, which forms a kind of landmark of the mega-city. Businesses are buzzing everywhere, with thousands of shops attracting shoppers with their diverse offerings. Shopping enthusiasts of all kinds will definitely get their money’s worth here, no matter what they are looking for – and what they never hoped to find.

It’s also worth taking a look at the crowds from above and visiting Victoria Peak, the city’s most popular lookout point. Several hiking trails lead up there, dotted with information boards and opportunities to rest. The less athletic can take the cable car, but on some days there are long lines. The Victoria Peak Garden invites you to have a picnic in the shade or just to rest. There is a fee for access to the panorama platform, but there are many wonderful viewing spots all around without an entrance fee.

Eat & Shop at the famous Temple Night Market

The Temple Street Night Market is a real magnet for tourists and locals. There you can buy all kinds of kitsch and everyday stuff, including toys and predictions of the future. However, most people are not here mainly for shopping, but rather for the food. At the market, everyone can put together their own menu and then enjoy dining in the open air. In addition, there are tasty fruit shakes that promise a vitamin boost and plenty of refreshment.

If you’re feeling more athletic, head to Kowloon Park, located in the Tsim Sha Tsui district. Here there is a beautiful, well-visited exercise trail, a swimming pool and various Tai Chi stations. Some park visitors also practice Kung Fu here, which is particularly exciting to watch. If you prefer natural surroundings, you can make yourself comfortable at the large aviary and enjoy the singing of the feathered occupants.

Hong Kong Park: Symphony of Lights

Hong Kong Park is completely different: it is filled with lush greenery and tall trees, which form a great contrast to the skyscrapers in the background. It’s worth coming here both during the day and at night, because there’s always something special about the atmosphere. The evening lights and the hustle and bustle of Victoria Harbour are a joy to watch! In addition, there is the big light spectacle that takes place every evening at half past seven, weather permitting. The so-called “Symphony of Lights” is accompanied by music and is simply enchanting. It is advisable to be there as early as possible to get a good seat.

After all these upsetting experiences, it may well be that an overpowering urge to go into the silence of nature sets in. Very close to Hong Kong is the so-called Dragon’s Back, which is wonderful to hike. The trail stretches for an easy 8.5 km and offers picturesque views of the deep blue South China Sea as well as the fabulous Tai Long Wan Bay. The destination of the hike is Big Wave Bay Beach, which leaves nothing to be desired by passionate sun worshippers. This breathtaking Asian city offers so much variety!

Tokyo through the ages

Today, more than 9.5 million people live in Tokyo, but if you look back only a few centuries, there was nothing but a small settlement with a fishing port called Edo. By the way: its roots even go back to the Stone Age! In the 15th century a castle was built near the settlement, but the present world metropolis only gained historical importance at the end of the 16th century, when Shogun Tokugawa Ieyasu took possession of the settlement and castle and a few years later in 1603 became the capital of his shogunate. As the seat of the Shogunate, the city of Edo underwent numerous changes and changes until Emperor Mitsuhito moved from Kyoto in the middle of the 19th century and renamed the city – now home to around 1 million inhabitants – the “imperial residence city in the east”, i.e. Tokyo. Tokyo is now a real cultural metropolis with numerous theatres, museums and parks, yet it has never forgotten its origins. Thus, in addition to the numerous modern blocks of buildings that tower up into the sky, historic buildings and temples are also lined up everywhere. It is an unusual and unique harmony between modernity and antiquity, so typical of Tokyo, and is also reflected in the two largest and most important sights of the city: the old Imperial Palace and the Tokyo Tower with a height of 333 meters.

Drone flight – sight seeing over the rooftops of Tokyo

Tokyo’s 23 boroughs and their special features

Adachi – impressed with large Senju bridge

A small district in the north of Tokyo. An important sight is the large Senju Bridge, which connects the individual areas within the district.

Arakawa – directly on the banks of the Arakawa River

This district is named after the river of the same name.

Bunkyō – Location of the World-class University of Tokyo

The educational district of Tokyo with numerous educational institutions and sights, including the University of Tokyo and the Tokyo Dome.

Chiyoda – from Imperial Palace to Sega World

The administrative district and headquarters of numerous large companies. Here you will find the imperial palace, the old castle Edo and many other historical buildings. Chiyoda also has the famous Akihabara entertainment district, the heart of the Japanese electronics trade and THE place to go for all fans of video games, anime and manga – the eight-story Sega World is just one example of many. Cosplay cafés and fan meetings are the order of the day here and the last celebrants often leave Akihabara only the next morning. Chiyoda is one of Tokyo’s least populated districts, but during the day there are 20 times as many workers and commuters here!

Chūō – extensive shopping in Ginza

One of Tokyo’s main business centres, including Ginza (THE shopping and entertainment district in Tokyo!) and the famous Tsukiji fish market.

Edogawa – birthplace of trend musician Kazuya Kamenashi

Named after the nearby river and hometown of Kazuya Kamenashi, member of the successful J-pop band KAT-TUN.

Itabashi – medical pioneer of Nihon University

Tokyo’s industrial district with business district in the north and four large universities, including the medical faculty of Nihon University

Katsushika – Residence of over 400,000 Japanese

This district was originally a union of several villages and small towns and now provides mainly housing for the population of Tokyo.

Kita – attractive for young & old: Asukayama Park

Although this is one of Tokyo’s smallest districts, it is also one of the most populous with 80% of the population. Next to Akabane railway station is Tokyo’s first public park, Asukayama Park.

Kōtō – world important exhibitions in the Tokyo Big Sight

The Tokyo Big Sight international exhibition hall and the Toyko Gate Bridge are located in this district, which was largely built by reclaiming new land.

Meguro – full of diplomats & embassies

A combination of a residential area and diplomatic quarter. It is the seat of numerous international embassies, especially of the West Asian countries and Africa, but also of the Honorary Consulate General of Iceland.

Minato – Tokyo Tower, Tokyo Midtown & Roppongi

In addition to a large number of educational institutions, some sights such as the Tokyo Tower and the Toyko Midtown high-rise complex with the highest skyscrapers in the city as well as the luxury district of Roppongi can be found here. Minato is also home to the tech companies Sony, Toshiba and NEC Corporation.

Nakano – divided into 18 individual districts

This district consists of 18 districts and is divided by several rivers. Nakano is connected to the subway network, but has no motorway of its own.

Nerima – over a hundred years of carousel

In this district there are mainly residential buildings and individual parks. In the Toshima-en amusement park you can marvel at the oldest still operated carousel in the world – it was put into operation for the first time in New York in 1910!

Ōta – Temple complex Homon-ji from the 13th century

This is the largest district in Tokyo and the third largest in terms of population. Here you will also find the famous Homon-ji, a Buddhist temple from the 13th century.

Setagaya – Luxury district with over 800,000 inhabitants

This is by far the most populous district of the city. Of Tokyo’s more than 9 million inhabitants, over 800,000 live here in Setagaya. It is one of the more expensive residential areas with about 60% pure residential development. The Carrott Tower with a height of 124 meters is also here.

Shibuya – Shopping & Fun in Shibuya

The Shibuya entertainment district is part of the district of the same name. The shopping street Senta-gai is one of the most popular shopping opportunities for Tokyo’s young population. The world famous statue of Shiba Inu Hachiko stands directly in front of Shibuya station. By the way: due to the mass of information technology companies Shibuya is often called Bit Valley!

Shinagawa – 6,000 hotel rooms near the station

A variety of universities and offices are located here in Shinagawa. However, due to the highest concentration of hotels and accommodation in Tokyo, the district attracts special attention with 6,000 rooms around Shinagawa station alone!

Shinjuku – bigger, nicer, better

Shinjuku station in Tokyo is one of the stations with the highest passenger volume in the world! But everything else in Shinjuku is bigger, better or more successful: Japan’s most important commercial and administrative centre is here, as is the largest shopping district in the whole of Japan, Japan’s largest and oldest entertainment district… Yayoi Kusama, one of the most important Japanese artists of the post-war period, had her own Yayoi Kusama Museum built here. By the way: Shinjuku maintains a partnership with the Dongcheng district in Beijing and the Mitte district in Berlin.

Suginami – Education in over 100 institutions

This district is mainly a residential area with only a few industrial settlements. There are 47 primary schools, 32 secondary schools, 21 secondary schools, 6 universities and 11 libraries!
Sumida – Sumo & Sumida Hokusai
Sumida is also mainly populated by people. There are several museums here, including the architectural Sumida Hokusai Museum and Ryogoku Kokugikan Sumo Hall.

Toshima – International in Tokyo

About 47% of this district consists of a residential area, in addition there are public places and some commercial enterprises. With a non-Japanese population of about 15,500 people, Toshima is one of Tokyo’s international districts. Here, too, there are several educational institutions, including the Tokyo Conservatory of Music.

Taitō – Sumidagawa-Hanabi, the biggest fireworks festival

In Taito there are the entertainment districts Asakusa and Ueno. The National Museum of Western Art, the Daimyo Clock Museum and the Ueno-Zoo are just some of the places to visit for culture and entertainment. Taito is also a popular place to celebrate Sumidagawa-Hanabi, Japan’s largest fireworks festival, and Sanja-Matsuri are both held here every year.

The travel guide for Tokyo

Holidays Extras Travel Guides explains the easiest and most convenient way to travel to Japan and what sights and attractions you should not miss on your first visit to Tokyo.

The Tokyo Metro – immortalized on a Nike sports shoe

Nike has drawn inspiration from the world’s major cities in creating the new Air Max series. The Tokyo Metro’s labyrinth-like rail network is reflected in the “Tokyo Maze” model and also gives its name to the new sports shoe.

Luxury life Tokyo – the most expensive apartments in the world

Living in Tokyo is a costly thing – especially the house prices are horrendous, one is not satisfied with the absolute minimum. In Ginza, for example, for a 13m² apartment you can expect about 800,00 Euro per month, for 50m² in Shibuya even between 2.500,00 Euro and 3.000,00 Euro per month and in Akihabara a monthly rent of 1.200,00 Euro for a 35m² apartment is a real bargain!

Between pressure to perform and late pension

That is perhaps why the people of Tokyo are particularly ambitious. Demands on academic and professional performance are high, which is particularly noticeable to the children time and again. You have to be diligent and work hard later so that your own children will have a better time. Only the factor of public school or private institute has a decisive influence on future careers. The pressure of expectations to which people here are exposed – both in their private lives and in society – means that everyone works late from morning to night, a 40-hour week plus 40 hours of overtime per month is the standard here and an after-work time after 11 p.m. is not uncommon. This is very harmful to Japanese health, and people are retiring very late – at 67 years of age – but on average the Japanese are getting much older than anywhere else in the world.

Creative outburst of opposites

In this context, it is understandable that the people in Tokyo sometimes seem a little chilly – like ants driving them from one place to another, always purposefully, always focused – like little wheels in a gear. There is no time for a nice smile or an apology and the necessary energy for it is better spent on more work. Nevertheless, the lifestyle in Tokyo in particular is rich in contrast, colourful, loud and shrill. There is nothing that does not exist – and what does not exist is probably invented here! This principle is reflected in music, art and, of course, fashion. From elegant women and men in kimonos to doll-like Lolitas with lace umbrellas to young men in flashy designer suits and colourful streetfashion – the main thing is to stand out. But of course there are also the normal suit and costume wearers as well as the students in their uniform uniforms – a surreal mix, especially if Spiderman and Sailor Moon are walking around the corner, closely followed by an adult in a Pikachu costume.

Impressions from Style ID: Tokyo Fashion Week A/W 18/19

A short impression of the last Fashion Week in Tokyo with designs for the autumn-winter collection of the year.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2gpXlVYYwVo

Designer Tokyo

Dice-K with its GlamHate brand is a prime example of a young Tokyo designer who once again redefines the term fashion for himself and takes up elements from GlamRock, vampirism and Lady Gaga’s stage outfits. His current collection VAMPYRE has been running for several weeks and is aimed specifically at Japan’s youth scene.

Tokyo – overwhelming and beautiful

All in all, Tokyo is definitely worth a trip – one should only plan enough time to take in all the different impressions. In seven days, not even a 100th of what the world metropolis has to offer! Fortunately, there is a sophisticated and 100% reliable rail network that transports you from one district to another in the shortest possible time. Only during rush hour it is hard to stand in the Tokyo Metro, so you shouldn’t have any fear of contact and claustrophobia. As an alternative to the subway’s local trains, there are also the Shinkansen, the famous Japanese high-speed trains with a network across Japan and an impressive top speed of up to 320km per hour. Aomori, Kyoto, Osaka, Yokohama and Sapporo and many other cities are only a stone’s throw away.

More about Japan: Travel tips for vacation or weekend

Tokyo is of course not the only beautiful city in Japan. The Land of the Rising Sun has several other exciting, colourful and fashionable cities to offer with unforgettable sights and events. Of course, we have already compiled more information about Japan for you:

• Amazing Osaka! Between Samurai & Shopping in Japan’s #2 Metropolis
• Coloured Kyoto – Sake, Shopping & Imperial Palace in the heart of Japan
• Glamhate: New collection Vampyre by Dice-K in Tokyo, Japan
• Kobe Travel Guide: Sightseeing, Fashion Week & Lifestyle in Kansai

Kyoto is the sister city of many world-famous cities, such as Prague, Paris, Florence, Zagreb, Kiev and Cologne. It also maintains an official partnership with Istanbul, Qingdao and Viantiane, among others. Read more about Japan’s metropolises Tokyo and Kobe.

The highlights of Kyoto in 4D

Kyoto is Japan’s number 1 destination for tourists from all over the world. The former capital offers so many different impressions and experiences, something new, exciting or unusual can be discovered in every corner of the city. From a bird’s eye view Kyoto is breathtakingly beautiful – Fushimi-Momomiya Castle and the paradisiacal mountain village Miyama are a real insider tip! Arashiyama has been a popular excursion destination since the 8th century and has lost nothing of its beauty to this day. The Zen Buddhist temple Tenryuji, for example, impresses with its beautiful gardens, designed by the famous Japanese Muso Soseki, who was the first abbot of the temple. At least as worth seeing is the small temple Senkoji. The river Hozu invites you to extensive sightseeing from a boat, while the Togetsukyo bridge may be familiar to some from historical Japanese films. Simply beautiful!

From Miyama to Senkoji – the enchanting Arashiyama in the West of Kyoto

Kyoto 794 – the imperial residence

As “Heian-kyo” Kyoto was the second permanent capital of the country since 794. At that time, Japan’s political power essentially originated there, which is why it also served as the imperial capital. When the emperor moved to Tokyo 400 kilometres away in 1185, Kyoto lost its position of power and the slow and gradual decline of the city began. 1568 came with the first Christian place of prayer, Namban-ji, then also the Christian influence to Kyoto. Only in 1580 did the reconstruction of the city begin and the first temples were built within the city – this had previously been strictly forbidden. Kyoto recovered and flourished and was one of the few cities in Japan to be spared from nuclear bombs and air strikes during the Second World War due to its cultural importance.

Kyoto Cultural Center – nearly 1,600 temples and more

Today Kyoto is the best preserved city in the country and is known as the cultural centre of Japan. Inside the city there are about 1,600 Buddhist temples and another 400 Shinto shrines, palaces and gardens. Many of these shrines and temples are part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site “Historic Kyoto” and are therefore particularly protected. This is one of the reasons why many of the country’s most famous buildings are located in Kyoto. The most important sights are in the east, north and west of the city – the majority of the temples are a bit remote in the north and on the surrounding mountain slopes. Every year Kyoto hosts the “Gozan no Okuribi” festival – large fires are lit on the mountain tops in the north whose flames simulate Japanese characters seen from a distance.

Ghostworld & Beacon – how to celebrate Gozan no Okuribi in Kyoto

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8tAuVU50pf4

Excessively polite in dialect

In Kyoto dialect is spoken, especially by the older inhabitants of the city. What distinguishes the Kyoto dialect from other language variants of Japanese is its strong historical influence, because here the old courtly culture is reflected in a form that cannot be found anywhere else but within the former capital. That is why the Kyoto dialect is also regarded as the higher variant of the generally regionally widespread Kansai dialect.

The most beautiful buildings in the 11 districts

The city of Kyoto is divided into 11 districts, all of which are worth a visit. – Because in every district there are beautiful temples and shrines and many other attractions and tourist destinations.

Fushimi – the best water of the country

The district of Fushimi is known for its particularly soft and clear water, which is of great importance for sake production. That’s why this is also where sake producer Gekkeikan is based. Also worth seeing are the Fushimi Inari Shrine, Fushimi Castle, Teradaya Inn, Gokogu Shrine and the ruins of Yodo Castle.

Kamigyo – from Imperial Palace to University Campus

The high-quality silk textile Nishijin-Ori has been produced in the district of Kamigyo for centuries. The old architecture of the Imperial Palace as well as various temples and shrines, including the temple of Shokoku-ji and the shrines of Kitano Tenman-gu and Seimei, meet modern structures such as the Imadegawa Campus of Doshisha University.

Kita – golden pavilion and oldest shrine in Japan

Kita belonged to the district of Kamikyo until 1955 and is rich in sights. Here is the Daitoku-ji and the Imamiya Shrine with its famous Yasurai Festival and Japan’s oldest shrine, the Kamo Shrine. There is also the golden pavilion Kinkaku-ji, the mountain Funaokayama and four large universities.

Higashiyama – National Museum Kyoto

The entertainment district of Gion is located in the heart of Higashiyama. There are numerous temples including Kiyomizu-dera, Tofuku-ji, Kennin-ji, Kodai-ji, Imakumano Kannon-ji and Sanjusangen-ji.

Minami – the southern city entrance

Until 1955 the municipality was still part of the Shimogyo district. Minami is located in the south of Kyoto, the only area of the city that is not bordered by mountains. Here is the former southern entrance to the city, Rajomon, as well as the famous temple complex To-Ji, where monk Kukai taught. By the way: Minami is home to the Zainichi, a population group with Korean roots.

Nakagyo – the tourist center of the city

The district of Nakagyo is located in the city centre of Kyoto and is therefore also the hub for administration, consumption, tourism and entertainment. Three of the city’s most famous festivals are held annually in Nakagyo: the Aoi-Matsuri, the Gion-Matsuri and the Jidai-Matsuri. Of particular note in Nakagyo are Nijo-jo Castle, Tokugawa’s former seat of the Shogunate, the Rokaku-do Temple, rebuilt after a devastating fire in 1877, and the Kyoto International Manga Museum.

Nishikyo – the Imperial Katsura Villa

The district of Nishikyo is of particular importance because of the imperial Katsura Villa, which was built over the Katsura river of the same name. The old moss temple Saiho-ji and the Yoshimine-dera are also located here.

An ode to Katsura Rikyu

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0gow111KwfM

Sakyo – rice fields and botanical garden

The district of Sakyo is very close to nature. It is the only district of Kyoto that has been able to preserve its rice fields and prevent new development areas and high-rise buildings due to urban planning restrictions. The wood industry has also been a constant in Sakyo for many years. Besides temples and shrines like Ginkaku-ji, Nanzen-ji, Kamo Shrine, Heian-Jingu Shrine, Kurama-dera, Kifune-jinja, Sanzen-ji and Manshuin Temple there is the Imperial Villa Shugakuin and the botanical garden of Kyoto. The Kyoto International Conference Center, in which the famous Kyoto Protocol to the climate protection agreement was adopted, and the Kyoto University for Art and Design are also located here.

Shimogyo – Shopping, Travel, Rivers

Shimogyo is home to the large Kyoto railway station and the city’s largest shopping district at the corner of Shijo Street and Kawaramachi Street. Three rivers flow through the district and the famous Kyoto Tower rises far beyond the city.
Ukyo – Bridge to the Moon

The temple complex Ninna-ji, the Zen temple Ryoan-ji, Daikaku-ji as well as Koryu-ji and the bridge with the mystical name “Bridge to the Moon”, Togetsu-kyo are located in this district. The Kyoto Prefecture University is also located here. By the way: Ukyo is also seen as the centre of the Japanese film industry and is home to one of the two film studios Toeis.

With Kenny Lee in Arashiyama: from the bamboo grove to the “bridge to the moon”

Yamashina – the oldest imperial tomb of Kyoto

Yamashina station is only one stop from Kyoto station in Shimogyo. As a former imperial residence, a number of emperors have of course also been buried in Kyoto. In fact, the oldest imperial tomb in the city, the tomb of Emperor Tenji, together with that of General Sakanoue no Tamuramaro and other important historical figures are located in the Yamashina district. The famous Oishi Shrine is also located here.

The Top 10 City Attractions

1. Fushimi Inari Shrine
2. The golden pavilion Kinkaku-ji
3. Kiyomizu-dera
4. Eikan-do
5. Sanjuzangdo Temple
6. Shoren-in Temple
7. Emperor Shugakuin Villa
8. Imperial Katsura Villa
9. Ninna-ji Temple
10. Sanzen-in Temple

With Shan Axe in Kyoto – 11 recommendations in less than 3 minutes!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Puov0rSlyuk

University City Kyoto – Studying at the highest level

Due to its status as a university city, Kyoto is home to many young people, but in fact the students are not only city residents and regional residents, they come from all parts of the country to study at one of the approximately 40 universities and colleges in the city. Since the opening of the first Shinkansen line in 1964, Kyoto can also be reached by high-speed trains, which makes commuting much more pleasant. The main station in Shimogyo was completely rebuilt and modernised in 1997, which makes it more attractive to the young population, but in the eyes of many it is too much in contrast to the traditional Kyoto architectural style.

Japan’s Top 5 Universities & Colleges

According to a foreign ranking of Japanese universities and colleges from April 2018, the national universities of Tokyo, also known as Todai, and Kyoto, aka Kyodai, ranked first for the first time together; until now, the national university of the capital was considered Japan’s undefeated top university. In the 2018 global ranking, however, Todai is still one step ahead; with 46th place on the world list of universities, it is 28 places ahead of Kyodai (74th). By the way: the universities of Oxford, Cambrige and Stanford occupy places 1-3 in the worldwide ranking.

• 1st Tokyo University & Kyoto University
• 3rd University of Tohoku
• 4th Tokyo Institute for Technology
• 5th Kyushu University

Catch your dream! Studying at Kyoto University

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cGWkIQr54uk

The three pillars of Kyoto – Tourism, Tradition & Modernity

1. tourism

Its long-lasting architecture and the many historical sites of Kyoto make the city Japan’s most popular tourist destination. In fact, tourism is the city’s main source of income and the tourist infrastructure is well developed here.

2. traditional handicraft

There are also many small businesses and family businesses dedicated to traditional Japanese crafts, for example Kyoto is famous for its silk manufacture and the production of kimonos, which are often worn here for festive occasions, but also in everyday life. A very special dyeing technique, called Kyo-Yuzen, was passed down from the 17th century and was developed many years ago by Yuzen Miyazaki in Kyoto. Outside Kyoto there are few practitioners, most of them in Kanazawa – but even within the city, Kyo-Yuzen is only used by a few.

3. electronics

The third pillar, besides sake production of course, is electronics. The headquarters of renowned companies such as Nintendo, Murata Eletronics, OMRON, Wacoal, Kyocera and many others are located in Kyoto. Nevertheless, many of the working population have to commute daily to Osaka, 40 km away, since the jobs in the city centre are no longer sufficient.

Eating in Kyoto – a culinary feast for all the senses

Kyoto is also famous for its excellent cuisine. The stylish, often simple dishes focus on mainly vegetable ingredients such as pickled vegetables, called tsukemono. Many vegetables, which are seasonally found in the city’s specialities, come from the immediate vicinity of Kyoto and are known for being somewhat smaller in growth, but also significantly more intense in taste than in the rest of Japan, thus giving Kyoto cuisine a very special touch. By the way: a popular souvenir from Kyoto is the candy Yatsuhashi.
Most poular: Nama Yatsuhashi

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L5kMMweVJxQ

Kaiseki Ryori – luxury dinner in several courses

Kaiseki Ryori is a multi-course and often expensive menu whose origins lie in the traditional tea ceremony. In the course of time it enjoyed great popularity at the Imperial Court and became increasingly pompous and extravagant. A variant of Kaiseki Ryori is Kyo Kaiseki, which is primarily based on seasonal vegetables from the Kyoto region.
Shojin Ryori – pleasurable modesty

The Shojin Ryori comes from the abstinent monks in Buddhist temples. The simple dishes consist exclusively of vegetarian ingredients, but are still rich and filling. A popular example of Shoji Ryori is a vegetable broth with tofu, called yudofu.

Obanzai Ryori – Food like Mum

The Obanzai Ryori is originally traditional cooking at home. Typically it consists of several small dishes that are not very complex to prepare. Restaurants that specialize in Kyoto cuisine often create a homely atmosphere to create a sense of home and togetherness among their guests.

Kawayuka – Food above the water

Kawayuka or Kawadoko refers to food in nature. But not somewhere, but on wooden platforms floating above rivers! These platforms are built by restaurants all over Kyoto during the summer season as a kind of terrace over rivers and streams, offering a refreshing alternative to stuffy restaurants and oppressive heat. The culinary district of Pontocho in the city centre is particularly suitable due to its proximity to the Kamogawa River, but also the two mountain villages Kibune and Takao in the mountains north of Kyoto invite you to Kawadoko from May to September – an absolute recommendation!

Streetfood in Kyoto: Yakitori, Okonomiyaki & Dango

More about Japan: Travel tips for vacation or weekend

Not enough of Japan yet? The Land of the Rising Sun has several other exciting, colourful and fashionable cities to offer with unforgettable sights and events. Of course, we have already compiled more information about Japan for you:

• Tokyo Experience: Travel tips & Field reports from Adachi to Taitō
• GlamHate: New Collection Vampyre by Dice-K in Tokyo, Japan
• Kobe Travel Guide: Sightseeing, Fashion Week & Lifestyle in Kansai
• Amazing Osaka! Between Samurai & Shopping in Japan’s #2 Metropolis